When I stepped into the role of children’s pastor at Calvary Christian Church (Assemblies of God) near Boston six years ago, I did not realize how multicultural this ministry would become.

Today, with people from more than 40 nations in the congregation, children might hear songs and conversations in a number of different languages each week.

During potluck meals, kids can sample foods like Filipino lumpia, West African jollof rice, and South African empanadas.

The congregation supports more than 600 missionaries and organizations around the world. Not only do they give generously, but our people carry the heart of Christ for the nations.

That heart extends to children’s ministry as well. Rather than simply ministering to children who happen to be multicultural, we celebrate multiculturalism as part of God’s creative and redemptive plan.

America’s demographics are changing, and younger generations are the most diverse on record. Racial or ethnic minorities comprise nearly half of Generation Z, according to Pew Research Center.

Pew projects that by 2050, no single racial or ethnic group will make up a majority of the U.S. population.

As children’s ministers, it is imperative that we learn to lead multicultural ministries.

Biblical Vision

A multicultural vision is rooted in Scripture. From the beginning, God’s plan was to bless “all peoples on earth” (Genesis 12:3).

In Matthew 28:19–20, Jesus told His followers, “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Making disciples of all nations is the Church’s mandate.

Revelation 7:9 reveals the diverse nature of heaven itself, as John sees “a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.”

The kingdom of God is not homogenous. It is a mosaic of peoples. Children’s leaders have the privilege and responsibility of reflecting that Kingdom reality in our ministries.

When children see pastors, volunteers, and peers who look like them, speak their language, or share their culture, they feel a sense of belonging. And when they meet people who are different from them, they grow up with a bigger vision of God’s love and mission. Multicultural ministry should pursue both outcomes.

Ministry Challenges

Ministering to kids and families from diverse backgrounds is not without challenges.

Many issues arise from a simple lack of awareness. Language barriers and cultural differences can quickly lead to miscommunication and frustration. A willingness to learn is essential for leaders.

Representation is another hurdle. When illustrations, teaching methods, and leadership do not reflect the group’s diversity, some children may feel invisible.

As kids learn God loves every nation, they are also realizing He loves them. And when 
they worship with 
a diverse group 
of believers, they
catch a glimpse 
of eternity.

Differing views on discipline and authority can create tension as well. Some cultures expect children to be quiet and deferential, while others encourage open expression. When volunteers assume their way is the only way, misunderstandings arise.

Generational gaps require sensitivity. Children often adapt quickly to American culture, even as their parents hold tightly to tradition. This leaves many kids feeling caught between two worlds.

Unconscious bias is another challenge. Well-meaning leaders may gravitate toward children who look or sound familiar, unintentionally leaving others feeling overlooked.

Finally, socioeconomic differences affect engagement. Some families cannot afford special programs and events requiring a financial commitment. Leaders must be careful not to exclude those with fewer resources.

These challenges should not discourage children’s leaders. Instead, they remind us that multicultural ministry requires humility, patience, and intentionality.

Diverse Discipleship

Successful multicultural ministry does not happen overnight. It is a process of learning, growing, and taking practical steps toward inclusivity.

Start by identifying one way to highlight God’s heart for all people. Teach children a song in another language, invite a missionary guest to talk about his or her experiences, or celebrate a cultural holiday together. Over time, small gestures set the stage for deeper transformation.

At Calvary Christian Church, we lean into multiculturalism as part of discipleship. Our summer potluck is one example. Families bring dishes representing their cultural or ethnic backgrounds. Children enjoy sharing their heritage with others and tasting new foods.

During Missions Month, kids make crafts representing various nations, and families wear traditional clothing from around the world.

These practices teach children that the Church comprises all kinds of people, and differences are something to celebrate rather than hide.

An annual flag parade is a highlight for our congregation. I arrive early to watch the children rushing to pick up flags corresponding to their nations. As families march around the sanctuary, waving the flags of dozens of countries, I can’t help but think of Revelation 7:9.

When missionaries visit our church, we invite them to share firsthand stories with the children. This makes space for multiculturism to flourish and spread.

Our children’s volunteer team includes leaders from Latin America, Indonesia, Africa, India, and Greece. Kids learn from role models who look like them and leaders who differ from them. Both kinds of interaction are important.

When children consistently encounter diversity in leadership, they understand that the family of God is wide and welcoming.

I encourage volunteers to ask questions, listen well, and resist assumptions. I also remind them often that children have different backgrounds, cultures, and personalities. Methods that prove effective with one child may not work with another.

Language matters, so I choose my words carefully. I frequently use terms like international, global, multicultural, multiethnic, and diverse. This reminds children diversity is part of God’s design.

Multicultural ministry is not the ultimate goal. Our calling is to make disciples of all nations. Each event, song, and activity should point children to Jesus.

As kids learn God loves every nation, they are also realizing He loves them. And when they worship with a diverse group of believers, they catch a glimpse of eternity.

Every Nation

Multicultural ministry magnifies the gospel when it keeps Jesus at the center. It’s not about flashy programs, but consistent, intentional efforts to reach the nations God is bringing to our doorstep.

It starts with teaching children to view differences as beautiful, equipping volunteers to serve everyone, and creating an environment where each family feels welcome and valued.

Audit your congregation to determine how many nations are represented. Then find ways to highlight these cultures creatively.

Invite members to share their stories. Weave missionary testimonies into children’s services. Plan an event that brings people together and celebrates diversity. A simple meal with international dishes can start conversations and create lasting memories.

Leading a multicultural children’s ministry isn’t always easy, but it is worth the effort. It reflects God’s heart and redemptive vision.

One day, when the children from your ministry stand before God’s throne alongside people from every nation, tribe, people, and language, perhaps they will say, “This reminds me of kids’ church.”

This article appears in the Fall 2025 issue of Influence magazine.