In All Things

In this episode of In All Things, Dean sits down with Dr. Michael Kruger – President of Reformed Theological Seminary, professor of New Testament and Early Christianity, and author of The Bully Pulpit. Michael will open the 45th General Assembly with the first worship message on Tuesday morning, helping set the tone for a week rooted in the firm foundation of the gospel. Together, Dean and Michael reflect on what it means to trust the Bible in a skeptical age, how the authority of Scripture shapes our identity as a church, and why that foundation is crucial for the EPC.

In his episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver is joined by Bob Garment, the Chief Parliamentarian of the EPC. As we look ahead to the 45th General Assembly, Bob walks us through the courts of the church, explains the role of the Chief Parliamentarian, and helps us understand how our polity supports the mission of the EPC. He also shares some insider tips for commissioners preparing to attend General Assembly – whether it's your first time or your forty-fifth! This episode is a great behind-the-scenes look at what happens during business sessions and how these gatherings reflect our theological commitments and shared vision.

In this kickoff episode of our General Assembly 2025 Series, Dean is joined by Marti Ratcliff, the General Assembly Team Lead and the EPC's go-to expert for all things GA. Together, they take listeners behind the scenes of what it takes to pull off a week like this – and why it matters. Marti shares what the role of GA Lead really entails, how she works year-round to bring the vision for General Assembly to life, and what attendees can expect from this year's experience at Ward Church in Northville, Michigan. From worship services and equipping sessions to networking lunches and registration logistics, Marti gives us a preview of the meaningful moments – and the moving parts – that make GA a rich and welcoming space for commissioners, leaders, and guests across the EPC.

In this special Good Friday episode of In All Things, Assistant Stated Clerk Michael Davis leads us in a time of reflection on the suffering, sacrifice, and saving grace of Jesus Christ. Focusing on Jesus' words on the cross in reference to Psalm 22, Michael invites us to pause and remember the weight of the crucifixion and the hope it brings to a broken world. As we journey through this sacred weekend, may this episode guide your heart toward deeper worship and gratitude for the love poured on our behalf. Happy Easter from all of us here at In All Things!

In this special final episode of our In All Things Book Club, our guests from throughout the series – Marcos Ortega, Nancy Duff, Joe Kim, and Rodger Woodworth – gather once more to speak directly with the author of The Seamless Life, Steven Garber. Together, they reflect on key themes from the book, such as vocation, friendship, lament, and hope, and share the moments and ideas that resonated most deeply with them. With thoughtful questions and rich dialogue, this conversation brings the series full circle, offering personal insights and deeper engagement with the author's vision of a life lived seamlessly in faith and work. Whether you've read every page or are just listening in, this episode offers a meaningful conclusion to our journey through The Seamless Life.

In the penultimate episode of our In All Things Book Club series, Dean Weaver is joined by Marcos Ortega, Nancy Duff, Rachel Toone, Joe Kim, and Rodger Woodworth for a thoughtful conversation on the last section of Steven Garber's The Seamless Life. Special guest Steven Garber himself also joins the conversation to reflect on the themes woven throughout his writing. Together, the group explores how vocation shapes our lives, the sacredness found in everyday moments, and what it means to remain faithful to the “something” we've been given to do – even when it may not feel like everything. They reflect on grace, friendship, brokenness, and the hope that sustains us in the tension between what is and what ought to be. Whether you've been reading along or are just joining the conversation, this episode offers a meaningful stop to a rich journey through The Seamless Life.

In this episode of our In All Things book club series, Dean is joined by guests Marcos Ortega, Rachel Toone, Nancy Duff, and Rodger Woodworth to continue exploring Steven Garber's The Seamless Life. As they discuss the second half of the book, they wrestle with the challenges of dualism in faith and life, the intersection of vocation and lamentation, and what it means to truly know the world while still loving it. How do we hold together the tension between the way things are and the way they ought to be? What does it mean to live with coherence in a fragmented world? Join us for this deep and thoughtful conversation on faith, calling, and what it takes to remain faithful in the face of brokenness.

In this episode of In All Things, our book club series continues as we explore the next section of Steven Garber's The Seamless Life. Dean Weaver is joined by a thoughtful panel of guests—Rachel Toone, Nancy Duff, Marcos Ortega, Joe Kim, and Roger Woodworth—to discuss vocation, occupation, and the intersection of the two. How do we understand the work we do in light of God's calling in our lives? Is there a difference between our job and our vocation? Together, our guests reflect on Garber's insights, sharing their own experiences of living faithfully in their professions while holding onto a broader vision of calling. From wrestling with fragmentation in our daily lives to embracing the responsibilities that come with knowing and loving the world, this conversation challenges us to think deeply about what it means to integrate faith and work. Whether you're in ministry, business, education, or any other field, this episode will encourage you to consider how your occupation is part of something much bigger—an invitation to live with coherence, purpose, and love. Tune in for a rich discussion on calling, responsibility, and the beauty of a life well-lived.

We're kicking off a special four-part book club series on The Seamless Life by Steven Garber, a thoughtful collection of essays exploring the integration of faith, work, and everyday life, Throughout this series, Dean Weaver will be joined by EPC leaders to reflect on the themes of calling, coherence, and what it means to live faithfully in a fragmented world. In this episode, Dean is joined by Rachel Toone, Marcos Ortega, and Rodger Woodworth to discuss the opening of the book. Together, they explore the idea of seeing “seamlessly” – living with integrity and purpose in both our occupation and vocation. What does it look like to follow Jesus not only in our worship, but in our work, relationships, and everyday activities? Join the conversation and read along with us as we reflect on the habits, hopes, and heart of a seamless life.

In this special episode of In All Things, Joe Stroup joins Dean Weaver to discuss the upcoming Next Gen Leadership Summit, a transformative event for those serving in youth, young adult, and children's ministry. Joe shares his journey in Next Gen ministry, reflecting on the challenges and joys of discipling the next generation. He and Dean explore the importance of connection and collaboration among Next Gen workers and how the Summit is designed to equip, encourage, and strengthen ministry leaders across the EPC. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just stepping into Next Gen ministry, this episode is full of insights and encouragement. You can sign up for the Next Gen Leadership Summit [here], and learn more or connect with Joe Stroup at https://graystonepc.org/.

In this episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver sits down with David Pleuss to discuss the vital role small churches play in their local communities. They explore the importance of churches facing outward rather than inward, embracing their unique calling to be a light in their neighborhoods. David shares practical ways churches can engage their communities, even when resources are limited, and how collaboration with other churches and the presbytery can create a greater impact. Whether you're part of a small church looking for new ways to serve or simply passionate about the power of local outreach, this episode offers wisdom and encouragement for being the hands and feet of Christ in your community.

In this episode of In All Things, Dean sits down with Bill Heming, a pastor with extensive experience shepherding small churches. Having led three different congregations, Bill offers a wealth of insight into the unique challenges and opportunities that come with small church ministry. Throughout the conversation, Bill emphasizes that no two small churches are alike—each one carries its own distinct personality, gifts, and calling. He and Dean explore the importance of flexibility in small church ministry, the power of focusing on just a few things and doing them well, and how small congregations can play a vital role in community revitalization and outreach. Additionally, they discuss the significance of disability ministries within the church. If you're interested in learning more about disability ministry, check out these EPC-endorsed organizations: Key Ministry King's Table Ministries Whether you're a small church pastor, a leader, or simply someone who cares about the future of small churches, this episode will encourage and inspire you to lean into the strengths God has given your congregation.

In this episode of In All Things, Dean sits down with Steve Burton to discuss his journey to Selma, Alabama, and the profound lessons he has learned in ministry along the way. Steve shares how he and his church have sought to engage with their community, not just as a place of worship but as an active presence responding to the unique needs of their neighbors. Together, Dean and Steve explore the challenges and joys of cross-cultural ministry, the importance of truly listening to a community's needs, and how small churches can make a lasting impact by embracing where God has placed them. Steve's story is one of faithfulness, humility, and a deep commitment to the gospel in action. Tune in for a conversation that will encourage and challenge you to see your community with fresh eyes and to consider how your church can be a light in the place God has called you to serve. To learn more about Cornerstone Presbyterian Church, click here.

In this episode of In All Things, Bill and Julia Crawford join Dean to share their journey of ministry in a small church context. They discuss how God's definition of success often looks different from our own, the deep importance of community and relationships, and the unique joys that come from long-term ministry in a small church context. For anyone serving in a small church – or simply wondering how God works powerfully in smaller congregations – this episode offers encouragement, wisdom, and a fresh perspective on faithful ministry. Learn more about Bill and Julia's church here.

In the first episode of our new Small Churches series, host Dean Weaver sits down with Suzanne Zampella, a seasoned transitional pastor and advocate for small church ministry. Suzanne shares her wealth of experience, offering insights into the unique challenges small churches face, including limited resources and maintaining healthy congregational dynamics. The conversation explores the vital role of community engagement and mission in the life of a small church, emphasizing how these congregations can make a significant impact despite their size. Suzanne also unpacks the concept of transitional ministry, explaining how it serves as a crucial tool for churches navigating periods of change. For more information or to connect with Suzanne, you can reach her through her church's website: http://fpcdexter.org/ Tune in to this inspiring conversation and discover how God is at work in small but mighty ways through His church!

In the final episode of our Pastor Care series, Dean Weaver sits down with Rev. David Henderson to explore the transformative power of sabbaticals in the life of a pastor and their congregation. Together, they unpack the biblical foundation for sabbaticals, rooted in the concept of Shabbat, emphasizing that a sabbatical is far more than just an extended vacation—it's a sacred time to cease, listen, and engage deeply with the Lord. David shares insights on how a well-planned sabbatical can revitalize a pastor's mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, creating space for renewal and vision. He also discusses the ripple effects sabbaticals can have on a congregation, fostering growth, resilience, and an opportunity for shared leadership. Whether you're a church leader, a member of a congregation, or simply curious about how rest and renewal impact ministry, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on the importance of creating rhythms of rest in the life of the Church. Resources Mentioned: Tranquility: Cultivating a Quiet Soul in a Busy World by David Henderson Connect with David at covenantepc.org to listen to his sermon archives or to find contact information.

In this episode of In All Things, we sit down with Sean Carroll, Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Ward Church, to explore the transformative power of spiritual formation in ministry. Sean shares his insights on what spiritual formation truly is and why it's essential for every believer, especially pastors. From the tools that guide us in deepening our relationship with Christ to the inspirations that have shaped Sean's own journey, this conversation is both practical and profoundly encouraging. Sean also delves into the unique challenges pastors face in cultivating their own spiritual health while leading others. With a focus on humility, joy, and dependence on God, he offers wisdom for navigating obstacles and staying rooted in the Gospel. Whether you're a pastor, ministry leader, or simply someone seeking a richer spiritual life, this episode is full of guidance and encouragement. If you'd like to connect with Sean, you can reach him at sean.carroll@ward.church. Tune in to this thoughtful discussion and discover how embracing spiritual formation can lead to a life of greater humility, joy, and purpose!

In the second episode of our Family Care series, we're diving into the unique dynamics of marriage and ministry with Rob and Kim Hock. Rob, the Senior Pastor at Southport Presbyterian Church, and Kim, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a member of the EPC's Interim Committee on Domestic Abuse, share their heartfelt story of 29 years of marriage intertwined with a life of ministry. Together, Rob and Kim explore how their journey has shaped them both as individuals and as partners. They offer practical insights into the importance of communication and mutual support in navigating the joys and challenges of ministry life. From balancing personal and professional roles to relying on God's grace in difficult seasons, this episode is filled with wisdom and encouragement for couples walking a similar path. Whether you're in ministry, married to someone who is, or simply seeking ways to strengthen your own relationships, Rob and Kim's candid conversation will inspire and uplift you!

In this first episode of In All Things for 2025, we kick off a new series on Pastor Care with a conversation between Dean Weaver and Earla Bethel, ruling elder of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in Nassau, Bahamas. Earla, a natural encourager with a deep gift for hospitality, shares her wisdom on how church sessions can care well for their pastors and teaching elders. Drawing from Scripture, Earla unpacks the biblical foundation for pastoral care, emphasizing the importance of love, encouragement, and practical support. With stories from her own life and leadership, she inspires and equips church leaders to minister to their pastors with intentionality and grace. Earla also offers practical tips for sessions, from fostering open communication to creating environments where pastors feel seen, valued, and spiritually refreshed. Her unique perspective, shaped by decades of service and her deep commitment to God's Word, is a rich source of encouragement for anyone seeking to bless the shepherds who guide their congregations. Join us for this insightful and inspiring conversation to discover how hospitality, prayer, and biblical principles can transform the way we care for the pastors God has placed in our midst.

In this special New Year's episode of In All Things, Assistant Stated Clerk Michael Davis reflects on the past year and looks ahead with hope and faith. Drawing from Isaiah 43:18-19, Michael reminds us to “forget the former things” and focus on the new work God is doing in our midst. Through heartfelt reflections on God's faithfulness in 2024, Michael explores the transformative power of prayer and offers practical tips to deepen your prayer life in 2025. Whether you're an individual seeking to grow spiritually or a church leader planning for the year ahead, this episode is filled with encouragement and actionable insights. As we step into 2025, Michael calls the denomination to move forward with confidence, trusting in God's promises and seeking His guidance for what lies ahead. Join us for this uplifting and inspiring conversation to start the year off with renewed hope and purpose. Happy New Year from all of us at In All Things!

In this special Christmas episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver reflects on the often-overlooked role of Joseph in the nativity story, drawing inspiration from Luke 2:1-7. Through a heartfelt devotional, Dean unpacks Joseph's quiet humility, steadfast obedience, and unwavering faith as he carried out God's plan without seeking recognition or reward.

In this episode, Assistant Stated Clerk Michael Davis steps in as guest host to chat with Saul and Jessie Huber, EPC's Coordinators of Mobilization. With humor and heartfelt conversation, this trio of friends dives into the vital role of mobilizers, the importance of cultivating a call to missions in younger generations, and the practical steps missionaries take to get started. Along the way, they share a powerful missionary testimonial and reflect on the challenges of the mission process. This episode, equal parts insightful and entertaining, is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the Great Commission and global movement.

In this special episode, Gabriel de Guia, Executive Director of EPC World Outreach, steps in as guest host to have a meaningful conversation with Alan Trafford, Chairman of the EPC Fraternal Relations Committee. Together, they explore the powerful collaboration between Fraternal Relations and the Global Movement, showcasing how these initiatives work hand in hand to advance the gospel worldwide. 

Join Assistant Stated Clerk Michael Davis this holiday weekend as he explores the practical ways to minister Christ's love with our families and loved ones. In this episode, we are challenged to bring peace, joy and glory to God through our speech, songs, and actions as we share space with one another in deep gratitude.  

In this episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver sits down with Nick and Amanda, global workers of the EPC, to explore the joys and challenges of following God's call. Nick and Amanda share candidly about their doubts, struggles, and how their home church and presbytery have been vital in their journey. They remind us that missionaries aren't “super Christians” but ordinary people relying on an extraordinary God. Through tough seasons, they've discovered the gentle and faithful character of God, who sustains their family and work.   Join us as we unpack what it means to live out the gospel in the everyday and embrace God's call with authenticity and trust.

Gianna Lazzaro, EPC's Communications Associate, changes things up as she interviews EPC Stated Clerk Dean Weaver to talk about the devastation of Hurricane Helene and how the EPC is ministering and caring for those in need.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Johnny Long, Director of Operations of World Outreach.  Dean and Johnny talk about the preparation that has gone into preparing our global workers and denomination for the next steps of World Outreach.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Dr. Sean Brubaker, pastor of Calvin Presbyterian Church, to talk about how they used extraordinary circumstances to reflect the community around them.  Sean shares how this has made them more effective in ministering to their surrounding neighborhood.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Stefan Bomberger , pastor of Manoa Community Church to talk about what the Lord is doing at Manoa as they experience a dramatic increase in people coming to faith in Christ and baptisms. Stefan also shares very practical advice he has learned around the ideas of children's ministry, evangelism and leadership to lead a church to life found in the Gospel.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Rosemary Lukens, the 42nd Moderator of the EPC General Assembly,  Bill Rasch, National Director of Transitional Pastor Training, and Bob Stauffer, National Director of Church Health to discuss the pastor shortage crisis of our day and how the EPC has responded.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes two church planters, Sean Boone and Eric Stiller, who both planted churches in the St. Louis area. Boone shares his experience of planting The Bridge North County in Ferguson while Eric Stiller talks about his story of planting Central West End Church in another section of the city.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes South Regional Church Planting Director, Richard Rieves, to talk about trends in the culture and how church planting remains a unique solution to reaching the world with the Gospel.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes pastor Dr. Mike Moses to talk about reaching the unchurched and the importance of church planting in that process. Mike also gives practical self-assessment questions for possible future church planters to ask as they engage with the idea of whether the Lord might be calling them to church planting. Mike is the founding and lead pastor of the Lake Forest Family of Churches.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Elizabeth Gibson of the Northampton Church Planting Network, as they talk all things church planting from assessments to information that will help those wrestling with a possible call to church planting.    You can connect with Elizabeth at elizabethgibson@nhcpn.org.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Justin Garrett, church planter and pastor at Athens KC. In this episode, Justin shares his heart and story the story behind planting a church in Kansas City, Missouri, while giving encouragement and practical advice to ministry leaders.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes the EPC's National Director of Church Planting, Dr. Tom Ricks, for an authentic discussion on church planting. Many church plants don't make it and Tom and Dean discuss the lessons we can learn from these past attempts.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Zach Hopkins a second time to finish their conversation from last week. Zach is pastor of Edgington Evangelical Presbyterian Church and joins Dean to talk about practical ways to implement the ordinary means of grace and catechisms into the discipleship ministries of the local church.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes Zach Hopkins, pastor of Edgington Evangelical Presbyterian Church, who joins the podcast today to help younger pastors think through how to lead church leaders well.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes pastor Betsy Rumer, who has served in a number of roles within EPC churches, in her Presbytery and at the General Assembly level.  Betsy joins the podcast today to help pastors ask important questions about their spiritual, physical and emotional health.   Show Notes: On today's podcast Betsy references another podcast, Becoming New with John Ortberg, work by Brene Brown, Emotionally Healthy and Spirituality and Day by Day by Pete Scazzero.

Ritchey Cable, Digital Content Lead of the Office of the General Assembly, welcomes again pastor and Gulf South Presbytery Facilitator, Bob Vincent, for a second episode. Bob shares the story of a personal crisis that unexpectedly changed his course of ministry. Bob's redeeming story can both warn pastors of dangerous situations, but also encourage others who might be struggling in ministry. You can connect with Bob at bob@rbvincent.com and read some of his articles and letters at www.rbvincent.com. 

Ritchey Cable, Digital Content Lead of the Office of the General Assembly, welcomes pastor and Gulf South Presbytery Facilitator, Bob Vincent. Bob opens up for other pastors and church leaders about a personal crisis in his own life that occurred during his 40 years pastoring at a local church.  Bob's situation is not unlike the experience of other pastors as they seek to carry out meaningful ministry.  Bob's redeeming story can both warn pastors of dangerous situations, but also encourage others who might be struggling in ministry.

Michael Davis, EPC Assistant Stated Clerk, welcomes Roy Yanke of PIR Ministries, in this equipping episode of Season 3 of In All Things.  Roy sounds the warning bell for pastors everywhere as he shares how the dynamics of pastoral ministry can often lead to personal failures. Roy shares his own story and offers helpful insight to move forward in healthy ways.

Michael Davis, EPC Assistant Stated Clerk, welcomes pastor, Jim Farrell, to kick off season 3 of In All Things. Jim gives insight into what he has learned through decades of pastoral ministry experience. If you have questions about transitional pastoring or are seeking to become an “effective biblical leader” you can connect with Jim HERE.

Ritchey Cable, Digital Content Lead of the Office of the General Assembly, gives a brief glimpse into the new upcoming season of In All Things that begins next week!

Assistant Stated Clerk and Chief Collaborative Officer of the EPC, Michael Davis, gives a final, brief recap of the 44th General Assembly at Hope Church in Memphis, Tennessee.  

In this special episode, we interview a number of people during the 44th General Assembly meeting at Hope Church in Memphis.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes back five guests for the second week of this two-part series preparing us for the 44th General Assembly.  Those participating in the podcast are upcoming moderator, Victor Jones, EPC Chief Parliamentarian, Bob Garment, Hannah Attaway of Hope Church, and two individuals delivering GA messages, pastors Tim Johnson and Corrina Gambrell. In this episode, the panel discusses some of the issues and conversations we will be having at GA this year.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes five guests this week for a two-part series preparing us for the 44th General Assembly.  Those participating in this podcast are upcoming moderator, Victor Jones, EPC Chief Parliamentarian, Bob Garment, Hannah Attaway of Hope Church, and two individuals delivering GA messages, pastors Tim Johnson and Corrina Gambrell. This is part one of the two part series.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes EPC pastor, Marcos Ortega, who will be preaching on Tuesday night at the 44th General Assembly.  Dean and Marcos discuss the meaningful nature of this worship and commissioning service. Marcos also served on the committee forming the Pastoral Letter of Racial Lament and Hope, and Marcos reflects on the process of creating the letter, and the role the Westminster Standards played in creating that document.

Dean Weaver, EPC Stated Clerk, welcomes church planter, transitional pastor, and outgoing moderator, Joe Kim.  Dean and Joe reflect on last year's brush with a tornado, and discuss important issues coming up at the 44th General Assembly.