I know, the debate over Harry Potter is essentially over. However the debate comes to haunt those of us who lead children’s and family ministry because the movies are still being released. This debate has a fairly polemical nature to it. The two sides (pro and con) routinely write books and fire away in articles and blogs. But I’m less concerned about the polemic nature of the actual debate. My brother John is.

I came across an excellent article reflecting data and conclusions about the study of the impact of e-learning and learner’s views on the physical places where they learn. From my understanding, this study was intended to help organizations plan better learning spaces (buildings, centers, libraries, colleges, schools, etc…) but the information revealed some key components of digital learners that are helpful for children’s and family leaders.

Everyone loves a good story. But the truth of the matter is that stories actually hold a special place in the brain. Research from Sung-Il Kim in 1999 (and later reflected upon by cognitive psychologist Daniel Willingham) showed that the brain treats information told in story form in a different manner. There are a few general characteristics of story that are pertinent for our conversation as children’s and family ministry leaders.

For many of us, we are in the season of preparation for next year’s crops. Take time to till the soil, level the field, and grind out the weeds.

I think the field of children's and family ministry is an incredible place to work and devote my time and energy. But there is one critical area where the field needs to step up: theology.

Kevin DeYoung, author and pastor, took time to speak to our pastoral staff today about the Emergent Church and an Evangelical and Orthodox response.

So I went to see the new Hannah Montana movie for my daughter’s third birthday and here’s what I learned.

If the world of information is growing exponentially, what are you doing to keep up in your leadership, teaching, and learning?

Can you share the story God is telling and the role you are to play in only 50 words? Try it.