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In the second half of this interview, Mel continues his discussion with Brodie Swanson, Pastor of Children’s and Family Ministry at Elmbrook Church. Brodie discusses the profound impact of media on kids, and the way in which parents need to intentionally turn off the television and engage with their children.
On the spiritual life of kids, Swanson says that when you look at the elementary generation, they’re ready and excited to hear the voice of God. It goes beyond hearing a Bible story and trying to get a moral nugget out of it. In children’s ministry programs at Elmbrook, he and his staff have built in an element of response, where kids can write what they want God to know or somehow personally respond to the teaching. The things they have posted on the walls are profound, he says.
Brodie goes on to discuss some of the ways parents can grow their children’s individuality and include God in some of the everyday discussions and experiences they’re already a part of. He also mentions some practices and viewpoints that are not helpful to growing children’s faith.
Did you miss part 1? Listen to it here!
About Brodie Swanson
Brodie Swanson joined the Elmbrook Staff in 2006 and is the Associate Pastor of Children’s and Family Ministry. Brodie and his wife, Heather, moved from Rockford, Illinois, where they had been living and ministering since 1999. During their time here, they have welcomed their first child, Annika, into the world and are busy learning how to be good parents. Heather works in the local school systems and has a deep love for children and public education. Brodie has been a Children’s Pastor for over 10 years and has a passion for helping kids develop a strong, biblical curiosity and find out who God is and how He wants them to be. Brodie has an undergraduate degree from Cedarville University in elementary education and two years of teaching experience. He also graduated from Bethel Seminary in 2007 with a Masters degree in Children’s and Family Ministry. In his spare time he loves to sit with a cold Mountain Dew, play some hoops, or take to the golf course on a sunny afternoon.