Thanks to Andrew VanDerLinden from Organized KidsMin for this shared article – this contains great principles for keeping kids attention and communicating well during a large group lesson with children.
Do you want to be a better communicator? Do you want to help your volunteers be more captivating when they share in kid’s church?
Communication is an art and must be developed. These 10 tips will help you and your team better connect with your kids in your kids church.
10 simple things you can do to be a better communicator in your kid’s ministry.
- Use stories not just facts.
Jesus was a master storyteller. We should follow his example. Kids love stories. Kids love to hear about times we made mistakes. Just make sure to bring it back to God’s truth.
- Change the volume and inflection in your tone.
Don’t speak in a monotone voice. Use inflection and change the pitch. Speak faster and slower. Get louder and softer. Whisper and shout. Don’t forget to smile. When you smile it changes your tone and helps you connect better with the kids.
- During the Bible Story use your Bible.
There are a lot of great tools to help us teach the Bible to kids. Make sure when you’re talking about the Bible you have a Bible in your hand. Make sure the kids know that what you are sharing is from the Bible.
- Don’t use a script or notes.
Take some time and internalize what you want to say. Make as much eye contact as possible. Notice I didn’t say memorize what you want to say. Feel confident enough in the material to talk about it. The kids don’t know what is written on the notes. Study and then share, the rest is up to God.
- Apply what you’reteaching to your life.
You can’t teach something you don’t know and are not practicing in your life. Kids see right through that. When you prepare to teach kids, evaluate how the truth is lived out in your life and look for ways to apply it. You might even be able to share some stories from your effort to apply the spiritual truth.
- Avoid using the baby talk voice.
Also known as the presenter’s tone. Don’t talk down to kids.
- Be full of energy.
Get out of your comfort zone. A great rule, if you’re comfortable you’re probably not energetic enough. If you’re not energetic the kids won’t be either. Raise the level of your energy.
- Use technology to set the tone.
We have so many tools at our disposal. Look for music and videos to help illustrate the theme. Always ask, what could I do to make this lesson better?
- Use relevant and up to date examples.
Know what’s going on in child culture and look for opportunities to weave it into your talks. Watch what kids are watching, know what kids are into. Choose to stay relevant and up to date.
- When speaking to a group of varied ages aim for the oldest in the room.
Target the older boy in your group. The rest will come along. If you capture the older boy he will set the example for the others to follow. If your target audience is younger the older boy will spoil it for the rest of the group.
Do you want to be a better communicator? Good communication takes effort and practice. Coach your team and share these ideas with them.
As a team, ask what can we do to get better? Come up with your own list of tips for great communication in kids church. When the communicator gets better everything gets better.
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David Whitfield |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Assistant St. Louis Regional Coordinator
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part of what I do is being able to plant the seeds to grow the Kingdom. You never know how much impact a simple conversation can have. It’s really motivating when I can see the impact that I’ve made, even if it’s just one person.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Calm, Spontaneous, Considerate
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Hearing or listening to songs that I used to love as a child. Even hearing a song from a video game that I used to play, always takes me back to those days.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I’m very interested in language learning. Actively studying Japanese and interested in adding more to that list, once I have a little more time on my hands.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Bible. I know, I know, very generic. But learning to fall in love with the Bible has been one of the most life changing things for me. It’s a guide, a foundation, and my favorite, God’s love letter to us.
What’s a favorite quote?
“You can’t fix something, if you don’t know how it’s supposed to work” – My High-School Teacher
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Rosemary Owusu |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I am a coordinator of Crossroads Kids Club in Ghana, helping oversee the successful completion of specialized tasks- thus, the Kingdom business. And also drawing children closer to God. Children need Jesus!
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part of what I do at Crossroads is that I am in charge of the curriculum sessions. I try to assist volunteer leaders in finding qualities of a GREAT Small Group Leader, and how to stay pure in order to help the vision of Crossroads Kids Club.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Blessed, honest and loyal.
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
I always feel like I am a kid whenever I meet with children on Sunday Church Service, and when I am with them during Crossroads Kids Club meetings. My son also makes me feel like a kid because he always wants me to run after him before he takes his bath and play with him as well.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
From my infancy I used to sew without any seamstress guiding me, so when I completed my Tertiary Education, I went to one good seamstress I know to perfect my sewing skills and now I sew for myself. So I have been also helping people who show interest in sewing.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The title of the books is “ABLAZE FOR GOD” written by Wesley L. Duewel. The part of the book that impacted me is “LOVE FOR SOULS IS A SEEKING LOVE”. I realized that when the Holy Spirit fills your heart with inexpressible hunger for souls, He will guide you, wherever possible, in ways to express that Love in seeking the lost. JESUS taught us that LOVE seeks.
What’s a favorite quote?
“Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.” 1 Corinthians 13:4
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Amidu Sulemana Nyatu |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I am a Co-Coordinator of Crossroads Kids Clubs in Ghana. We are working together to impact children and families by mobilizing people to share the Good News with them.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite parts of what I do at Crossroads are team building, training, and finding the proper way to implement the ideas of leaders. It is so appealing and I am appreciative for what God has done in the lives of families.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Pastor, Teacher, and Friend.
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
I love to tell stories and play games with my kids and my wife, which gives me inner joy and lets me feel like being a kid again.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I am a singer and love to train people on the field. In one of our meetings, I was force to play instruments due to the absence of the players, but that was really amazing. That challenge gave me another chance to use my talent.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Charles H. Spurgeon is one of the greatest authors I have come across in my course of study. In one of his books titled “The Soul Winner”, he said in regards to the topic “Qualifications for Soul-Winning Godward” that “You may preach very fine sermons, but if you are not yourself holy, there will be no souls saved.”
What’s a favorite quote?
Mark 16:15-18 – “He said to them, ‘Go into the world and preach the Gospel to all creation, whoever believes and is baptized will be saved. But whoever does not believe will be condemned.'”
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Sara Palla |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I coordinate our events, help launch new clubs, work with the regional team, and keep the books while primarily located in Orlando FL.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love connecting with people. I love that in this role I get to build connections with kids I would never otherwise meet. So I love empowering churches and working alongside them in the gap to build the bridge between the community and the church body. I want everyone to feel they matter. I want everyone to know they have a place to belong. When we can build up schools and churches, we strengthen our communities.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Devoted, adventurous, friend-making
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Living life around kids, whether it’s my students at camp or playing nine-square or belting VeggieTales songs in the car with my middle school students. I love living life with them. And I’m always down for a Disney movie night with lots of snacks and cozy blankets.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I would say axe throwing, I’ve been known to hit bulls’-eyes. Or the ability to back a U-Haul into a loading dock.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World by Joanna Weaver. This book encouraged me to view rest at the feet of Jesus as more productive than the loud to-do lists that appear to be more productive.Or Christian Heroes Then & Now: George Müller. I read this as a kid, and it was one of the earliest impacts for wanting to work in ministry.
What’s a favorite quote?
“I want to know more than just my mother’s faith. Cause that’s not enough to get through the rough.”—“Monday Morning Faith Song” by Chelsea Plank and SEU Worship
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Jon Strietzel |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Creative Content Director
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
The opportunity to create lessons that can impact the spiritual health of kids!
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Considerate, Caring, Loyal
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
When I am running around the park playing tag with my son.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
As a kid I taught myself to juggle.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Transforming Prayer by Daniel Henderson has changed the way I view prayer and how I pray. This change has led to a deeper relationship with the Lord.
What’s a favorite quote?
“There is all the difference in the world between knowing the Word of God and knowing the God of the Word.” –Leonard Ravenhill
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Zach Dorrel |
What is your role at Crossroads?
My role at Crossroads is to help bring on new churches to get new clubs started in the Chicagoland area. With more clubs we will be able to have a greater impact in our area for the Kingdom.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love getting to share with others how God has been working in the club I help lead and encourage others of the potential of what God can do through them.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Energetic, Relational, Wild
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Disney music! Anytime “The Circle of Life” plays I blast the radio and jam out! But seriously anytime I hear music from my childhood it makes all of my adult responsibilities fade away and I remind myself everything will be alright.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I love working with wood. Finding a project online and thinking to myself that I can do that, and then doing it is such a great feeling. My wife also finds projects that she wants me to do as well. Sometimes they get done… sometimes they don’t.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Insert generic answer: The Bible. What more can you ask for in a book. Not only does it have the ultimate truth for life, but it has some pretty amazing war stories as well. I mean come on who doesn’t love a good story about a bear attack! (2 Kings 2:23-25)
What’s a favorite quote?
“The more you like yourself, the less you are like anyone else, which makes you unique.” – Walt Disney
Psalm 139:14 “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
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Samuel Porchá |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Ministry Growth Director.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
Building relationships with churches and helping to walk alongside them in reaching the next generation for Christ!
What are three words that people use to describe you?Encouraging, passionate, trustworthy
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Living room dance parties with the family.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I am a Christian rapper and do spoken word.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Kingdom Man by Dr. Tony Evans.
What’s a favorite quote?
“If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” – Frederick Douglass
“The greatest tragedy in life is not death, but a life without purpose” – Dr. Myles Munroe
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Grace Nguyen |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I am the website and mobile app developer here at Crossroads, and my role is to program our mobile application, creating and releasing new features! I also maintain our website and can help with general IT troubleshooting questions.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part of what I do at Crossroads has got to be working together with the rest of the team and our volunteer leaders to come up with new ideas for content, and figuring out the best way to implement those ideas. It’s so wonderful to see the ideas and inspiration that God has put on the hearts of our creative team!
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Nerdy, expressive, and optimistic!
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
I love to play board games with my little siblings and my husband! Goofing off with my four brothers and sisters definitely makes me feel like a kid again.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I recently got into bookbinding, which lets me fix the covers of books that are falling apart in my collection, and even allows me to add works that my friends have written to my library.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
C. S. Lewis is one of my all-time favorite authors, and my favorite of his books is The Screwtape Letters. There is something profoundly impactful about examining human nature and spirituality from an outside perspective, and I’ve felt convicted many times reading this book!
What’s a favorite quote?
“The Shepherd laughed too. ‘I love doing preposterous things,’ he replied. ‘Why, I don’t know anything more exhilarating and delightful than turning weakness into strength, and fear into faith, and that which has been marred into perfection.’” Hannah Hurnard, Hinds’ Feet on High Places
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Kim Kline |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I help cultivate relationships with church leaders, financial partners and volunteers as well as equip club leaders with all they need to launch and lead a thriving Kids Club. I help with everything from creating content to equipping leaders, communicating with financial partners and managing the brand through graphic design.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love hearing stories from leaders of kids who have been impacted because of their involvement in Crossroads. In my time with Crossroads, I have heard many stories of kids making a decision to follow Jesus, kids reading the Bible with their families, leaders helping kids get support during difficult times, whole families being completely changed and so many more stories of Jesus moving through incredible leaders.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Relational, enthusiastic, engaged
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Every time I go on vacation, I feel like a kid again. I love the anticipation of knowing something fun is coming and experiencing new things, sites, and adventures with my family. I still get butterflies in my stomach when we get in the car or plane, excited about what is to come.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
During the pandemic, I learned graphic design, which is now part of my role with Crossroads. I love helping to tell stories visually through photo and design.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer. It was a great reminder of all the things that have become a distraction from the life that God has created for me and how to focus my energy, time, and attention on what is most important.
What’s a favorite quote?
“In every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.”—Mary Poppins (from the film Mary Poppins)
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Rolando González Chacón |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Director for Latin America.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
To give hope of Jesus to the children. To give vision to pastors, for the new generations, and train people for new clubs.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Pastor, Teacher, Friend
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
When I am with a small group.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
Shaping the iron when I am welding.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Counseling: How to counsel Biblicallyby John MacArthur.
What’s a favorite quote?
“Those who love their beauty more than God say that there is no God but her: their happiness does not rest in the God that created the world but in the benefit of the pleasures they have made their god.” –John F. MacArthur
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Gail Reese |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Northeast Ohio Regional Coordinator
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
Sharing vision and the need for Crossroads Kids Club with Pastors and Individual Believers in Christ. Uniting the Body of Christ to pool our resources and serve together in reaching this young generation for Christ!
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Warrior, Resilient, Motherly
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Roller Skating! I thoroughly enjoy the Gospel Skate Nights in our region. I enjoy the fun, fellowship and worship while skating with youth and adults.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I play the piano! I’m not the best. I have wanted to play since I was a little girl. I play well enough to help in worship when the accomplished musicians are absent. I am a great, sometimes loud, cheerleader, sometimes shouting “Praise the Lord” at games! I began cheerleading for my basketball playing daughter, now my volleyball playing granddaughters, as well as my football playing grandson and my basketball coaching husband!
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Bible! I began reading and studying it at 17 years old when I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior. I love reading and have read lots of Christian Books but none more than the Bible. It has greatly impacted, guided, and changed my life! As it revealed God’s love for me, it healed my hurts and wounds, freed me from anger and unforgiveness and more! It is still my number 1 book!
What’s a favorite quote?
Philippians 1:21 – “For To Me To Live Is Christ And To Die Is Gain!”
GIVE STOCK
Giving a gift of stock is easy. To complete an electronic transfer of stocks, bonds, exchange-traded funds (ETF’s) or mutual funds from your account directly to Crossroads Kids Club, simply provide the following to your broker:
Delivery to: Fidelity Investments
DTC Number: 0226
Account Name: Crossroads Kids Club
Account Number: 614231983
Comments: Crossroads Kids Club, (Your Name)
Please contact Matt Armstrong at [emailprotected] to notify of your gift or for additional information.
GIVE OTHER NON-CASH ASSETS
To give other non-cash assets such as real estate or business ownership interests, you can contact CEO Matt Armstrong at:
[emailprotected]or 630-526-1500
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Angie Pagel |
What is your role at Crossroads?
St. Louis Regional Coordinator.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love equipping and empowering club leaders! Sharing my educational expertise and children’s ministry experiences whilst answering questions has been my favorite. It’s so much fun to unite the body of Christ and see how our unique gifts come together.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Ambitious, detail oriented and tenderhearted
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Playing games with kids! All the energy that kids have during group games is contagious. I love to participate and see the world through their eyes.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I can sing the alphabet backwards.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Fervent by Priscilla Shirer has taught me how to strategically battle against our enemies in the heavenly realms in prayer.
What’s a favorite quote?
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”—Jesus
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Amber Neuse |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Houston Regional Coordinator.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love connecting with churches! I am grateful to work with church staff and church members who are passionate about sharing the gospel and reaching children for Jesus.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Organized, outgoing, intentional
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Dancing! I love putting on music and dancing with my kids.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I love to sing! I have weak vocal chords so I can’t do it as much as I would like. I was in the worship band when I was in high school.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Chronicles of Narnia—When I was a child, it helped me connect deeper with Jesus.
What’s a favorite quote?
“We do hard things.” It’s our family’s motto.
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Sara Moz |
What is your role at Crossroads?
My role is Club Coordinator in El Salvador. My job is to maintain direct contact with the clubs that have been started in the country, provide support in questions related to the use of the application and material used to teach the club, collect testimonies and experiences of the clubs in El Salvador.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part is being able to see the testimonies of children and small–group leaders and how the lives of the children and leaders have been transformed, in the same way I can see the different contexts in which the children who attend the club have lived, knowing these experiences encourage us to continue with the club to generate a change in our communities.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Organized, passionate, caring
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
I feel like a kid again when I can go on a long trip, enjoy some snacks, enjoy the view, and take a nap on the way. It reminds me of my childhood watching my dad driving while my brothers and I took a nap in the back of the car.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I am very good at decorating. I consider myself a creative person, and I can organize parties from the decorations to the activities and games.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
I was very impacted by Nelson Mandela’s biography. I think it is a story full of injustices, and even with all these injustices, I can admire the courage he had to raise his voice against them.
What’s a favorite quote?
“I live for an ideal for which I am willing to die.” -Nelson Mandela
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Vicky Garcia Rodriguez |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I am the bilingual ministry coordinator. I help to ensure that Crossroads resources and training are available in both English and Spanish.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love serving Crossroads with my skills, making it possible for people in Spanish communities to fully understand and serve.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Outgoing, service minded, willing
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Playing with children—racing, coloring, swimming, etc.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I can switch between English and Spanish so quickly, even I sometimes don’t notice.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck
What’s a favorite quote?
“Seek the Lord and his strength. Seek his face always.” (Psalm 105:4)
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Erick Galvez |
What is your role at Crossroads?
My role as coordinator in Guatemala is to oversee, and maintain communication with, the different clubs and leaders at the national level, giving the necessary help regarding their doubts and comments and give the necessary guidance for the fulfillment of the mission and vision of the Crossroads Clubs.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part is working with a ministry that exists to bring the message of salvation to children and to be part of the transformation of new generations through the Word of God.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Easygoing, fun, humble
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Being able to share with children by playing games and talking and discovering what they think and feel and how they see things reminds me of how I was in another time and how God asks us to be like children because of the sincerity and faith that is in them.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I am able to be spontaneous and creative. When I don’t have something prepared, I can create my own stories, and I believe it is a gift that God has given me.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Bible has always been my favorite book.
What’s a favorite quote?
“Fear not, for I am with you” (Isaiah 41:10). That makes me feel safe when I’m afraid.
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Daysi Carrasco |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I am the National Director of Crossroads in Honduras, where I represent the ministry, promote its vision, give training and open new clubs in different churches in the country.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love interacting with the children, sharing with them their experiences and needs and knowing that as I share the Word of God with them, their lives can be changed through children’s ministry.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Passionate, responsible, and dedicated
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Playing games and making crafts with the children makes me feel like a child again.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I have the ability to encourage others and help them move toward a vision. I am a tenacious woman who has the ability to make things happen.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Generals of God. It tells the story of men and women who had an impact on their generation and on generations to come through their example. Because it shows both their strengths and weaknesses, others see that they have an impact also in these new times.
What’s a favorite quote?
“You are my witness, O Israel!” says the Lord.
“You are my servant.
You have been chosen to know me, believe in me,
and understand that I alone am God.
There is no other God—
there never has been, and there never will be.” (Isaiah 43:10, NLT)
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Amanda Beissler |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I oversee the development of curriculum and other club resources, and engage volunteers in the mission of Crossroads.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I enjoy hearing what the Lord wants young people to know and watching him communicate his heart to them through Crossroads leaders as they use the curriculum.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Warm, loyal, adaptable
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
Going to my cabin in northern Minnesota.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
I have a photographic memory.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Back to the Gospel by Peter Louis
What’s a favorite quote?
The Moravian missionary call: “May the Lamb that was slain receive the reward of his suffering.”
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Rosy Becerra |
What is your role at Crossroads?
Training Coordinator for Crossroads Kids Club leaders and teachers. Create and design training courses according to the needs of the clubs. Deliver workshops and courses. Visit clubs, maintain contact with leaders and teachers.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
My favorite part is seeing how the teachers and club leaders, once they receive training, feel more confident and secure about performing their duties in front of the children. It is very gratifying to observe their interest in learning and the love they show in different conflicts the children present and to know that they are doing a work of containment and love within the clubs.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Kind, intelligent, capable
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
I feel like a child when I see nature. I remember when my parents used to take us on trips, either by car or train. Seeing and enjoying the landscapes, the mountains, the sea, the desert, or the fields generates a lot of joy for me. I feel like a child when I am teaching a class in front of children, playing with them, listening to them, laughing, eating a snack.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
Social and relationship skills. I like listening to people, teaching, and group management.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
Several books have had an impact on me. Living on the Edge by Loren Cunningham, Profile of Three Monarchs by Gene Edwards, and undoubtedly, The Bible.
What’s a favorite quote?
Philippians 4:13, “For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength.”
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Matt Armstrong |
What is your role at Crossroads?
I have the joy of leading the staff, working with the board of directors, and building ministry partnerships. I guide the ministry in executing our strategy and vision. I also have the joy of serving as a “club captain” at one specific local Kids Club each week.
What is your favorite part of what you do at Crossroads?
I love our mission! I could not be more excited to work making disciples of the next generation. I also enjoy working with many different people and learning about their lives and interests. We have board and staff members based in other states and countries, and the relationships we share are very meaningful to me.
What are three words that people use to describe you?
Passionate, dedicated, adventurous
What’s something that makes you feel like a kid again?
When I was a kid, my grandparents had a lake house. I would spend hours on the water, swimming, canoeing, fishing, skiing, or boating. So, being on the water makes me feel like a kid again.
What’s an interesting or unexpected skill or talent you possess?
When people first meet me, many are surprised that I am fluent in Spanish.
What’s a book that has had an impact on you?
The Celtic Way of Evangelism by George G. Hunter III. It describes the methods of St. Patrick, which revolved around community, hospitality, storytelling, and contextualization of the gospel. God used Patrick to transform Ireland, and the book’s thesis is that these same approaches can help us to reach our culture for Christ in this century.
What’s a favorite quote?
“Attempt great things for God. Expect great things from God.”—William Carey
Since high school, I have had a desire to serve vulnerable kids. It breaks my heart to see kids who are abused, neglected, lonely, in poverty or otherwise hurting. I long for them to experience the love of God through a personal relationship with Jesus. I’m passionate about Crossroads because I have seen the gospel bring hope to so many children, and I believe that we can transform our world if we can reach our kids.
I am married to the love of my life, Adriana, and we have two amazing daughters and a godly son-in-law. I hold bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Wheaton College and Wheaton Graduate School along with a professional certificate in nonprofit and philanthropy from Northwestern University. I enjoy running, gardening, walking the dog and investing time to encourage the next generation of Christian leaders over a good cup of coffee.
Samuel Porchá
Ministry Growth Coordinator
My passion for the next generation comes from my personal experience of losing my dad at twelve years old. I never forgot how challenging those times were. I lived in close proximity to brokenness, despair, confusion and depression. But God blessed me with a mother that introduced me to the hope that lies in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
As an adult I realized how critically important one caring adult and the Gospel was to changing the trajectory of a life. Now, it’s my turn to be that one caring adult and share the Gospel. Children aren’t in our way..they are on our path!
I am married to my high school sweetheart Kimberly and we have four amazing children. I hold a degree in Biblical Theology and have served in Ministry over the last 15 years. I love reading, ice cream, ESPN and family movie night!
“Children are a gift from the lord, they are a reward from him” Psalm 127:3
Angie Pagel
St. Louis Regional Coordinator
My love for God influences every single aspect of my life. Because He first loved me, I can radiate His glory in humble service with gratitude. My favorite way to serve Him is by sharing the love of the gospel of Jesus Christ with children.
Jesus said, “All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me, therefore as you are going, make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey all I have commanded and surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:18-20
I am currently and graciously walking this out in St. Louis, Missouri with my devoted husband Chip, our 3 fearfully and wonderfully made biological children, and dozens of spiritual children. I rejoice as God mends my brokenness and allows me to share this journey with Crossroads Kids Club – where we connect children and their families with Jesus Christ – the author and perfecter of our faith.
Amber Neuse
Houston Regional Coordinator
With a passion for reaching children for Christ and serving my church community, I started volunteering as a Team Captain for Crossroads in 2021 outside of Houston, Texas. I am a mom of three girls under the age of three and my husband and I love helping at our family ranch raising cattle.
In 2023, I joined the team as a Regional Coordinator to help expand and support the ministry in Houston and throughout Texas. My prayer is that God will use me through Crossroads to mobilize the local church to reach children for the gospel of Jesus.
Jordan Pounds
Orlando Regional Coordinator
Children are so important to the heart of God! I firmly believe it’s up to us to partner with God to fill their hearts and minds with Kingdom principles that will guide them in shaping the future with their choices and lifestyles. I will do whatever I can to support Crossroads, as they have committed to bringing children into the fullness of Jesus Christ through creative kingdom discipleship.
I am originally from Aurora, IL, but moved to Orlando, Florida to attend Nations College in the fall of 2023 for ministry. I am married to my wonderful husband Brandon, and we are patiently waiting for the Lord to bless us with our own children. I enjoy reading, journaling, hanging out with good friends, and spending time quality time with my Savior Jesus. I am so excited to see what unfolds for the Central Orlando region, and I am overall so honored to be a part of bringing children (and their families) into relationship with Jesus through Crossroads!
“Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God…” Mark 10:14
Amanda Beissler
Ministry Coordinator
The Lord has planted in me a desire to see children as integral members of the body of Christ. When Jesus returns, there will be children on the earth, and the Lord’s desire, and mine, is that they would be ready to welcome him! My hope and prayer is that as children come to know Jesus as he truly is, their hearts would be captured by him, and he would become their greatest joy.
I joined the Crossroads staff team in March of 2020 before graduating a few months later with a bachelor’s degree in Christian formation and ministry from Wheaton College. I’m originally from Woodbury, Minnesota, but I have made Illinois my home to serve on the Crossroads team. I enjoy discipling the youth and kids at my church, connecting with my local community and meeting new people.
Kim Kline
Director of Ministry Development
When I was in middle school, I went through a rough season of life. School was a place I felt isolated and hurt. But one day, I was invited to a club that took place once a week after school. I walked in the doors of the Crossroads club at my school, and I felt welcomed and cared for. I made friends, grew in my relationship with the Lord and enjoyed every minute of being a part of that club.
Later, God led me into ministry to help kids come to know him. I worked in youth ministry in Houston for almost eight years and then God led me back to Crossroads to help others pour into the lives of kids in public schools.
While in Houston, I met my husband, Alex, and we are expecting our first child in February. I graduated from North Park University with a bachelor’s degree in youth ministry. I love spending time at the dinner table with my family,cuddling my dog, listening to country music and helping caring and consistent adults reach kids with the gospel of Jesus.
Grace Ritzema
Web and Mobile App Developer
I am a Wheaton College graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in computer science, and I am considering continuing my education with a focus on teaching. I consider myself a “global citizen,” as I have lived in Laos, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Thailand, and most recently, Vietnam. Because of this, I especially have a heart for international ministry and outreach. I love making art, crafting, reading science fiction and learning new things from people around the world.
Through my experiences in IT, God has inspired me to see technology as a powerful communication tool for his kingdom. I am excited to see how technology can impact the mission of Crossroads and what God will do through our website and mobile application development.
Guy Silagi
Chicagoland Regional Coordinator
I came to know Jesus as my savior at age 21. Growing up without a relationship with Christ was often painful and frustrating. I can only imagine what my life would be like if I knew Jesus at a young age. Don’t get me wrong, the Lord has redeemed my life and has turned a painful story into a most joyous one. What I love about Crossroads Kids Club is that it brings the hope of Jesus to children at a young age so they can start their lives off on a joyous journey and hopefully side-step some of the pain that I had to experience.
I’m married to my beautiful wife Cheryl who has such a love for children that it’s contagious. I have two boys, one who is a school counselor in a rural high school in western MI and my youngest is a college student studying to be a secondary English teacher. I enjoy filmmaking, photography, gardening, traveling, hiking and kayaking. Adventure could very easily be my middle name!
SEND A CHECK
You can send a check by mail, payable to Crossroads Kids Club, to:
Crossroads Kids Club
PO Box 699
Streamwood, IL 60107-0699
Vickiel Garcia Rodriguez
Bilingual Ministry Development Coordinator
When I was first invited to a Crossroads club I couldn’t go for months until I found a way to get out early from work for one day. And then I told my boss I had to go back. I started to serve in children’s ministry in my mid-teens and have enjoyed getting to know and understand their life circ*mstances in order to teach better. I graduated from Moody Bible Institute with a degree in Communications and Bible and later from their seminary with a degree in Biblical and Theological studies – so it is a dream come true to teach unchurched kids about God and the Bible and to be part of a ministry that does that.
I was born in the Dominican Republic, lived in Massachusetts & Illinois and I currently live in Florida, defrosting, with my family where God has started a church plant, and we get to be a part of it. I look forward to hearing about you.
Larry Jones
Urban Ministry Development Coordinator
My early years growing up in the Englewood Community were filled with fun, friends, family and a bright future. Being educated in the Chicago Public School system sure had its difficulties, but with passionate educators our community thrived and was inspired. Soon after graduating from Simeon Career Academy, I enlisted in the United States Army Reserve. I served for eight years including three years of active duty during Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
Some of my proudest accomplishments are being married to my wife, Cheryl, for nearly 30 years and raising our (now) young-adult children, David and Melody. Besides working with Crossroads, I pastor a passionate church serving the south side of Chicago where I grew up. Rhema Revealed Worship Center International is a church in the community and for the community. I’m excited that our church is partnered with Crossroads, and I am thrilled to work with Crossroads to reach even more children in our nation’s cities.
ROLANDO GONZÁLEZ CHACÓN
LATIN AMERICAN MINISTRY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
My passion for reaching children comes from my personal experience. When I was a young, I was steeped in fear, loneliness and despair, but God brought a pastor into my life who had a calling to disciple children. Through this mentoring relationship and studying God’s Word, my life began to change as I came to know Jesus as my Savior. I understood that the purpose of my life was to bring praise and glory to the heart of God in everything I did.
I entered Bible college at the age of 15, knowing that I had received a call from God to reach children with the gospel and to disciple them. I received a bachelor’s degree in ministry, and later I earn another bachelor’s degree in law and a master’s degree in theology. I have been a pastor for 33 years. I grew up in Guatemala, but 25 years ago my wife and I were sent to be missionaries in Mexico. Although she is Mexican and I am Guatemalan, we both see Mexico with eyes of mercy. We are the parents of a son, daughter-in-law and two daughters. I am passionate about the vision and mission of Crossroads, and it is my joy to share it with leaders in Latin America.
