Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder
The Kids Ministry Calling Podcast is designed to inspire and equip kids ministry leaders in every season of their journey! Join us as we dive into heartfelt discussions, practical tips, and uplifting stories that remind you of the incredible calling God has placed on your life. Tune in to be reminded of your purpose, share in the joys and struggles of ministry, and find renewed strength in your calling. Together, we can remember to have joy in our calling!
Kids Ministry Calling with Jana Magruder
55. Bringing Joy Back to Kids Ministry with Kelley Pekarek
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In this episode of the Kids Ministry Calling Podcast, we sit down with longtime kids ministry leader Kelly Pekarek to talk about something every ministry leader needs more of....joy.
With more than 21 years of experience in kids ministry, Kelly shares practical and encouraging insights on how leaders can cultivate fun, build meaningful relationships with kids and families, and create a ministry culture where volunteers feel excited to serve.
From creative volunteer recruitment to simple tools that help busy families stay engaged in discipleship, this conversation is packed with ideas you can start using right away. Kelly reminds us that while kids ministry can feel busy and demanding, it should also be life-giving, relational, and full of joy.
In This Episode, We Talk About:
- Why joy and fun are essential to a healthy kids ministry culture
- How relational ministry changes the way kids experience church
- Creative and practical ways to recruit and retain volunteers
- Why families today are busier than ever—and how the church can support them
- Simple strategies for helping parents disciple their kids at home
- How small ideas can create big moments of connection and community
Kelly also shares some practical and creative ideas that help bring energy and connection to kids ministry:
- Bible Bingo – a fun and interactive way to help kids engage with Scripture
- Summer Scoreboards – tracking participation, Scripture memory, and engagement throughout the summer
- Community-building activities that help kids and volunteers feel connected
- Fresh ways to make ministry environments welcoming, energetic, and memorable
Kelly’s wisdom and experience will leave you encouraged, inspired, and reminded that joy is one of the most powerful tools we have in ministry.
If this episode encouraged you, consider sharing it with another kids ministry leader who could use some fresh ideas and encouragement in their calling.
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