In this premiere episode of Ministry Conversations Podcast, host Clay Jacobson sits down with Jennifer Howington, Childhood Discipleship Specialist, and Kurt Krodle, Student Discipleship Specialist, to explore the heart behind NextGen Ministry in the local church. Together, they define what "NextGen" truly means—far beyond age-based programs—and why a holistic discipleship strategy for kids and students is essential for long-term spiritual formation. From aligning church ministries with a unified discipleship vision, to equipping parents as primary faith influencers, this conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for pastors, leaders, and volunteers who want to invest intentionally in the next generation. Whether you're launching a NextGen model or seeking to strengthen what’s already in place, this episode lays a strong foundation for ministry that lasts beyond Sunday. Welcome to the Ministry Conversations podcast, where we sit down with subject matter experts from Texas Baptists to answer any and all questions you have about building an effective ministry. Our hope is that each episode serves as a guide to provide you with the practical answers you need to fulfill the Great Commission, being fueled by the Great Commandment. Have a question you want answered? Email news@texasbaptists.org to submit your questions.Thanks for joining the conversation!
In this kickoff episode of the Ministry Conversations Podcast, Clay Jacobson hosts Jennifer Howington and Kurt Krodle to explore the purpose, philosophy, and practice of NextGen Ministry. They discuss how children’s and student ministries can work in sync, what it means to disciple the next generation holistically, and how churches of all sizes can create intentional strategies that stick.
What NextGen Ministry actually means—and what it doesn't
The importance of alignment between kids, student, and adult ministries
Discipleship as a long-term, relationship-centered journey
Equipping parents and caregivers to be primary spiritual influencers
Overcoming silos in church staff roles and ministry teams
Encouragement for leaders in small and rural churches
Practical first steps for churches wanting to build or strengthen a NextGen model
“It’s not about programs—it’s about people and a pathway of discipleship.” – Jennifer Howington
“When kids and students grow up in a church where every age group is aligned, the long-term spiritual impact is exponential.” – Kurt Krodle
Texas Baptists NextGen Ministry
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