What do kids really need from the church—and are we giving it to them?

In this episode, Jerry Welch talks with Gretchen Mehan about what it means to truly care well for kids in ministry. From creating environments of safety and belonging to consistently speaking truth into young lives, they unpack the foundational needs every child carries. This conversation is a reminder that kids don’t just need fun—they need stability, connection, and truth they can trust. And when the church shows up consistently, those seeds can shape a lifetime of faith.

What does it really look like to “care well” for preschoolers—and the families raising them?

In this episode, Jerry Welch sits down with Emily Barber to unpack the real, everyday needs of preschool ministry. From safety and emotional support to discipleship and consistency, they explore how caring for young children goes far beyond the classroom. It’s about partnering with parents, creating a culture of grace, and building a church community that truly functions like family. Because when we care well for parents, we care well for their kids—and that impact lasts for eternity.

Different stories. One calling. One mission.

In this special fifth-week episode, the whole Deep Roots Leadership team comes together for a more personal conversation. From salvation stories to God’s call into ministry, each team member shares a bit of their story and reflects on the joy of serving together on church staff.

Along the way, the team talks about how the Lord uses different backgrounds, personalities, and experiences to accomplish His purposes in the church. It’s a fun and encouraging look at the people serving across preschool, kids, students, and adult ministries.