Pod Have Mercy

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're joined by Bishop Ande Emmanuel, the resident bishop of The United Methodist Church in Nigeria. In a conversation that is both sobering and urgent, Bishop Emmanuel sheds light on the escalating tensions between UMC and GMC members in Nigeria—tensions that have led to violence, misinformation, and even the tragic loss of life.He addresses head-on the false narratives being circulated by the Global Methodist Church and offers a clear-eyed perspective on what's truly happening on the ground. This episode is a call for truth, accountability, and prayer for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria who continue to serve faithfully in the face of division and danger.We invite you to listen with open hearts and minds—and to pray for peace, unity, and healing.

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're recording from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with a very special guest: Bishop Moyambe. Together, we explore the inspiring work of the United Methodist Church in Tanzania, how it's growing, how lives are being changed, and what the future holds.Bishop Moyambe shares firsthand stories of transformation, hope, and the power of the Gospel in action. We talk about the challenges and opportunities facing the Church here, and how people around the world can partner through prayer, support, and presence.This is more than a conversation: it's an invitation to be part of something bigger.Ways to Pray and Partner:Pray for the churches, leaders, and communities in TanzaniaSupport development projects like clean water, education, and new church plantsLearn more at Chapelwood.org

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we welcome Shannon Hopkins, co-founder and lead cultivator of RootedGood, to talk about the evolving landscape of the church and its role in today's world.Shannon brings a wealth of experience in social entrepreneurship and innovation, having launched or influenced more than 15 campaigns and trained over 200 social entrepreneurs. Her work centers on helping institutions and communities imagine new ways of being and doing church, especially in times of disruption.In this episode, we explore:How traditional church models are being reimaginedThe tools churches can use to better serve their communitiesWhy innovation and asset-based thinking are key to the church's futureIt's a hopeful and thought-provoking conversation that invites us to see the future of the church not as a problem to solve, but as a story to write.Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we talk about shame, how it shows up in our lives, how we carry it, and how we begin to let it go. As Christians, we often wrestle with guilt and shame, but we also believe in something stronger: connection. In this episode, we explore the idea that the antidote to shame isn't perfection—it's being known. True healing happens in relationships where we're fully seen, and Jesus is right in the middle of those moments.

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we reflect on the life, leadership, and lasting legacy of Pope Francis, following the news of his passing. Known as a reformer, a bridge-builder, and a pope of the people, Francis reshaped the global perception of the Catholic Church with his compassion, humility, and unwavering focus on the margins.Join us as we unpack the impact of his papacy, from his bold stances on climate change and interfaith dialogue to his calls for justice, mercy, and love in a divided world. We also explore how his vision of a more inclusive Church resonated far beyond Catholicism.Whether you're Catholic, Protestant, or just curious, this conversation offers space to grieve, reflect, and be inspired.

In this Holy Week edition of Pod Have Mercy, John Stephens and Michael Jarboe take a thoughtful (and at times hilarious) walk through the final days leading up to Easter: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and Resurrection Sunday. They share insights from their own ministry experiences, the weight and wonder of this season, and even pause to laugh at how bunnies, eggs, and chocolate somehow ended up in the middle of the most sacred story in the Christian faith.Whether you're deeply familiar with Holy Week or just trying to make sense of it all, this conversation invites you into both the mystery and the joy of Easter.For service times and all that's happening during this sacred week, visit chapelwood.org/easter.

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we welcome Jayme McGhan and Andy Pederson from A.D. Players at the George Theatre for a powerful conversation on art, faith, and moral courage.Jayme, the Executive Artistic Director and an accomplished playwright and educator, and Andy, the Education & Theater for Young Audiences Director, join us to discuss their new stage production: How to Die: The Life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer. This original play explores the life of the German pastor and theologian who boldly stood against the Nazi regime—even when it cost him everything.We dig deep into questions like:

In this episode, we sit down with Rev. Eric Soard, Executive Director of the Wesley College Foundation and an ordained deacon in the Memphis Annual Conference. Eric shares his powerful journey from youth ministry in Tennessee to a decade of mission work in Tanzania, where he and his family served in orphan care, church planting, and community development.We dive into the founding of Wesley College in Mwanza, a bold vision birthed from years of grassroots ministry and Spirit-led transformation. Eric offers deep insight into international development, leadership rooted in faith, and the hope he sees in the next generation of Tanzanian leaders. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about calling, courage, and the Church's global impact.Follow Eric on Twitter/Facebook: @EricSoardLearn more at wesleycollegetz.comContact: esoard@wesleycollegetz.com

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we explore the transformative power of travel, the way stepping into unfamiliar places can open us up to awe, wonder, and something beyond ourselves. When we allow the mystery of a place to surprise us, we find that travel isn't just about geography, it's about transcendence.We draw parallels between these experiences and the mystery of God, who cannot be boxed in or fully imagined. Just like a new destination, the divine often meets us in the unexpected, in the liminal spaces where we let go of control and embrace presence.Join us as we talk about letting mystery lead, whether you're on the road or on a journey of faith.

In this episode of Pod Have Mercy, we tackle a big question: What is an evangelical?  Using insights from a recent Pew Research Center study featured in Christianity Today, we explore the shifting landscape of evangelical identity in America.From racial diversity to political affiliations and even church attendance trends, we unpack the surprising findings that challenge common assumptions. Are all evangelicals politically conservative? Do they all attend church regularly? The answers might surprise you.Join us for a deep dive into the nuances of faith, culture, and identity. 

In this episode, we dive deep into the shifting landscape of religion in America, exploring the growing divide between those who identify as religious versus spiritual. Drawing on recent PEW research, we discuss the numbers behind this trend, examining the rise of spiritual but not religious individuals and what it means for the future of faith in the U.S. How is the church responding to this shift? Are traditional religious institutions adapting, or are they struggling to keep pace with the evolving spiritual needs of Americans? Join us as we unpack the data, share insights, and discuss the complex relationship between belief, identity, and community in today's society.

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're joined by Colin Bagby, the lead pastor of Branches Church in Houston, Texas. Colin shares the heart behind Branches Church, a place where everyone belongs—no matter who you are or where you're from. With a mission to build a welcoming home and community, Colin discusses the vision of creating a church that reaches beyond just a building and into the hearts of people in Houston and beyond. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about belonging, faith, and the power of inclusive community in today's world.

In this episode of Pod Have Mercy, we are honored to welcome Dr. Stan Copeland, Senior Pastor of Lovers Lane United Methodist Church in Dallas since 1998. Dr. Copeland has dedicated his ministry to "loving all people into relationship with Jesus Christ," fostering a vibrant and diverse congregation through various outreach ministries. Under his leadership, Lovers Lane UMC has expanded its impact, serving communities in need and emphasizing the power of faith in action.In 2022, Dr. Copeland was recognized as the Distinguished Graduate Award recipient and commencement speaker at Saint Paul School of Theology.Join us as we explore his journey, his passion for ministry, and his vision for the future of the church!

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we welcome Pastor Joseph Rios, leader of Generaciones, a thriving Spanish-speaking worship community of Chapelwood! (iglesiageneraciones.org). Join us as we dive into a powerful conversation about the challenges and opportunities of ministry in Houston's Spanish-speaking communities. We discuss the growing need for faith-based support, how churches can better serve diverse congregations, and the work being done to expand outreach in these communities.

In this episode of Pod Have Mercy, we dive deep into the recurring themes in Disney movies—why do the parents always die? Is there a hidden formula behind it, or is it simply a storytelling device? We also discuss the latest updates from the church and reflect on how they might be shaping the modern faith landscape. Finally, we explore the parable of the sower and what lessons we can learn from it today. Tune in for a conversation that blends pop culture, spirituality, and a whole lot of mercy!

We're honored to welcome Richard Beck to Pod Have Mercy this week! Richard is a psychologist, author, and professor who has spent decades exploring the intersection of mental health, spirituality, and justice. His work is groundbreaking, particularly in the areas of prison ministry and the way our spiritual lives intersect with our emotional well-being. In this episode, Richard shares his profound insights on how our faith can be a source of healing and transformation, especially in some of the most challenging environments. As a leader in psychological and theological reflection, he's spent years researching how people can heal emotionally and spiritually—especially those on the margins. His work on the psychology of forgiveness, trauma, and redemption will leave you thinking long after the episode ends. Richard is the author of several books, including "Unclean" and "The Psychology of Christian Spirituality," and his blog, Experimental Theology, is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of faith and mental health. Richard's Links: http://experimentaltheology.blogspot.com https://richardbeck.substack.com/about

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're getting into the holiday spirit with a twist! Tune in as we read the Christmas story… but not in any ordinary way. Instead, we're diving into the ChatGPT Bible written in full-on Gen Z lingo. It's a fresh, hilarious take on the birth of Jesus, and trust us, you won't want to miss it. Plus, we're keeping it real with some practical tips on how to beat holiday stress. Whether you're juggling family drama, endless to-do lists, or just trying to keep it together, we've got you covered with simple ways to stay calm and enjoy the season. Grab your hot cocoa, hit play, and let's spread some holiday cheer (with a dash of humor, of course). ✨

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're joined by Abraham Guajardo and Jared Darby, the co-pastors of Eden Church, a new church plant in Houston, Texas. In this episode, we dive into their unique journey of starting Eden Church and how they've embraced a co-pastoring model—a refreshing alternative to traditional leadership structures. Abraham and Jared share their personal stories, how they came together to lead, and why they believe a collaborative leadership approach is key to building a thriving faith community. We also explore how they developed the church's visual identity, and what God is doing through Eden Church in the Houston area. If you're curious about the future of church leadership, creative ministry, and the power of community, this episode is for you. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with two leaders who are breaking the mold and following God's calling in a bold new way. https://www.edenchurchhouston.com

This Thanksgiving, join us for a special episode where we dive deep into the transformative power of gratitude. Based on the insightful article "Attitude of Gratitude" from Calm, we explore how cultivating a grateful mindset can change the way we see the world, improve our mental health, and enrich our relationships.In this episode, we'll discuss practical ways to build gratitude into daily life, share inspiring stories of how gratitude has made a difference, and offer simple tips for incorporating this powerful practice, especially during the holiday season. Whether you're looking to enhance your well-being or simply want to reflect on the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving, this episode is filled with inspiration to help you embrace an attitude of gratitude.Tune in to spark joy, find peace, and create a lasting sense of appreciation, not just for today, but for every day. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us!

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we dive deep into the powerful intersection of contemplative worship and music with special guests Michael Sciretti and Peter Johns. Michael and Peter are part of The Center for Contemplative Spirituality. In this episode, we explore how contemplative worship can lead us into deeper communion with the Divine, and how music plays a vital role in creating sacred spaces for reflection, prayer, and healing.Join us as we discuss the beauty of slowing down, embracing stillness, and using music as a pathway to encounter God in new and meaningful ways. Whether you're a worship leader, a musician, or someone seeking more intentional spiritual practice, this episode offers insights and inspiration for enriching your own worship journey. For more information about The Center visit: TheCenterFCS.org To listen to the new album visit: https://thecenterfcs.org/everything-belongs-album/

This week on Pod Have Mercy, we're joined by James Kelly, a highly skilled pianist, singer, and worship leader from Houston, TX. Known for his exceptional versatility across genres like gospel, jazz, country, and pop, James has spent his life perfecting his craft. With a background in classical training and a natural gift for improvisation, he's become a sought-after musician, performing for tens of thousands and leading worship in churches across the country. In this episode, James shares his journey from business degrees to full-time musician, how his love for folk instruments like mandolin, guitar, and banjo informs his work, and his experiences performing with award-winning artists like Mark Lowry, Nichole Nordeman, and Michael Card. We'll also hear about his new album, Chapel in the Wood, and how he balances his roles as Director of Contemporary Worship and Choral Accompanist at Chapelwood UMC in Houston. Whether you're a fan of worship music or just love a good behind-the-scenes story from the world of music, this conversation is filled with insight and inspiration. If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. And be sure to check out James Kelly's music on his Facebook LIVE performances and his latest album, Chapel in the Wood. James Kelly James Kelly Facebook Page

This week we're joined by Vipin Thekk, an expert in transformation and cultural innovation, to explore how we can reconnect in an increasingly divided world. With the election season in full swing and polarization at an all-time high, we discuss how social media, isolation, and a fractured sense of community are shaping our society—and what we can do about it. Vipin shares insights from his extensive experience facilitating change across continents, offering practical strategies for building empathy, agency, and connection amidst the noise. Whether you're navigating difficult conversations or simply seeking ways to bridge the gap in a polarized world, this conversation offers a roadmap for creating meaningful dialogue and fostering mutual understanding. Vipin is a master of transformation, a facilitator, an Integral Life Coach, and a Kundalini yoga teacher. He brings a wealth of knowledge from his work with individuals and institutions around the globe, and his passion for innovation and empathy shines through in every word. https://www.togethernesspractice.org

Join us this week as we dive into the pressing issues surrounding the upcoming election and explore how Christians can navigate this pivotal season with grace and purpose. We'll discuss practical steps for engaging with the political landscape while staying true to our faith. Plus, we'll unpack an insightful article titled "5 Lessons Christians Can Learn from the Barmen Declaration," drawing parallels between historical context and today's challenges. Tune in for thoughtful conversations that inspire and empower you to live out your beliefs in a complex world. Don't miss this enlightening episode!

Today we sit down with Moses Njobvu, a pastor, missional entrepreneur, and community advocate from Malawi. As the founder and team leader of the Abundant Life Center in Mitundu, Moses has dedicated his life to uplifting vulnerable communities through a holistic approach to ministry.Moses's journey is one of resilience and transformation. Having faced extreme poverty, domestic violence, and family loss as a child, he found strength in the unwavering love of his sister, who took on immense challenges to care for him. These early experiences shaped his vision for a world where every child grows up in a secure, loving environment anchored in faith.At the Abundant Life Center, Moses leads a variety of impactful programs aimed at eradicating poverty and empowering individuals. From medical clinics to micro-loan initiatives, his mission focuses on nurturing the whole person—physically, spiritually, and emotionally. Through community education and support for women and children, Moses is helping to foster self-reliance and dignity among those he serves.Join us as we explore Moses's incredible story, the challenges he faces, and the hope he brings to his community. This episode is a testament to the power of love, faith, and the human spirit. Don't miss it!For more information and ways to support the Abundant Life Center visit: https://abundantlifecentermalawi.org

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Leroy Barber, a dedicated leader with over 20 years of experience in combating poverty, homelessness, and racism while fostering what Dr. King called "the beloved community." We discuss Leroy's innovative projects, including the founding of Atlanta Youth Academies and Community Grounds Coffee shop, and his vision for a more inclusive, loving community. He also dives into the importance of faith in driving social change and how we can actively serve our neighbors—often just a street away. With insights from his books, including New Neighbor, Leroy inspires us to embrace our roles as agents of change in our communities. Join us for this enlightening conversation that challenges us to reflect on our responsibilities and the impact we can have in creating a more just world. Don't miss it!

In this episode, we sit down with Trevor Barnett from The Restoration Team, a dedicated organization focused on disaster recovery and community rebuilding. With a wealth of experience in hurricane recovery efforts, Trevor shares his insights on the profound impact of Hurricane Milton and the challenges communities face in its aftermath. We delve into the critical role of organizations like The Restoration Team in providing support and resources to those affected, highlighting stories of resilience and hope. Trevor discusses the severity of Hurricane Milton, the ongoing recovery efforts, and the importance of community involvement in the rebuilding process. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the power of restoration and the unwavering spirit of those who work tirelessly to rebuild lives and communities after disaster strikes. Don't miss this enlightening episode that sheds light on recovery and the strength found in unity. For more information, visit The Restoration Team.

This week we are joined by Rev. Dr. Jonathan Smith and Dr. Scott Hagan to discuss the relief efforts happening in Georgia after Hurricane Helene. Join us as we explore the stories of resilience and hope from those affected, highlighting the amazing work being done through BullochStrong.com. Whether you're directly affected by the hurricane or simply looking to help, tune in and discover how we can all rise together. Visit BullochStrong.com for more information and ways to contribute to this vital cause. For more information visit: www.sgaumc.org www.umcor.org BullochStrong.com

In this episode of Pod Have Mercy, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Warren Kinghorn, a renowned expert at the intersection of theology, medicine, and mental health. Dr. Kinghorn is the Associate Research Professor of Psychiatry and Pastoral and Moral Theology at Duke University. He also co-directs the Theology, Medicine, and Culture Initiative at Duke Divinity School. His work focuses on reshaping the way faith communities and medical professionals understand mental illness, suffering, and the call to care for others. Join us for an insightful conversation on integrating spiritual and psychological perspectives in healthcare, and how faith communities can respond to modern mental health challenges. This is an episode you won't want to miss, whether you're interested in mental health, pastoral care, or the role of faith in medicine.

Content Warning: In this episode, we discuss topics related to mental health, including depression and suicide. These discussions may be distressing or triggering for some listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or thoughts of suicide, we encourage you to seek support from a mental health professional or contact a crisis helpline. Listener discretion is advised. In this eye-opening episode of Pod Have Mercy, we dive deep into one of the most pressing yet often overlooked issues of our time: the loneliness epidemic and its profound impact on mental health. As more people experience social isolation in a hyperconnected world, we explore why so many are feeling more disconnected than ever. Join us as we unpack the psychological, emotional, and societal factors contributing to this growing crisis and hear from mental health experts who offer practical advice on how to cultivate meaningful connections. Whether you're seeking to understand the depths of loneliness or looking for ways to support those who feel lost, this episode promises to offer insight, empathy, and hope. https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2024/jan/29/us-surgeon-general-vivek-murthy-loneliness-mental-health-epidemic-social-media https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/surgeon-general-social-connection-advisory.pdf

This week we're joined by Matt Miofsky, Lead Pastor of The Gathering in St. Louis and an accomplished author. We'll dive deep into his new book, exploring themes of faith, failure, and resilience. As a ministry innovator, Matt offers unique insights into the intersection of spirituality and everyday life. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that challenges us to think deeply about how faith shapes our paths, even in times of uncertainty. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode! For more information about Matt and his new book click here: Matt Miofsky.

On this episode, we sit down with Eddie Rester and Chris McAlilly, the hosts of The Weight podcast. Known for diving into life's most challenging questions, they explore faith, mental health, leadership, and personal growth with depth and authenticity. In The Weight, they invite guests from all walks of life—pastors, artists, athletes, and thinkers—to discuss the moments that shape us and how we find hope and meaning in the midst of heavy burdens. Tune in as Eddie and Chris share the story behind their show and the conversations that continue to inspire them. For more information go to: www.theweightpodcast.com

This week we are back from summer break! We have a new studio design and lots of guests lined up for the fall season. Today we check in on what John and Matt have been up to over the summer and what they are excited about for the fall at Chapelwood.

This week we are joined by Reverend Cesar Martinez! Rev. Martinez has been a Pastor in the UMC for the last 12 years. He leads a multicultural, multilingual, and multigenerational church in Houston Texas called CrossRoads UMC. Today we talk about how the United Methodist Church can better serve those in the community of Houston and how we can create more opportunities for discipleship in the neighborhoods around us.

This week we are joined by Rev. Gregg Taylor and Rev. Melissa Maher at the Texas Annual Conference! We get an update from Rev. Taylor on his church in Minneapolis and we hear about how Rev. Maher has transitioned into a new and exciting role within the United Methodist Church.

Today we get a quick update from John's travels to Scotland. We talk about how many of the churches in Scotland have been converted to pubs, restaurants and art galleries. We discuss how Chapelwood's digital media reach makes uncommon connections near and far and much more!

This week we drop in on a group therapy session that is hosted by Logos, a group therapy resource started by Robert Hilliker. We discuss how Robert Hilliker first began his group therapy practice and some of the concepts that he finds foundational. For more information visit: https://logosgroups.com

This week we talk about the devastating weather event that occurred in Houston and how we are responding to those in crisis. For more information on how you can receive help or donate to the relief efforts visit Chapelwood.org/storm.

Ibraim Nascimento is an international, Afro-Brazilian artist from the historic city of Cachoeira, Bahia. He has exhibited his work throughout Brazil and the United States, from California to Texas. Iconoclast, an organization associated with Chapelwood, recently commissioned Ibraim to create the cover art for an annual book of poetry that they publish. The book will be released at the They Say student poetry performance on Thursday, May 16th, at The Museum of Fine Arts. For more information on this event, visit https://www.iconoclastartists.org Today, we discuss how Ibraim came to America, his inspiration for his art, and how he became involved with Chapelwood and Iconoclast. To find more information about Ibraim, visit his website at https://www.ibraimnascimento.com/about. Ibraim, in partnership with friend of the podcast, Rev. DeAndre Johnson, has recently published a book of prayers and artwork called Yes and Amen: A Prayer Collection, which can be purchased on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.com/Yes-Amen-Collection-DeAndre-Johnson/dp/B0CLHQ9J2Z/ref=sr_1_1?crid=14QG70DBLKNNE&keywords=yes%20and%20amen%20deandre%20johnson&qid=1701383817&sprefix=yes%20and%20amen%2Caps%2C100&sr=8-1

Today we are joined by Rev. DeAndre Johnson and Pastor Lindsay Kirkpatrick to discuss some changes that are taking place in The United Methodist Church. John Stephens served as a delegate to the United Methodist Church's General Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina. The two-week long process uses the first week to divide into 14 different legislative committees connected to every part of the Book of Discipline, UMC church law and polity. Over 1,100 petitions were submitted and worked on in the legislative committees. The delegates of General Conference are from around the world - USA, Philippines, Europe, Eurasia, and Africa. In the legislative committees, the groups of 40-80 members discuss and debate every petition. Once that work is done, all their actions come to the main body of almost 800 members in week two for all of us to either approve the work they've done, reject it, or amend it.   Today we discuss all of UMC news and much more!

Linda Kagey, LCDC, ADC is a licensed chemical dependency counselor with more than 20 years of experience providing addiction and codependency treatment to adults, adolescents and families. She has extensive counseling experience with both the criminal and family law systems and can provide evaluations and therapy as needed, as well as expert testimony on substance abuse and its impact on families. Linda is a Love First Interventionist and a certified trainer for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). She currently is the co-chair on the Texas Collaborative on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders Steering Committee. Linda is affiliated with the Houston Area Partnership on FASD, Texas Association of Addiction Professionals, NAADAC Association for Addiction Professionals, national and local chapters of Employee Assistance Professional Association and serves on the board of the Coalition of Behavioral Health Services.Today we talk about Linda's story of recovery, how you can tell if you are living in a system of alcoholism and much more! For more information visit: LindaKagey.com

Today we have a very special guest, Shariq Abdul Ghani! In this heartfelt conversation, Shariq delves into the richness of his faith traditions, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on how his beliefs have shaped his understanding of the world and humanity. We discuss the commonalities that exist between Islam and Christianity, emphasizing the shared values of love, compassion, and service to others. We highlight the importance of dialogue, empathy, and active listening in fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. By focusing on what unites us rather than what divides us, we demonstrate how we can build bridges of solidarity and cooperation within our communities.Shariq Abdul Ghani is the Executive Director of Minaret Foundation, an organization focused on bringing faith communities together through multi-faith and civic engagement. Apart from dialogue, dodgeball, and BBQs, Minaret Foundation works with faith communities to change the world through advocacy in food insecurity, child welfare, and religious freedom.You can learn more at MinaretFoundation.com or by emailing him at shariq@minaretfoundation.com.

Today we are joined by a very special guest, Michele Russel! Michele Russell received her Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Fuller Theological Seminary in 1995. During her 22 years working in the field of mental health, she served as a staff counselor at Texas Children's Hospital Learning Support Center and established the Eating Disorder Program at The Center for the Study of Addiction and Recovery at Texas Tech University, where she also served as Program Director. In 2014, Michele was the Program Director for the Theology and Community program at Duke Divinity School. From 2015-2017, she served as Social and Emotional Program Specialist at Small Steps Nurturing Center in Houston. Currently, she works at Kagey Family Counseling. Across these unique environments, Michele has found the opportunity to support social and emotional growth and resilience in individuals, families and communities to be deeply challenging and rewarding.

In this special episode, John Stephens and Josef Klam check in with us from their pilgrimage in the footsteps of the apostle Paul.

Join us this week as we dive deep into the realms of empathy, understanding, and grace with our special guest, Tod Bolsinger. In this enlightening episode, Tod Bolsinger, renowned author, speaker, and leadership expert, shares his insights on navigating the complexities of leadership with empathy and humility. From leading with a compassionate heart to fostering inclusive communities, Tod offers invaluable wisdom for individuals striving to make a positive impact in their spheres of influence. Whether you're a seasoned leader or someone seeking to cultivate a more compassionate approach to life, this episode of Pod Have Mercy promises to inspire and empower you on your journey towards greater understanding and empathy. Tune in and join the conversation as we explore the transformative power of mercy in today's world. Don't miss out – hit play now and let compassion lead the way!

This week we talk about the three temptations of Jesus according to Richard Rohr. In Matthew's Gospel, the temptations are not just isolated events but profound lessons for us all. In the first temptation, Jesus confronts the challenge to misuse personal power. In a world where the allure of greatness and recognition can be overwhelming, Jesus teaches us the importance of humility and using power for the common good. The second temptation takes us to the pinnacle of religious misuse. Here, Jesus resists the temptation to engage in transactional religion, emphasizing the true essence of transformation and spiritual growth over mere ritual. Lastly, the third temptation exposes the allure of political power. While not inherently evil, Jesus shows us the dangers of wielding power without a deep grounding in moral values and service to the common good. Join us as we navigate these timeless lessons, challenging ourselves to embrace our divine identity and wield power responsibly for the betterment of all.

This week we talk about the Rodeo and Holy Week. We talk about an article written by Ruth Haley Barton at transformingcenter.org. We also discuss how we can use the image of the crucifix as a visual cue for reflection. Holy Week—is all of us going through the rhythm of death, burial, and resurrection. It is not a rhythm that any of us would willingly choose or even know how to choose; it is usually thrust upon us. Even Jesus admitted to having mixed feelings about the inevitability of it all. Now my soul is troubled.  And what should I say— “Father, save me from this hour?”  No, it is for this reason that I have come to this hour. (John 12:27)

This week we talk about truth! We examine how our perception of truth plays a pivotal role in shaping the narratives that influence our perspectives on issues ranging from politics to morality. We also delve into the dynamic relationship between post-truth, Overton's Window, and the church. How does the evolving landscape of information impact religious institutions, and how do they, in turn, influence the broader cultural conversation?

Today we talk about grace! We talk about where we see grace in our every day lives and where we experience the kind of grace that cannot be earned.

Welcome to a powerful and inspiring episode of Pod Have Mercy, where we sit down with a remarkable individual who defied all odds to find freedom and self-expression. In this episode, we have the privilege of hosting Arshia Komeili, an Iranian rapper whose journey from persecution to redemption is nothing short of extraordinary. Arshia's story begins in Iran, where he faced immense challenges due to his passion for activism and social justice. Fleeing from government persecution, Arshia made the courageous journey to the United States, seeking a life where he could freely express his beliefs and pursue his artistic endeavors. Join us as Arshia shares the profound moments of his conversion and the challenges he encountered along the way. His incredible resilience and determination led him to Chapelwood United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas, where he found not only a community but also a place where he could be baptized, symbolizing a new beginning in his life. Throughout the conversation, Arshia reflects on the power of music, faith, and the importance of embracing one's true self. As an Iranian rapper who found refuge in the United States, his story sheds light on the universal struggle for freedom, identity, and the pursuit of happiness.

This week we are joined again by Bishop Mande Muyombo! Bishop Mande Muyombo was elected to the episcopacy in 2017. He is the Resident Bishop of the North Katanga Area, which includes North Katanga, Tanganyika and Tanzania conferences in the Congo Central Conference of The United Methodist Church.

In this episode, join our lively discussions as we navigate the highs and lows of the 2024 Super Bowl, dissecting epic plays and unforgettable moments. But that's not all – we'll also embark on a soulful journey into the Lenten season and Ash Wednesday, exploring the meaning behind the rituals and traditions that shape our spiritual landscapes.