Are You Overthinking God’s Plan for Your Life?
How to Lead as a Family in Ministry
The Kennealys’ Story of Trust, Obedience, and Leading Together
In the whirlwind of ministry life, it’s easy to assume that calling is an individual thing—that God speaks to one, and the rest simply follow. But what happens when calling becomes a family affair? For the Kennealy family, ministry wasn’t something that happened in isolation. It was a shared journey of listening, surrendering, and walking in obedience—together.
When Ministry Becomes a Family Assignment
What started as a stirring in one heart quickly became a calling for all. The Kennealys didn’t pursue ministry independently—they walked it out in unity. The moment they felt the call to step deeper into ministry leadership, it was clear: this wasn’t just one person’s “yes.” It was a collective surrender.
There was no perfect roadmap. Just prayer, open hands, and a deep trust that God would lead the way—even when the next steps weren’t clear. In their words, it was “a total faith walk,” often requiring them to move before the details made sense. But God always provided clarity after the obedience.
“It’s not about waiting for a job description; it’s about responding to His invitation.”
Leading in Sync Without Losing Identity
In ministry, couples often serve side-by-side, but not always on the same page. The Kennealys flipped that script. Their partnership wasn’t just about logistics—it was deeply spiritual. They committed to checking in with each other regularly, asking: Are we aligned? Are we both thriving? Are we still called to this together?
That intentionality built resilience. It also protected them from burnout or imbalance. They discovered that it’s possible to share ministry responsibilities without either spouse being lost in the shuffle. Instead of ministry pulling them apart, it actually became a source of unity.
“We check in with each other often—not just about logistics, but about calling.”
When Kids Are Part of the Calling Too
For many ministry leaders, there’s tension around how to protect their kids from the weight of serving. But the Kennealys leaned into a different approach: bringing their kids into the calling.
Their children serve on the worship team, run lights, and engage in the rhythms of ministry—not out of pressure, but invitation. Ministry has become a family culture, not a Sunday obligation.
They’re not just raising worship leaders—they’re raising worshipers.
“It’s about creating a culture where our kids feel like they’re a part of something eternal.”
Making Room for God to Move
Some of the most powerful moments came when they had to release control. Whether it was taking a new role without knowing the outcome or relocating for a new opportunity, the Kennealys continually modeled what it means to step forward in faith.
Each decision was anchored in prayer, not preference. And every leap brought unexpected favor—not just in ministry growth, but in personal growth as well.
“God meets us on the other side of obedience—every time.”
Advice for Families in Ministry
If you're serving in ministry as a couple—or navigating how to invite your family into it—the Kennealys offer this advice:
- Prioritize unity over perfection. You won’t always have it figured out, but stay connected.
- Keep the conversation going. Don’t assume the other person is still called—ask.
- Involve your kids early. Don’t wait until they’re old enough to lead; invite them to observe, pray, and participate.
- Say yes to God, even when the path isn’t clear. He’s faithful to lead step by step.
Ministry Doesn’t Have to Divide Your Family
The Kennealys’ story is proof that ministry doesn’t have to come at the cost of your family. In fact, it can be one of the most beautiful ways to grow together. When a family says yes to God, collectively and courageously, the ripple effect goes far beyond the church stage—it transforms the home, the kids, and the community.
“Ministry didn’t pull us apart. It brought us closer to each other and to God.”
Get to know the Kennealy's
Josiah and Micah Kennealy are the founders of the nonprofit youngadutlstoday. Together they co-host the youngadults.today podcast designed for equipping individuals who are leading and volunteering with young adult ministries, college campuses and churches. They also host the F.Y.I. podcast designed to answer the questions young adults are asking, while pointing them to the Word of God and heart of Christ.
The Kennealy’s have a passion to see young adults reconciled to Christ and live a life honoring and pleasing to Him. They also have a huge heart to equip, empower and encourage young adult ministry leaders. They develop resources , organize rallying points and create opportunities for people to connect through relationships.
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