The Roots for Churches podcast

Imagine grandparents, grandchildren and whole families boarding a vintage train for the journey of a lifetime — meeting Jesus at every station through prayer, games, serving, learning and collaborative crafts. Together they eat, laugh, share stories of faith and explore Bible stories from Luke with simple spiritual practices that welcome every age.
Explore the innovative intergenerational holiday club 'A Journey of a Lifetime' with Roots' MD Melanie and writer Alison Hulse, focusing on faith, community, and spiritual practices that unite all ages in a shared journey of discipleship.
This ready-to-run holiday club helps churches bring generations together, adaptable for Sundays or midweek, with story-telling ideas, station activities, take-home reflections and safeguarding guidance so communities can grow in faith and relationship.
 
Keywords
intergenerational holiday club, faith, community, spiritual practices, children, grandparents, discipleship, church community, faith development, family faith
 
Key Topics
Intergenerational holiday club design
Spiritual practices for children and adults
Building faith community across ages
Sound Bites
'Humility and mutual learning are key.'
'Encounter God in new and diverse ways.'
'Share your faith journey with others.'
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Alison Hulse and Roots for Church
02:05 Understanding Intergenerational Holiday Clubs
04:12 Creating Spaces for All Ages
06:51 Engaging Activities and Stations
09:25 Bible Stories and Their Impact
14:33 Exploring Spiritual Practices
17:07 The Role of Spiritual Pathways
18:59 Impact of Holiday Clubs on Children and Communities
22:15 Intergenerational Learning and Humility
23:56 Hopes for Community Formation
25:19 Practical Implementation of Holiday Clubs
 
Show Notes
www.rootsforchurches.com
https://www.methodist.org.uk/faith/a-methodist-way-of-life/
https://www.rootsontheweb.com/seasons-and-festivals/festivals/holidays
https://roots-for-churches.myshopify.com/
 
 

Melanie Cave talks with Jess Masters-Carrer about why Gen Z and Gen Alpha are increasingly drawn to sacramental spirituality and how churches can welcome and equip young people to share faith. They explore themes such as belonging before believing, the role of liturgy and ritual, embracing mystery, and practical mission approaches focused on invitation and relationship.
The episode offers practical ideas for youth workers and church leaders—creating safe spaces for questions, teaching liturgical language, using digital content to demystify worship, and building long-term discipleship—so young people can invite friends into sacramental traditions with confidence.

The spiritual climate is shifting and Gen Z and Gen Alpha are more open to the gospel than many expect. Melanie Cave interviews Aaron Routledge about why evangelism can feel awkward, how culture has changed, and why we need to move from scripted presentations to natural, curiosity-led conversations.
They explore practical steps (the Five B's), encouraging stories, and resources for churches and youth leaders to equip and release young people to share their faith with confidence and love.
Keywords
evangelism, youth ministry, faith sharing, relational evangelism, church youth, spiritual conversations, gospel, youth leadership, faith in action, church resources
Key Topics
Shifting from presentation to conversation in evangelism
Tools and models for effective faith sharing
Understanding cultural shifts among young people
Building confidence in youth to share their faith
Resources and programs to support youth evangelism
Sound Bites
"Tolerance is a really poor moral standard. Love is the highest form of morality"
"Evangelism is sharing good news, naturally"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Youth Evangelism
03:51 Aaron's Journey into Youth Work
06:28 Challenges of Evangelism for Christians
15:07Shifts in Evangelism Over the Years
17:56 Changing Worldviews Among Young People
20:55 The Importance of Relational Evangelism
23:41 Equipping Young People for Evangelism
26:20 The Five B's of Gospel Conversations
29:07 Preaching vs. Sharing the Gospel
34:41 The Power of Conversational Evangelism
36:58 Overcoming Barriers to Evangelism Training
39:07 Discipleship vs. Evangelism: Finding Balance
41:12 Creating a Culture of Gospel Conversations
42:56 Empowering Young People for Mission
45:44 Releasing vs. Retaining: A New Mindset
48:21 Resources for Youth Leaders
53:17 Encouraging Stories of Faith Sharing
Show Notes
 
The Charge https://www.message.org.uk/thecharge/ Amplify - The Young Evangelists Academy | United Kingdom https://www.amplifyacademy.co.uk/
Gospel Advancing Ministry - An Effective Youth Ministry Strategy https://www.dare2share.org/gospel-advancing/
Roots' article series on reimaginging evangelsim www.Rootsforchurches.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/re-imagining-evangelism
 

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
 

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
 

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

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.

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

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

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/