The Broken Banquet is a podcast about missions hosted by Wil Bailey and Dr. Ashley Goad. Join us for conversations about the church in mission, what healthy mission relationships can look like, and how abiding with God and neighbor can transform the Church and the world. Most recently, the Broken Banquet has become a ministry of Meno Missions. Visit our website at https://www.menomissions.org.
Season Two is coming to a close. Wil and Ashley take some time to reflect on all of the great interviews from the season and give listeners an update on what's next!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Have you ever met Vicki Sullivan? Perhaps at the Accounts Payable desk in the Business Office of First Methodist Church Shreveport, where she's been a friendly presence for over 11 years. Maybe you've shared a pew with her at FaithLink or Traditional services, or perhaps you've walked alongside her on a spiritual journey during a Seekers Class or Walk to Emmaus.Some of you may even have embarked on international adventures together, traveling to Haiti, Russia, Costa Rica, or Italy. No matter the setting, you'd remember her infectious enthusiasm for missions and her unwavering love for Jesus.That's why, when it came time to appoint a new Director of Global Missions of First Methodist Church Shreveport, the answer was clear: Vicki Sullivan. Her qualifications extend far beyond a resume. With a compassionate heart and an ever-present smile, she embodies the spirit of this vital role.Vicki's love story with the FMC Global Missions family began nearly a decade ago when she sponsored a young man at Darivager Children's Home in Haiti. This wasn't just a financial commitment; it ignited a passion that led her on her first mission trip to Haiti, forever transforming her perspective. Mission work, for Vicki, transcended writing checks. It became about fostering relationships with the people we support around the world.From agape teams in Russia to construction projects in Costa Rica, and retreats with missionaries in Italy, Vicki has a deep understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by our global partners.But her dedication goes beyond the geographical. The cornerstone of Vicki's life is her faith in Jesus, which she readily shares with enthusiasm. Whether you've met her on a Walk to Emmaus or simply crossed paths at FMC, you've undoubtedly felt that contagious spirit. Above all, Vicki prioritizes building genuine connections, a quality that will serve her remarkably well as she connects with our global family.Indeed, God has meticulously paved the way for Vicki to step into this new season of leading our global efforts. Please join us in welcoming her! We're thrilled to see how Vicki's passion and experience will guide the FMC global missions family in the years ahead.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Your co-hosts, Wil & Ashley, are taking a break this week. And since we replayed Wil's episode earlier this season, we thought we'd re-introduce you to Ashley this week! Lots of changes are coming for Ashley, and we look forward to filling you in on those soon! Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Friends, do we have a show for you! Meet Dr. Larry Dempsey, the leader of Wil Bailey's first trip to Costa Rica! Larry is a long-time member of 1st Methodist Church of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and over the course of 40+ trips to Costa Rica, he has a unique perspective on what mission relationships look like and how his feelings about missions have evolved over his many years of travel. We're so thankful for Larry joining us, and for his faithful commitment not only to Costa Rica Mission Projects, but to Brian Dubberly of El Salvador, as well!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Kay Ferguson loves Jesus, loves missions, loves her husband (Joe), her son (Joseph), her dog (Tracker), and her cat! Kay has been at the helm of the First Methodist Church of Shreveport's Global Mission family for over 10 years. We talk with her today about what led her to go on her first mission trip, what she thought of missions then, and how her perspective has evolved over time. It's a beautiful, emotional episode as Ashley & Kay reflect on ten years of learning together! Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
You've met his wife, Tamara! She blew the competition away with her episode! It has nearly double the listens of any other episodes we've produced! Now, it's time to hear from hubby, Jeremy. He's a rabid UNC fan and loves Jesus just as passionately. In 2009, Jeremy and Tamara Boone left the United States for Jinja, Uganda, and soon began serving in a refugee camp-turned-slum called Masese III. The people who live there fled the high deserts to escape war, child abduction, and famine. Decades later, the community still struggles to survive each day and is aid dependent. Though many of them say they are Christians their community is largely devoid of any tangible evidence of God's love. Jeremy and Tamara are sure that God has called and sent them, alongside of others, to share the gospel in word and deed with the hope He will bring His Karamojong children to Himself.Today, the Karamojong in Masese Slum are at risk of being displaced again as the town dismantles the community to make room for development. Nearly everyone is at a loss about where they will go or what they will do. As the community disappears, it is clearer than ever that Jesus' call to disciple is the only way to make a long-term, eternal impact among the Karamojong tribe. Jeremy and Tamara currently seek discipling relationships through three platforms: financial training and job creation, advocacy, and church planting.Since being in Uganda, they have adopted two children, Gloria and Evan, as well as given birth to two more, Karis and Samantha.Jeremy and Tamara also serve as Member Care Associates for Equip International, providing support and encouragement for all Equip missionaries in order to increase their resilience and effectiveness in the field.To learn more about Tamara & Jeremy, check out this video!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
We'll be back next Monday with new episodes! Until then, by popular demand, we're replaying one of our episodes from Season One. Listeners, meet Co-Host Wil Bailey! He's a husband to Yolanda, a father to Isabella, and a friend to many, near and far. To learn more about Wil & Yolanda, watch: https://youtu.be/o73CY-x06Y4To learn more about Costa Rica Mission Projects, visit: http://costaricamissionprojects.comRead The World in a Wafer by William Cavanaugh. Wil Bailey is a Missionary serving in Costa Rica. He received his Master of Divinity degree from Duke University Divinity School in May of 2003 and has been commissioned as a United Methodist Volunteers in Mission Individual Volunteer. His wife, Yolanda, is an active, life-long member of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica.Wil went to Costa Rica for the first time when he was 15 years old with a United Methodist Volunteers in Missions youth work team. He went back every chance he got, and by the time he moved to Costa Rica in 2003, he had been 14 times. The majority of those trips were mission work teams. Wil says, "I have known since that first trip that doing mission work in Central America would always be a part of my life." Wil has also been on work teams to Honduras and Belize and spent the Summer of 2001 working with the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in Johannesburg, South Africa.Wil spent the Summer of 2002 back in Costa Rica living with a pastor and his family in San Isidro. It was over the course of those three-and-a-half months that God showed Wil that there was a ministry for him in Costa Rica. The week before he left to come back to the States to finish seminary, Wil met with Bishop Fernando Palomo in San Jose, and the Bishop invited him to come to work full-time as a part of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica.In March of 2014 Wil and Yolanda were overjoyed to welcome the newest member of the Costa Rica Mission Projects family, Isabella Caroline Bailey Ulloa. Wil and Yolanda believe that when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, he taught us, in dramatic fashion, that if we claim to be His followers, we must be servants to one another. Christian service comes in many forms and they believe that they have been called to provide opportunities for churches in Costa Rica and churches from other countries to serve one another and explore what it means for us to be part of a body that extends far beyond the walls of our own individual churches. Their hope is that they might be able to help foster long lasting, fruitful relationships between the congregations who participate in this ministry. It is very important to them that they avoid establishing or reinforcing already existing relationships of dependency, but rather, that the churches involved will discover the benefits of interaction with one another. They understand the communion that takes place across borders, cultures and languages as a glimpse of God's Kingdom and as a sign of the work of the Holy Spirit among us.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Kenneth Rwego was born in Southwestern Uganda near the border of Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. As a child he enjoyed crossing the border into Congo to visit his friends. It was during those visits that Kenneth saw firsthand the disturbing images of human suffering and broken families. In 1997, Kenneth accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. It was then that he began to feel a strong conviction to share the message of Faith, Hope and Love with the people of Congo. Kenneth's first trip to Congo as a believer was in 1998 during his first year of college. Since then, he has traveled to Congo at least once each year to share the Gospel with the people there. Over the years, God has continued to clarify Kenneth and his wife, Abigail's call to go into full-time missionary ministry in Congo through the founding of Eden Mission. With a focus on family, the Rwego Family trusts that Eden Mission will help families find joy, peace and a more fruitful and fulfilling life through Christ Jesus.Beginning in 2015 Kenneth and his family moved to live in the Congo full-time to continue and expand the work of Eden Mission. To learn more about Eden Mission, visit their website: https://edenmission.orgMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
You've already met so many members of George Fox Evangelical Seminary's Leadership & Global Perspective Cohort #4 -- Stefania Tarasut, Dr. Julie Dodge, Dr. John Woodward, and Dr. Mitch Arbelaez. Now it's time to meet Dr. Deve Persad!Deve has been serving in the Lead Pastor role at Sarnia Evangelical Missionary Church since 2006. He's a simple guy (vanilla ice cream and regular chips) just trying to bring the mission, mercy and message of Jesus to the world. Deve and his wife, Amanda, have two adult children, Jarrett (married to Katlyn) and Aynsley. Together they share a love for food and football!To read Deve's WHOLE story, click here: https://emcctogether.ca/2020/06/deve-persad-emcc-enrichment-facilitator-series/To read Deve's dissertation, download it at: http://digitalcommons.georgefox.edu/dmin/137/To read Deve's amazing writing, visit: https://www.down2earthleadership.comTo learn more about Deve's church, visit: https://sarniaemc.orgTo learn more about Deve's El Salvador partnership, visit: https://www.shelterhelps.comMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Listeners! This is episode speaks to our souls! Meet Nathan Nelson!Nathan is the Pastor of Mission & Outreach at Bethany Community Church in Seattle, WA. He has more than a decade of experience working in short-term mission on the side of the sending church and receiving organization. He has worked throughout Latin America, Rwanda, and Seattle in church-based community development and is passionate about unifying local churches to be agents of holistic transformation in their communities. He holds a MA of Divinity with an emphasis in International Development & Urban Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary and BA in Global Development and Sociology from Seattle Pacific University. He is a contributor to the book Re-Imagining Short-Term Missions and several publications on the topic of Christian mission. He calls the Pacific Northwest home and lives every day in gratitude and admiration for his beloved wife Maci.To learn more about Re-Imagining Short-Term Missions, visit the RISTM Book Website: https://www.reimaginingstm.com/Rwanda to Seattle Mission Trip (teaser trailer): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HSq0j2w6PI8Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
You've met Dr. John Woodward, a gazillion times. Wil & Ashley have interviewed him, he has interviewed Wil & Ashley, and he's serving on the Meno Missions Board of Directors.But have you met Lissy Pixley?! No, she's not a unicorn, but she is a super hero! Lissy serves in Campus Christian Fellowship at Iowa State University, a role you may have heard about in a previous episode when we interviewed Lissy's dad, Dr. John Woodward. That's right, Lissy is following in the footsteps of her father, and we adore this father-daughter duo. You will, too!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
It's our last episode from our South Pacific Pilgrimage in 2023! We're TRIPLE the fun today, as we interview not one, not two, but THREE young people in New Zealand and Australia.Ashley first met Charlotte in Newcastle, Australia. She was attending Northlakes Christian Church with Katie Branham. They were instantly three peas in a pod! Now Charlotte has married Ty, and they're living in Auckland, New Zealand, attending Laidlaw College, and serving at Church NorthWest! Katie studied at Boise Bible College in Idaho and University of Newcastle. She resides in Newcastle where she enjoys drawing and illustrating, and going to soccer games!More on Katie's Artwork: https://katiebranham.squarespace.comMore on Laidlaw College: https://www.laidlaw.ac.nzMore on Church NorthWest: https://churchnorthwest.nzMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
It's another episode from the Broken Banquet South Pacific World Tour 2023! This time we sit in a small cabin in Newcastle, Australia and talk to Marilynn & Allen Todd. We talk all things missions and Krispy Kreme Doughnuts! This may be the episode that features ABIDING more than any other. Allen & Marilynn have 30+ years of marriage and ministry experience that they are bringing to Australia. Allen teaches scripture classes weekly in the public school and supports church plants in both Newcastle and Sydney by preaching and teaching and volunteering. Marilynn is gifted at building relationships in the community. She volunteers at a local refugee center building relationships with women from Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Syria & Bangladesh.To support Marilynn & Todd, CLICK HERE.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
A missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church, Guillermo (Willie) Berman Ramirez is serving in his home country of Mexico as the Mexican Methodist Border Mission Coordinator based in Reynosa. Serving in a similar ministry since 2001, Willie has worked with VIM teams from annual conferences in Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Ohio, Tennessee and Iowa.Willie's call to mission was inspired by the work of his parents (lay persons) as they received and worked with mission teams in the poor areas of Reynosa, Mexico. He began sensing God's call to mission as he saw how US teams in Reynosa worked with the people with so much love and care, and how inactive his local church was in mission. During the past few years Willie has been involved in many opportunities of ministry and mission. New ministries have been started in the communities with which work teams serve: sewing classes, wood-working shops for men, medical clinics, scholarship programs, Bible distribution, construction of houses/schools/community centers, breakfast and lunch programs, craft programs, a Personal Energy Transportation (P.E.T.) Shop and many other programs. In 2008 Willie began helping in developing a new strategy for the Methodist Border Mission Network as the program works with immigrants along the US-Mexico border.After attending the Instituto Tecnologico de Saltillo and earning a degree in engineering, Mr. Berman worked in the computer industry while serving part-time as VIM coordinator for the San Pablo District of the Eastern Conference IMMAR.Willie and his wife Veronica are the parents of two young children. The Bermans attend Ebenezer Church in Reynosa, Mexico.To learn more about Manos Juntas, CLICK HERE.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Before we get to Ben... In the introduction, we spoke about our friend from Quito, Ecuador, Matt Keifer! (Be sure to listen to his episode from Season One!) Matt and his Futbol Club, Casa Deportivo Cumbre Alta, are raising funds for their future expansion. To donate, CLICK HERE.Now... Meet Ben Nelson! You're going to love this story of how WIL met Ben! Yes, this second season is full of people Wil has met throughout his life and ministry!Ben Nelson has been advancing the Kingdom through ministry since his teen years and has been in full time ministry since 2004. He currently serves as the teaching pastor and church planter for the Collectivus church. Collectivus church is a modern day expression of the early church. This faith family are pioneers in the “Missional Community” movement. With over 20 missional communities spread across the greater Birmingham, AL area. They are truly transforming neighborhoods for the Kingdom of God!Ben and his wife Cassidy are the founders of “Pray Love Unite" ministries. This 501c3 ministry houses such ministries as Collectivus and Mission Bulgaria. As president of mission Bulgaria, Pastor Ben helps raise up leaders and missionaries in order to spread the Gospel through the country of Bulgaria. Ben has been married for over 10 years to Cassidy Nelson and has 2 children, Kye and Wendy. They collectively believe that revival begins in the home and spreads to the nations.An effective communicator of God's Word, Pastor Ben is known for his practical and dynamic teaching style which helps people apply the timeless truths of Scripture to their everyday lives. He serves as speaker for conferences and churches locally and abroad. He helps train christian organization in the area of Discipleship, Missional living, church planting, effective communication and more.Learn more about Ben: https://www.pastorbennelson.comLearn more about Collectivus Church: https://www.collectivus.churchMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Wil & Ashley are on location in New Zealand, and this time we're talking to Miki & Randy Brooks!Miki & Randy have helped to plant new churches and restore existing churches all across New Zealand. Randy is the South Pacific Regional Director for New International. He works to organize church plants, mentor, coach and recruit new church planters for both New Zealand and Australia. Along with their involvement in church planting, the Brooks' are involved in day to day ministry in local churches in New Zealand.God has blessed them with 26 years of marriage. Together they have three sons, Noel, Ethan and Caleb.Randy grew up in Colorado Springs, and attended Security Christian Church (now Pikes Peak Christian Church). After working as a welder for four years, God led Him to make a big life change which eventually led to his graduation from Nebraska Christian College in 1995. Randy also attended seminary at Cincinnati Christian University where he graduated in 2003 with an MA in Practical Ministries, with a concentration in church planting.Miki was born in Worthington, Minnesota but grew up as a missionary kid in Johannesburg, South Africa. It was there that she first taught a Sunday School class at age 13. This sparked a passion inside of her for ministry and mission work. She studied ministry and early childhood development at Nebraska Christian College. Miki loves ministry and generally works in the areas of leading worship, speaking to groups, mentoring young ladies, and seeking out ways to encourage and love missionary kids. Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.comS
Oh, did we have fun on this one! And by "we", we mean "Ashley & Sheree." We turn the tables on Wil, and there is heckling, laughter, and so much fun!Meet Sheree Reece! She's the Global Missions Director at Resurrection: A United Methodist Church, specifically overseeing Africa, Asia, and Haiti. Sheree is passionate about encouraging others to be their best selves - whether that is here in the US, or around the world. She is married with 3 adult children, as well as mom to an incredibly sweet dog and very disagreeable cat. She has worked with international community leaders since 2011 and continues to be humbled and inspired by their incredible work, perseverance, and kindness to others. Sheree created her own podcast - Bridging Cultures - to share stories of those doing the incredible work, and the difference they are making in the lives of the most vulnerable. Stories of local leaders who are raising their communities out of poverty will be shared so that others can learn from them and possibly join in on their work. When she's not working or hiding from the cat, she loves running with her friends and watching the sunrise.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Meet Matt Miofsky! Our biggest question... Is there anything Matt cannot do?! Matt Miofsky is the Lead Pastor of The Gathering in St. Louis, Missouri. Since Matt founded The Gathering in 2006, it has grown into a thriving multi-site congregation with four locations scattered throughout St. Louis. With over 1500 in worship a weekend, The Gathering was recently named the 3rd fastest growing large United Methodist Churches.Matt is passionate about church planting, connecting with new generations, and multi-site ministry. He frequently speaks and teaches on these subjects. Matt writes feverishly! We especially love his newest book, The Methodist Book of Daily Prayer.You may also want to pick up these gems:Let Go: Leaning into the Future Without Fear"Eight Virtues of Rapidly Growing Churches" “Happy? What It Is and How to Find It” “Fail: What to Do When Things Go Wrong” And! He's a podcaster! Subscribe to The F Word: Conversations on Faith!When he's not writing, preaching, podcasting, or teaching, he enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Finally! Wil introduces Ashley to one of HIS favorite people -- Joyce McCarty.Joyce is a lover of people, follower of Jesus, consumer of coffee, an ENFP on the MBTI, and an Enneagram 8w7. She is studying at Saint Paul School of Theology and the former Program Director - Latin America at The Church of the Resurrection.Please note: Ashley referred to Oksana Baiul as Russian, when, in fact, she is Ukrainian. Please forgive this misinformation. We apologize for not catching it sooner.
Rebecca Redfield is quite possibly the kindest person we've interviewed on the Broken Banquet podcast! She's a child of God, a daughter, a wife, a neighbor, and most importantly, a dog mom! Plus, she is the Senior Listening, Monitoring, and Evaluation Manager for Hope International.We came to know Rebecca through our friend, Dr. Hunter Farrell, as he quoted her in one of his articles. Of course, we had to read her article right away, and you should, too:To Expand the Table: Listen More. Talk Less.To learn more about Rebecca's organization, Hope International, visit their website at:https://www.hopeinternational.orgMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Challenge Accepted! When Wil asked Ashley to book an interview with his favorite author, it at first seemed like an impossible task. But, within a few hours, Dr. Sherwood Lingenfelter responded! Sherwood G. Lingenfelter retired as provost of Fuller Seminary on June 30, 2011, but continues to serve on Fuller's faculty as senior professor of anthropology. He joined Fuller in 1999 as professor and dean of the School of Intercultural Studies (then the School of World Mission) and served as acting provost in 2001 before being appointed provost in 2002.Before his appointment at Fuller, he served as professor of intercultural studies and provost and senior vice president at Biola University, La Mirada, California from 1983 to 1999 and professor of anthropology at SUNY College at Brockport from 1966 to 1983. He holds a BA from Wheaton College and a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Lingenfelter's field research includes three years in the Yap Islands of Micronesia and short-term research projects with the SIL International in Brazil, Cameroon, and Suriname. He has served as research and training consultant to SIL over the last three decades in Papua New Guinea, Borneo, Philippines, Africa, and Latin America. He also contributes regularly to mission conferences and to missionary candidate training for other evangelical mission organizations. His publications include Teamwork Cross-Culturally: Christ-Centered Solutions for Leading Multinational Teams (coauthored with Julie A. Green, 2022), Leadership in the Way of the Cross: Forging Ministry from the Crucible of Crisis (2018), Ministering Cross-Culturally: A Model for Effective Personal Relationships (coauthored with Marvin K. Mayers, 2016), Transforming Culture: A Challenge for Christian Mission (1998), Agents of Transformation: A Guide for Effective Cross-Cultural Ministry (1996), and Leading Cross-Culturally: Covenant Relationships for Effective Christian Leadership (2008). He also served as coauthor with his wife, Dr. Judith Lingenfelter, for Teaching Cross-Culturally: An Incarnational Model for Learning and Teaching (2003), and with Dr. Paul R. Gupta for Breaking Tradition to Accomplish Vision: Training Leaders for a Church Planting Movement (2006).More from Dr. Sherwood Lingenfelter: https://fullerstudio.fuller.edu/response-judith-sherwood-lingenfelter/Amazon: Buy Ministering Cross-CulturallyMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
We're on location in Auckland, New Zealand, and we are stoked to introduce you to one of our favorite preachers!Reuben Munn is Senior Pastor of Shore Community Church and an Adjunct Lecturer in Practical Theology at Laidlaw College.He holds a degree in Communication Studies from AUT and a Postgraduate Diploma in Theology from Laidlaw College. He also holds a Master of Arts in Theology and a Master of Arts in New Testament Studies from Cincinnati Christian University.Reuben is particularly passionate about the ministry of preaching and the formation of emerging preachers who can clearly, faithfully and creatively expound the Word of God. He is committed to developing pastors and preachers who can equip people to dwell deeply in the biblical story and live this out in the complex realities of everyday life.Reuben spent two years as a public relations consultant before joining the staff of Shore Community Church. He has a thriving preaching ministry and his teaching has featured on Shine TV, Radio Rhema and Prime TV. Since 2014 Reuben has taught courses at Laidlaw College including Introduction to Preaching and Pastoral Leadership.Reuben is married to Anna and they have three boys. He enjoys reading, playing jazz piano and eating Burger Fuel.Learn more about Shore Community Church: https://www.shorecommunity.churchListen to Reuben's great sermons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shore-community-church-podcast/id1346871953Learn from Reuben about preaching: https://www.discipleship.nz/courses/preachingMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Merry Christmas, Broken Banquet listeners! It's become a tradition to take a break from interviews and simply talk about Christmas! YOU continue to be the biggest gift to Wil and Ashley in 2023. We are thankful for those who have joined us as we explore missions and talk about the relationships near and dear to our hearts. Thank you for listening to us, thank you for listening with us. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to introduce you to people we love, who are serving God all over the world by living into their callings. We hope this is just the beginning, as we are looking forward to an incredible 2023!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
We are ON LOCATION in Auckland, New Zealand with two men we love enormously!You first met Nate Hutchison in Season 1, Episode 2.You met Hamish Taylor in Season 1, Episode 8.Nate Hutchison is originally from Kentucky, and now he is a dual citizen of New Zealand and the USA! He and his wife, Whitney, along with their three kiddos, planted their first church in ChristChurch, and are now serving with Church Northwest in Auckland. Nate LOVES basketball. Loves it. Plays it. Watches it. And for some reason pulls for the Kentucky Wildcats.Hamish Taylor, and his wife, Molly, are also church planters in New Zealand. Hamish is a Kiwi! He loves NFL football, specifically the San Francisco 49ers.To learn more about Hamish, Molly, and their work, visit their website:https://www.facebook.com/HamishandMollyTaylorTo learn more about Nate, Whitney, and their work visit their website:http://www.n8andwhitney.comAnd to learn more about their church plant, Church Northwest, visits:https://churchnorthwest.nzMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Friends, we have out-kicked our coverage once again! Dr. Brian Fikkert of When Helping Hurts fame joins us today on the Broken Banquet Podcast, and we are digging into his newest book, Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn't the American Dream.Dr. Brian Fikkert, founder and president of The Chalmers Center, is also Professor of Economics and Community Development and the Founder and President of the Chalmers Center for Economic Development at Covenant College. He is coauthor of the best-selling book When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor…and Yourself, as well as Helping Without Hurting in Short-Term Missions, Helping Without Hurting in Church Benevolence, and From Dependence to Dignity: How to Alleviate Poverty Through Church-Centered Microfinance.Dr. Fikkert earned a Ph.D. in economics from Yale University, specializing in international economics and economic development. He is the author of numerous articles in both academic and popular journals. Prior to coming to Covenant College, he was a professor at the University of Maryland — College Park and a research fellow at the Center for Institutional Reform and the Informal Sector.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Stephanie Robinson is the Outreach Coordinator for Faith to Action Initiative.She has worked in holistic community development and family preservation for 11 years. Her experience has created several initiatives that offer holistic services to community members in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. She is the co-founder of a grassroots organization called Konbit Haiti, which provides localized support to family preservation through supplemental programs. In addition to these programs, Stephanie has also established a social enterprise called Konbit Collective, which helps single parents care for their children though various artisan goods sold through this venture. Stephanie holds a Master's Degree in International Community Development through Northwest University.For more information on Faith to Action Initiative, visit their website:https://www.faithtoaction.orgMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Wil & Ashley have taken their friendship to a whole new level with the creation of Meno Missions! In this episode, we introduce you to the board of directors for Meno Missions and give you a preview of what Meno Missions is all about. Count how many times we say "abide" and you may get a prize!Visit our website to find out more about Meno...Website: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.comMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill Ellis
The Broken Banquet is back for Season Two! Join Wil Bailey & Dr. Ashley Goad for more conversations about the church in mission, what healthy mission relationships can look like, and how abiding with God and neighbor can transform the Church and the world. We can't wait to introduce you to this season two line-up! Authors, theologians, pastors, missionaries, and more!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: menomissions.orgBB Website: https://www.brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Listeners, we've come to the end of Season One, but we have GREAT NEWS! Season Two will begin this Fall 2023! We'll have all new episodes, new interviews, visits from old friends, and exciting twists and turns. Thank you to our faithful listeners. You've been so encouraging and kind as we have journeyed through this podcasting world. We appreciate you, and we love you! Talk to you soon!
In the penultimate episode of the Broken Banquet season one, we have none other than THE Tamara Boone...graduate of Appalachian State University, fellow Student Government Association Cabinet Member and Kazoo Band Marcher... Yes, Tamara & Ashley have known each other for 26 years! Be ready for LOTS of laughter!In 2009, Tamara & Jeremy Boone left the United States for Jinja, Uganda, and soon began serving in a refugee camp-turned-slum called Masese III. The people who live there fled the high deserts to escape war, child abduction, and famine. Decades later, the community still struggles to survive each day and is aid dependent. Though many of them say they are Christians their community is largely devoid of any tangible evidence of God's love. Jeremy and Tamara are sure that God has called and sent them, alongside of others, to share the gospel in word and deed with the hope He will bring His Karamojong children to Himself.Today, the Karamojong in Masese Slum are at risk of being displaced again as the town dismantles the community to make room for development. Nearly everyone is at a loss about where they will go or what they will do. As the community disappears, it is clearer than ever that Jesus' call to disciple is the only way to make a long-term, eternal impact among the Karamojong tribe. Jeremy and Tamara currently seek discipling relationships through three platforms: financial training and job creation, advocacy, and church planting.Since being in Uganda, they have adopted two children, Gloria and Evan, as well as given birth to two more, Karis and Samantha.Jeremy and Tamara also serve as Member Care Associates for Equip International, providing support and encouragement for all Equip missionaries in order to increase their resilience and effectiveness in the field.To learn more about Tamara & Jeremy, check out this video!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Michael loves wrestling with ideas, and thinking about ways to live for God. His passion is for us to be all that God created us be and to transform the world with the Gospel. Michael's background includes pastoral ministry, theological education and cross-cultural mission. Now he oversees the GC3 team. He also works closely with Bright Hope World.Michael is married to Carolyn, and they have four adult children. Carolyn and Michael attend Orewa Community Church in Auckland.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
A graduate of George Fox Evangelical Seminary with a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership & Global Perspective... Yes, that's right! It's another esteemed member of LGP Cohort #4! You've met Dr. John Woodward, Dr. Julie Dodge, Almost-Dr. Stefania Tarasut... and NOW! Meet Dr. Mitch Arbelaez! Mitch has been in ministry since 1989 serving as youth pastor, missions pastor, senior pastor, and now missionary. He's has been a full-time missionary with Go To Nations since 2007 and has spent years traveling and ministering in 29 nations sharing the Great Commission call that is for all.To earn his DMIN, Mitch researched and wrote: Crossing the Great Divide: Advocating for Cultural Intelligence in the Training of Missionaries to Navigate the Missiological Implications of Globalization. His dissertation centers on how cultural intelligence training and assessments can be used to assist international workers in dealing with the implications of globalization. And that's what today's episode is ALL about! Cultural Intelligence! Enjoy, friends!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
We left in all of the outtakes and bloopers today! Hear all the “behind the scenes” chatter!Meet Michelle Osborn!“My sweet husband Andy and precious daughters Madeline and Mary make up my family. I have been privileged to serve as Shreveport's First United Methodist Church Local Missions Director since 2015. My background as an English teacher, stay-at-home mom, and community volunteer prepared me for this calling to work in developing relationships with our non-profit community and church membership as we jointly love our neighbors. We partner with local organizations that help transform the lives of those in poverty – whether a poverty of material needs, spiritual intimacy, being, community, or stewardship. We believe that it is our job to connect to those around us rather than to correct behavior and patterns. Through relationships we find true transformation and can live into whom God calls us to be.”Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Meet Olga Fateeva!! Olga lives in Yekaterinburg, Russia with her husband, Igor, and their two kids, and a dog, and a really large cat! Olga and Ashley have had abundant adventures, including impromptu skydiving and Turkish baths! We can't wait for you to hear her story!See Olga's Video HERE!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Meet Matt Keifer! Of all of the guests on The Broken Banquet, Matt is the newest to the mission field. Hear his call story, the roller coaster journey from Shreveport to Quito, and how he and his family are settling in to their new lives. And bonus! Ashley & Wil give thoughts before AND after the episode! Join us for this wild ride of a Broken Banquet episode!Matt's Sending Organization: Inca LinkSoccer Club: Casa Deportiva Cumbre AltaMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Ashley & Wil couldn't be more excited about today's guest! Duane H. Elmer (PhD, Michigan State) has taught in over seventy-five countries and has provided cross-cultural training to Fortune 500 companies, relief and development agencies, mission organizations, churches, and educational institutions. He previously served as director of the PhD program in educational studies at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Deerfield, Illinois. He has also conducted peace and reconciliation efforts in several countries. His books include Cross-Cultural Conflict, Cross-Cultural Connections, and Cross-Cultural Servanthood. The Elmers live in Winfield, Illinois.Order Dr. Elmer's Books: https://a.co/d/77YfwoKMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
She's a teacher. She's an innovator. She's creative and passionate. She's been a college dean, a social worker, a grant writer, and more. She graduated from George Fox Evangelical Seminary's Doctor of Ministry Program with Dr. John Woodward, Dr. Ashley Goad, and almost-Dr. Stefania Tarasut!Most importantly, Dr. Julie Dodge is an expert in cultural empathy, and this turned into our very first Broken Banquet Teaching Episode! Stay tuned for more!Download Julie's Curriculum, But I Wouldn't Do That.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
She's a wife. She's a mom to 15. She loves Jesus. While she's currently residing in the USA, her heart remains in Uganda. She's authored two New York Times Best Sellers - Kisses from Katie and Daring to Hope. Her third book, Safe All Along, publishes Tuesday, March 28, 2023! That's TOMORROW! She's the founder of Amazima Ministries.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Meet Rev. Patrick Friday! Patrick has served churches across Alabama and around the world. He provides teaching, leadership, and guidance for the church as a whole. Patrick is passionate about sharing the Gospel and bringing others to Christ. He is a graduate of Birmingham-Southern College and Candler School of Theology at Emory University in Atlanta. Currently, Patrick is serving as Lead Pastor at The Church at Cahaba Bend in Birmingham, AL.Patrick and his wife Hannah, a professor of church history, are crazy about their twin boys, Clint and Sam. He loves to play drums and explore God's creation.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Episode 20 of the Broken Banquet! We're celebrating this milestone by reflecting on Palestine, Israel, Greece, and Jordan! Wil & Ashley have returned from the Holy Land, and they can't stop talking about their trip!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Let us introduce you to Chris C.!We love the country that God called us to in Eastern Europe. For years we tried different approaches to build relationships with spiritually hungry people. We met a lot of people through our efforts—that wasn't the problem. They just weren't interested in Jesus or spiritual conversations. We were doing “good” things, but it never led to the discipleship relationships we were looking for.That's when we decided to try media.We learned about a strategy from a team in another country using media to catalyze disciple-making movements—or media to movements for short (M2M). In this strategy, media serves as a way to find and connect with those seeking spiritual answers online. But it doesn't stop there. The goal is to move these relationships offline as quickly as possible and see people become disciples of Jesus who continue making disciples among their friends and family.It took us six months to launch our first campaign… the response we saw exceeded our expectations. In 20 days we had more engagement with spiritually seeking people than the first 10 years combined! It felt like we had been using a small fishing pole and now we had a large net.As a result of our first effort, we realized we needed to build systems for prayer, media development and partnerships to follow-up with those who responded. This has become the OneKingdom team.Since our M2M launch in Bosnia in 2018, God has expanded the use of digital strategies to nearby countries. God continues opening doors to share what we've learned in the Balkan region and we now have coached and are coaching 18 other teams across Europe using this same strategy.Our vision is to see the Great Commission fulfilled in Europe, together. To get there, we want to see media to movement initiatives taking root in all 44 countries in Europe, so that, they too can experience an increase of fruitfulness that ignites a powerful movement of God.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
You've met one Dubberly! Now it's time to meet Brian's other half! Ellyn Benson Dubberly is a missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church serving as a leadership development coordinator in Central America. She was commissioned in June 2013.Ellyn is a native of North Carolina, where she is a member of the First United Methodist Church of Rocky Mount in the North Carolina Annual Conference. She received a Bachelor of Social Work from APPALACHIAN STATE UNIVERSITY in Boone, North Carolina, and a master's degree in Christian Education from Pfeiffer University, Charlotte, in 2011. She also holds a United Methodist certification in Chrisitan education and children's ministry. Ellyn has worked as a pre-kindergarten teacher, and from 2005 to 2013 was director of children's ministries at her church in Rocky Mount.Her parents exposed Ellyn to mission at an early age and she came to understand, she says, that “God's love is way bigger than his love for me and my loved ones; that it stretched across the world.” She says that God has given her a desire to share her gifts with others. “I am humbled to be a light of Christ wherever he plants me, and am strengthened by faithful trust in the powerful presence of the Holy Spirit.”Her first mission trip was to Puerto Rico when she was in the fourth grade, the first of many such experiences. “The majority of our work was throughout Central America,” she recalls. “I remember struggling to understand why there were people with so little, when I saw so much materialism in my home country….Then I realized that while others might be poor in material things, I was poor in spiritual things. The people I met on those earliest trips were a witness to me of the joy that is present in a living, dedicated relationship with Jesus Christ.”Ellyn's interest in Central America began with her husband, Brian, who felt called to serve the young church there as a long-term volunteer. At first, he planned to spend three months in Central America and three at home, but came to realize more concentrated attention was needed there. The couple moved toward Ellyn becoming a missionary in the place where she had received such a warm welcome when visiting Brian.In Central America, Ellyn was drawn in by the way in which the church includes children, youth, and women in worship. There are several women pastors. Young people are actively involved in worship leadership and evangelism. “My heart melted in Communion when all the children were served first, a beautiful reminder of Jesus welcoming children in his arms and blessing them,” she says.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
David McCormick is a missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church. He is serving alongside his wife Elizabeth as Mission Advocate for the South Central Jurisdiction. David was commissioned in May 2016 and previously served as Hospital Director of Chicuque Rural Hospital in Mozambique. He and his family currently reside in North Little Rock, Arkansas.Taking up a call to serve the least, the last, and the lost, David strives to live into John Wesley's words to “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.” As Mission Advocate, David will come alongside conferences and local churches to encounter the Holy Spirit through missional information and mission opportunities. His guidance focuses on healthy partnerships which lead to sustainable mission projects and missionary support.David is a Texan by birth, but lived for many years in Louisiana, where he is a member of Grace Community United Methodist Church in Shreveport in the Louisiana Annual Conference. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Centenary College of Louisiana, Shreveport. From 2004 to 2016, he was a claims specialist for the American Modern Insurance Group, and earlier worked as a marketing representative with Portamedic Medical Services.David was born into the United Methodist Church, which provided the opportunity for growth in grace and active participation in the Christian community. He developed a deep faith that sculpted his views of service, love, and salvation. He was active on the annual conference and jurisdictional levels of youth ministry. After graduation from a United Methodist-related college he returned to his home church, where he was involved with young adult groups and realized a call to international mission. His special call began during a mission journey to Honduras.It was during the trip to Honduras that David made two important realizations: “the sense of peace and a tug at the heart while in the mission environment and, second, the love of my now wife, Elizabeth.” Participation in the Disciple's Path and The 7 Experiment, small-group experiences, convinced David and Elizabeth to trust God and become missionaries.The couple has two children, Eva and Annie.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Wil & Ashley are off to the Holy Land today! Hear their reflections on previous trips, and what they're looking forward to most!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Jessica Weaver is the Europe Regional Director for TeachBeyond. Or... does she work for the CIA?! She lives in Prague, Czech Republic. She oversees all of the work done in Europe with TeachBeyond, which has over 40 projects in 18 countries. She works closely with leaders in these projects, ensuring the mission, vision, and values of TeachBeyond is being represented well. Jessica is passionate about empowering potential in leaders and members, encouraging them to be all that God intends. You can find out more about TeachBeyond at www.teachbeyond.org.Jessica grew up in Texarkana, TX. When she isn't working you can find her reading a good book or cooking, especially Tex-Mex. She also loves traveling, writing, listening to podcasts, and laughing! She especially laughs while listening to the the Broken Banquet Podcast!To learn more about TeachBeyond, visit https://vimeo.com/showcase/4050310/video/235394984.To learn more about Jessica, visithttps://vimeo.com/showcase/4050310/video/185798930.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Some call me Dr. Ashley Goad, but most simply know me as Ashley. Raised in High Point, North Carolina, I grew up attending Springfield Friends Meeting, the Quaker church my great-great-great-great grandparents planted in 1773. If you spend more than 5 minutes with me, I'll likely work three things into the conversation: Jesus, Mission, and Quakers!I graduated from Appalachian State University in 2001 with a BS in Political Science, and then went on to Liberty Theological Seminary to earn a Masters of Divinity. In 2016, with a dissertation entitled, “Mind the Gap: Navigating the Pitfalls of Cross-Cultural Partnership,” I completed a Doctor of Ministry in Leadership and Global Perspective at George Fox Evangelical Seminary. While I was recorded (“ordained”) as a Quaker pastor in North Carolina, I am now officially “on loan” to the Louisiana Conference of the United Methodist Church. In church lingo, this designation is “Other Fellowship. My theology is sometimes very confused, though, as I have served at Pine Hill Friends Meeting (NC), ChristChurch Presbyterian (TX), and Herndon UMC (VA)!Haiti is my second home, and mission is where my heart is. Since 2009, I have logged over 40 trips to Haiti, most in service with Living Waters for the World and Solar Under the Sun, partnering ministries who seek to bring solar-powered clean water systems to communities in need. While in the Port-Au-Prince, Haiti airport in 2013, I met the team from First United Methodist Church in Shreveport. The church had begun to vision what a global mission ministry would look like, and for me, this was a dream job. I joined the FUMC staff on August 1, 2013, and have not stopped traveling the world since. With guidance and prayer from the Global Mission ministry leadership team, First UMC has created partnerships in Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Romania, Czech Republic, Uganda, and Costa Rica, while continuing their work in my beloved Haiti.The biggest celebration in my life came on January 31, 2020, when I married Christopher Harbuck! We have a sweet black lab named Molly. I am also “mom” to Mackenson, who lives in Haiti, and Chris has two children, Palmer & Kit.Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Rob, an American, and Lynne, an Australian, have been in ministry for over 30 years. They returned to Australia in 2007 to plant a new Church in Cameron Park, a residential area of Newcastle, Australia, located 2 hours north of Sydney. Rob and Lynne now are the directors of Australian Christian Mission, which partners with South Pacific Christian Fellowship. Rob serves as a chaplain at elementary schools, teaches Scripture classes, and leads worship on Sunday at North Lakes. Lynne is a nurse. They also have three kids, and five grandkids, plus a precious golden lab, Charlie.To learn more about Rob & Lynne, check out this video: https://vimeo.com/showcase/4050310/video/341838187Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Wil Bailey is a Missionary serving in Costa Rica. He received his Master of Divinity degree from Duke University Divinity School in May of 2003 and has been commissioned as a United Methodist Volunteers in Mission Individual Volunteer. His wife, Yolanda, is an active, life-long member of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica.Wil went to Costa Rica for the first time when he was 15 years old with a United Methodist Volunteers in Missions youth work team. He went back every chance he got, and by the time he moved to Costa Rica in 2003, he had been 14 times. The majority of those trips were mission work teams. Wil says, "I have known since that first trip that doing mission work in Central America would always be a part of my life." Wil has also been on work teams to Honduras and Belize and spent the Summer of 2001 working with the Methodist Church of Southern Africa in Johannesburg, South Africa.Wil spent the Summer of 2002 back in Costa Rica living with a pastor and his family in San Isidro. It was over the course of those three-and-a-half months that God showed Wil that there was a ministry for him in Costa Rica. The week before he left to come back to the States to finish seminary, Wil met with Bishop Fernando Palomo in San Jose, and the Bishop invited him to come to work full-time as a part of the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica.In March of 2014 Wil and Yolanda were overjoyed to welcome the newest member of the Costa Rica Mission Projects family, Isabella Caroline Bailey Ulloa. Wil and Yolanda believe that when Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, he taught us, in dramatic fashion, that if we claim to be His followers, we must be servants to one another. Christian service comes in many forms and they believe that they have been called to provide opportunities for churches in Costa Rica and churches from other countries to serve one another and explore what it means for us to be part of a body that extends far beyond the walls of our own individual churches. Their hope is that they might be able to help foster long lasting, fruitful relationships between the congregations who participate in this ministry. It is very important to them that they avoid establishing or reinforcing already existing relationships of dependency, but rather, that the churches involved will discover the benefits of interaction with one another. They understand the communion that takes place across borders, cultures and languages as a glimpse of God's Kingdom and as a sign of the work of the Holy Spirit among us.To learn more about Wil & Yolanda, watch:https://youtu.be/o73CY-x06Y4To learn more about Costa Rica Mission Projects, visit:http://costaricamissionprojects.comMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Hunter Farrell is the co-author of Freeing Congregational Mission: A Practical Vision for Companionship, Cultural Humility, and Co-Development.Hunter is also the Director of Pittsburgh Theological Seminary's World Mission Initiative. He worked for thirty-four years as a missionary (in DR Congo and Peru), mission leader (Director of World Mission for the Presbyterian Church, U.S.A.), and teacher of mission and intercultural studies (Pittsburgh Theological Seminary). He developed fluency in three languages (Spanish, French and Tshiluba) and earned his Master of Divinity in Cross-Cultural Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary, the Diplôme d'études approfondies in religious anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris and a doctorate in anthropology from the Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú.While living overseas, he received more than sixty short-term mission groups and studied the complex and nuanced interactions between U.S. visitors and Congolese and Peruvian hosts. He has researched and written articles on congregational mission engagement that have been published in Missiology: An International Review, The Journal of Latin American Theology and Christianity Today. He speaks frequently to groups of congregational mission leaders to better understand their concerns and offer them tools to lead their congregations into more faithful and effective mission.To learn more about Freeing Congregational Mission, visit the website:https://freeingmission.comTo buy the book, visit:https://a.co/d/21CrJmkMusic by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Stefania, and her husband, Dragos, serve Christ in Bucharest, Romania. You're going to love her honesty, her authenticity, and why she thinks "missionaries are the worst!" You'll also learn how God called her to serve her homeland of Romania, and why she preaches, "Christ didn't die for me to be comfortable."To learn more about Stefania, view her videos, that she absolutely loves filming:https://vimeo.com/showcase/4050310/video/235960100https://vimeo.com/showcase/4050310/video/185280043Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
Merry Christmas, Broken Banquet listeners. YOU have been the biggest gift to Wil and Ashley in 2022. We are thankful for those who have joined us as we explore missions and talk about the relationships near and dear to our hearts. Thank you for listening to us, thank you for listening with us. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to introduce you to people we love, who are serving God all over the world by living into their callings. We hope this is just the beginning, as we are looking forward to an incredible 2023!Music by: Irene & the SleepersLogo by: Jill EllisWebsite: brokenbanquetpodcast.comContact Us: brokenbanquetpodcast@gmail.com
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