Interview with Brodie Swanson- Part 1

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In the first part of this interview, Mel talks with Brodie Swanson, Associate Pastor of Children’s and Family Ministry at Elmbrook Church. They discuss some of the issues that shape children’s and family ministry today.

When asked if children’s ministry has changed in the 13 years he has worked in children’s ministry, Brodie says, “what we’re dealing with in different age groupings is different today than it was a few years ago…the issues of middle school and high school of ten years ago are in fifth grade now…issues of sexuality, of different situations in the home, of different things they’re dealing with in their classrooms and in their neighborhoods…”

Anxiety, the lack of “roots” in families, and fear are issues that come up time and again in dealing with children. Labels such as “ADD”, “gifted”, etc., whether positive or negative, are given at a very early age and often become core to a child’s identity. Instead of “I have ADD,” says Swanson, you hear kids say “I am ADD” and [kids] start to view their lives through that lense.

Another issue facing children at an unprecedented rate is the destruction of families and the collapse of homes. God intends for the family to be the foundation of society…but when the family falls apart, the issues that come into a child’s life impact them for decades. Knowing the issues that face kids directly form the guidelines for parenting and dealing with kids on a church-wide level.

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 at Elmbrook, 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.

For more information on Family and Children’s ministry at Elmbrook Church, visit elmbrook.org/children.