The Roots for Churches podcast

S3E6: Redeeming Masculinity, with Revd Will Van Der Hart

Melanie Cave and Revd Will Van Der Hart delve into the complexities of masculinity in contemporary society. They explore the crisis of masculinity, its implications for young men, and the role of the Church in addressing these issues. The discussion touches on the impact of pornography, the importance of parenting, and the need for open conversations about masculinity and femininity. They emphasise the necessity of defining masculinity in a way that promotes healthy relationships and respect, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by societal changes and cultural narratives. Although the conversation might raise more questions than it answers, it serves as a critical starting point for a deeper reflection on how the Church can foster environments of respect, equality, and understanding.
Will Van Der Hart is an ordained Anglican priest, director of the mental health charity Mind and Soul Foundation, and an author, communicator and executive coach. Will's article on masculinity is in Roots Worship Together Issue 138, available in print and online.
Takeaways
Masculinity is often defined in relation to violence and abuse.
Statistics show a troubling rise in violence against women and girls.
The role of pornography in shaping unhealthy masculine identities is significant.
Parenting plays a crucial role in developing healthy masculinity.
The Church has a responsibility to address masculinity issues openly.
There is a crisis of young men feeling lost and unsupported in society.
Conversations about masculinity must include perspectives from women.
Cultural narratives around masculinity are shifting and need to be addressed.
Healthy masculinity can coexist with feminist ideals.
The Church can and should be a space for reconciliation and dialogue on these tough issues.
 
Chapters
00:00 Exploring masculinity: A personal journey
04:12 The impact of violence on women and girls
06:54 The role of pornography in masculinity
09:37 Cultural shifts and masculine identity
12:30 The crisis of masculine absenteeism
15:19 Navigating masculinity in the Church
18:03 The intersection of masculinity and societal change
20:39 Defining masculinity in a modern context
23:36 The nuances of masculine traits
26:16 The future of masculinity: a call to action
33:49 The role of men in shaping future generations
35:32 Navigating controversial topics in the Church
37:42 The challenge of feminism and masculinity in leadership
38:33 Recovering Biblical perspectives
40:35 Challenging toxic masculinity and misogyny
42:21 Living in paradox: masculinity and femininity
42:34 The complexity of Jesus as a model for women
44:38 The need for guardrails in these conversations
45:55 Addressing awkward Biblical passages
47:57 The impact of online influences on young men
49:57 Resources for positive masculinity conversations
54:21 Exploring masculinity in Church
54:49 Resources for addressing domestic violence
 
Links:
https://www.centreforsocialjustice.org.uk/library/lost-boys
https://www.restored-uk.org/resources/
https://www.restored-uk.org/blog/page/9/
https://www.whiteribbon.org.uk/
www.rootsforchurches.com

S3E5: Can we have a youth group and still be intergenerational? with Suzi Farrant

In this episode of the Roots for Churches podcast, Melanie Cave, Managing Director of Roots for Churches, chats with Suzi Farrant, the Young People and Young Adults Development Worker for the Church of Scotland. They explore the concept of intergenerational church and its potential to be more than just an added ministry but an essential shift in church culture.
Susi shares her decade-long journey from traditional youth work to discovering the empowering nature of intergenerational ministry. They discuss how this approach can enhance church life without needing to dismantle beloved youth and children's groups, emphasizing participation, mutual learning, and the richness of shared stories across ages.
The conversation also touches on practical ways to build and nurture authentic relationships within congregations, bridging the gap between young and old and fostering a cohesive community where everyone contributes to and benefits from their collective faith journey.
Read Suzi's article in March/April 2025 issue of Roots' Children & Youth (issue 136) and online.
Get a copy of Suzi's book, Being and Intergenerational Church
Check out Intergenerate UK for webinars and networking with others on the intergenerational journey. www.intergenerateuk.org

S2E3: Receiving from children & the theology of the child, with Chris Barnett

Melanie Cave chats with Chris Barnett, Executive General Manager of Intergen in Australia. Chris shares his insights on building relationships across generations, emphasizing that being intergenerational is all about deepening those connections beyond just age-specific programs.
We explore the core values that define successful intergenerational ministry, including mutuality, reciprocity, and equality, and address the often-overlooked theology of the child, discussing how we can spiritually receive from children's contributions.
Through this conversation, Chris outlines practical steps for churches to move from being multi-generational to intentionally intergenerational. Discover the significance of relationship-building in truly thriving intergenerational worship communities.
This episode is filled with practical advice, from suggested reading to actionable steps like the five Ps, to help churches integrate intergenerational practices effectively.
Show notes: 
Values of intergenerational ministry
Mutuality
Reciprocity
Equality
The 5 P's
Planning
Preparing
Presenting
Participating
aPpraising
https://uniting.church/intergenerational-resources/
https://intergen.org.au/
 

S3E4: The legacy of the Council of Nicaea: 1700 Years On, with Rev Dr Susan Durber

This episode delves into the historical significance and lasting impact of the Council of Nicaea, which took place 1700 years ago. Join Melanie Cave, Managing Director of Roots for Churches, as she chats with Reverend Dr Susan Durber, a retired United Reformed Church Minister and President for Europe for the World Council of Churches. Together, they explore how the Nicene Creed was born out of the desire for unity amidst diversity and how its messages continue to resonate with the church today.
The discussion covers the challenges faced by early church leaders as they crafted language to express their beliefs amidst cultural shifts. Discover the surprising relevance of Nicaea in our modern world as the church tackles issues of unity and understanding in an increasingly divided society. Susan shares insights on how churches can actively participate in celebrating this milestone anniversary while connecting with the rich heritage of Christian faith.
https://www.oikoumene.org/events/nicaea-2025
https://stmellitus.ac.uk/nicaea
www.rootsforchurches.com
https://ctbi.org.uk/resources/week-of-prayer-for-christian-unity-2025/

S2E2: Addressing objections to Intergenerational Ministry, with Suzi Farrant

Join Melanie Cave, Managing Director of Roots, as she welcomes Suzi Farrant, co-author of Being an Intergenerational Church and Young People and Young Adults Development Worker for the Church of Scotland, to explore the concept of intergenerational ministry. This episode addresses common objections and concerns surrounding the shift towards a more intergenerational church community. Suzi shares her journey of discovering the importance of connecting all generations within the church and offers practical insights and compelling theological perspectives on why it's crucial for the modern church.
This enlightening conversation will help pastors, church leaders, and church members consider and embrace new ways to build strong, intergenerational relationships, fostering a community that reflects God's vision for his people. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode to guide your church on its intergenerational journey, presented in collaboration with Intergenerate UK.
Read Suzi's article in Roots' Worship Together magazine issue 136 and online.
Get a copy of Suzi's book, Being an Intergenerational Church
Check out Intergenerate UK for webinars and networking with others on the intergenerational journey.

S3E3: Embracing Mercy in a Polarized World, with Natalie Williams

Should Christians engage in cancel culture? Is it possible to hold justice and mercy in tandem, and what role does forgiveness play in this balance?
Host, Melanie Cave interviews Natalie Williams, author of Tis Mercy All and director of Jubilee Plus about her personal journey of experiencing God's mercy, despite a challenging upbringing and a tumultuous path to faith. Her insights illuminate the power of mercy and its transformative potential. As they explore the intersections of justice, mercy, and wisdom, the conversation challenges listeners to consider how these values can coexist in a world often quick to judge.
Touching on the importance of mercy within church communities and how individuals can integrate these principles into their daily lives, Natalie shares practical tips on fostering a merciful attitude towards others, even in everyday interactions, while navigating the challenges of maintaining balance with wisdom and justice.
Show Notes
Natalie's article in Worship Together: www.rootsforchurches.com/mercy
Natalie's book, Tis Mercy All 
Resources from Jubilee+ https://jubilee-plus.org/resources/
 

S3E2: Behaviour- and Trauma-Informed Children's Ministry, with Lisa Campbell

Melanie Cave sits down with Lisa Campbell, a special educational needs coordinator, to discuss the complexities of managing challenging behaviours in church groups. Lisa shares her expert knowledge on how to create safe, loving, and engaging environments for children attending church, emphasising the importance of trauma-informed care.
We discuss behaviour as a form of communication, exploring the impactful role of church volunteers in establishing spaces where every child feels seen and valued. Lisa introduces useful frameworks such as the 'PACE' approach, which stands for Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, and Empathy, and offers practical tips to help volunteers better connect with and support children, especially those who may be dealing with trauma.
This episode is packed with practical advice and is entirely jargon-free, making it accessible to everyone involved in children's ministry. Tune in to discover how the church can be a beacon of hope and a place of healing and transformation for children. Don't miss this empowering conversation that blends professional insight with spiritual wisdom, reflecting how Jesus' care for us can be mirrored in our approach to children's ministry.
Links
Lisa's Wonderful Me website: https://wonderfulme.org.uk/
Info on the church SENCo service: https://wonderfulme.org.uk/inclusion-support-service
Free Resources: https://wonderfulme.org.uk/resources (This includes the breathing resource, child profile etc that Lisa mentioned)
Star of Safety:https://wonderfulme.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/STAR-of-safety.pdf
Brené Brown clip: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Evwgu369Jw
CYM course Lisa wrote:https://cym.thinkific.com/courses/a-trauma-sensitive-approach-to-childrens-youth-and-family-ministry

S3E1: Can music heal our social divisions? with Stephen Fischbacher

In this episode, we explore the profound impact of music on children and young people's mental health. Melanie interviews Stephen Fischbacher, founder of Fischy Music, to understand how music can positively impact our emotions, bypass our anxious thoughts and build connections. Discover how simple songs taught in schools can promote peace, unity, and emotional well-being among children of all backgrounds. Whether you're a children's or youth worker, church leader, or educator, this conversation offers insights into integrating music to inspire change and nurture emotional and spiritual health. How could you harness the power of music in your church, children's or youth ministry? Join us in understanding the transformative power of music and how it can serve as a unifying force in divisive times.
Read the accompanying article at: https://www.rootsforchurches.com/fischy
https://www.youtube.com/@fischymusic/featured
https://www.fischy.com/

S2E1: This is for all of us: The power of intergenerational ministry, with Darren Philip

In Season 2, we delve into intergenerational ministry. We kick off this series with Darren Philip, a passionate advocate for intergenerational ministry in the Church of Scotland. He shares his journey and insights into creating a church community that embraces all ages. 
From redefining family within the church to innovative worship planning with all-age groups, this episode offers valuable wisdom and strategies. Whether you're an invested church leader or simply exploring the idea of intergenerational church, discover how intergenerational ministry can transform your church community. It's not just for children, it's for all of us. 
Discover how Roots' resources, including the Worship Together magazine, can help you lead a vibrant intergenerational service with creative ideas, prayers, dramas, and discussions.
www.rootsforchurches.com
www.intergenerateuk.org
Read Darren's book, Being an Intergenerational Church: Practices to Bring the Generations Back Together by Suzi Farrant and Darren Philip (Saint Andrew Press, 2023).
Darren and Suzi's intergenerational game:  https://tinyurl.com/IntGenGame
 

Episode 21: Starting sports outreach in your area, with Joe Lowther

In this episode, Melanie Cave sits down with Joe Lowther, CEO of KICK, to explore innovative strategies for reaching young people who are not attending church. With only 5% of children and young people in the UK attending church, Joe shares KICK's mission to transform lives through values-driven physical education, street dance, mentoring, and chaplaincy. Discover how local churches can partner with KICK to connect with the 95% of youth outside the church, leveraging sports and dance as a medium for spiritual and community growth.
Whether you're a church leader or a volunteer, sporty or not-so-much, learn how to effectively engage with young people and provide a space for discovering the love of Jesus in unexpected places.
www.kick.org.uk
Roots provides seasonal outreach resources, such as holiday clubs, and Nativity and Easter trails. Explore the whole range via www.rootsforchurches.com