Children and families are important to God -- and therefore critical to the purpose of the church.

Research analyst George Barna says that issues pertaining to children and family well-being are a rare arena for agreement between sociologists, psychologists and theologians.

So, how does the Christian Church elevate the importance of children and families in a way that facilitates life-changing transformation?

CCN invites pastoral and leadership teams to learn how you can reach beyond the walls of your church to meet the critical needs of the children and families in your community.

Drawing on current research outlined in his book, Revolutionary Parenting, George Barna highlights the 10 most pressing issues facing children and families today, including:

• Spending time together.
• Making home a sanctuary for spiritual growth.
• Making wise choices with mass media.
• Minimizing peer pressure.

Daryl Bursch discusses a new shift from children's ministry to family ministry. Although this change is a positive one, it can have the adverse effect of diluting children's programs.  

"It's a time when the church is going to need to come alive with children's ministry, " says Daryl.

Daryl challenges senior pastors and staff members to take a critical look at the children's ministry at their church, stressing the important relationship between the church and the parent.

Finally, Walt Mueller admonishes churches to view children's ministry as cross-cultural missions. Youth culture is radically and rapidly changing. Children's ministry depends on:

• Listening carefully to the current culture
• Biblically-centered curriculum
• An authentic experience of God
• An absence of legalism

Discover how you can bring the unchanging word of God to the ever-changing world of children and families!

George Barna is the Directing Leader of The Barna Group, Ltd. located in Ventura, California. The Barna Group analyzes American culture and creates both resources and experiences which facilitate moral and spiritual transformation. George has written more than 30 books, including such best sellers as The Frog in the Kettle, A Fish Out of Water, Think Like Jesus, and Transforming Children into Spiritual Champions. George Barna is in-demand for his teachings and expertise, speaking at conferences, churches, universities and seminaries throughout the country. He is a regular speaker on CCN training broadcasts.

Daryl Bursch is the founder and Director of Christian Life Impact Ministries and former Executive Director for the International Network of Children's Ministry (INCM).

Walt Mueller is the founder and President of the Center for Parent/Youth Understanding; author of the critically acclaimed Gold Medallion Award winner, Understanding Today's Youth Culture.