Worship Whys https://worship-whys.podbean.com Discover why your church is called to welcome kids in worship. Host Dawn Rundman interviews a church leader who gives insights on topics from ushers to pipe organs to why worship is good for babies' brains. A quick listen for ministry leaders, worship planners, and anyone who wants to support the presence, gifts, and leadership of children in worship.

]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:13:09 -0500 https://podbean.com/?v=5.5 en Copyright 2025 All rights reserved. Religion & Spirituality:Christianity 1440 episodic Augsburg Fortress Augsburg Fortress No false https://feed.podbean.com/worship-whys/feed.xml https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/21029464/WorshipWhys_logo1400x1400.jpg Worship Whys https://worship-whys.podbean.com 144 144 Child-friendly church spaces Child-friendly church spaces https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/child-friendly-church-spaces/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/child-friendly-church-spaces/#comments Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:13:09 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/583375aa-bfa6-381b-b6bc-e9b6431d213f Why it’s worth making some simple adjustments to make your church spaces feel more inviting to families.

The very space that is impressive to adults may not feel welcoming to children. In this episode, host Dawn Rundman gets some innovative ideas from Julie Marie Seibert as they discuss why it’s important to look at church spaces through a child’s eyes. Julie Marie brings her background as an educator who creates inclusive museum experiences to this conversation.

Have thoughts on this topic or other ways to connect with kids at church? Dawn would love to hear from you. You can e-mail her at WorshipWhys @AugsburgFortress.org.

We’ll be back again soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> Why it’s worth making some simple adjustments to make your church
spaces feel more inviting to families.


The very space that is impressive to adults may not feel welcoming to children.
In this episode, host Dawn Rundman gets some innovative ideas from Julie
Marie Seibert as they discuss why it’s important to look at church spaces through
a child’s eyes. Julie Marie brings her background as an educator who creates
inclusive museum experiences to this conversation.


Have thoughts on this topic or other ways to connect with kids at church?
Dawn would love to hear from you. You can e-mail her at WorshipWhys
@AugsburgFortress.org.

We’ll be back again soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 918 24 full Making memories, building faith Making memories, building faith https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/making-memories-building-faith/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/making-memories-building-faith/#comments Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:31:41 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/149cccc8-19e2-3599-a9c8-f8255747e76e Sounding out words in the bulletin. Becoming an acolyte. Holding the baby in the Christmas pageant.

WHY participating in such classic church rituals, activities, and holiday traditions creates memories and builds faith in children as they come of age. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman asks her own young adult daughter, Svea, to recall her own childhood church experiences from the not-too-distant past. Svea has thoughts about how worship leaders can help kids take pride in participating and find their role in the congregation, with a special shout-out to those cherished “church grandmas.”

Thanks for listening to this episode of Worship Whys! Dawn will be back again soon with another episode and more ideas about how your church can welcome children and their families.

]]> Sounding out words in the bulletin. Becoming an acolyte. Holding the baby in the Christmas
pageant.


WHY participating in such classic church rituals, activities, and holiday traditions creates memories and builds faith in children as they come of age. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman asks her own young adult daughter, Svea, to recall her own
childhood church experiences from the not-too-distant past. Svea has thoughts about how worship leaders can help kids take pride in participating and find their role in the congregation, with a special shout-out to those cherished “church grandmas.”


Thanks for listening to this episode of Worship Whys! Dawn will be back again soon with another episode and more ideas about how your church can welcome children and their families.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 806 23 full Faith autobiography—from youth! Faith autobiography—from youth! https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/faith-autobiography%e2%80%94from-youth/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/faith-autobiography%e2%80%94from-youth/#comments Tue, 21 Apr 2026 18:38:44 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/a2ae9e60-6ac3-3986-8cf9-d0b57358a200 WHY asking young adults who’ve been raised in a faith community can be eye-opening for worship leaders. In this episode, Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman asks a college senior—who happens to be her son, Paavo—to reflect on his faith autobiography. Hearing his thoughts on how church membership and activities shaped him provided insight—and some surprises.

Have you requested the faith autobiography of children who came of age in your church? Or asked kids in your own family to share their faith story? Dawn would love to hear your experience. You can email her at

WorshipWhys@AugsburgFortress.org.

We’ll be back again soon!

]]> WHY asking young adults who’ve been raised in a faith community can be eye-opening for
worship leaders. In this episode, Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman asks a college
senior—who happens to be her son, Paavo—to reflect on his faith autobiography. Hearing his thoughts on how church membership and activities shaped him provided insight—and some surprises.


Have you requested the faith autobiography of children who came of age in your church? Or asked kids in your own family to share their faith story? Dawn would love to hear your experience. You can email her at

WorshipWhys@AugsburgFortress.org.


We’ll be back again soon!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1074 22 full NURSING AND BABYWEARING NURSING AND BABYWEARING https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/nursing-and-babywearing/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/nursing-and-babywearing/#comments Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:03:47 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/8708af13-14ef-3cb5-9ad7-8082b71fd512 Welcoming and supporting new moms and their babies WHY your church should be proactive in advocating for the needs of nursing mothers, both those on church staff and those in your congregation. Youth and Family Ministry leader Melissa Ramshead talks to Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman about her real life experiences as the working mother of three young daughters. She shares her ideas about important ways to create a supportive space for the new moms in your church. Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with your colleagues. That will help us grow our podcast and share more ideas about welcoming children in worship. We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> Welcoming and supporting new moms and their babies
WHY your church should be proactive in advocating for the needs of nursing
mothers, both those on church staff and those in your congregation. Youth and
Family Ministry leader Melissa Ramshead talks to Worship Whys host Dawn
Rundman about her real life experiences as the working mother of three young
daughters. She shares her ideas about important ways to create a supportive
space for the new moms in your church.
Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with your colleagues.
That will help us grow our podcast and share more ideas about welcoming
children in worship. We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of
Worship Whys!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 827 21 full Making Vacation Bible School memorable Making Vacation Bible School memorable https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/making-vacation-bible-school-memorable/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/making-vacation-bible-school-memorable/#comments Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:55:22 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/0743b295-4dcd-3f24-9451-bec2b3b2506d Why it takes planning to create an exciting VBS experience that will deepen faith in kids at your church.

Veteran VBS creator Arlene Flancher shares her tried-and-true strategies with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Hear Arlene’s thoughts on which VBS activities have high impact and pack a punch, versus preparations that are time- consuming but ultimately not worth the trouble.

Ministry leaders, learn more about VBS options here:

https://www.augsburgfortress.org/promos/operation-restoration/

Thanks again for joining us for Worship Whys. Please like, follow, share and subscribe to our podcast to help us grow our podcast reach.

 

]]> Why it takes planning to create an exciting VBS experience that will deepen faith
in kids at your church.


Veteran VBS creator Arlene Flancher shares her tried-and-true strategies with
Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Hear Arlene’s thoughts on which VBS
activities have high impact and pack a punch, versus preparations that are time-
consuming but ultimately not worth the trouble.


Ministry leaders, learn more about VBS options here:

https://www.augsburgfortress.org/promos/operation-restoration/

Thanks again for joining us for Worship Whys. Please like, follow, share and
subscribe to our podcast to help us grow our podcast reach.

 

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1072 20 full CHILD CENTERED WORSHIP CHILD CENTERED WORSHIP https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/child-centered-worship/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/child-centered-worship/#comments Tue, 17 Mar 2026 09:32:14 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/221514d0-5c14-352d-bee0-8032a7d5a19a The New Testament’s lessons on welcoming children to worship WHY re-reading the Gospel stories of interactions between Jesus and children gives guidance for creating worship that truly centers children. Host Dawn Rundman talks to Biblical scholar, professor and author (and mom!) Amy Lindeman Allen about what it means when you take a “childist” (as opposed to an “adultist”) approach to your work.

Amy’s book, “The Gifts They Bring: How Children in the Gospels Can Shape Inclusive Ministry,” reviews the lessons to be learned from the distinct and varied gifts that Jesus recognized in His connections with children and youth. It’s available wherever books are sold. Thanks for listening. Please share our podcast with your community and colleagues of other worship leaders. We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> The New Testament’s lessons on welcoming children to worship
WHY re-reading the Gospel stories of interactions between Jesus and
children gives guidance for creating worship that truly centers children.
Host Dawn Rundman talks to Biblical scholar, professor and author (and
mom!) Amy Lindeman Allen about what it means when you take a
“childist” (as opposed to an “adultist”) approach to your work.


Amy’s book, “The Gifts They Bring: How Children in the Gospels Can Shape
Inclusive Ministry,” reviews the lessons to be learned from the distinct and
varied gifts that Jesus recognized in His connections with children and
youth. It’s available wherever books are sold.
Thanks for listening. Please share our podcast with your community and
colleagues of other worship leaders.
We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1116 19 full Creating relatable children’s sermons — from the Dollar Store! Creating relatable children’s sermons — from the Dollar Store! https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/creating-relatable-children-s-sermons-%e2%80%94-from-the-dollar-store/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/creating-relatable-children-s-sermons-%e2%80%94-from-the-dollar-store/#comments Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:08:30 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/32a188d5-5288-3072-97b3-abc9a4c06c51 Why using familiar items in a children’s message lets them know that they are welcome at the table.

Today’s Worship Whys episode features the Rev. John Stevens, who shares his innovative sermon ideas with host Dawn Rundman. His ideas can provide a springboard for creativity for worship leaders.

To watch his YouTube segments utilizing purchases from the Dollar Store—and common household items from the junk drawer, garage, and kitchen — go to https://dskidsermons.com/

Thanks again for joining us for Worship Whys. Please like, follow, share, and Subscribe to our podcast to help us grow our podcast reach.

]]> Why using familiar items in a children’s message lets them know that they are
welcome at the table.


Today’s Worship Whys episode features the Rev. John Stevens, who shares his
innovative sermon ideas with host Dawn Rundman. His ideas can provide a
springboard for creativity for worship leaders.


To watch his YouTube segments utilizing purchases from the Dollar Store—and
common household items from the junk drawer, garage, and kitchen — go to
https://dskidsermons.com/


Thanks again for joining us for Worship Whys. Please like, follow, share, and
Subscribe to our podcast to help us grow our podcast reach.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1070 18 full DESIGNING TRAUMA-INFORMED WORSHIP EXPERIENCES DESIGNING TRAUMA-INFORMED WORSHIP EXPERIENCES https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/designing-trauma-informed-worship-experiences/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/designing-trauma-informed-worship-experiences/#comments Wed, 28 Jan 2026 17:23:02 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/1a369793-6063-32c4-b284-e6ab2924ccd7 https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/138924. You can learn more about Rev. Carla’s work at www.carlachristopher.org We appreciate all of our Worship Whys listeners! We humbly request that you like, follow, share and subscribe to our podcast to help us share the word of the information we’re sharing with worship leaders like you!]]> https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/138924. You can learn more about Rev. Carla’s work at www.carlachristopher.org We appreciate all of our Worship Whys listeners! We humbly request that you like, follow, share and subscribe to our podcast to help us share the word of the information we’re sharing with worship leaders like you!]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1769 17 full Why making art makes worship memorable for children Why making art makes worship memorable for children https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-making-art-makes-worship-memorable-for-children/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-making-art-makes-worship-memorable-for-children/#comments Tue, 20 Jan 2026 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/7c4e0e62-3d3d-3449-a508-c069ae2479fa Today’s Worship Whys episode will give ideas—and confidence—to worship leaders who are not trained artists. In a conversation with host Dawn Rundman, Rev. Mary Button, a pastor with an extensive background in visual arts, shares her creative ideas that draw in the whole congregation. Find out WHY you need to round up hula hoops to keep the children in your church joyfully engaged! To get a look at Rev. Button’s brilliant liturgical art, check out her website: www.marybutton.com . Thanks for listening to Worship Whys and please like, follow, share and subscribe to our podcast. We’ll talk to you again soon!

]]> Today’s Worship Whys episode will give ideas—and confidence—to worship
leaders who are not trained artists. In a conversation with host Dawn Rundman,
Rev. Mary Button, a pastor with an extensive background in visual arts, shares
her creative ideas that draw in the whole congregation. Find out WHY you need
to round up hula hoops to keep the children in your church joyfully engaged!
To get a look at Rev. Button’s brilliant liturgical art, check out her website:
www.marybutton.com . Thanks for listening to Worship Whys and please like,
follow, share and subscribe to our podcast. We’ll talk to you again soon!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 913 16 full A recipe for using food to build faith A recipe for using food to build faith https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/a-recipe-for-using-food-to-build-faith/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/a-recipe-for-using-food-to-build-faith/#comments Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:48:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/f9e9f609-7c67-362a-bf2a-9d853b64ab8c WHY worship leaders can find food— snacks, treats, and meals—as an exciting way to teach Bible stories to kids. Youth ministry leader and food writer Tera Michelson shares her vision of gathering at the table for some “donut evangelism” with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Tera’s got ideas on how to make fun and memorable food and faith connections that are that sure to nourish the children in your congregation, in both their tummies and their souls.

Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with your colleagues. That will help us grow our podcast and share more ideas about welcoming children in worship. We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of Worship Whys!

]]> WHY worship leaders can find food— snacks, treats, and meals—as an exciting
way to teach Bible stories to kids. Youth ministry leader and food writer Tera
Michelson shares her vision of gathering at the table for some “donut evangelism”
with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Tera’s got ideas on how to make fun
and memorable food and faith connections that are that sure to nourish the
children in your congregation, in both their tummies and their souls.


Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast with your colleagues.
That will help us grow our podcast and share more ideas about welcoming
children in worship. We’ll be back in your feed soon with another episode of
Worship Whys!

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1078 15 full Want to guide kids in your church to see themselves as disciples? Here’s how. Want to guide kids in your church to see themselves as disciples? Here’s how. https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/want-to-guide-kids-in-your-church-to-see-themselves-as-disciples-here-s-how/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/want-to-guide-kids-in-your-church-to-see-themselves-as-disciples-here-s-how/#comments Tue, 16 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/b5637c02-b9c4-380d-8dab-7332a93ddfbd storyboardingchurch.com for more of her ideas on kids and worship.   ]]> storyboardingchurch.com for more of her ideas on kids and worship.   ]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1132 14 full WHY invite children to be part of the Sunday morning corps of ushers at your church? WHY invite children to be part of the Sunday morning corps of ushers at your church? https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-invite-children-to-be-part-of-the-sunday-morning-corps-of-ushers-at-your-church/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-invite-children-to-be-part-of-the-sunday-morning-corps-of-ushers-at-your-church/#comments Tue, 09 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/cf4b4d7d-fdb1-3806-af4d-54963c9215d1 Lauren Morse-Wendt, deacon at Edina Community Lutheran Church, recruits children to be ushers at her congregation and sees first-hand how they invigorate worship.

Talking to Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman, Lauren explains her tried-and-true methods on incorporating children into this leadership role. With practical guidance on getting started, she explains why being included in this role makes a difference to children, their families, and people in the pews.

Has this podcast inspired you to consider adding children to your usher team? Dawn would be eager to hear from you on that, or your other thoughts about this podcast. Connect with Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> Lauren Morse-Wendt, deacon at Edina Community Lutheran Church, recruits children to be ushers at her congregation and sees first-hand how they invigorate worship.

Talking to Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman, Lauren explains her tried-and-true methods on incorporating children into this leadership role. With practical guidance on getting started, she explains why being included in this role makes a difference to children, their families, and people in the pews.

Has this podcast inspired you to consider adding children to your usher team? Dawn would be eager to hear from you on that, or your other thoughts about this podcast. Connect with Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1089 13 full Inviting children (and their families) to take part in funerals Inviting children (and their families) to take part in funerals https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/inviting-children-and-their-families-to-take-part-in-funerals/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/inviting-children-and-their-families-to-take-part-in-funerals/#comments Tue, 18 Nov 2025 19:59:24 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/40d6c152-1866-3644-8a4b-a392c985fdf8 WHY including children in funerals can teach them how life after death is woven into our faith story. While worship leaders are justifiably concerned about how to talk to children about death, knowing how to prepare children to attend funerals can help them learn how to grieve. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman has a moving and deeply personal conversation with Rev. Jess Felici. They share ideas about ways to bring children into funeral rituals while respecting their emotions and comforting them with the hope of Jesus.  

 

Here are links to books recommended as resources in this episode: “All About Grief” by Lora-Ellen McKinney: https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/product/9781506491271/All-About-Grief and “The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst:https://patricekarst.com/the-invisible-string-origin-story/

 

How have you helped children in your church manage their feelings about death?  Dawn would love to hear YOUR story! E-mail her at WorshipWhys@AugsburgFortress.org

 

Please like, follow, subscribe, and share Worship Whys. And we’ll be back soon with another podcast about ways to welcome children in worship. 

]]> WHY including children in funerals can teach them how life after death is woven into our faith story. While worship leaders are justifiably concerned about how to talk to children about death, knowing how to prepare children to attend funerals can help them learn how to grieve. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman has a moving and deeply personal conversation with Rev. Jess Felici. They share ideas about ways to bring children into funeral rituals while respecting their emotions and comforting them with the hope of Jesus.  

 

Here are links to books recommended as resources in this episode: “All About Grief” by Lora-Ellen McKinney: https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/product/9781506491271/All-About-Grief and “The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst:https://patricekarst.com/the-invisible-string-origin-story/

 

How have you helped children in your church manage their feelings about death?  Dawn would love to hear YOUR story! E-mail her at WorshipWhys@AugsburgFortress.org

 

Please like, follow, subscribe, and share Worship Whys. And we’ll be back soon with another podcast about ways to welcome children in worship. 

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 946 12 full Storytelling is a uniquely powerful way to connect children to God—and it can begin even before they are born! Storytelling is a uniquely powerful way to connect children to God—and it can begin even before they are born! https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/storytelling-is-a-uniquely-powerful-way-to-connect-children-to-god%e2%80%94and-it-can-begin-even-before-they-are-born/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/storytelling-is-a-uniquely-powerful-way-to-connect-children-to-god%e2%80%94and-it-can-begin-even-before-they-are-born/#comments Wed, 12 Nov 2025 18:34:07 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/34043f95-288d-3fa1-8fb7-af15fb813f7e In this episode, Dawn explores WHY storytelling can be built into into your every encounter with children. Biblical stories and stories about Jesus equip and accompany children as they step out of the worship space and into their young lives. Pastor (and expert storyteller) Priscilla Paris-Austin shares her expertise and some inspiring ideas with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. It’s a conversation sure to help worship leaders sharpen their own storytelling skills. 

 

For more about Pastor Priscilla and her Sacred Storytime podcast, (https://blog.augsburgfortress.org/a-peek-into-the-studio-of-sacred-storytime-with-pastor-priscilla) Listen to Pastor Priscilla's podcast (https://www.podbean.com/site/search/index?v=sacred+storytime+with+pastor+priscilla)

]]> In this episode, Dawn explores WHY storytelling can be built into into your every encounter with children. Biblical stories and stories about Jesus equip and accompany children as they step out of the worship space and into their young lives. Pastor (and expert storyteller) Priscilla Paris-Austin shares her expertise and some inspiring ideas with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. It’s a conversation sure to help worship leaders sharpen their own storytelling skills. 

 

For more about Pastor Priscilla and her Sacred Storytime podcast, (https://blog.augsburgfortress.org/a-peek-into-the-studio-of-sacred-storytime-with-pastor-priscilla) Listen to Pastor Priscilla's podcast (https://www.podbean.com/site/search/index?v=sacred+storytime+with+pastor+priscilla)

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 964 11 full Reimagining and expanding the idea of children as church leaders Reimagining and expanding the idea of children as church leaders https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/reimagining-and-expanding-the-idea-of-children-as-church-leaders/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/reimagining-and-expanding-the-idea-of-children-as-church-leaders/#comments Sun, 09 Nov 2025 15:13:18 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/e27526bf-5ea0-3090-835e-847d97de96b0 WHY consider bringing children at your church into leadership roles every week, not just on Youth Sunday.  Deacon Jennifer Baker-Trinity chats with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman offering ideas about how to more fully incorporate children into every aspect of worship, the jobs borth large and small, sacred and simple. Of course, giving children more responsibility has risks as well as rewards. Learn how to roll with it when the unexpected happens with the child leaders you’ve empowered! 

 

Find the Thanksgiving for Baptism with Children that Deacon Jennifer mentioned on page 60 in the Pew Edition of All Creation Sings.

 

We appreciate you and the community of leader/listeners we are building through this podcast! Please like and share Worship Whys with your circle and check in with your thoughts at Worshipwhys@augsburgfortess.org

]]> WHY consider bringing children at your church into leadership roles every week, not just on Youth Sunday.  Deacon Jennifer Baker-Trinity chats with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman offering ideas about how to more fully incorporate children into every aspect of worship, the jobs borth large and small, sacred and simple. Of course, giving children more responsibility has risks as well as rewards. Learn how to roll with it when the unexpected happens with the child leaders you’ve empowered! 

 

Find the Thanksgiving for Baptism with Children that Deacon Jennifer mentioned on page 60 in the Pew Edition of All Creation Sings.

 

We appreciate you and the community of leader/listeners we are building through this podcast! Please like and share Worship Whys with your circle and check in with your thoughts at Worshipwhys@augsburgfortess.org

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1024 10 full WHY we should modify worship practices to include our littlest kids—but without simplifying so much the older children feel left out or bored. WHY we should modify worship practices to include our littlest kids—but without simplifying so much the older children feel left out or bored. https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-we-should-modify-worship-practices-to-include-our-littlest-kids%e2%80%94but-without-simplifying-so-much-the-older-children-feel-left-out-or-bored/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/why-we-should-modify-worship-practices-to-include-our-littlest-kids%e2%80%94but-without-simplifying-so-much-the-older-children-feel-left-out-or-bored/#comments Wed, 29 Oct 2025 14:40:28 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/e178ede8-5479-3ae5-806a-bd8ffd6b67b0 It’s a challenge! Worship planners know that one size DOES NOT fit all  when welcoming children in worship.

Creating developmentally appropriate activities for all young learners can be done, but it requires preparation and flexibility. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares some insight and ideas on how to build worship practices that span the different age groups—and appeal to all of them.

 

Have you created worship practices to appeal to children of different ages in your church? Email Dawn about your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortres.org. And you can read more about Dawn's insights on kids in worship in Chapter 9 of her book "Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith."

]]> It’s a challenge! Worship planners know that one size DOES NOT fit all  when welcoming children in worship.

Creating developmentally appropriate activities for all young learners can be done, but it requires preparation and flexibility. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares some insight and ideas on how to build worship practices that span the different age groups—and appeal to all of them.

 

Have you created worship practices to appeal to children of different ages in your church? Email Dawn about your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortres.org. And you can read more about Dawn's insights on kids in worship in Chapter 9 of her book "Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith."

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 861 9 full Drumming up joy for children through worship with a beat Drumming up joy for children through worship with a beat https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/drumming-up-joy-for-children-through-worship-with-a-beat/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/drumming-up-joy-for-children-through-worship-with-a-beat/#comments Tue, 21 Oct 2025 14:26:01 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/d217dbdc-9e72-3905-9a88-f4adcdaf33e7 WHY do drums engage children—and the whole congregation—with the power of percussion?

 

Rev. Lowell Michelson, senior pastor at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in West Chester, Ohio and a lifelong musician, brought his drums along as he joined host Dawn Rundman. Think drums involve loud banging that doesn’t belong in church? Then this episode of Worship Whys will open your eyes—and ears. Learn how music and rhythm instruments can touch children like nothing elsePastor Lowell has some great hands-on ideas that he uses with children in his services and are easy to implement at other churches. His suggestions are anything but humdrum and sure to have your congregation marching to a different beat.

How have you used music at your church? Dawn would like to hear the experiences of worship leaders! Email her with your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> WHY do drums engage children—and the whole congregation—with the power of percussion?

 

Rev. Lowell Michelson, senior pastor at Lord of Life Lutheran Church in West Chester, Ohio and a lifelong musician, brought his drums along as he joined host Dawn Rundman. Think drums involve loud banging that doesn’t belong in church? Then this episode of Worship Whys will open your eyes—and ears. Learn how music and rhythm instruments can touch children like nothing elsePastor Lowell has some great hands-on ideas that he uses with children in his services and are easy to implement at other churches. His suggestions are anything but humdrum and sure to have your congregation marching to a different beat.

How have you used music at your church? Dawn would like to hear the experiences of worship leaders! Email her with your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1129 8 full Welcoming the wisdom of all ages—including the youngest—in worship Welcoming the wisdom of all ages—including the youngest—in worship https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/welcoming-the-wisdom-of-all-ages%e2%80%94including-the-youngest%e2%80%94in-worship/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/welcoming-the-wisdom-of-all-ages%e2%80%94including-the-youngest%e2%80%94in-worship/#comments Tue, 14 Oct 2025 14:31:20 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/ff2376bb-2e4c-347b-9bad-5d0a75e4b20d WHY people of all ages worshipping together enriches the experience for everyone!

“Intergenerational worship” creates more benefits for all than “multi-generational worship” does. What’s the difference? How can worship leaders create an environment that does more than acknowledge a diversity of age in their congregations? Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares research-based lessons that she learned at an international conference on intergenerational worship, and her observations from a week at an intergenerational camp.

Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast! Your support helps us connect with more worship leaders like you. Let Dawn know what you want to hear about next at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org

]]> WHY people of all ages worshipping together enriches the experience for everyone!

“Intergenerational worship” creates more benefits for all than “multi-generational worship” does. What’s the difference? How can worship leaders create an environment that does more than acknowledge a diversity of age in their congregations? Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares research-based lessons that she learned at an international conference on intergenerational worship, and her observations from a week at an intergenerational camp.

Please like, follow, subscribe, and share this podcast! Your support helps us connect with more worship leaders like you. Let Dawn know what you want to hear about next at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1061 7 full Happy campers at your church: using the outdoors to grow faith in children Happy campers at your church: using the outdoors to grow faith in children https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/happy-campers-at-your-church-using-the-outdoors-to-grow-faith-in-children/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/happy-campers-at-your-church-using-the-outdoors-to-grow-faith-in-children/#comments Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:41:12 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/7b2c18c7-f6c8-360c-bf6d-d7c2a3aacdf8 WHY is church camp such a pivotal faith event for so many kids, and how can worship leaders expand that special summer experience to create excitement year ‘round?

Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman talks with Rozella Haydée White, who shares experiences from her decades of youth ministry experience at a variety of camp environments. Rozella offers feedback for worship leaders about how to incorporate camp and the love of God’s outdoors into services and ministry.

Rozella’s book, Love Big: The Power of Revolutionary Relationships to Heal the World, is published by Fortress Press and available here: https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/product/24389/Love-Big-The-Power-of-Revolutionary-Relationships-to-Heal-the-World

Send your camp stories to Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org

]]> WHY is church camp such a pivotal faith event for so many kids, and how can worship leaders expand that special summer experience to create excitement year ‘round?

Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman talks with Rozella Haydée White, who shares experiences from her decades of youth ministry experience at a variety of camp environments. Rozella offers feedback for worship leaders about how to incorporate camp and the love of God’s outdoors into services and ministry.

Rozella’s book, Love Big: The Power of Revolutionary Relationships to Heal the World, is published by Fortress Press and available here: https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/product/24389/Love-Big-The-Power-of-Revolutionary-Relationships-to-Heal-the-World

Send your camp stories to Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 909 6 full The power of poetry in children’s worship at your church The power of poetry in children’s worship at your church https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/the-power-of-poetry-in-children-s-worship-at-your-church/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/the-power-of-poetry-in-children-s-worship-at-your-church/#comments Tue, 30 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/e143a1f7-dcb1-3655-81cb-39513ae571b8 WHY incorporate poetry into your children’s ministry?

Children crave rhyme, rhythm and wordplay as their language develops and poetry, like music, will amuse and amaze them. Published poet and multi-disciplinary artist Joe Davis shares powerful ideas about how to incorporate poetry in worship with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Joe’s practical advice will deepen your understanding of why poetry is a thrilling addition to your worship plans! Learn more about Joe at his website, www.JoeDavisPoetry.com and follow him on social media @JoeDavisPoetry. 

Explore Joe’s poetry books published by Augsburg Fortress at https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/search?ss=Joe+Davis+poetry&c=0

Connect with Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org. She would love input from worship leaders who are inspired by this podcast.

]]> WHY incorporate poetry into your children’s ministry?

Children crave rhyme, rhythm and wordplay as their language develops and poetry, like music, will amuse and amaze them. Published poet and multi-disciplinary artist Joe Davis shares powerful ideas about how to incorporate poetry in worship with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman. Joe’s practical advice will deepen your understanding of why poetry is a thrilling addition to your worship plans! Learn more about Joe at his website, www.JoeDavisPoetry.com and follow him on social media @JoeDavisPoetry. 

Explore Joe’s poetry books published by Augsburg Fortress at https://www.augsburgfortress.org/store/search?ss=Joe+Davis+poetry&c=0

Connect with Dawn at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org. She would love input from worship leaders who are inspired by this podcast.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 902 5 full No need to ‘pipe down’ at church! Your pipe organ can fire up faith in youth ministry No need to ‘pipe down’ at church! Your pipe organ can fire up faith in youth ministry https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/no-need-to-pipe-down-at-church-your-pipe-organ-can-fire-up-faith-in-youth-ministry/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/no-need-to-pipe-down-at-church-your-pipe-organ-can-fire-up-faith-in-youth-ministry/#comments Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:08:33 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/0596c5d8-be82-35da-a916-398a3623326e WHY use the pipe organ in your church to more deeply engage children in worship?

 

Children are curious about the magnificent instrument in your church—and sometimes a little frightened by it! David Sims, longtime church organist and current Music Development Manager at Augsburg Fortress, pulls out all the stops in a conversation with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman.

David offers practical pointers on how to introduce children to the pipe organ so they get more out of the music it produces.

Dawn Rundman would love to hear from listeners who have thoughts on pipe organs or other topics discussed in these podcasts. Dawn’s e mail is WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

Dawn’s book, Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith, is available wherever books are sold

]]> WHY use the pipe organ in your church to more deeply engage children in worship?

 

Children are curious about the magnificent instrument in your church—and sometimes a little frightened by it! David Sims, longtime church organist and current Music Development Manager at Augsburg Fortress, pulls out all the stops in a conversation with Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman.

David offers practical pointers on how to introduce children to the pipe organ so they get more out of the music it produces.

Dawn Rundman would love to hear from listeners who have thoughts on pipe organs or other topics discussed in these podcasts. Dawn’s e mail is WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

Dawn’s book, Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith, is available wherever books are sold

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 1105 4 full Baby brains: Why being plastic is a good thing Baby brains: Why being plastic is a good thing https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/baby-brains-why-being-plastic-is-a-good-thing/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/baby-brains-why-being-plastic-is-a-good-thing/#comments Tue, 16 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/2ff1da66-4723-39ab-bcfb-063693834226 WHY to think about the brains of your youngest congregation members as you plan worship.

 

Neuroscientists have made dramatic breakthroughs in mapping babies’ brains and are learning how the brain’s plasticity in the first few years of life shapes lifelong development. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman’s fascination with early brain formation led her to take a deep dive into the subject in her doctoral studies and

influenced her to write her acclaimed book, Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith.

Dawn shares innovative information about babies’ brains and offers strategies to inspire worship leaders to take simple steps to engage the youngest children (and their families) as they begin faithful lives.

What successful ways have you connected with babies in your church? Email Dawn with your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

Dawns book is available at: https://www.wearesparkhouse.org/store/product/23763/Little-Steps-Big-Faith-How-the-Science-of-Early-Childhood-Development-Can-Help-You-Grow-Your-Child-Faith

]]> WHY to think about the brains of your youngest congregation members as you plan worship.

 

Neuroscientists have made dramatic breakthroughs in mapping babies’ brains and are learning how the brain’s plasticity in the first few years of life shapes lifelong development. Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman’s fascination with early brain formation led her to take a deep dive into the subject in her doctoral studies and

influenced her to write her acclaimed book, Little Steps, Big Faith: How the Science of Early Childhood Development Can Help You Grow Your Child's Faith.

Dawn shares innovative information about babies’ brains and offers strategies to inspire worship leaders to take simple steps to engage the youngest children (and their families) as they begin faithful lives.

What successful ways have you connected with babies in your church? Email Dawn with your experiences at WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

Dawns book is available at: https://www.wearesparkhouse.org/store/product/23763/Little-Steps-Big-Faith-How-the-Science-of-Early-Childhood-Development-Can-Help-You-Grow-Your-Child-Faith

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 560 3 full Examine your own faith story to help children in your church find theirs Examine your own faith story to help children in your church find theirs https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/examine-your-own-faith-story-to-help-children-in-your-church-find-theirs/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/examine-your-own-faith-story-to-help-children-in-your-church-find-theirs/#comments Tue, 09 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0500 worship-whys.podbean.com/5ad9e643-c2ac-3c1b-bd1e-46c22138aeee WHY does reflecting on your own faith story give you insight into children at your church today?

 

What are your childhood church experiences that were meaningful, even profound? Reflecting on your own personal faith journey can give you insight into what is impacting the children you connect with.

Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares her faith autobiography as an example. A preacher’s kid growing up in the Midwest, Dawn was moved by her home church and prized her warm relationships with older congregation members. Listen to why Dawn encourages worship leaders to contemplate their own faith formation as a way to discern what might be meaningful to children they interact with.

What memories did you generate by pondering your own faith autobiography? Dawn would be interested in hearing from listeners who were encouraged by this podcast to think about their journey. Drop her an e mail: WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> WHY does reflecting on your own faith story give you insight into children at your church today?

 

What are your childhood church experiences that were meaningful, even profound? Reflecting on your own personal faith journey can give you insight into what is impacting the children you connect with.

Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares her faith autobiography as an example. A preacher’s kid growing up in the Midwest, Dawn was moved by her home church and prized her warm relationships with older congregation members. Listen to why Dawn encourages worship leaders to contemplate their own faith formation as a way to discern what might be meaningful to children they interact with.

What memories did you generate by pondering your own faith autobiography? Dawn would be interested in hearing from listeners who were encouraged by this podcast to think about their journey. Drop her an e mail: WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> Augsburg Fortress false No 633 2 full Survey says! What children’s ministry leaders told researchers about what’s working with kids in worship Survey says! What children’s ministry leaders told researchers about what’s working with kids in worship https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/survey-says-what-children-s-ministry-leaders-told-researchers-about-what-s-working-with-kids-in-worship/ https://worship-whys.podbean.com/e/survey-says-what-children-s-ministry-leaders-told-researchers-about-what-s-working-with-kids-in-worship/#comments Wed, 03 Sep 2025 13:18:12 -0500 rundmand.podbean.com/54d373e9-d463-3db1-b390-0d3f82614d3a WHY isn’t there more information on how churches are doing when it comes to welcoming children in worship?

 

Get ready to hear some good—and not-so-good—news from research that reveals just that. Augsburg Fortress has completed a groundbreaking national research project with children’s ministry leaders in the ELCA. In this podcast, Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares findings that look at the current state of kids in worship across the country. The research allowed worship leaders to speak frankly about their trials and triumphs and to identify obstacles that interfere with their best efforts.

What this research reveals offers practical lessons to help worship leaders tailor their ministry to better serve kids and families.

 

Researchers asked participants to assess how well they are doing with including children in worship. How would you respond to that question? Dawn invites you to e-mail her with your story: WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> WHY isn’t there more information on how churches are doing when it comes to welcoming children in worship?

 

Get ready to hear some good—and not-so-good—news from research that reveals just that. Augsburg Fortress has completed a groundbreaking national research project with children’s ministry leaders in the ELCA. In this podcast, Worship Whys host Dawn Rundman shares findings that look at the current state of kids in worship across the country. The research allowed worship leaders to speak frankly about their trials and triumphs and to identify obstacles that interfere with their best efforts.

What this research reveals offers practical lessons to help worship leaders tailor their ministry to better serve kids and families.

 

Researchers asked participants to assess how well they are doing with including children in worship. How would you respond to that question? Dawn invites you to e-mail her with your story: WorshipWhys@augsburgfortress.org.

]]> rundmand false No 818 1 full