Ep. 387: Experiential Learning to Develop True Faith with Virgil Tanner

For the first time in the history of the Barna Research, more young women are leaving the faith than young men. Jay Holland and Cicely Corry discuss the work of Barna, focusing on the intersection of church and culture. They explore the methodologies used in their research, the importance of data for parents and leaders, and the concerning trend of young women disengaging from faith. Cicely shares insights into the reasons behind this trend, including social dynamics and perceptions of safety within church communities. The discussion emphasizes the need for churches to create welcoming environments for young women and the role of community in fostering faith. This conversation explores the dynamics of friendships between genders, the importance of intentionality in building relationships, and the empowerment of young women in leadership roles. It discusses the challenges faced by Gen Z in navigating faith and spirituality, emphasizing the need for mentorship and community support. The dialogue highlights the role of parents in fostering curiosity and community among their children to help them thrive in their faith journey.

Takeaways

• Parents can benefit from Barna's insights to raise their children in faith.

• Young women are increasingly identifying as having no faith, a concerning trend.

• Social dynamics and safety perceptions impact young women's engagement with church.

• Community and friendship are vital for youth engagement in church.

• Churches need to create safe spaces for young women.

• Men's friendships often thrive on shared interests. Women tend to have more complex social dynamics in friendships.

• Shared experiences help deepen connections among individuals. 

• Visible female leadership in churches empowers young women.

• Mentorship plays a significant role in young women's development.

• Gen Z shows intrigue in spiritual matters despite declining church affiliation.

• Parents should engage in curious conversations with their children.

• Community involvement is essential for faith retention.

• Encouraging young people to step out of their comfort zones fosters growth.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

Cicely Corry is Editorial Director at Barna Group, where she leads online content strategy to help Christian leaders understand key trends affecting the Church. Previously, she managed social media strategy and content for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and wrote for the Christian Broadcasting Network. Cicely has served in student ministry for over 10 years, and founded Three Minute Study, an online Bible study community helping others understand, enjoy and apply Gods word

She holds a M.A. in journalism from Regent University and a B.A. in print journalism and marketing from Hampton University. Cicely is an Atlanta native now living in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and two sons.

Resources mentioned:

Barna site: https://www.barna.com/  

Gen Z Vol. 3 Study: https://www.barna.com/gen-z-volume-3/ 

Barnas Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/barnagroup/?hl=en  

Barna Access Plus: https://www.barna.com/access/ 

Cicely Corry's Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/cicelycorry/   

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In this conversation, Jay and Virgil explore the concept of missional households, emphasizing the importance of experiential learning, community, and intentional practices in family life. They discuss how to create a nurturing environment for spiritual growth, the significance of regular rhythms in the household, and adapting to life changes while maintaining a missional mindset. Through personal stories and practical advice, they highlight the transformative power of faith in everyday life.

Takeaways

• There's a difference between knowing about something and truly knowing it.

• Learning requires experience, community, and a compelling story.

• Discipleship is best understood as a relational network rather than individual mentorship.

• Deep learning occurs in community settings, not just through sermons.

• Intentional rhythms in the household can foster spiritual growth.

• Experiential learning can be integrated into family gatherings.

• Simplicity in practices makes them easier to maintain.

• Children learn through repetition and experience in their environment.

• Creating a missional household involves being consistent with values and practices.

• The narrative of a household can guide the family's mission and identity.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

As the Senior Director of OneTree, Virgil is responsible for leading the team to help mission, marketplace, and ministry leaders thrive holistically, do beautifully integrated work, and become everything God dreamed them to be, believing this to be a primary means for stewarding the reviving life of God through His people into the world.

Virgil holds a B.S. in Biology, an M.A. in Religion and Cross Cultural Studies, and an MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction. He is presently working on an EdD in Christian Leadership.

Resources mentioned:

https://www.onetreeministries.org/

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In this conversation, Jay and Virgil explore the importance of character development over mere skills in leadership and parenting. They discuss the need for experiential learning in faith and the role of community in nurturing youth. The conversation emphasizes that discipleship should primarily occur in the home, supported by a network of relationships that foster growth and understanding.

They also discuss the importance of building significant relationships, particularly in the context of youth ministry. They explore the influence of social media on young people's lives, emphasizing the need for adults to step in and provide positive guidance. The discussion highlights the role of desire in shaping behavior and the necessity of intentional connections in youth ministry. They also address the importance of encouraging risk-taking and resilience in young people, advocating for experiential learning over theoretical knowledge. The conversation concludes with practical advice for parents on how to engage in transformative conversations with their children.

Takeaways

• Leaders often have more information than formation.

• Character is more important than skills in leadership.

• Experiential learning is crucial for true understanding.

• Discipleship must happen primarily in the home.

• Community plays a vital role in faith development.

• Youth often leave the faith due to lack of relational engagement.

• Knowing about something is different from truly knowing it.

• Parents' involvement in faith practice significantly impacts youth retention.

• Building a supportive network for youth is essential.

• Teaching faith should be experiential, communal, and narratively situated. Aim for at least seven significant adult relationships.

• Social media influences youth in unhealthy ways.

• Desire drives behavior more than cognition.

• Intentional connections can impact youth positively.

• Encouraging risk-taking helps build resilience.

• Experiential learning is more effective than theoretical knowledge.

• Transformative conversations can lead to deeper understanding.

• Modeling behavior is crucial for youth development.

• Recognizing and affirming individual strengths is important.

• Learning from failure is a valuable experience.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

As the Senior Director of OneTree, Virgil is responsible for leading the team to help mission, marketplace, and ministry leaders thrive holistically, do beautifully integrated work, and become everything God dreamed them to be, believing this to be a primary means for stewarding the reviving life of God through His people into the world.

Virgil holds a B.S. in Biology, an M.A. in Religion and Cross Cultural Studies, and an MEd. in Curriculum and Instruction. He is presently working on an EdD in Christian Leadership.

Resources mentioned:

https://www.onetreeministries.org/

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/

In this conversation, Jay and David discuss the evolving challenges faced by children and adolescents in today's world, particularly in the context of counseling. They explore the importance of emotional regulation, the balance between naming feelings and navigating them, and the need for parents to find a healthy middle ground in their approach to parenting. The discussion also highlights the significance of building resilience in children through healthy risks and practical strategies, such as the 'exposures and ladders' approach to overcoming anxiety. Additionally, they introduce the Daystar Dog Series, which aims to teach resilience through stories featuring therapy dogs.

Takeaways

• The same child development principles apply today as in the past.

• Technology has significantly impacted the challenges children face.

• Parents may overcorrect in their approach to emotional support.

• Naming emotions is important, but navigating them is crucial.

• Resilience in children is diminishing due to overprotection.

• Healthy risks are essential for children's growth and development.

• Parents should reflect on what they do for their children that they could do themselves.

• Anxiety often stems from avoiding discomfort and challenges.

• Exposures and ladders can help children face their fears.

• Storytelling through the Daystar Dog Series can teach resilience.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Bio

David Thomas, LMSW, is co-executive director of Daystar Counseling in Nashville, Tennessee, and the author of 10 books including his most recent book, Raising Emotionally Strong Boys (Bethany, June 2022). A frequent media guest and speaker, David has spoken to hundreds of thousands in person and millions via his Top 10 kids & family podcast, Raising Boys and Girls, now with more than 10 million downloads since its launch in 2018. Learn more at RaisingBoysAndGirls.com.

Resources mentioned:

Raising Boys and Girls website

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In this episode, Jay Holland discusses the often-overlooked practice of fasting within the Christian faith. He shares personal reflections on his struggles with fasting, its biblical foundations, and the spiritual benefits it can bring to one's life, marriage, and parenting. Jay emphasizes the importance of humility and submission to God through fasting, encouraging listeners to consider making it a regular part of their spiritual journey.

Takeaways

• Fasting is a practice that can lead to spiritual breakthroughs.

• Jesus expected his followers to fast, just as they pray and give.

• Fasting is often under-taught and under-practiced in the Christian community.

• Fasting can help with clarity in decision-making and spiritual direction.

• The act of fasting cultivates humility and dependence on God.

• Fasting can aid in repentance and soften one's heart.

• Fasting is a way to tame the flesh and resist temptation.

• Fasting is not about manipulating God but seeking His will earnestly.

• Regular fasting can lead to a deeper relationship with God.

• Fasting should be approached with a heart of humility and submission.

Lets Parent on Purpose is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcasting Network. For more information, visit www.ChristianParenting.org

Resources mentioned:

Join my Things for Thursday Email List and get a free Marriage Snapshot Tool and Fun Family Conversation Ebook! 

Support Lets Parent on Purpose as we help families thrive through the gospel: https://letsparentonpurpose.com/support/