FAQs — Moms' Ministry

How did the ministry of Entrusted with a Child's Heart begin?

Dave and Betsy Corning are founding members of Harvest Bible Chapel, near Chicago, IL. From the beginning, they developed a heart for hurting families. As they counseled couples, they noticed a common theme: parents trying to raise their children in "their own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5-6) apart from an understanding of God's Word. "How could we intervene on behalf of families providing God's clear instruction for family life?" The recurrent question eventually became a fervent prayer.

When Harvest began a Moms' Ministry in 1999, and Betsy was asked to teach the class, the Lord had already confirmed the calling to her. Betsy searched the Scriptures, organizing key biblical principles that would apply to each family each week regardless of the ages of children or spiritual background of the parents. Drawing from her more than 30 years as a wife and mother, Betsy developed a curriculum in which every day life meets the immutable, inerrant, inspiring Word of God. Entrusted with a Child's Heart applies biblical truth to practical examples so that each family is able to discover the wonderful ways in which God works.       

Every year, more and more women signed up for the Entrusted class and word began to spread beyond the walls of Harvest. Soon, inquiries were flooding in as to how this program could be used in other churches. In 2004, Betsy's teaching was recorded on DVD. Since then, this curriculum has been taught to thousands of women across the country and around the world.


How many weeks does the ministry run?

There are 22 teaching DVDs which fit best into a ministry year of approximately 24 to 26 weeks. We recommend that the ministry runs during the school year, from September to April. The additional weeks during these months allow time for extra small group days, Christmas events, and end-of-the-year celebrations. The ministry year scheduling is one of the topics covered in our Leadership Training Manual.


Can I start the curriculum mid-year?

Although it is possible to start the curriculum mid-year, it would be difficult and not recommended. Due to the length of the curriculum, fitting it into the school year works most effectively. If started mid-year, you would need to continue through the summer – which is usually a difficult time of year for people to remain consistent.


How much does the curriculum cost?

Please refer to the curriculum products on our website to see all of the available resources along with current price information.


Can I do this as a neighborhood Bible Study?

Yes! Many women have done this study as a neighborhood outreach. Most moms want to learn the principles of effective parenting, even if they are unfamiliar with Scripture. Please remember that this study is centered on the Word of God, and participants need to be willing to hear what the Bible says and apply it.


Is this study appropriate for my unsaved friends?

Yes! The gospel message is clearly shared in Lesson One. The foundation of building a strong family begins with faith. During the year we build upon that foundation so that we are all working from the same starting point. Every year we hear testimonies of women who have come to faith in Jesus Christ through this Bible study.


What does a typical Entrusted ministry day look like?

The actual ministry day can be adjusted to fit within a 1½ to 2½ hour time frame. You can format your schedule depending on the amount of time you have available. We have offered groups in both the morning and evening. If you offer a morning ministry, keep in mind that you will also need to provide a quality children's program. Here is a sample schedule that can be adjusted to fit your ministry:

• Opening Time (Welcome and Announcements) - 10 minutes
• Worship time (optional) – 30 minutes
• DVD teaching – 1 hour
• Transition to small groups - 5 minutes
• Small Group time (Scripture memory, accountability, discussion, and prayer time) – 45 minutes

I’m interested in this study. What would my next step be?

Please refer to Implement this Study.


How many people do I need to get started?

If you plan on using this in a small neighborhood group that meets in the home, you can lead this on your own (although it’s nice to have a friend to help).

If you are starting this as a ministry within your church, depending upon the size of your ministry, it’s very helpful to have a ministry partner. In addition to helping with the oversight of the ministry, this woman may also serve as a Small Group Leader. You will need to have a Small Group Leader for every six to eight ladies. It is also advised that each Small Group Leader have an apprentice partner who can fill in if they are unable to be there.

Another key component will be a children's ministry team. These details are all covered in the "Leadership Training Manual" which is included with the purchase of the DVD set. If you wish to purchase the Leadership Training Manual on its own, you may do so.


What is the purpose of the Leadership Training Manual?

Our purpose is to give you a deeper understanding of the ministry and to instill a passion to serve families. We want your ministry to have the greatest impact possible, so we try to include all the details you’ll need to ensure that you are fully prepared. Our Leadership Training Manual will give you an excitement for your fall start-up and will help you think through and plan out all the details for beginning this ministry.


Can this study be done as couples?

The DVD study is designed for women’s groups. However, if you are looking for a resource for men or for couples to study, please check out our Entrusted with a Child’s Heart book format which can be done by individuals, couples, or small groups.


What ages are covered in this curriculum?

This curriculum is unique in the fact that it applies to moms of all ages with children of all ages. It is based on biblical principles which cover the full-range of parenting from infancy to college age.


Can I purchase the lessons on CD instead of DVD?

If you are doing this study on your own, the audio CDs provide a cost-effective option. Many women choose the CDs to provide a way for their husbands to hear the material outside of class.

If you are implementing this ministry as a “class”, we recommend the DVDs. Your ministry may choose to purchase CDs in addition to the DVDs to be used as part of a “lending library”.


Why are there 22 DVDs and only 20 audio CDs?

Both series include Lessons 1-19 plus the “Read through the Bible Challenge”. The DVD set includes two additional DVDs which contain more visual images which audio alone cannot capture. These additional DVDs are the “Introduction” and the “Tips Day” lessons which are incorporated into the class setting.


What is your ministry’s doctrinal statement of faith?

Please refer to “Doctrine of Faith” if you wish to view our doctrinal statement which is identical to our home church, Harvest Bible Chapel, Rolling Meadows, Elgin, Niles, and Crystal Lake, IL.


Can I do this study on my own or with my husband?

Absolutely! It is always great when husbands and wives are on the same page in their parenting. As a matter of fact, the number one question we receive is, "How can my husband hear this material?" These lessons are available for purchase on either CD or DVD and would be great to do as a couple. Husbands need to understand that Betsy wrote the moms' workbooks for women, and that she is teaching women.

There is also a book version of Entrusted with a Child’s Heart available which was designed specifically for use in families, men’s, or couples’ small groups. This is also a great option for individual study when joining or implementing a moms’ group is not an option.


How much homework is involved?

Each lesson is completed during the weekly teaching time. That means that weekly preparation is minimal. However, there are two critical homework requirements for moms each week:

• Scripture Memory Program (learning 1-2 verses per week)
• Application of the material, especially by working through the “Homefront Applications” with their husbands.

Can I see a sample of your materials?

Yes. They are available on our Entrusted with a Child’s Heart implement this study page..