Who We Are

Joyful Kids began as children’s program directed by James and Elizabeth Bonjour, a brother and sister team that have served together running dozens of children’s programs over the years.

James a skilled storyteller, is the writer and producer of Pirates of the Cranium; bringing the timeless lessons and fun provided by Joyful Kids Ministries through the years into your homes. James can be heard in the new audio as Bart the Pirate, Slippy the Seal, and Philip.

During Joyful Kids onsite programs James leads the team, tells stories and directs skits making them applicable and personal for the children. He is also a humorous ventriloquist having a love for puppets his whole life. Ralf the dog, and Slippy the seal will have even the most unenthusiastic participants enjoying themselves. James has his B.A. in Communications from Thomas Edison State College.

The face of Joyful Kids is changing.

Elizabeth Bonjour has been James’ assistant from the very start, writing curriculum, designing crafts, leading songs, teaching Scripture memory, tech support, discipling, teaching and equipping the volunteers, and numerous other invaluable services. Elizabeth, now happily married, leaves some pretty big shoes to fill. Elizabeth and her new husband, Jonathan, are featured as two of the main characters: Wendy and Billy, on the new Pirates of the Cranium audio adventure. Joyful Kids will always be grateful for her tireless service to the children and teachers. Only the Lord can know the impact she has had on so many lives..

Frances Bonjour works diligently behind the scenes to keep Joyful Kids, and James, organized! Frances supplies the artwork for the Joyful Kids Activity Books as well as providing piano accompaniment for the song time. Having worked with children’s small groups for 6 years she proves to be a great resource to our new teachers. Frances also played a pivotal role in script editing for Pirates of the Cranium and played the part of Ms. Ivy in No Greater Love.

Nicole Stark has worked with us for 3 years in several different capacities, and now leads the singing and scripture memory. She’s also in charge of making sure our actors look the part as they prepare for our fun filled skits. Quite dramatic herself, Nicole often plays a feature role in our story time and can be heard on our new audio drama, Pirates of the Cranium, as Cate the Pirate.

Our dedicated volunteers are also joyfully serving on the front lines of the ministry, whether cutting out crafts, acting in skits, or teaching and sharing personal examples on the team stations. Without these wonderful young people Joyful Kids would not be possible.

What Are Others Saying about Joyful Kids?

“James and Elizabeth Bonjour have led children’s programming for multiple events at the Character Inn for the last three years. They have organized programs for up to 150 children at a time. They are outstanding Christian young people with a heart for God and for families. They have taught, recruited, organized, and inspired a team of young people to serve with them over and over again. Joyful Kids has been a happy, healthy ministry here. The Bonjours have demonstrated outstanding flexibility and spirit over and over again. I thank God for them.”

Ken Pierpont, Director
Riverfront Character Inn and International Convention Center
A Ministry of the Institute in Basic Life Principles

“Joyful Kids ministries is a wonderful ministry in which children learn about character, Christ, and trusting in God. When both our sons were students in the program, they couldn’t wait for each session to begin because they had such a great time. Joyful Kids has provided an opportunity for our children to develop character and to fellowship with Christ-minded people, both as students and for our older son, now as a leader.

“In leadership, our son has built valuable relationships, developed leadership skills, and has been trained in how to most effectively teach children valuable principles of scripture.

“Joyful Kids Ministries has been a tremendous blessing for our family –one that will stay with us for a lifetime.”

Mrs. Diane Bowen
Chesaning, Michigan

“Dear Joyful Kids Ministries,

“Just a note to let you know how absolutely delighted we have been with your children’s program at our homeschool family camp. The kids were captivated by your creativity and we still hear from parents whose children are in love with ‘Mr. James’ and ‘Miss Elizabeth’ long after camp is over! They still sing the songs and recall the wonderful stories… and they look forward to seeing you at camp again.

Your flexibility in working with us, as well as your servants’ hearts, the discipline and camaraderie of your team… this all added up to a smoothly running children’s ministry that I know blessed all the parents at camp. They could relax and enjoy their own programs knowing their children were in good hands.

I want to say I would highly recommend the Joyful Kids team to any church or organization planning a children’s gathering. You are a one-of-a-kind ministry and we really appreciate you!”

Sincerely,
Heather Idoni
FIRE Homeschool Camps