191: The Heart of Care: Faith, Community, and Technology in Modern Ministry with Dr. Jedd Medefind

Episode Summary

In this episode of Key Ministry: The Podcast, host Dr. Steve Grcevich welcomes Dr. Jedd Medefind, long-time President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO). Jedd reflects on his journey from public policy in the White House to leading a nationwide coalition of over 300 organizations dedicated to serving vulnerable children and families. Together, they explore the core principles of building collaborative movements, the role of local churches, and the intersection of faith, technology, and mental well-being.

Key Topics Covered

• From Public Policy to Orphan Care: Jedd shares his transitional journey from working in the White House Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives to providing full-time leadership for CAFO.
• Building a Collaborative Movement: How dozens of competing organizations learned to "leave logos and egos at the door" to unite around shared core commitments for greater impact.
• The Role of the Local Church: Why local congregations—not just individuals or programs—are the essential environment for supporting foster and adoptive families.
• A Theology of Suffering: Understanding why walking alongside hurting children requires embracing complexity, pain, and long-term perseverance.
• Technology, Neuroscience, and Relationships: Jedd discusses his latest book on how technology impacts human flourish, mental health, relationships, and spiritual formation.

Featured Guests & Leaders Mentioned

• Dr. Jedd Medefind: President of the Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO), author, and former White House official.
• Beth & Todd Guckenberger: Co-founders of Back2Back Ministries and long-time CAFO leaders.
• Jason Johnson: Director of Church Ministry Initiatives at CAFO.

Resource Links & References

• Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO)
• Key Ministry Resources
• DATC Tour Stops