Don't get me wrong: I love glitter. There's something magical about a craft project that sparkles, but after interviewing more than two hundred churches about kids in worship, what shapes children's ministry, and how congregations grow, I've discovered that the brightest ideas don't come from glitter and glue. The churches that are thriving are shining … Continue reading Less Glitter, More Gospel

One of the odd things about my ministry is that jobs or calls, as we call them in church lingo, usually find me. Apparently, my résumé has spent most of its life collecting dust while God has preferred the "I'll have them call you" method. Somewhere along the way, the phone rings, someone says, "Have … Continue reading It All Starts with a Phone Call

One of the best weeks of the year is Vacation Bible School (VBS). What's not to love? There are songs that get stuck in your head for weeks, energetic games that somehow involve pool noodles, and enough glitter to remain in the church carpet until Jesus returns. Since his retirement, one of our snack leaders … Continue reading VBS: More Than A Kid’s Program

I am halfway through my sabbatical, and it is all going so fast! I have enjoyed writing on the Gospel text and connecting it to some of my favorite cartoons: Scooby Doo, The Jetsons, Bluey, and now, Casper the Friendly Ghost. Enjoy! Let’s be honest—Casper the Friendly Ghost is probably not the first image that comes … Continue reading Casper the Friendly Ghost and the Holy Spirit

If Jesus and Bluey met in an episode.... I am increasingly convinced that if the Gospel of John were written today, it would include at least one animated episode starring a blue Australian cattle dog. Specifically, the moment in John 14 when Jesus looks at his worried disciples and says, “Do not let your hearts … Continue reading If Jesus and Bluey Met in an Episode

In the fall of 2025, my role transitioned from Pastor of Family Ministry—a position I have served in for many years—to Pastor of Faith Formation. As I prepare to return from sabbatical and step fully into this new role, it is important to begin with a clear framework and strategic direction. It's all feet in! … Continue reading Day 3: Faith Formation

I was a weird kid—in the best way. Every Sunday after church, I’d rush home and play church with my stuffed animals. I directed an imaginary choir, wrote my own sermons about loving people (remember, this was the South in the 1970s), and served Holy Communion to the dog using bread and Kool-Aid. Reverent and … Continue reading Sabbatical Starts March 22

Today I wrote a letter to the families at Bethlehem Lutheran Church - Twin Cities, who attend the Minneapolis campus. While we can't meet the needs of every family, I think we do a good job on providing opportunities for kids in worship. Below is what I wrote: What Makes Bethlehem Special for Kids – … Continue reading What Makes My Church Special to Kids