The Roots for Churches podcast

S3E9: Supporting ADHD in church, with Dr Naomi Fox

Melanie sits down with Dr Naomi Fox, a children's occupational therapist and the founder of Growing Hope. Naomi shares her expertise on ADHD, a condition affecting around 4% of the population, and how it presents unique challenges in social, academic, and occupational settings. Recognising ADHD as a form of neurodiversity, she emphasises the importance of creating inclusive environments within church communities.
Naomi discusses practical strategies for children's and youth workers to engage children and young people with ADHD, ensuring they feel welcomed and supported. By implementing sensory-friendly practices and embracing neurodiversity, churches can become places where everyone can belong and flourish. Naomi also highlights the work of Growing Hope, a charity providing free therapy for children with additional needs in partnership with local churches, and the transformative impact these clinics have on church communities.
For training, including When Dreams Change Facilitator Training, and more on Growing Hope clinics visit: www.growinghope.org.uk
For visual timetables head to: www.rootsforchurches.com/VT

S3E8: Churches supporting mental health through worship and care, with Corin Pilling

Melanie Cave chats with Corin Pillings, the Director of Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries in the UK, about how churches can become places of support, understanding, and connection for those facing mental health challenges.
Drawing from personal stories and Sanctuary’s mission, Corin shares practical advice on how faith leaders and communities can approach mental health with compassion and wisdom. Together, we explore theological perspectives such as Shalom and Suffering, and how these insights can enrich our understanding and support of well-being within church settings.
Whether you're a church leader looking to guide your congregation or someone interested in the role of faith in mental health support, this episode offers thoughtful perspectives and actionable resources to help make a difference in your community.
Read Corin's article in Roots Worship Together issue 137 www.rootsforchurches.com/Church-a-mental-health-sanctuary
Explore the Sanctuary Course or the Youth Sanctuary course to hear the stories of the intersection of faith and mental health. https://sanctuarymentalhealth.org/uk/
Contact the Samaritans Call 116 123 or www.samaritans.org

S3E7: Did Paul write that? Paul as you never knew him, with Simon Jones

This episode of the Roots for Churches podcast delves into the complex and often controversial figure of the Apostle Paul. Join Melanie Cave as she chats with Simon Jones, a theologian and activist, to dissect Paul's life, mission, and the various perceptions surrounding his legacy.
Was Paul a proponent of misogyny and homophobia, or a misunderstood champion for social change?
Explore these questions and more, as Simon offers insights into Paul’s narrative theology and his role as a community organizer rather than simply a church planter.
Learn about the layers of authorship in Paul's letters and gain fresh perspectives on his writings in Romans, Galatians, Colossians, and the pastoral letters. Engage with the rich discussion about the societal impact of Paul's teachings and how they challenge contemporary faith communities today.
Roots resources for 2025 include a substantial series on Paul's Letters. Dig into all Roots' background, preaching and teaching resources on Paul's World and his letters at www.rootsforchurches.com/Paulsworld2025  
Read Simon's article at www.rootsforchurches.com/did-Paul-write-that

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