The Canadian Church Leader's Podcast is designed to help Canadian church leaders reach people. Hosted by Carey Nieuwhof, the podcast is by Canadians, for Canadians, focused on ministry in the post-modern, post-Christian nation of Canada. (But naturally, because we're Canadians, anyone can listen.)
In a time when Christian sexual ethics are increasingly seen not just as outdated but as morally offensive, how can pastors lead with both clarity and compassion? In this conversation, author and apologist Rebecca McLaughlin engages with questions around Christian sexual ethics and makes a case for why the Christian story is ultimately good news for everyone. Rebecca reflects on how the cultural conversation surrounding Christian apologetics has shifted over the last two decades, from intellectual skepticism to moral resistance and she explores how the Church can respond to increasing secularism without losing its moral conviction or its tenderness.Rebecca explores key challenges and opportunities facing pastors today including: Articulating historic Christian beliefs on sexuality and gender in ways that draw people toward Jesus with both conviction and compassion,Reframing singleness as a vital, gospel-shaped calling, not a transitional or secondary state,Recovering a vision of Christian marriage and singleness as signposts pointing to Christ and His love for the Church,Recognizing that today's cultural objections often reveal a deeper hunger for love, identity, and belonging that only the gospel can satisfy.Rebecca is bold and gracious, bringing sharp cultural insight, theological depth, and a pastoral sensitivity to the conversation. You'll be encouraged to lead with both truth and tenderness, and to see even the hardest conversations as opportunities to point people to Jesus.Show Notes: Rebecca's Website and BooksThe Pastorate Podcast Listener SurveyFall 2025 Pastors Retreat at Barnabas LandingThe Pastorate CareersPartners: Contact John Wright at Generis for help cultivating a culture of generosity in your church.We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.
In this episode, Jason sits down with long-time pastor, professor, and marketplace theologian R. Paul Stevens to explore the sacredness of daily work. Paul's ministry journey spans decades, from student ministry in Halifax to pastoring in Vancouver, teaching at Regent College, and even a mid-career stint as a carpenter. Paul unpacks the heartbeat behind his conviction that every follower of Jesus is in full-time ministry and that whatever your vocation, be it a pastor, a police officer, or a mother, your work matters to God. In this conversation Paul shares about: How Ephesians 4 set helped him come to realize that all Christians are in “full-time ministry,” The danger of dualism among our congregations and the importance of reclaiming whole-life, integrated discipleship,How pastors can empower their congregations for Monday-to-Saturday faithfulness, A story of meeting a young seeker on public transit and the unfolding of their year-long discipleship journey.Paul is thoughtful and intentional, bringing over 50 years of ministry experience and theological rigor to the conversation. In this episode Paul will remind you that pastoral leadership isn't confined to a platform or pulpit, and you'll be inspired by stories of a seasoned pastor living out the Gospel in his ordinary, everyday moments. Show Notes: Fall 2025 Pastors Retreat at Barnabas LandingPaul's WebsiteInstitute for Marketplace TransformationPartners: We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Learn more about the Canadian Bible Society's "Bible Course."
In this episode, Jason sits down with Dustin Funk, Lead Pastor of Oasis Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dustin shares his journey from encountering God at summer camp as a teenager, to stepping into leadership at a small Italian-speaking church, to guiding that same church through a remarkable season of cultural transition and growth. Dustin reflects on the lessons he's learned over 27 years in pastoral ministry, how to lead through change, how to apologize well, and how to stay grounded in the faithful work of local church leadership. He talks candidly about what it was like to preach through an interpreter in an ethnic church context, how his church embraced a portable season before building a permanent home, and how he has come to embrace annual rhythms of rest. In this conversation Dustin shares about: How a camp experience shaped Dustin's call to ministry,Preaching in a language he didn't speak,The transformation of Oasis Church from an ethnic congregation to a multi-generational community,The highs and lows of 12 years as a portable church,Why he takes a study break every year,How the gospel offers something the world is hungry for.Show NotesOasis Church – Winnipeg, MBLearn more about Baptize Canada.
In today's conversation Preston Pouteaux shares what it means to be a tenderhearted pastor in a fast-paced world. Speaking from Chestermere, Alberta, Preston invites us into a vision of pastoring that's slow, rooted, and profoundly local. From RCMP ride-alongs to keeping bees and loving neighbours, Preston offers a poetic yet practical vision of what it means to love and serve a place and its people. In this conversation Preston shares about: How pastoral imagination is formed,How curiosity and inquiry is a needed pastoral posture, Riding along with RCMP officers at night as a Chaplain,Beekeeping and the theology of pollinators, and Why presence, more than expertise, is a pastor's most powerful gift.This episode is for any pastor who is seeking to better understand their context and to serve their people well. You'll be reminded that gentleness is not weakness, and that being embedded in your local community might be the most courageous thing you can do.Show NotesPreston's Book: The Bees of Rainbow Falls: Finding Faith, Imagination, and Delight in Your Neighbourhood Lake Ridge Community Church PartnersContact John Wright at Generis – for help cultivating a culture of generosity in your church.We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.
What does it look like to stay tender and human as a pastor, even while holding the weight of others' pain? In this rich and deeply practical conversation, Steve Cuss shares wisdom from decades of ministry—including his years as a hospital chaplain, a lead pastor, and now, a trusted voice equipping leaders around the world in managing leadership anxiety.Steve reflects on transitioning out of senior leadership, the gift of simply being a congregant, and how to stay present in rooms thick with grief and unspoken pressure. With vulnerability and humour, he unpacks how pastors can become aware of their own coping mechanisms, grow in emotional health, and shift from reacting to reflecting.Whether you're navigating your own expectations, dealing with system-wide stress, or walking with people through deep loss, this conversation is packed with soul-forming insight.In today's episode:Lessons from chaplaincy on presence, restraint, and incarnational ministryHow anxiety circulates in church systems (and how to disrupt it with calm leadership)The “expectation gap” in our relationship with God and how to close itBiographySteve Cuss is a leadership coach, speaker, and former hospital chaplain and pastor who helps leaders grow in emotional and spiritual health. With years of experience in Family Systems Theory, chaplaincy, and church leadership, Steve equips others to manage anxiety, stay grounded under pressure, and lead with greater presence. He's the author of Managing Leadership Anxiety and The Expectation Gap, and the founder of Capable Life—a practical resource that's helped thousands of leaders around the world break free from stuck patterns and lead with clarity, peace, and purpose.PartnersWe couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course.Guest NotesSteve's Website https://www.stevecusswords.com/The Expectation Gap https://www.amazon.ca/Expectation-Gap-between-Beliefs-Experience/dp/0310156378Managing Leadership Anxiety https://www.amazon.ca/Managing-Leadership-Anxiety-Yours-Theirs/dp/1400210887Capable Life https://capablelife.com/Show NotesWebsiteBlog and Episode Write UpYoutubeInstagram
In this special episode of The Pastorate Podcast, we're doing something a little different. Rather than one long-form conversation, you'll hear stories from three Canadian lead pastors. Representing the suburbs of BC, the heart of Quebec, and a small coastal town on the Pacific Ocean, these pastors—Joe Jung, Ben Carbone, and Jaz Ghag—open up about calling, family, leadership, and the unique challenges of ministry in their contexts. Each story offers encouragement for pastors navigating their own ministry in a Canadian context.This episode serves as a reminder that you're not alone in this work. God is moving across Canada and here is a glimpse into what he is doing. In this episode:Joe Jung on vocational shift, obedience to God's call, and pastoring alongside his familyBen Carbone on succession, the danger of comparison, and loving the people before the visionJaz Ghag on coming to faith from a Sikh background and the cost of following JesusGuest NotesJoe Jung (Town & Field, Langley) Ben Carbone (MCI Church, Montreal) Jaz Ghag (Christian Life Assembly, Gibsons)Show NotesLearn more about The PastorateJoin our Giving Community, The SeedContact Jon Wright at Generis – for help cultivating a culture of generosityYoutubeInstagramJoin the ConversationIf today's episode encouraged you, send it to a fellow pastor or ministry leader. And don't forget to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.Want to share your story or connect with our team? Reach out here.
In this episode, Jason sits down with Reward Sibanda, a pastor, speaker, and writer, a leading voice on fasting and a Pastor at Saddleback Church. Reward is known for his contagious joy, his deep love for the church, and his ability to bridge cultural gaps in ministry.In this conversation, Jason and Reward explore:How different cultural perspectives shape our understanding of church, community, and discipleship.The tension around megachurches and why large-scale ministry can still be redeemed for kingdom expansion.The recent Return Gathering at Saddleback and signs of revival across the global church.The spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits of fasting—and why this ancient discipline is crucial for leaders today.No matter your context, our hope is you would be strengthened and encouraged by this conversation today.BiographyReward Sibanda is a dynamic speaker, writer, pastor at Saddleback Church, and the Senior Director of National Church Engagement at World Vision, the world's largest Christian humanitarian organization. Renowned for his unique perspective and transformative insights that challenge conventional thinking, Reward thrives on empowering and challenging people from all walks of life to transcend limitations and pursue God's best for them. His ministry inspires many, and his book, How to Fast, offers a powerful guide to rejuvenation. Reward resides in California with his wife Pam and son Silo.We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Applications close on April 1st!Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course.Guest NotesReward's WebsiteSaddleback ChurchHow To Fast—Reward's New BookReward's InstagramShow NotesWebsiteBlog and Episode Write UpYoutubeInstagram
In this episode of The Pastorate, Jason sits down with Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author of The Familiar Stranger, to explore how God works in seasons of suffering and renewal. Tyler shares candidly on how deep pain has shaped his understanding of faith, ministry, and the presence of God in everyday life.Tyler is known for his deep love of prayer, his thoughtful teaching, and his passion for seeing people encounter the living God. In this conversation Tyler and Jason cover these themes, Tyler's experiences of walking through suffering—both in his family and his own health—and how those experiences have shaped his faith and ministry. Inviting others into the story of God in preaching in order to provide them a context for their pain.Cultivating a deeper desire to encounter the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit every day.Tyler's new book, The Familiar Stranger.No matter where you are or what season you're walking through, our prayer is that this conversation would strengthen your heart and your hands, and that you'd experience a renewed sense of the Father's desire and ability to redeem your pain.BiographyTyler Staton is the Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland, Oregon, where he lives with his wife Kirsten, and their sons Hank, Simon, and Amos. He is passionate about living prayerfully and relationally. Tyler is the author of three books: Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools, Searching for Enough, and The Familiar Stranger.We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Thanks to Generis for supporting this episode. Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here.Guest NotesTyler's Website https://www.tylerstaton.com/The Familiar Stranger https://www.amazon.ca/Familiar-Stranger-Introducing-Experiential-Spirituality/dp/1400247705Bridgetown Church https://bridgetown.church/24-7 Prayer USA https://www.24-7prayerusa.com/Show NotesWebsiteBlog and Episode Write UpYoutubeInstagram
Pastoring in rural Canada comes with unique challenges and opportunities—navigating leadership transitions, bilingual ministry, and the call to raise up the next generation of leaders. That's why we need pastors who commit to remaining faithful over decades, seeking God's guidance through seasons of change.In this episode we're joined by Claude Lainey, lead pastor of Gospel Mission Church in Winkler, Manitoba, to hear his story of moving from Northern Ontario to Manitoba and the lessons he's learned along the way.In this conversation, Claude shares: How his journey into bilingual ministry shaped his leadership and heart for the Church. The challenges and rewards of pastoring in rural Canada. The role of humility and perseverance in navigating church transitions. Why mentorship and discipleship are more critical than ever for the next generation of pastors.For those leading in small towns or large cities alike, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder to stay faithful to God's calling—no matter where He leads.BiographyClaude Lainey has been the lead pastor of Gospel Mission Church in Winkler, Manitoba, since 2005. Originally from Northern Ontario, he grew up in French Canadian communities before moving to the Pembina Valley, where he quickly grew to love the people and the region. With a passion for discipleship and spiritual renewal, Claude is dedicated to helping others experience God in a real and personal way. His wife, Micheline, serves alongside him as the Pastor of Grow Kids Ministry, and together they are committed to equipping the church and investing in the next generation.We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake is happening now!Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Guest NotesGospel Mission ChurchShow NotesWebsiteBlog and Episode Write UpYoutubeInstagram
Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and for many, it's hard to make sense of it all—let alone carry the weight of shifting expectations and uncertainty. That's why we're grateful for voices like Mark's—leaders who cut through the noise with a prophetic edge, distill complex cultural trends, and speak to the Church with a non-anxious presence.Today, we're joined by Mark Sayers—pastor, author, and cultural commentator—known for his sharp insights into secularism, leadership, and the Church's evolving role in a rapidly changing world.In this conversation, Mark shares:The personal and pastoral challenges he has faced, including his wife Trudy's battle with cancer and how it has reshaped his leadership and faith.What it means to remain faithful over decades of ministry and how suffering forms resilience.Why secularism is weakening and the new spiritual openness emerging globally.The Church's role in navigating political, economic, and social shifts in the years ahead.Platforms to Pillars, Mark's upcoming book that explores the dangers of platform-driven leadership versus the biblical vision of being a ‘pillar' in the temple of God.For those leading in uncertain times, this episode offers wisdom, perspective, and encouragement to help you stay faithful and navigate what's ahead.BiographyMark is the senior leader of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. He is passionate about spiritual renewal and the future of the church. Mark is the author of a number of books including Strange Days and Reappearing Church. Mark lives in Melbourne with his wife, Trudi, his daughter, Grace, and twin boys, Hudson and Billy.Show NotesWe couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, andgive towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join ourEmerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon!Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course.Guest NotesRed ChurchRebuilders PodcastMark's WebsiteShow NotesWebsiteBlog and Episode Write UpYoutubeInstagram
Preaching with authenticity is no easy task, but for Megan, authenticity is the only gear she knows. The question remains—how do we craft honest sermons and let the message impact our own lives first? Megan is a pastor, speaker, and author joining us from Lakewood, California. She serves as the teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in Illinois and leads a women's Bible study at Arbor Road Church in Long Beach, California. Whether preaching, leading, or writing her latest book, Megan brings a refreshing honesty that resonates deeply and inspires many. In today's conversation, you'll hear about: - How joy, longing, and sorrow intertwine to deepen hope and trust in God - Two practical prayer rhythms Megan has developed to foster intimacy with Jesus - What it looks like to preach with integrity while wrestling with the reality of mixed motives - The heart behind her new book, Relaxed Megan is known for sharing with energy, joy, and sincerity—so we hope this conversation encourages you today. Biography Megan is determined to use her life to spread hope, share truth, and celebrate others. She is finishing her Doctorate of Ministry as she serves as a teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church and the Director of Women's Ministries at Hume Lake Christian Camps. She also shepherds women at Arbor Road Church in Long Beach, California. She invests her time in people, writing books and Bible studies, and exploring all over the globe, teaching and sharing the love of Jesus. She released the book and study guide Relaxed and Beautiful Word Bible study: John, authored the book and Bible study Meant for Good, SelfLess, and co-wrote the book 7 Family Ministry Essentials with Dr. Michelle Anthony. But what we love most about Megan is the way that she sees others. She has a keen ability to notice the people around her and to ask the kinds of questions that help her see them even more clearly. Megan lives in Lakewood, California with her two boys, Foster and Jedidiah. Sponsors We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to Generis for supporting this episode. Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Guest Notes - Website - Instagram - Relaxed Book Show Notes - Website - Blog and Episode Write Up - Youtube - Instagram
It's a New Year, and we're thrilled to welcome you back to The Pastorate. As we step into 2025, we're continuing our mission of creating meaningful conversations to equip and encourage pastors, starting with an episode we pray will strengthen both your hands and your heart for the work ahead. Our guest today is Andy Moore, Pastor of Coastline Church in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia. With years of ministry experience and a heartfelt dedication to developing leaders, Andy offers a perspective both profound and practical. This in-person conversation, recorded in Andy's home, is one we're excited to share with you. Andy shares about: How God brought redemption through seasons of deep pain, transforming his life and ministry Insights into the rich, 101-year history of Coastline Church and the privilege and challenge of leading in a context with such a legacy His passion for developing young pastors and the intentional steps he's taken to create an environment where emerging leaders thrive He also speaks profoundly about the generational nature of God's work, explaining how a long-term, big-picture vision for the Church sustains his faithfulness through challenging seasons. We're so grateful you've joined us for today's conversation. May it encourage and inspire you as you listen. Bio | Pastor Andy Moore is the Lead Pastor of Coastline Church in Victoria, BC. Coastline is a vibrant, multi-site church in the heart of Victoria with a 101 year history. Andy has been in ministry for over 30 years and has been pastoring at Coastline Church for 23 years. Andy and his wife Lisa share a journey of redemption, healing and vibrant new beginnings that shows the incredible hope and faithfulness of Jesus! They are passionate about training leaders and planting churches. Under their leadership, Coastline Church is a thriving movement with a rich history, a bright future and a vision to plant life-giving churches across Vancouver Island. They have a full life with four children, a son-in-law and one granddaughter. We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Guest Notes Coastline Church Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
As we close out 2024, we're excited to bring you a special episode to end the year. Last year, we began a tradition of hosting a conversation with Darrell Johnson near the end of each year, and it's quickly become a meaningful rhythm for this podcast—a chance to sit down and reflect on life and ministry. Darrell has been preaching, teaching, and pastoring for over 50 years, with a ministry journey that has taken him from the Philippines to the United States and, of course, here in Canada. He currently serves as part of the Teaching and Pastoral Team at The Way Church in Vancouver, BC, and is the author of several impactful books, including Discipleship on the Edge, Ephesians: The Wonder and Walk of Being Alive in Christ, and his latest release, That You May Live: How the 10 Commandments Lead to Human Freedom. For this conversation Jason had the opportunity to join Darrell in his study at home where Darrell spends time each morning in devotion and study. In this episode, Darrell shares about: Some of his morning rhythms, the practices that he's found that work in his life to create space for a life with God. Disciple-making in our modern context, including the value of one-on-one conversations and how he would anchor discipleship in teaching people how to read the Bible and pray. Reflections on his health journey over the past few months, candidly sharing about both challenges and God's faithfulness through it all. We're so grateful you've joined us for this conversation on The Pastorate. Our prayer is that this conversation encourages and equips you as you prepare to step into 2025. Biography Darrell Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His Gospel for over 50 years. He has served a number of Presbyterian congregations in California, Union Church of Manila in the Philippines, and the historic First Baptist Church in the heart of Vancouver, Canada. He has taught preaching for Fuller Theological Seminary, Carey Theological College in Vancouver, and Regent College in Vancouver. He has authored eight books, including The Glory of Preaching and Discipleship on the Edge: An Expository Journey Through Revelation. He is currently serving as Scholar-in-Residence for The Way Church and The Pastorate. He and his wife Sharon have been married 47 years. Together they have raised four children adopted from four different countries of the world, and now enjoy loving nine active grandchildren! Sponsors We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins in January! Guest Notes Darrell's website Notes on Psalms Instagram Discipleship on the Edge Ephesians: The Wonder and Walk of Being Alive in Christ That You May Live Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram
A question many of us face this time of year is how to guide our congregations well through the Advent season. In the midst of pastoring others, some of us have been able to enter into the wonder of the season ourselves, some of us are navigating the busyness of planning and executing events and services, and others of us are walking through a deeply painful season that can come with this time of year. Wherever you find yourself today, our prayer is that this time spent listening to this conversation will strengthen your hands, fill your heart with courage, and draw you deeper into the joys of this Advent season. Today, AJ Sherrill joins us from St. Peter's Church in Charleston, South Carolina. AJ has pastored in diverse contexts—from California to New York to Grand Rapids—before settling in Charleston with his family. He's also an accomplished author, and his latest book, Rediscovering Christmas, is a profound exploration of the Bible's Christmas story, helping us embrace the ancient wonder of the season. In this episode, AJ shares about: His new book, Rediscovering Christmas, and its surprising insights into the Bible's Christmas story. How to discover and develop your unique pastoral voice as a communicator. The importance of slowing down to truly pastor your congregation where they are. We're so grateful you've joined us for this conversation on The Pastorate. May God bless you as you listen and enter into the wonder of Advent. Biography AJ Sherrill has served as a lead pastor for over two decades in churches across the country, from Southern California to New York City, and now calls the Low Country home. He holds two master's degrees in theology and a doctorate in spiritual formation. AJ teaches courses on preaching and the Enneagram at Fuller Theological Seminary and leads workshops on spiritual formation and personality theory. Above all, he is a disciple of Jesus, husband to Elaina, and father to Eloise. On a lighter note, he is also a dedicated—though often humbled—Michigan fan. Sponsors We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Guest Notes AJ's Website Instagram Rediscovering Christmas Being With God: The Absurdity, Necessity and Neurology of Contemplative Prayer The Enneagram For Spiritual Formation: How Knowing Ourselves Can Make Us More Like Jesus Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram
Pastoring has always been a vocation of great responsibility, yet the expectations placed on pastors today have grown increasingly complex. From preaching and shepherding to being organizational leaders, cultural commentators, and trauma-informed counselors, the demands can stack up, making the work feel impossible. Add to this the challenge of navigating a rapidly changing cultural and technological landscape, and it's no wonder so many pastors wrestle with questions of calling, capacity, and resilience. But amidst these challenges the ancient wisdom of the church and the gift of pastoral community offer a way forward. In this episode of The Pastorate, we sit down with Glenn Packiam, Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California, to explore the depth and complexity of pastoral ministry in today's world. Glenn brings his unique perspective as a pastor, offering insights on how to remain grounded in the midst of ministry's ever-growing demands. Drawing from both his own experiences, Glenn unpacks practical strategies for navigating the weight of expectations placed on pastors, cultivating resilience through ancient spiritual practices, and fostering healthy team dynamics with a focus on self-awareness. Whether you're a seasoned leader or new to pastoral ministry, this conversation will encourage and equip you to lead with renewed clarity and grace. Our conversation with Glenn Packiam covers: The impossible expectations placed on pastors today and how to navigate them with grace. The timeless wisdom of the church, including the value of ancient practices like the prayer of Examen. The power that self-awareness and healthy team has to sustain longevity in ministry. We're thankful you've joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Biography Glenn Packiam serves as the Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California. Glenn has written several books, including The Resilient Pastor, Blessed Broken Given, and his latest work, The Intentional Year, co-authored with his wife, Holly. Holding a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University, Glenn is also a Senior Fellow at Barna Group, a Visiting Fellow at St. John's College, Durham University, and an ordained priest in the Anglican Church of North America. As a songwriter, Glenn has contributed to over 65 worship songs. Glenn and Holly reside in Orange County, California, with their four children. Sponsors We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Guest Notes Glenn's Website Rockharbor Church The Resilient Pastor The Intentional Year Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram
This week on The Pastorate we are excited to host Carey Nieuwhof—Bestselling author, Host of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast, and Founding Pastor of Connexus Church in Barrie, Ontario Today's episode covers a wide range of topics: Carey discusses his journey of founding and then stepping back from the Lead role at Connexus Church. He reflects on how stepping aside has required humility and an intentional shift from leading to supporting. Carey takes the time to walk us through some insights on the shift away from consumer Christianity towards a desire for genuine discipleship and connection as well as a need to reorient our ministry models alongside this cultural shift. He opens up about his experience with the potential dangers of pastoring: isolation or confusing church success with personal faith — along with practices like friendship and building a life outside of ministry to help mitigate the danger. We're thankful you've joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Bio | Carey Nieuwhof is a bestselling leadership author, speaker, podcaster, and former attorney. He hosts one of today's most influential leadership podcasts. His podcast, blog, and online content are accessed by leaders over 1.5 million times each month. He speaks to leaders around the world about leadership, change, and personal growth through the Art of Leadership Academy. His work has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, Business Insider, and on EntreLeadership. Carey and his wife, Toni, live north of Toronto, Canada and have two grown sons. We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Guest Notes The Art of Leadership Academy At Your Best Book Instagram Connexus Church Article on Preaching Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
This week on The Pastorate, Rachel Hughes—Pastor of Gas Street Church in Birmingham, England—joins us on the podcast for a conversation on pastoral ministry. Rachel shares about: The experience of planting Gas Street Church, the ongoing cycle of raising and sending new leaders, and how church planting can disrupt comfort zones, keep churches mission-focused, and foster a kingdom mindset. Managing her roles as a church leader and a mother of five, navigating the complexities of parenting, pastoring, and fostering a local church community while also contributing to the broader church. Her work with The Orchard and her passion for creating spaces for women to explore their leadership potential, advocating for a church culture where men and women lead side-by-side for the sake of the Kingdom. We're thankful you've joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Bio | Rachel is the co-founder and co-lead pastor of Gas Street Church in Birmingham, where she and her husband, Tim, have served their community since 2015. She also co-founded The Orchard, a ministry devoted to seeing women set free, raised up, and released to answer God's call on their lives. Rachel is passionate about inspiring young women in leadership and helping them be emboldened by the Holy Spirit to stand firm in the truths of God's Word, unaffected by cultural values that may seek to divert or deplete them. Tim and Rachel have five beautiful children, joyfully balancing their ministry with family life. We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Guest Notes Gas Street Church The Orchard Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
This week in the inaugural episode of The Pastorate, Adam Browett – Pastor of Calvary Temple in Winnipeg, Manitoba – joins us on the podcast for a conversation on pastoral ministry. Adam shares about: What Adam's been learning recently, as a naturally gifted speaker, about continuing to develop his craft of preaching, Adam's journey discerning transition–taking on the role of lead pastor for a historic church and how he's guided his family in the midst of the move, and Leading an inner city church to embrace and celebrate the neighbourhood they find themselves in We're praying that today you would be strengthened to live more fully into the work that God has for you in the place and context of your own neighbourhood. Bio | Adam has been in full-time ministry since 2005, serving churches across Western Canada, including BC, Alberta, and Manitoba. He's passionate about reaching challenging areas where Christians often hesitate to go and encourages others to do the same. In February 2024, Adam, his wife Shandy, and their four children moved to Winnipeg, following God's leading. He now serves as the Lead Pastor at Calvary Temple, a historic PAOC church with a diverse community representing different generations, cultures, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds. We couldn't do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Visit the Coram Deo Foundation website to learn more about the Joseph Chung Scholarship and to apply. Applications are open from October 21st–October 27th. Show Notes Guest Calvary Temple The Pastorate Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Since its inception over four years ago, the Canadian Church Leaders Network (CCLN) has served thousands of pastors through its podcast, monthly newsletter, cohort-based programs, and pastors retreats and gatherings. This week, Jason Ballard, host of the Canadian Church Leaders Podcast and Executive Director of CCLN sits down with Chris Price to discuss the future of CCLN and the adoption of a new name for both the organization and the podcast: The Pastorate. Jason reflects on: The rationale behind the naming of The Pastorate and the organization's renewed focus on serving pastors, The current state of Canadian church leadership, How The Pastorate is serving to strengthen Canadian pastors through content, cohorts, and gatherings. As CCLN becomes The Pastorate, we invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
We've got a special episode for all of you this week. The CCLN Team is working hard on a special project that will be officially announced with the October 7th episode on the podcast, but we didn't want to leave you high and dry this week. In 2022, we had Keith Taylor speak to a group of Pastors as part of our first cohort based program, The Church Leaders Incubator. Out of the many amazing speakers that the cohort was able to learn from, this was a session that captures our desire for creating opportunities to grow in competency with hearts full of love for Jesus and love for people. Don't let the topic dissuade you, this episode is worth your time. Jason will also take a moment to share some insight into what is coming up for our team here at CCLN. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
The work of renewal in a church is slow, costly, and long-term. It requires pastors who consistently say, “I can't do this alone,” and who return to the feet of Jesus, the One making all things new. This week, Father James Mallon, Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in beautiful Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, joins us on the podcast to share his heart for evangelism and his passion for parish renewal. Father James reflects on: His journey back to local church ministry after a season in parachurch and diocesan roles Re-experiencing the cost of renewal in a parish setting Tending to the inevitable wounds of pastoral ministry The Holy Spirit as both the gathering and sending force of the Church We hope you find joy and comfort in knowing that pastoral ministry is a shared journey, as brothers and sisters across Canada collectively pray, “Come, Holy Spirit.” Bio | Father James Mallon is pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and founder of the Divine Renovation Ministry. The message of Divine Renovation has resonated in the hearts of tens of thousands of pastors and lay leaders throughout the world. It has inspired and motivated them to act and seek help in transforming their own faith community. To answer their needs, the Divine Renovation Ministry was created. Fr James continues to serve the Divine Renovation Ministry with a portion of his time. Born in Scotland, Father James and his family moved to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada in 1982. After studying at Christ the King Seminary in British Columbia and St. Augustine's Seminary in Toronto, Father James was ordained to the Catholic priesthood in 1997. He currently resides in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In addition to his ministry, Father James loves soccer, movies, photography, dogs, everything Apple and good Single Malt Scotch. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Guest: Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Divine Renovation Divine Renovation Book Thriving Faith Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
As pastors we want to run the race well and finish more in love with Jesus and with His church than when we started. Pastors that have been both fruitful and faithful set a beautiful example for what longevity in ministry can look like. This week, Dan Cochrane, Pastor of CrossRoads Church in Red Deer, Alberta, joins us on the podcast to share insights from over 45 years of experience as a Pastor. With 27 of those years being spent at CrossRoads Church alone. Dan shares about: His story and the path he took to discovering his call to the Pastorate His experience inheriting a legacy of faithfulness Managing church growth and learning to grow alongside the church he is pastoring The gift it is to be able to preach the Living Word of God Today we're praying that you would hear the invitation to joy and delight in the Holy Spirit as you hear the passion and energy Dan carries for the Church in Canada. Bio | Dan Cochrane has been the Senior Pastor of CrossRoads Church since July 1, 1997. Prior to CrossRoads, he pastored in North Vancouver for 18 years. He has been married to his wife, Ginny, since June 1977 and they have three adult children: Rick (Jenn), Christina, and Ryan (Janine). Their lives have also been blessed with six grandchildren. The vision of CrossRoads Church is: “To give everyone in Central Alberta an opportunity to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and by following Him together, impact the world with compassion and hope.” Dan is passionate about theology and studying scriptures. His focus is to teach the Bible and to lead the church forward in accomplishing the vision God has given. He also delights in developing young leaders and watching them grow. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: CrossRoads Church Get Connected! Gatherings Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
What does community look like when it's rooted in love and grounded in the realities of life? How do we grab hold of a vision for biblical unity within our congregations and learn to live in the tensions that come with knowing and loving others well? This week, Rich Villodas, author of The Deeply Formed Life and Pastor of New Life Fellowship, joins us on the podcast for a second time to share insights from his wealth of experience and out of his heart to care well for other pastors. Rich shares about: The realities of biblical unity, what it looks and feels like in a dynamic congregation Dealing with expectations that are placed on Pastors, by others and by themselves His new book, The Narrow Path, and how the Sermon on the Mount offers a reframing of what it means to follow Jesus in our time We hope by listening to this conversation you experience a fresh invitation to the counter-cultural way of Jesus and that His love and grace cover you and keep you today. Bio | Rich Villodas is the Brooklyn-born lead pastor of New Life Fellowship, a large multiracial church with more than seventy-five countries represented in Elmhurst, Queens. Rich holds a Master of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary. He enjoys reading widely, preaching and writing on contemplative spirituality, justice-related matters, and the art of preaching. He's been married to Rosie since 2006 and they have two beautiful children, Karis and Nathan. Rich is the author of three books: The Deeply Formed Life, Good and Beautiful and Kind, and The Narrow Path. Every dollar given in the month of August will be matched up to $25000. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to The Way College for supporting this episode. If you are interested in exploring whether The Way College might be a good fit for you, visit thewaycollege.ca Applications are still open for the Fall. Apply by August 24th, to have your enrolment fee waived. Show Notes: Website New Life Fellowship The Narrow Path Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
The church growth movement of the 20th-century has left a lasting impact on our perception of the Church today. What can we learn from its successes and shortcomings, and how can we move forward in the context of our post-everything society? This week, Daniel Im from Beulah Alliance Church in Edmonton joins us on the podcast for a second time Daniel shares about: His experience pastoring in the midst of deep loss Reflections on the transition into the Lead Pastor role of Beulah Alliance Church, a church with a 103 year history The value of surrounding yourself with people who can sharpen you and challenge you while you are in leadership His new book, The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World We hope this conversation encourages and equips you as you serve those in your church and in your community. Bio | Daniel Im is a pastor, Bible teacher, writer, and podcast host with a passion for the local church. He is the Lead Pastor of Beulah Alliance Church in Edmonton, Alberta. His latest book is The Discipleship Opportunity: Leading a Great-Commission Church in a Post-Everything World (NavPress 2024). He has also written No Silver Bullets: Five Small Shifts that will Transform Your Ministry (B&H Books 2017), Planting Missional Churches: Your Guide to Starting Churches that Multiply (2nd Ed) (B&H Academic, 2016), and You Are What You Do: And Six Other Lies about Work, Life, and Love (B&H Books 2020). He has an M.A. in Global Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary, and has served and pastored in church plants and multisite churches ranging from 100 people to 50,000 people in Vancouver, Ottawa, Montreal, Korea, Edmonton, and Nashville. His podcasts have been downloaded over 3 million times, and he currently co-hosts the IMbetween Podcast with his wife, Christina, where they help you discover the tools to build a marriage and family you love. Together, they serve as speakers for FamilyLife Canada's Weekend Getaway Marriage Conference. Daniel also serves as a Bible teacher for 100 Huntley Street, Canada's longest running daily television show. He has been married to his wife, Christina, since 2006 and they have three children. For more information, visit danielim.com and follow him on social media @danielsangi. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: The Discipleship Opportunity Daniel Im's Website Beulah Alliance Church Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Every leader faces moments when vision dims and passion wavers. How do we sustain a vision for long term leadership and be able to lead with joy in our hearts and conviction in our steps? This week, Shaila Visser from Alpha joins us on the podcast for a second time to share insights from her extensive leadership experience. Shaila shares about: Sustaining vision for longevity in ministry The importance of asking the Holy Spirit to spark passion for personal evangelism New research Alpha has done in partnership with flourishing congregations on the perception and practices of evangelism in Canada today We hope this conversation fills you with hope and encouragement that you are part of a work that God is doing across our nation in our time. Bio | Shaila Visser is the National Director of Alpha Canada and the Global Senior Vice-President for Alpha International. She is the Executive Producer of both The Alpha Youth Film Series (2013) and The Alpha Film Series (2016), and currently holds a position on the Board of the Damascus Road Foundation. Shaila has a heart for people coming to know Jesus and is passionate about helping the local church flourish. She is a gifted communicator who is known for her strategic leadership as well as her ability to bring people together. Shaila loves hiking, beaches, next generation leaders, her big anglo-Indian family, and achieving new goals- whether that be fitness, books, or learning. Shaila lives in Vancouver BC with her husband, Ryan Visser, a Vancouver Police Officer, and their four-legged family members, Talon and Benny. View the Reigniting Hope Report. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: Alpha Canada Study from Angus Reid Institute and Cardus Youth Alpha Get Connected! Gatherings Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
What is unique about your church that you bring to the broader body of Christ? And, what from the broader body of Christ can you draw from and be strengthened by? Chrishan Jeyaratnam joined us this week from Hillsong East Coast where he and his wife Danielle serve as Lead Pastors. Chrishan shared with us about his family's move from Perth to New York during the pandemic, and what it has been like to serve the church alongside his kids. Arriving in New York during a time of great cultural tension & loss, there's a lot of wisdom to be found in the stories Chrishan shares about leading people through grief, reckoning with distrust, and seeking transformation as a community. It's a conversation that leads us to reflect on the unique charism of our churches in our cities, and how we are mutually strengthened as we grow in friendship with other church traditions. Bio | Chrishan and his wife Danielle have served at Hillsong Church for many years, most recently as the Lead Pastors at Hillsong East Coast USA where they have been pastoring for the past 3 years. Before moving to New York with their four daughters, Chrishan and Danielle previously pastored at Hillsong Church Perth in Australia. As a family, they are committed to loving God and people, and to and living the adventure that it is to build His Church. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Guest: Hillsong East Coast CCLN: Darrell Johnson's Genesis Course Darrell Johnson's Genesis Preaching Notes Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
How can the people of God inhabit our cities - in workplaces, commutes & classrooms in a way that's coloured by the hope of God's kingdom breaking in? This week Tyler Staton and Pete Hughes join us on the podcast in a conversation that was originally a part of one of our Emerging Leaders Lab cohort sessions. Tyler and Pete share about: Finding Rhythms of Personal & Corporate Prayer Creating a Culture of Contending Through Storytelling Seeing God's Redemptive Vision for Your City We were inspired by their ability to see redemption in their local communities and hope you will share their passion for your own city. Bio | Pete Hughes is the Senior Pastor of KXC, an Anglican church in the heart of London. Pete and his wife Bee planted the church in 2010, establishing a community with the simple vision to recklessly give themselves away to God, each other, and the people of King's Cross and beyond. Tyler Staton is the Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland, Oregon, and the National Director of 24-7 Prayer USA. He is passionate about pursuing prayer—communion and conversation with God—while living deeply, poetically, wildly, and freely in the honest and gritty realities of day-to-day life. Tyler believes that justice is kinship, stories are a gift, and prayer is an invitation. Tyler is also the author of Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools and Searching for Enough: The High-Wire Walk Between Doubt and Faith, and the host of the Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools Podcast. He lives in Portland with his wife Kirsten, and their sons Hank, Simon, and Amos. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: 24/7 Prayer KXC Bridgetown Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
38 years into ministry, Helen Burns speaks of the Church with love in her voice and delight in the work God is doing among His people today. Joining us on the podcast for a second time, Helen is a voice of encouragement as she reflects on what she has learned along the way. From planting Relate Church with her husband John in 1986, to the process of succession as their daughter Angela and her husband Rod stepped into the lead pastor role in 2018 - the significance of mentorship and intergenerational relationships underpin our conversation. Helen reflects back on past ministry with humility, letting us into moments where she felt the heart was right but the emphasis was off. Helen humbly models what it looks like to stay soft to the way God is pruning and growing His people, leading us into deeper purity as we walk with Him. As we consider the need for spaces of belonging, we hope you'll find inspiration for how you can set the table for pastors to gather in your community, making room for God to break through the isolation many experience in ministry. Helen Burns is a passionate lover of Jesus and committed to building His Church. She and her husband John pioneered Relate Church, a thriving family church in the Vancouver area, in 1986 where they served as lead pastors for 35 years. Today, they continue to teach and serve there while travelling and speaking internationally. Helen shares with depth and insight on marriage, family and relationships, and is the author of several books. John and Helen have been married for over 50 years and they have three awesome daughters and she is the blessed Oma of eight grandchildren. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: Relate Church The Contemplative Pastor by Eugene Peterson CCLN Emerging Leaders Lab CCLN Pastors Retreat Barna Statistics See, Hear, Love Youtube/Podcast Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Letting Jesus shepherd us into renewed courage and contentment when our vision for success has been broken is a wrestle many of us are familiar with. It's a path that our guest this week, Evan Allnutt, has walked at different moments in his vocational journey. Through changing careers from teaching to ministry, taking on a Lead Pastor role at a new church, and navigating the changing cultural dynamics in the last 4 years, surrender and re-surrender to Christ's leading has been a red thread through it all. In moments where he felt like a failure, Evan shared how God stirred fresh hope in him as he situated himself within the rich legacy of the 87-year-old church he pastors, and the global Church as he heard stories of revival in his denomination, and witnessed the Church full of vibrancy and life in London, U.K. For the pastor who feels discouraged or alone, this episode is drenched in Kingdom imagination & vulnerability. We hope that it emboldens you to press into where God has called you, as you look left and right and see who is running the race alongside you.Bio | Evan and his wife Kendal, along with their three children Izzy, Hardy, and Nola, have been proud residents of the Comox Valley since 2015. After dedicating five years as Youth Pastor and one year as Associate Pastor at Coastline Church in Victoria, Evan sensed a divine calling to assume the Lead Pastor role at Northgate. For the past 7 years, Evan has joyfully served this community, overseeing its growth from a single service in one city to three services across two cities. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: Northgate Church Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
John Mark Comer joins us again for a conversation on why people in our congregations are gravitating towards spiritual formation right now, and how we can pastor people beyond conversion into deeper healing and sanctification in their walk with Christ. Jason and John Mark talk through what it's like to pastor today, and how the cultural hostility pastors navigate can purify our motivations and remind us that Christ is our reward. Thinking about practices for pastoral longevity, John Mark shares the need for balanced rest and activation and how to cultivate deep, brutally honest friendships. This episode encourages us to think deeply about the role of confession in the Pastorate, how we can shepherd people in different stages of discipleship, and the desire people in the Church have for deeper communion with God. Bio | John Mark Comer, once the founding pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland, dedicated two decades to integrating discipleship to Jesus into the post-Christian West. In 2021, he pivoted to developing spiritual formation resources for global church communities through Practicing the Way. Now residing in Topanga Canyon, Los Angeles, he crafts new practices, courses, and podcasts while serving as a teacher at Vintage Church LA. A New York Times bestselling author, Comer's notable works include "Practicing the Way" and "The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry." Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: Practicing The Way Books by John Mark Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Mark Buchanan sits down with us again to explore everything from how storytelling forms us to our addiction to control. He articulates how narratives help us navigate the truths of life and our identity, emphasizing the significance of weaving hope-filled, gospel-rooted stories into the fabric of our cultural imagination. Throughout our conversation, Mark draws from the life of David to think about leaning on character over gifting and the temptation of success. Mark offers a candid look into what spiritual practices have deepened his love for Jesus, and what he has been learning about the importance of deep friendships in this season of his life. This episode is an invitation to reevaluate our leadership in ministry, challenging us to lead in a manner that not only fosters integrity but cultivates a deeper love for Jesus. Bio | Mark is an author, Associate Professor of Theology at Ambrose University in Calgary, Alberta, and former pastor. His books include “God Walk: Moving at the Speed of Your Soul” and the ever-popular “The Rest of God.” In 2021 Mark and his wife Cheryl started New Story Community, a ministry that seeks to walk alongside Indigenous Women who need space for healing. The program focuses on academic and biblical study, skill development, and personal goal-setting. The heart is to join God in His work of writing a story of hope, redemption and healing in the lives of His people. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: New Story Community Mark Buchanan Website Ambrose University The Rest of God by Mark Buchanan God Walk by Mark Buchanan Spiritual Rhythm by Mark Buchanan Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
How do we contextualize our churches to the neighbourhoods God has called us to? And how do you keep your heart healthy when people leave your church? In today's episode with Tammy Giffen, lead pastor of Groundswell Church in Truro, Nova Scotia, we explore these questions and more from her journey in ministry. Tammy became a Christian through Alpha as an adult and later moved into vocational ministry, eventually planting Groundswell in 2018. It's a story of leading in ministry for the long haul, compelled by uncovering the beauty of Jesus for herself, and in the lives of the community she pastors.
In this episode, Jason sits down with the pioneer of the Alpha Course and former Vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton in London, Nicky Gumbel. Nicky shares about his journey of transitioning leadership at HTB after nearly two decades in the senior role, emphasizing the importance of healthy succession and not taking changes made by new leaders personally. Their church, HTB, is helping to train pastors in England through a new initiative called the Caleb and Peter streams. Their vision is to see tens of thousands of pastors equipped, coming from less educated and affluent backgrounds, or who have retired from previous careers and are in the later seasons of life. Later in the conversation, Nicky shares a profound vision for the future of the Church: that the bible would be translated and the gospel shared to 99.6% of the world by the 17th of April, 2033. Nicky's joy for evangelism and seeing as many people as possible come to know and follow Jesus is a beautiful gift to the global church. We hope this conversation stirs your imagination for what God can do in your own context as you seek to spread the good news of Jesus with others. Bio | Nicky Gumbel is the former vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB) in London. Together with his wife Pippa, they pioneered Alpha, an introduction to the Christian faith run by all the major Christian denominations in 169 countries. Nicky has written several best-selling books including Questions of Life, The Jesus Lifestyle, Searching Issues and A Life Worth Living. He is the author of the free Bible reading app Bible in One Year. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: The Leadership Conference is a unique opportunity for leaders to be equipped in their leadership through conversations, world-class content, and the power of the Holy Spirit. Register for LC24 on the 6th-7th May at the Royal Albert Hall in London here. Holy Trinity Brompton Alpha Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In this episode, Jason had a conversation with Jerry L. Sittser, a retired professor of theology from Whitworth University, renowned for his expertise in Christian spirituality and history. In this conversation, Jerry shares the relevance of early Christian practices in today's world and highlights the importance of the church embracing a new catechumen. He unpacks the challenges and opportunities for the church posed by a post-Christendom world, advocating for a deeper, more resilient approach to faith. Jerry also shares personal reflections on grief and loss not as something to avoid, but learning to carry it redemptively. His dedication to bridging academia and the church infuses our dialogue with hope and understanding, inviting us to explore what it means to follow Jesus in our time. Bio | Jerry has been a professor emeritus of theology and senior fellow at Whitworth University, specializing in the History of Christianity, Christian Spirituality, and Religion in American Public Life. He is now retired and spends much of his time with his 11 grandchildren. He has written nine books, among them are A Grace Disguised, The Will of God as a Way of Life, Water from a Deep Well, and his most recent book, Resilient Faith: How the Early Christian “Third Way” Changed the World. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: A Grace Disguised Revised and Expanded: How the Soul Grows through Loss Resilient Faith: How the Early Christian "Third Way" Changed the World Water From a Deep Well: Christian Spirituality from Early Martyrs to Modern Missionaries Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Change and the process of pruning are essential yet challenging aspects of personal growth and church life. Jonathan Smith understands this reality deeply, having navigated 30 years of church ministry and leadership. In this engaging conversation with Jason, Jonathan candidly shares his transformative journey, from the bold endeavor of planting a church at the young age of 23 to the nuanced task of guiding an established congregation toward embracing the next generation. Jonathan's entrepreneurial spirit, seasoned wisdom, and unwavering passion for the thriving of the church in Canada shine through as he reflects on his experiences. Through his insights, we invite you to glean from this conversation on how to navigate change well, foster healthy growth, and the importance of listening to those older and further along in the faith journey. Bio | Jonathan has over 30 years of leadership and pastoral experience - leading churches in Halifax, Montreal and Toronto. He has been a church planter, Lead Pastor and thought leader in the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. Jonathan is married to Shelly and has three young children. His ministry has been marked by innovative strategies and an emphasis on team development and change management. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: One Church Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Discipleship lies at the heart of the Christian journey, yet it often becomes compartmentalized within separate ministries or aspects of the Christian faith. Jeff Vanderstelt, with years of experience leading others in the way of Jesus and equipping the broader church through his writings, is now dedicated to mentoring pastors and leaders in gospel fluency and missional living. In this insightful discussion, Jason and Jeff delve into the significance of maintaining an open-handed approach to those entrusted to pastors' care, navigating critical voices, and the profound impact of Dallas Willard's last unanswered question. Jeff candidly shares his personal leadership journey within a fractured church, reflecting on how God's intervention brought healing to his own brokenness amid numerous challenges. We hope this conversation encourages you and we invite you to share any thoughts or reflections on how it may have impacted you with us. Bio | As the Executive Director of Saturate and founding leader of the Soma Family of Churches, Jeff Vanderstelt gets to spend his days doing what he loves – mentoring leaders and equipping the Church in the gospel and missional living. Additionally, Jeff is on the leadership team of Saturate the Sound, a local church collective focused on gospel saturation in the Puget Sound. Jeff has authored Saturate, Gospel Fluency, and Making Space. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: One Eighty: A Return to Disciple Making Saturate Soma Churches Youth Pastors Summit | East: DISCOUNT CODE: Register today with CYPS20OFF for a total of $50 off the regular registration rate. Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In this episode, Jason had the privilege of sitting down and having a conversation with his very first pastors—Angel and Durwin Gray, who played a crucial role in shaping his pastoral imagination during his formative years. Angel and Durwin have been serving as pastors at Hillside Church for 25 years, and they generously shared with us the joys, challenges, and insights they have gained throughout their journey. They delve into the profound meaning of being called to a specific place and community, navigating feelings of doubt and imposter syndrome, and embracing parenting as the primary avenue of discipleship amid the demands of ministry. Angel and Durwin emanate joy, care, sincerity, and reflect the hope of Christ for the world. Enjoy this insightful conversation, and if it sparks any thoughts about the individuals or experiences that shaped your pastoral imagination, feel free to share them in the comments or send us a message at contact@ccln.ca. Bio | Durwin and Angel were university sweethearts and have been married now for 31 years. They have two young adult sons, Caleb and Noah, and they help make the Gray household a little on the loud side. The Gray's are a pretty tight-knit family who tend to love films, road trips, and the band Coldplay. Thirty plus years ago, Angel and Durwin got involved in church planting, and helped plant the church Durwin now pastors, called Hillside Community Church in Coquitlam. Angel runs her own accounting business and has a passion for mentoring, teaching, and prayer. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Show Notes: Hillside Church Youth Pastors Summit | East: DISCOUNT CODE: Register today with CYPS20OFF for a total of $50 off the regular registration rate. Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
This past year we gathered for a one day conference with pastors and leaders from across North America, collaborating with our friends at Practicing The Way. Together, we engaged in meaningful discussions on spiritual formation within the context of the local church. This full day gathering consisted of teaching and dialogue from John Mark Comer, Ken Shigematsu, Tyler Staton, and Elita Friesen. Elita closed the conference with a beautiful message on abiding in Christ, sharing that as we lead people to a deepening relationship with God we ourselves would abide deeply in Jesus. We hope this message gives you hope and a renewed vision to abide in Jesus as we move into 2024. Bio | Elita Friesen is a writer and Bible teacher and has served in various ministry capacities for the last 10 years. She currently serves on the teaching and pastoral team at The Way Church, a church with locations in both Vancouver and North Vancouver. Elita feels uniquely called to encourage this generation not only toward biblical literacy, but also toward a deep love of Jesus through the study of Scripture. She is the author of several books including The Whole Church. Elita and her husband, Ryan, live in the lower mainland of BC with their four children. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Show Notes: Emerging Leaders Lab Pastors Retreat Youth Pastors Summit | East: DISCOUNT CODE: Register today with CYPS20OFF for a total of $50 off the regular registration rate. The Resilient Pastor, Glenn Packiam Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In this episode, Jason and Darren Herbold, President of The Alliance Canada, mine Darren's eclectic ministry background which includes time in pastoral ministry, the business world and in the missionary field. Darren lets us into his own journey of wanting to be an active, not reluctant, follower of Jesus and all the places that posture took him. Throughout the conversation, Darren emphasizes his most formative learnings, sharing themes like listening to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, the speed of love, what a cultivated curiosity toward others can impact & more. The conversation concludes with Darren's reflection on the importance of faithfulness in each ministry season: whether unfair, uneventful or full of God's leading. We hope you enjoy this insightful conversation. Bio | Darren has served The Alliance Canada for over 15 years. Darren served as pastoral staff for seven years at Beulah Alliance. In 2014, Darren, and his wife, Naomi, were sent as international workers to Thailand where they served for over eight years. In 2015, Darren and Naomi were appointed as Team Leaders, and then in 2019, as Regional Developers, providing leadership and oversight to the region. Darren Herbold also served on the Board of Directors for the past four years. Darren also has significant experience in the area of entrepreneurial business, founding and directing an international charitable organization, For Freedom International, focused on anti-trafficking, community development, and Gospel multiplication efforts in southeast Asia. In July 2022, The Alliance Canada appointed Rev. Darren Herbold to serve as President of The Alliance Canada. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: The Alliance Canada For Freedom International Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Today, church planter and worship leader Evan Whickman joins us from Park Hill Church in sunny San Diego. In this conversation, Jason and Evan explore various themes, starting with Evan's personal journey of deconstructing and reconstructing his faith in Jesus, and the environments that helped him along the way. Together, they also unpack the concept of "Compassionate and Courageous Orthodoxy," and in it, the delicate balance of standing firm on core Christian truths while creating environments for open and honest conversations. Evan shares profound insights on engaging in meaningful dialogue with those who hold different perspectives, while both tackling challenging questions and maintaining a genuine curiosity toward those in the conversation. Throughout the interview, Evan exudes faith and courage while staying grounded in the complexities of pastoring in this moment. We hope you enjoy our conversation with him. Bio | Evan Wickham is a worship leader, songwriter, speaker, and lead pastor of Park Hill Church in San Diego, CA, which he co-founded in 2017 with Sandy, his wife of 23 years (and their five kids). In addition to teaching and curating worship experiences in various communities, he has released four albums of worship songs in order to resource the broader body of Christ. He holds an MDiv from Western Seminary in Portland, OR and helped launch Searock Sessions, a cohort and growing community for hundreds of leaders seeking renewal in the Western church. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: Park Hill Church Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Darrell Johnson, our record holder for “most interviews on the podcast” joins us to speak into the evolving landscape of pastoral ministry. Join Jason and Darrell as they explore themes like the art of preaching, going the distance in ministry and marriage, and to close, Darrell's thoughts on the ancient ten commandments' continued relevance in a modern world. Throughout the entire conversation, there is one thread that continually emerges as vital: the pastor's job is to guide people toward abiding in Jesus. We hope this conversation serves you to that important end. Bio | Darrell Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His Gospel for over 50 years. He has served a number of Presbyterian congregations in California, Union Church of Manila in the Philippines, and the historic First Baptist Church in the heart of Vancouver, Canada. He has taught preaching for Fuller Theological Seminary, Carey Theological College in Vancouver, and Regent College in Vancouver. He has authored eight books, including The Glory of Preaching and Discipleship on the Edge: An Expository Journey Through Revelation. He is currently serving as Scholar-in-Residence for The Way Church and Canadian Church Leaders Network. He and his wife Sharon have been married 46 years. Together they have raised four children adopted from four different countries of the world, and now enjoy loving nine active grandchildren! Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Prepare your church to respond to global crises by connecting with Chris from World Vision. Show Notes: “That You May Live: How the 10 Commandments Lead to Human Freedom” Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
For this 30-minute episode, we're stepping away from our usual podcast format to dive deep into a topic that we know many pastors feel stuck or uncomfortable in – the art of communicating about giving and generosity to a church. Our friends at Generis are passionate about helping pastors nurture a culture of biblical generosity and stewardship in your churches. Join Jon Wright from Generis, and Executive Pastor Jordan Michalski from Soul Sanctuary, as they provide insights to guide and lighten your load as you foster a healthy culture of giving in your community. Bio | Jon has worked as an entrepreneur, founding and leading a product development company for 15 years, and served eight years as Executive Pastor at Grace Church in Eden Prairie, MN. He and his wife, Julie, also led a Missionary Training Center in Germany for several years. As an Executive pastor, Jon was a client of Generis. He found the process so effective and beneficial that he joined their team. He has 30 years of experience in innovation and execution in multiple settings; corporate, non-profit, church, and global missions. Jon brings an entrepreneurial mindset to church culture and strategic planning. He is passionate about healthy teams, ministry effectiveness, next-generation leadership development, and resourcing it all through generosity. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Show Notes: FREE Resource: Best Year-End Giving Ever | Strategies for abundant year-end giving and growing generosity in the new year. Reach out to Jon personally at jon.wright@generis.com Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
No matter where you fall on your church's organizational chart, we believe that this conversation with Ebonie around thoughtful discipleship in the youth space will serve you. In their time together, Ebonie and Jason explore how the church can play a vital role in nurturing a Jesus-centered joy among young people. They also touch on topics like contextual spiritual formation for the next-generation and adopting a “whole church” vision for youth discipleship within a community. Ebonie also courageously shares her deeply moving and inspirational journey of discovering Jesus. We hope you enjoy the conversation with the joy-exuding Ebonie Davis. Bio | Ebonie Davis is a founding member of the Arbor Research Group and an expert in qualitative research and program evaluation. She is a graduate of the DeVos Urban Leadership Institute, where she focused on Urban Youth Ministry, and holds a Master's degree in Student Leadership from Huntington University. Ebonie is an international conference speaker and co-author of the book Disrupting Teens with Joy: Helping Teens Discover Jesus-Focused Gritty Faith, as well as a contributor on other books, Bibles, articles, and research related to youth ministry. She has served as Associate Pastor of Youth at Trinity Baptist Church in Waldorf, MD for more than 15 years. She and her husband, Clay, live in the DC area, and they have two adult children. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Prepare your church to respond to global crises by connecting with Chris from World Vision. Show Notes: Arbor Research Group Disrupting Teens with Joy: Helping Youth Discover Jesus-Focused Gritty Faith Ebonie Davis LinkedIn Canadian Youth Pastors Summit Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In this episode, we deviate from our typical format of interviewing a pastor, to host a conversation with Pieter Valk from Equip on how the Church can live into loving and serving the LGBT+ community. Through conversations with pastors across Canada and beyond, we know that this topic holds a lot of questions and tensions for the pastor. To speak to that, we invited Chris Price, Teaching Pastor at The Way Church, to wade with Pieter into not just the theology of sexuality, marriage and singleness, but also how pastors can bridge the gap that often exists between the Church and this community. In the conversation they discuss Pieter's personal story of enduring same-sex attraction, why he landed outside the revisionist sexual ethic, what he wished pastors said to him growing up & much more. We hope this conversation serves to fuel your empathy and consideration for what it might look like for the Church to love a community that's dear to the Lord's heart. Bio | Pieter Valk is the director of EQUIP, a Nashville-based consulting ministry that partners with churches to become places where LGBT+ people can belong and thrive according to an orthodox Christian sexual ethic. Pieter graduated from Vanderbilt University with Highest Honors in Chemistry in 2013. After graduating, Pieter studied at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary for a year with a focus on Lay Leadership and Culture-making. As a fellow of the Boston Fellows Program, he worked as a ministry development intern and completed a 26-week Pastoral Counseling course on relational and sexual brokenness. In 2016 Pieter graduated from Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, with his Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: Equip: Website Equip: Instagram Nashville Family of Brothers Pieter Valk: Instagram Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In this episode, join Jason Ballard as he interviews Jason Matta, the senior pastor of Hope Church Toronto West. This dynamic community, rooted in the gospel, unwavering in proclaiming the Word, and deeply reliant on prayer, has been serving the people of Toronto since 2012. In this episode, we explore Jason's story, stopping to discuss themes like navigating the temptation to give up in ministry, the importance of relying on prayer, and the significance of not sacrificing one's family life for the sake of the church. Canada is blessed with many pastors who embody passion, boldness, and humility in their service to their communities, and Jason is no exception. We hope this conversation encourages and spurs you on where the Lord has you. Bio | Pastor Jason grew up in a Christian home, and devoted his life to Christ at an early age. The Lord continued to guide Jason's life to pursue ministry, which resulted in a seminary degree. It was through God's direction that Jason was connected to Hope Bible Church in Oakville (formerly Harvest Bible Chapel Oakville) and eventually joined their staff in 2012. After much prayer, twenty-two faithful core members planted Hope Church Toronto West in 2013 under Pastor Jason's servant leadership. Pastor Jason is passionate about the glory of God, the mission of God, the Word of God, and humble dependence upon God in prayer. Jason and his wife, Aileen, have three wonderful children: Josiah, Abigail, and Silas. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Join Generis for a free online coaching call to learn about giving strategies for your church and growing a culture of generosity. Prepare your church to respond to global crises by connecting with Chris from World Vision. Show Notes: Hope Church West Toronto Great Commission Collective Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
It's not everyday that we have an Archbishop on the podcast... In this conversation, Jason and Archbishop Michael Miller dive into the story of how he ended up in such a prominent position in the Catholic Church, and the insights he's gleaned on church leadership along the way. Archbishop Miller generously shares his experiences overseeing seventy diverse parishes and navigating different challenges, including criticism. He also offers profound insights into the process of nurturing future priests and shared valuable resources on prayer, silence, and solitude from sages within the Catholic tradition. We hope that this episode encourages you in your own journey of following and leading with Jesus. Bio | Archbishop Miller is the chief shepherd of over 70 parishes in Vancouver with 400,000 baptized Catholics and has been a prominent figure in the city's religious community since 2007. Originally from Ottawa, he has a rich background in ministry and academia, studying and teaching theology in Rome, the United States, and Mexico. Archbishop Miller holds a theology doctorate from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome and seven honorary doctorates. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Show Notes: Archdiocese of Vancouver Proclaim Introduction to the Devout Life, St. Francis De Sales Prayer, Hans Urs von Balthasar Encounters With Silence, Karl Rahner Interior Freedom, Jacques Philippe Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
One of the most requested topics for the podcast has been preaching. Here it finally is… a long-awaited conversation on preaching featuring a friend of the podcast – pastor, preacher, and author Chris Price. After delving into Chris' captivating journey to faith, Jason and Chris devote the majority of their discussion to the art of preaching. Specifically, they focus on five insights Chris has gleaned from his years of preaching to the people of Vancouver. Whether preaching is your weekly duty or not, we hope this conversation can offer guidance on what to bear in mind when communicating the Gospel and the truth of Scripture. Bio | Chris has been a pastor for over 15 years and currently serves as a pastor at The Way Church in Vancouver, Canada. He is the author of 'Radical Hope: Resurrection Hope in a Hurting World' and 'Suffering With God', ‘A Response to Questions on Sexuality', and co-author of ‘The Whole Church: Women, Leadership, the Church, and Why It All Matters'. He is married to Diandra and has two kids, Kaden, and Mila. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: For more information on Chosen, email churches@worldvision.ca or Text CHOSEN to 807-787-4625 Show Notes: Searock Cohort Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
St. Paul's Bloor Street, the largest Anglican Church in Toronto, carries a 180-year-old history of ministry to one of Canada's greatest cities. Leading this diverse and expanding community is Bishop Jenny Andison. Join Jason and Jenny as they delve into her eclectic story – a life of ministry that covers the world, including places such as Tokyo, London, and Pakistan. They also explore topics like evangelism, church revitalization, and what Jenny describes as cultivating “the monastery within.” We hope this conversation with the brilliant and humble Jenny Andison encourages you as you seek to serve Jesus and His Church. Bio | Bishop Jenny Andison is the former area bishop of York-Credit Valley in the Diocese of Toronto and became Rector of St. Paul's Bloor Street in 2021. Bishop Jenny was born in England and has lived in Pakistan, India, Singapore, and Japan. She earned an Honours BA from Queen's University in 1994 and received her Master of Divinity from the University of Toronto (Wycliffe College) in 1997. In 2017, Wycliffe College honored the bishop with a Doctor of Divinity (honoris causa). She lives in Toronto with her lawyer husband Tim, and they have three daughters. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here. Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course. Show Notes: St. Paul's Bloor Street Alpha Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
For this interview, we welcome Jonny Hughes, an English pastor and close friend of Jason's, joining us all the way from Nottingham, England. Jonny's journey as a pastor began in London and Southern California, where he served in various churches for nearly a decade. In 2016, along with his wife, Amy, Jonny made the significant move to Nottingham to establish Trinity Church, a name that serves as a tribute to the longstanding legacy of Holy Trinity Church, which faithfully served Nottingham for over a century. Jason and Jonny spend the bulk of the conversation discussing the pivotal moments and attitudes that paved the way for the founding and flourishing of Trinity Church. We hope you find Jonny's reflections in this episode as moving and helpful as we did. Bio | Jonny Hughes is the Lead Pastor of Trinity Church Nottingham, a vibrant Church of England congregation that he and his wife, Amy, founded seven years ago. Over the past 15 years, Jonny has devoted his time to various roles in church leadership, serving communities in Nottingham, London, and previously, California. Outside of his pastoral duties, Jonny cherishes moments with his family, which includes his wife, Amy, and their four children. Additionally, Jonny indulges in his passion for golf, a sport he's truly addicted to, and proudly cheers for his favourite team, Manchester City. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Join Generis for a free online coaching call to learn about giving strategies for your church and growing a culture of generosity. Read World Vision's Open Generation Report to reach, love and serve the Next Generation in the most well-informed way. Show Notes: Trinity Church Nottingham Holy Trinity Brompton Alpha Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In a span of just a few decades, Montreal underwent a remarkable transformation, shedding its once-revered title of "city of a hundred steeples" to become one of Canada's most secularized urban centers. Today only 0.7% of Montreal's population identifies as evangelical Christians. Nevertheless, amidst this trend of secularization, God is building His Church in Montreal and David Pothier and his team at La Chapelle are no exception. In this conversation, David shares his own journey of faith, the challenges and triumphs of pastoring in Montreal, the historical decline of religious affiliation, and the approach behind La Chapelle's growth over the decade. Join us for the second episode of this mini-series where we are highlighting the ways God is moving in Montreal. Bio | David Pothier is the lead pastor of La Chapelle, a French speaking church planted in the heart of Montreal in 2013. La Chapelle is multiplying churches with a vision to plant several churches in Montreal, Quebec, and French speaking European countries in the upcoming years. He is the proud husband of Karine and father of four children. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their Bible Course here. Show Notes: La Chapelle Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor by D.A. Carson Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
In just a few decades, Montreal has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from the once-revered "city of a hundred steeples" to becoming one of Canada's most secularized urban centres. As a result, the percentage of Montreal's population identifying as evangelical Christians stands today at a mere 0.7%. However, despite this trend of secularization, God is building His Church in Montreal. Pastor Patti Miller, leading the 107 year old community of Evangel Church, stands as a shining example of this reality. Join us for this special two-episode series that focuses on two churches in Montreal and the pastors who lead them, beginning with the one and only Patti Miller. Bio | Patti is a pastor, blogger, urban-dweller, sometimes-runner, who laughs at her own jokes. Loves her spiky-haired husband Jeff, and visits Ukraine any chance she gets. Most of all, she's a follower of Jesus, loved by God. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Partners: Join Generis for a free online coaching call to learn about giving strategies for your church and growing a culture of generosity. Read World Vision's Open Generation Report to reach, love and serve the Next Generation in the most well-informed way. Show Notes: Evangel Church The Art of Neighbouring by Jay Pathak Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor by DA Carson Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
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