Does the Church really care? Join Movement West Michigan for bi-monthly conversations with local Christian leaders who are actively serving the Holland/Zeeland area through the love of Christ -- together. Real needs are met with genuine compassion when the Body of Christ is united to serve. Tune in to wrestle with evidence of true brokenness in our world, discover God's goodness at work, and celebrate with us that the Church is making a difference as we spread Christ's Hope to our local community.
CarePortal is a connecting technology that drives action for local children and families in crisis. Tune in to hear how this tool has opened doors for churches and agencies to serve families across the Holland/Zeeland area! Rebecca Velthouse from Bethany Christian Services and Pastor Jonathan Wilwerding from Ventura Baptist Church share how God has expanded their views of the Kingdom through CarePortal collaboration.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. Thanks for joining us!
What is the next generation looking for in congregational worship? Is it possible for multigenerational worship to foster belonging for all? Join us to hear Alex Cross from Christ Memorial Church and Dr. Jim DeBoer from Hope College's Awakening summer program unpack the trends and desires they see in high school worship leaders today.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. Thanks for joining us!
How is home repair linked to discipleship? Discover how Benjamin Rodgers from Solid Rock Ministries and Shari Garcia from Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity are putting their faith into action by coming alongside those in need of house maintenance support. God is showing up to provide for and through these faithful Christian leaders in our community!
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. Thanks for joining us!
How does trusting God impact the way you do business? Tune in to hear how Ben & Joy Robinson from Robinson's Popcorn and Valerie Williams from Quality HR Solutions, LLC are incorporating their faith into every day work spaces. Discover how business strategy, customer service, and future dreams often shift when your priority is following Christ in serving "people over profit."
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. This month, we also recognize the start of International Week of Prayer for Christian Unity (Jan 18-25) with a few special prayer invitations. We hope these episodes both encourage you and inspire you to join other Christian leaders in unified prayer -- even around the world!
How does pastoring a parish in the city center differ from a rural context? Join us to hear from Pastor Winfred Burns, II from Maple Ave Ministries and Pastor Jessica Rivera-Walker from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church to unpack how crafting sermons, community involvement, and pastoral hopes for the future are shaped by church geography.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage you and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
Christmas is coming! How can Christian leaders support families who want to give meaningful gifts but don't have the extra in their budgets? Tune in for our final interview of 2023 to learn how Melanie Weaver from The Salvation Army and Stacie Hoey from Fellowship Reformed Church are navigating distinct Christmas assistance programs with dignity and grace.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare, and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage you and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
What happens when three churches that split off one another learn how to collaborate? Tune in to hear Rev. Dr. Miriam Barnes from Second Reformed Zeeland, Angie Walker from First Reformed Zeeland, and Stacy VanSingel from Faith Reformed Zeeland share how collaborative children's ministry efforts have helped redeem division from over 100 years ago. Each church is still distinct, but also more connected to what God is doing in the community at large in Zeeland.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and the local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
Can every church be a welcoming space for people of all abilities? Join us as we discuss the challenges of inclusive ministry practices within local congregations. Victoria White from With Ministries and Pastor Joshua Vander Klok from Resurrection Life Church in Holland wrestle with the importance of proactive hospitality and the reality of church life. Tune in to learn about why inclusive worship matters and ideas on how to graciously navigate individual needs in our church communities.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and the local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
What is the time and place for church digital connections? Can relationships still be at the center through virtual connection? Tune in to a lively discussion with Aaron VanDerVeen from Harderwyk CRC and Mike Van Drie from Jesus Gathering to hear differing perspectives on how to use digital tools for discipleship today.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and the local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
What do 4 churches in Holland Heights have in common? A heart for the neighborhood. 20 years ago, Heights of Hope was established by local churches to build relationships with neighbors. Tune in to hear Mandy Bullers-Hutcheson from Heights of Hope and Julie Philips from Holland Heights CRC share how tutoring, a Christmas store, mentors, “Maxwell Monday,” and even a fun annual 5K are now transforming lives in the neighborhood. Why? Because it's all about relationships.
Prayer unites us, even when we are apart. Join us on this rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare and social service needs of Holland/Zeeland. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and the local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
How can you pray for the Holland/Zeeland area? Join us on this new rhythm of monthly "12 Ways to Pray" episodes that highlight prayer requests for local churches along with business, education, government, healthcare and social service needs of our community. Each month, we will P (pause), R (reflect), A (ask), and Y (yield) with scripture, liturgy, and the local news in mind. We hope these episodes both encourage and inspire you to join other local Christian leaders in unified prayer!
What does it mean to come alongside each other in the midst of chaos? Join us to hear the story of how 70x7 Life Recovery and Ridge Point Community Church partner together to foster meaning, value, and purpose (MVP) for all willing to invest in genuine relationship. Regular gatherings for returning citizens, families of those who have been incarcerated, and the local Body of Christ is just one of the ways 70x7 is building bridges into true community. Listen to hear how the unconditional love of Jesus is changing lives through this partnership!
Kory & Laura are back! We move beyond the metaphors to explain the practical networks, tools, and initiatives of Movement West Michigan in the Holland/Zeeland area. Join us to learn about ways this network of Christian leaders is investing in flourishing families, thriving schools, and access to resources. You'll hear stories of impact and unique ways you can get involved with what God is doing in our community!
We're switching it up this month with a deep dive into the world of your hosts: Kory & Laura! What is Movement West Michigan anyway? Join us to step back into the big picture of why this network of Christian leaders exists. Rooted in Christ's prayer for unity in John 17, we focus on helping the Church live into the Great Compassion (Mt 25:31-46), Great Commission (Mt 28:18-20) and the Great Commandment (Mt 22:37-39) so that all may flourish in our community. In this first half of the conversation, we'll unpack metaphors, key values, and the scriptural basis for why we need such a mechanism for connection in the Body of Christ.
How do you bring together two cultures of how we "do church?" Join us for the second part of our conversation with Pastor Dave Roberts from Restoration Church and Pastor Jon Bosma from Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Zeeland, MI. Shared Bible studies, worship space, and summer outreach has opened congregants' eyes to multiple ways to follow Jesus faithfully. Tune in to hear the real joys and challenges along the way.
Two pastors. Two churches. One building. One Kingdom. Join us to hear how Pastor Dave Roberts from Restoration Church and Pastor Jon Bosma from Bethel Christian Reformed Church in Zeeland are collaborating together in ministry. Both churches decided to go beyond a "building rental contract" relationship to more intentionally collaborate in serving the community and growing together as disciples. Listen to this first half of our conversastion to find out how God shows up when we are willing to engage in uncomfortable risks for the Kingdom.
How can a church use a kitchen to serve? Invite kids to learn how to cook! Join us for the part 2 of our conversation with Pastor Eric Barnes from Second Reformed Church and Executive Director Jed Mulder from The Bridge Youth Center to learn about their collaborative cooking classes on Friday afternoons. Youth are learning healthy cooking tips alongside trusted mentors and serving their families at home! Now that's edible grace.
How has youth ministry shifted in the past decade? Tune in to hear Pastor Eric Barnes from Second Reformed Church and Executive Director Jed Mulder from The Bridge Youth Center reflect on the importance of building trusted relationships with youth -- especially those who have no church home. Discipleship at The Bridge in Zeeland is centered on breaking stigmas and building a safe, loving community to show the love of Jesus Christ.
How can the Church care for those who struggle with mental health? Therapist Dr. Michael Brashears, Executive Director Jill Miskelley along with Parish Nurse Pat Whittaker from Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church unpack the Be Better Holland's educational series for local churches in the second half of our conversation. Tune in to hear the challenges of forgiveness, the difference between symptoms and actual illness, and how love neighbors without mental health professional training.
And what happens between therapy appointments? Be Better Holland exists to guide family & friend support systems through the mental health needs of loved ones. Join us to hear how Executive Director Jill Miskelley, Psychologist Dr. Michael Brashears, and Parish Nurse Pat Whitaker from Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Parish partnered together to offer consultation and education to break stigmas around mental health needs.
Oops! We missed the first half of this conversation back in November. But It's not too late to hear about National Good Neighbor Day! Pastor David VanOpstall from Christ Memorial Church and 3-sixty Executive Director Jake Norris joined us last November to share about how 4 local churches and 1 non-profit collaborated to celebrate this national holiday in the Montello Park neighborhood with a fun block party. Tune in to this first part of the series to consider what it means to be a good neighbor, how Jesus calls us to care, and the role of the Church in loving our neighbors well.
Life is full. But student mentors are needed! Join us for the second half of our conversation with Kids Hope USA President Karen Pearson and Service Manager Thom Bartels from Extol, Inc to learn about a pilot program partnership with businesses that offers a creative solution. When employers partner with Kids Hope USA, Christ followers are invited to take 1 hour out of their work week to invest in a student. Tune in to hear the joys and challenges of this experiment for the Church at large.
Why be a mentor? Join us in celebrating National Mentoring Month with our January guests: Kids Hope USA President Karen Pearson and Extol, Inc. Service Manager Thom Bartels. We'll unpack the power of consistent mentor relationships, explore a pilot business-church-school partnership, and discuss how to shine Christ's light with long term impact in mind.
Christmas is all about celebrating "God with us" through the gift of Jesus. What does it look like to live out an embodied witness of this story in our neighborhoods? Pastor David VanOpstall from Christ Memorial Church and 3-sixty Executive Director Jake Norris return for this second half of our conversation about 4 local churches and 1 non-profit investing collaboratively in their Montello Park neighborhood in Holland, MI. Join us in celebrating the gift of Jesus' incarnation as we share the joys and challenges of building trust with our neighbors -- together.
Who is serving together at Refresh: Hygiene & Hope every week? Tune in to hear about the multiple churches and local agencies that continue to invest in this local outreach opportunity with those who are experiencing homelessness in the Holland area. Rev. LuAnne Stanley Hook from First United Methodist Church and Program Director Olivia Campbell from Community Action House also discuss how to navigate stigmas and assumptions about homelessness. Listen to hear ways you could get involved and their dreams about possibilities for expansion in the future.
What does homelessness look like? Tune in with Rev. LuAnne Stanley Hook from First United Methodist Church and Program Director Olivia Campbell from Community Action House to learn about the "chosen family" at Refresh: Hygiene & Hope. This collaborative program offers hot meals, showers, hair cuts, laundry, clothing, and case management services to neighbors experiencing homelessness in the Holland area. Listen to this first half of our conversation to unpack how Refresh fosters a culture of dignified mutuality for all.
How can your church be involved with Circles? What does it look like to grow in depth of relationship rather than width of programmatic ministry? Tune in for the second half of our conversation with Circles Director Lotefa Bartlett de Villareal and Pastor Dan Carter from Calvary on 8th Church for a dynamic conversation about the opportunities to show up in mutual ways...and see real change across our community.
Tune in for our first bonus episode of "Kids Care" to hear how three Holland middle school students are putting their love for Jesus into action! Charlie, Morgan, and Gibson started the Mac n Cheese Club to collect donated boxes of their favorite food to deliver to local food pantries. What started small has grown exponentially through the support of local partners such as Joy99, Community Action House, Hand 2 Hand, and Gateway Mission. Check out their website to learn more about ways to donate or even join them for their 5K race on October 22nd! https://www.macandcheeseforjesusplease.com/home
What questions should churches be asking when engaging in outreach? Tune in to hear Lotefa Bartlett de Villareal from Good Samaritan Ministries and Pastor Dan Carter from Calvary on 8th unpack the ways Circles builds transformative relationships in community. Program participants of all income levels are invited to break down "us vs. them culture" through making goals with shared accountability. In this first episode, discover how everyone benefits through mutual "social capital" when committed to showing up with honesty and grace.
Jump back in with Central Wesleyan Church Kids Hope USA Director Patty Jones and Providence Church Director of Children's Ministries Julie Leeson to learn about the joys and struggles of collaboration. Representing churches serving alongside the Michigan Department of Education Meet Up & Eat Up summer meal program, Julie & Patty recognize the beauty of "moving in the same direction" together. Tune in to hear ways to get involved with apartment outreach in your own neighborhood!
"There's no reason for us to recreate the wheel...this is a system that people trust." -- Central Wesleyan Church Kids Hope USA Director Patty Jones and Providence Church Director of Children's Ministries Julie Leeson discovered a new way to do collaborative outreach this summer. Partnering with the Michigan Department of Education Meet Up & Eat Up summer meal program and several other community agencies, these churches provided relational programming for the children and families of Harbor Village Apartments every Tuesday & Thursday. Tune in to hear how God showed up as volunteers built true community by listening well...right down the street from their church buildings.
What does it mean to be a carrier -- rather than "owner" -- of the gospel? How does it feel to be black in the Holland/Zeeland area? Where do black students turn to find mentors and role models in our community? Part 2 of our conversation with Henry Cherry from I Am Academy and Laura Baer from Third Reformed Church centers on facing hard questions with courageous faith. Listen to hear how a nonprofit and church are collaborating together to make our community a more hospitable space for all.
Why do we celebrate Juneteenth? How is this new national holiday connected to the hope we have in Jesus Christ? What does it mean to show all students of all skin tones that they are worthy of "being seen and invested in?" Join us as we listen to Henry Cherry from I Am Academy and Laura Baer from Third Reformed Church in Holland share about their collaborative partnership across the Holland/Zeeland area. Churches are stepping up to build intentional relationships -- and neighborhoods are being changed.
Dig a little deeper into how school partnerships with churches, non-profits and businesses lead to both joys and challenges in this part 2 of our July series. OCSN Community School Coordinator Ashley Golin and First Reformed Church Kids Hope USA Director Nancy Helder join us again to share creative ways they incorporated community partners in the midst of COVID challenges and building transitions. Listen to hear how your church or organization could join and invest in a local school -- even when it gets hard. Want to get involved? Email Ashley Golin (agolin@hollandpublicschools.org) to explore supporting HLA specifically or visit www.oaisd.org/ottawa-community-schools-network/contact-us/ to connect with the coordinator at a school near to you! Also, feel free to call First Reformed Church's office (616.392.8085) to learn about serving as a Kids Hope USA Mentor at HLA.
How can churches support local schools in a holistic way? Tune in to learn about a unique school partnership model via a conversation with Ashley Golin, OCSN Coordinator at Holland Language Academy, and Nancy Helder, Kids Hope USA Director at First Reformed Church in Holland. This school-centric approach focuses on listening to needs before jumping to respond. And the impact is shaping school-community partnerships in significant ways. Enjoy!
How does God show up when we work together? Doors of Hope Executive Director Terri Caldwell and Hope Homes Coordinator Scott Sterenberg continue the conversation with us about the power of collaboration with the Hope Homes initiative. Tune in to hear how multiple churches are stepping up to increase access to stable housing in our community and how God continues to provide in mysterious ways.
This month, we are honored to hear from Doors of Hope Executive Director Terri Caldwell and Hope Homes Coordinator Scott Sterenberg about their Hope Homes initiative. Listen to this first half of the conversation to learn about the unique purpose of Hope Homes and unpack some of the barriers to flourishing in our community. We hope you are encouraged by how several churches are helping families in need of stable housing and hope for the future through Hope Homes. (That's a lot of hope!!)
At least 15 families from Afghanistan have resettled in the Holland/Zeeland area since January 2022. Churches and non-profit organizations across the community have stepped up to offer transportation, housing, education, and genuine friendship support to our new neighbors. Join us as we continue our conversation from Episode 1 with co-sponsor coordinators Rev. Kent Fry from the Holland Rotary Club and David Beattie from Central Park Reformed Church. We'll dive into joys and challenges of working together collaboratively on this rewarding journey of cross-cultural sponsorship.
At least 15 families from Afghanistan have resettled in the Holland/Zeeland area since January 2022. Churches and non-profit organizations across the community have stepped up to offer transportation, housing, education, and genuine friendship support to our new neighbors. Join us as we chat with co-sponsor coordinators Rev. Kent Fry from the Holland Rotary Club and David Beattie from Central Park Reformed Church to learn about their cross-cultural challenges and celebrate ways God shows up when we serve together.
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