Ohio for Jesus

In this episode of the Ohio for Jesus podcast, host Tara Zimmer interviews Dante Thomas, lead pastor of Elevation City Church, about innovative ways to engage the community, particularly through serving individuals with disabilities. Dante shares the journey of transforming a church parsonage into a group home, the challenges faced, and the positive impact on both the community and the church's growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creativity in ministry, the financial sustainability of serving others, and the encouragement for pastors to remain faithful during difficult times.TakeawaysEngaging the community is essential for church multiplication.Innovative solutions can arise from challenges faced by the church.Transforming spaces can lead to significant community service opportunities.Community response to church initiatives can enhance growth.Financial sustainability can be achieved through service-oriented projects.Pastors should remain faithful during challenging times for revitalization.Collaboration with family and community can lead to impactful ministry.Serving those with disabilities can fulfill a vital need in the community.Tangible results from ministry efforts can inspire congregational support.Fresh vision and perspective can lead to new opportunities for ministryConnect with the Ohio Ministry Network:Web: ohioministry.net and ohioforjesus.comInstagram: instagram.com/ohioministrynetworkFacebook: facebook.com/OhioMinistryNetwork/

In this episode, host Tara Zimmer sits down with Sarah Reed, Community Integration Pastor at Clearview Church in Lorain County, Ohio. Together, they explore what it truly means to engage the community—not with assumptions, but with intentionality and humility.Sarah shares how her church has built a powerful, ongoing partnership with Lorain County Children's Services, offering practical, consistent support to children, caseworkers, and families involved in the foster care system.From Easter baskets and hygiene kits to furniture donations, warehouse outreach, and handwritten cards, this episode is packed with real stories and actionable inspiration for churches looking to make an authentic impact right where they are.“We didn't create a need; we asked what the need was.” (03:20)The power of saying “yes” to the county—and letting God take care of the rest (08:20)What happens when a 5-year-old's only possession is a red toothbrush in a donated backpack (18:08)How Clearview Church engages introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between (27:48)The shift from attractional to missional ministry—and why it's needed now (24:20)Why community ministry is not about spotlight moments (22:48)Encouragement for leaders: “Start small. Stay faithful. Let God grow it.” (31:08)Ask before you act: Let those in need define the need.Every role matters: From writing cards to packing food, the entire church can serve.Partnership over platform: You don't need to be in the spotlight to make an impact.Ministry is long-term: Faithfulness over time builds trust, favor, and fruit.Connect with Sarah Reed directly: sruthreed@gmail.comLearn more about foster care ministry through Father's Heart with Paris Yanno for resources and support. fathersheartohio.com Whether you're a lead pastor, ministry leader, or someone with a heart to serve, this episode will encourage you to rethink what community impact can look like—and how your church can be part of a story that transforms lives.Follow the Ohio for Jesus Podcast for more inspiring stories, practical tools, and kingdom-minded conversations.Connect with the Ohio Ministry Network:Web: ohioministry.net and ohioforjesus.comInstagram: instagram.com/ohioministrynetworkFacebook: facebook.com/OhioMinistryNetwork/

Connect with the Ohio Ministry Network: Web: ohioministry.net and ohioforjesus.com Instagram: instagram.com/ohioministrynetwork Facebook:facebook.com/OhioMinistryNetwork/ Connect with Kristin and Way to Battle Buy Her Book Here: Click Here to buy your copy today! Web: https://waytobattle.com About Kristin S. Martin Our world was turned upside down when our son, Brady, was diagnosed with an extremely rare Leukemia mutation in June 2021.  We travel to schools, churches, and other organizations to speak about our journey and how to find hope and joy in the midst of the most impossible places. Our mission is to spread the message that “no one battles alone” and to help bring awareness to the battles that might be unseen in the world around us.  We continue to pray for the Lord to use this battle for good and for our lives to be transformed as well. We hope to inspire others through our stories and service as we walk through this dark and winding journey. “You have armed me with strength for the battle…” Psalm 18:39 Brady was diagnosed with High Risk Pre B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia on June 10, 2021.  Two weeks later the doctors discovered he had an extremely rare “Philadelphia Chromosome-Like” mutation. In fact, he is only the 65th person in the world to have been found with this particular mutation. If you know anything about pediatric cancer, then you know that 1 in 5 children won't survive it. Those that do survive are very likely to face extremely hard things even after their cancer has been beaten.  Eight months after a life-saving bone marrow transplant thanks to his twin brother, Blake, Brady's cancer returned. We were devastated and heartbroken. His transplant had failed and the options and outlook were bleak. But his story wasn't over. Thankfully, Brady was accepted into a clinical trial at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. There he received his new, warriors t-cells in December of 2022 as patient number 71 of the HuCart Clinical Trial. Today, Brady is coming up on two years CANCER FREE.  The Lord has shown us an incredible miracle through our son's battle and the pain we have walked through birthed a mission within us.

Executive presbyters, TJ Wolfe & Chad Gilligan sit down to talk with Superintendent John Wootton to hear a personal update on his health journey. Thank you for your continued prayers of healing. We serve a God of miracles, and we are trusting for nothing less.

At Network Conference 2024, Network Operations Director, Amy Parsell, and Assistant Church Multiplication Director, Tom Baxter, shared about tensegrity in relation to Ohio for Jesus and the Every Disciplines.

During Network Conference 2024, Pastor Ken DeChant from Journey Church in Fremont, Ohio, shared how his church has been talking about Ephesians 4 and 5 Fold Ministry.

During Network Conference 2024 we had several value added sessions to encourage ministers and leaders in specific areas. One of them was a presentation by Dr. E Scott Martin, the former National Chi Alpha Director. He shared how to incorporate the principles of relational and biblical discipleship, that are so effective for our Chi Alpha missionaries, into our local church context

Our Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno, shared some encouraging information and opportunities for how everyone can be a part of seeing the Church multiply across Ohio.

Dr. Robert Crosby joined us at Network Conferene 2024 in Dublin, Ohio to share about the importance of Soul Care. You can find the resources mentioned an access the slides to download at ohioministry.net/NCValueAdded24

In this episode, Communications Director, Tara Zimmer has a zoom interview with Will Davis who is the Executive Director of Operations. They elaborate on the different resources that Heartland Conference Retreat Center has to offer. Enjoy this interview that was recorded this past fall because you do not want to miss it! Resources: https://www.heartlandretreat.com/

In this episode, Communications Director Tara Zimmer sits down with Kids Ministry Director Meghan Boyle, and they talk about Ohio KidMin and the resources that are available for pastors and leaders across the state. This is an episode that you do not want to miss! Resources: Website: https://www.ohiokidmin.com/ KidMin in a Box: https://www.ohiokidmin.com/kmib BGMC: https://www.ohiokidmin.com/bgmc JBQ: https://www.ohiokidmin.com/jbq Discipleship Roundtable: https://kidmin.ag.org/ Email Ohio KidMin: okm@ohioministry.net Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OhioKidMin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohiokidmin/

At your convenience, please take a moment and listen to this Christmas Greeting from Network Superintendent John Wootton and the Ohio Ministry Network Resource Center Directors. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy this Thanksgiving greeting from Ohio Ministry Network Superintendent John Wootton.

Join Ashley Hadinger, Greater Columbus West Area Presbyter, in reading through and praying with our Every Disciplines. This episode's focus is Missions Partnership and talks about missions giving to every generation.

In this episode, Tara Zimmer, Communications Director, sits down with Mandy Groot, Ohio Network of Women Ministers Director, and discusses women in ministry. They talk about the history of the Network of Women Ministers within the Assemblies of God and how to collaborate with other men and women ministers. This is an excellent episode to learn about the fantastic resources the Network of Women Ministers offers to better support women in ministry. So, be sure to listen in because there are resources that you want to take advantage of! Resources: Website: https://www.ohionwm.com/ Influence Magazine Article, How to Talk About Women in Ministry: https://influencemagazine.com/en/Practice/Talking-About-Women-in-Ministry

In this new segment of the Ohio for Jesus Podcast, join Tara Zimmer as she reads through one of our Every Disciplines and then has a moment of prayer about being a mentor and a mentee to someone.

In this episode, Amy Parsell, Operations and Finance Director, sits down and elaborates about Ohio for Jesus and the Every Disciplines. She talks about how these disciplines play into the bigger picture of the Ohio for Jesus initiative. So, join Amy as she gives practical ways to implement these disciplines in the local church, and also be sure to listen for the "Special Sauce" that is the key to the success of Ohio for Jesus. Resources: Ohio for Jesus Quick Start Guide - https://static1.squarespace.com/static/60958d014a039c75539ccb53/t/633b048da687ac2154a70d5d/1664812177133/Strategic+Plan+Quick+Start+Guide.pdf

In this Ohio for Jesus Podcast episode, Communications Director Tara Zimmer has a conversation with our Assistant Superintendent Dan Lund and his wife, Adult & Next Gen Director Christa Lund, to discuss their story. Dan & Christa have pastored in Poland, Mt. Vernon, and Cleveland, OH. They have a great wealth of wisdom and knowledge. They love walking alongside people through their struggles. They are constantly meeting someone where they are and journeying with them to get them on the path to Jesus. They also love to laugh, so join Tara, Dan, & Christa in this episode, getting to know them and their story.

In this episode, Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno, sits down with U.S. Missionary James Turner and Ohio Dinner Church Coordinator Carl Bauchspiess. They elaborate on how Dinner Church is going and its impact on Ohio communities. They talk about how God has been faithful to so many people through the Dinner Church and how to get one started in your community. You do not want to miss out on this episode and conversation! Resources: https://www.ohiocmn.com/dinnerchurch

In this episode, Communications Director, Tara Zimmer, sits down with Worship Leader Alex DeJesus Gomez to talk about Worship. They elaborate on many ways to lead a worship team and ministry effectively. Alex DeJesus Gomez is Choco DeJesus's daughter. She is the worship leader of Free Worship out of Chicago, Illinois, and they travel nationally with many well-known artists. You will want to take advantage of this podcast, so join Tara and Alex in this conversation and be prepared to share a laugh.

In this episode, Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno, sits down with Tim Mauriello from Gloo, and they talk about the resource that Gloo and "He Gets Us" is to churches. Gloo has a more significant presence than one may think, and they have an upcoming surprise in this year's Super Bowl! So, be sure to listen to take advantage of this resource for your church! Resources: https://www.gloo.us/ https://hegetsus.com/en?gclsrc=aw.ds&gclid=CjwKCAiAuOieBhAIEiwAgjCvcthuxj3k8vurfFC7lCwRpK2LlNdi2J4hQX0WpBjyKyUbwzeLbuX0IBoCDdYQAvD_BwE

In this episode, Communications Director Tara Zimmer interviews Communications Team Members Abigail Robison and Gabryelle Walsh. They take you on a dynamic journey about the importance of social media and how to manage a ministry's social media account effectively. They give many practical and simple ways to get started today to help improve your individual and your ministry's social media presence. Below are links to the resources mentioned throughout this episode. Resources: Capcut: https://www.capcut.com/ inShot: https://inshot.com/ Hootsuite: https://signup.hootsuite.com/paid-search_ss_na_na_en_usd_branded/?&utm_campaign=all-alwayson-none-na-none---pua--en--&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_content=&gclid=Cj0KCQiAq5meBhCyARIsAJrtdr4qFFiicotXz5VahdyF2pwLqq4FEsmIA9oFCD_0yLXaR-9bTC_XFIAaAoCaEALw_wcB Zoho Social: https://www.zoho.com/social/ Sunday Social: https://www.sundaysocial.tv/ ShareFaith: https://www.sharefaith.com/?utm_term=share%20faith&utm_campaign=Search+-+BRD+-+CPC+-+US&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8702921626&hsa_cam=17507835060&hsa_grp=144629826184&hsa_ad=604534937165&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-1641149606070&hsa_kw=share%20faith&hsa_mt=e&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=Cj0KCQiAq5meBhCyARIsAJrtdr6h2RlPn-J6swIa_OAlKYoSzsqJvtamhbAhKl4ed6eVU9BpXRbwWy4aAuiKEALw_wcB Canva Non-profit Link: Canva Non-Profit Request Instructions[13].docx Contact Gabryelle via Email: Socialmedia@ohioministry.net Synergy Registration: https://www.ohioministry.net/synergy

In this episode, Missions Director Stacy Petty chats with Jonathan & Michelle Wellborn. Jonathan & Michelle are AG World Missionaries to Argentina. Since 2000 they have been raising a new generation of leaders. They have also started a media school at the River Plate Bible Institute to train students in Latin America to spread the Gospel through media ministry. Their family has an effective ministry impacting people around the world for Jesus. Here is a link to their website to stay up to date with what the Wellborn family is doing. https://jonathanandmichelle.com/

At your convenience, please review this Christmas greeting from Pastor Wootton and an accompanying notice about a prayer and fasting emphasis as we begin 2023. Happy holidays!

This is a great episode to listen to, especially if you plan to attend School of the Spirit on November 29. In this episode, recorded in the summer of 2022, OMN Communications Director, Tara Zimmer sits down for a conversation with Pastor Ruthie Oberg. Ruthie Oberg is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God and currently works for the Flower Pentecostal Heritage Center in Springfield, MO. She is a dynamic speaker and travels around the globe sharing the power and importance of our pentecostal heritage. For more information on Ruthie Oberg and the Flower Pentecostal Heritage Center, visit https://ifphc.org/ or https://ruthieoberg.org/.

Thanksgiving greetings from Superintendent John Wootton.

In this episode Network Superintendent, John Wootton and Communications Director, Tara Zimmer, chat with Dr. Carolyn Tennant. Among many other things, Dr. Carolyn is an ordained minister with the Assemblies of God and provides service on various AG national committees including the Commission on Doctrines and Practices. Dr. Carolyn has a passion for helping others understand the 5 fold ministry gifts, especially the Apostolic and Prophetic. She has written several books on the topic, her latest book, Keys to the Apostolic and Prophetic: Embracing the Authentic Avoiding the Bizarre, can be found on Amazon.

In this episode, recorded during a 2022 Synergy session, Claire Gau, licensed professional clinical counselor serving at Emerge Counseling Ministries, talks about anxiety. Gain understanding of anxiety, the brain and how changes can be experienced. Acquire deeper understanding of personal challenges that influence one's emotions. Gather resources, practical and experiential that will support new responses and changes in the anxious brain. You probably won't want to listen to this one while driving, as there will be several focused breathing exercises that encourage you to close your eyes for full benefit. For more information and to connect with an Emerge counselor visit, www.emerge.org.

In this episode, Missions Partnership Director, Stacy Petty, talks with Jan and Eric Muzart, career missionaries to Ukraine. The Muzarts share about their ministry and prayer points for their students and the Church in Ukraine. For more information and to donate to support the Muzarts or the current efforts in Ukraine visit their Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/MuzartMessenger or their AG World Missions giving page, https://agmd.org/u/TheMuzarts

Join a conversation on what's new with the Ohio School of Ministry, SEU Ohio and the role of higher education. Pastors John Wootton, Network Superintendent, Josh Willaford, Leader Development Director, Tom Vollmer, Education Director and Tara Zimmer, Communications Director talk about the role of education in Ohio and their individual lives.

In this episode, Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno, Father's Heart Director, Paris Yanno, Care Portal Manager, Mary Story and CarePortal Regional Rep, Renae Denbow talk about the importance of engaging communities and the role of CarePortal in a church plant. For more information visit, www.fathersheartohio.com or email Mary Story at MStory@ohioministry.net

Join Operations Director, Amy Parsell, and Communications Director, Tara Zimmer, as they chat with Rollie Dimos, from the Assemblies of God National Office about taxes, grants and other financial resources available to pastors and ministries through Empowering Stewardship. Empowering Stewardship Website: https://empoweringstewardship.com Rollie's Book: Balanced Budget, Balanced Life. You can find it on My Healthy Church or Amazon, or by following this link, https://tinyurl.com/MHCBBBL

In this episode Network Youth Director, Nate Ortiz talks with Matt Clark, Youth Alive Director. They discuss the changes in Youth Alive over the decades and how this ministry can support churches, youth pastors and lead pastors in ministering to the next generation.

In this episode Church Health Director, John Musgrave talks with Andy Warren, lead pastor of Victory Church in Tipp City. They discuss the incredible growth that Victory has experienced over the last decade, and how Andy and his team maintains a culture of Seeking the Spirit.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Enjoy this greeting from Superintendent, John Wootton.

In this episode, Network Operations Director Amy Parsell, talks with Andrew Schneider, the Chief Operating Officer for the Illinois District Council and Your Church Administration (YCA). Listen as they talk through best practices for church systems and administration, as well as share a helpful resource to help churches and leaders manage some of the financial and business aspects of ministry. To follow up and get more information about YCA, you can contact Amy at aparsell@ohioministry.net.

Enjoy a greeting from Network Superintendent John Wootton. The podcast will return with our final full episode of the year on Monday, December 13. You won't want to miss hearing from Network Operations Director Amy Parsell as she interviews a special guest from Your Church Administration, a tool that could help you and your staff simplify your financial and administrative needs.

In the episode, Al Yanno, Director of Church Multiplication sat down with the Assemblies of God General Treasurer, Wilfredo "Choco" DeJesus. Get to know Pastor Choco's heart and hear about his ministry in urban church planting and multiplication. Regardless of your ministry context, you will be blessed by Pastor Choco's words.

In this episode, Missions Director, Dave Gross, shares missions updates and ways to help you and your church or ministry get connected to and excited about Missions Partnership!

In this episode, Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno, shares interviews several guests and shares exciting updates and ways to help you and your church or ministry get connected to and excited about Church Multiplication!

In this episode, Church Health Director, John Musgrave, shares exciting updates and ways to help you, your church or ministry get connected to and excited about Church Health!

In this episode, Leader Development Director, Josh Willaford shares exciting updates and ways to help you, your church or ministry get connected to and excited about Leader Development!

In this episode, Church Health Director John Musgrave talks with Brent Heishman, Lead Pastor of CenterPoint Church in Marion, Ohio, about the purpose and process of Making Disciples. They offer practical solutions and an opportunity to continue the conversation with other pastors.

In this episode, Church Health Director John Musgrave talks with newly elected Regional Presbyter, Shaun Howard about his success in leading his church to Seek the Spirit. He offers practical application and even an opportunity to continue the conversation with other pastors.

In this episode, Chi Alpha Regional Director, Steve Brannan, interviews a panel of Chi Alpha directors about their experience in reaching internationals living in Ohio. Their practical advice is relevant for people of all ages desiring to make a global impact for the Gospel from their neighborhood. This episode was recorded during a breakout session at Synergy 2021.

In this episode, Communications Director, Tara Zimmer, chats with Network Youth Director, Nate Ortiz, about the future of Youth Ministry at the local church and state level and how he can partner with your church to help take your ministry to the next level. To connect with Nate or learn more about Ohio Youth Ministry, visit www.oymnetwork.com.

In this episode Church Multiplication Director, Al Yanno talks with Bob Pavlich, CEO of the Ohio Valley Adult and Teen Challenge, drug and alcohol rehab center in Youngstown, Ohio. For more information visit https://atcov.org/

In this episode, Father's Heart Director, Paris Yanno interviews Pastor Jim Barton, the Lead Pastor of Rush Church, and Marcie Consiglio, Executive Director of Moab House. They tell the story of how one Stand Sunday changed the course of their Church's local missions and prompted the launch of a non-profit for kids aging out of the foster care system.

In this interview, Superintendent John Wootton talks with Pastor Donna Barrett, General Secretary of the Assemblies of God. You won't want to miss her nuggets of wisdom as she encourages pastors to use their gifts for the kingdom, regardless of obstacles they may encounter.

In this episode, Al Yanno and Verlon Fosner talk about the foundations of Dinner Church, how it all began and the impact this movement can make in our communities.

In this episode, Missions Partnership Director, Dave Gross, talks with Marlene Craft, Director of Widows Link. They discuss the importance of having a ministry to widows in your church and how she can partner with you to make that happen.