The Roots for Churches podcast

S4E12 Children at the Table: Making Communion Intergenerational, with Melanie Cave

From a talk at the Intergenerate '26 conference, this episode explores Roots’ Bread & Wine research into making communion accessible and invitational for the whole church.
Melanie Cave shares findings, practical case studies (toddler services, multilingual parishes, youth-led reflections, outdoor and care-home eucharists), and adaptable prayers and choreography to help churches include children, people with dementia, neurodivergence, and those for whom English is not a first language.
Listeners will hear about the churches' challenges, and the resulting innovative approaches to intergenerational communion Roots discovered and highlighted in case studies. Roots Bread & Wine makes the Eucharist inclusive, accessible, and meaningful for all ages and backgrounds. You'll hear about small steps churches can take to create more intergenerational, sensory, and participative communion services. And you can discover Root's layered, ecumenical communion prayers, and a visual timetable to reduce anxiety and help those with additional needs navigate the service well. 
Keywords
intergenerational communion, church inclusivity, Eucharist, church resources, religious education, ecumenical worship, church innovation, Bread & Wine, Roots for Churches
 
Key Topics
Challenges of intergenerational communion
Ecumenical approaches to Eucharist
Innovative case studies in church settings
Sound Bites
"Communion can be challenging intergenerationally"
"Communion is adaptable and powerful in many settings"
"Who feels most at home at your communion table today?"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context
01:21 Understanding Communion Experiences
03:39 Challenges of Intergenerational Communion
05:20 Roots for Churches and Ecumenical Resources
08:32 Creating Inclusive Communion Practices
11:49 Case Studies in Innovative Communion
19:41 Practical Steps for Intergenerational Communion
25:56 Conclusion and Reflection
 
Show notes
Roots Bread & Wine Communion resources, articles and case studies www.rootsforchurches.com/communion
Visual timetable for churches www.rootsforchurches.com/VT
 

S4E11 Forming Faith: Myths, Wilderness & the Stories We Tell, with Martin Shaw

Melanie Cave interviews Martin Shaw, exploring the profound role of storytelling, myth, and wilderness in our spiritual growth. We explore the importanceof stories in church life, personal initiation, and cultural identity, unpacking how stories shape our understanding of God, community, and ourselves, and advocating for a more untidy, questioning approach to faith and spirituality.
Keywords
storytelling, myth, spirituality, Christian faith, wilderness, initiation, church, cultural identity, sacred stories, religious experience
Key topics
The role of storytelling and myth in spiritual life
The importance of wilderness for initiation and transformation
The relationship between myth, culture, and identity
Sound Bites
"We live in a symbolic world surrounded by metaphors."
"Bible stories are profoundly mysterious and layered."
"May rocks be rolled away and new life rise this Easter."
Chapters
00:00 The Roots of Storytelling
03:32 The Meaning of Myth
06:09 Myth and National Identity
09:13 The Power of Nuanced Stories
11:54 Storytelling in the Church
15:00 The Role of Wilderness in Initiation
24:26 Embracing the Dichotomy of Spirituality
26:32 The Balance of Wildness and Community
29:31 Navigating Prophetic and Pastoral Tensions
32:52 The Interplay of Mystery and Understanding
35:48 The Power of Storytelling Across Generations
42:30 Diversity in Storytelling and Spirituality
45:40 Reflections on Personal Myths and Prayer
Show Notes
Liturgies of the Wild by Martin Shaw https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/477131/liturgies-of-the-wild-by-shaw-martin/9781846048913
Roots for Churches www.rootsforchurches.com
 

S4E10 Intercultural Church & Children's Ministry, CMN conference highlights

Show Notes:
A concise collection of excerpts from the Children’s Ministry Network Conference (March 2026) on how churches and children’s ministries can respond to a changing, multicultural UK. Melanie Cave introduces the theme, followed by Dr Israel Olofinjana on intercultural theology, Dr Phoebe Owen on identity, and Nathaniel Jennings on intercultural discipleship.
Listeners will hear theological foundations, real-life challenges for second- and third-generation children, practical ideas for worship and leadership, and tips for building relational, justice-aware, intergenerational ministries. 
 
Books & Articles:
Great book on cultural awareness to notice and celebrate and work with difference: The Culture Map
Israel’s latest book: Polyphonic God
Treasures of the nations, an article about third culture kids (TCKs) by Nathaniel Jennings
The 3D Gospel: Ministry in Guilt, Shame, and Fear Cultures by Jayson Georges
Podcasts/Videos:
Roots for Churches Intercultural church playlist. Includes ‘Treasures of the nations’ video used in worship and Phoebe Owen’s spoken word about identity
OMF Podcast series- Building Intercultural Church
Interview with Jessie Tang about Intercultural worship
Training and Resources:
Intercultural church training: Phoebe’s organisation runs courses, and monthly huddle groups online
OMF intercultural training for churches:
Songs for intercultural/ multi-lingual worship: https://songs2serve.eu/
Networks for ongoing support:
Anglican Network for Intercultural Churches www.anic.org.uk
Intercultural Churches UK www.interculturalchurches.org
EA One People Commission www.eauk.org/what-we-do/networks/one-people-commission
Weave www.icctgathering.net
OMF intercultural Ministry www.omf.org/uk/get-involved/intercultural-ministry

S4E9 Reimaginging Evangelism: Community Organising, with Charnelle Barclay

Melanie Cave speaks with Charnelle Barclay from the Centre for Theology and Community about reimagining evangelism as a call to justice and holistic transformation. Charnelle explains how community organising—listening deeply, empowering agency, building relational power, and addressing root causes—connects faith with practical action, examples include a local safety campaign and a food-share project that drew people into church life.
The conversation outlines practical steps for churches: shift theology toward holistic care, practice intentional listening, support grassroots leadership, and use the cycle of prayer and organising to research, act, evaluate and rest. Resources and training are available for churches wanting to start.

S2E10 Homegrown Faith: Reclaiming homes as sacred spaces for Youth & IG Ministry, with Sam Richards and David Howell

Today’s episode explores hosting youth ministry and intergenerational small groups in homes — the theology, hospitality and practical safeguarding. Melanie Cave talks with Dr Sam Richards and David Howell about the history of guidance pre- and during COVID, how homes can be holy and formative spaces, and the practical steps churches need (risk assessments, transparent accountability, and intergenerational thinking). 
keywords
youth ministry, homes, safeguarding, intergenerational, youth work, church, community, youth groups, spiritual formation, youth leaders
 
takeaways
Youth ministry can be a lifelong calling.
The world that young people grow up in has changed significantly.
Safeguarding is essential but should enable good practice.
Homes can be positive spaces for youth ministry.
Integrity is crucial for building trust with young people.
Reflective supervision is necessary for youth leaders.
Intergenerational dynamics enrich youth ministry.
Creating safe spaces is vital for effective youth work.
Hospitality reflects the values of the kingdom.
Youth work should be rooted in community and relationships.
Sound Bites
'Youth ministry can be a lifelong calling.'
'Youth work should be taking place in homes.'
'Hospitality is a description of the kingdom.'
Chapters
00:00 Journey into Youth Ministry: Personal Stories
09:09 The Evolution of Youth Ministry: Changes and Challenges
15:15 Government Involvement in Youth Work: A Historical Perspective
20:18 Navigating Safeguarding: Balancing Trust and Professionalism
29:29 Safeguarding and Enabling Good Practice
30:43 Youth Ministry Challenges and Policies
31:24 Challenging the Fear Narrative Around Homes
33:17 The Importance of Homes in Youth Work
35:47 Vulnerability and Integrity in Home Settings
37:06 Health and Safety Considerations in Homes
37:51 Hospitality and the Kingdom of God
39:17 The Role of Homes in Community and Faith
40:11 Safeguarding in Home Settings
44:34 Accountability and Reflective Practice
45:41 Intergenerational Spaces and Their Impact
50:09 Resources for Safe Youth Work in Homes
 
Show Notes
Sam Richard's articles for Roots on 'How to set up an intergenerational Small group' and 'Can youth groups meet in homes?' ADD LINKS
Guidance for URC local church activities in private dwellings - United Reformed Church
Guidelines for Children’s and Youth Ministry in personal homes Youthwork in Private homes, report on the Churches Together in England
New guidance for youth work in private dwellings demands ‘no compromises’ around safety of young people - National Youth Agency
Home-grown Youth Work - Keeping Young People Safer in Private Dwellings. David Howell, Grove Books.
www.rootsforchurches.com

S4E8 What the church should know about Weight Loss Drugs, Body Dysmorphia, with Di Archer and Cherry Dakin & Eating Disorders

This episode explores the rise of weight-loss injections and the sharp increase in eating disorders since the pandemic, including concerns like bigorexia and the impact on young people. Guests Di Archer and Cherry Dakin from Taste Life UK share lived experience, recovery work, and practical youth resources.
Hosts discuss how churches can respond with compassion, spot warning signs, offer safe spaces, and access training and courses (Food, Feelings and Faith; Taste Life) to support individuals and families alongside medical services.
 
Show notes
Tastelife
Brighton University School of Education, Sport and Health Sciences
The Role of Religion, Spirituality and Social Media in the Journey of Eating Disorders: A Qualitative Exploration of Participants in the “TastelifeUK” Eating Disorder Recovery Programme
Roots for Churches articles
 
Further listening
The Hunger Game

S2E9 Mentoring is not the answer, with Sandy Brodine

Melanie Cave interviews Sandy Brodine, an intergenerational ministry leader from Australia. They discuss Sandy's journey into ministry, the state of intergenerational practices in Australian churches, and the importance of shared meaning making in worship. Sandy shares insights on the dynamics of learning together, the role of discussion in faith formation, and the need for active learning in church settings. They also explore the challenges of navigating change in traditional church environments and the significance of tradition versus innovation in worship practices. The conversation highlights the beauty of scripture, the importance of mentoring, and the creative approaches being taken in intergenerational ministry, including the innovative use of Minecraft for church activities.
Keywords
intergenerational ministry, church, Australia, shared meaning making, faith formation, mentoring, active learning, tradition, innovation, community
Takeaways
Intergenerational ministry is becoming more common in Australia, especially in Uniting Churches.
Shared meaning making is a key concept in intergenerational worship.
Discussion and active learning are essential for faith formation.
Mentoring should be a mutual relationship rather than a one-way transfer of knowledge.
Children and young people can offer valuable insights and wisdom.
The beauty of scripture is that it remains relevant and can be interpreted in new ways.
Tradition and innovation can coexist in church practices. Creative approaches, like Minecraft Church, engage younger generations.
Navigating change in church settings requires sensitivity and gradual implementation.
sound bites
'We have to wrestle things through.'
'Mentoring is not the answer.'
'Kids are very wise.'
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context of Intergenerational Ministry
01:54 Sandy's Journey into Intergenerational Ministry
05:16 The Appeal and Growth of Intergenerational Church
08:54 Shared Meaning Making in Worship
12:31 The Importance of Active Learning in Faith
16:07 Wrestling with Faith and Questions
19:43 The Relevance of Scripture in Changing Times
20:26 Rethinking Mentoring in Intergenerational Ministry
24:31 The Role of Humility and Mutual Learning
27:14 Innovative Approaches: Minecraft Church
30:06 Navigating Control and Chaos in Church
33:58 Tradition vs. Modernity: The Sacred Connection
37:03 Resources for Intergenerational Ministry
 
Show Notes:
• Intergen Australia: https://intergen.org.au/
• Roots for Churches: www.rootsforchurches.com
• Uniting Church in Australia (Victoria and Tasmania): https://victas.uca.org.au/

S4E7 Dethroning Mammon: How Churches Can Use Money for Justice

Melanie Cave and Sarah Edwards explore the often uncomfortable topic of money within the church context. They discuss the importance of addressing financial issues, the biblical principles surrounding money management, and the need for churches to create supportive environments for financial discussions. The conversation emphasizes the role of money in justice, the spiritual implications of financial decisions, and practical steps for churches to engage in ethical banking and financial advocacy. Ultimately, the discussion aims to normalize conversations about money in faith communities and encourage a holistic approach to financial stewardship.
 
Keywords
money, church, finance, justice, giving, ethical banking, financial literacy, discipleship, community support, advocacy
 
Takeaways
Money is a significant topic in the church that needs to be addressed.
The Bible has a lot to say about money management and ethics.
Fear and discomfort around discussing money can be overcome.
Churches should create supportive environments for financial discussions.
Financial inequality must be acknowledged in church conversations.
Ethical banking practices can align with church values.
Money can be used for good or for evil, reflecting our values.
Discipleship includes understanding our relationship with money.
Practical steps can help individuals and churches manage finances better.
Advocacy for financial justice is a crucial role for the church.
 
Sound Bites
'Money makes the world go round.'
'We need to talk about money in church.'
'We are part of a dysfunctional system.'
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Money and Justice
01:55 Sarah's Journey into Finance and Justice
03:57 Cultural Attitudes Towards Money
05:57 Biblical Perspectives on Money
11:09 Normalizing Conversations About Money in Churches
17:25 Addressing Financial Diversity in Congregations
20:41 The Role of the Church in Financial Support
22:43 Making Ethical Financial Changes in Churches
27:37 Balancing Ethics and Financial Returns
29:46 The Importance of Collective Action
34:11 Understanding Mammon and Its Influence
38:59 Engaging Young People in Ethical Finance
41:52 Conclusion and Resources for Action
42:39 Introduction to Financial Conversations in Churches
43:29 Resources for Church Leadership and Growth
 
Show notes
www.rootsforchurches.com
Sarah's article for Roots: Making our money work for justice
https://justmoney.org.uk/
Money makes change small groups resource
Money makes change hub
https://www.bankwell.uk/
Christians against poverty
The Trussell Trust
UK sustainable investment and finance association
https://good-with-money.com/
https://www.ethex.org.uk/

S4E6 Storytelling: Parable like Jesus, with Gemma Gillard

Melanie Cave interviews Gemma Gillard of Truth Be Told about the power of storytelling and parables in church and community settings. They discuss why stories stick, how Jesus used parables, practical storytelling techniques, and the ways stories connect across generations and cultures.
Gemma shares examples of storytelling in schools, care homes, refugee groups, and Sunday services—and points listeners to Truth Be Told’s resources, training, and membership for anyone wanting to grow their storytelling confidence and reach.
Roots weekly resources also offer many ways to share and explore stories with children, youth and intergenerationally, including dramas, story mats, inhabiting the stories through empathy, multisensory suggestions, illustrations, art, and videos.
 
keywords
storytelling, parables, Truth Be Told, intergenerational, church resources, effective storytelling, audience engagement, narrative, spiritual teaching, community
 
takeaways
Storytelling is a powerful tool for connection.
Parables serve to teach moral lessons and engage listeners.
Truth Be Told offers resources to enhance storytelling in various contexts.
Simplicity in storytelling helps maintain audience engagement.
Intergenerational storytelling fosters community and understanding.
Adapting stories for modern audiences is essential for relevance.
Intrigue in storytelling encourages deeper exploration of themes.
Storytelling can break down cultural and language barriers.
Effective storytelling requires practice and confidence.
Engaging audiences through participation enhances the storytelling experience.
Sound Bites
"Stories can break down barriers."
'We're wired for story.'
'Storytelling connects us all.'
Chapters
00:00 The Power of Storytelling
02:44 Understanding Parables and Their Impact
05:35 Truth Be Told: Resources for Storytelling
10:02 Skills for Effective Storytelling
13:27 Intergenerational Storytelling
16:05 Adapting Stories for Modern Audiences
19:19 The Role of Intrigue in Storytelling
24:01 The Science Behind Storytelling
27:36 Engaging Audiences Through Participation
 
Show Notes
Read Gemma's article: https://www.rootsforchurches.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/power-of-storytelling
https://truthbetold.org.uk/
www.rootsforchurches.com
 

S4E5 The Choral Revival: Part 2, Gospel & community choirs, with Julia Daintree

Melanie Cave interviews Julia Daintree about the growing popularity of community choirs in the UK and their role in connecting people to faith. Julia shares her journey of starting a gospel choir, the challenges of copyright and costs, and the transformative impact of music on individuals and communities. The conversation highlights the importance of building relationships, inclusivity, and the personal stories of those who have found faith through choir participation.
 
Keywords
choir, community, gospel music, faith, church, copyright, costs, transformation, friendship, inclusivity
 
Takeaways
Choirs have become a significant part of community life in the UK.
Copyright and costs are essential considerations for running a choir.
Gospel music serves as a bridge to connect people with faith.
Community choirs provide a space for friendship and belonging.
Many individuals find faith through relationships formed in choirs.
Inclusivity is key to attracting diverse participants.
Starting a choir can be done without extensive musical knowledge.
Marketing through social media is effective for choir recruitment.
Personal stories of transformation highlight the impact of choirs.
Choirs offer a sense of purpose and dignity to participants.
 
Sound Bites
'It's a starting point for love.'
'It's about including people.'
'I found my sort of people.'
 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to community choirs and faith
03:49 The journey of starting a gospel choir
06:17 The role of gospel music in outreach
09:16 Building community through choirs
12:02 The impact of choirs on personal faith
14:35 Connecting with the lonely and isolated
17:14 Real-life transformations through choirs
20:03 Advice for starting a community choir
22:45 Marketing and growing your choir
24:53 Creating an inclusive choir environment
27:41 The power of music in spiritual connection
35:38 Encouraging stories of changed lives
38:13 Conclusion and call to action
44:33 Introduction to Roots for Churches resources
45:31 Roots Discovering God series
45:56 Subscription benefits and Resources for community engagement
 
Show notes 
Statistics on choirs in the UK
Julia Daintree’s choirs 
https://www.singwellchoir.co.uk/ 
https://www.facebook.com/commuitywellbeing/ 
https://www.messengerschoir.org/ 
Links Julia suggested 
Hal Leonard
https://www.sheetmusicdirect.com/ 
https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/ 
https://www.arrangeme.com/ 
https://alpha.org.uk/ 
Association of British Choral Directors https://abcd.org.uk/ 
www.rootsforchurches.com 
Roots for Churches ‘Reimagining Evangelism’ series includes Julia's article: The choral revival
Roots Discovering God PDF bundle: www.rootsforchurches.com/DG