The Journey: PCA Parent Podcast: Recent Episodes
Dan Panetti
A podcast for parents in the PCA system of schools, including PCA Plano, PCA North, and St. Timothy’s Christian Academy.
Guest: Dr. Josh Mulvihill, author, former pastor, currently serving as Executive Director of Church and Family Ministry at Renewanation.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Excellent conversation with Dr. Mulvihill about how to use God’s Word has your guide for life and parenting. Parents, young and old, will find this conversation useful, practical, and engaging - hope you enjoy!
Guests: Chris Harper, Chief Storyteller and CEO, BetterMan Ministries and Gabe Boyd, Pastor of Family Ministry and Director of Trails Students at The Trails Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is a man? The world is increasingly unclear about…and uncomfortable with…masculinity. But what does it really mean to be a man and how can you grow and mature into God’s design for manhood?
That question was at the core of the conversation that I had with my friends and ministry partners Chris Harper at BetterMan Ministry and Gabe Boyd at The Trails Church. The three of us have been wrestling with this concept and training on this issue for decades, so it was really fun to sit down and record this conversation that starts with the development of manhood at the earliest ages and goes all the way to finishing your race strong as a man and leaving a legacy for generations to come!
In our final episode, I was able to chat with Chris Harper and Gabe Boyd about the importance of leaving a legacy of faith for your family and future generations.
Guest: Gabe Boyd, Pastor of Family Ministry and Director of Trails Students at The Trails Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is a man? The world is increasingly unclear about…and uncomfortable with…masculinity. But what does it really mean to be a man and how can you grow and mature into God’s design for manhood?
That question was at the core of the conversation that I had with my friends and ministry partners Chris Harper at BetterMan Ministry and Gabe Boyd at The Trails Church. The three of us have been wrestling with this concept and training on this issue for decades, so it was really fun to sit down and record this conversation that starts with the development of manhood at the earliest ages and goes all the way to finishing your race strong as a man and leaving a legacy for generations to come!
In this fourth of five episodes, I was able to chat with Gabe Boyd about continuing to mature as a man and making progress in your spiritual formation.
Guest: Chris Harper, Chief Storyteller and CEO, BetterMan Ministries and Gabe Boyd, Pastor of Family Ministry and Director of Trails Students at The Trails Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is a man? The world is increasingly unclear about…and uncomfortable with…masculinity. But what does it really mean to be a man and how can you grow and mature into God’s design for manhood?
That question was at the core of the conversation that I had with my friends and ministry partners Chris Harper at BetterMan Ministry and Gabe Boyd at The Trails Church. The three of us have been wrestling with this concept and training on this issue for decades, so it was really fun to sit down and record this conversation that starts with the development of manhood at the earliest ages and goes all the way to finishing your race strong as a man and leaving a legacy for generations to come!
In this third of five episodes, I was able to chat with Chris Harper and Gabe Boyd about family formation. The information we covered is tremendously valuable for young guys looking to start their work and family journey on the right path so that they can be successful in God’s economy, not just the world’s!
Guests: Chris Harper, Chief Storyteller and CEO, BetterMan Ministries and Gabe Boyd, Pastor of Family Ministry and Director of Trails Students at The Trails Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is a man? The world is increasingly unclear about…and uncomfortable with…masculinity. But what does it really mean to be a man and how can you grow and mature into God’s design for manhood?
That question was at the core of the conversation that I had with my friends and ministry partners Chris Harper at BetterMan Ministry and Gabe Boyd at The Trails Church. The three of us have been wrestling with this concept and training on this issue for decades, so it was really fun to sit down and record this conversation that starts with the development of manhood at the earliest ages and goes all the way to finishing your race strong as a man and leaving a legacy for generations to come!
In this second of five episodes, I was able to chat with Chris Harper and Gabe Boyd about the formational years. The information we covered is tremendously valuable for young guys looking to start their work and family journey on the right path so that they can be successful in God’s economy, not just the world’s!
Guest: Chris Harper, Chief Storyteller and CEO, BetterMan Ministries
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is a man? The world is increasingly unclear about…and uncomfortable with…masculinity. But what does it really mean to be a man and how can you grow and mature into God’s design for manhood?
That question was at the core of the conversation that I had with my friends and ministry partners Chris Harper at BetterMan Ministry and Gabe Boyd at The Trails Church. The three of us have been wrestling with this concept and training on this issue for decades, so it was really fun to sit down and record this conversation that starts with the development of manhood at the earliest ages and goes all the way to finishing your race strong as a man and leaving a legacy for generations to come!
In this first of five episodes, I was able to chat with Chris Harper about the early years. The information we covered is tremendously valuable for parents looking to train up their children…or even for young guys wanting to know how to take strides toward God’s design and away from the confusion of the world’s message about manhood.
Guest: David Marvin, Teaching Pastor, Prestonwood
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Great parenting doesn’t always equate to great kids - think about it…great coaches don’t always win the championship, great generals don’t win every battle…but, God’s Word is full of great parenting principles that you’ll want to know and apply in your home and pray that the soil of your children’s hearts are soft and receptive to these godly ideals.
In this conversation with teaching pastor David Marvin, we share some biblical principles and how these can be applied in your parenting situations. Share this episode with some friends and discuss how you can better understand and apply each of these principles in your family.
Five Principles of Great Parenting:
- Passion - love the Lord, love your spouse, love your children
- Purpose - prioritize God and your family, kids are a blessing from God
- Presence - show up and be available, kids spell love T-I-M-E
- Patience - parenting is like gardening, it takes time, energy, and lots of love
- Peace - work to create a home that is stable and secure
Guest: David Marvin, Teaching Pastor, Prestonwood
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Great parenting doesn’t always equate to great kids - think about it…great coaches don’t always win the championship, great generals don’t win every battle…but, God’s Word is full of great parenting principles that you’ll want to know and apply in your home and pray that the soil of your children’s hearts are soft and receptive to these godly ideals.
In this conversation with teaching pastor David Marvin, we share some biblical principles and how these can be applied in your parenting situations. Share this episode with some friends and discuss how you can better understand and apply each of these principles in your family.
Five Principles of Great Parenting:
- Passion - love the Lord, love your spouse, love your children
- Purpose - prioritize God and your family, kids are a blessing from God
- Presence - show up and be available, kids spell love T-I-M-E
- Patience - parenting is like gardening, it takes time, energy, and lots of love
- Peace - work to create a home that is stable and secure
Guest: Doug Powell, author, speaker
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Doug Powell is a multi-talented individual - from musician to novelist to graphic designer and programmer to Christian apologist - Powell might remind you a little of the Ben Gates character from the National Treasure movies. The comparison to Ben Gates is one that I make in this interview with Doug because his book, The Well of the Soul, is an archaeological thriller similar in style to the National Treasure series, but with a Christian element.
Powell is looking to bring that element of suspense mixed with historical facts and Biblical archaeology to the stage at this year’s Biblical Worldview Conference, September 27-29, 2026. Make sure you check out all the upcoming speakers and register to attend at PrestonwoodWorldview.org.
Guest: Jeff Leach, Texas State Representative, District 67
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We continue our conversation with Texas State Representative Jeff Leach about the issues facing the great state of Texas. Last week we talked about some logistical issues relating to the massive migration out of states like California and New York to Texas and how state leaders are grappling with important issues to handle the additional growth. This week we turn our attention to the “Islamification of Texas” with an update on the proposed Muslim city in Collin County as well as the current election run-off and Jeff’s perspective on the future of Texas leadership!
Guest: Jeff Leach, Texas State Representative, District 67
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
As more and more people flood to Texas, state leaders continue to wrestle with ways to handle the rapid population growth while maintaining conservative principles. Texas state leaders like Jeff Leach are dealing with major issues like education reform, an energy and water crisis, all while the population and economy are surging forward. It remains true, that as goes Texas…so goes America! Listen and enjoy the conversation with Jeff Leach and share this with others to help them better understand the important issues facing our state.
Guest: Marcus Price
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
To say that Marcus Price learned some valuable life lessons on his road to the NFL would be an understatement! Listen to Marcus share these incredible lessons and how important his education was to help shape him into the man he is today. Marcus has a passion to train the next generation of student-athletes and he is putting the time and effort to make it happen - listen and learn more about this incredible man and how he is working to pass along a legacy of faith to future generations.
Guest: Marcus Price
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
The road to success is usually filled with pitfalls and obstacles and many give up along the way. But a few not only survive, but thrive on the journey learning valuable life lessons that they then apply to other facets of their life - Marcus Price is one of those success stories. It looks easy at the end…but when you hear more about the journey…you’ll better appreciate the man and his desire to use his God-given talents and abilities.
Guest: Dr. J. Josh Smith, Senior Pastor, Prince Avenue Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
I have really enjoyed the writing of Josh Smith. His earlier book The Titus Ten: Foundations for Godly Manhood was an excellent read and a great resource for men’s groups wanting to dig deeper into the Word of God and life together.
His most recent book is The Man for the Day: Answering the Call to Godly Manhood and it is a much more personal look at the daily walk with the Lord for men - it is both challenging and encouraging at the same time - again, a great resource for men’s groups or for men to read as individuals.
If you want to grow in your relationship with the Lord as a man…and in your relationships with your wife, children, and others, this is a powerful and important book for you to read.
Guest: Dr. J. Josh Smith, Senior Pastor, Prince Avenue Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
I have really enjoyed the writing of Josh Smith. His earlier book The Titus Ten: Foundations for Godly Manhood was an excellent read and a great resource for men’s groups wanting to dig deeper into the Word of God and life together.
His most recent book is The Man for the Day: Answering the Call to Godly Manhood and it is a much more personal look at the daily walk with the Lord for men - it is both challenging and encouraging at the same time - again, a great resource for men’s groups or for men to read as individuals.
If you want to grow in your relationship with the Lord as a man…and in your relationships with your wife, children, and others, this is a powerful and important book for you to read.
Guest: David Marvin, Teaching Pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is the continuation from last week of a conversation with Prestonwood teaching pastor David Marvin about the practical application of God’s commandment to honor your father and mother. Last week we focused on how we, as parents, can honor our own parents. This week we look at how we, as parents, can train our children to obey and honor us - so this is an important conversation!
This conversation grew from a lesson that Pastor Marvin taught at Prestonwood a few weeks ago as part of the series addressing the Ten Commandments.
Guest: David Marvin, Teaching Pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
A few weeks ago, Pastor David Marvin taught an incredible lesson from the Word of God looking at the fifth commandment, honoring your father and mother. I was able to sit down and have an incredible conversation with Pastor Marvin about the practical aspects of living out this commandment, especially when it comes to older parents and the different relationships that we, as parents ourselves, have with our parents.
Pastor Marvin shared some powerful truths about learning to respect the position of authority that God has established even if the performance of your parents was not the best. We talked about the importance of seeking forgiveness and what that truly entails, which can be filled with many obstacles.
Our God is a just and merciful God who desires for us to honor our parents and that commandment should be taken to heart and lived out for others to see. When we trust God, He can do amazing things in the lives of our families.
One resource that I mentioned and found helpful in this discussion was the following:
When People are Big and God is Small: Overcoming Peer Pressure, Codependency, and the Fear of Man by Edward Welch
Guests: Cindy Ziglar Oates and Tom Ziglar
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
In today’s special episode, we dive deep into the incredible life and enduring legacy of the motivational giant, Zig Ziglar. Hosted by Dan Panetti, this episode features a candid conversation with two of Zig’s children, Tom and Cindy, who share personal stories, memories, and reflections on their father’s remarkable impact on the world of personal development and motivation. From his early life to his rise as one of the most influential speakers of the 20th century, join us for an intimate look into Zig Ziglar’s life through the eyes of his family.
Guest: Dr. Shane Pruitt, National Next Gen Director for the North American Mission Board (NAMB).
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Shane Pruitt speaks to students across the country and it was a privilege to sit down and catch up with him to talk about what he’s seeing in this upcoming generation. There is reason for hope…and for concern. While this next generation is interested in spiritual things, they need the focus and refinement of God’s Word and far too few students are being grounded in the Word. This is such an important reminder about the importance of the home, the church, and the school working together - if possible - to provide a consistent and clear message from God’s Word relating to all aspects of life.
Shane is also the author of two outstanding books that were written to help shape the hearts and minds of young people in line with the truth of God’s Word:
9 Common Lies Christians Believe: And Why God’s Truth is Infinitely Better was released in 2019, and Not My Jesus: Reclaiming the Truth, Rejecting the Idols is his latest book released in 2025.
Guest: Adam Griffin, Lead Pastor, Eastside Community Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Had a really enjoyable, energetic, and engaging conversation with Adam Griffin - former “Cheesehead” like myself, now ministering to families here in the Dallas area. Adam was on staff at The Village when he and Matt Chandler wrote and released a great book titled Family Discipleship: Leading Your Home through Time, Moments, and Milestones - really helpful book for Christian parents wanting to be intentional about the spiritual development of their family.
I haven’t read his latest book, Good News for Parents: How God Can Restore Our Joy and Relieve Our Burdens, but it sounds awesome!
Enjoy the conversation with Adam - and if you find this valuable, make sure you share the podcast with a friend!
Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This week we are continuing our conversation with Texas State Representative Matt Shaheen but instead of talking about the primary election, we turned our attention to the issues facing our state (and country) and wrestled with how to think about these critical concepts from a biblical perspective. As the title suggests, we talked about immigration, sharia law, AI, pro-life, taxes, and the separation of church and state - so, yes, we covered a lot of ground!
Also, don’t forget that the primary election season is most likely NOT over - there should be a number of run-off elections if one candidate was not able to secure 50% of the votes - so continue to pay attention and make sure that you stay informed and involved!
Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This was such a powerful conversation with Texas State Representative Matt Shaheen sharing some helpful insights into the political system and how primary and general elections work. Early voting in Texas runs through Friday, February 27th and the primary election date is Tuesday, March 3, 2026. If you are in another state, make sure you check for your primary election date and get out and vote!
In Texas there are several hotly contested races on the federal, state, and levels from one US Senator position to every House member. On the state level, the Texas Governor, Lt. Gov., Attorney General, Land Commissioner, Ag Commissioner, and Railroad Commissioner are also in contested primary battles on both sides of the political spectrum!
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA Upper School Counselor
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is the continuation of a powerful conversation with Erin Williams about marriage and how to make it work. When “two become one” there can be some tension and stress and many times the trials and difficulties of life erupt in harsh words towards the ones we love the most. Erin offers some practical solutions to keeping the marriage relationship strong and thriving even through the difficult times.
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA Upper School Counselor
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Marriage is both wonderful and work. God’s design to express His love and mercy to the world is on full display in the Christian marriage and when two people make a covenant to love each other, it takes the love of Christ in each to truly make the marriage relationship work! Marriage is a tremendous blessing, not only for the married couple, but also for children and grandchildren - the stability and picture of grace and forgiveness speaks louder than a culture that says that marriage is outdated and worthless today. Enjoy this powerful conversation with Erin Williams on the value of marriage and how to make yours even better!
Guest: Dr. Steven Lytle, Founder of Sparrow House Counseling
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This week we continue our conversation with Dr. Steven Lytle at Sparrow House Counseling examining the book Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce about how divorce leaves a lasting legacy in the lives of children.
Judith Wallerstein’s remarkable book The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce: The 25 Year Landmark Study talks about how children of divorce develop a “toolbelt” that helps them navigate the changing and difficult landscape of a broken home - and that toolbelt proved damaging to their own future relationships and marriage.
One take-away that is helpful for parents who have divorced is that they need to work to see the divorce and new reality through the eyes of their children.
Dr. Lytle talks about how damaging divorce can be on the identity of a child - especially when a parent uses a similarity that a child has with a parent as a negative in their life - example: “you act just like your dad” would generally be a positive in the life of a child…but after divorce that statement is weaponized against the ex-spouse and used against the child.
Dr. Lytle reminds us that divorce always has an impact on children. The book also highlights the fact that from a child’s perspective, the divorce of their parents never goes away…while a parent may have an “ex-spouse,” children do not have “ex-parents.”
Dr. Lytle notes that when couples get divorced, it is very difficult for them to truly see the impending negatives, they hope that things will turn out in the best way possible. But that is not a good strategy for dealing with the realities from a broken marriage and home.
The book talks about “blended” or “bonus” families…from the kid’s perspective, these are not positives and they are offended or hurt by trying to put a positive spin on a negative situation.
Parents, final word - good, biblical counseling is a wonderful tool for those looking for some additional wisdom and encouragement - don’t look back and wish you would have…go get some help now.
Guest: Dr. Steven Lytle, Founder of Sparrow House Counseling
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Dr. Lytle and I will spend two weeks taking a deep dive into how divorce impacts children by examining the research and evidence presented in Elizabeth Marquardt’s power book Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce. While this book examines the kid’s perspective of how divorce affects their world, as parents we need to understand this - there are conversations that we need to have and decisions we need to make as parents to better equip our children to better wrestle with the realities that they are facing.
Divorce literally changes the structure of childhood - regardless of whether it was a “good” divorce, or “bad” divorce, from the child’s perspective, divorce creates two new and different realities that they must now cope with and, in many regards, learn to manage at a very young age.
Dr. Lytle says that as children learn to manage the two new realities, many of them become “cameleons” - meaning that they learn to change to fit into the two different realities. Many times children learn to lie to their parents in an effort to protect one or both from the harmful effects of the other parent. Interesting note from the book, the #1 stress of children of divorce is trying to protect the feelings of their mom.
Dr. Lytle points out that while there is no agenda in this book, the evidence does point to the devastating effects of divorce on children, which should be something that parents consider before ending their marriage.
Dr. Lytle points out that many parents take themselves out of community because of their divorce. When things are difficult, that is the time for parents to lean into a loving and caring community. Children of divorce often struggle with trust issues. Parents should make sure that their children are surrounded by other loving and trustworthy adults - the church is so important for children…and adults…during this difficult time.
The book that I studied in a college class that is still powerful, just not written from a Christian perspective is The Unexpected Legacy of Divorce: The 25 Year Landmark Study by Judith Wallerstein.
Host: Dan Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, the research is in and there are many things to be concerned about as we look at the “state of the American family.” Yet, at the same time, the most important take-away, in my opinion, is that once again children select their parents as the most influential people in their spiritual lives - don’t miss that! When it seems that your children are listening more to their peers, social media influences, or just zoning out - remember that the truth you are sharing is having an impact even if you can’t see it right away!
The research also shows that parents talk about the importance of teaching their children the Word of God, saying prayers with their kids, and making sure that as a family they are in church…BUT, less than half of the professing Christian parents actually followed through and did those things! Parents, these should be none-negotiable things in your home - nothing is more important than the spiritual wellbeing of your family…nothing. Take time to reflect on how you’re doing as a husband/father or wife/mother and where you can improve - then take those important steps to grow in your own faith and show your children how to grow in their walk with the Lord.
Guest: Eric Leininger, teacher in the classroom for 14 years
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, one of the primary “shifts” we’ve seen in education deals with the issue of where the responsibility lies. In the old days, students were primarily responsible for their actions; today if students have a problem, the responsibility falls on the shoulders of the teachers.
Parents, when your son or daughter has an issue in the classroom, Eric’s wisdom on how to best handle these situations is to address the problem at home and help your child learn how this situation can best shape their character. Eric does not recommend contacting the teacher unless the situation/problem is egregious. Disciplinary issues at a school or on the court/field are opportunities to train your children about how to better handle situations or how to work through a seeming (or real) injustice.
Before contacting a teacher, Eric recommends that you examine Scripture and pray for God’s wisdom in how to best proceed. As a parent, Eric also recommends that you should look to trust those who are partnering with you in the discipleship process. Modeling for your students that we respect the authority of our teachers is a valuable life lesson.
Here is the link to a video/article of Hannah, a young former high school English teacher who quit after 3 years because of technology and general apathy/laziness of students in the classroom.
Guest: Will May
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Proverbs 14:23 says “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Today, the proverbial Protestant Work Ethic seems like an ancient relic - but with AI and smart phones is hard work a thing of the past? Jump into the conversation with Will May and myself as we dive into the biblical worldview of work - what does the Bible say and how can we as parents instill the value for hard work in our children?
Guests: Parker and Abbi Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is the fourth and final installment of our amazing series with Parker and Abbi examining a variety of angles of college life so that you, as parents, can prepare your students for the various obstacles and opportunities awaiting them on a college campus. The question we ask and answer in this episode is “what does success look like” on a college campus? Some may think that success is getting a 4.0 GPA or landing the “right” job when you graduate…but there’s more…much more to God’s design for your student. Listen and learn in this great final conversation with Parker and Abbi.
Guest: Parker and Abbi Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is the third installment of our four-part series with Parker and Abbi examining a variety of angles of college life so that you, as parents, can prepare your students for the various obstacles and opportunities awaiting them on a college campus. Some studies show that 60-80% of Christians students “walk away” from their faith - that statistic is alarming and unacceptable…but what can we do to counter this mass exodus? That’s the conversation for today’s episode…
Guests: Parker and Abbi Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Hope your family has a Happy Thanksgiving!
This is the second installment of our four-part series with Parker and Abbi examining a variety of angles of college life so that you, as parents, can prepare your students for the various obstacles and opportunities awaiting them on a college campus…or, for this week, preparing your home for when they return! Whether your child is a senior in high school or in first grade, there are important elements of their faith that will ground them regardless of the environment around them.
One resource that I can highly recommend is The Most Important Place on Earth: What a Christian Home Looks Like and How to Build One by Robert Wohlgemuth. Great reminder about the opportunity to build our children on God’s Word in our homes…as we send them out into the world…and when they return.
Guest: Parker and Abbi Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This will be a four-part series with Parker and Abbi examining a variety of angles of college life so that you, as parents, can prepare your students for the various obstacles and opportunities awaiting them on a college campus. Whether your child is a senior in high school or in first grade, there are important elements of their faith that will ground them regardless of the environment around them. In addition, with a biblical worldview, they will not merely survive the college experience, but thrive in their faith journey while in college.
Guest: Jason Illian, CEO Highmount Capital
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Great conversation with good friend Jason Illian - he’s right in the thick of it with three great kids who are also great athletes. How do you prioritize eternal things over temporary, spiritual life over athletics - many parents are far more concerned with their child’s performance on the court and less concerned with their character. Can your kids love Jesus…and be great at sports? Listen as we wrestle with these concepts and navigate the “wide world of sports” from a Biblical perspective.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We went LIVE to record this week’s podcast exploring election returns from Texas and across the country - what happened and what can we learn from these events? Always looking to examine issues from a biblical worldview, hopefully our election reflection was valuable and entertaining for you!
Guest: Audrey Sol (Loyola) Diaz
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This week we continued our conversation about all things political with Audrey Diaz. Audrey is a great, young voice for truth with a solid background in politics from her family’s involvement growing up to her time working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Aubrey is also an alumnus from Prestonwood Christian Academy graduating in 2015 before she went on to attend college at Baylor University.
Guest: Audrey Diaz
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
From efforts in Texas to redistrict to the latest Supreme Court cases related to gender issues and parental rights, listen as we talk about how Christians should not only think about these important issues, but also encourage believers to stand boldly for the truth in a culture that is buying and promoting lies counter to God’s design. Audrey is a great, young voice for truth with a solid background in politics from her family’s involvement growing up to her time working on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Aubrey is also an alumnus from Prestonwood Christian Academy graduating in 2015 before she went on to attend college at Baylor University.
Guest: Michael Perron, Minister of Life Recovery, Prestonwood Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians that human beings are more than merely physical beings, rather we are body, soul, and spirit. Listen as we speak with Michael Perron, an expert in the physical fitness world for years, now share his thoughts and wisdom about how all three aspects of our life are interconnected and vital for human flourishing. While the world offers temporary shortcuts for improvements in some areas, Michael encourages the listener to dive deeper into their motives before making quick fix decisions that will ultimately cost more than they benefit.
Guest: Ricky Chelette, Executive Director for Living Hope Ministries
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Ricky Chelette helps us understand how the “T” of LGBTQ has "changed everything." Sexual orientation used to be something you were “born with” and was unchangeable, but today both gender and sexuality are seen by many as being on a sliding scale and can be changed on a whim! From battles over men in women’s sports and locker rooms to accusations that institutions are prescribing hormone blockers to children as young as 8 years old, transgender ideology has taken our current cultural chaos by storm and Christian parents need to understand how to engage in a meaningful and biblical way! Ricky also helped launch The Institute for Biblical Sexuality, whose mission is to train the church and future generations about God's remarkable design for gender and sexuality.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We had the opportunity to speak with several students and adults at the 2025 Biblical Worldview Conference and heard their perspective on why “worldview” is crucial and how to develop a Biblical worldview. If you were unable to attend the conference or want to watch every session of the entire conference, all 30 sessions are available for purchase at PrestonwoodWorldview.org, including additional content with each speaker that was not available at the conference itself.
Guest: Dr. Jeremiah J. Johnston, PCA Dean of Students and Prestonwood Baptist Church Pastor of Apologetics
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
When we recorded this episode, it was scheduled to be released as the 200th episode for The Journey Parent Podcast! Thank you to all who have listened, watched, and supported our podcast. Now would be a great time to share The Journey with a friend as well as to like and subscribe, if you haven't already!
Always a pleasure to sit down and catch up with Dr. Jeremiah Johnston. He has been very busy recently talking about the newly discovered evidence relating to the Shroud of Turin - and this evidence has convinced Dr. Johnston that this was, indeed, the burial covering of Jesus Christ! The Lord has opened up numerous interesting opportunities for Dr. Johnston to talk about the Shroud, and also to share about the resurrection of Jesus, and the historical facts that demonstrate that Jesus existed, lived, died…and was raised to life again!
Dr. Johnston is also getting ready to host PCA’s annual Biblical Worldview Conference Sept. 28-30. Schools from out of state and individuals by the thousands will be joining our PCA students for this incredible worldview conference - parents, you should make plans to attend now as well - you don’t want to miss any of these incredible speakers and the topics they’ll be addressing!
Guest: Karol Ladd, author, speaker, and involved grandparent - check out Karol’s latest blog articles on the power of positive grandparenting
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
The world tells grandparents one of two untruths…first, that because they are older, they are insignificant; and second, now is their time to retire and take care of their own needs and desires. The Bible paints a much different picture for grandparents. Proverbs 16:31 says, “Gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained in a righteous life.” That “crown of glory” is to be respected and honored and the wisdom that comes with age should be considered valuable. This proper perspective or grandparenting is shared in Dr. Josh Mulvihill’s outstanding book titled Grand Parenting: Strengthening Your Family and Passing on Your Faith, which is one of the eight books in the Grandparenting Matters series.
Last week was Grandparents Day for the PCA North campus, and this Friday, September 19th is Grandparents Day for the Plano campus. We hope that all grandparents are able to attend and we want to get connected with each grandparent who wants to be equipped to be a strong spiritual influence in their family and the community!
How to Find Hope in Tragedy
Guests: Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent, PCA System of Schools, and Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Students, PCA, and Pastor of Cultural Apologetics, Prestonwood Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents are having to navigate some very difficult conversations with their children following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Turning Point USA Founder and Executive Director. When tragedy hits, how can we as parents first guard the hearts and minds of our children, then guide them through dark and difficult times, and finally ground them in the Word of God as their source of strength and hope? This conversation with Dr. Jeremiah Johnston and Dr. Mike Goddard will address those practical concerns as well as encourage you to follow after the example of Charlie Kirk and stand up for your faith in Jesus Christ in a world that desperately needs more voices of truth and hope.
Dr. Johnston mentioned in the podcast that Charlie Kirk was hoping to be a surprise guest speaker at this year’s Biblical Worldview Conference. To continue his legacy, consider attending (or watch via livestream) the conference and equip yourself to stand and make a difference for the cause of Christ!
Guest: Julie Zarycki, Prestonwood Christian Academy North teacher and grandparent
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Julie Zrycki started her educational career in the public school system, then made the transition to Christian education and recently came on staff at PCA North. During her time in the public schools, Julie was a light of God’s goodness and grace, but standing on biblical principles and truth in the public arena is becoming increasingly difficult. In fact, recently the State of California passed a law banning teachers from telling parents when a student makes a decision to transition from one gender to another - check out this article to read more about this law. Several Christian teachers have sued the state saying the law violates their First Amendment protections and the wellbeing of students and their parents.
Julie’s heart for the Lord and her desire to share His love and truth with her students is evident and contagious. And Julie is more than a PCA North teacher, she’s a PCA North grandparent as well! Listen as Julie shares her journey with the Lord in the educational world.
Guests: Brian Aulenbach, Senior Director of Development, and Kenzie Venus, Director of Development Events
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What is the PCA Fund? Doesn’t my tuition cover everything that PCA needs? Why are we being asked to participate in North Texas Giving Day - is that even a PCA-sponsored event? What is this new “Fun Run” and how can I sign up to participate? Brian and Kenzie answer all of these questions as well as give reasons how the generous PCA community continues to support and allow PCA to build not only the best Kingdom Education environment for students today, but also for building for the future as well. To give to PCA as part of NTGD, visit this site. Go here to sign up for the Fun Run.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
In this episode, you will have the opportunity to hear from Justin McAdams and Eric Leininger, both serving their respective campuses as Director of Spiritual Development, as well as from several students who are sharing their thoughts and reflections about US Retreat. Please make sure you check out the Panetti Parcel Post that is sent out in the weekly PCA Connection email for additional resources to enhance your own personal spiritual journey.
Guest: Jon Noyes, Stand to Reason - Speaker for PCA’s Biblical Worldview Conference, September 28-30, 2025
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Loved chatting with Jon Noyes from Stand to Reason about the importance of developing a Biblical worldview and his personal journey to faith in Jesus Christ. Hope you enjoy the conversation with Jon…also, make plans to attend the BWC and like and share this podcast with others!
Guest: Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent of Prestonwood Christian Academy System of Schools
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
John 14:6 - Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Parents, we would love for you to like, share, and subscribe to our weekly podcast available on most podcast platforms and as a video on YouTube. We love keeping you informed on what is happening at PCA and how you can better equip your family as we partner together to train the next generation in godliness (1 Tim. 4:8).
Guests: Julie West and Vinny Tellini
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Straight from the research at Johns Hopkins Medicine, there is an essential connection between a person’s “gut health” and their “mental health.” So what you eat directly affects how you feel - your mood, energy levels, and emotional wellbeing. Which is why the Sage Dining program at PCA Plano Campus is so much more than just nutritious and delicious food, it’s fuel for our bodies so that we can do the work that God has called us to do!
Parents, check out the Sage Dining app called Touch of SAGE to find out more about the food selections and what is available each week for your students. You can also use this app to find out about what foods best meet the needs and dietary restrictions of your students as well as share feedback with Sage Dining.
Guests: Gabe Boyd, Justin McAdams, and Eric Leininger
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, this is our final week of the deeper dive into the issues raised by the popular Netflix series “Adolescence.” This week we discuss the power of various cultural influences, including social media, in the lives of our children and families. We will be taking a short break for the month of July and return with new episodes beginning in August - enjoy the rest of your summer!
Huge shout-out to good friends Gabe Boyd and Justin McAdams from the PCA North campus as well as Eric Leininger, the new Director of Spiritual Development for PCA’s Plano campus for watching this series, digesting the information, and sharing some wisdom from a Biblical perspective on these important conversations!
Guests: Gabe Boyd, Justin McAdams, and Eric Leininger
NOTICE: my mistake, this episode SHOULD HAVE been released as our FIRST in the series of three, but I released Masculinity first...and now the one on parenting - that was my mistake, please forgive me.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, this is our second week of the deeper dive into the issues raised by the popular Netflix series “Adolescence.” This week we discuss the topic of parenting, and for the final week we will discuss cultural influences including social media.
Huge shout-out to good friends Gabe Boyd and Justin McAdams from the PCA North campus as well as Eric Leininger, the new Director of Spiritual Development for PCA’s Plano campus for watching this series, digesting the information, and sharing some wisdom from a Biblical perspective on these important conversations!
Guests: Gabe Boyd, Justin McAdams, and Eric Leininger
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, we are taking a deeper dive into the issues raised by the popular Netflix series “Adolescence.” This week we discuss the topic of masculinity, next week we will look at the issue of parenting, and for the final week we will discuss cultural influences including social media.
Huge shout-out to good friends Gabe Boyd and Justin McAdams from the PCA North campus as well as Eric Leininger, the new Director of Spiritual Development for PCA’s Plano campus for watching this series, digesting the information, and sharing some wisdom from a Biblical perspective on these important conversations!
Guests: Coach Vic Shealy, Chief of Staff, and Dr. Houn Hib, Head of School, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Like many young men, Houn Hib was greatly influenced by the faith and leadership of Coach Vic Shealy. Years later, God would reunite that relationship here at PCA as Coach Shealy is now moving into the newly created Chief of Staff position and his former quarterback turned wide receiver comes to PCA as the new Head of School for the Plano campus. Take a listen to the heart behind these men, the friendship that was forged on the gridiron, and the excitement of these two mighty men of valor getting to lock arms together again to advance Kingdom Education at Prestonwood Christian Academy!
Guest: Natasha Crain
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We are excited that Christian author and apologist Natasha Crain will be joining us for our 2025 Biblical Worldview Conference (BWC) September 28-30 - make sure you register today for this outstanding event! Natasha shares in this podcast about the importance of parents to be armed with the truth of God’s Word as they equip their students for the world around them. Check out Natasha’s website to learn more about her and her ministry as well as her outstanding books for your family, including her latest book When Culture Hates You: Preserving for the Common Good as Christians in a Hostile Public Square.
Guest: Dan Panetti, Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry, PCA Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
If you’ve heard my story, you know that my wife Tricia and I were huge public school advocates - Tricia was teaching in PISD and we wanted to be “salt and light” in the public school system. God had different plans for our family. Twenty-two years ago, I started volunteering at PCA helping out with the Student Leadership Institute (SLI) and then a couple years later, I started a new role as the Worldview Director for PCA. After fifteen years of legal and public policy in the nonprofit world, we had no concept of what the private Christian school was or how we could afford to send four kids to PCA - but God knew, so we trusted Him.
Now as we look back at those 20 years at PCA, we are amazed how God provided over and over again, more than we could ask or imagine - our fourth child, Campbell, is graduating from PCA and the blessings from our time at PCA and the friends and community we’ve done life with has been remarkable! I hope you enjoy some personal and professional reflections and are encouraged that God has you here at PCA for His purposes - so enjoy the ride, it goes by way too fast!
Guest: Ruslan KD
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Born Ruslan Karaoglanov to Armenian parents in Baku, Azerbaijan, Ruslan was a child when he immigrated with his family to the United States in 19900 to escape religious persecution after an ethnic conflict broke out in the wake of tensions between the dissolving Soviet Union and the Azerbaijan government. Ruslan broke on the scene as a rapper and YouTube vlogger and now is popular with young people as a YouTube sensation apologist sharing his faith in Christ and taking on all questions and opposition to the Gospel! His book Godly Ambition: Unlocking the Full Potential of Your Time, Talent, and Treasure will be available September 9, 2025 and Ruslan will be a featured speaker at the 2025 Biblical Worldview Conference (BWC) coming to Prestonwood Baptist Church September 28-30, 2025
Guests: Gabe Boyd and Justin McAdams
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Important overview discussion about the Netflix series “Adolescence” that deals with the cultural issues of masculinity, parenting, violence, social media, pornography, education, and loneliness. We plan to dive deeper into each of these components for our summer series - so make sure that you come back to watch/listen to our future podcasts. Also, please like and share these episodes with friends and family who need to hear a Biblical perspective on these cultural issues.
Guest: Erin Williams, PCA US Counselor, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is a continuation of our powerful discussion on the book Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren’t Growing Up, which is the 2024 book from Abigail Shrier and came as a result of her revealing book a few years before that called Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters (2021) in which Shrier discovered how damaging and controlling public school counselors could be on this gender ideology. If you didn’t listen to the first week, I would strongly recommend that you go back and listen or watch that episode.
Just to reiterate a point that we both made in the podcast, this examination of Bad Therapy is NOT a recommendation in favor of reading the book or an endorsement of everything that is written in this book. Shrier is not writing from a Biblical worldview, however both Erin Williams and I share much of her concern with the new “therapeutic-infused parenting” that is so popular today and her concerns over what Shrier calls “bad” therapy. There is good, solid, helpful therapy that is happening, but Shrier’s call to parents is to pay attention to the therapy that their children are receiving and be discerning as to the wisdom that is being offered to your children. YOU are the parents and, as such, are God’s ordained stewards of your children…not the therapist, not the school, not the government.
Guest: Erin Williams, PCA US Counselor, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We had a powerful discussion on the book Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren’t Growing Up, which is the 2024 book from Abigail Shrier and came as a result of her revealing book a few years before that called Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters (2021) in which Shrier discovered how damaging and controlling public school counselors could be on this gender ideology. The conversation with Erin Williams is spread out over two weeks, so listen to this week’s episode and then get ready for even more next week on this topic!
Just to reiterate a point that we both made in the podcast, this examination of Bad Therapy is NOT a recommendation in favor of reading the book or an endorsement of everything that is written in this book. Shrier is not writing from a Biblical worldview, however both Erin Williams and I share much of her concern with the new “therapeutic-infused parenting” that is so popular today and her concerns over what Shrier calls “bad” therapy. There is good, solid, helpful therapy that is happening, but Shrier’s call to parents is to pay attention to the therapy that their children are receiving and be discerning as to the wisdom that is being offered to your children. YOU are the parents and, as such, are God’s ordained stewards of your children…not the therapist, not the school, not the government.
Guest: Alycia Wood, Apologetics, Inc.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Loved chatting with Alycia Wood about life and how to navigate the current cultural chaos with the truth of God’s Word. Alycia reminded us that we can use just about anything - movies, music, etc. to engage in meaningful conversations about spiritual and eternal things. C.S. Lewis in The Weight of Glory wrote about how “[t]here are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.” This is a great reminder that everyone we meet is an eternal being - and will spend an eternity either with God…or separated from God.
As we near Easter, let’s remember the significance of Jesus coming down to earth to live the perfect life that we couldn’t, die the death that we deserve, and then he rose from the grave to defeat sin and death! With so much hopelessness in the world, 1 Peter 3:15 is a great reminder that we, as followers of Jesus Christ, need to be prepared to defend the HOPE that we have in Christ!
Guest: Jan Jeffcoat, PCA LS Principal, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We had a great conversation with Jan Jeffcoat, PCA’s Lower School Principal, about her family’s journey to PCA and how God provided through the generosity of PCA families who financially supported PCA’s Sponsor-A-Lion program to help families afford Kingdom Education at PCA. As God called the Jeffcoats to PCA, countless families gave sacrificially which provided the necessary funds so their daughters Jennifer and Jillian could attend PCA. At the same time, Jim and Jan reexamined their own personal finances and found additional ways to better steward their finances to help make the transition to PCA possible.
And look at the result - both girls not only graduated from PCA, but Jan and Jillian returned to PCA and have been employed by the school. Jillian (formerly Jeffcoat, now Bryant) is the Dean of Students for the Upper School at the Plano campus. And Jan Jeffcoat went from a PreK aide to a Lower School teacher and now currently serves as the principal for the Lower School at the Plano campus. Thank you to all those families who have given in the past and continue to support PCA’s Sponsor-A-Lion program that benefits current and future PCA families.
Guests: Eddie Jimenez (PCA Band Director, Plano campus), Eli Taylor (Class of ‘25, Plano campus), Tatum Samuels (Class of ‘25, Plano campus), Harper Glenn (Class of ‘27, North campus), David Madison (Class of ‘25, Plano campus), Shay Planas (Class of ‘26, Plano campus), Kaylee Smith (Class of ‘27, Plano campus)
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
In this episode, we have an opportunity to hear PCA faculty and students share some amazing stories of God at work in and through their lives from local missions to locations around the world! Minimester is a unique and amazing opportunity for our entire community to be used by and see God at work - and, what I’ve witnessed over the past 20+ years, it is amazing to see how God uses these incredible opportunities to deepen (or begin) the faith journey of our students!
Guest: Linda Paulk, President & CEO, Sky Ranch Christian camps
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What a great conversation with Linda Paulk, President & CEO of Sky Ranch Christian camps - we talked about everything - their summer overnight camps and day camps, their family camps, their leadership training programs, their parent/child weekend get-aways, and much, much more! With locations in TX, OK, and CO, Sky Ranch is a ministry force training kids and families with a Biblical worldview and doing it with excellence for 70 years! PCA is so proud to be a ministry partner with Sky Ranch and we look forward to continuing this fruitful partnership for years to come!
Guest: Kenzie Venus, Director of Development Events and Annual Funds
For questions about the Zig, you can email Kenzie at KVenus@prestonwoodchristian.org
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, this year “The ZIG” (the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Awards Banquet) will be at The Gaylord Texas on Sunday evening, April 27th. This venue is different from the past few years, so we wanted to make sure that you knew everything about where/when/why so that you can make plans now to attend. While the location is different, the purpose of the evening is the same - to raise resources that go to help families with financial needs - I know you agree with me that everyone should have access to a Christ-centered education for their children and over the years, our PCA community has been tremendously generous giving to help others attend PCA.
So, take a listen - make sure you know where you’re doing, when to be there, WHAT to wear (yes, it’s “evening wear” this year - suit/tie for the guys, elegant and stylish for the ladies). Look to park in The Gaylord Resort and Convention Center CONVENTION parking (not the hotel) - and there will be valet and garage parking available.
NOW is the time to purchase a table and invite friends who can support this incredible mission. Visit zigziglaraward.org to learn more and secure your table.
Guest: Ryan Bangert, Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives & Special Counsel to the President for Alliance Defending Freedom
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Updates on a few important Free Speech/Freedom of Religion cases:
- Adam Smith-Connor, UK case dealing with an Army veteran who was arrested for a silent prayer offered outside an abortion facility. The charges are certainly absurd, but it does demonstrate the lengths to which the government can go and will go to protect abortion rights. Vice President J.D. Vance mentioned this case in his comments a few weeks ago talking about the importance of defending free speech rights.
- Jack Phillips, Colorado baker sued for refusing to bake a cake for a same-sex wedding recently had a major victory at the Colorado Supreme Court following his third lawsuit to try and force him to violate his conscience, this time it was to try to force him to bake a cake for a gender transition.
- This article in the New York Post from 2023 revealed that thousands of public schools actually have a policy in place to keep a student’s gender transition a secret from parents. ADF has filed several cases against these school districts on behalf of parents who have a right to know about their child.
- To keep up with these and other important issues, visit Alliance Defending Freedom’s website at adflegal.org
- Ryan recommends that you pray for the strength and integrity of the church to continue to stand on God’s Word as the Truth and not compromise on these critical issues.
Guests: Carter Morris, President & CEO, and Drew Herndon, Distribution and Services Manager for GraceBridge
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
It is a privilege to let you know about the incredible work of GraceBridge and The Master Cares, two organizations dedicated to the ministry of the Gospel by serving the needs of their communities - as they say on their website: two missions, one vision. Here in the North Texas area, you’ll see GraceBridge serve with food banks and resale stores as well as a variety of work and employment training programs. The Master Cares is an international program based in Uganda, Africa and includes an ACSI-accredited Christian school, vocational training, medical services and water wells.
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA US Counselor, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is week two of a great conversation with Erin Williams about the book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic - and What We Can Do About It by Jennifer Breheny Wallace. This book is a New York Times bestseller, but remember that it is written from the perspective of someone without a Biblical worldview. Wallace does raise some very profound and provocative questions that need to be answered, especially when the research says that 1 in 3 students may be impacted by what Wallace calls the “excessive pressure to achieve.”
Praying that you find this conversation insightful and practical. It is broken down into two episodes - the first episode was released last week.
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA US Counselor, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Great conversation with Erin Williams about the book Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic - and What We Can Do About It by Jennifer Breheny Wallace. This book is a New York Times bestseller, but remember that it is written from the perspective of someone without a Biblical worldview. Wallace does raise some very profound and provocative questions that need to be answered, especially when the research says that 1 in 3 students may be impacted by what Wallace calls the “excessive pressure to achieve.”
Praying that you find this conversation insightful and practical. It is broken down into two episodes over this week and next.
Guest: Dr. O.S. Hawkins, PhD, Chancellor, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, President Emeritus, GuideStone Financial Resources.
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
To learn more about Dr. Hawkins, you can visit his website at OSHawkins.com
What an honor to sit down to record with Dr. O.S. Hawkins, the 2025 Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award recipient. Pastor and author of more than 50 books, Dr. Hawkins has been serving the Lord in a variety of capacities for years. The proceeds and royalties from his books in the “Code Series” benefit Mission: Dignity, a ministry of GuideStone started under Hawkins’ tenure that assists retired ministers and their widows who are in need.
The Zig Ziglar banquet is coming up Sunday, April 27th and will be located at the Gaylord Resort and Convention Center in Grapevine, TX. Art reception opens at 5:00 pm and the dinner begins at 6:00 pm. Attire for the evening is “evening wear.”
Guest: The Honorable Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We had the opportunity to sit down and catch up with State Representative Matt Shaheen after he returned from the oral arguments at the Supreme Court on his bill (HB 1181) that requires age verification to prevent minors from accessing inappropriate material on the Internet. The case involves some complex issues including digital privacy rights, states’ rights, the protection of minors, and the regulation of online content. To learn more about this bill and the Supreme Court case please read the Texas Policy Research article as well as the press release from the Texas Attorney General’s office on the Free Speech Coalition v. Paxton case.
We also discussed several major initiatives that will be addressed and debated in the 2025 Texas Legislative Session including school choice (ESA, Educational Savings Accounts), gambling, gender ideology, and pro-life issues.
Guests: Sevyn Trogdon, Emerson Seal, and Elizabeth Teague, PCA sophomores at the Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
In this episode, we spend a little time talking about their journey toward wisdom during their sophomore year at PCA and the events and activities that help keep them on the right track! The girls talk about activities like Freedom Weekend, the Texas Stomp, Minimester, the Zig Ziglar Servant Award banquet, and their journey with their academics and athletics. The girls are also excited about some of the upcoming opportunities like Beach Camp (June 8-13) and the Choir Mission Trip to the United Kingdom. So many outstanding resources, activities, and events to help students grow in their faith journey and their love for Jesus Christ!
Guest: Amanda Henderson, LS Counselor
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Enjoy this conversation with Amanda Henderson as we contemplate the future of learning and education. Mrs. Henderson is a favorite of students and faculty alike in the Lower School with her warmth and gentleness coupled with her stuffed animal puppets that provide a sense of security and humor. Mrs. Henderson is optimistic about the future of learning because she is confident that God is on His throne and in control - so no matter what the future holds, AI, VR, etc, she knows in whose hands the future lies.
Guest: Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer for PCA
Re-enrollment opens January 15th and goes through the 31st for existing PCA families in good standing. After that time, available spots will be made available to students and families not currently enrolled at PCA for the following year.
The small percentage increase in tuition is passed on to support the pay increase for PCA’s incredible faculty and staff as tuition accounts for around 70% of the entire PCA budget. Also, parents please take the time to fill out the re-enrollment questionnaire as your responses help PCA address areas of concern to our parents.
Shout out to Holly Hamilton who is the new voice for The Journey’s intro and outro! Go Holly!
If you have any questions about re-enrollment as a current PCA family or wish to learn more about enrolling your child(ren) at PCA in the future, please contact Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at 972-930-4007 or via email at agray@prestonwoodchristian.org
Guests: Jason Spodnik, President and Head of School, Cuyahoga Valley Christian Academy (Cuyahoga Falls, OH)
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, here is some wisdom from a guy who has been in the private Christian education world for many years:
- There is so much to learn, so don’t let pride get in the way as we look to steward the incredible gifts of our children for the greatest good of advancing the Kingdom!
- Parenting by Paul David Tripp is a great reminder that God fashions Himself as a parent so He can not only relate to us as parents, but He models the way for us in this amazing endeavor!
- God used Christian education to move Jason from Christianity as a religion to a relationship - such an incredible journey!
- More is “caught” than “taught” - how we interact with students is even more important than what we are “teaching” them in terms of curriculum - students will learn from how you say things, not just what you say…
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Amy Petrof, Kristin Dysart, and Gabe Boyd
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We hope you enjoy this fun conversation with some PCA parents about their holiday traditions as they desire to keep Christ in the middle of Christmas!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. J’Aime Balogh, Jenitta Eskew, and Nena Graham
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Executive Functioning - are all of the cognitive skills necessary to regulate your thinking, feelings/emotions, and behaviors to reach a goal.
Executive Functioning skills are necessary for all of the other cognitive functions - these are the primary functions that make up what we call “executive functioning”:
- Memory
- Attention
- Motor Skills
- Verbalizing
- Visualizing
- Completing Learning Tasks
Executive functioning skills include
- Task initiation - starting and stopping tasks
- Response inhibition - keeping yourself from responding impulsively
- Focus - how to stay on task and not get distracted
- Time management - planning good use of your time and avoiding procrastination
- Working memory - holding information in your mind long enough to do something with it
- Flexibility - being able to shift ideas and plans
- Self-regulation - being able to reflect on your actions and make changes
- Emotional self-control - managing your emotions and reflecting on your emotions
- Task completion - sustaining levels of task and attention to complete a task
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Stephen Bryant, Chris Housewright, Mike Thornberry
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
First of all, just a reminder that Gladiator II is Rated R, which means that you’ll want to proceed with caution - a great place to learn more about why movies receive their ratings is either PluggedInOnline (from Focus on the Family) or MovieGuide.
Next, it is wise to look for “lessons” from every source to use as teachable moments with your children so that they are not just “consumers” of entertainment, but are able to watch and listen with discernment. What messages are being extolled, what virtues are being promoted, and are these good, right, and true?
Watch or listen to our conversation about Gladiator II to learn more about some of the things that we took away from the movie - and leave some comments on our YouTube page about what you learned as well.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Amy Petrof, Kristin Dysart, and Gabe Boyd
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, you'll want to get this valuable resource that will equip you to have meaningful and age appropriate conversations with your children on a variety of important topics including human dignity, abortion, homosexuality, transgenderism, technology, and politics. Authors Andrew Walker and his wife Christian do a great job of presenting a brief, but very informative, overview on these issues then give you some general biblical principles that you can introduce to your children depending on this age and maturity level - as they mature, the depth and complexity of the information you supply as well as the questions that you ask increases to match.
Two important reminders after reading this book and having a wonderful conversation with Amy Petrof, Kristin Dysart, and Gabe Boyd - first, you want to make sure that you’re raising your children to see you as the “expert” on cultural issues - not because you are the first to introduce the subject to them or because you know all the latest information and lingo, but because you resource God’s Word as The Source of Truth on all issues - you need to know God’s Word and ground your conversations with your children in Scripture. Second, this book isn’t about gaining information so that you can win arguments and look smart, it’s about being able to present truth in a loving and winsome manner to those who are lost and hurting in need of God’s mercy and grace. Remember that as you engage with others on these controversial topics - the goal is to win people to Christ, not to your opinion.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Audrey Letcher, Chandler McGaha, Landon Murphy, and Campbell Panetti
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What makes PCA so special? Listen to four “lifers” (seniors who have been at PCA since Kindergarten, and before!) talk about their incredible years at PCA - from Kindergarten Circus to Boosterthon Fun Run, Let George Do It to HOCO and Minimester and AP classes! But PCA is more than just academics, it’s about relationships - with each other as brothers and sisters in Christ and with some really incredible faculty and staff who have poured truth into these students as they did life together at PCA. What a blessing each student is at PCA - these four seniors represent hundreds of others who have walked the halls of PCA as they have been equipped for their Kingdom calling.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA Upper School Counselor, Plano campus
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Many of us were raised to ignore or stuff our emotions, but research today suggests that we learn how to better identify our emotions so that we can learn from them. We “name” them so that we can “tame” them - and not be prisoners of our own feelings.
In her book Untangle Your Emotions: Naming What You Feel and Knowing What to Do About It, author Jennie Allen encourages you to engage in meaningful conversations with others about your feelings - and when you’re listening to others, don’t just look to fix their problems, but really allow them to feel how they are feeling.
We shouldn’t be ashamed or afraid of our feelings - but we also don’t need to allow our feelings to be the engine that drives our lives. Learning more about our emotions will help us learn more about ourselves, how God has designed us, and how we are to respond to the world around us in a way that honors God.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Ron Kelley, Sharayah Colter, Audrey Sol Loyola, Scott Turner
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
What were the top issues that voters identified as important as they went to the polls and what can we learn from those issues and the outcome of the election? Listen to this informative and fast-paced conversation with several informed friends about how we, as Christians, should be thinking about the days ahead now that the election is behind us.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Scott and Sharayah Colter, The Danbury Institute: A Coalition for Life and Liberty
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This is the second of a two-week conversation with Scott and Sharayah Colter, founders of The Danbury Institute. This week we examine several of the current cultural issues, many of which have become important political issues as well. The Bible gives clear and effective principles that can be used as a frame/matrix by which to properly understand and evaluate these current cultural issues - which makes it imperative that we know our Bibles as we seek to understand our culture and speak truth and wisdom on the issues of our day!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Scott and Sharayah Colter, The Danbury Institute: A Coalition for Life and Liberty
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This will be a two-week conversation with Scott and Sharayah Colter, founders of The Danbury Institute. Week one will be a conversation about America’s Godly heritage - the influence of God’s Word on the Framers and the ideas that led to our Constitutional Republic. I asked Scott and Sharayah for additional resources that they would recommend for those wanting to take a deeper dive into this topic and they recommended resources from the following:
Hillsdale College - which offers free online classes on the Constitution, Marxism/Socialism/Communism, American heritage, etc.
WallBuilders - David Barton and his son Tim have some outstanding resources including America’s Godly Heritage (book, CD, or DVD) and The American Story series.
Sharayah also encourages you to read the words of the Framers - George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, John Jay, Alexander Hamilton, and many others - go online and read some of their letters and speeches and learn more about this incredible period of world history from those who were there. I would also recommend reading The Federalist Papers, written by Hamilton, Jay, and Madison as well as the original text of the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Scott Turner, Associate Pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church, former NFL player
Reminder that early voting here in Texas begins October 21st and goes through November 1st and the General Election is Tuesday, November 5th.
Voting is a very important and special honor as citizens of this country - and as citizens of heaven we should engage in all aspects seeking first the Kingdom of God and to glorify Him in all that we say and do - which means that we must both carry ourselves in a way that is civil and honorable while at the same time stand for what is right, true, and good!
A couple of great resources you need to take into consideration are the following:
- The Law by Frederick Bastiat - a great account on the tension between government supplying the needs of people vs. people (the church, individuals) meeting the needs of others
- Speaker of the House Mike Johnson’s 7 Core Principles of Conservativism - you need to know where you stand on these principles…and why.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Scott Turner, Associate Pastor at Prestonwood Baptist Church, former NFL player
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Loved our time with Scott Turner learning how God used his early humble beginnings to teach him the value of hard work and serving others well. Enjoy this episode with Scott listening to him share how God orchestrated so many people, places, and things in his life to draw Scott closer and to deepen Scott’s faith journey.
And, the good news is that at the end of this episode, there is more to come next week as we continue this conversation with Scott Turner and turn our attention to the importance of living out our faith in the political arena.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Pastor Jack Graham, Prestonwood Baptist Church
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Twenty-seven years ago, Prestonwood was approached about allowing a new private, Christian school to use the Prestonwood name. About three years after PCA was launched, the school was struggling financially and might not have survived if the church hadn’t stepped in to support and really adopt the school as their own!
Pastor Graham is also releasing a new book on November 5th called The Jesus Story - you can pre-order your copy on Amazon!
Pastor Graham also shared some thoughts on the upcoming election and encouraged people to register to vote and vote biblical values at the ballot box!
Finally, Pastor Graham shared some thoughts and perspectives about being a grandparent today and how special this opportunity is to live a legacy and pass on one’s faith from generation to generation. One great resource as an encouragement to grandparents is the latest book from Robert Wohlgemuth called Gun Lap: Staying in the Race with Purpose.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests in order: Reid Thornberry (PCA North senior), Steve Lee (11th grade Bible and Apologetics teacher, Plano campus), Hayden Fox (PCA Plano junior), Fabian Chong (11th and 12th grade physics teacher, Plano campus), Noelle Brenning (11th grade, Plano campus), Audrey Sol Loyola (2015 alumni), Freddy Gattelaro (2019 alumni), and Parker Panetti (2019 alumni), Kristen Smith (PCA Plano senior), Nami Adenle (PCA Plano senior), Sam Hitchcock (Director of Spiritual Formation, Oklahoma Christian School), Madi Franquiz (MS Breakout Session), Noah Brierley (Mainstage and Breakout Speaker), Coleman Bales (PCA North senior), Tim Barnett (Mainstage Speaker)
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
We interviewed a variety of students and adults to share their thoughts and perspectives from the Biblical Worldview Conference - who were their favorite speakers, most influential topics addressed, and their favorite breakout sessions - as well as what they learned and how they plan to put these truths into practice in their own lives.
The Biblical Worldview Conference (BWC) was a resounding success with incredible speakers who talked about everything from TikTok evangelism to the reliability of the Gospels! Both the Plano and North campuses sent MS and US students to join 44 other Christian schools and over 4,000 registrants for this year’s conference. If you somehow missed this year’s BWC, you can look to purchase the entire conference - all mainstage and breakout sessions at prestonwoodworldview.org
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Allen Parr, host of The Beat, and Jordan Sekulow, Executive Director for the American Center for Law and Justice
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Allen Parr and Jordan Sekulow join nearly a dozen other outstanding speakers, authors, and apologists, at the 2024 Biblical Worldview Conference held at Prestonwood Baptist Church September 22-24. To register visit prestonwoodworldview.org and don’t forget that the parent code for $10 off your registration is PCAParent24.
To watch and listen to Allen Parr, visit his YouTube page The Beat.
To connect with and learn more about the work of Jordan Sekulow, visit the website for the American Center for Law and Justice (ACLJ).
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dan Panetti, PCA Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry (interviewed by PCA sophomore Sevyn Trogdon)
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, we are celebrating 20 years of Biblical worldview training and transformation with this year’s Biblical Worldview Conference! From humble beginnings, the BWC has grown into the world’s largest and leading Biblical worldview conference for students. In this episode you’ll learn more about how the conference began and some interesting behind-the-scenes stories. But more than just the history and significance of BWC, this podcast will hopefully inspire you to attend this year’s conference in person or via the live stream option. To learn more about this year’s BWC and to register, check out the Biblical Worldview Conference - dates this year are September 22nd - 24th. And don’t forget that the parent code for $10 off your registration is PCAParent24.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Megan Rogers, PCA Senior Director of Development & Stewardship, and Kenzie Venus, Director of Development Events
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
North Texas Giving Day (NTGD) has begun! From now until September 19, you can give to the PCA Fund that helps provide that margin of excellence funding specific projects that make our school even better! Funds designated for the North Campus will be used for North Campus projects and funds designated for the Plano Campus will be used for Plano Campus projects. The goals for the two campuses are as follows:
- North Campus - goal of $80K, with a stretch goal of $100K
- Plano Campus - goal of $553K, with a stretch goal of $700K
To donate, visit the NTGD/PCA page and make a donation - make sure you put what campus you’re on and what grades your children are in.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Maddie McDonald (PCA Plano senior), Kellen O’Brien (PCA Plano junior), Naomi Livings (PCA Plano sophomore), Madison Kirby-Birdwell (PCA Plano freshman), and Ryan Newsome, PCA Plano Spiritual Development Director
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Both the North and Plano campuses took their US students on retreat to Sky Ranch this past week. We had the opportunity to sit down with students from the Plano campus at their retreat as well as with the new Director of Spiritual Development Ryan Newsome to record some comments about why they felt a spiritual retreat was an important component of the PCA DNA and why, as students, they felt like this time away from school and with their classmates was essential to building community and meaningful relationships.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Stephen Bryant (PCA dad, coach, SLi Director), Mike Thornberry (PCA North dad), Aaron Ulmer (PCA alumni, Class of 2007), Chris Housewright (PCA dad)
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
The Forge is the latest movie from the incredible Christian movie producers the Kendrick Brothers (Alex, Stephen, and Shannon), who brought Facing the Giants, Fireproof, Courageous, and War Room to the big screens. This new movie is about the process of making a man - and it’s a powerful story of prayer, forgiveness, redemption, and salvation!
The Forge opens in theaters across the country on Friday, August 23, 2024.
In the movie, Joshua Moore (older man, business owner) asks a younger Isaiah some important questions that cause Isaiah to pause and evaluate his life and future - here are those questions:
- 5 years from now, where do you want to be?
- What ways do you want to grow in the next year?
- What kind of man do you want to be?
- What do you want people to think when they see you coming?
The Forge isn’t a “self-help” movie about making better decisions - Isaiah surrenders his life to Christ and as he begins to follow Jesus, his life and decisions are radically changed! The Forge also highlights the importance of walking in community - surrounded by others to hold us accountable and encourage us on our journey!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Mike Goddard, PCA Superintendent
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
This year’s theme comes out of the Book of Joshua, specifically Joshua 1:9, which reads:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
As Joshua was standing at the precipice of something new, exciting, and definitely nerve-racking, God reminded him to be strong and courageous. What new adventure lies in front of you and your family this year - what is God doing in and through your life that you’ll need to rely on Him and His strength to make it through?
Remember that great trials and tribulations produce great faith in a great God. J.K. Gressett is credited with saying, “God prepares great men for great tasks by great trials.”
The Book of Joshua begins with this charge to “be strong and courageous” and ends with Joshua reminding the nation of Israel that “as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Parents, you have a choice to make this year - whom will you serve - the gods of our age (convenience, comfort, competition) or the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob?
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Jillian Bryant, Plano US Dean of Students, and Erin Williams, Plano US Counselor
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
PCA’s New “Internet Enabled Device” Policy
- Basically, PCA is going to be a “cell phone free” environment
- Much of the rationale for this decision is encapsulated in the research presented in Jonathan Haidt’s latest book The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
- Haidt writes about four foundational harms from a phone-based childhood:
- Social deprivation
- Sleep deprivation
- Attention fragmentation
- Addiction
- Haidt also gives four foundational reforms:
- No smartphones before high school
- No social media before age 16
- Phone-free schools
- Bring unstructured “play” back for children
- Haidt writes about four foundational harms from a phone-based childhood:
If you would like to review more of Haidt’s research, check out The Anxious Generation Research Website that goes beyond the book.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Jillian Bryant, Plano US Dean of Students, and Erin Williams, Plano US Counselor
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Dress code
- Greater emphasis on enforcement and understanding
Modesty
- Five Lies book by Rosaria Butterfield:
- A godly woman is a modest woman.
- A modest woman does not bring attention to herself but instead gives glory to God.
- In Modesty: More than a Change of Clothes, Martha Peace and Kent Keller define modesty as “an inner beauty of the heart motivated by a love for God that seeks His glory through purity and humility; it often reveals itself in words, actions, expressions, and clothes.”
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Julie West, Senior Food Services Director, and Vinny Tellini, Executive Chef, with Sage Dining Services
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Both Chef Julie West and Chef Vinny Tellini are “seasoned” veterans making the dining experience for PCA students something wonderful! Sage desires to be part of the PCA community - a meal is a chance to connect with others and Sage does a great job of making the food service at PCA special, unique, healthy, and delicious!
Sage takes into account the variety of allergies that students might be sensitive to as well as what are the favorites for the students. The menus are planned with great care taking into consideration what is best for the students and what the students will enjoy. As a parent, you can see what is available for your students on the Touch of Sage app - you can see the weekly menu, you can rate specific menu items, you can filter based on allergies, and you can contact Chef Julie or Chef Vinny to share your thoughts, compliments, or concerns.
If you would like to email Chef Julie West directly, her email address is JWest@sagedining.com. Parents, you are also always welcome to purchase a lunch pass and go eat with your child. Please see Susan at the LS front desk or Sarah at the MS/US front desk for more information.
Remember when your child says that they “don’t like” something - make sure you encourage them to try it first before they decide that they don’t like it!
At this time, the Sage dining experience is only available at the Plano campus, but consideration is being given to adding Sage dining to the North campus when time and space permit.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Anna May, Sharayah Colter, Marchelle Michel
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Some Resource Recommendations for Parents:
- Godly people! You need to get plugged into a solid, Christ-centered, Bible-teaching church and “LifeGroup” filled with individuals who are doing life looking to know God and make Him known - and do life together with them!
- God’s Word! Before you dive into other outstanding resources, you need to dive into God’s Word - there is only one book that is living and active. Jeremiah 6:16 reminds us to ask for the ancient paths - the way of the Lord is well worn by the travels of believers before us - walk in those ways!
- JC Ryle - great author - some of his works include Thoughts for Young Men and Holiness.
- The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - written by a professed atheist, Haidt’s research into the negative effects of screen time on our kids is a valuable read for parents today.
- Atomic Habits by James Clear. How to make those small, 1% changes that over time become powerful habits in your life.
- Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster - great resource for spiritual growth and maturity.
- Marriage on the Rock by Jimmy Evans
- Al Mohler’s The Briefing podcast.
- Five Lies of Our Anti-Christian Age by Rosaria Butterfield.
- The Indwelling Life of Christ by Major Ian Thomas
Again, parents, we are working on a Resource Page - so if you have some suggestions or recommendations, please email me at dpanetti@prestonwoodchristian.org - love to hear from you!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Anna May, Sharayah Colter, Marchelle Michel
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Parents, we are creating a RESOURCE PAGE to help direct you to outstanding resources - and I’d love to get your favorite resources listed on there as well. Please email me at dpanetti@prestonwoodchristian.org to share your favorite books, videos, CDs, podcasts, etc…stayed tuned for more information.
While we mentioned dozens of resources in this podcast, here are a few highlights:
The Secret of the Hidden Scrolls by MJ Thomas
Adventures in Odyssey Audio
Chronicles of Naria by CS Lewis book set
The Little Pilgrim’s Progress by Helen Taylor
The Priest with Dirty Clothes by RC Sproul
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Russ Crosson, chief mission officer and senior partner of Blue Trust (Ron Blue Institute), and author of Your Life…Well Spent: The Eternal Rewards of Investing Yourself and Your Money in Your Family
If you’d like to watch this podcast, check out the PCA YouTube page.
Russ - I manage my money to have more LIFE, not just more money!
Russ - you need to know the difference between PROSPERITY (wealth/money/material possessions) and POSTERITY (children/legacy/generations to come).
The Principle of Time Replacement: How to Add Posterity Time to Our Schedules
- “Time-saving” devices - we spend more time working in pursuit of more money or to buy more possessions that require time to use and maintain. As a result, the typical full-time employee’s work week has expanded from forty to nearly fifty-seven hours.
- When you make spending decisions, ask, “How will this expense affect our entire family?”
- Principle of Replacement - the addition of new time commitments to my schedule usually involves a trade-off between work and posterity time
- Only say yes if the activity can replace something else that’s already in your schedule that doesn’t detract from your posterity time
A New Understanding of Work
5 - Only change vocations to better fulfill your purpose and maximize your time flexibility - not to make more money
7 - If you’re in a career that is currently generating sufficient income, carefully evaluate additional time spent to earn more income, especially if your children are young.
- Remember, your children’s first ten years are the most critical
A Good Name is Better Than Riches: Building Our Posterity’s Social Capital
- Must take the time to train our children
- More money doesn’t mean better lives…or better children
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Jane Matthews, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd
For video of this podcast, check out PCA’s YouTube page.
In this episode, we look at the latest Inside Out 2 movie which adds additional emotions to young Riley as she turns 13 and enters puberty. In addition to Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust, Riley now gets Anxiety, Envy, Ennui (Boredom in French), and Embarrassment.
As with the first Inside Out movie, this film is filled with excellent content for meaningful conversations with your children. The situations are powerful and the changes and challenges that Riley faces are moving.
We hope that our discussion helps you, as a Christian parent, engage with mediums like mainstream movies in a significant way with your family. Our discussions of Inside Out 1 and 2 are not an endorsement of the movies, their content or message, but a realization of the powerful influence of movies in our culture and an opportunity to present you with insights about how to utilize these resources to equip your family from a Biblical worldview.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Jane Matthews, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd
For video of this podcast, check out PCA’s YouTube page.
We started our discussion with the first Inside Out, which was released in 2015. This movie from Pixar looks at the various emotions that make up our personality - for the movie, they chose Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, and Disgust.
From a parenting perspective, the movie is filled with excellent content for meaningful conversations with your children. The situations are powerful and the changes and challenges that Riley faces are moving.
We hope that our discussion helps you, as a Christian parent, engage with mediums like mainstream movies in a significant way with your family. Our discussion of Inside Out is not an endorsement of the movie, its content or message, but a realization of the powerful influence of movies in our culture and an opportunity to present you with insights about how to utilize these resources to equip your family from a Biblical worldview.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Holly Hamilton, Sandy Leydig, and Joel Gordon
For video of this podcast, check out PCA’s YouTube page.
Raising Spiritual Champions: Nurturing Your Child’s Heart, Mind, and Soul
By George Barna
Section ONE - The Importance of Children
Section TWO - The Four Principles of a Disciple
Section THREE - Families and Churches in Partnership
Section Three - Families and Churches in Partnership
Working together, parents and their faith community can be a dynamic and potent force for the kingdom of God, leading to transformed lives among the young people in the church’s families.
Chapter 8 - Parents Must Manage Media Exposure
- Exposure to media is the MOST significant shaper of a person’s worldview
- Parents consciously fill the role of media gatekeeper
- Large doses of media consumption change the configuration and capacity of the brain - for the worse
- Acceptance of parental authority drops
- Four M’s of Media Management
- Monitor media use
- Minimize media use
- Moralize media content
- Model media standards
Chapter 9 - Where is the Local Church?
- Churches, like most service-based organizations, are responsive to the expressed needs and desires of their user base. Face it, parents do not clamor for real discipleship experiences for their children, and churches have not done much to push back on that blind spot.
- The most effective churches provide:
- Teach parents to understand and own the role of spiritual mentor to their child
- Offer support and assistance needed for parents to fight the spiritual war that surrounds their children
- Good churches look to PARTNER with parents…
- A WORD about Christian schools…
- Public schools are no friend to Christ
- A Bible-based Christian school can be an enormous help to a parent who is striving to raise a spiritual champion and partnering with parents in seeking to defeat the prevailing culture that dismisses biblical truths and lifestyles
Chapter 10 - Fight for Your Children
- You must MODEL for them the life of a spiritual warrior…
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Holly Hamilton, Sandy Leydig, and Joel Gordon
For video of this podcast, check out PCA’s YouTube page.
Raising Spiritual Champions: Nurturing Your Child’s Heart, Mind, and Soul
By George Barna
Section ONE - The Importance of Children
Section TWO - The Four Principles of a Disciple
Section THREE - Families and Churches in Partnership
Section Two - The Four Practices of a Disciple
- Making a life-defining commitment to be a disciple of Jesus
- Accepting the biblical principles and commands that lead to becoming a disciple
- Adopting the lifestyle of a disciple - obedience through application of beliefs
- Inviting personal accountability and stability - through assessing what matters, reinforcing growth, and celebrating disciplehood
Chapter 4 - Disciple-Making Practice #1
- Being a genuine disciple starts with obedience.
- Why obey His teachings? Because He has provided them so that we may flourish in life.
- Obedience therefore demands knowledge of Scripture
- A different way of describing a disciple is someone who thinks like Jesus, which enables them to act like Jesus, producing someone who therefore lives like Jesus.
- Spiritual Commitments:
- Serving Christ
- Building a solid relationship
- Investing personal resources
- Implementing a solid plan
- Using proven practices
Chapter 5 - Disciple-Making Practice #2
- Biblically speaking, discipling a child is meant to be done by the child’s parents
- How WORLDVIEW develops
- Experimental process
- Imitating their parents
- List of DIFFERENT/COMPETING worldviews…
- 94% of adults have a syncretistic worldview - a blending of views from two or more of the comprehensive worldview systems
Chapter 6 - Disciple-Making Practice #3
- An equally important undertaking is to promote the fledgling disciple fully, and passionately integrating those beliefs into a Christlike lifestyle.
- The expansive impact of those attributes is an example of why discipling someone is not a quick process.
- Spiritual fruit begins with evidence of personal transformation
Chapter 7 - Disciple-Making Practice #4
- Accountability system
- Find a spiritual mentor
- Must be taught the importance of consistent SELF-EVALUATION
- Introduce young followers to the still, small voice of the Lord…
- Measurement tools
- Worldview Assessments Spiritual Gifts
- Personal Strengths Personality Attributes
- Spiritual Growth and Maturity
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Holly Hamilton, Sandy Leydig, and Joel Gordon
Raising Spiritual Champions: Nurturing Your Child’s Heart, Mind, and Soul
By George Barna
Section ONE - The Importance of Children
Section TWO - The Four Principles of a Disciple
Section THREE - Families and Churches in Partnership
Section One - The Importance of Children
Chapter 1 - Making the Most of Your Life
- Most young adults (54%) admit they often feel anxious, depressed, or unsafe
- The Great Commitment is your promise to God that you will apply yourself to carrying out those challenges - with His authority, in His power, and for His glory
- Parents have PRIMARY responsibility for the total well-being of their children - education, discipline, protection - but the most vital aspect of their development is spiritual formation.
Chapter 2 - Realigning Our Course Trajectory
- Many embrace the label of “spiritual but not religious”
- LESS than 1% of thirteen- and fourteen-year-old Americans have a biblical worldview
Parenting Tactics
- Prioritizing spiritual development
- Establishing inflexible Bible-based priorities and boundaries
- Discipling each child
- Influencing the choice of their friends
- CONSISTENCY is the single, most important attribute…
Chapter 3 - Disciple-Making, Yes-But Why Disciple Children?
- Who has the greatest impact/influence on our kids - the arts and entertainment media industry…
- Act of repetition
- Peer acceptance
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Len Munsil, President, and Dr. Jeffrey Green, VP of Academic Affairs and chief academic officer, at Arizona Christian University (ACU)
Transforming Culture with Truth
In Transforming Culture with Truth, Arizona Christian University President Len Munsil explains how the principles and values that built Western Civilization are under assault, and how a decaying and divided culture can be transformed through biblical truth. In this second edition, Munsil applies his incisive analysis to the most pressing cultural issues we face as a nation, and offers both hope and practical wisdom to the next generation of Christian leaders as they seek to advance God’s Kingdom in an increasingly hostile culture.
Worldview training and development address concepts of personal spiritual development as well as how our faith intersects with culture!
Recommended resource: Raising Spiritual Champions: Nurturing Your Child’s Heart, Mind, and Soul by George Barna
Parents, don’t get discouraged in the training of your children - parenting is hard work…it’s a journey, a marathon, not a sprint…stay faithful and prayerful - and look to partner with solid Biblical institutions like PCA and ACU.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Shannon Lichty, Trudy Reed, Jillian Bryant, PCA’s FPS State 1st and 2nd Place teams
Twenty-five years ago, Shannon Lichty brought the FPS program to PCA. Along with several others who have invested in making this program a resounding success, Shannon has invested her heart and energies into countless PCA students both in the classroom and through FPS. To learn more about PCA’s FPS program, check out this page on the PCA website. To learn more about FPS in general, check out: Future Problem Solving Program International
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Giovanni Capriglione, Texas State Representative, District 98
- Barna’s research has shown that nearly 3/4th (72%) of parents are worried about or concerned with AI’s impact on their children - but also that only 17% have actually taken steps to learn more about AI - so, basically parents are afraid and under-informed
- One concern expressed about AI is the potential likelihood of decreased social connection, adding to the epidemic of loneliness and isolation this generation is already facing
- AI is more complex than “if/then” commands - it is a system that can be trained to use data for specific purposes
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Rep. Capriglione’s bill (HB 2060) into law creating the Artificial Intelligence Advisory Council that will study the use of AI in state government
- AI collects data points - the average person has at least 100,000 data points collected on them - which means that AI can know you better than you know yourself! Digital privacy laws are being passed so that people can begin to see the information that has been collected about them.
- The best way to protect yourself is to reduce the amount of information that AI can collect on you - be aware of this
- Social media has one goal - to make sure you don’t put your phone down - the more you scroll, the more data that is being collected about you!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Emerson Seal, Elizabeth Teague, and Sevyn Trogdon (PCA Freshmen, Class of 2027)
Sevyn’s dad runs a discipleship ministry called Kingdom Focus Coaching.
The girls share their thoughts about some of the more memorable moments at PCA Lower School including: the Kindergarten Circus, sea animal project, transportation day, Invention Convention, Let George Do It, and the Boosterthon Fun Run! Their favorite part of school was definitely their teachers!
Things that their parents did to help them grow in their faith:
- Going on ministry service projects and opportunities with their parents and actually seeing God at work
- Leading by example - living out your faith so that your kids can see that it is truly important to you and your family - has such a significant impact on your children
- Kingdom Education is the working together of the church, the home, and the school working in concert to train up a child in the way they should go - and “church” isn’t just a Sunday morning activity, but being involved in a variety of opportunities including PSO for sports, MidWeek on Wednesday evenings, student choir, etc. For more information, check out the Prestonwood Student Ministry page and the Prestonwood Student Worship page.
- Helping your kids navigate “friendships” and building quality relationships by being a good friend and surrounding yourself with godly individuals who can challenge you to be the best person you can be. Also, remember to maintain good relationships with non-Christians to be a light and encouragement pointing them to Christ!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Kristin Dysart, M.Ed., MS and US Guidance Counselor, PCA North
PCA isn’t just a “college prep” educational institution - the Biblical worldview and academic rigor of PCA is designed to equip students for success in life, which includes college for those who desire to attend.
Kristin references a Christianity Today article that differentiates between the “price” of a college education and the “cost” - which dives into the cost of young people being indoctrinated in a worldview that is contrary to solid and orthodox Biblical teaching. In the article, Dr. Henderson points to a “strong link between a young person’s choice of a college and their short-term and long-term commitment to Christian faith.” Here is a summary of that article.
To learn more about Hope College’s “Hope Forward” initiative featured on Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History podcast, click here.
What should parents instill in their children as they mature on their journey at PCA - here are some recommendations:
- Allow your children to fail and to learn from their mistakes
- Stain your children with the Word of God
- Ground your children’s identity in Christ
- A connection to you as a parent is more important to your child’s development than connections to their peers
- Train your children to be responsible for their actions
- Be intentional about the conversations you’re having with your children.
Good resource as you consider where your son/daughter should attend college:
- Where You God Is Not Who You’ll Be: An Antidote to the College Admissions Mania by Frank Bruni
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
State Representative Matt Shaheen led the efforts in the last legislative session to pass laws requiring age verification for access to “adult” [porn] websites (for more information, see House Bill 1181). The law requires that users verify that they are over 18 years old. A couple of months ago, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a challenge to the Texas age verification requirement. Responding to that decision, several porn sites have blocked all uses from Texas. Several other states are passing similar legislation in efforts to protect children from sexually explicit material.
Common Sense Media released valuable research called “Teens and Pornography” which found that 73% of teens aged 13 to 17 who participated in the survey have watched pornography online and more than half (54%) reported that their first exposure to pornography occurred around the age of 13. The report also revealed that a majority of teens who indicated that they’ve viewed online pornography have been exposed to what has been labeled aggressive and/or violent forms of pornography.
And remember that this year is a Presidential Election and the General Election is coming up this November. Christians Engaged is a wonderful organization to help you get informed and engaged as a Christian citizen in our great country.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA US Counselor
Erin recommends Jess Connolly’s book Breaking Free from Body Shame: Dare to Reclaim What God Has Named Good as a good resource and launching point for conversations about body image, God’s design, God’s goodness in our lives, and our struggles to embrace God’s best for us when it conflicts with the world’s narrative
Another good resource for wrestling with body image issues from a biblical perspective includes the work and writings of Heather Creekmore made available on her website Compared to Who?
Scripture refers to our bodies as temples…and tents…both are important to understand - temples meaning that our bodies are important, valuable - we actually carry the Holy Spirit with us - and tents meaning that our bodies are temporary and should be held in the proper perspective of eternal things…as Christians we have this tension between this world…and the next - we are citizens of both!
Our bodies are “good” - but aren’t they also “broken” and flawed because of the curse of sin - and working to “better” our bodies doesn’t always have to be trying to beat the curse…can’t it also be just working to better what’s broken?
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Michael Perron, Minister over Life Recovery, and Tim Matthews, Minimester to Adults, at Prestonwood Baptist Church
Dr. Jack Graham - Don’t just curse the darkness; light a candle.
James 1:27 - Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world.
Prestonwood is hosting The Chosen Conference on Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 8:30 am - 7:00 pm. Speakers at this conference include Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Scott Turner, Gregg Matte, and Shane and Kasi Pruitt. The conference will highlight the needs relating to adoption and foster care as well as give practical ideas how you can make a difference on this front.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
18 destinations (10 international, 8 domestic) plus local missions across two campuses sending thousands of students and faculty across the globe and right next door to share the Good News that Jesus Christ came, lived, died, and rose again and that there is life eternal by grace through faith in Him. Students serving as the hands and feet of Jesus, packing food for the needy, collecting items for the homeless, offering coffee and a smile just for the opportunity to tell one more person that Jesus loves them - Minimester 2024 is in the books and the stories of God’s goodness, His provision, His protection, His providence are what motivate PCA to continue this program year after year. Minimester is more than a week-long mission/service opportunity; it’s a year-long, campus-wide effort to equip students to be bold witnesses and faithful servants.
Thank you to the students and faculty for sharing their stories and perspectives on the importance of PCA’s Minimester program. We pray that we never take for granted God working in and through the PCA community to impact the world for His glory.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: June Hunt
Bonding with Your Teens Through Boundaries by June Hunt. Discover a balanced, biblical way to set appropriate boundaries that will prepare your teen to live an independent, self-controlled, successful life. JUNE HUNT, one of the world's leading Christian counselors, shows you how. Using scores of tough real-life scenarios, June helps you learn to use boundaries--each linked to specific repercussions and rewards--to guide your teen through four critical areas of life: home, school, personal, and social. Each scenario is followed by concrete advice on what to do and what to say.Once you communicate the boundaries, your teen has a choice: Cross them or stay inside. At that point, the teenager--not you, the parent--chooses to receive the repercussion or reward. Behavior becomes linked to consequences, building maturity, trust and security. Practical and realistic in its tone, June's biblical guidance helps you win--not a war, but a relationship of mutual respect.
The Hope Center houses 64 different ministries in this one facility, which is an incredible stewardship opportunity for these ministries.
Hope for the Heart is a worldwide biblical resource ministry, founded by June Hunt, that offers biblical hope and practical wisdom on over one hundred relevant topics facing individuals, families, and the church today! The different elements of June’s ministry include the following:
- Keys for Living LibraryShort helpful books with clear answers from God’s answer and concise, practical guidance on life’s challenges.
- Lifeline to HopeA suite of video-based courses on lay caregiving designed to equip people to provide support, encouragement, and spiritual care to those in need.
- International Christian Coaching Institute (ICCI)
A global network of like-minded Christian coaches with online courses, credentialing, and certifications – bringing life and living into focus. - Radio Broadcast
Hope in the Night is a live, one-hour, call-in counseling program with June Hunt sharing biblical guidance to real callers facing real challenges. - June’s Place
Helpful books, Bible studies, music, and more from Hope for the Heart Founder, June Hunt. - Counseling Services
HopeWorks Counseling provides professional counseling (in-person and teletherapy) for individuals, couples, families, and groups. - Free Downloads
Find quick answers and biblical guidance to everyday problems with our free, downloadable life guides. - Social Media
Follow Hope for the Heart on Facebook to receive encouraging posts from God’s Word, blog articles to help you grow in your faith, and discounts on our biblical resources and training courses. You can also follow June Hunt on Facebook here!
Also, check out the incredible Mental Health & The Church conference with June Hunt, George Barna, Greg Stier, Haley Scully, and Dr. Eric Scalise on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Plano Event Center from 9am-5pm. This event is for anyone called to care for those around them…including parents, youth pastors, coaches, and teachers.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Hope Harris
Hope is a former “loud and proud” lesbian activist from Seattle who surrendered her life and sexuality to Christ about fifteen years ago. Her spiritual journey with Christ began when a friend asked Hope what she really wanted in life and when Hope responded with “peace,” her friend showed Hope the peace with God made possible by the work of Jesus Christ on the cross - see John 14:27.
The verse in Scripture that jumped off the page to Hope was found in 1 Corinthians 6:9-11, which reads:
Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
God’s intended design is what is best for each person. God does not withhold what is best. His design for gender and sexuality gives healthy boundaries and relationships that help us know what is best, healthy, and beneficial to human flourishing.
Because God is relational, we as human beings created in the image of God are designed to be relational as well. We are designed to be in community and to live lives with purpose and meaning beyond what feels best for our own self-interest.
“You are” messages translate into “I am” concepts in the minds of many young people. Be very careful what you say to others - words have power. Part of parenting is to model what healthy gender and sexuality really are for others to see.
Fighting back against the lies of this world is really a discipleship issue. Are you discipling your children, grounding them in the Word of God, and building them up to be the men and women that God has created and designed for them to be? Remember that people, even if we disagree with them, are not our enemies. Scripture reminds us that our “battle isn’t against flesh and blood, but against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12).
Hope’s Recommended Resources:
Homosexuality and the Christian: A Guide for Parents, Pastors, and Friends by Mark Yarhouse
Talking to Kids about Gender Identity: A Roadmap for Christian Compassion, Civility, and Conviction by Mark Yarhouse
Feelings are real, but they are not reliable. Also, parents, we need to discuss God’s design for gender and sexuality - if they aren’t hearing the truth from us, they are learning lies from the world.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Leanne Jamison, Alana Campbell, Whitney Freeman, and Dalton McGaha
The work and ministry of the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center is vital and as important as ever, even after the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the recent Dobbs decision, saving the lives of the unborn and helping families in crisis is an incredible opportunity to be the hands and feet of Jesus to those who are in need of love and care. But the pregnancy center needs YOU to help - to volunteer, to serve, to ministry, to give. Listen to this moving and powerful powerful podcast featuring some PCA parents just like you as they tell about how they got involved and the difference their time and energies make in the lives of others!
And then connect with the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center - set up a diaper drive, donate items on their Amazon wish list, volunteer some of your time, and give some of your resources to help continue their incredible work!
Also remember the Chosen conference is just around the corner on Saturday, April 13th. This conference is a national gathering of life-affirming leaders and organizations providing information, resources, and support about adoption and foster care. Dynamic keynote speakers who have a passion for the sanctity of life and a heart for children in desperate need of a “forever home” include Gregg Matte, Sadie Robertson Huff, Korie Robertson, and Shane & Kasi Pruitt.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Leo (Jake) Hebert III, Research Scientist, Institute for Creation Research (ICR)
April 8th will feature a total eclipse and Dallas, TX is in the path of totality. To learn more about the path of totality and what you need to do to prepare, visit NASA’s site here. You can also pay attention to our friends at Day 4 Astronomy.
You will need some special glasses to view the eclipse - lots of places are selling them, make sure they are NASA certified.
The solar system is remarkable for how young it appears and new research continues to support a young universe. Check out the latest articles at ICR that point toward evidence for a young universe.
To read more about how blue stars point to a young universe, check out this article at ICR. Evolution has a problem with their origin story for the creation of stars.
Check out Dr. Hebert’s latest article on the ice sheets and how they demonstrate a young earth.
Check our Dr. Hebert’s article on delayed maturation and extreme longevity in the pre-flood era.
Check out the ICR Discovery Center for Science and Earth History.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Tim Clarey, Director of Research, Institute for Creation Research (ICR)
What’s new in the world of science - plate tectonics! The movement of the sea floor had a dramatic impact on the impact of the Flood - and the more recent discoveries give more evidence for a worldwide and catastrophic Flood. Dr. John Baumgardner has done some amazing research in this area - you can read more about this here.
Dr. Clarey’s research shows evidence for a “progressive” and worldwide flood as well as deposits of marine fossils in places where water just shouldn’t be unless there was a worldwide flood.
To learn more about the fossil record and how scientists use this for dating strata, check out these resources at ICR.
You’ll want to check out The Discovery Center at ICR - here’s what you can expect there:
- Planetarium shows
- Engaging exhibits that teach the origin of the universe and how science affirms the Bible
- Animatronic creatures, special effects, and a chilly Ice Age theater
- Fascinating facts about DNA and human ancestry, fossils and rocks, dinosaurs, and astronomy
- Development and application of critical thinking skills while discovering the latest scientific research
- A Bible-based journey through Earth's history, highlighting scientific discoveries along the way
- Special events will include live presentations by scientists and scholars
- A resource store full of creation-based science resources and educational kits
Read more about the latest discoveries related to “feathered dinosaurs” and the Biblical narrative that God created animals according to their kind. Also read more about the six biological evidences for a young earth by ICR.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Ben Quine, Vice President of Christians Engaged
Christians Engaged is encouraging and equipping Christians to PRAY, VOTE, and ENGAGE the culture for Christ!
1 Timothy 2:2 - Paul calls for Christians to pray “for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”
The Primary Election date is Tuesday, March 5th - and Early Voting is from Feb. 20th to March 1st
The runoff for the primary election will be May 28th
The General Election is Tuesday, November 5th
To learn more about the Party Platforms and their positions on important issues of our day, get this Biblical Roadmap to the Party Platforms.
Mike Johnson’s 7 Core Principles of Conservativism
- Individual Freedom
- Limited Government
- The Rule of Law
- Peace through Strength
- Fiscal Responsibility
- Free Markets
- Human Dignity
In preparation for Easter, check out this Living Hope Devotional - a 5 week journey into the powerful story of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ - our “living hope.” The first four weeks of the book will strengthen your heart, soul, and mind by working through a different spiritual discipline each week. Those disciplines will set the table for week five - Holy Week. Cost is $10. Order yours now to get it in time for you to start five weeks before Easter!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Megan Rogers, Senior Director of Development and Stewardship and Lauren Aulenbach, Director of Annual Funds
Check out the PCA Alumni podcast called LifeTalk
The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet will be held at 6 pm on Sunday, April 21st at The Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, TX
The attire for the event is “western” - so put on the boots and jeans and come on out!
This year’s award recipient is John C. Maxwell, known for his Maxwell Leadership training and resources.
To sponsor a table, visit the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership website.
PCA alumni, when you donate, all of the dollars that you give go toward the PCA Alunni Endowment Fund that helps PCA alumni financially afford PCA.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Coleman Bales (North campus, junior), Trinity Elliot (North campus, senior), Katelyn Teague (Plano campus, senior), and Campbell Panetti (Plano campus, junior)
Freedom Weekend at Prestonwood is February 2-4, 7 at both the Prestonwood Plano and North campuses. To find out more about Freedom Weekend, MDWK (MidWeek) Bible studies, LifeGroups on Sunday, Lead Team, Beach Camp, Parent Resources, and other ways to connect with Prestonwood as a student or parent, check out www.prestonwoodstudents.org
Parents, there is also a parent training opportunity on Sunday morning, February 4th at the Plano campus with Lisa Clark in Room A112 at 9:30 am.
To join in praying for Freedom Weekend text PRAY4FREEDOM to 74788.
To learn more about the student choir mission trips, check out www.prestonwoodstudentworship.org. Students are able to get involved in additional opportunities like Fall Follies and the Gift of Christmas (GOC) as well.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Johnny Farr and Nick Bellamy
As we look to equip you as parents for meaningful and intentional spiritual training, pointing you to good resources and books is a practical way to prepare you to better train your children “in the fear and admonition of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4). We will also look to address other media avenues, such as movies, to help equip you, the parents, for those quality conversations around the dinner table or on your drive to and from school.
Our first resource that we are reviewing and strongly recommending is Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul David Tripp.
From the book Parenting:
Introduction
Good parents don’t always produce good kids, and parents should constantly be asking themselves where they get the set of values that tell them whether they have “good” kids or not.
Chapter 1 Calling
Principle: Nothing is more important in your life than being one of God’s tools to form a human soul.
Chapter 2 Grace
Here’s the humbling conclusion that God, in grace, led me to: I am more like my children than unlike them - and so are you!
Chapter 4 Inability
Parenting is not about exercising power for change in your children. Parenting is about your humble faithfulness in being willing to participate in God’s work of change for the sake of your children.
Chapter 5 Identity
Principle: If you are not resting as a parent in your identity in Christ, you will look for identity in your children.
How do you know if you’re putting your identity on the shoulders of your children?
- Too much focus on success.
- Too much concern about reputation.
- Too great a desire for control.
- Too much emphasis on doing rather than being.
- Too much temptation to make it personal.
Chapter 6 Process
Principle: You must be committed as a parent to long-view parenting because change is a process and not an event.
Chapter 8 Authority
Do you humbly own the rebellion of your own heart as you deal with the rebellion of your children in a way that causes you to exercise authority with patience and grace?
Chapter 9 Foolishness
Principle: The foolishness inside your children is more dangerous to them than the temptation outside of them. Only God’s grace has the power to rescue fools.
Chapter 12 Control
Principle: The goal of parenting is not control of behavior, but rather heart and life change.
Chapter 14 Mercy
Principle: No parent gives mercy better than one who is convinced that he desperately needs it himself.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: PCA Alumni Pateel Toranian (‘23), Isabelle Simpson (‘20), and Hunter Hall (‘20)
What a blessing it was to hear from Pateel Toranian (Class of 2023, currently at the University of Texas - Austin), Isabelle Simpson (Class of 2020, currently at Texas Tech University), and Hunter Hall (Class of 2020, currently at Texas A&M University) - they shared some practical wisdom with our US students at chapel and I was able to catch them before they returned to college to have their share about the impact that PCA has and is making in their lives and spiritual journeys.
All three of these students had parents who were involved in their spiritual development as well as the other “legs of the stool” - involvement in a good Bible-teaching church and the Christ-centered, Biblical worldview intensive aspects of Prestonwood Christian Academy. The Biblical worldview training that a student receives at PCA is not only foundational for success at PCA and in college, but also for a “successful and prosperous” life as defined by God’s economy (see Joshua 1:8). All three of these students are continuing their spiritual maturity while in college - they are all plugged into a solid church and Christian community and continuing their own personal spiritual growth!
When we talk about The Portrait of a PCA Graduate, the concepts that are important are a reverence for God, an eternal perspective, humility, a rigorous academic learning process, and high expectations and accountability. Each of these students embody those characteristics of a PCA Graduate!
How much do you have to hate someone - statement from magician Penn Jillette following a situation where a man shared about the life-transforming power of Jesus Christ.
The students also shared about the incredible and eternal impact of PCA’s Minimester program - coming up again in March - be praying for our students who will be traveling across the globe to share the love of Jesus!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer for PCA, and Emery Petroff, PCA’s Ambassador Board member, Finance and Operations committee
PCA’s re-enrollment begins on January 15 and concludes on January 31 for existing PCA families. At that time, spots will be open for those looking to enroll their students in PCA for the next school year who are not currently enrolled at PCA. Re-enrollment is a vital component of maintaining the spirit and vibrancy of the PCA community and over the years more than 90% of families at PCA chose to re-enroll their students for the following year, which is a remarkable achievement. Part of the decision-making process for families considering PCA is the tuition and each year that tuition amount is determined by key leadership personnel at PCA and approved by the FiOps committee, and then the entire Ambassador Board at PCA. Dr. Goddard recently sent out an email informing parents of the minimal increase of 2% for the 2024-25 school year and the conversation with Angie Gray and Emery Petroff will hopefully help you understand how this decision was reached. As Dr. Goddard wrote in his email, “We realize and appreciate the sacrifice you [parents/families] make each year to provide your children with a Kingdom education. We are grateful for the privilege of partnering with you to provide a Kingdom education for your student. Together we will continue our mission, establishing students for life and building Faith-Filled Lions.”
If you have any questions about re-enrollment as a current PCA family or wish to learn more about enrolling your child(ren) at PCA in the future, please contact Angie Gray, Chief Enrollment and Marketing Officer at 972-930-4007 or via email at agray@prestonwoodchristian.org
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Coach Shawn Purcell, Tucker Richardson, Jackson McAdams, Reid Thornberry, and Mason Purcell
Tucker Richardson is a senior at PCA North and played linebacker and receiver. Tucker earned 1st team All-State honors as a receiver and 2nd team All-State honors as a linebacker.
Jackson McAdams is a senior at PCA North and played defensive line. Jackson earned 2nd team All-State honors for that position.
Reid Thornberry is a junior at PCA North and played tight end and defensive line. Reid earned 1st team All-State honors for both positions.
Mason Purcell is a junior at PCA North and played safety. Mason earned 1st team All-State honors for that position.
Coach Shawn Purcell has been coaching football at PCA North for four seasons (26 seasons all together) and this championship is Coach Purcell’s first state championship!
The expectations that Coach Purcell set for his team were taken up by the captains and implemented into all facets of the team. One example was that the team cleaned their buses and locker rooms after they were finished - leaving things better than they found them!
The 2023 team finished the season with an 11-1 record outsourcing their opponents 668 to 195 over these games. PCA North Lions captured the first team state championship in its history beating Baytown Christian 70-22 for the TAPPS Division III six-man title.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Karol Ladd
Known as “the Positive Lady,” Karol Ladd inspires men and women around the world with a message of lasting hope and Biblical truth. Karol is open, honest and real in both her speaking and her writing. Formerly a teacher, Karol is the best-selling author of over 35 books including The Power of a Positive Mom, Positive Leadership Principles for Women and her newest book, Becoming a Woman of the Word
Wisdom for parents with children in Lower School:
- This can be one of the most difficult times in life - you are stretched thin, tired, and have so many things tugging at you! But at those times when you’re at your weakest, we need to lean into God - when we are weak, He is strong. Remember that you don’t have to “do everything” - look to the Lord for guidance and prudence!
- Psalm 145:14 - The Lord upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.
Wisdom for parents with children in Middle School:
- Important time for parents to be “present” - offer emotional strength and patience as your child adjusts to all the hormonal changes happening in their bodies. Before reacting, ask the Lord for discernment - to see the heart of your child, not just the outside “prickliness.” Middle School students are not a finished product! Great time to listen to the heart of your child - dinner time conversations!
Wisdom for parents with children in Upper School:
- Good to guide your children toward activities that help use their God-given giftings. Pay close attention to their “friends” - who is influencing your child? Be hospitable, have those friends in your home to influence them as well. Your children are watching you - model an authentic walk with and love for the Lord!
- The Gospel Comes with a House Key: Practicing Radically Ordinary Hospitality in Our Post-Christian World by Rosaria Butterfield
Encouragement for grandparents:
- Psalm 145:4 - One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.
- Grandparents, now is the time to share that wisdom and experience with the generations coming up! Goal - to do more ministry in your final “lap” than all your years up to this point! Check out Gun Lap: Staying in the Race with Purpose by Robert Wohlgemuth
- Looking for a great place to take your grandkids - check out the Institute for Creation Research (ICR) Discovery Center right here in Dallas!
- Marco Polo app - a video chat app “that brings you closer to the people who matter most without asking you to compromise on trust”
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Spiritual Development at PCA and Associate Pastor of Apologetics & Cultural Engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church
To learn more about the impact of the Dobbs decision, check out this article from The Ethics and Religious Liberties Commission of the Southern Baptist Commission called “What Christians Should Know About Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.”
The Faith Integration Planner is part of the PCA faculty training initiative to train our instructional staff how to integrate their faith and God’s Word into their lessons plans from PreK-12th grade and in every subject and activity!
Faith training begins in the home. Parents need to lead the way by modeling a vibrant and growing faith setting the example for children to follow. PCA is committed to equipping and empowering parents to live out their dynamic and authentic faith and pass on their legacy of faith from generation to generation! Faith integration is most powerful when all three legs of the proverbial stool - the home, the church, and the school - are working together, creating a synergy of faith and a concert of Christian voices speaking truth and encouragement to students.
Dr. Johnston has some recommendations for parents:
- Listen to and share The Journey podcast each week - share it with other parents at PCA and with parents who don’t have kids at PCA - they need to be equipped with the truth as well!
- Get connected and involved with as many things happening at PCA and the life of your students. Middle School parents especially should be looking to connect with their students during the Pride of Brothers and Society of Sisters opportunities. Also, ask your students about chapel topics, what they learned, and how you as a family can integrate those biblical truths into your family!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Sherry Smith, Tricia Panetti, and Emery Petrof
Emery - research from the Mayo Clinic - expressing gratitude is associated with a host of mental and physical benefits - studies have shown that feeling thankful can improve sleep, mood, and immunity in today’s world. Gratitude can decrease depression, anxiety, difficulties with chronic pain and disease. If a pill could do this, everybody would take it! Furthermore, a person can not feel both gratitude and anxiety at the same time.
Sherry - the most important factor in developing gratitude in my children is modeling it for them to see!
Tricia - the attitude of gratitude starts with me - we can’t expect others to have something that we don’t. Gratitude starts with being aware of your surroundings - the world doesn’t revolve around you!
Emery - we start every prayer with gratitude - and just because we can, doesn’t mean that we should. We also look for opportunities to give back to others.
Sherry - a heart of gratitude is developed through hands that serve.
Tricia - learning to verbalize gratitude/appreciation/thankfulness is vital for our kids. Time in the car can be a great training opportunity with your kids!
Looking for an opportunity to serve the Lord and your community, connect with the incredible ministries of GraceBridge and Operation Christmas Child. Also appreciate what God is doing in and through the lives of our PCA students/community through Minimester collections, service opportunities, and evangelistic outreach.
What Bible verses/stories come to mind when you talk about gratitude with your family?
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16 - Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
- Proverbs 12:25 - Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.
- Philippians 4:6 - Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Dean of Spiritual Development at PCA and Associate Pastor of Apologetics & Cultural Engagement at Prestonwood Baptist Church
The Jewish people were chosen and given land by God. Not only is this land under dispute, but the very existence of the Jews is under attack today!
The Palestinian chant, “From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free” is not simply a call to throw off unwanted oppression from the nation of Israel, but is a call for genocide - the elimination and extinction of the Jewish people.
Ideas have consequences, bad ideas have victims.
The Khartoum Resolution was put forth in September 1967 and is best known for the “Three Noes” - no recognition, no negotiation, no peace.
Many have made this observation: if Israel laid down their weapons, the people of Israel would be eliminated; but if Palestine laid down their weapons, there would be peace in the Middle East. As Christians, we need to be asking what are the worldviews that are driving each side of this conflict and why are they using force - to protect people or to eliminate them?
Check out some recent materials that Dr. Jeremiah Johnston helped produce to help us understand this issue:
God’s Love for Israel and the Jewish People By Jeremiah J. Johnston, PhD
Christianity & Islam: The Key Differences, Prestonwood HomeLife Resource
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: State Representative Matt Shaheen, Texas State House District 66
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has called the Texas Legislature back into a special session where they are only allowed to address the issues that the governor has placed on their docket. One of those issues that the legislature has addressed is increasing border security along the Texas/Mexico border.
Legislation has been passed making it illegal to enter the US illegally - sounds strange, but it's a very important aspect so that individuals who enter the country illegally can be arrested without having to break another law in the US. Here is one story about this legislation.
The governor has also asked the legislature to address parental freedom and financing options for school choice legislation. Here is one article that gives more information about the bill passed by the Texas Senate, which may not be passed by the House.
Governor Abbott signed the largest property tax relief bill in Texas history, $18 billion, and you should be getting the good news about property tax reductions soon!
Newly elected Speaker of the House Mike Johnson is a devout Christian and has come under attack for his Biblical views and values - read more about the battle for Christians entering into the political arena with views that run counter to our current culture. To learn more about Speaker Johnson's 7 Core Principles of Conservativism, click here.
To learn more about the PCA Mock Trial program under the tutelage and leadership of Kim Stidham, click here.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Matt and Lindsey McGuire and Drew and Carolyn Herndon, PCA North parents
Make sure you’re looking for our parent training resources - PCA isn’t just a great place for your students to grow spiritually, it’s an awesome opportunity for the entire family to grow spiritually as well.
Parent Perspective Panels - next scheduled events
Plano - Friday, November 3rd from 8:30-9:30 am in the Horner
North - Thursday, December 7th from 8:30-9:30 am in The Gathering
Special speaker for parents - Clint Davis will share important information for parents about navigating technology and social media - he gives valuable information and practical steps to protect and prepare your entire family. Clint will be speaking at the North Campus on Monday, November 13th from 6:30-8:00 pm in The Gathering - invite a friend (you don’t have to be a PCA parent to attend). If you are unable to attend, this information is being recorded and will be released on our YouTube channel shortly.
In addition, check out the weekly Panetti Parent Parcel posts each week in the Minute With Mike email. These posts are written from a Biblical perspective and include several outstanding resources that will help you grow in your faith in a particular area of life.
PCA is here to equip parents, to lock arms with you on this incredible journey of training up kids to be the godly men and women that God has intended and designed them to be! As Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry, if I can serve you and your family, please reach out to me at dpanetti@prestonwoodchristian.org - it would be an honor to walk alongside you!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Erin Williams, LPC, PCA Upper School Counselor, Plano campus
APA defines anxiety as “an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes”.
Exists on a spectrum from everyday “good anxiety” to debilitating clinical anxiety
Anxiety that helps you get things done vs. anxiety that keeps you from doing things
Anxiety demands 2 things
- Certainty: “I have to know whatʼs going to happen next…and I want to control it!”
- Comfort: “I want to feel safe and comfortable…or else I want out!
Our bodies, our brains, our emotions weren’t meant to handle all the information all the time
A world that feels scary and threatening (it has always been like this but not we have access to see school shootings, wars, violence live on social media)
Social media
- “There’s not a single exception. All screen activities are linked to less happiness, and all non-screen activities are linked to more happiness.” Jean Twenge’s article in the Atlantic
- Designed to create anxiety, depression, angst, a sense of urgency, wanting to look & feel different, needing something new
- Teens (and adults) used to exist in small(ish) circles so maybe they were still struggling with comparison to neighbors, peers, teammates, etc. but now they are comparing themselves to EVERYONE, EVERYWHERE … including images, stories, personas that are fake/false/not real.
Parenting positives and negatives in handling anxiety…
- Negative
- High expectations and pressure to “succeed”
- Avoidance - worry says to STOP so you have to keep going
- Not setting limits, boundaries (your job as a parent is to keep your kids safe and healthy -> mind, body & soul)
- Projecting anxiety onto your children
- Anxiety is a learned behavior
- This doesn’t mean don’t be anxious but it does mean that as a parent you need to do the work! (generational trauma/sin)
- Positive
- Tolerate and normalize discomfort (instead of saving our kids from it)
- Learn by doing, failing, & succeeding
- Handle the uncertainty of life -> resiliency
- Be more flexible -> malleability
- Problem solve (vs. ruminate)
- Simplify life
- Healthy families: time together, positive communication, appreciation & affection
- Strong biblical foundation & limits on social media
- Teens being spiritually confused + largely influenced by social media = destructive thinking (Center for Bible Engagement)
Books for parents of teens with anxiety
- Parenting the New Teen in the Age of Anxiety (Dr. John Huffy)
Books for parents with anxiety
- Get Out of Your Head (Jenny Allen)
Podcasts
- Flusterclux with Lynn Lyons (non-Christian, but very practical stories that are helpful, more pointed toward clinical anxiety)
2 Corinthians 10:5 “We capture, like prisoners of war, every thought and insist that it bow in obedience to the Anointed One” (TPT).
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Kristan Williams (MS Principal Plano campus), Jillian Bryant (Assistant Athletic Director Plano campus), and Gabe Boyd (parent North campus)
NOTE: Clint Davis will be speaking to parents about all things relating to social media - Tuesday, Oct. 24th at the Plano campus and Monday, Nov. 13th at the North campus, both from 6:30-8:00 pm
How do we engage, as Christian parents, with PCA - from athletics to academics and all facets of the school…especially when we feel that there is an issue or concern that we wish to express and address?
General Principles for Parents:
- Train up your children to self-advocate, to speak for themselves where and when appropriate - and to start with expressing their concern directly to their coaches or teachers.
- If parents need to engage with their students, start the communication process with the coach or teacher directly - and make sure that all communications are presented in a Christ-like manner that honors the position and person you are communicating with.
- If you feel that an issue remains unresolved, you can work your way up to the next level after addressing it first with the coach or teacher.
Parents - in athletics, coaches are not going to talk about playing time or other athletes, but they will help you understand how your athlete can improve on skills or attitude.
Parents - ask your students questions about situations, but also learn to listen to other perspectives before you draw conclusions on issues.
Parents - what teachers and coaches observe at school might be different than what you observe at home; situations are different, expectations are different. If your student is caught or accused or doing something wrong, it is an opportunity to train your children to respond with humility and develop maturity in the process.
Parents - teachers and coaches are not perfect, either. Please extend them the same grace that you expect them to extend to your students. When mistakes are made by anyone, create an atmosphere of cooperation and allow for forgiveness and restoration. Conversations can be conducted without condemnation. When engaging in conversations and meetings, assume positive intent and look for a workable solution.
Parents - remember that you are modeling proper behavior and attitude for our children. If a mistake is made, apologize and seek reconciliation. It’s easier to forgive others when you’ve been forgiven much!
The Soul of Civility: Timeless Principles to Heal Society and Ourselves by Alexandra Hudson
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Daphney Harris, PCA North Librarian
The Texas Legislature recently passed a law that will hold book vendors accountable for the material that is being distributed in their books - if material is inappropriate for children, these vendors will not be allowed to sell their books to Texas public schools or libraries. This new law called the Removing Explicit and Adult Designated Educational Resources (READER) Act was signed into law by Texas governor Greg Abbott following this most recent legislative session.
PCA library on the Plano campus has recently finished an audit of their books to better ensure that all books on the shelves and available for PCA students are aligned with our mission and are age appropriate material and content. If you find material in a book that you find inappropriate, please let your librarian know so they can help best protect and prepare our students.
As a parent, how do I develop a love for reading in my children:
- Find resources/books that our children are interested in
- Avoid “bad” books that waste time and warp minds
- Start reading to your younger children
- As your children get older, engage in meaningful discussions about books that they are currently reading
- Set goals to help challenge your children to read - the practice of reading is important for the Christian student - God’s Word is written and if we can’t read well, we will be frustrated trying to draw close to God through Scripture
Amusing Ourselves to Death: Public Discourse in an Age of Show Business by Neil Postman
Parents, what are you reading? You model the importance of reading for your children - lead by example.
Parents, do a little research on finding good, clean, and appropriate books for your children - start with reading out to Dr. Books - her email is dharris@prestonwoodchristian.org
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. Connor Bales, pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church, North campus
To watch Dr. Bales sermon in its entirety, please visit click here.
Psalm 127:3-5
- Children are a heritage from the Lord - an inheritance, a gift from God!
- Our children belong to God, we are to steward them well.
- Children are not a burden, they are not our self-esteem.
Children are like arrows…how are arrows made, what are they designed to do:
- Arrows have a purpose, so too should our children
- Arrows get shaped, so too should our children
- Arrows get aimed, so too should our children
- Arrows get released, so too should our children
Deuteronomy 6
- Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a vision for God’s mission
- Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a devotion to God’s son (Jesus)
- Biblical parenting releases arrows that have a submission to God’s Word
- Biblical parenting releases arrows that have an instruction in God’s Word
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Coach Ryan Mitchell, Jaden Livings, Mikala Young, Macaria Spears, and Gillian Pitts
Last year the PCA Plano girls volleyball team finished an incredible 40-1 and capped the season off with the 5th TAPPS State Championship for PCA girls volleyball - read more about last season and their amazing run here.
There are some amazing young ladies on this team, featured on this podcast are the following:
- Jaden Livings, senior (committed to USC), pin hitter, outside, right side.
- Mikala Young, senior (committed to TCU), outsider/right side hitter.
- Macaria Spears, junior, outside hitter.
- Gillian Pitts, junior (committed to UHouston), libero.
ESPN will be hosting a showcase event on Friday, Oct. 6th in the evening at Prestonwood Christian Academy featuring four of the top girls volleyball teams in the country! If you can make this event, you won’t want to miss it! Also, check out the remainder of their TAPPS schedule for the year and come see them play!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. William Lane Craig and Lee Strobel
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Conference is scheduled for September 24-26 and has some outstanding speakers focused on the conference theme of “I Am” which examines the importance of the personhood and divinity of Jesus to our lives. Here is the schedule for the event held at Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 W. Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093.
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24
6:00 p.m. – Doors Open
6:30 p.m. – Welcome & Introductions
6:45 p.m. – Panel Discussion (Lee Strobel, Allie Beth Stuckey & Jeremiah Johnston)
8:15 p.m. – Dismissed
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
8:00 a.m. – Doors Open
8:30 a.m. – General Session (Lee Strobel, Tim Barnett)
10:45 a.m. – Breakout Session 1
11:30 a.m. – Lunch
1:00 p.m. – Breakout Session 2
1:50 p.m. – General Session (Mary Jo Sharp)
3:00 p.m. – Dismissed
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26
8:00 a.m. – Doors Open
8:30 a.m. – General Session (Justin Brierley, William Lane Craig & Jeremiah Johnston)
11:45 a.m. – Dismissed
This episode features interviews with two of the conference speakers - Dr. William Lane Craig and Lee Strobel. Bill Craig has two earned doctorate degrees and his 1994 apologetic book Reasonable Faith serves as the basis of his ministry of the same name, which provides “an intelligent, articulate, and uncompromising yet gracious Christian perspective on the most important issues concerning the truth of the Christian faith today.” Lee Strobel is an atheist-turned Christian and best-selling author of more than 40 books, including The Case for Christ, that have sold 14 million copies and won numerous awards. Lee currently serves as the founding director of the Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University. Lee is also releasing his new book Is God Real: Exploring the Ultimate Question of Life and will be speaking about this issue at the conference.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Lauren Aulenbach, Director of Annual Funds, Megan Rogers, Director of Development Operations, and Alex Bellamy, Director of Alumni Relations
The donations made to PCA during NTGD go to the PCA Fund - and these gifts help PCA maintain that margin of excellence that PCA has secured and maintained for the past 26 years! NTGD is Thursday, September 21st - but you can give NOW - no need to wait until Sept. 21st.
The goal this year is to raise $500,000 across the PCA system, $60,000 at the North campus alone! Each campus has grade level challenges based on the greatest percentage of participants! We want everyone to give something, no matter the amount!
To make a donation to PCA, visit the North Texas Giving Day website and search for Prestonwood Christian Academy!
PCA alumni have the opportunity to support the continued vision and mission of PCA - remember, “Once a lion, always a lion!” PCA loves our alumni and pray that they will continue to appreciate the investment that PCA made in their journey…and look forward to those incredible alumni returning some of that investment back into the PCA community!
Thank you to all those who give to support the mission and vision of PCA - you have been blessed to be a blessing - and your generosity is appreciated!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. Chad Nichols, US Principal, Plano campus and Mr. Greg Wright, US Principal, North campus
PCA’s Minimester is an extension of the PCA classroom and enhances the mission of PCA giving students an opportunity to grow in their Biblical worldview by embracing Biblical truth, striving for academic excellence, and modeling Christlike leadership to influence their homes, churches, and communities for Christ! The entire PCA community has been blessed in so many ways over the years because of the experiences that students and faculty have encountered during Minimester and we are thrilled to be able to offer this opportunity again for PCA students both at the North and Plano campuses.
Minimester offerings for the North campus Upper School students include the following:
- Local - Celina and South Dallas
- Domestic - Kentucky, Colorado Springs, and South Florida
- International - England
Minimester offerings for the Plano campus Upper School students include the following:
- Local - Local Missions, Parent Led Missions, Parent Led College Visits, Internships
- Domestic - Puerto Rico, Abilene, Boston, Navajo Reservation in NM, NYC, OKC, Las Vegas, and Denver
- International - Amazon, Uganda, Costa Rica, France, DR (basketball teams), Germany,
- Mexico (girls only), Greece, Romania, and Cuba
The students and faculty at PCA covet your prayers and support for the Minimester program and opportunities.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. Jason Snyder, Discipleship Pastor, and Jason Mick, NextGen Minister, Prestonwood Baptist Church
Why is going to church essential in the life of a disciple of Christ?
- The church resources and equips Christ-followers to grow in their personal faith journeys
- The church gives the opportunity for believers to serve and minister to the needs of the body of Christ - don’t rob someone of the blessing that God has given you!
- The church gives us the opportunity to model for our children that we value Christ - your kids need to see you as you worship, as you study the Word of God, as you listen to corporate teaching/preaching - James reminds us that faith without works is dead!
Men, we need to “model the mission” and lead by example!
What is expected of a member?
- Be in worship - we are instructed to gather together as the body of Christ. Bring your worship with you!
- Be involved in community - don’t journey in isolation, get plugged in to a LifeGroup
- Be available to serve the church and the community through the life of the church!
Text the word “Serve” to either 74788 for the Plano Campus or 55125 for the North Campus
Compare your “screen time” to the time that you spend serving the Lord, ministering to others, investing in your own spiritual growth and maturity!
Text the word “Groups” to 74788 (Plano) or 55125 (North) to find out about various LifeGroups that exist for you to connect with!
Wednesday evenings are filled with incredible opportunities for discipleship training - Crew, Hype, AWANA (Plano), JHigh Midweek, High School Midweek for students and several different offerings for adults, including several LifeGroups that meet Wednesday evenings. Check out HERE what is being offered for adults at the Plano and North campuses.
Women’s Ministry under the leadership of Tasha Calvert is starting a study of Nehemiah this fall on both campuses - click here to find out more. Tasha also leads the women’s ministry’s podcast called Digging In with Tasha Calvert. Bible study is not a class we take, but a rhythm that we keep!
Also check out the Friday Morning Men’s Bible study at both the Plano and North campuses.
On Sunday mornings, all three campuses - Plano, North, and Espanol - are teaching the Distinctives of a Disciple - the basics of walking out the life of a follower of Jesus!
Resources from Prestonwood called HomeLife are available for you as parents as well - check them out!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Maria Bower, Director of Spiritual Development for PCA Plano and Josiah Isom, Director of Spiritual Development for PCA North
The Plano Spiritual Development Team is led by Maria Bower and includes Coach Stephen Bryant and Courtney Caldwell. The North Spiritual Development Team is led by Josiah Isom and Megan Gover was recently added to the team as well. The Spiritual Development teams are responsible for all things related to the spiritual training of PCA students including retreats, chapels, and some upcoming parent panels at both the North and Plano campuses be looking for more information on these parent panels coming soon!
Parents, don’t forget to take a minute to provide some helpful feedback about the podcast here.
Also, reminder that The Journey podcast is now on the @PrestonwoodChristian YouTube Channel - you can listen AND watch each episode!
Parents please encourage your students to take their Bibles to chapel - and be engaged, set their hearts to be receptive to what the Lord is telling them!
Final word of encouragement - parents please be praying for Maria Bower and Josiah Isom and their respective teams at both PCA campuses!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Dr. Shannon Cole and Dr. Clarence Williams
Just a quick celebration - this is our 100th episode of The Journey - thanks for listening and for all those who made this podcast possible!!! And, reminder that you can listen, subscribe and rate the podcast!
Dr. Cole is an individual who loves the Lord, loves learning…and loves life! While serving as Head of School for the PCA Plano campus, she will continue working with her curriculum team that serves as an umbrella for all learning at both campuses.
Dr. Williams is an individual of highest integrity and competency as an educational leader - an “awesome administrator and a man of integrity.” He is also a man of faithful prayer and devotion to the Lord.
The Journey PCA Parent Podcast Feedback - if you would like to share your thoughts on past and recommendations for future podcasts, please check out this form - or to leave some parent feedback that administration will consider.
Civility Clause - parents, there is a new process being implemented to help further Kingdom-minded communication between parents and PCA faculty and administration. The desire is to make sure that not only are issues and situations aired and addressed, but also that all communications are conducted in a Christ-centered manner, treating others as you desire to be treated, honoring another in brotherly love.
MAP - Measure of Academic Progress. PCA utilizes the MAP testing at several times and stages during the year to make adjustments to the material they are teaching to ensure the greatest competency of their students. MAP scores are sent to parents for their evaluation as well.
Dr. Cole - PCA last year had 4 National Merit Scholars, which is significantly higher as a percentage of student population as compared to other schools in the area, both private and public. And PCA students scored at least a 3 on AP tests given at a rate of over 90%, which is very high.
Dr. Williams - we’re not just preparing students to get into college, we’re preparing students to be successful once they get there. And we have missed the mark at PCA if we’re only preparing students academically; that’s why Bible is a core content and a subject for PCA students. We are preparing students to be successful in life, and you can’t do that outside of a relationship with Jesus Christ and knowing His Word for your life!
PCA North is celebrating their 10th year! Starting with 52 students, PCA North now has over 600 students and just had their first graduating class in 2023!
Faculty Senate Council and a student-led council to offer feedback are things coming soon!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent, Prestonwood System of Schools
Be the Light
Matthew 5:14
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16
Dan’s new role at PCA is now the Director of Parent Engagement & Ministry - we’ll be discovering more about this in upcoming podcasts!
Two Things to Consider from This Year’s Theme:
- God wants us to shine brightly for Him! How are you doing as a reflection of God’s glory to a dark and dying world?
- Light exposes what is in the darkness - in the world and in my own heart and life!
Dr. Goddard - the Word of God is our “lightsaber”!
Dr. Goddard - we need more than a “firework” faith that shines brightly…then fades away quickly. We need to develop a sustaining faith that burns brightly by the power of the Holy Spirit!
Parents, you need to be plugged into the Word of God with the people of God (church) so that you can grow into the men and women of God! And what you have been given freely (God’s grace), give to others freely!
Parents, check out this and future episodes of The Journey on PCA’s YouTube channel as well. Please share this podcast and the YouTube video with your friends - it’s a great marketing tool for PCA and an excellent equipping opportunity from a Biblical worldview for others!
Dr. Goddard - prayer life has changed from “Lord let them have a great day” to “Lord, as we face adversity, let us bring glory to you.” Lean into the difficult and not on your own understanding…but in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Chef Shaun Vaughn, SAGE Dining
Learn more about SAGE Dining Services on their website - and make sure you download the Touch of SAGE app.
Chef Shaun has been serving the PCA community through SAGE Dining Services for the past 6 years - he and his team provide incredible meals, soups, salads, drinks, and desserts for our students and staff at the Plano campus and hopefully will be providing the same level of service and excellence at the North campus soon!
Please encourage your students to TRY the wide variety of incredible offerings - including their awesome fruits and vegetables! Also, please remind your students that we are all stewards of the resources that God has entrusted to us - take what you can eat, be reasonable and fair with what you take (careful with all those desserts!), and make sure you clean up after yourself by throwing away disposable items and placing plates, cups, and silverware in the appropriate locations to be washed. It is an incredible privilege to share a good meal with good friends, a privilege that we need to remind our students about their responsibilities.
Parents, just as there are several ways to voice your concerns or desires to SAGE about various menu items, there are also opportunities to bless the SAGE employees for the great work they do day in and day out! Take a moment and write a note to the various SAGE employees, toss in a gift card, stop by and eat with your students and greet the SAGE dining staff in person - remember, you’ve been blessed to be a blessing!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd
The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers.
The “family dinner” is one of the strategies for building a meaningful relationship and connection between parents and children - don’t take this important concept for granted.
Bedtime routines can also be tremendously valuable in establishing and maintaining a meaningful connection with your child.
“It takes a saint to not be alienated, but with our peer-oriented children, sainthood may be what we are called to. If that seems unnatural, it’s because it is unnatural” (HOTYK). Establishing a meaningful relationship with your kids isn’t just UNnatural, it’s SUPERnatural!!!
John 17 parenting - as Jesus prayed and let his disciples hear how he spoke to his Father about them, we need to let our children hear us pray for them, about them, with them…so they can hear what we think about them!
Parents, be careful of “sleepovers” with friends - your children can learn a lot of bad things at homes and with “friends” who are not on the same page as you are!
Parents, understand the incredible impact that other voices can have on the lives of your children - coaches, teachers, pastors, etc…and if you’re one of those individuals, make sure you take that responsibility seriously to speak life into those around you!
Parents, our primary responsibility is to raise our children so that they are connected to and find their identity in Christ! If you’re connected to Christ and His larger story for your life, you’ll want to share that with your kids…and your kids will want to be a part of something bigger than themselves!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd
The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers.
What are the dangers of a child being attached to peers more than to their parents? Whomever a child is most attached to will have the greatest impact on their lives.
Peers are not accountable for their impact on your children - you, as parents, are! “When peers replace parents as the dominant attachment figures, they become our child’s models without, of course, assuming any responsibility for the end result” (HOTYK).
“Sex becomes an instrument of peer attachment. They are using sex with their peers to try to satisfy their hunger for connection and for affection” (HOTYK). The book is honest about the power of sex to connect two individuals - and the pain that comes with separation when that relationship or activity ends.
Bullying wouldn’t be that big of a deal if the child is more concerned with what his father (in our case, our Heavenly Father) thinks of us!
When you lose your attachment with your children, they’ll go and attach and listen to someone else. Getting that attachment relationship back with your children will take time and significant effort.
As parents, do we “over schedule” our children? Attachment isn’t proximity, it’s intentional investment into the lives of our children.
“Children don’t need friends, they need parents, grandparents, adults who will assume the responsibility to hold on to them” (HOTYK).
A “friend” is someone who has your best interest in mind - who is willing to speak truth into your life and make whatever sacrifice is necessary to help you be the best version of yourself. Your children need friends like this and so do you!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Katie McDonald, Julie Hildebrand, and Gabe Boyd
The book we all read is titled Hold On to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More than Peers written by Gordon Neufeld, Ph.D., and Gabor Mate, M.D. This is NOT a recommendation of this book, but an in-depth exploration of the concepts of “attachment” parenting that are raised and an exploration of the idea that youth need to be more connected to their parents than to their peers.
“Attachment” parenting addresses the importance of the relationship between parents and their children as well as children and other things, especially the connection of children with their peers.
Parents who are looking to foster and encourage peer relationships might need to reconsider the importance of these relationships - the MOST important relationship/connection that your children need to have secure is the relationship with you as their parent!
Parents, we should want our children to “attach” to us IF we are attached to Christ - as Paul said, Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1).
Josh McDowell, “Rules without relationship leads to rebellion.” When a child is acting unruly, these behavioral issues are really, at their core, relationship issues.
Benefit of having your children at PCA is that your child should have multiple attachments of like-minded, Christ-centered people in their lives!
The secret of parenting is not what the parent does, but who the parent is, in the life of a child - that’s a very profound point in this book!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Alycia Wood, apologist with The C.S. Lewis Society
The C.S. Lewis Society was organized by Princeton University students in 1975, as a guest-speaker forum for the campus community to hear Christian scholars articulate a biblical perspective on topics of wide public concern. After years of fruitful ministry, the Society was re-launched on the campus of Trinity College of Florida in 1988 as a fellowship of those committed to explaining and defending the Christian faith internationally. Our outreach has focused especially on university campuses and nations that are dominated by skeptical attitudes toward the core truths of Christianity.
What is a Woman? documentary by Matt Walsh - so many people ask Matt, “Why do you even care?” Alycia replies:
- We should, as Christians, grieve with those who grieve, care about those who are hurting and need help.
- The Western mindset is very individualistic…but the Eastern mindset includes the sense that what you do affects your family and the entire community! When others struggle with gender dysphoria and make decisions to transition, their decision does affect others - including you and me! God has designed us for community and we each have a responsibility to help others to the best of our ability - to speak truth in love is an important part of that responsibility.
Parents, consider these things if your son or daughter is talking about gender dysphoria:
- You are the parent, don’t just let their “feelings” override the facts about their God-designed sexuality - dig into the issues they are facing, ask questions.
- Social media can be filled with destructive voices that fill the minds of young people with lies and deception - help your children learn to tune out false narratives and discern truth from fiction.
- Build your “support” group of like-minded, Christ-centered folks to do life with. For parents whose children are dealing with transgender ideology, Alycia recommends a group called 4thWaveNow (a community of people who question the medicalization of gender-atypical youth) for a challenging perspective.
- Get professional help for your child - someone who is actually going to deal with the mental health aspects, not just transition your children from their current gender to another!
Alycia recommends that you watch this powerful and very disturbing video from destransitioner Chloe Cole on the devastating effects of transgender surgery.
Alycia also recommends that you watch this video of Jordan Peterson speaking with detransitioner Chloe Cole about the harmful effects of transgender ideology.
- You may have to switch schools (if you’re not at PCA) or friend groups, etc. The “social contagion” aspect of this is real - change the environment and the narrative in which your child is swimming.
Why I no longer use transgender pronouns - and why you shouldn’t either - by Rosaria Butterfield - Article and Video
Alycia recommends Jordan Peterson’s video interview of Miriam Grossman, M.D. called Parental Trauma in a World of Gender Insanity.
The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Dr. Carl Trueman (or the shorter version of the same material: Strange New World).
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Alycia Wood, apologist with The C.S. Lewis Society
The C.S. Lewis Society was organized by Princeton University students in 1975, as a guest-speaker forum for the campus community to hear Christian scholars articulate a biblical perspective on topics of wide public concern. After years of fruitful ministry, the Society was re-launched on the campus of Trinity College of Florida in 1988 as a fellowship of those committed to explaining and defending the Christian faith internationally. Our outreach has focused especially on university campuses and nations that are dominated by skeptical attitudes toward the core truths of Christianity.
Today, in some countries, misgendering a person (using a pronoun that is different than what another person prefers) can actually result in criminal penalties!
You need to understand how the world is using words - “sex” is limited to your biology, “gender” is how you feel about things or how you identify.
Excellent Resources:
- Irreversible Damage: The Transgender Craze Seducing Our Daughters by Abigail Shrier
- The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Excessive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution by Dr. Carl Trueman
- What is a Woman? documentary by Matt Walsh
As of 2021, 1.8% of people under 18 years of age identified as transgender. Over 80% of these individuals were born female, lived with their parents, and had zero history of gender dysphoria as children. The majority of the girls that are transitioning have one or more of the following characteristics: depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism - and about half of these girls were engaged in self harm before any type of gender dysphoria. This is a mental health issue that is not being treated properly. Also, about 65% of these individuals greatly increased their social media usage just before coming out as transgender.
Rapid Onset Gender Dysphoria - “all of a sudden” groups of young people are feeling that their gender does not match their assigned sex…
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Connor Bales, Pastor, Prestonwood North Campus
How can a young man keep his way pure (how to be a godly success)? Listen and learn as Dr. Bales shares some “gold nuggets” of wisdom from Psalm 119:9-16:
- By guarding it according to your word. Filter everything through the lens of Scripture - relationships, college, social media, church…let God’s Word inform you on literally everything! Which means…that you need to know, read, and study your Bible!
- Go ALL IN…“with my whole heart I seek you.” When you live your life with Christ at the center, that’s your “best hand!”
- Study and learn God’s word - “I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” The Word of God is both a window through which to see the world…and a mirror by which to see yourself!
- Stay teachable (coachable). “Blessed are you, O Lord; teach me your statutes.” The more teachable we are, the more God can teach us! Humility is essential for the Christian journey!
- Speak God’s truth. “With my lips I declare all the rules of your mouth.” Big difference between “I think that…” and “God’s Word says…”
- Find your greatest joy in Jesus! “In the way of your testimonies I delight as much as in all riches.” Know the transcendent joy that comes from connection with God through Christ…which is far greater than temporary circumstantial happiness.
- Give your thought life to God. “I will meditate on your precepts and fix my eyes on your ways.” Consider the spiritual disciplines…and practice them, they are there to draw you closer to God!
- Define genuine joy, seek after it, don’t forget it when you arrive! “I will delight in your statutes; I will not forget your word.”
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
Find out who represents YOU in Congress and the Texas Legislature HERE.
Important legislative initiatives that were addressed during the 88th Legislative Session:
- Ended government-mandated COVID restrictions
- Funded border security
- Removed porn from public schools - check out HB 900.
- Banned DEI in higher education - to find out more about the Diversity, Opportunity, and Inclusion efforts in the State of Virginia, read this.
- Returned election law violations to a felony
- Holding facilities accountable if they host a “drag show” for minors
- Ended gender modification on minors
Governor Abbott is looking to call at least two “Special Sessions” on the following issues:
- Tax relief for Texas citizens - lowering the tax rate for your property tax rate and/or adding a larger homestead exemption.
- Parental rights in education (otherwise known as “school choice”)
The Texas State House of Representatives also heard evidence on the impeachment of Attorney General Ken Paxton and voted 121-23 to impeach him. His case will be taken to the Senate for a trial next where the rules require a ⅔ vote to convict.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Michael Craven, Vice President for Equipping and Mobilization at The Colson Center for Christian Worldview
Colson Fellows: Gain Wisdom, Live Faithfully, Act Courageously.
What problem does the Colson Center remedy - the privatization of the Christian faith!
Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World by Tom Holland
4 Questions You Should Be Asking:
- What is good that I can preserve, protect, and promote?
- What is missing that I can provide?
- What is evil that I must stand against?
- What is broken that I can repair and restore?
3 Institutions Critical to the Future:
- The family
- K-12 Christian education
- The church
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Katie McDonald, PCA’s Senior Director of Marketing and Communications
Parents, thank you for listening to The Journey, PCA’s parent podcast - we just went over 10,000 downloads for the podcast, which is awesome!
Parents, YOU are our best means of communicating all that is happening here at PCA - and we want to hear from you - we would love for you to take our PCA Podcast Parent Survey and share about how and when you listen as well as ideas for future episodes that you’d like to hear. And, we want to encourage you to share these podcasts with your friends, family, coworkers, etc…
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
PCA Alumni: Sabeen Toranian (‘19), Colson Burchard (‘20), and Sophie Panetti (‘22)
Sabeen recently graduated from The University of Texas at Austin and will be heading to medical school in the fall. Colson will be a senior at Texas A&M University and is studying supply chain management. Sophie just finished her freshman year at The University of Arkansas and is studying apparel merchandising.
Preparing students for college includes far more than just equipping them to be ready and successful academically - which PCA does very well - but also includes preparing students for the college culture from a spiritual perspective as well.
Parents, make sure you get your students plugged into a good Christian ministry and church as soon as possible. Many universities have opportunities for Christian students to meet and connect the summer before their freshman year - the Prestonwood Student Ministry has a great list of outstanding churches and ministries on the campuses of several of the colleges that PCA graduates attend.
Great take-aways:
- Determine who you want to be before heading off to college - or you will be “tossed to and fro” (Eph. 4:14) by the waves of culture and the winds of change.
- As a Christian, you can navigate the fraternity/sorority world with integrity of character in your Christian walk.
- Look for good Christian community - it might be in Greek life, or in a Christian-based community group, or in a church - but you need a solid community to stand boldly for Christ in a hostile environment.
- While in college, being a camp counselor for a wonderful Christian camp is an amazing experience and can really help a young person grow in their faith as they lead others! Other than the normal Christian camps, there are great Christian organizations that are specifically on college campuses like Student Mobilization.
- The greatest weapon and opportunity you have as parents to equip, prepare, and fight for your children - in college and beyond - is with prayer! PCA joins you in praying for your students here and as they launch out into the world!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Hillary Morgan Ferrer
Mama Bear Apologetics: Empowering Your Kids to Challenge Cultural Lies
Mama Bear Apologetics Guide to Sexuality: Empowering Your Kids to Understand and Live Out God’s Design
A “Mama Bear” will do things for her children that she wouldn’t even do for herself. Moms are on the front lines for spiritual warfare - the primary person that children ask questions of - moms, you need to be equipped and prepared!
If the enemy can’t attack God directly, he’ll attack His image-bearers - that’s us!
How do we talk to our kids about sex…how about defining sex in the category of “things that need to be guarded” or “things that are valuable.”
Parents, questions are coming…if your children are not asking you their questions, they’re asking someone…the conversations around the dinner table or while driving in the car - those are the most powerful times to engage and equip your children!
R.O.A.R. Technique:
Recognize the message
Offer objective discernment
Argue for a healthy approach
Reinforce through discussion, discipleship, and prayer
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Monek’ Smith, wife and mother of two PCA students, founder of MS. Cookie Co.
PCA mom Monek’ Smith has an interesting side hustle - she makes cookies, but that’s sort of an undersell - if we were completely honest, she crafts tiny masterpieces of culinary confections - seriously insane cookies and not only look amazing, but taste great, too! Listen as Monek’ shares her journey from Texas A&M grad to cookie queen - then check out the gallery on her website of some of her incredible creations! Monek’ loves PCA and loves making cookies - but remember this is a side hustle, so if you reach out and she says no, don’t take it personally - she said no to me as well - her family comes first!
mscookieco.tx@gmail.com
MS Cookie Co Facebook page
@mscookieco.tx
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guests: Brittnye Schroeder and Trisha Ruzynski
PCA Prays is a parent-led organization that covers PCA students, faculty and families in prayer. Each grade level has a prayer coordinator and has monthly meetings where parents can gather together and pray for their students by name. You can also find out information on MyPCA on the PCA Spiritual Life button or on the parent-led Facebook page for each grade level. Finally, look for your weekly email from PCA Prays asking for prayer requests that can be shared and prayed for either by the leadership team, the entire grade, or all of the PCA Prays community.
E.M. Bounds on Prayer
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Mark Oestreicher
MarkO is a partner in The Youth Cartel, providing services and resources for individual youth workers and organizations. He has been married to Jeannie for 30 years, and has two great kids: Riley (22) and Max (18). Here's The Youth Cartel's website. twitter: @markosbeard instagram: @whyismarko
You can listen to MarkO on Five Minutes with Marko on YouTube.
MarkO - the four years following puberty is the most important developmental period in the life of a person - the most significant changes (that a person is aware of) - and changes in several different aspects of their life - physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual.
Educational theory - stuff you don’t talk about is called your “null curriculum” - and what you don’t talk about ends up teaching your children as much as what you do!!!
Five areas of significant change in the life of a pre-teen:
- Physical - obvious, and most teens hate this developmental process. Parents, you need to have a ministry of normalizing this experience.
- Cognitive - we move from being limited as pre-teens to having the ability to think in the abstract, gives the opportunity to speculate, the “what if” and “why” questions and adding a “third person perspective”
- Emotional
- Relational
- Spiritual
The dominant perspective of young people is that they are broken or incapable - which is why adolescence has been extended to almost 20 years long! Instead of expecting young people to mature, we make their journey easier and expect less and less of them.
MarkO - do you see teenagers as a problem to be solved or a wonder to behold?!
Birth-4 are years of discovery
Ages 5-7 are years of testing
Ages 8-11 are years of concluding (they have everything figured out!)
Ages 11-14 are years of discovery (again!)
Ages 15-20 are years are testing
Ages 20-30 are years of concluding (again)
When your child expresses a doubt, we can see that shifting in their brain, testing out new concepts and ideas, moving from literal thinking to abstract considerations. Doubt is not the enemy, but unexamined doubt can be dangerous. Parents, lean into those doubts and help your children wrestle with their doubts.
Understanding Your Young Teen: Practical Wisdom for Parents by Mark Oestreicher
A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Teenage Brains: Why They Act the Way They Do by Mark Oestreicher
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Jamie Cantrell
How do we train our children to have a healthy lifestyle of good, nutritious food and an active lifestyle?
- First, assess what you are currently doing in terms of food decisions - look for simple “wins” and adjustments you can make.
- Second, audit your own eating and exercise habits. What do you currently have in your pantry and refrigerator? What is one thing you can begin to replace with a better option?
- Pay attention to the 4 Ps:
- Packaged
- Preserved
- Processed
- Prepared
- Lack of preparation will end up costing you more - eating out is expensive!
- Check your SUGAR intake - you want to pay attention to “added grams of sugar” - aim to stay 25 grams of added sugar per day or below
- SAGE dining provides delicious varieties for students that are healthy and nutritious - don’t let your students tell you they “don’t like SAGE” if they aren’t willing to try the food!
- Parents - why are we so willing to go the extra mile to help our students in so many different areas, but unwilling to address their nutritional needs?
- Parents - don’t just “take away” things your kids like, add in good, healthy alternatives and begin to train their taste buds for something other than sugary snacks
- Jamie - “if it’s made from a plant, eat it; if it’s developed from a plant, don’t”
Recommended recipe resources:
@fedandfit
@thedefineddish
@halfbakedharvest
@healthygirlkitchen
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Pam Merryman, PCA US English teacher
Pam and her sister were the first two students enrolled in First Baptist Academy in Dallas, TX. She not only graduated from First Academy, she became the first alumni to return and teach there as well.
“I never demand any more of my students than I’m willing to give myself.” Dr. Merryman
Dr. Merryman was the force behind bringing Capstone to PCA. Capstone is a senior project of three different papers around one particular literary piece. Seniors write a philosophical paper, an historical paper, and a literary analysis of a book that they choose. Then, the final piece, is looking at the book through a Biblical worldview, the lens of God’s Word, and in light of the five pillars of the Portrait of a PCA Graduate and what they’ve learned in their time at PCA.
Portrait of a PCA Graduate:
Reverence For God
An Eternal Perspective
Christ-like Humility
Scholastic Excellence
Critical Thinking
Remember my affliction and my wanderings, the wormwood and the gall! My soul continually remembers it and is bowed down within me. But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:19-23
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Christine Callander, MSN, APRN, FNP-C
From the earliest age, NP Callander loved playing doctor with her dolls and stuffed animals. However, after looking at many career opportunities, Christine felt called into the healthcare field. She first graduated as a paramedic and then graduated from the University of Texas in Arlington with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Following an exemplary career as an emergency room pediatric nurse at Texas Children's Hospital in Houston, TX, she graduated with honors with her Master of Science in Nursing as a Nurse Practitioner from Texas Tech. Throughout her career as a Nurse and Nurse Practitioner, she has always sought to provide the care she expects for her own family. It's this highly individualized treatment and evidence-based medicine with a holistic focus that NP Callander offers to each patient at Pure Health Texas.
In addition to her calling as a healthcare provider, NP Callander is a loving wife to her husband, Shawn, and a devoted mother to their three wonderful children, Brenna, Case, and Ainsley. When not in the office caring for patients, you can find her exercising, watching her kids participate in numerous sports, attending church, or volunteering at Young Life & Sky Ranch Summer Camps.
Christine@PurehealthTexas.com
Office number: 972-332-1930
“Gut health” is a huge component of our physical and emotional well being - many issues that manifest themselves in other areas - including acne - are tied to our gut issues! In addition, some of our food allergies can be traced back to our gut health.
Chef Shaun with Sage Dining does a great job of taking several dietary issues and food allergies into consideration in preparing all the selections for the PCA cafeteria.
How do we know if our students are struggling with gluten or dairy? You might see a difference in their temperament/behavior or it might be a physical outbreak. Food allergies can change as we age or different situations can alter the way we absorb foods.
Stress and anxiety are issues affecting a large percentage of our students - one out of three students struggle with anxiety. Mental health is such an important attribute of our lives - everything flows from the brain downward. How can we better protect the mental health of our children?! Look for your kids being overly tired, sleeplessness, snippy attitudes - is this hormonally related or stress activated?
Bedtime routines are important to help get the best sleep possible. Blue light from iPads or cell phones actually keep us awake even when we’re tired! Don’t let your child use their mobile phone as their alarm clock! Don’t plug your phones to charge near your head at night!
Try to protect “family dinner time” and use that time for good conversations. Car rides are also great places to engage in meaningful conversation! Ask questions about their day, about how they feel about things and different situations, etc.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Rick Green
Find out more about the incredible work of Rick Green at the Patriot Academy website.
This episode examines the recent events at Stanford Law School where students rudely refused to listen to a presentation by federal District Judge Kyle Duncan. Judge Duncan was invited to speak to students at Stanford Law by students at The Federalist Society, a student group at most major law schools. Judge Duncan was unable to deliver his comments and the administration of Stanford Law School used this opportunity to berate Judge Duncan saying that his very presence took away students’ rights and his speech denied the humanity of others. To watch a person's phone recording of some of what transpired that evening, watch this video. To hear an exclusive interview with Congressman Mike Johnson on his Truth Be Told podcast with federal District Judge Kyle Duncan, check out the episode here.
The lack of civility in society today should be a concern to all liberty-loving individuals - regardless of your political positions or attitudes, the freedom to disagree is at the very heart of liberty in this country.
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute (BWi) examined the lack of civility two years ago - check out some of the incredible speakers and the wisdom they shared with our students at the 2021 BWi conference titled Civility.
Sorry about the strange ending to this episode - instead of editing it out, I left it to allow you to hear our exchange as Rick jumped from our interview to his live Patriot Academy show!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Kailee Lockette, North Dallas Christian Counseling
(214) 577-8334
1404 Gables Court
Suite 203
Plano, TX 75075
info@NDCcounseling.com
Kailee holds the following certificates from the American School Counselor Association:
- Mental Health Specialist Training
- Students with Special Needs Training
- Trauma and Crisis Management Specialist Training
And Kailee is a member of:
- TCA - Texas Counselors Association
- ABC - Association of Biblical Counselors
Kailee likes to think through our life as a tree and we often examine the fruit of our lives, but she is also interested in the external factors that affect your life and the quality of the soil in which you’re living.
What are your desires that have turned into demands? Positive things that God wants to give you can become something negative in your life.
“Mistakes” in parenting can be opportunities to show your children your need for God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness. This can be used as a connection instead of a condemnation.
Saint, sufferer, sinner - we are at various times all of these.
Kailee often talks about our limits and our capacities. And while God is unlimited, we are NOT…a lot of stress and anxiety is because people are operating outside of their capacity! This may be why we see adults who are “stuck” in the developmental stages because of the trauma that people experience and they haven’t been able to “work through” tremendously difficult aspects of their lives.
Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce by Elizabeth Marquardt
Our culture isn’t comfortable with suffering and the “long hard road” of healing, which is why so many people short circuit the journey to the help that God offers as one goes through the painful process of true healing, forgiveness, and redemption.
Even parenting today is short circuiting the training and development of our children - the hard road of learning patience, self-control, perseverance, etc…today so many parents are medicating their children with prescriptions or technology that bring about a temporary sense of calm and tranquility, but don’t help train a child to learn how to self-regulate their emotions.
Attachment theory - according to Kailee, the way that your parents attached to you trained and modeled a way for you to understand yourself and the world around you. Scripture tells us that our primary job as parents is to “attach” our children to God Himself, which is made possible by the sacrifice of Jesus Christ who lived the life we couldn’t and died the death we deserved, to give us the opportunity to be reconciled to God.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Johnny Farr, Minister to MA2 and Marriage and Families
ONE Marriage Workshop - “How to Biblically Manage Your Finances”
Friday, April 14, 5:30–8:00 pm, Plano Campus
Saturday, April 15, 5:30–8:00 pm, North Campus
Prestonwood - all things “Marriage and Family”
Marriage tips and encouragement - text Marriage to 74788
HomeLife is a resource to help families build faith at home. Whether you’re single or married, have young children or are an empty-nester, you will find practical resources and step-by-step guidance to help nurture faith at home—tailored to meet the unique needs of today’s family.
Mentors4Couples combines Christ-centered, biblical marriage principles with applied training that helps to strengthen marriages. Couples desiring marriage discipleship (mentees) are paired with one of our godly and vulnerable, trustworthy mentor couples. Together, you walk through a curriculum to enrich your marriage. Your mentors will help you build the marriage you’ve always wanted through a six-to-nine-month discipleship process.
Between Two Worlds: The Inner Lives of Children of Divorce by Elizabeth Marquardt
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Daryl Jones
Daryl is a dynamic speaker, incredible athlete, outstanding husband and father, and faithful man of God who has been blessed to have served on staff with a number of excellent churches over the years and is now the pastor at The Rock Fellowship in Miami, FL. Daryl and his wife Kamica have seven children and he recently birthed another “baby” (as Daryl calls it) into the family - his outstanding book called Youth Matter: Kingdom Development, Kingdom Impact. This book is written to young people, but is an excellent resource for all ages to use to train youth to understand their value in God’s eyes and their role as part of God’s plan to change the world for the cause of Christ.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Clint Davis, M.S., LPC, CSAT, CCTP, EMDR Provider, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist
Clint Davis Counseling & Integrative Wellness
Locations in Shreveport, North Bossier, South Bossier, Ruston, and Monroe, LA
Office number 318.562.6903
Our children are being exposed to pornography and sexual content through social media and we need to prepare and equip them to navigate this world. Clint recommends that we speak openly and honestly about their bodies in a healthy way (the “discipleship version”) before the world begins to teach them in an unhealthy way.
The average age that children begin viewing pornography in America is between the ages of 8-11 years old.
Less than 82% of parents have rules and regulations concerning technology use. While your child may not be looking for pornography, pornography is looking for them!
Social Media Plan:
Step 1 - you have to do this as a community! Find some other like-minded parents who are willing to make the same decisions about social media.
Step 2 - try to treat the cell phone like a driver’s license. For your younger children, show them how to use the cell phone by using yours. Around 13-14 years old, you begin to allow them to “learn” how to use social media as you monitor and watch them - constantly having conversations about their choices. Then around 16 years old, you can allow your children to have a cell phone on their own and begin to navigate social media.
Today 86% of pornography is graphic violence against women and men.
Research shows that 98% of teens by age 15 have seen pornography.
The link of graphic violence with the sexual development of a child is causing intense damage to the life and mind of those exposed to these images and depictions.
Asking Why with Clint Davis - to listen to more of these valuable conversations with Clint on a wider variety of topics. Here is the link for Apple Podcasts.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: John Morgan and Candice Meyers
John Morgan is the VP of Ministry Programs and has been a part of Sky Ranch since 1988. John was the song guy for Sky Ranch, a counselor, and the Sky 3 & 4 Camp Manager before moving into his current position. John’s family, his wife Amanda, and their four children, are his most important ministry as he loves being a husband and a dad.
Candice serves as the VP of Sales and Marketing and her relationship with Sky Ranch began in 2004. A seasoned speaker, singer and songwriter, Candice was a former Miss Kansas with a passion for authentic and transparent ministry and a heart for moms who are navigating their children through today’s rapidly changing culture. Candice is married to Rope Myers, a World Champion rodeo cowboy and ordained minister. They live in East Texas and are parents of four children.
Sky Ranch
- Summer Camps for children going into Kindergarten (Day Camps for the younger students) and then overnight camp in Van, TX for students going into first grade through ninth grade.
- Look for the Leadership Camps for the older high school students.
- Family Camps in both Ute Trail and HornCreek in Colorado.
- Sky Moms
- Parent-Child Weekends
- Family Camp Weekends
- College students can serve as camp counselors
Sky Ranch has a special place in the hearts of so many PCA families and has been an essential partner with PCA for so many years as we’ve taken students to Van, TX to kick off each year for our annual PCA Retreat. Huge shout out to Sky Ranch - make sure you consider Sky Ranch as you make plans for your family this summer and in the years to come.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dr. Jason Snyder and Tim Matthews
Join us for the incredible Jesus Revolution movie screening on Sunday, February 19th at Prestonwood Baptist Church, 6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75093. Food for purchase available at Main Street beginning at 4:30 pm, doors to the worship center open at 5:00 pm and the moving will begin promptly at 6:00 pm. Childcare is available up to Kindergarten age by reservation.
Friday morning men’s Bible study will feature Jim Sundberg, former all-star catcher for the Texas Rangers will be speaking on Friday, Feb. 17th and Friday, Feb. 24th beginning at 6:30 am in the Student Ministry Building. Jim will be sharing from his new book Equipped to Win!: Suiting Up in the Armor of God for Spiritual Maturity.
Dr. Jason Snyder is continuing his study of the Book of Genesis during MidWeek at Prestonwood - each Wednesday evening beginning at 6:30 pm in the Student Ministry Building. There are other incredible classes available during MidWeek for parents and students!
Prestonwood LifeGroup FINDER - how to find a LifeGroup that fits your stage of life.
Prestonwood PreTeen Weekend - “Co-Heirs”
February 25-26, Grades 4-6
Prestonwood Students - Beach Camp, June 11-16, 2023
Fort Walton Beach, FL
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Megan Rogers, Lauren Aulenbach, and Veronica Erickson
Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet
Sunday evening, April 2nd starting at 6:00 pm (doors open at 5:30 pm). Attire is WESTERN! The event is at The Star in Frisco. The recipient for the award is Michael W. Smith. This is a great event to invite a family that you want to introduce to PCA! Parents, we also need volunteers to help set up and tear down the event - check out the website for more information.
The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award was established in 2008 through the shared vision of Prestonwood Christian Academy and the Prestonwood Foundation, with the purpose of encapsulating the legacy of Zig Ziglar by annually naming a recipient who embodies the very essence of Christ-like servant leadership. We are proud to announce Michael W. Smith as the 2023 recipient! Learn more about Michael W. Smith here.
All proceeds from the Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet directly benefit Sponsor-A-Lion (SAL), Prestonwood Christian Academy's tuition assistance program. Each year, 500-600 PCA students receive need-based financial assistance through SAL.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Autumn Higashi
Autumn was our speaker for our Sanctity of Life emphasis in chapel. She is involved with an organization called Students for Life and you can listen to more of her sessions on their website or her YouTube channel called Unapologetic.
Autumn shared some powerful and plain truths about the development of human life - from conception to a full term baby inside the mother’s womb - and why it’s important to protect this developing life from those who would seek to destroy it through abortion. Autumn shared this message with PCA’s 7-12 grade students in two different chapels.
When Autumn shares with others about the challenges to a pro-life worldview, she answers many of their issues with this powerful statement: “No situation will be made better by the ending of an innocent human life.” Autumn also shares the important aspect that abortion isn’t the only option available to a woman, but we live in a culture that settles for limiting narrative. There are available solutions for a woman in a crisis pregnancy - financial resources, adoption, counseling and support are just some viable alternatives to the killing of a human life.
Autumn reminded our students that our faith tells us that all life is made in the image of God and is valuable and science tells us that life begins at conception - putting those powerful concepts together means that we, as Christians, should be fighting for protecting the life of the unborn and helping those individuals who are wrestling with these concepts in their own life.
To learn more about how the Dobbs decision changed the legal landscape of America, check out this article by John Stonestreet at The Colson Center.
Students for Life ACTION trains and mobilizes this generation of pro-life leaders to impact public policy and influence key elections in order to restrict and abolish abortion in America. The goal is to make abortion unthinkable one day!
Final word to parents - you need to be the one who is training your children about the issues of sex and abortion - Planned Parenthood is looking to introduce a counter narrative to our students, but we should be vigilant to make sure that our children know the truth about God’s design for human life.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Ricky Chelette
Ricky recently spoke to our parents at the Plano campus and will be giving that same presentation to our parents at the North Campus on Monday, January 30th at 6:45 pm in The Gathering. Invite your friends to join you to come out and hear him in person.
Living Hope Ministries
As Executive Director, Ricky’s vision, leadership, compassion and passion for truth has helped LHM grow and expand amidst a culture often antagonistic to its mission. Before joining Living Hope Ministries, Ricky served the Lord as a single adult/outreach pastor, youth pastor, and education minister. Ricky holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/ Pre-Law, A Master of Arts in Religious Education, is an ordained minister, and has taught at seminaries, colleges, and universities. While serving as executive director, Ricky concurrently serves on the pastoral staff at First Baptist Church, Arlington, TX as an ordained pastor.
Over his more than thirty years in ministry, Ricky has vast experience speaking to and journeying with thousands of men, women, and friends and family of those struggling with gender and identity confusion. Ricky enjoys traveling, cooking, painting, writing, reading, and seeing people’s lives transformed by Jesus. His real passions are teaching the word of God, serving the church and her people, and hosting folks at his house for his personally prepared gourmet meals. Ricky was joyously married for thirty years to the late Merlinda Allen Chelette, who went to be with the Lord in April 2019.
Parents of boys - what things do they need to know?
Ricky - we are having a big crisis of masculinity and the demonization of men - “toxic masculinity” - reality is that there are “toxic” men, but as Christians we need to raise our young boys into godly men - men who know how to work hard, treat others well, serve their community, and love their Lord.
Ricky - go back to the Word of God for instruction. Genesis begins with God giving men work to do and that’s an important place for men to begin - work gives men meaning and significance…and helps out the community at the same time! Men were also given the task to speak truth into chaos and give that chaos an identity and direction. So important for fathers to do this with their children - to speak truth into their life and give them identity and direction.
Ricky - every child needs the Attention, Affirmation, and Affection of their parents, especially their father.
Dads - find out how your children are created and what they are passionate about, and find ways to enter into their world to encourage them in their pursuits. If you don’t do this, your children may believe that they are not good enough for your love and attention.
Ricky - every dad ought to “date” their children - one-on-one time, finding out more about them…what’s your child’s favorite color, what is the name of their teacher, what book are they reading, are they allergic to anything…dads, you need to know these things!
Ricky - single parents, this is a difficult journey alone, but there are others out there who can help you - coaches, teachers, etc…but be careful and vigilant to vet those you allow into the life of your children.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Ricky Chelette
Ricky will be speaking at PCA for two PCA parent training sessions, first on Monday evening, January 23rd in the SLC on the Plano campus starting at 6:30 pm as well as the following Monday evening, January 30th in The Gathering at the North Campus beginning at 6:45 pm. Childcare is not available for these sessions.
Living Hope Ministries
As Executive Director, Ricky’s vision, leadership, compassion and passion for truth has helped LHM grow and expand amidst a culture often antagonistic to its mission. Before joining Living Hope Ministries, Ricky served the Lord as a single adult/outreach pastor, youth pastor, education minister, and even used his gifts of singing and teaching traveling the US performing gospel concerts. Ricky was one of the founders of LHM’s online support forums and was instrumental in establishing satellites of LHM in Denton and Houston. Ricky holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/ Pre-Law, A Master of Arts in Religious Education, is an ordained minister, and has taught at seminaries, colleges, and universities in addition to speaking throughout the US and abroad. While serving as executive director, Ricky concurrently serves on the pastoral staff at First Baptist Church, Arlington, TX as an ordained pastor.
Over his more than thirty years in ministry, Ricky has vast experience speaking to and journeying with thousands of men, women, and friends and family of those struggling with gender and identity confusion. Ricky enjoys traveling, cooking, painting, writing, reading, and seeing people’s lives transformed by Jesus. His real passions are teaching the word of God, serving the church and her people, and hosting folks at his house for his personally prepared gourmet meals. Ricky was joyously married for thirty years to the late Merlinda Allen Chelette, who went to be with the Lord in April 2019.
Starting the conversation with raising girls today (boys will be next week).
Ricky sees the gender “confusion” today as a “social contagion” - many young girls are following the lead of another or even someone famous
Where do we begin this conversation with our daughters?
- Talk with your daughters about why God created gender, especially the beauty of being created as a woman.
- Is there anything that a woman can’t do in today’s current culture?
- Are there things that specifically a woman can do that is special and unique?
If you just allow a person to progress normally through puberty, 75-85% of gender confusion will resolve for the sex to which they are born.
Parents - celebrate the way that your child was created by God - if they are a boy, celebrate that they are male - if they are a girl, celebrate that they are female. Remember that God doesn’t make mistakes - your children were created by God for a purpose, which includes their gender.
Parents - understand the influence that social media is having on the hearts and minds of your children!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Ricky Chelette
Ricky will be speaking at PCA for two PCA parent training sessions, first on Monday evening, January 23rd in the SLC on the Plano campus starting at 6:30 pm as well as the following Monday evening, January 30th in The Gathering at the North Campus beginning at 6:45 pm. Childcare is not available for these sessions.
Living Hope Ministries
As Executive Director, Ricky’s vision, leadership, compassion and passion for truth has helped LHM grow and expand amidst a culture often antagonistic to its mission. Before joining Living Hope Ministries, Ricky served the Lord as a single adult/outreach pastor, youth pastor, education minister, and even used his gifts of singing and teaching traveling the US performing gospel concerts. Ricky was one of the founders of LHM’s online support forums and was instrumental in establishing satellites of LHM in Denton and Houston. Ricky holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science/ Pre-Law, A Master of Arts in Religious Education, is an ordained minister, and has taught at seminaries, colleges, and universities in addition to speaking throughout the US and abroad. While serving as executive director, Ricky concurrently serves on the pastoral staff at First Baptist Church, Arlington, TX as an ordained pastor.
Over his more than thirty years in ministry, Ricky has vast experience speaking to and journeying with thousands of men, women, and friends and family of those struggling with gender and identity confusion. Ricky enjoys traveling, cooking, painting, writing, reading, and seeing people’s lives transformed by Jesus. His real passions are teaching the word of God, serving the church and her people, and hosting folks at his house for his personally prepared gourmet meals. Ricky was joyously married for thirty years to the late Merlinda Allen Chelette, who went to be with the Lord in April 2019.
Starting the conversation with raising girls today (boys will be next week).
Ricky sees the gender “confusion” today as a “social contagion” - many young girls are following the lead of another or even someone famous
Where do we begin this conversation with our daughters?
- Talk with your daughters about why God created gender, especially the beauty of being created as a woman.
- Is there anything that a woman can’t do in today’s current culture?
- Are there things that specifically a woman can do that is special and unique?
If you just allow a person to progress normally through puberty, 75-85% of gender confusion will resolve for the sex to which they are born.
Parents - celebrate the way that your child was created by God - if they are a boy, celebrate that they are male - if they are a girl, celebrate that they are female. Remember that God doesn’t make mistakes - your children were created by God for a purpose, which includes their gender.
Parents - understand the influence that social media is having on the hearts and minds of your children!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Parents, join me as we welcome Maria Bower to PCA where she will serve as our Director of Spiritual Development!
About Maria (from her website): Maria serves as the Director of Spiritual Development, Wellness Coordinator, and as a Biblical Counselor for the Prestonwood Christian Academy School System. She is also the founder, teacher, and podcaster of Faith Vs. Weight: Slaying the Sugar Dragon based on the Faith Vs. Weight Series, and her two books, Faith Vs. Weight: Magnifying the Glory of God by Reclaiming Your Energy to Serve the Kingdom and Faith Vs. Weight: Daily Strength to Shine Action Guide.
Through her Faith Vs. Weight podcast, classes, and books she empowers clients to identify strongholds and experience life-changing breakthroughs with regard to their spiritual, emotional, and physical health. Biblical inspiration is introduced with practical and proven behavior, nutrition, and fitness strategies that have helped hundreds of clients lose weight and regain their energy to serve the kingdom.
Growing up in an abusive home, Maria has personally dealt with emotional eating, depression, drug abuse, and other unhealthy behaviors. She understands the very real spiritual warfare involved in these struggles. She also knows what it is like to live in VICTORY and loves leading others to that same freedom in the LORD, JESUS CHRIST!!
Maria is a former U.S. Navy Health Information Systems Officer (ACHE) and White House Military Social Aide. She graduated from The George Washington University with an MBA and has completed certifications from the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) as a Certified Nutrition Coach and Personal Trainer specializing in Metabolic Health, Behavioral Change, Fitness Nutrition, Weight Loss, Pilates, and Women’s Fitness. She has also served as a YMCA LIVESTRONG cancer survivor trainer.
She currently teaches Faith Vs. Weight at Prestonwood Baptist Church, Plano Texas.
Maria has also completed certificates in Biblical Counselor through Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary (MABTS) as well as Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary (SWBTS).
As a fifty-six year old wife of fellow Navy Veteran, Mark Bower, and the mother of two sons; Benjamin, a High School Junior and Matthew, a Freshman at Texas A&M studying Engineering, the joy of the LORD is her strength! Nehemiah 8:10
Maria was brought up in the Catholic faith - she talks about how spending time in the Word of God completely transformed her understanding of God’s grace and mercy in her life.
Maria found that listening to the Bible was helpful - a way to spend time in God’s Word without adding one more thing to her plate - and found playing worship music was a powerful addition as well. Maria also suggests putting Christian Bible books in your car so that our kids have access to some good reading material instead of them wasting time on technology!
Check this out to find out more about Faith vs. Weight
GIGO - Garbage In, Garbage Out - you will reap what you sow - what you fill your time and mind with will influence your thought process and develop your worldview.
Don’t worry - God’s plans for your children will not be thwarted!
Model your spiritual journey for your children - let them see you read God’s Word and get involved in church! Most efficient use of your day - start it in the Word of God!
Join me in praying for Maria as she begins to serve the PCA community in this role as our Director of Spiritual Development!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Tami Peterson, Founder and CEO of Life Architects
Life Architects: Designing Solutions for Life and Leadership
Tami is a designer by vocation and has been creating lesson plans, curricula, and experiences her whole life. She holds an undergraduate degree in Christian Education from Ozark Christian College in Joplin, MO, and an MA in Leadership, Theology, and Society from Regent College in Vancouver, BC, Canada. Her occupational titles have included elementary, middle, and high school teacher, librarian, admissions director, career coach, and director of college advising. Her title at Life Architects is Founder and Creative Engagement Officer where she designs and directs the projects we work on and helps everyone flourish by connecting with individuals, families, and institutions. Tami is married and has two adult children.
One of the amazing and important resources of a private Christian school is that it can be a safe place to ask questions, to wrestle with important life issues - your family should also be a place where children are asking questions - and that you, as their parents, are seeking to listen and learn from them and with them!
How do we start to train our children in “the way they should go”?
- Start by just paying attention
- “See and Say” - when you see something in your children, communicate that to them - encourage them by telling them the things that you see that God has created in our children
Some things that you can identify in your children that reflect the nature of God:
- God’s order and design - do your children love to bring order out of chaos?
- God’s desire to seek and save the lost - do your children love to save lost puppies?
- God’s creativity - do your children love to create new things and beauty?
- God’s healing and restoring - do your children enjoy helping others?
How do we equip our children to learn from the pains and sorrows of life instead of looking to help them avoid all pain and only seek pleasure? It’s difficult to allow our children to struggle, especially in a world that pushes everyone to be “elite.”
How do we develop a “learner mentality” - which means that we allow them to fail, so that they can learn from that failure - and that they can learn there are things they are not good at?!
Remember that all children are “wired” differently - and just because our current culture advances one particular area doesn’t mean that our children are wired to be successful in that area. If we allow our culture to define what is valuable, then our children will be defined by our culture. We should define our children by God’s design for them - and equip them to be all that God has designed for them to be - even if that means that their vocation does not command a great deal of money! Do we want our children to define their success and happiness by God’s design for their lives or by what the world says is important?
Scripture gives several warnings against the “love” of money, the pursuit of money - God’s Word frames us as “stewards” of resources - time, talents, and treasure - that ALL belongs to God, and we are to use what He’s given us for His greater glory!
Research about what keeps people “in the faith”
- Worldview that has the answers to the questions of life
- Mentor who walks with you on your journey
- Community of people who speak the truth in love
Parents, if you’d like to reach out to Tami for additional attention, check out their website and services.
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Parents, at least once a year, I want to share with our parents an episode from our alumni podcast called LifeTalk for a couple of reasons: first, to let you hear how valuable PCA is to our students especially after they leave our halls and enter the “real world,” but also to remind you that our “journey” with our PCA students and families continues even after a student graduates!
This episode is a conversation with our PCA Alumni Director Veronica Erickson, PCA alumna Cesia Rodriguez (class of 2015) and myself. I found the story fascinating because of how PCA was introduced to Cesia and her family - through our PCA minimester program! Cesia was born and raised in Cuba - her father was a pastor and got connected with Dr. Larry and Delinda Taylor on a minimester trip - which resulted in Cesia’s entire family moving to Dallas and her attending PCA!
Listen to Cesia tell about the vast differences between her memories of Cuba and their lack of religious freedom to the experiences she had here in America and at PCA.
Cesia continues to share her love for the Lord and her passion to help people by doing missions and connecting her degree in nursing with those trips. She attended John Brown University (JBU) and did some medical missions through the college as well! Wouldn’t it be awesome to have a PCA alumni minimester trip - someone needs to work on that!
Cesia went on some medical mission trips with a group called Dustin’s Dream - check out their website to learn more about this incredible medical missions group.
Let’s all be praying for Cesia as she continues to share the Gospel through medical missions - and be praying about how God could use YOU to advance the Kingdom as well! PCA loves our alumni and we love having them back on campus sharing the stories of what God is doing in and through their lives. Thanks for taking the time to listen to Cesia’s testimony!
Special shout out to Jared Wood for allowing us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
FREEDOM Week is February 1, 3-5, 8
Jason Mick (JMick) and Anthony Vargas (AV) will walk us through everything we need to know to get our students registered and ready for Freedom 2023!
Prestonwood Students exists to REACH our community, the nation, the world, and every generation with the Gospel; to LEARN to grow in an authentic and visible faith; to LOVE those around us with a biblically based devotion to Jesus; and to MULTIPLY what God has done in our lives into the lives of others.
Freedom begins with a Wednesday night kick-off on each campus followed by the Friday-Sunday activities and then another Wednesday evening celebration session.
Check out all the information about Freedom at Prestonwood Students.
Freedom 2023 will feature breakout sessions addressing a variety of topics and the main speakers include Clayton King, Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, Marquise Cox, Rob Wilton, Tasha Calvert, and Mike Taylor.
Parents, get connected with the Parent Resources available on the Prestonwood Students website - also reach out to Johnny Farr at the Plano campus or James McKinney at the North campus. Also, in preparation for Freedom, model for your students what the authentic Christian walk looks like - be in the Word building your personal faith, in church growing and developing your community, and sharing your faith with others.
Parents, there is also a parent training session on Saturday, February 4th at 1 pm in the SMB.
Parents, you can get involved and help out with so many different opportunities at Freedom and beyond! There is also an opportunity to give financially to help students who can’t afford to attend.
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
November is National Adoption Month - Bryant and Kyndall Forshee were so gracious to let us join them in their journey of adoption so that we can listen and learn...as well as encourage and support them and others on their adoption journey. This is a great episode to listen to over Thanksgiving - hope you are encouraged and inspired by Bryant and Kyndall's faith journey in the adoption process.
Bryant is the PBC Junior High Pastor, Plano campus
Kyndall teaches 4th grade at a local elementary school
Prestonwood has a ministry that highlights and encourages foster care and adoption called CHOSEN - which stands for Christ’s Hope for Orphans: Supporting, Embracing, and Nurturing
“Closed” vs. “Open” Adoptions
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A closed adoption is when the adoptive papers are sealed and children are not told who their biological parents are - adoptive parents have a choice if and when they tell their child that they are adopted
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An open adoption is when the adoptive parents maintain an open relationship with the biological parents, adoptive parents maintain legal custody of their children, but visitations with biological parents are encouraged and can be mandated by the courts
Forshees went through a typical adoption process, which includes a “home study” - a very in depth evaluation of the “quality” of your marriage and home life!
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Big questions that needed to be addressed is about the community that the Forshees have around them to be supportive during difficult times
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Open adoptions can require the adoptive parents to make annual visits to the biological parents - something that the Forshees have to consider in this selection process
How can you support the Forshees or another family looking to adopt?
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Financial support
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The Forshees actually did set up a Venmo account where people can give to help them financially, check it out @forsheefor3
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Prayer - don’t just say it, do it!
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Look for other opportunities to encourage adoption and walk alongside those who are interested
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Learn more about adoption - check out the adoption agency that the Forshees used called LifeLine Children’s Services
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Parents, we hope that you listen and learn about the incredible group of PCA counselors that we have on staff at both the Plano and North campus locations. If you only want to listen to the information that relates to the campus where your students are, please see the times listed below and you can simply listen to the time slot for your preferred campus:
PCA Plano campus (podcast from :00 - 18:07)
LS - Dr. Clayr Schreiner - cshreiner@prestonwoodchristian.org
MS - Denise Thornton - dthornton@prestonwoodchristian.org
US - Tamara Addis - taddis@prestonwoodchristia.org
PCA North campus (podcast from 18:08 - 26:48)
Kristin Dysart - kdysart@prestonwoodchristian.org
PCA counselors provide counseling for students, parents, and faculty dealing with a variety of issues that stem from both academic issues or general life issues such as anxiety and depression, peer pressure, divorce care, etc.
Counselors in LS, MS, and US see many of the same issues, but as students get older there are “age-specific” issues that students face - puberty and body development issues are most common for middle school students.
PCA Plano started a program called Link Crew to help new students get connected and adjust to the new environment.
Remember that communications and conversations with PCA are kept confidential, as per legal guidelines.
There is constant training dealing with mental health issues happening at PCA for students, parents, and faculty.
PCA North campus offers the opportunity to connect with a program called Cookies with the Counselor - so be on the lookout for that!
Please keep our PCA counselors in prayer and send them a note of encouragement and thanks for the wonderful job they are doing!
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Allen Parr
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute (BWi) theme this year was Anchored in the Faith and was a response to the primary reasons that people give for “deconstructing” (walking away from) their faith. The conference was held on Nov. 1-2 and featured plenary sessions from the following speakers: Dr. Sean McDowell, Alisa Childers, Dr. Scott Stripling, Dr. Craig Evans, Dr. Randy Guliuzza (with ICR), and Allen Parr. Over 3000 individuals attended the conference including students from 25 different schools across 9 different states - and the conference was available to be viewed on a live stream as well.
The BWi conference was sponsored by several different organizations including our new Title Sponsor for this year’s conference which was Logos Bible Software. Platinum sponsors for the conference included Boyce College, Charleston Southern University, Criswell College, Ouachita Baptist University, John Brown University, and Lee Strobel Ministries.
Allen Parr is a Bible teacher and national speaker whose passion lies in helping people grow spiritually through providing clear and relevant teaching of God’s word. His purpose is to equip believers with the tools, training and teaching they need to live a victorious life and fulfill their God-given purpose. His weekly YouTube channel, The BEAT, reaches hundreds of thousands of viewers worldwide each week. He is also a proud graduate of Dallas Theological Seminary where he earned his Master of Theology degree. Most of all, he loves Jesus Christ and is happily married to his beautiful wife Jennifer and is the proud father to his daughter Anaiah and his son Micah. Find out more about Allen at his website allenparr.com
Guest: Scott Turner, Associate Pastor, Prestonwood Baptist Church
Scott - voting is paramount and has to be a priority! Get EDUCATED on those who are running for office - and vote to advance your worldview!
Who represents me - check out this website, put in your address, find out who your current representatives are.
Mid-term General Election Dates
- Early voting - Monday, October 24 - Friday, November 4
- Election date - Tuesday, November 8, 2022
Politics is about policies, which are about principles, which affect people.
Primary Election - multiple people running to be the one candidate from each political party (usually held in March of each election cycle)
General Election - one person from each party running to serve as the representative for that political office (usually held in November of each election cycle)
Also remember that there are election cycles for federal, state, county, and local governmental positions. Election cycles may differ, especially for “municipal” or city elections.
As Christians, we also have the responsibility and opportunity to PRAY for our leaders - 1 Timothy 2:1-2 says, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”
When the righteous rule, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan. Proverbs 29:2
To find out where candidates stand on the issues, check out iVoterGuide.com
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Sean McDowell
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute theme this year is Anchored in the Faith and is a response to the primary reasons that people give for “deconstructing” (walking away from) their faith. This incredible conference will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1st and Wednesday, Nov. 2nd. Doors open at 8 am and the main sessions are held in the worship center at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, TX. Sean McDowell will be speaking on Tuesday morning for his plenary session and Tuesday afternoon for the breakout sessions. For more information or to register, visit the PCA website.
Sean has a new book out that you’ll also want to get - A Rebel’s Manifesto: Choosing Truth, Real Justice, and Love amid the Noise of Today’s World
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Institute for Creation Research (ICR)
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute theme this year is Anchored in the Faith and is a response to the primary reasons that people give for “deconstructing” (walking away from) their faith. This incredible conference will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1st and Wednesday, Nov. 2nd. Dr. Randy Guliuzza will be speaking on Wednesday morning for his plenary session and Tuesday afternoon for the breakout sessions. For more information or to register, visit the PCA website.
Who is ICR?
At the Institute for Creation Research, we want you to know God’s Word can be trusted with everything it speaks about—from how and why we were made, to how the universe was formed, to how we can know God and receive all He has planned for us.
That’s why ICR scientists have spent more than 50 years researching scientific evidence that refutes evolutionary philosophy and confirms the Bible’s account of a recent and special creation. We regularly receive testimonies from around the world about how ICR’s cutting-edge work has impacted thousands of people with God’s creation truth.You’ll find faith-building science articles in Acts & Facts, our bimonthly science news magazine, and spiritual insight and encouragement from Days of Praise, our quarterly devotional booklet. Sign up for FREE at ICR.org/subscriptions.
Our radio programs, podcasts, online videos, and wide range of social media offerings will keep you up to date on the latest creation news and announcements. Get connected at ICR.org.
We offer creation science books, DVDs, and other resources for every age and stage at ICR.org/store.
Learn how you can attend or host a biblical creation event at ICR.org/events.
Discover how science confirms the Bible at our Dallas museum, the ICR Discovery Center for Science & Earth History. Plan your visit at ICRdiscoverycenter.org.
Dr. Brian Thomas, Research Scientist at ICR, specializing in Dinosaurs (specifically dinosaur proteins, soft tissue), Problems with Evolution, Human Origins
- Where is the “defensible science” that explains macro evolution - the apparent changes from one species to another, from ape to man, etc…?
- ICR has scientists from a wide variety of scientific disciplines - Dr. Jeff Tomkins (Genetics), Dr. Tim Clarey (Geologist), Dr. Jake Hebert (Physics), Dr. James Johnson (Forensic Science), Frank Sherwin (Zoology), and Dr. Randy Guliuzza (Engineering Science).
ICR Discovery Center
- Located at 1830 Royal Lane, Dallas, TX 75229 (Royal and Luna), open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am-5pm.
- Exhibit Hall and Planetarium (Deep Space and the Solar System and the Ocean)
- Give yourself a couple hours to walk through the Exhibit Hall - you can go through a little faster with younger children, but with older children you’ll want to stop, read, digest, and converse about all the different displays
- Discovery Center mini-tour on YouTube
ICR YouTube/Podcast
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Alisa Childers
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute theme this year is Anchored in the Faith and is a response to the primary reasons that people give for “deconstructing” (walking away from) their faith. This incredible conference will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1st and Wednesday, Nov. 2nd. Alisa Childers will be speaking on Tuesday morning for her plenary session and Tuesday afternoon for the breakout sessions. For more information or to register, visit the PCA website.
Alisa Childers is a wife, a mom, an author, a blogger, a speaker, and a worship leader. She was a member of the award-winning CCM recording group ZOEgirl. She is a popular speaker at apologetics and Christian worldview conferences, including reThink. She has been published at The Gospel Coalition, Crosswalk, the Stream, For Every Mom, Decision magazine, and The Christian Post. Her blog post “Girl, Wash Your Face? What Rachel Hollis Gets Right . . . and Wrong” received more than one million views. You can connect with Alisa online at alisachilders.com.
Alisa Childers’ Books:
Another Gospel: A Lifelong Christian Seeks Truth in Response to Progressive Christianity
Live Your Truth (and Other Lies): Exposing Popular Deceptions That Make Us Anxious, Exhausted, and Self-Obsessed
Alisa - Christianity is very “counter-cultural” - the dominant worldview of the culture is not based on the Bible!
Alisa - Truth is true regardless of how many people follow or believe it!
Alisa - the battle over truth is the greatest battle our kids are facing today.
Alisa - what approach will you take as a parent…Alisa encourages you as a parent to expose your child to “bad” or “false” ideas - research shows that the FIRST person to introduce an idea to a person becomes the “expert” on that issue - so we want, as parents, to introduce ideas to our children before the world does - within reasonable and age appropriate limits. But the idea that we can “shelter” our children from the false ideas of the world can be dangerous - especially when your children first hear of things when they are outside of your home and don’t have the foundation and support structure of a good family and biblically-solid Christian community around them.
Alisa - consistency and discipleship are essential to the spiritual health and growth of your children.
Alisa - it’s NOT too late to do a “reset” with your kids - tell them what mistakes you’ve made, let them see godly repentance - and then put the spiritual health of your family as your top priority.
Alisa - we’re on a spiritual journey together - be open to questions that your children are wrestling with and go on the journey of exploration together to find the truth!
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Alycia Wood
Alycia Wood spoke to our students during the 2017 Biblical Worldview Institute - check out her presentation titled Engaging Your Mind.
PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute (BWi) theme this year is "Anchored in the Faith" and is a response to the primary reasons that people give for “deconstructing” (walking away from) their faith. This incredible conference will be held Tuesday, Nov. 1st and Wednesday, Nov. 2nd. For more information or to register, visit the PCA website.
Reasons why people are giving for walking away from their faith:
- Not enough evidence for the Bible, resurrection, etc.
- Personal morality conflict with Biblical morality - sexual orientation, gender identity, etc.
- The Christians I know are hypocrites so their God must be fake, too.
- Christianity and science are at odds with each other.
There are two parts of deconstructionism - one negative, one positive. If a person throws off ideas just because others believe it, that can be a positive element of a person making their own personal faith. Reconstruction is as important as the deconstruction concept.
God isn’t afraid of your questions. The problem comes when a person can’t make some “puzzle pieces” of life fit, so they leave it unfinished and walk away from the table.
Excellent resources to consider:
The Revenge of Conscience: Politics and the Fall of Man by J. Budziszewski
The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self by Dr. Carl Trueman
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: The Honorable Matt Shaheen, Texas State Representative, District 66
Student Leadership Institute (SLi) is a leadership training program for Upper School students to train our students how to think critically, engage and debate ideas, and present their solutions to an audience. Each year we select a current cultural issue and this year our PCA students are wrestling with SOGI (Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity) issues.
We selected this topic because of the prevelence of this issue in our culture, and one example is the narrative of the parental rights law passed in Florida that the media dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Here is an article from the Washington Post on this legislative initiative - notice how a bill meant to protect children from LGBTQ indoctrination has a headline that is more worried about how this bill might “limit discussion” on these issues.
The Texas Legislative Session will begin in January 2023 and run through May. The Texas Constitution limits the legislative session to 140 days every two years, although the Governor may call as many Special Sessions and reconvene the legislators as needed to complete the work of the state.
If you want to find out who represents you in the Texas Legislature, visit Who Represents Me? Site, put in your address, and they will tell you who your elected representatives are for your location.
For the actual story on the young woman influenced by her school to transition genders, check out the BreakPoint article by John Stonestreet.
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Mike Beeson, Minister of Missions, Prestonwood Baptist Church
Minimester registration will be available as follows:
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Seniors - Sunday, September 25, 9:00 p.m. to Monday, September 26, 9:00 a.m.
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Juniors - Tuesday, September 27, 9:00p.m. to Wednesday, September 28, 9:00 a.m.
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Sophomore & Freshman - Thursday, September 29, 9:00 p.m. to Friday September 30, 9:00 a.m.
A trip deposit of $300 for domestic and international trips or $75 for local/Texas trips is due at the time of registration.
If you have not already, we encourage you to watch the Minimester video to learn more about the heart of Minimester.
As a reminder, Seniors and Juniors will have the option of selecting either an international or domestic trip. Sophomores will have the option of traveling domestically. Freshmen will serve the local community through various ministry options. These offerings will be comprised of 15 local ministries directly connected to Prestonwood Baptist Church and vetted by PBC Missions. The students will be partnered in groups and will travel to serve at a different ministry opportunity each day.
We are committed to the spiritual development of our students and intentionally train students to serve in the local mission field before sending them to serve abroad. Students are taught how to be a witness as commanded in Acts 1:8 in Jerusalem, then Judea and Samaria, and then to the ends of the earth. Serving provides students with an opportunity to put into practice what they have learned in alignment with the biblical concept of sharing the gospel and making disciples. Local missions also have the added benefit of making Minimester affordable for PCA families.
Questions? If you have questions please reference the FAQ on the Minimester tile on MyPCA. If your question is not answered there, please email minimester@prestonwoodchristian.org. We have created this centralized communication method so that our staff can work together as a team to provide you with timely responses.
Thank you to Jared Wood for allowing The Journey to use his incredible musical gifts and talents as our intro and outro for this podcast. Check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Dr. Katie Chretien, PCA Plano Lower School Principal
PCA has undergone an intensive examination of the books and resources that our students have access to especially in the Lower School library. Resources must be age appropriate in their language, imagery, and ideas communicated to our students. Dr. Chretien shares about the work being done at the Lower School library at the Plano campus, but this audit is ongoing at the Middle School, Upper School, and North Campus libraries as well.
PCA Lower School has moved from Scholastic Books to I:55 Book Fairs, Where Faith Matters. From I:55’s website: Our vision at I55 Book Fairs is to partner with Christian schools, churches, and organizations in proclaiming the name of Jesus Christ. We are passionate about raising up a generation of inspired readers. Our name comes from Isaiah 55. This chapter encompasses all we strive to do, knowing that nothing is impossible with God.
The audit of the books and resources that students have access to in the library should also encourage you as a parent to do a similar audit of what information has access to your children at home through TV, movies, and social media.
Parents, help us continue to be vigilant - if you run across something in a book that you think we need to be aware of, please contact either Dr. Chretien at kchretien@prestonwoodchristian.org or Dan Panetti at dpanetti@prestonwoodchristian.org
Thanks to Marcus Schreiner (PCA’s Director of Development) , Megan Rogers (PCA North’s Director of Development Relations), and Lauren Aulenbach (PCA’s Director of Annual Funds) for talking about the opportunities to support PCA, PCA North, St. Timothy Christian Academy and The King’s Academy through North Texas Giving Day (NTGD) - open now until September 22, 2022.
To give, check out the NTGD website:
Prestonwood Christian Academy - you can designate what grade level and campus (North or Plano) you are giving to during the giving process.
St. Timothy Christian Academy
The King’s Academy
Guest: Andy Pearson, Director of NextGen Choirs and Creative Arts, Prestonwood Baptist Church
A product of Prestonwood, Andy cut his proverbial acting and dancing teeth in Branson, MO doing shows and then beginning to produce shows while in high school! He’s literally been working with Prestonwood for over 20 years…and he’s only 40 years old now!
Andy and his wife Lauren are proud PCA parents of their little lion Beckett. Andy is slated to lead a PCA Minimester trip to Athens, Greece this spring.
To learn more about the Prestonwood Student Choir, visit their website at Prestonwood Student Worship or check out their Instagram page @student_worship. Here is some information about important dates from their website:
CHOIR KICKOFF 2022 Date: Aug 28, Sunday, 1-2 pm Location: North Campus – NC SMB / Plano Campus – Choir Rehearsal Hall Register now to avoid long lines at the check-in Door opens at 12:30 pm Free Lunch and T-shirt Fall Follies and The Gift of Christmas Dance Audition immediately after the Kickoff Fall Vocal Audition: Prepare a 30-45 second A Capella audition video (one song per student, please) and e-mail it to studentworship@prestonwood.org by Sunday, Aug 28th, 11pm.
STUDENT WORSHIP MINISTRY UPDATES UPCOMING DATES Aug 28: Fall Kickoff and Fall Dance Audition Sept 4: No Choir Rehearsal. HAPPY LABOR DAY WEEKEND! Sept 11: Regular Choir Rehearsal. Follies Rehearsal Kickoff Sept 18: No Choir Rehearsal. Have fun at the Student Ministry Block Party! Sept 25: Regular Choir Rehearsal
REGISTRATION FOR 2022-2023 IS NOW OPEN! Register now and start receiving all the news and updates! If you have any questions, e-mail studentworship@prestonwood.org.
Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, retreat speaker
Parents, we had an incredible time at our PCA Upper School retreat at Sky Ranch last week. The atmosphere was electric and the teaching and training time with our students was epic! This episode will hopefully give you a little taste of what our US students experienced at retreat - lots of activities, grade level meetings, incredible worship and solid Biblical teaching. After some highlights from retreat, I sat down with Dr. Jeremiah Johnston and took a moment to reflect on what he shared with our students and his perspective as a first time dad and faculty member at PCA.
A special shout out to Jared Wood who not only was our worship leader once again at retreat, but he also allows us to use his incredible talents and music for our intro and outro for The Journey - check out his music at JaredWoodMusic.
Guest: Dr. Joe McIlhaney [Mature Theme]
Joe McIlhaney, MD is the Founder and Chairman of The Medical Institute for Sexual Health. He founded this organization in 1992, and left his medical practice of twenty-four years to become President of the organization in 1995. He is from Lubbock, TX and graduated from Texas Technological College (now Texas Tech University) in 1957. He graduated from Baylor University School of Medicine with an MD degree in 1991. Following an internship at Jefferson Davis Hospital in Houston he entered the USAF as a general medical officer, serving for two years. He returned to Baylor to do nine months of residency in Pediatrics and then to complete a three year residency in Ob-Gyn. He and his wife and three daughters then moved to Austin, TX where he practiced Obstetrics and Gynecology with an emphasis on care of infertile couples. During that time he was an innovator, bringing gynecologic laparoscopy, gynecologic microsurgery, gynecologic laser and, with three other doctors, IVF to the Central Texas area.
Hooked: New Science on How Casual Sex is Affecting Our Children by Dr. Joe McIlhaney and Freda McKissic Bush
Hooked: The Consequences of Casual Sex - Part 1 with Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, 2019 (VIDEO)
If girls understand that they are “worthy” then they are more likely to act in a way that demonstrates their worth and expect others to treat them with respect.
If a girl is touched in an intimate way for twenty seconds or more, her body releases a chemical called oxytocin, which helps to bond her to that other person and builds a level of trust between them.
God has designed us for intimate relationships - and the chemicals that God has designed to help build those important relationships! That’s why God designed marriage as the proper place for sexual activity - within the bounds and covenant of a life-long relationship between one man and one woman. God’s guidelines are to “limit” us, but to empower us to have meaningful and lasting relationships!
The Power of the Success Sequence
By W. Bradford Wilcox and Wendy Wang
American Enterprise Institute
May 26, 2022
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the US. Learn more about it and how it is transferred.
Understanding the effects of pornography - it doesn’t appear to “cost” much at the time, but the long-term effects are far more significant than most people can imagine - sin takes you farther than you wanted to go, keeps you longer than you wanted to stay, and costs you more than you wanted to pay!
Parents, start talking to your children when they’re young about God’s design for relationships and sexuality at an age-appropriate level. Talk to your children about the incredible things that God has planned for them - if they are aiming for a goal, it’s easier to say no to small distractions that would keep us from our ultimate goal!
“We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.” C.S. Lewis
A Life Well Spent: The Eternal Rewards of Investing Yourself and Your Money in Your Family by Russ Crosson
Parents, we are modeling how to do life as we live and make decisions in front of our children!
The Road Less Traveled, Timeless Edition: A New Psychology of Love, Traditional Values and Spiritual Growth by M. Scott Peck
Shout out to Jared Wood who allows us to use his music - check him out at JaredWoodMusic!
Guest: Dan Panetti, PCA Worldview Director
New Staff Presentation 2022
First, we need to address what the goal of education really is:
A liberal-arts education is supposed to provide you with a value system, a standard, a set of ideas, not a job. Caroline Bird
The great end of education is to discipline rather than to furnish the mind; to train it to the use of its own powers, rather than fill it with the accumulation of others. Tyron Edwards
Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel. Socrates
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Charles Dickens, A Tale of Two Cities
''Call me Ishmael,'' Herman Melville, Moby-Dick
“The wounds received in battle bestow honor, they do not take it away.” Miguel de Cervantes, Don Quixote
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. The Gospel of John, Chapter 1:1-5
Therefore, the Christian student has the ability to ask and answer important questions of life…
If you see a problem, what can I do to make it better?
If you see a void, what can I do to fill it?
If you see beauty, how can I best appreciate it?
If you see wonder, how can I best understand it?
MOVIE - Top Gun Maverick
Enemy-occupied territory – that is what this world is. Christianity is the story of how the rightful king has landed. You might say landed in disguise, and is calling us all to take part in a great campaign of sabotage. When you go to church you are really listening in to the secret wireless from our friends: that is why the enemy is so anxious to prevent us from going. C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity
Thanks to Jared Wood for the use of his music.
Guest: Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent, Prestonwood Christian Academy School System
“ALL IN” School-wide Theme for 2022-23
Jesus answered, “The most important is, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” Mark 12:29-30
Dr. Goddard decided to look at his life and every aspect of what he’s putting into his mind and body - and he’s down 35 pounds in weight! The goal for our Christian teachers and leaders is to MODEL the way for our students!
Objective for every classroom - love Jesus and love others enough to share Him!
When we feed the flesh, the flesh grows. When we feed the spirit, the spirit grows. What are you feeding in your life? Choose what is right, good, and true and feed those thoughts and ideas.
PCA adding about 500 students across the PCA System - incredible opportunities for those students and families for a Biblically-solid Christian education to train them to make a difference in the world for Christ!
A “strand of three cords” - the church, school, and home - together we are stronger as we train our students to be strong lights in a dark world!
Levi’s Locker
Special thanks to Toby Graham and Kelly Walsh - our directors for Levi’s Locker, the PCA Spirit Store! And a huge shout out to Katie McDonald PCA’s Director of Communications and Web - who is the biggest fan of all the incredible work that Toby and Kelly are doing!
To learn more about Levi’s Locker and check out all the incredible things they offer, visit their website and social media offerings:
Levi’s Locker online: https://the-hub-prestonwood-christian-academy.square.site/
To volunteer and find out the hours of operation: prestonwoodchristian.org/spiritstore
Facebook: @LevisLockerPCA
Instagram: @LevisLockerPCA
Twitter: @LevisLockerPCA
Levi’s Locker will be announcing their MOBILE opportunities soon - to “take spirit to the people.” So be on the lookout for Levi’s Locker coming to a variety of PCA events near you! There is an online store where you can order your materials and get them even before the long lines form at Back to School Day!
Levi’s Locker equips us to present to the watching world a message of love and truth by presenting the hope that is in us as children of the light. Just as the word should be written on our hearts so that we might not sin against God, we can also write His word on our lives so that the world can see the difference that Christ has made in our lives - when we promote PCA, we promote Christ who is at the center of all that PCA is and does.
Guest: Dr. Karla Hale Gerdes
www.drhalegerdes.com
972-248-4673
Office location: 5168 Village Creek Dr., Suite 200, Plano, TX 75093
Karla Hale Gerdes, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist, specializing in psychotherapy for individuals and couples. She is dual licensed as a marriage/family therapist and has been in private practice for almost 30 years, with extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Dr. Gerdes is qualified to deal with a wide range of psychological, behavioral, relational, and spiritual issues with warmth, wisdom, competency, and compassion.
Dr. Gerdes’ specialty interests include marriage and family relationships, depression and anxiety, women's issues, life transitions, grief and loss, divorce recovery, blended families, and faith/spirituality issues.
Education:
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Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Texas Tech University; emphasis in marriage/family therapy
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Internship in Clinical Psychology, UT Health Sciences Center, Houston
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Harding University, summa cum laude
Dr. Gerdes is trained in a variety of evidence-based approaches to therapy, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Family Systems and Family of Origin
- Imago and Gottman Marital Therapies
- Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Solution-Focused, short-term therapy
- Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Mindfulness techniques
Guest: Dr. Karla Hale Gerdes
www.drhalegerdes.com
972-248-4673
Office location: 5168 Village Creek Dr., Suite 200, Plano, TX 75093
Karla Hale Gerdes, Ph.D. is a licensed psychologist, specializing in psychotherapy for individuals and couples. She is dual licensed as a marriage/family therapist and has been in private practice for almost 30 years, with extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Dr. Gerdes is qualified to deal with a wide range of psychological, behavioral, relational, and spiritual issues with warmth, wisdom, competency, and compassion.
Dr. Gerdes’ specialty interests include marriage and family relationships, depression and anxiety, women's issues, life transitions, grief and loss, divorce recovery, blended families, and faith/spirituality issues.
Education:
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Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Texas Tech University; emphasis in marriage/family therapy
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Internship in Clinical Psychology, UT Health Sciences Center, Houston
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Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Harding University, summa cum laude
Dr. Gerdes is trained in a variety of evidence-based approaches to therapy, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Family Systems and Family of Origin
- Imago and Gottman Marital Therapies
- Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT)
- Solution-Focused, short-term therapy
- Acceptance-Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Mindfulness techniques
Guest: Ryan Bangert, Alliance Defending Freedom
Hope y’all have a wonderful 4th of July! On July 4th, Americans celebrate the passage of the Declaration of Independence, which reads in part:
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.
Recently, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) handed down a monumental decision in the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (Dobbs) case that effectively overturned the infamous 1973 Roe v. Wade decision where the Court had found a woman’s right to an abortion was a Constitutionally protected right. Overturning Roe means that the “right to an abortion” is now no longer secured by the federal courts and is subject to the determination of the governed - just as the Framers had intended our governmental process to work. So whether you’re “pro-abortion” or “pro-life,” Dobbs returns the power to influence the legislative process back to the citizens of each state to decide through their elected representatives, a right which the Court had usurped from citizens in the Roe decision.
As Christians, what does the Dobbs decision mean?
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A large percentage of women seeking abortions are single women who already have other children, but because of financial or other considerations, feel that they are unable to support another child. Men should be part of this consideration and equation and not leave the burden and responsibility to raise children entirely on the shoulders of the mothers of their children. Before abortion becomes a legislative or legal issue, it is a personal responsibility issue and men need to be personally responsible for their children.
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Women facing the decision over abortion or birth are looking for wisdom and guidance and men have an opportunity to support pregnancy centers in their community to give women the needed support to choose life. If you’re in the DFW area, look to support the Prestonwood Pregnancy Center. If you live in other areas of the country, visit the resource list made available from The Heidi Group. The Human Coalition is also a great organization to know about and support.
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As more women look to give birth to their children, there may be an increased opportunity for men to step up in terms of adoption and foster care. Even if you’re not looking to bring a child into your family, you can support others who are willing. Learn more from CHOSEN: Christ’s Hope for Orphans: Supporting, Embracing, Nurturing.
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Don’t forget about post-abortive resources for women struggling with the trauma and anxiety that often comes from having an abortion. Check out the resources available from Focus on the Family for post-abortive care.
Continuing with our summer theme for the past few weeks, we spend some time getting to know the new head football coach for PCA Donnie Yantis.
Great opportunity to meet our new PCA Athletic Director Brian Brazil and his wife Birdie, who will be serving our PCA community as an assistant in the athletic office!
Guest: Chae and Judy No
Chae and Judy No have four children (and a foreign exchange student living with them) Children: Josiah - named after a king of Israel (entering Middle School next year, 5th grade) Jeremiah - every king needs a prophet! (will be in 4th grade) Charissa - means charisma (going into 1st grade in the fall) Christelle - means a follower of Christ (coming into Pre-K 3 in the fall)
Both Chae and Judy are on staff with a church - Judy working with students as the Nextgen Kids Director and Chae serving as a lead pastor at Regeneration Community Church.
Judy is “1.5 generation” from Korea. Her family was Buddhist, but God visited her mother in a dream and her entire family was converted to Christianity and moved to the United States. They are both formerly from the West Coast and had a friend ask them to move to Texas to help start a church!
What brought the No family to PCA? They heard great things about “Prestonworld” and found out how Biblically-centered the teaching and curriculum is - that’s what they wanted for their family!
What have your children learned from PCA? The goal is to have PCA partner with Chae and Judy as they raise their children - like a “cord of three strands” which is stronger and not easily broken, is the partnership of the school, the church, and the home! At PCA we call this “Kingdom Education” and this is a very critical understanding of the vital importance of each sphere doing its job and working together.
What is the No family doing to keep spiritual development going over the summer? Church isn’t just for Sunday, Christianity isn’t just during certain times - summer isn’t a “time off.” They have already purchased a variety of books for them to read over the summer and have planned family devotional time each morning. Chae has started a discipleship program with his boys and Judy will do that with their girls when they get a little older.
The No family looks to connect with people, have them in their home, so they can share the good news of Jesus Christ with them…especially over dinner!
Book recommendation: The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert: An English Professor’s Journey into Christian Faith by Rosaria Champagne Butterfield
Chae’s “request” - let’s come together as the family of God and the PCA community as we walk together and do life together! Judy - PCA is a place where their identity is in Christ!
Guest: Chef Shaun Vaughn, SAGE Dining
To learn more about SAGE Dining, visit their website or download their Touch of SAGE app.
Parents - encourage your students to TRY the incredible variety offered by SAGE Dining at PCA
SAGE prepares food for 1700 people every day at PCA - and they take into account the varieties of allergies or food sensitivities.
SAGE sources from four different vendors including Hardies, Crystal Creek, Labatt, and Ben E. Keith.
SAGE goes through about 200-300 pounds of protein every day!
About 80% of all the food is made from scratch - prepared fresh here in the kitchen!
Everyday there is a salad and deli bar for students to make their own salad or sandwiches!
Everyday there is fresh cut fruit offered!
What do you do with the leftovers? SAGE uses “batch” cooking so that the meals are being prepared as fresh as possible and it cuts down on leftovers!
SAGE employs nutritionists and dietitians who prepare the recipes and Chef Vaughn and his team follow - they can take an item out of the recipe, but they can’t add to it!
Guest: Dr. Jim Wicker
Professor of New Testament, Southwest Baptist Theological Seminary
jwicker@swbts.edu
- Tips
- Start small.
- Use a simple plan for 1 month.
- Read a chapter in Proverbs each day (31 chapters). It is easy to remember which one.
- Read a chapter in Matthew each day (28 chapters). You will have 2-3 catch up days.
- Read a chapter in Acts each day (28 chapters). You will have 2-3 catch up days.
- Read 5 chapters of Psalms each day (150 chapters).
- Do another simple plan the 2nd month & 3rd month.
You might repeat Proverbs as a checkup to see if your life has changed any from the 1st month.
- Set a specific daily time to do your reading.
What is the best time for you?
- Morning works well for many people.
- Lunch time? Prior to bedtime?
- If you miss one or several days, don’t get discouraged & quit. Either:
- Pick up where you should be when you resume (my suggestion).
- Catch up when you resume (my wife’s suggestion).
- Read for inspiration, encouragement, knowledge, & wisdom.
- Start with prayer.
- Do not zip through the reading just to check off the box.
- As you read, when a question comes up, jot it down to study later.
- After you read a chapter, think through your personal application of it.
- Spend time in prayer. Use a journal or list to keep track of your prayers & God’s answers.
- Build in some accountability.
- Have a sheet to check off the readings.
- Use an app to click.
- Use an accountability partner.
- Do not use daily Bible reading to replace Bible study.
- Online Plans (in chronological order) – Bible.org (5), Bible Study Tools (16), Bible Gateway (18), Blue Letter Bible (8), Olive Tree Bible
Most descriptions of their plans are verbatim from their websites.
Bible.org (NET Bible) (https://bible.org)
- Choices: email
- Translations: NET
- Plans (5):
Read The Bible in 90 Days - Read through the Bible in 90 days. This plan, made popular by another Bible translation publisher is now available in the NET Bible. The plan it self is 88 days long, with two grace days at the end. It repeats every 91 days so you can begin any time and be done in 90 days.
Chronological Bible Reading - Read the Bible every day in the order events transpired.
NT, Psalms and Proverbs - Read through the NT, Psalms and Proverbs in a year.
Read Through the Bible - Read 2-3 chapters a day from Genesis to Revelation.
The Rev. R. M. M'Cheyne, Plan - The whole Bible will be read through in an orderly manner in the course of a year. - The OT once, the NT and Psalms twice
Bible Study Tools (https://www.biblestudytools.com) (Salem Web Network)
- Choices: website with free account
- Translations:
- Go to their website. At top, click on “Bible,” then “Reading Plans”
- Plans (16):
- 71 Days in Isaiah - Carefully work your way through Isaiah in 71 days to experience the full impact of the prophet's words.
- Read from Genesis 1 to Revelation 22 in the order in which the books of the Bible are arranged.
- Chronological - Read the Bible in the order that the events happened.
- Chronological NT - in 3 months you can read the NT in the order that the events happened.
- Classic - Read 3 passages each day, starting with Genesis, Psalms, and Luke. From the original Bible Study Tools reading plan.
- Daily Gospel - This plan focuses on the record of the life of Christ. Length: 45 days.
- Daily Psalm - Read one Psalm per day for a spiritual boost (150 days)
- Daily Wisdom - Find wisdom each day as you read straight through the Psalms, Proverbs, & Song of Solomon. Length: 60 days.
- New Testament - Read straight through the New Testament in 90 days.
- Ninety-Day Challenge - Read the Bible all the way through in only 90 days. It's a challenge well worth taking. Length: 90 days
- Old Testament and New Testament - Read one passage from the Old Testament and one from the New Testament each day. Length: 365 days.
- One-Year Immersion Plan - With this immersive plan, you'll read the Old Testament once and the New Testament three times each year. Length: 365 days
- Prof. Horner's Reading System - A unique and challenging system where you read 10 chapters a day. Length: 365 days
- Stay-on-Track Plan - If you have trouble staying on track, this one-year plan will help. 5 daily readings, with weekends free to catch up or get ahead. Length: 364 days
- The Busy-Life Plan - If your life is busy, this plan will help you get through the Bible at a pace that works for you. You’ll read a short selection each day and complete the Bible in two years. Length: 720 days
- The Christmas Bible Reading Plan - Designed for personal or family reading times, these 25 New Testament readings highlight the birth of Jesus and the purpose for His coming. Related Old Testament passages are also featured daily. Length: 25 days
- Thematic - This Bible reading schedule is thematic or connective in nature. The goal is to make as many associations as possible between the different parts of Scripture while still reading individual books of the Bible from start to finish. Length: 365 days
Bible Gateway (https://www.biblegateway.com) (Zondervan)
- Choices: on the web (free personal account), mobile app (Android & IOS), or receive readings by daily email
- Some 60 English Bible translations (but avoid Jubilee Bible, Orthodox Jewish Bible) & many other languages.
- Choose from 18 different plans):
Old/New Testament - Each day includes a passage from both the Old Testament and New Testament.
Chronological - Read the Bible in the chronological order in which its stories and events occurred.
Beginning - Read the Bible from start to finish, from Genesis to Revelation.
Historical - Read the books of the Bible as they were written historically, according to the estimated date of their writing.
Bible in 90 Days - An intensive Bible reading plan that walks through the entire Bible in 90 days.
Read the Gospels in 40 Days - Read through the four Gospels--Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John--in 40 days.
New Testament in a Year - Read the New Testament from start to finish, from Matthew to Revelation.
The Daily Audio Bible - This reading plan is provided by Brian Hardin from Daily Audio Bible.
Book of Common Prayer - Daily Old and New Testament readings based on the Book of Common Prayer.
Readings for Lent and Easter - Short readings from throughout the Bible that focus on the meaning and events of Easter.
Daily Reading for Personal Growth, 40 Days with God - 40 daily Scripture readings that illustrate the character of God and the nature of faith.
Readings for Celebrating Advent - Scripture passages that focus on the meaning of Advent and Christmas.
Read the New Testament in 24 Weeks - A reading plan that walks through the entire New Testament in 24 weeks of daily readings.
Verse of the Day - A daily inspirational and encouraging Bible verse.
Revised Common Lectionary (Complementary) - Daily Bible readings that follow the church liturgical year, with thematically matched Old and New Testament readings.
Revised Common Lectionary (Semicontinuous) - Daily Bible readings that follow the church liturgical year, with sequential stories told across multiple weeks.
M’Cheyne Bible Reading Plan The classic M'Cheyne plan--read the Old Testament, New Testament, and Psalms or Gospels every day.
Proverbs Monthly - Read through the book of Proverbs every month of the year.
Blue Letter Bible (https://www.blueletterbible.org)
- Choices: thru the website, Android app, Apple app (not as developed)
- Subscribe to one of 8 reading plans (all are available as a free downloadable pdf)
- Canonical Plan (1Yr) (Gen.-Rev. straight through, 7 days a week)
- Canonical Five-Day Plan (2Yr) (same as above, but 5 days a week)
- Blended Plan (1Yr) (non-traditional sequence of OT & NT books, 7 days a week; most days have OT & NT readings, such as: day one: Gen. 1-3; Rom. 1. It goes Gen. & Rom., Isa. & Mark, etc.
- Chronological Plan (1Yr) (reads according to when the events occurred
- Historical Plan (1Yr) (reads OT in Jewish order of Law-Writings-Prophets; NT in order written)
- Life Journal Plan (1Yr) (reads thru OT once & NT twice; it is a blended non-traditional order 7- day plan, produced by http://lifejournal.cc/)
- OT & NT Each Day (1Yr) (readings from both testaments most days and in canonical order, such as: day one-Gen. 1-3 & Matt. 1)
-
OT & NT Each Day (2Yr) (same as above, but at a slower pace, 7 days a week, such as: day one-Gen. 1-3; day two-Matt. 1)
-
You can either "Subscribe" or "Subscribe with Accountability." Setting your reading with accountability, makes it so when you click the "accountability on" button you will be able to see if you are on track or behind on your reading progress.
Bible by Olive Tree (https://www.olivetreebible.com)
- Choices: Android & IOS app
- Translations: You choose four free translations and can pay for additional ones in English or other languages.
Guest: Karol Ladd
Motherhood is the toughest job you’ve ever loved. It drains you and strains you, pulls you in all directions. It is also one of the most important jobs - and we can lose sight of that fact.
“MOM” pillow - Manager of Messes
“MOM” should be Molders of Mankind!
Seasons - there are different seasons/times in the life of a person and family
Things to remember:
- This is just a season, it won’t be this way forever
- You are not alone. Even if everyone else leaves you, God is with you!
You may not have the patience for each given day or situation, but God does! Prayer for the young mom - God, give me the patience for today; God give me the strength for today!
Important to:
- have a mentor mom
- have friends with kids of similar ages
Motherhood Motto - “Everything is Hard”
How should I handle hard?
- Victim - self-pity
- Angry - lash out at others
- Dependent on the strength of the Lord!
Warning to moms - it is easy to become isolated and alone. You need people. Start with looking for people you can help and start building quality relationships with godly moms.
The days are long, but the years are short. Embrace the moments and don’t miss them!
“Be Present” - wherever you are, but all there!
Recommended Resources by Karol Ladd:
The Power of a Positive Mom
Becoming a Woman of the Word
A Woman’s Passionate Pursuit of God
Positive Leadership Principles for Women
Pursuing God in the Quiet Places
Guest: Brittany Andrews
Please forgive the underlying static on this recording.
Brittany is a Pre-K 3 teacher at PCA. She shares her story of wrestling with depression. Some recommended resources that might be helpful to you after listening include the following:
Between Two Worlds: The Inner Life of Children of Divorce by Elizabeth Marquardt
When People are Big and God is Small by Ed Welch
Depression: The Way Up When You Are Down by Ed Welch
Depression: Looking Up from the Stubborn Darkness by Ed Welch
Depression: Walking from Darkness into Dawn by June Hunt
Walking on Water When You Feel Like You’re Drowning: Finding Hope in Life’s Darkest Moments by Tommy Nelson
Guest: June Hunt
Biblical Counseling Keys
Hope for the Heart - Providing Biblical Hope and Practical Help
May is Mental Health Awareness Month - check out some resources on this subject.
Four problem parenting styles:
- Dependent - parents that are possessive, manipulative, suspicious, over-involved - Rebekah in the Bible, protected her favorite child Jacob through deceit and manipulation. Parents should release control of their children to God - check out Proverbs 3:5-6.
- Domineering - parents are over-controlling, inflexible, performance-based, hypercritical. Children can be either subservient or strong-willed; under-achievers or over-achievers. We see this from Laban in the Bible - a domineering father. Biblical counter - whoever wants to be great among you, must be a servant. Don’t make things all about you - seek first the Kingdom of heaven. Domineering parents are filled with pride.
- Doting - over-protective, kids can become spoiled; yield to pressure, kids can be manipulative; desperate for harmony, kids can become disrespectful; rescue too much, kids become irresponsible. Let your children make decisions on their own and allow them to fail - failure can be a great teacher. Lawn-mower parents try to mow down every obstacle in the path of their children. Prepare the child for the road, not the road for the child. Biblical example: Eli, who will not discipline his sons and they become irresponsible and worthless men. Parents, you need to be “parents” to your children, not their “friend.”
- Detached - avoiding responsibility, apathetic, ambivalent, unwilling to set boundaries; children can become self-sufficient, insecure, undisciplined, lack of follow through. Biblical example: King David, successful in so many other aspects of his life, but not as a parent - did not discipline his own children.
Proverbs 29:17 - Discipline your son, and he will give you rest; he will give delight to your heart.
Biblical parenting style: Discipling - Goal is to develop Christ-like character in your children. Parents must lead by example, implement healthy and biblical boundaries that include consequences for crossing those boundaries. When parents implement healthy boundaries, kids are secure. When parents are encouraging responsible behavior, kids are confident. When parents are comforting, kids become compassionate. When parents are loving without conditions, kids become caring. Biblical example: Timothy, raised by a godly mother and grandmother who model sincere faith which help Timothy to become a strong man of God.
Suggested Resources:
Bonding with Your Teen Through Boundaries by June Hunt
Parenting: Steps for Successful Parenting by June Hunt
Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul David Tripp
Guest: Hunter Dehn
Find out more about Hunter at Hunter Dehn Realty Group
214-471-5007 or email: hunter@hunterdehn.com
What things should you consider when buying a home? LOCATION - remember, this is where you’re raising your family. Are you close to your church, school, work, etc.?
Do I need a real estate agent to help me buy or sell my home - can’t I do this on my own? First, you get what you pay for! Second, having an expert can greatly increase the value of your home in selling or your ability to get a fair deal as a buyer.
I’m not in the market to buy or sell right now, should I look into upgrading my home with the equity I have in it? If I do make some upgrades, where should I spend that money for the best return?
Want to make upgrades to your home, walk in and look at it as if you’re a new buyer - what do you see that needs to be repaired/replaced, where can you make a quick splash for a positive visual impact? Also, don’t try to cover up a bad smell with 5 Glade plugins! New lights help tremendously - and fresh paint is usually a quick way to brighten up a home.
Pay attention to interest rates - which will determine how much it costs to borrow money.
Guest: Dr. Rick Fowler
Professor of Psychology at Truett-McConnell University
“Lawnmower parenting” - mowing down all the obstacles in the path of our children, trying to make life “easier” for our kids - is this the best strategy for our children long-term?
Dr. Fowler - if a child has a problem, I’d say it’s often 60% the problem of the parents!
When everything is done for our children, they don’t have to learn how to do anything. As a result, they expect things to be done for them…even when they become adults.
Most of the problems that our kids have are a result of the fact that too many parents want to be “friends” with their children.
How do we, as parents, move from doing things for our children to actually teaching our children how to do things on their own.
- First realize that if you have more than one child, you’ll have very different children - different skills, temperaments, etc. - so each one has to be “trained” in the way that THEY should go
- Allow your children to be part of the planning process so that when they face consequences for not following through on the plans, it was THEIR plan to begin with!
- Understand the differences between “rules” and “preferences” - don’t compromise on the rules, but you can bend on the preferences.
- Give your children consequences for not following through on the action plans - and you can even give your children some say in the actual consequences!
- Routines help children develop executive functioning skills and learn responsibility!
- After school, lay out what work needs to be done. The biggest struggle in homework is getting STARTED.
- Help students learn to utilize a calendar - planning is a very important life skill.
- Allow your children to try things…and fail…to help them find where their passions lie.
Parents, we need to also ask “what motivates us” - what do we hope to accomplish by training our children - what are our goals for our children?
Guest: Dr. Jonathan Teague
Good Friday services at Prestonwood, April 15
English services at Plano and North campuses: 6:30 pm
Prestonwood en Español at Plano and Lewisville campuses: 6:30 pm
If you would like to be baptized, please contact baptism@prestonwood.org or call 972-820-5211 (Plano campus) or kgreenwell@prestonwood.org or call 972-798-6702 (North campus).
Easter Worship services at Prestonwood, Saturday, April 16 or Sunday, April 17
English services - Plano campus, Sunday at 8:00, 9:30, and 11:00 am
English services - North campus, Saturday at 5:00 pm; Sunday at 8:30, 10:00, and 11:30 am
Prestonwood en Español at Plano and Lewisville campuses: Sunday at 2:00 pm
Easter Buffet (click to register) at Plano campus - Sunday at 10:30 and Noon
Cost: $16.95 for adults 12 and up, $9.95 for children ages 3-11, free for children 2 and under
Establishing family traditions for Easter:
- Worship with the family of God - don’t underestimate the value of corporate worship, the gathering of God’s people in God’s house opening the Word of God and lifting high the name of Jesus!
- Share a meal with your family celebrating Easter. Open the Scriptures and read the Word of God as a family.
- Dress up and wear something bright, festive, and celebratory for Easter Sunday to commemorate the “new life” in Christ that is seen in the festive and spring (pastel) colors!
What’s so “good” about Good Friday?
If there is no death and burial, there won’t be a payment for sin and there wouldn’t have been a resurrection and new life in Christ!
Guest: Jason Mick, PBC Student Pastor
Dates for BEACH CAMP: June 12-17, 2022
To register visit PrestonwoodStudents.org
Jason also mentioned some helpful Parent Resources available on the Prestonwood Students website that cover a variety of topics from College Prep to Dating, Depression & Anxiety to LGBTQ - check out these resources and plan some engaging conversations with your teens this summer!
Guest: Jaco Booyens
Parental Warning: the subjects that Jaco is exploring in this podcast are more of an adult/mature nature, not intended for younger aged children.
Please excuse the difficulties in the recording.
Learn more about Jaco Booyens and check out all the different aspects of Jaco’s ministry by visiting his website Jaco Booyens Ministries.
By when should we do what? How and when do we introduce our children to the various conversations related to human sexuality? Culture wants to introduce our children to sexual aspects and themes at a very, very young age. How do we, as Christian parents, both protect our children and their minds from these concepts…while also looking to equip and prepare them for the issues of the world?
Who is your family? What’s your family code or creed? Is who you are lined up with the Word of God? If you have a family code/creed, then you can compare different life decisions to the code that you’ve set up and agreed to - if something doesn’t line up with your family creed, then you can more easily say no to that concept.
Parents, it is our job to “frame” the conversations and issues for our family.
Average age of “porn entry” is a young boy aged 8.
Jaco - Satan can’t have a family, so he’s coming after yours. Wake up, parents!!!
Minimester Highlights
Parents, I hope you’ll enjoy the testimonies of some of our PCA US students as they share about their minimester trips. The students you’ll hear from are Katelyn Teague (sophomore), Lowery DeVore (senior), Cole Rumsey (senior), and Tate O’Neal (sophomore).
If you want to see and hear minimester testimonies and highlights from all the trips taken during that week, check out the two different links - first to the PCA Upper School chapel following minimester week where students share from their experiences with their classmates and/or the minimester highlight testimonies offered during the PCA faculty culture meeting:
PCA Campus Ministry chapels
Minimester highlights at PCA faculty culture meeting
Guest: Lorne C. Book, J.D.
Estate planning - your “estate” includes anything that a person owns in their personal capacity. Estate planning is the process of leaving your family more than a mess (regardless of the size of your estate).
Estate planning isn’t just for you - if your parents are alive, you need to find out if they have a will.
Two categories of estate planning:
- Death - who is going to own your property after you pass?
- Disability - who is going to step in and make decisions for you if you are unable to?
Power of Attorney (POA):
- Durable POA - for financial matters
- Medical POA - for medical decisions, coupled with authorization to release medical records under HIPAA
Life Support Directive - your “end-of-life” care - make the decision before you are unable to make it, takes the pressure off your loved ones to make these decisions during a difficult time
Important addition - to have these tough conversations with family members means that you need to address relational rifts and seek to repair those while you have time.
When your kids turn 18, they are a legal adult and have the capacity to legally contract on their own - be mindful of those individuals and companies who would like to have access to your young adult. Now is the time to talk to your kids about planning early for the important decisions they’ll get to make.
Lorne C. Book, J.D.
Attorney and Counselor at Law
BOOK LAW FIRM
4425 Plano Pkwy., Unit 103
Carrollton, Texas
T: 214-305-6974
lbook@booklawfirm.com
www.booklawfirm.com
Guest: Dr. Connor Bales, Prestonwood Baptist Church, North Campus Pastor
New book: Counted Worthy: A Father’s Perspective on the Theology of Suffering
Connor shares their family’s intimate journey with two special needs daughters - Libby and Hannah. Both girls were diagnosed with the rare genetic disease called Trisomy 16p.
“Everyone suffers, just not all of our suffering is the same.” Connor Bales
Joni Eareckson Tada says in her book When God Weeps, “This is good news for the suffering soul. The Son of God did not exempt Himself from affliction but lived through it and learned from it.”
Connor Bales: I counsel people who engage with those in suffering to usually say only three things:
- I’m so sorry - it is critically important that we acknowledge sadness and grief over whatever it is that they are suffering
- This is awful - every sufferer should be validated in their suffering with the acknowledgement that whatever they are facing and enduring is bad for them
- I love you - the unconditional Gospel-reminder that we love and support one another in the midst of suffering is Christ’s work in and through us
Other great resources:
Stephanie Hubach - Same Lake, Different Boat: Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability
D.A. Caron and Kathleen Nielson - Resurrection Life in a World of Suffering
Joni Eareckson Tada - When God Weeps
Randy Alcorn - If God is Good: Faith in the Midst of Suffering and Evil
Guest: Austin Gentry
10 Things Every Christian Should Know For College: A Student’s Guide on Doubt, Community, & Identity
Best advice: make sure as a parent you’re having meaningful and purposeful conversations with your students about areas where the world will challenge them - SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity), sex, alcohol, the goodness of God, suffering, death, etc…and you need to begin these conversations probably at a younger age than you might think!
Another resource that might be helpful - Surviving Religion 101: Letters to a Christian Student on Keeping the Faith in College by Michael Kruger
Great point from Austin - parents, you’ve already demonstrated that you’re committed to the spiritual success of your students - let’s keep that going! Those critical conversations need to happen not only before your students head off to college, but while they are on a college campus…and beyond.
If you’re looking for a great podcast for your college-aged or older students, check out LifeTalk, the PCA Alumni podcast hosted by PCA Alumni Director Megan Rogers and PCA Worldview Director Dan Panetti
Guests: PCA history teacher Cindy deLeon, PCA senior Sydney Brown, PCA alumni Dennis Phillips
Cindy deLeon (PCA history teacher):
Black History Month - goes back to 1915 with Carter Woodson
1926 the second week of February set aside for recognition of black contributions to American history because of the connection to the birthdays of both Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln
1976 President Gerald Ford officially recognized February as Black History Month
Black History Month actually enriches American history - it doesn’t minimize the contributions of others, but allows everyone to see themselves in the contributions of history
Dr. Mildred Johnson
Sydney Brown (PCA senior):
Black History Month used to be just another month to learn history, but recently I’ve realized the importance of representation
Dennis Phillips (PCA alumni):
Black History Month was always important to me, but my perspective has changed in the past couple years - I’ve learned how important black history is, especially to American history. Would love to see a time when black history doesn’t have to be separated from the rest of American history.
Guest: Matt Shaheen
Excited to have my Texas State Representative Matt Shaheen share about all things related to the MARCH 1st PRIMARY ELECTION! Early voting has already begun and will be open from Feb. 14-25 - so make sure you get out and vote. Remember, the Primary Election is the opportunity to select your preferred candidate from within your particular political party - so this is not Democrats vs. Republicans, but you’re voting for your preferred candidate in one party and the winner of the Primary Election will face off against the candidate from the other political party in the November Election.
Also, don’t forget that many of these contested elections will have RUN-OFFS - and there is an even smaller voter turnout for these elections - so don’t sleep on the process - get out and vote and then pay attention to the results and see if the candidates that you wanted are going to be in a run-off election later in April or May.
Finally, there has been some redistricting from the Texas State Legislature that went into effect in January - so you need to check before you go vote to see who is representing you! Check out this Who Represents Me site made available from the Texas Capitol. Also, visit the county elections site for your particular county to find out about voting locations and even to download a sample ballot for the primary election:
Collin County residents
Denton County residents
Dallas County residents
As always, we are grateful to live in a free country where we have an opportunity and responsibility to be part of the governing process - elections are important, so be an informed and active citizen and vote! One consideration I use for selecting quality candidates is the advice that Jethro gave to Moses in Exodus 18:20 where he suggested that Moses select leaders who 1) are capable, 2) fear God, 3) are trustworthy, and 4) hate dishonest gain. In other words, look for men and women of character who are able to actually do the job that you are selecting them to do!
Guest: Dr. Jim Denison
Check out Dr. Denison’s latest book:
The Coming Tsunami: Why Christians Are Labeled Intolerant, Irreverant, Oppressive, and Dangerous - and How We Can Turn the Tide
Parents, these are some incredible resources that you ought to check out - from a daily email update on how to see the issues of the day through the lens of God’s Word to several incredible podcasts specifically for Christian parents - check out all that Denison Ministries offers.
Denison Ministries:
- The Denison Forum exists to thoughtfully engage the issues of the day from a biblical perspective. Cultural apologist Dr. Jim Denison offers news discerned differently through The Daily Article, his daily email newsletter and podcast, and through books, interviews, articles, and more at DenisonForum.org
- First15 is a daily devotional that seeks to provide believers of all backgrounds with a unique experience with God in the first 15 minutes of their day. First15 is designed to help readers have an encounter with God that leads them to a sincere search to love God and others.
- Christian Parenting was created to give parents the practical and spiritual help they need, on as many platforms and in as many ways as possible. Check out the Christian Parenting podcast called Pardon the Mess with host Cynthia Yanof along with several other outstanding podcasts for parents on their Christian Parenting Podcast Network.
- Foundations with Janet Denison was created to help anyone learn how to study the Bible and apply God’s unchanging truth to their daily lives.
Guest: Tasha Calvert, Prestonwood’s Women’s Minister
Find out more about the Prestonwood Women’s Ministry by visiting the Prestonwood website or the women’s ministry Facebook pages for the Plano and North campuses.
Love the new “motto” for the women’s ministry:
Bible study is not a class you take; it’s a rhythm you keep as a believer.
Also, make sure you stay tuned for the new podcast coming soon.
Guest: Stephanie Yates
Stephanie taught at PCA Plano as a writing coordinator and 7th grade English teacher, then moved to 5th grade and taught before returning to teaching at PCA North Campus.
Stephanie was diagnosed as “anorexic, exercise bulimic” - which is an eating/identity disorder. Her parents divorced when she was young and always identified as a “pleaser.” A boyfriend made a comment about her weight. When things seem difficult, there are times that a person wants to “control” something in their life and controlling what they eat is one default and many young people select.
What’s the difference between being thin, healthy, or anorexic? Looks for signs that things are not “healthy” - wearing baggy clothes to “hide” a person’s real appearance, not eating enough to maintain a growing, healthy lifestyle (consider what they’re involved with), working out constantly, eating by themselves, going to the bathroom immediately after eating, an obsession with body image, etc…
Note that an eating disorder isn’t just something that young women struggle with, many boys and young men struggle with this issue as well.
How do you get help? Here are a few places that Stephanie recommends for help in either understanding more about eating disorders or to actually get assistance with a loved one:
Eating Recovery Center - Plano
Girls to Women Health and Wellness
The Center for Pediatric Eating Disorders (Children’s Hospital, Plano)
Recommendations by Stephanie are not to be considered endorsements that these institutions address issues from a biblical perspective. Prayerfully proceed with getting the needed attention and help that your child needs, but also remember to address the spiritual components that exist as well.
Guests: Kim McIntyre and Jon Lineberger
Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet
Sunday, April 24th at The Star in Frisco - doors open at 5:30 pm, dinner and program at 6:00 pm
Ford Center at the Star, 9 Cowboys Way, Frisco, TX 75034
Attire for the evening: Western chic (boots, jeans, cowboy hat, and a lot of bling!)
Award recipient: Dr. James and Shirley Dobson
The Zig Ziglar Servant Leadership Award Banquet not only honors an individual who represents Zig Ziglar's Christ-like humility and service, but all proceeds from the banquet directly benefit Sponsor-A-Child, the tuition assistance program at Prestonwood Christian Academy.
To financially support the Zig event and PCA’s Sponsor-A-Child, visit: https://www.zigziglaraward.org/supporters
For tickets to the Zig event, visit:https://www.zigziglaraward.org/zigziglar/zig-tickets
Guest: Jannique Stewart
Jannique is a speaker for the Life Training Institute - a pro-life apologetics training ministry.
PCA will host a parent training session on Tuesday evening, January 18th at 6:30 pm in the Horner Training Center. Parents, you'll want to attend this incredible and valuable training with Jannique - grab a friend and neighbor and take them with you! Jannique will also speak to our PCA students, 7th-12th grade, at both the North and Plano campuses.
PCA is in the middle of our Winter Sports season - we are talking with PCA Athletic Director Chris Cunningham about all things basketball, soccer and swimming - and we are also looking ahead to the 2022 Spring Sports season! Parent meeting for the Spring Sports is coming up on January 13th - so be looking for information about that meeting.
Parents, as we look to start off the New Year right, take a minute to consider your Bible reading plan for 2022. Our guests this week include two PCA moms, Julie Hildebrand and Anna May, who encourage you to prepare yourself, make a plan, and read your Bibles this year! Take a listen and be encouraged!
If you want your children to grow spiritually, then you have to model the way - parents, you have to make time to be in God’s Word.
Priority question - how much time are you (and your children) spending on your phones - social media, etc?
What does it look like to have a personal Bible study time?
- Prepare your heart and mind. Sin will keep you from this Book…and this Book will keep you from sin.
- Have a reading plan - pick a book, go through the entire Bible (One Year Bible) (could do chronologically, too), pick a theme, etc…
- Read “repetitiously” - read a passage over and over and over again.
- Writing in your Bible - journaling Bibles, interwoven/interleaved Bible
- Check out the incredible resources/videos at The Bible Project
The world is constantly communicating with you - make the effort to ensure that you’re hearing from God’s WORD as well.
Parents, I know you’re going to be thrilled to meet the PCA Campus Ministry Team - take a listen and learn more about who they are and what they do to serve our PCA community!
PCA Campus Ministry Team Members:
Lainie Montgomery
Stephen Bryant
Courtney Caldwell (PCA Alum, 2012)
Caitlee Nabasny (PCA Alum, 2011)
Caleb Snyder
The Campus Ministry team at PCA coordinates all things in terms of spiritual growth and development for our students and enjoys doing life together with our staff and families. The Campus Ministry team is responsible for the US and MS retreats, chapels (10 each week!), advisory time, Pride of Brothers/Society of Sisters, Red Ribbon Week, various aspects of Homecoming (including H2OCO) Service Project Day, Texas STOMP, Junior/Senior Banquet, National Day of Prayer Graduation, and Operation Christmas Child (to read more about these events, click here). They serve students, families, and faculty at both the Plano and North campuses.
PCA parents, I am so excited to share this incredible episode with you - our guest is Dr. Jeremiah Johnston and he's talking about his new book Unleashing Peace - Experiencing God’s Shalom in Your Pursuit of Happiness - you're going to want to get a copy or two of this resource! Below are just a few highlights of what Jeremiah will share in his book and on this podcast - these truths can literally transform your life and the life of your family!
It saddens me that the church is woefully behind in helping people with mental health issues, because every single person is somewhere on the mental wellness trajectory. Mental wellness is a conversation that includes all people of God.
According to the World Health Organization, depression is now the leading cause of disability in the world.
The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness as the active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.
As I see it, Jesus was talking about and teaching wellness before anyone, but he used a different word: shalom - the best form of wellness there is.
Stress kills people and poisons our bodies. Debilitating anxiety has become ubiquitous, unfortunately increasing in all age levels. Rates of major depression in teenages increased 52 percent in the 2010s from the previous decade and 63 percent among young adults.
Shalom, along with its variations, appears 550 times in the Scriptures.
50 Happiness is not a feeling; it is a lifestyle, according to Jesus.
Peace happens through an action verb: thinking.
Philippians 4:8 - Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
Philippians 4:9 - What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.
Each time you experience anxiety, try to identify the lies you are thinking and instead focus on the truth. Common lies include: God has forgotten me. God doesn’t love me. God has given up on me. I just committed that sin for the hundredth time. I am never going to make it. I am alone. I am a failure.
Key application: You are never more like Jesus than when you - with great concern (not condemnation or anger or frustration) - intervene with someone in their time of affliction.
So how can we implement the “Presence Principle”? Two words: create margin. We have to resist the busyness of the time that pulls us from the unscheduled moments to be the presence of Jesus for others (and in doing so, experience His power in fresh ways in our own lives).
To experience peace, we must learn to live by faith in the promises and character of God. No one lives by having faith in explanations.
The Bible presents vulnerability as a necessity of balanced Christian living.
“My grace is sufficient for you.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)
The seventeenth-century Puritan thinker Richard Baxter keely wrote in a treasured hymn, “Christ leads me through no darker rooms than he went through before.”
You see, our bodies, including our brains, are part of who we are, just as the Holy Spirit is part of who we are. It’s a whole package: body, soul, and spirit. To be at our best, we need to invest time and energy pursuing our best possible health spiritually, physically, and emotionally.
Immediate Steps to Care for Your Body and Mind
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Get enough sleep
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Have daily fitness time
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Work on daily stress management
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Be intentional about what you put into your body
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Maintain a healthy weight
Congratulations PCA on your 25th Anniversary - and thank you to the Caldwell family for all that you did to make PCA a reality! Eddie, Paula, Josh (2010 graduate), Courtney (2012 graduate), and Ryan (2016 graduate) Caldwell.
Eddie Caldwell shared what he thought made PCA the best school and he said that the best part of PCA then, and now, is still the faculty and staff of PCA - those men and women who are with your kids eight hours a day!
Paula Caldwell shared some great life advice for younger parents - enjoy the time, it goes by quickly!!!
Eddie Caldwell also shared a profound question - How do parents raise their children in this world today without a solid Biblical worldview foundation as part of the equation? Well, if you’re at PCA, you’ve already answered that you don’t want to try to raise your children without a solid Biblical worldview as their foundation!
Don't forget to celebrate PCA's 25th year of serving our community with a Christ-centered education founded on God's Word! PCA parents, thank you for being a part of this incredible school - and a special thank you to all the men and women, like the Caldwell family, who helped launch this vision 25 years ago!
In this episode, you'll hear from Joel T. Rutherford - PCA Director of Fine Arts. Mr. Rutherford is in his 21st year at PCA. To listen to Joel’s professional performances, visit the website for Acoustix, or you can listen to Joel sing our country’s National Anthem at the Mavs game
Mr. Rutherford shares about so many great things happening at PCA in our Art, Band, Choir, and Theater programs at both the PCA Plano and North Campus including that PCA Band just won the TPSMEA All State competition!!!
PCA Band’s Facebook page
PCA offers a play in the fall, and a musical in the spring
PCA also has a Black Box Theater
Support the Arts at PCA
Prestonwood Baptist Church Tree Lighting Festival, Wednesday, Dec. 1 from 5-8 pm
Excellence in all things and all things to the glory of God!
Parents, this is more of a call to prayerful action than an informational podcast episode - we get to hear the inspirational story of Tim and Kati Matthews, both staff members at Prestonwood Baptist Church and parents to three PCA lions. The Matthews have a moving and powerful story of God opening their hearts, through some difficult circumstances, to the idea of foster care and/or adoption. After giving birth to two biological daughters, that desire to adopt actually became a reality for the Matthews family as they welcomed J.J. into their family as their son. Listen as Tim and Kati share about the opportunities and challenges of adoption and the call to obedience to be available for God to use as He sees fit.
To find out more about fostering and/or adoption, check out the CHOSEN Ministry at Prestonwood at their website ChosenforChildren.org. CHOSEN Ministry meets regularly at Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, Texas. CHOSEN stands for: Christ’s Hope for Orphans: Supporting, Embracing, Nurturing. It is CHOSEN'S collective mission to raise awareness of the need for permanent families for orphan and foster children in the USA and abroad, while supporting families considering or who have already adopted, as an outreach ministry to engage people in the life and love of Jesus Christ through Prestonwood Church.
For purposes of providing a framework to understand foster care and adoption, currently more than 11,000 foster children are currently in foster care throughout the DFW Metroplex, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. However, there are only about 7,000 licensed foster homes, which leaves almost one-third of children in state care without a domestic setting to call home.
From the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services website:
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) oversees all foster care standards and requirements. These are some of the basic requirements for potential foster parents; find a complete list here.
- Foster parents must be at least 21 years old; potential foster parents working with Jonathan’s Place must be at least 23 years old.
- There may be no more than six children in the foster home, whether they are adopted, biological or foster children.
- Each child requires their own amount of space based on square feet.
- Children ages 6 or older cannot share a room with a child of the opposite gender.
- There are no set income requirements, but foster parents’ financial stability is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
3+ WAYS TO HELP FOSTER PARENTS—WITHOUT FOSTERING
Being a foster family might not be for everyone, but there is something almost anyone in our community can do to help kids in need. Here are three ways to support foster families:
- Babysit and mentor: Whether through respite care designed to give foster parents a break or just for an occasional outing, babysitting can be arranged formally through an agency or on an individual basis. Mentoring at the residential shelters on-site at Jonathan’s Place can also be formalized with a background check and official inclusion as a volunteer.
- Give material resources: A foster parent spends an average of $500 on each new placement, according to leading statistics, as a foster child usually arrives without any personal items. It’s uncertain how long the placement will last, and foster children often take items with them. Items such as clothing, shoes, diapers, sheets and other daily-use articles can make an important difference in a child’s quality of life. A child often changes schools when he or she goes to a new foster home; for that reason, school supplies are needed year-round. Amazon.com’s wishlists and monthly donations are also easy ways to give.
- Sponsor a unique interest: Foster children are just like kids everywhere, with interests such as sports, cheer, music, dance and other motivating passions that instill confidence and build skills. Continuing with a previously-established routine through a series of classes or being involved with a familiar pursuit kids have an affinity for already can also provide a sense of normalcy to a child whose life is otherwise in transition. Consider sponsoring an after-school activity, purchasing needed items such as band uniforms or dance shoes, or coordinating a themed birthday party.
Another interesting note - The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reports that 6,397 sibling groups in the state of Texas are currently in foster care. Of those, 33.8% of them are not placed together. The multiple losses a child experiences when entering foster care is compounded by the unexpected loss of sibling separation. As one foster care alumni shared, “Being separated from my entire life was bad enough but being separated from my siblings is still painful.”
Parents, you’ll want to sign up your 7th - 12th grade students for FREEDOM WEEKEND asap! Visit the Prestonwood Students website to find out all the information you’ll need and to sign up your students for this incredible event. Everything (and I mean everything) you need to know, including the ability to purchase MERCH (merchandise) for your students is on this site. Mark your calendars now for FREEDOM WEEKEND - Feb. 2, 4-6, 2022. And, don’t forget that the location and ability to sign up for BEACH CAMP is announced at FREEDOM WEEKEND - you won’t want to miss that either!
Listen to the heart and vision of Lisa McNair, Head of School at St. Timothy’s Christian Academy, a school “made up of extraordinary students, encouraging parents, and great educators and support staff” addressing the various learning differences and styles of their student body.
From the STCA website:
St. Timothy Christian Academy exists to support families and educate students with learning differences in grades K-12 in a redemptive Christian environment, helping them realize their full potential as a child of God.
Recognizing the unique learning style of each student, we are committed to bringing academic success to students who may have faced failures in traditional classroom settings. Skilled in innovative teaching methods and approaches, our staff strives to stimulate the learning style of each student through the adaptation of individualized curriculum, specialized assessments, pacing, and grading that is tailored to each child. We celebrate their differences!
Certified teaching professionals provide a multi-sensory learning environment in all core classes, as well as Bible, Art, technology, and adaptive P.E. classes. Social skills are an integral part of the educational program. Our staff incorporates social skills instruction in all that we do, interweaving Biblical principles. Social skills are modeled for our students in daily interaction with peer interns from Prestonwood Christian Academy.
Our students have at least one diagnosed learning difference. These could include, but are not limited to:
- ADD/ADHD
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Processing and Speech Disorders
- Dyslexia and Dysgraphia
- Mood Disorders
- Chromosomal Disorders
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
We have a low student/teacher ratio which enables us to meet each child’s individual learning needs. Each of our certified teachers employ a multi-sensory approach to instruction.
To learn more about STCA, please visit their website at https:www.staplano.org/
Parents, get ready for an incredible two-day Biblical worldview training conference - PCA’s Biblical Worldview Institute (BWi) will be Tuesday and Wednesday, November 9th and 10th. This year’s theme is Civility and the line-up of speakers and topics is fantastic - we would love to see you for any or all of the sessions! On Tuesday, students will hear from Alexandra Hudson, author of Against Politeness, a soon-to-be-released book on why “civility” is more important than “politeness” in our current cultural climate. There will also be a panel discussion with college presidents Dr. Adam Wright (DBU) and Dr. Blake Thompson (Mississippi College) along with Alliance Defending Freedom attorney and former PCA parent Ryan Bangert discussing the “cancel culture” on the college campus and how as Christians we need to learn to engage and not shy away from the opportunity to live boldly for Christ while in college. The final session for Tuesday morning will feature Dr. Jeremiah Johnston, president of the Christian Thinkers Society and author of a new book titled Unleashing Peace: Experiencing God’s Shalom in Your Pursuit of Happiness.
On Wednesday morning, students will get to hear from Darrell Harrison with Just Thinking Ministries as well as Caleb Kaltenbach, author of Messy Truth: How to Foster Community without Sacrificing Conviction - incredible book, convicting and encouraging at the same time! And Wednesday’s session will end with a crowd favorite - Christian illusionist Jim Munroe - check out his I Am Second testimony!
To learn more about the BWi event and to register for attendance, check out the PCA website HERE. To check out some of our incredible past BWi conferences and speakers, click HERE.
Listen as we learn from the incredibly wise PCA college and career counseling department at PCA, Plano and North campuses - Jodi Benavidez, Toni King, and Kristin Dysart share some great insight for parents about how to prepare for the next chapter for their students following graduation from PCA. What does it mean for a college to be a “good fit” for your student? How important are grades and SAT/ACT scores? Should I attend the same college as my parents and/or friends? What role does your faith play in selecting a college? Listen and learn from the vast experience of these incredible women who want to make the college search process smooth and successful for your family!
PCA Parent Podcast - Dr. Shailendra Thomas
The King’s Academy
469-372-2502
office@tkadallas.org
https://www.tkadallas.org/
Served for the past 25 years for three outstanding Christian schools
Head of School for Fellowship Christian Academy
Head of School at Scofield Christian School
Head of School at The King’s Academy
Member of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
An exemplary education with a Christ-centered distinctive meeting the needs of a lower socio-economic community in the Bonton (Dallas) area.
Prayer requests:
- Want to continue to expand one grade each year
- Want to get a building of their own - and stay in the 75215 zip code
- Looking for partners who want to sponsor a child’s monthly education costs
Parents, we have something special for you this week - you are going to have an opportunity to listen to another PCA podcast called LifeTalk, which is our podcast to our PCA alumni - this one features 2017 PCA graduate Emilie Rhodes, who went on to attend and graduate from The University of Texas and has recently returned to PCA as an English teacher on the Plano campus. Emilie does a remarkable job of sharing with you not only her experiences here at PCA, but also how prepared and equipped she was even for the hostile environment at UT - and she shares about one of the great things that sets PCA apart - the incredible connection of PCA students and faculty members - not just in the classroom, but outside of PCA as well. We hope that you'll listen and be encouraged by Emilie's story.
Listen and learn more about dyslexia from reading specialist Dena Goddard during Dyslexia Awareness Month. Dena will be hosting a parent information meeting on Monday, Oct. 11th at 6:30 pm in the Horner - come and learn even more and bring a friend as well!
Learning about all things Homecoming (or "Forthcoming" for the North Campus) - so much to know - decorating, parades, floats, dances, mum and garter exchange...mind-blowing! Oh, and don't forget, there are special festivities for those alumni coming home for the game (Plano campus) that you don't want them to miss!
Parents, listen to find out more about the incredible opportunity to financially support all the amazing things happening at PCA Plano and North, STCA, and TKA - North Texas Giving Day is a fun, exciting, and energetic opportunity to give to the annual fund that helps your school go above and beyond!
PCA is a ministry of Prestonwood Baptist Church and there are so many incredible opportunities for your family to connect with at Prestonwood. Jason Snyder, Minister of Spiritual Development, shares about the incredible variety of opportunities for your family - from kids ministry to student ministry to adult ministry - from LifeGroups to PSO athletics - Prestonwood is a community of believers doing life together - come listen and find out more about it!
PCA Athletic Director and varsity football coach Chris Cunningham shares his vision for Kingdom Athletics. Athletics is an incredible teaching tool for students at PCA - as a parent, you'll be encouraged to hear Coach Cunningham's vision for how sports can be used to train students in their walk with the Lord.
Get to know Dr. Katie Chretien (PCA Plano) and Donna Gilson (PCA North) - two incredible women who love the Lord, love teaching children, and love the PCA community!
For our first "Journey" we want to introduce all of our parents in the PCA System of Schools - PCA Plano, PCA North, STCA and TKA - to Dr. Mike Goddard, Superintendent of the PCA System of Schools.