Adventures in Children’s Ministry By Pastor Karl Bastian Chapter 1: An Empty Office, But a Full Heart Nadia sat in her new office, staring at the small desk in front of her. The desk, like the room itself, was bare—just an open Bible and a few scattered pens laid upon it. The shelves were empty, save for a layer of dust that clung stubbornly to their corners. The whiteboard mounted to the wall was as spotless as the bulletin board next to it, which, for now, only held two simple drawings her children had made during Sunday school a few...

If you or your church do a Trunk or Treat, I’ve got the BEST Trunk or Treat TRUNK EVER! I got to see an early screening of this movie, and it’s FANTASTIC! Here is my official quote/endorsement: And, if you’d like a SNEAK PEEK, here is the trailer: This movie really is worthy of your support and taking the ENTIRE FAMILY, FRIENDS and a RANDOM STRANGER to go see! Check out all the COOL TOOLS for hosting a Best Christmas Pageant EVER Trunk or Treat TRUNK! – Karl PS: Never hosted a Trunk or Treat? Download my Trunk or Treat...

  In children’s ministry, communication with parents is not just helpful—it’s critical. Parents are the primary spiritual influencers in their child’s life, and your role as a children’s ministry leader is to support, encourage, and resource them. Effective communication helps bridge the gap between church and home, allowing parents to continue faith conversations, reinforce lessons, and participate in their child’s spiritual growth. When parents are in the loop, it helps foster a partnership between the ministry and the family, creating a foundation for lasting spiritual development. However, keeping parents informed and engaged is not always easy, especially in today’s busy...

I asked AI to write me a Birthday Greeting. It asked me a few questions about my hobbies and interests, and then in seconds, it wrote me this poem. Not bad! What do you think? Happy Birthday, Pastor Karl, from your AI Friend! On this special day, let’s celebrate with delight, A pastor so creative, who shines Jesus’ light. With Sara by your side, the love of your life, And Luke, your son, who brings you such pride. “I am your Father,” you say with a grin, Just like Darth Vader, though your side always wins! Star Wars is your...

I asked AI via ChatGPT to list the Top 20 Challenges and Topics of Children’s Ministry Leaders and then to access how well Kidology.org addresses those. This was the result… including this image: (I did no editing and for the most part it’s pretty accurate! I simply added a few links to resources as they were described, but there is MUCH more on the site than even what is listed here! If you are looking for something not listed here, we probably have it after 30 years of building the site, just write and ask!) Certainly! As of my knowledge...

In children’s ministry, crises are a guarantee. Whether it’s a sudden volunteer shortage, a last-minute program change, or an unexpected conflict, these moments can either derail your efforts or become steppingstones for growth. How you respond can make all the difference. In Pastor Karl’s seventh installment of his Ministry Management Video series, The Seven L’s of Crisis Management, he delves into seven powerful principles designed to help you not only manage crises but turn them into opportunities that strengthen your ministry. This isn’t about merely surviving the chaos—it’s about thriving in it. Karl will guide you through essential strategies that...