
Game-Changing Family Ministry Ideas for Churches of Any Size | Ep. 242

Hear how one Minnesota church partners with Connected Families for family ministry ideas that truly equip and support their families. In this episode about partnerships, Stacy Bellward (host) and Cindy Wilson (Connected Families Ministry Partnership & Research Program Manager) are joined by special guests Justie Vavra and Megan Thorp to discover how the transformative Connected Families Framework is available to anyone to bring to their communities. If you’re a parent, caregiver, teacher, or ministry leader, listen in to learn how you can make an impact in your sphere of influence.
Key Points:
- Summer church attendance exploded in Minnesota. What did they do?
- How high schoolers are applying the CF Framework with sensitive kids
- How one parent can impact the entire church culture
Mentioned in this podcast:
- Connected Families Certified Parent Coaching Program
- Connected Families Ministry Partnership Program
- Book: How to Grow a Connected Family by Jim and Lynne Jackson
- Discipline That Connects With Your Child’s Heart Online Course
- Book: Discipline That Connects With Your Child’s Heart by Jim and Lynne Jackson
- Sensitive and Intense Kids Online Course
- Grace and Truth for Parents Online Course
- Discipline That Connects in the Classroom
Check out our website for more resources to support your parenting!
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This podcast was made possible by members of The Table, whose monthly support creates a ripple effect of change for generations to come. We’d love to have you take a seat at The Table!
Guest Bio:
Megan Thorp:
As a parent coach, Megan helps parents gain confidence and create homes where everyone feels valued and connected. She’ll equip you with skills to build lasting relationships with your kids and bring more peace and joy into your family. Megan has a Master’s in Counseling Psychology and is a Certified Parent Coach through Connected Families. She enjoys time with her husband and 3 kids. Connect with Megan at: [email protected] or here. Connect with Megan at: [email protected] or here.
Justie Vavra:
Justie Vavra is a devoted mother of three (ages 8, 10, and 11) and has been married to her husband Chris for 15 years. A former elementary school teacher, she now serves as Executive Pastor at Mercy Hill Church, which partners with Connected Families. Justie is passionate about guiding the next generation and nurturing connection and growth within her family and community through God’s grace and truth.
© 2025 Connected Families
Ready to dive in and learn more about the Framework?
Our 8-session online course, Discipline That Connects With Your Child’s Heart will guide you through each level of the Framework. If you’re looking for a grace-filled way to parent, this course is for you!
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