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The Christian Education Café

The Christian Education Café

Written by: Dr. Althea Penn
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About this listen

 Grab your favorite beverage and join us the 4th Monday of the month at 7 pm for the Christian Education Café podcast. We are equipping Christian educators and leaders with Biblical principles and research proven practices that enable your students to reach their full potential. Dr. Penn enjoys sharing resources that support spiritual formation, faith development, and professional growth. ...grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 The postings on this site are my own and do not necessarily reflect the views of ACSI. Michael Penn, ProducerCopyright 2024 All rights reserved. Christianity Ministry & Evangelism Spirituality
Episodes
  • Episode 29 Grateful for God's Sovereignty: Providence, Thanksgiving, and Christmas

    Episode 29 Grateful for God's Sovereignty: Providence, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
    Nov 27 2025

    Join us for a special holiday episode as we pause to reflect on the core theological truth that anchors all Christian education: God's sovereignty and providence.

    As we move from the harvest season of Thanksgiving and approach the Advent of Christmas, it's easy to get caught up in the traditions and the rush. But what does it mean to be truly grateful for the active, ruling hand of God—not just in the grand arc of history, but in the details of our daily lives, our schools, and our families?

    This episode explores how recognizing God’s perfect control and loving provision (providence) transforms our perspective on:

    • Thanksgiving: Shifting our focus from general blessing to specific, purposeful gratitude rooted in His plan.

    • The Classroom: How the doctrine of sovereignty informs a teacher's approach to curriculum, discipline, and nurturing a student's calling.

    • Christmas: Understanding the Incarnation not as a simple historical event, but as the ultimate, sovereign act of God's redemptive providence.

    Tune in to discover how meditating on God's sovereignty provides unshakable peace, models authentic faith for our students, and deepens the joy of the holiday season.

    Keywords: God's Sovereignty, Providence, Christian Education, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Gratitude, Theology, Christian School Leadership.
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    20 mins
  • Episode 28: Promoting Mental Health with Dr. Penn

    Episode 28: Promoting Mental Health with Dr. Penn
    Aug 4 2025
    As we step into a new school year, the challenges facing our students, families, and educators are greater than ever. In this special episode of Christian Education Cafe, we dive into the vital intersection of faith, education, and mental health. We'll explore the staggering mental health statistics for children, teens, and adults in the U.S. and discuss how a Christ-centered approach can be our compass. Join us as we discuss:* The Stark Reality: We share sobering data, including a federal survey that found nearly 1 in 5 (18%) youth ages 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode in the past year, and the fact that over 1 in 5 U.S. adults (59.3 million people) live with a mental illness.* A Biblical Framework for Learning: We'll unpack the concept of "Renewing the Mind" and how it applies to our educational journey. We'll introduce a Christian-based approach to the "Power of 4" engagement principles, focusing on physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being to foster a holistic and God-honoring school year. * The Power of Scripture: We'll ground our conversation in the truth of God's Word, reflecting on passages that remind us of His provision and peace. Our guiding scripture for this episode is Romans 12:2 (NIV): "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." This episode is a call to action for Christian educators, parents, and students to approach the school year not with anxiety, but with the transforming power of a renewed mind. It's a reminder that true learning is not just about what we know, but about who we are becoming in Christ.
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    17 mins
  • Episode 27: Study Habits That Lead to Good Success - A Conversation with Michael Penn

    Episode 27: Study Habits That Lead to Good Success - A Conversation with Michael Penn
    Apr 29 2025
    Its testing time and students are concerned with college and career readiness like never before. In a time where reports highlight academic challenges facing many young people, Michael's journey is a powerful testament to diligence and perseverance. Graduating high school with an Associate's Degree after starting college at just 12, and now completing a Bachelor's in Business Administration while actively serving others, Michael shares invaluable insights for students, parents, and educators navigating today's educational landscape.

    Inspired by Joshua 1:8-9, this episode delves into the "Study Habits That Lead to Good Success." Having a dedicated time and space is only the beginning, we offer practical wisdom on focus, discipline, time management, and the pivotal role of faith in achieving "good success."

    Join us for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable strategies to help learners thrive academically and develop a heart for service!
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    26 mins
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