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3 episodes with alpha usa
3 episodes with alpha usa
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2 episodes with alpha usa
2 episodes with alpha usa
2 episodes with alpha usa
John Wentz leads Alpha USA. Alpha is in over 150 countries and in the past thirty years about 35 million people have participated in Alpha groups. Last year over two million people went through their program. Alpha works in a prison cell, a refugee camp, a bar, a school, a neighborhood home, or a church. The secret to their evangelism success is asking questions and caring for people. On today's episode of The Evangelism Podcast you will hear some amazing testimonies about what God has done through Alpha. The Alpha program creates a safe, non-judgmental space for people to explore the Christian faith through meals, short talks, and open discussion. Alpha has been effective at reaching people outside the church by genuinely listening to their questions and struggles. Testimonies show how the welcoming community and focus on relationship rather than doctrinal correction can lead to life-transforming encounters with Jesus, even among the most resistant participants. Alpha's approach of empowering ordinary believers to invite friends and create this kind of environment has enabled its rapid global expansion and lasting impact. Questions we talk about: What is Alpha? What are some of the hard questions that people talk about in Alpha groups? What are some testimonies of how people are being reached through Alpha and perhaps you could share some statistics about the impact Alpha is having? What is your testimony? How did you come to know the Lord? How did you get involved with Alpha? Describe the philosophy behind how Alpha functions. How did Nicky Gumbel change Alpha from a course for new believers into a course for people outside the church? What is it about our culture today that makes Alpha's approach so effective? If someone wants to start an Alpha group or support your ministry, what would be the best way for them to get connected with you?
David Thomas was a business professional before becoming an ordained pastor, serving in both the local church and on staff with Seedbed Publishing and the New Room Conference. He serves on the Board of Alpha USA and helps to steward a new movement on college campuses called The Awakening Project. I've known David for years and can attest to his passion for seeing an awakened spirit in the Church of Jesus Christ. Today, we talk about a piece he wrote that got my attention and interest on Methodism as an awakening movement.
Mariah Humphries wraps up Season 8 of Peace Talks with a post-election episode with Bishop Todd Hunter, founder of the Center. They discuss a range of topics but begin with an article that was written by Bishop Hunter the morning after the election and some feedback given to him about the message and the timing of that messageThe Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others and founder of The Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. He is past president of Alpha USA, former national director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is the author of Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, Our Character at Work and Deep Peace.» Subscribe to PEACE TALKS Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/peace-talks/id1590168616About the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace:Justice and peace come from the inside out—from the overflow of a transformed heart. This belief led our founder, Bishop Todd Hunter, to start the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace in 2021. The Center brings together a diverse, interdenominational community of people who want to be formed in love to heal a broken world. Because “religion” is often part of the problem, we've created a brave, Jesus-centered space for dialogue, questioning, creating, and exploration. PEACE TALKS introduces you to women and men who are working to undo oppression, leading to lives of deeper peace for all.*Connect with The Center Online!*Visit The Center's Website: https://centerfjp.orgFollow The Center on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/centerfjpFollow The Center on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CenterFjpFollow The Center on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/centerfjp/Support the show
In Ryan Kenedy's debut novel, The Blameless (University of Wisconsin Press 2023 ) we meet Virginia, an exhausted adjunct professor and divorced mother of an autistic five-year-old, whose father only takes him for one weekend a month. Virginia is lonely and struggling to make a living as an adjunct professor of English. When she learns that the man who murdered her father has been released from prison despite a life sentence, she decides to confront him and mete out his just punishment. She traces Travis Hilliard to a remote place in the Mojave Desert. He's inherited his uncle's trailer on an isolated strip of land and is trying to rebuild his life outside of prison. Because Virginia doesn't have anyone to care for her little boy, she brings him along for the confrontation. Ryan Kenedy was born and raised in the working-class neighborhoods of California's Central Valley. He holds an MFA in fiction writing from California State University, Fresno, and has taught writing and literature for over twenty-five years, both as an adjunct instructor and as a tenured faculty member. He currently teaches at Moorpark College. His short fiction is forthcoming in the North Dakota Quarterly and has appeared in North American Review, The Greensboro Review, Sou'wester, and The San Joaquin Review. His debut collection of short fiction, Don't Let Them Fall, will be published in 2025 by Johns Hopkins University Press. When he's not teaching or writing, Ryan likes strumming his Gibson guitar and watching the Dodgers on television, biking and kayaking with his wife of twenty-eight years, visiting his son in the heart of New York City, and hiking the forest trails of Washington State. As a volunteer with Alpha USA, Ryan creates opportunities for community members to engage in honest conversations about some of life's biggest questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
In Ryan Kenedy's debut novel, The Blameless (University of Wisconsin Press 2023 ) we meet Virginia, an exhausted adjunct professor and divorced mother of an autistic five-year-old, whose father only takes him for one weekend a month. Virginia is lonely and struggling to make a living as an adjunct professor of English. When she learns that the man who murdered her father has been released from prison despite a life sentence, she decides to confront him and mete out his just punishment. She traces Travis Hilliard to a remote place in the Mojave Desert. He's inherited his uncle's trailer on an isolated strip of land and is trying to rebuild his life outside of prison. Because Virginia doesn't have anyone to care for her little boy, she brings him along for the confrontation. Ryan Kenedy was born and raised in the working-class neighborhoods of California's Central Valley. He holds an MFA in fiction writing from California State University, Fresno, and has taught writing and literature for over twenty-five years, both as an adjunct instructor and as a tenured faculty member. He currently teaches at Moorpark College. His short fiction is forthcoming in the North Dakota Quarterly and has appeared in North American Review, The Greensboro Review, Sou'wester, and The San Joaquin Review. His debut collection of short fiction, Don't Let Them Fall, will be published in 2025 by Johns Hopkins University Press. When he's not teaching or writing, Ryan likes strumming his Gibson guitar and watching the Dodgers on television, biking and kayaking with his wife of twenty-eight years, visiting his son in the heart of New York City, and hiking the forest trails of Washington State. As a volunteer with Alpha USA, Ryan creates opportunities for community members to engage in honest conversations about some of life's biggest questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literature
This month, Ben sits down for a fascinating conversation with John Wentz, the CEO of Alpha USA. John shares the path that led him to this significant assignment and how we all need to hear, “You're not crazy!”, if we're going to pursue a big vision. We talk about getting the right why, what, and how people around our table. John explains that how you make your decisions is often even more important than what decision you make.
Shauna Pilgreen, along with her husband, Ben, coleads Epic Church, a multiethnic congregation in the heart of San Francisco. She serves on the teaching team at Epic and as a network director for Alpha USA. She writes for "Everyday evangelists" on her blog. She joins the show to talk about her book "Translating Jesus." Copyright WGNR Radio 2024See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Jesus Intended: Finding True Faith in the Rubble of Bad ReligionTodd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others and the founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is past President of Alpha USA and former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches. He is author of Christianity Beyond Belief, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican and Our Favorite Sins. Todd has been an adjunct professor of evangelism, leadership in contemporary culture and spiritual formation at George Fox University, Fuller Seminary, Western Seminary, Vanguard University, Azusa Pacific University, Biblical Seminary and Wheaton College. In addition, he has been a Distinguished Lecturer at several institutions of higher learning. Todd and his family live in Costa Mesa, California.
It's been nearly 45 years ago that I attended a jazz concert sponsored by a Sacramento area church. I was invited to it by my boss, Jim. I had been working for him for a year or two at the Magic Tunnel Car Wash. It was at that concert that Jim's life, shaped as it was by his love for Jesus, came to make sense to me. When someone asked me why I'd come forward at the end of the concert, my answer was simply, “I want what Jim has.” It was that simple focus on Jesus in Jim's life and in that little community that drew me into a new way of living and, eventually, into the vocational focus of my life. And refocusing on Jesus along my journey has been what has renewed me, even revived me, when my life began to feel heavy, or wayward, or empty. All of this is why I'm so happy to be talking with Todd Hunter, my bishop and my friend, about his new book What Jesus Intended: Finding True Faith in the Rubble of Bad Religion. Doesn't that title speak to where so many of us find ourselves these days? The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founder of The Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. He is past president of Alpha USA, former national director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is the author of many books, including Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, Our Character at Work and Deep Peace. He writes a weekly newsletter, The Gospel of the Kingdom, that you can find on Substack. Todd also happens to be my bishop and my friend. _________________________________________________________Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website.
In this episode, Shauna Pilgreen and I have a conversation around topics and themes from her latest book Translating Jesus. We talk about how to be translators and speak of Jesus in a way that culture can understand. We talk about being curious, paying attention, and being intentional to listen to the Holy Spirit and the person in front of us. She talks about three different spaces where we can encounter Jesus: the gate, the cross, and the table. Join us as we learn how we can start talking to people about Jesus, so that they will start talking to Jesus.Shauna Pilgreen, along with her husband, Ben, coleads Epic Church, a multiethnic congregation in the heart of San Francisco. She serves on the teaching team at Epic and as a network director for Alpha USA. She writes for "everyday evangelists" on her blog. Learn more at www.shaunapilgreen.com.Shauna's Book:Translating JesusShauna's Recommendations:The Alchemist Alastair McGrathBasic Christianity by John StottThe ChosenConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Threads at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/https://twitter.com/shiftingcultur2https://www.threads.net/@shiftingculturepodcastConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below.Support the show
Listen in as Lisa interviews Shauna Pilgreen. Along with her husband, Ben, Shauna coleads Epic Church, a multiethnic congregation in the heart of San Francisco. She serves on the teaching team at Epic and as a network director for Alpha USA. Today we hear about her new book, "Translating Jesus: How to share your faith in language today's culture can understand." Join Lisa and Shauna as they discuss what it looks like to engage with our current culture for the sake of bringing others into relationship with Jesus. Shauna Pilgreen
Listen in as Lisa interviews Shauna Pilgreen. Along with her husband, Ben, Shauna coleads Epic Church, a multiethnic congregation in the heart of San Francisco. She serves on the teaching team at Epic and as a network director for Alpha USA. Today we hear about her new book, "Translating Jesus: How to share your faith in language today's culture can understand." Join Lisa and Shauna as they discuss what it looks like to engage with our current culture for the sake of bringing others into relationship with Jesus. Shauna Pilgreen
This world is hungry for Jesus, but how can you share your faith with those around you? Shauna Pilgreen is the co-leader of Epic Church and serves as the network director for Alpha USA. She is also the author of the book Translating Jesus: How to Share Your Faith in Language Today's Culture Can Understand. Join me and Shauna Pilgreen as we discuss the importance of Christians engaging with the world and sharing their faith in a relevant and understandable way to today's culture. Shauna shares personal stories of how she has seen God work through her interactions with others, emphasizing the power of listening and loving people where they are. "Jesus is a person you can know and with whom you can have a relationship. He is the truth. Your search can end here, and you can spend your remaining life getting to know him personally," said Pilgreen. Listen to hear testimonies from Shauna's life and mighty prayer in the end. CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Shauna Pilgreen Translating Jesus: How to Share Your Faith in Language Today's Culture Can Understand, Website, Facebook, Instagram, Share a Story RESOURCE: Are you a new believer and don't know where to start? New Believer Workbook: Foundational Gospel Truths To Begin Your Relationship With Jesus Will equip you as you begin the most beautiful relationship of your life. ABOUT: Christina Perera Ministries SOCIAL CONNECT: Facebook, Instagram & YouTube @christinapereraministries MORE RESOURCES: I want to empower you with additional resources to deepen your walk with Jesus! At the Feet of Jesus: Worship & Prayer Journal: Take your faith to the next level as you record your time with Jesus. 52 Week/Day Creative Journal Are you a new believer and don't know where to start? New Believer Workbook: Foundational Gospel Truths To Begin Your Relationship With Jesus Will equip you as you begin the most beautiful relationship of your life. ADDITIONAL READING: Building Your Life on Jesus: The Power of Authenticity, Repentance, Co-Creation, and Grace in Building Faith that Lasts By Christina Perera & Discovering the Power of God's Redeeming Grace For Your Life By Christina Perera CPM EVENTS & OUTREACHES: Miracles Tour Photos & Contemporary Christian Music Magazine article! SUPPORT: We can only bring you this faith-building podcast with your financial gifts. Share the gospel of Jesus Christ by sponsoring an episode of Revealing Jesus! Support Revealing Jesus and honor your loved one's special day. Get a special on-air dedication to your loved one! CONNECT: It's your turn to join the conversation on Revealing Jesus; tell us your burning questions about Jesus, your favorite Christian leaders, and your testimonies of God's goodness! STORE: Get your favorite gear from the store and help our ministry initiatives unite and reach a hurting world!
The DisipleShift Conference is happening this September in St. John, Indiana! If you're a missional parish, you will not want to miss this opportunity to learn, grow, and increase the impact you have on the world around you. On this week's podcast, Ron is joined by Fr. Sammie Maletta & Khalil Hattar. Their team at St. John the Evangelist Parish is hosting this awesome conference in partnership with Alpha USA. The whole event is focused on one key objective: Inspiring parish leadership that makes disciples. There's something incredible that happens when leaders come together and learn from one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. If your parish is on the missionary renewal journey, this podcast will give you five big reasons to consider attending the DiscipleShift Conference this September! ➝ Interested in attending the DiscipleShift Conference? Learn more and get tickets at https://discipleshiftconference.com. ➝ Want to connect with the team at St. John the Evangelist Parish? Visit https://stjohnparish.org.
Todd Hunter is the founding Bishop of an Anglican diocese called Churches for the Sake of Others. His spirituality has been raised up through leadership in Alpha USA, so he has been formed by that deep heart for gospel-centered evangelism. His native language is Kingdom, justice, peace, Spirit-empowered leadership and missional ecclesiology. And his passions play out in places like The Center for Formation, Justice and Peace, which he founded … and in seminaries and universities all over the country where he participates in training up the next generation of spiritually formed, justice-seeking followers of Jesus. Bishop Hunter is a gift to the Church, and his latest book — What Jesus Intended: Finding True Faith in the Rubble of Bad Religion — is written to call that Church to become all it is meant to be.
In this episode, Todd Hunter talks about the aims of Jesus and how getting back to His purposes can help us through bad religion. We talk about living in the Kingdom of God, how we receive it and how we are sent to be His witnesses, and many other facets of the Kingdom. We talk about spiritual practices, so that we can do good works when moments present themselves. We talk about the gospel – what it is, what Jesus said it is and how we can live into it. Bishop Todd Hunter's life-long passion is to help others heed the call of Jesus to “come follow me” and thus to live their life in the kingdom of God as Jesus embodied, taught and demonstrated it. Bishop Hunter's vision for such a life entails being the cooperative friend of Jesus, seeking to live a life of constant creative goodness, for the sake of others, through the power of the Holy Spirit.This overarching vision has led Bishop Hunter to engage deeply with a few core themes:The Gospel of the Kingdom The person and work of the Holy Spirit The nature and purpose of the church at the intersection of gospel and culture (missional ecclesiology) Spiritual formation as core to discipleship to Jesus Servant-hearted, kingdom-minded, Spirit-empowered leadershipBishop Hunter has expressed his kingdom-Spirit-formation-church-culture focus in various settings. He is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others, a diocese of the Anglican Church in North America. He writes a weekly newsletter: “The Gospel of the Kingdom.” Bishop Hunter is past President of Alpha USA, former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, California. He is the author of Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins and Our Character at Work. His latest book is What Jesus Intended: Finding Faith in the Rubble of Bad Religion.Bishop Hunter is also the founder of the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. Alongside trauma-informed spiritual director Vanessa Sadler, Bishop Todd hosts Peace Talks, a podcast that spotlights women and men who are working to undo oppression, leading to lives of deeper peace for all.Bishop Hunter holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and has served as an adjunct professor of evangelism, leadership in contemporary culture and spiritual formation at George Fox University, Fuller Seminary, Western Seminary, Vanguard University, Azusa Pacific University, Northern Seminary, and Wheaton College. Bishop Hunter and his wife Debbie live in Franklin, Tennessee. They have two adult children.Todd's Book:What Jesus Intended: Finding True Faith in the Rubble of Bad ReligionConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook or Instagram at www.facebook.com/shiftingculturepodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/shiftingculturepodcast/Consider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below.Support the show
John Wentz, Executive Director of Alpha USA, spent the day with us to tell his story of how a desire to disprove Christianity ended up becoming a turning point for coming to faith in Jesus.
Right alongside the name Billy Graham when it comes to discussions on evangelism, is the name Luis Palau. Luis was a passionate evangelist who preached in over 80 different countries, and saw millions of people come to know Jesus before his death in March of 2021. Carrying forward the spirit of Luis' ministry is his son Kevin Palau. Kevin, who now runs the Luis Palau Association, is an incredible leader who has helped form profound gospel movements in secular cities; movements that in certain instances engaged over 200 churches and 32,000 people in over 300 service projects. Join Kevin and Jason as they discuss how Luis finished his life, the postures that contribute to gospel movements, working with municipalities for the sake of a city & countless stories of Jesus using the “yes” of people to bring His Kingdom to earth. We hope this episode encourages you and gives you vision for the impact that's possible in your community. Bio | Kevin Palau is President and CEO of the Luis Palau Association. Under his leadership, LPA has united tens of thousands of churches in hundreds of cities to love and serve their communities and clearly share the Good News of Jesus. Kevin also helps lead TogetherPDX, a sustainable, united movement of churches in Portland, Oregon. His book, Unlikely: Setting Aside Our Differences to Live Out the Gospel describes the ongoing impact of the movement. Kevin lives in Beaverton, Oregon with his wife, Michelle, and enjoys serving on the boards of Alpha USA, Christians Against Poverty, and Transforming the Bay with Christ. Give today to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Help solve the global food crisis by giving gifts of Compassion today or get in touch with the team at Compassion. Show Notes: Luis Palau Association TogetherPDX Get Connected! Blog & Episode write-up Website Join our Mailing List! Subscribe on YouTube Follow on Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story
Kevin Palau is President and CEO of the Luis Palau Association. Under his leadership, LPA has united tens of thousands of churches in hundreds of cities to love and serve their communities and clearly share the Good News of Jesus. During Kevin's time at LPA he has also helped develop a global network of thousands of partner evangelists. Kevin helps lead TogetherPDX, a sustainable, united movement of churches in Portland, Oregon. His book, Unlikely: Setting Aside Our Differences to Live Out the Gospel describes the ongoing impact of the movement. Kevin lives in Beaverton, Oregon with his wife, Michelle, and enjoys serving on the boards of Alpha USA, Cedar Mill Bible Church, Christians Against Poverty, and Transforming the Bay with Christ. In this podcast, Kevin Palau talks about how the Luis Palau Association continues to flourish as God blesses their ministry's impact worldwide. He also shares how, in the last few years, he personally has grown to more greatly experience the love and joyful freedom of God's wonderful presence. Kevin concludes by encouraging us Christians here in America to be more open to lovingly share the Gospel with the people in our lives who don't yet know Him. Satan will try to discourage us, but God's power and love are so much stronger!
Kevin Palau is President and CEO of the Luis Palau Association. Under his leadership, LPA has united tens of thousands of churches in hundreds of cities to love and serve their communities and clearly share the Good News of Jesus. During Kevin's time at LPA he has also helped develop a global network of thousands of partner evangelists. Kevin helps lead TogetherPDX, a sustainable, united movement of churches in Portland, Oregon. His book, Unlikely: Setting Aside Our Differences to Live Out the Gospel describes the ongoing impact of the movement. Kevin lives in Beaverton, Oregon with his wife, Michelle, and enjoys serving on the boards of Alpha USA, Cedar Mill Bible Church, Christians Against Poverty, and Transforming the Bay with Christ. In this podcast, Kevin Palau talks about how the Luis Palau Association continues to flourish as God blesses their ministry's impact worldwide. He also shares how, in the last few years, he personally has grown to more greatly experience the love and joyful freedom of God's wonderful presence. Kevin concludes by encouraging us Christians here in America to be more open to lovingly share the Gospel with the people in our lives who don't yet know Him. Satan will try to discourage us, but God's power and love are so much stronger!
How do we effectively mobilize our communities around mission, while understanding the realities of the new post-lockdown world we live in? It's no secret that the world has changed since Covid. And when it comes to church leadership, that change can be really hard to navigate. I had the privilege of speaking with Dan McCarty on this week's podcast. After serving internationally with Alpha Ireland through the pandemic, Dan now serves churches and church leaders locally with Alpha USA. He's passionate about helping parishes and churches from all denominations to reach the lost and fulfill the Great Commission. Dan shares his journey into communion with the Catholic Church, as well as his hopes for his impact in his new role. This conversation paints a beautiful picture of how churches and parishes can learn from each other and work together to be more effective in building God's Kingdom.
Todd Proctor (founder of Rock Harbor church and Executive Leader with Alpha USA) sits down with Glenn Packiam to talk about discipling young leaders, preparing your church for leadership transitions and the changes he's seen in the culture of churches using Alpha as an evangelism tool.Want to learn more about the Resilient Pastor initiative? Home PagePodcastBookWatch this episode on Youtube: Barna GroupFollow Barna at:Instagram: @barnagroupTwitter: @barnagroupFacebook: Barna GroupGloo: Find out more about the He Gets Us initiative at hegetsuspartners.com/churches.Full Strength Network: Learn more about the wellbeing membership program that FSN created for pastors at www.fullstrength.org.
Have you ever gotten to a place in life where you've had a moment to reflect on your journey and the decisions you made, or didn't make, to get you to where you are today? Oftentimes, when having conversations with others who have been walking in faith for more than a few years, they can point back to pivotal moments where they saw God divinely orchestrate the details as they took steps forward. Even getting to pause to look back and see the ways things pieced together can be eye opening and hopefully life-giving when you see that truly every step of your journey got you to where you are now. And even the moments you wish you could unwrite, were pivotal in bringing you to this present moment in time. In today's conversation I get to dive into the seemingly unlikely ways God would move and have favor over a ministry, that started simply through a prayer and a desire to bring the loving and life saving message of Jesus to others through a life surrendered to what God could do. Today I have the honor and privilege of connecting with a gentleman I had the chance to work for years and years ago but also thrilled to share more about the ministry He is leading as President and CEO. Kevin Palau is President and CEO of the Luis Palau Association. Kevin joined LPA in 1985 and began directing the day-to-day operation of the ministry in the late 1990s. Under his leadership, LPA has united tens of thousands of churches in hundreds of cities to love and serve their communities and clearly share the Good News of Jesus. During Kevin's time at LPA he has also helped develop a global network of hundreds of partner evangelists and launched a City Gospel Movements effort that helps unite churches to serve their city and proclaim the Good News on an ongoing basis. Kevin helps lead TogetherPDX, a sustainable, united movement of churches in Portland, Oregon. His book, Unlikely: Setting Aside Our Differences to Live Out the Gospel describes the ongoing impact of the movement. He lives in Beaverton, Oregon with his wife, Michelle, and enjoys serving on the boards of Alpha USA, Christians Against Poverty, and Transforming the Bay with Christ.) Looking back over the years of incredible moments that God has showed his unrelenting favor and has pieced so many things together; Im sure has been a sweet reminder of God's intricate hand at work through the many years of ministry with Luis Palau Association. As you listen today, I hope you're not only inspired and encouraged by the incredible work and ministry of LPA, and stories Kevin has to share. But also get to spend some time today thinking through where YOU have seen God intricately work details together in your life to bring you to where you are today. LEARN MORE ABOUT Luis Palau Association. Visit their website, palau.org. Follow LPA on Instagram or Facebook: @LuisPalauLive. Learn more about City Movements or Hope with God or the Global Network of Evangelists, here. Lastly, the new media partnership with LPA, HeGetsUs.com ENJOY THIS EPISODE?? We'd love for you to RATE & REVIEW and SHARE! COME SAY HI on Instagram at The Places Between here. Did you know The Places Between offers Retreats? We're headed to Costa Rica in 2023. Learn more at ThePlacesBetween.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/theplacesbetween/support
In this episode of We Are Vineyard, Jay chats with Todd Proctor about the shaping effects of worship on his life, how the changing worship culture intersected with his discovery of the Vineyard, and his first experience with prophetic prayer ministry. Todd shares about the mentoring he received from Don Williams, and his belief that impactful relational moments are key for investing in the upcoming generation of leaders. Jay and Todd talk about their shared love of Alpha, some interesting things Todd is noticing happening through the ministry right now, and the surprising community impacts that churches are seeing as Alpha becomes part of their church culture. As Executive Vice President of Strategic Church Engagement, Todd Proctor has served on Alpha USA's leadership team for seven years. He is passionate about creating experiences and facilitating conversations that help key leaders reposition their communities for evangelistic impact in an increasingly post-Christian reality. Prior to joining Alpha, Todd founded Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, CA, where he served for 15 years as Lead Pastor. He experienced Alpha's impact firsthand, as Rockharbor became a pioneering hub church for the organization in the Southern California region. Todd watched as Alpha created a safe space for members to openly discuss matters of faith, as well address needed cultural shifts in the church in areas such as hospitality, relational evangelism and dependence on the Holy Spirit. A natural networker, Todd has had the opportunity to build bridges with leaders and communities across the nation. In collaboration with the Exponential Conference, Todd co-authored the book, “Empowered,” which offers pastoral perspectives on life and leadership in the Spirit. Todd received a bachelor's degree in Communication from Biola University, where he met his wife, Lisa. They have been married for almost 30 years, and have four children. Show Notes: Vineyard USA suggested reading for September Alpha Booklet “Why Jesus” by Nicky Gumbel https://bit.ly/3MlFmHD Alpha https://alphausa.org Socials: @vineyardusa Vineyardusa.org
Susie Kumah joined the show to share all that God has been doing to grow the network of Alpha churches in the DMV.Susie Kumah is the Network Director of Alpha in the DMV (Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia), who was born to Ghanaian parents, raised in London, and currently resides in Northern Virginia. Prior to joining Alpha USA, Susie worked as a worship leader at a Holy Trinity Church in McLean, VA. In addition, she managed both the outreach ministry and the Alpha course.Susie longs to see heartfelt praise and worship of God across the DMV. She hopes that everyone regardless of race, gender, age, class and more would experience the true love of God that would allow them to know Him abundantly…. As the Apostle Paul says in Ephesians 1:17, “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.
This week, Julia & Eric sit down with John Wentz, Executive Director of Alpha USA. Since joining the Alpha USA team in 2015, John has led the expansion of regional networks, has invested in the growth of context ministries (youth, prisons, Catholic), and has improved training nationally and internationally. John developed the hub church strategy and designed the core of Alpha USA's church engagement framework, both of which are now being implemented globally. Hear more of John's story which has helped him impact many churches, ministry leaders, and college students across the world.For more information on Alpha USA, visit: AlphaUSA.orgFor more information on Alpha at Vineyard Columbus, visit: AskAtAlpha.com
Adrienne and Eric interview Jess Gatton, Vice President of Ministry for ALPHA USA. ALPHA walks with churches in rediscovering the way of Jesus through intentional hospitality, listening, and dependence on the Holy Spirit. Jess loves getting to journey with Christian leaders – helping them remember and connect to why they got so caught up with Jesus in the first place. Jess and her husband Chris live in Columbus, OH with their two daughters.AlphaUSA.orgAsAtAlpha.com
Special Guest Todd Proctor from Alpha USA teaches from Luke 7 and shares a vision for life with Jesus that is lived around the table.
The idea of “evangelism” can be scary to both believers and non-believers. Understanding how non-believers feel about spiritual conversations helps us share the Good News in ways that will draw others in, rather than scare them away. Kelli Jordan and Melodi Leih talk through some trends in today's culture impacting how people feel about “evangelism.” If we can understand some of the trends, we can face them with truth. Scripture references: Matthew 28:19-20; Romans 10:14; Romans 2:3-4Resources: If you are a MOPS leader, learn more in our Evangelism Perspective course at training.mops.org. MOPS International's YouVersion study on Acts 17: Here and Now. Sources: "Reviving Evangelism: Current Realities That Demand a New Vision for Sharing Faith"; A Barna Report produced in partnership with Alpha USA, 2019IF:Lead Conference, "Deconstruction" with John Mark Comer, Joshua Ryan Butler and Jennie Allen, 2021.
Brittany is a Senior Area Director with Alpha USA--a non-profit dedicated to facilitating honest conversations about life, faith, and meaning AND she's part of the BecomeNew community. She's a rockin' mama of two and married to John's behind-the-scenes buddy: Tim. Let's take a deep breathe and learn about good-enough faith... CONNECT WITH US AT:
Join Cory and Josh as they interview Jordan Biere - National Director Alpha Youth at Alpha USA. On this episode we discuss concepts of unity, working in collaboration, and growing in authentic relationships within youth ministry and beyond. https://alphausa.org/youth/ We would love to connect with you! Please email us: cory@zerohourministries.org Instagram: @zerohourministriespodcast For more info: www.zerohourministries.org TikTok: @zerohourministries Facebook: @zerohourministries
In this long-form conversation Kevin Palau, president and CEO of the Luis Palau Association, reflects on the historic ministry of his Argentinian-born father, who trained and participated in Billy Graham crusades, and led similar crusades throughout Latin America. He talks about new ways of telling the story of Jesus in a modern society, and how today that mission is just as much about transforming the individual as it is about “the desire for social justice and to see institutions and structures transformed.” Kevin also tells the origin story of TogetherPDX, a collaboration of churches he founded 15 years ago to meet the needs of the citizens of Portland, Oregon, where the Luis Palau Association is based. He discusses how that has been a catalyst for City Gospel Movements across the U.S., which helps churches in the same city join together to be an essential part of making a difference in things like public education, foster care, refugee communities, and people living with homelessness. Kevin Palau is President and CEO of the Luis Palau Association, which unites tens of thousands of churches in hundreds of cities to love and serve their communities and clearly share the Good News of Jesus. His book, Unlikely: Setting Aside Our Differences to Live Out the Gospel describes the ongoing impact of the movement. He enjoys serving on the boards of Alpha USA, Christians Against Poverty, and Transforming the Bay with Christ.
(Just kidding. We thought our guest list this week sounded a bit like the start of a joke... but it was pretty awesome.) Julia & Eric interview Bishop Todd Hunter - former President of Alpha USA, former National Director of Vineyard USA, and current Bishop in the Anglican Church. The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others, founder of The Telos Collective, and founder of the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. He is also the author of lots of books, his most recent being and Deep Peace... which is available at the Vineyard Columbus bookstore at bookstore.vineyardcolumbus.org. Learn more about Bishop Todd Hunter: toddhunter.orgFollow Bishop Todd on social media: Facebook & Instagram: bishoptoddhunterTwitter: bptoddhunter
Many Christian organizations are working to build their workplace culture to keep our best talent from leaving. Part of the challenge has to do with employees working remotely. In today's episode, we focus on how Alpha USA has built a flourishing workplace culture while having a one hundred percent remote staff. Listen in! As a leader, you need to recruit and retain a high-quality team to help your organization achieve its mission. Having the right people on your team is always important to a thriving organization. But now there are some trends that make recruiting and retaining employees even more challenging. We will address these issues today in our conversation. I'm delighted to welcome Craig Springer. He is the Executive Director of Alpha USA. Find full show notes here: https://bit.ly/craigspringerbesttalent Share the love. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate it on Apple Podcasts and write a brief review. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-flourishing-culture-podcast/id1060724960?mt=2 By doing so, you will help spread our podcast to more listeners, and thereby help more Christian workplaces learn to build flourishing cultures. Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on Twitter https://twitter.com/allopus Follow our Host, Al Lopus, on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/allopus/ Email our host at info@bcwinstitute.org
I am privileged to be joined by the inspirational author Gerard Long on the podcast this week. Gerard Long is an author and pastor, who had a 30-year-year career in banking, was the National Director of Alpha USA for seven years and is the Founder and President of a non-profit corporation, Awakening to God Ministries. In the first week of its release, his book Living Hope was Amazon's #1 New Release and #1 Bestseller. Gerard has an exciting story to share with us. In 2019, Gerard died from a cardiac arrest. He was pronounced dead not once but twice in 30 minutes. Asking the question, “Why am I still here” he sensed a divine calling to write his latest book, Living Hope, to share three epiphanies that helped him journey through a season of catastrophic suffering. In this episode, we will tackle topics like how to journey through suffering, how to find God's plan/purpose for your life, how to triumph in the fight of faith, and how to succeed in your marriage when all seems lost.Enjoy the episode, and a special thank you to my listeners for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned and keep listening. Should you wish to connect with Gerard, you can check out his social pages and website. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awakeningtogod/Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/awakeningtogod/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerard-long-93900633/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AwakeningtoGodTwitter: https://twitter.com/atg_ministriesWould you please support the pre-sale campaign for my upcoming book, Trauma Propels: Turning Obstacles Into Opportunities? Expected publication May 2022.Pre-sale Book Campaign: https://igg.me/at/onsLf-FkSLY/x/28095485#/Connect with me by checking out mycenteredlife for daily inspiration, and leave me a comment to let me know what you think of the episode.Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/mycenteredlifeInstagram: http://www.instagram.com/mycenteredlifeWould you please support the show at www.patreon.com/survivingtraumastoriesofhopeSupport the show (https://www.patreon.com/survivingtraumastoriesofhope)
Bishop Hunter has expressed his kingdom-Spirit-formation-church-culture focus in various settings. He the founding bishop of http://www.c4so.org/ (The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others), a diocese of the Anglican Church in North America. Bishop Hunter is past President of Alpha USA, former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of http://myholytrinitychurch.com/ (Holy Trinity Anglican Church) in Costa Mesa, California. He is the author of https://www.amazon.com/Christianity-Beyond-Belief-Following-Others/dp/0830832564 (Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others), https://www.amazon.com/Giving-Church-Another-Chance-Spiritual/dp/0830837485/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Giving+Church+Another+Chance&qid=1568493687&s=gateway&sr=8-1 (Giving Church Another Chance), https://www.amazon.com/Outsider-Interviews-Generation-Speaks-Christianity/dp/0801013453/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1481664414&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Outsider+Interviews (The Outsider Interviews), https://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Anglican-Surprising-Appeal-Liturgical/dp/0830838392/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1481664446&sr=1-1&keywords=The+Accidental+Anglican (The Accidental Anglican,) https://www.amazon.com/Our-Favorite-Sins-Commit-Quit-ebook/dp/B005ENBCAK/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Our+Favorite+Sins+by+Todd+HUnter&qid=1568493724&s=gateway&sr=8-1 (Our Favorite Sins) andhttps://www.amazon.com/Our-Character-Work-Success-Leadership/dp/1627872914/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1481664510&sr=1-1&keywords=Our+Character+at+Work ( Our Character at Work). Bishop Hunter is also the founder of the https://centerfjp.org/ (Center for Formation, Justice and Peace). The Center's interdenominational community seeks to develop the Christlike character necessary to activate justice, leading to a life of deep peace for all people. In addition, Bishop Todd serves as founder and president of http://www.teloscollective.com/ (The Telos Collective,) an organization dedicated to forming leaders at the intersection of gospel and culture.
We sat down for an incredible conversation with Bishop Dr.. Todd Hunter at New Room Conference 2021. Dr. Hunter is the founding bishop of The Anglican Diocese, Churches for the Sake of Others. He is a past president of Alpha USA and former national director for the Association of Vineyard Churches. An adjunct professor at several seminaries, he is author of Christianity Beyond Belief, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, and Our Character at Work.
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others, founder of The Telos Collective, and founder of the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. He is past president of Alpha USA, former national director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is the author of Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, Our Character at Work and Deep Peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others, founder of The Telos Collective, and founder of the Center for Formation, Justice and Peace. He is past president of Alpha USA, former national director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, and retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is the author of Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, Our Character at Work and Deep Peace.
Daily Wire's Ben Johnson looks at California legislation that will pay for children who seek sex-reassignment drugs and procedures and hide that information from parents. Alpha USA's Jordan Biere comments on research that finds Generation Z believes setting examples by actions is key to sharing faith.
Daily Wire's Ben Johnson looks at California legislation that will pay for children who seek sex-reassignment drugs and procedures and hide that information from parents. Alpha USA's Jordan Biere comments on research that finds Generation Z believes setting examples by actions is key to sharing faith.
Living Hope – Gerard Long pt 1Life is full of unexpected things. Some good. Many bad. But through it all – God is still God! Amen! Sometimes we, as humans, have a hard time remembering that. It seems like we want to take responsibility in some things and leave God out of the equation. It seems we know what is best for our life, family and business or ministry – and we TELL God what it is that needs to happen. What happens though, when the bottom falls out. Not just in business, but in life. When such tragedy happens that it makes you reexamine your Faith walk. It is often in times like this, when you are not just at the “bottom of the barrel” but “under the barrel looking up.” It is at times like that, when God can finally get it through our head and down into our heart, that HE IS STILL GOD. My guest today has had numerous events in his life that has shaped his life, business and ministry. He has written a short book that explains the “seasons of life” that he has experienced. Gerard Long calls himself a “professor of life and death.” He is an author, a business leader, pastor, founder of “Awakening to God Ministries” and the former director of Alpha USA. He is now experiencing a blessed life, but it hasn't always been that way. The darkest valley of suffering he experienced happened all in a period of eight years. His youngest son committed suicide; this almost caused the break-up of his marriage; then the unbelievable death of his beautiful daughter. As if this wasn't enough pain, in the same eight-year period, his sister and brother also died, as did a nephew! As he was trying to rise from the ashes of those horrible things, he faced financial ruin at the hand of a “friend.” Then, he suffered a heart attack and was dead for almost 30 minutes! By a miraculous move of God, he was brought back to life and then faced an exorbitant amount of medical bills, only to face additional bills when his wife was diagnosed with bladder cancer! Gerard has documented much of his journey from this deep despair to triumph in Christ, in his book, titled, https://amzn.to/3z6FoL8 (“Living Hope: Awakening to Faith, Peace and Purpose in Tough Times.”) The first question I always ask is this… Other than that brief information I just shared, can you tell us in your own words, “Who is Gerard Long?” Gerard, I want our audience to get an understanding of the kind of pressure you were under. Prior to your heart attack, the pressures of losing both, your son and you daughter, to me that seems almost unbearable. Can you talk a little bit about this time in your life, as I believe, from what I've read, this was the mounting pressure that may have triggered your cardiac arrest. Can you go over that time for us, briefly? In your book, you describe the night your wife experienced the presence of the Lord. I can relate to that 100%. I had made the decision to take my life and the Lord's presence just absolutely enveloped me in the room I was in. I was there, singing, laughing and all of that. What she described as the sparkling, etc. – yeah…when I read that, I was like “AMEN!” CONTACT INFORMATIONhttps://amzn.to/3z6FoL8 () Email: long@awakeningtogod.org Website: http://www.livinghopebook.com/ (http://www.livinghopebook.com/) Book: https://amzn.to/3z6FoL8 (“Living Hope: Awakening to Faith, Peace, and Purpose in Tough Times”) – on Amazon Support this podcast
How can we use our new COVID ministry landscape as leverage to reach and invest in the next generation? Jordan Biere from Alpha USA joins Jeff for the first episode of Season 2 to talk about some studies, some things to be aware of, and why we should be excited about Gen Z. Click here to access Alpha USA's website. Click here to access Alpha USA's Instagram. Click here to access Jordan's Instagram. Click here to watch this episode on YouTube.
It is a great blessing to share today's episode with Gerard Long. It is a story of great suffering and simultaneously a story of great grace and faith. Gerard Long is an author and, pastor, who had a 30-year-year career in banking, was the National Director of Alpha USA for seven years, and is the Founder and President of a non-profit corporation, Awakening to God Ministries. In 2019, Gerard experienced a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead twice in the span of 30 minutes. After coming back to life and recognizing the miracle He'd received, Gerard asked the question, “Why am I still here?” He sensed a divine calling to write his latest book, Living Hope, to share the treasures he discovered during a time of catastrophic suffering, including the suicide of his beloved son and, eight years later, the tragic death of his beautiful daughter. Gerard and his wife Jeannie recently moved from Malibu, California to Chichester, UK to care for Jeannie's 90 year-old-mum. I pray the Lord ministers to you and strengthens your faith through this powerful testimony of God's grace. Check out Uplifting Faith with Gerard Long… From the Show Living Hope by Gerard Long Alpha USA Scripture References Romans 11:36 2 Corinthians 6:10 Philippians 3:10 John 16:14 Romans 5:5 Hebrews 5:7-10 Hebrews 13:20-21 Hebrews 4:16 Ecclesiastes 3:11 James 4:14 Matthew 6:20 Mark 12:30-31 Matthew 28:18-20 Ephesians 2:10 John 17:4 Philippians 1:29 James 1:2-4 Matthew 9:36 2 Peter 3:9 Romans 8:17 John 16:33 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 Isaiah 61:1-4 John 4:34 2 Corinthians 12:9 Genesis 50:20 2 Corinthians 2:14 1 John 5:4 Connect with Gerard + Awakening to God Ministries! Website: www.awakeningtogod.org Instagram: @awakeningtogod Facebook: Awakening to God YouTube: Awakening to God Pinterest: ATG Ministries Twitter: @atg_ministries Let's Connect Facebook: Mission: Uplift Instagram: @missionuplift Website: www.missionuplift.co Patreon: Mission: Uplift Email: missionuplift@gmail.com Subscribe: Apple | Google | Spotify --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/missionuplift/message
Adam Ward welcomes back the Alpha USA Sr Director Eastern Time Zone Jessica Gatton to talk about the model behind the crazy successful “listen evangelism” model they run (2020 had 35% growth). Contact jessicagatton@alphausa.org for more info. Jess will be hosting a local training with national speakers on August 21, 2021. Click here for more info: https://ohio.cmail19.com/t/i-l-clytde-jylltkdrii-j/
Craig Springer, Executive Director of Alpha USA, joins Carey and David to talk about the current state of evangelism in a world deeply impacted by the pandemic and what evangelism trends we're already noticing in the next generation. -- Find Craig's latest book, How to Revive Evangelism: 7 Vital Shifts in How We Share Our Faith, on Amazon and other sellers. Go to medishare.com/churchpulse to learn how to start saving hundreds of dollars per month on health insurance. Go to replicatecollective.com to sign up for the Collective today (spots are limited). Check out Barna's Next Gen Evangelism report at Barna.com/NextGenEvangelism today!
In this episode Bo and Dave are joined by Jordan Bierre who is the National Youth Director for Alpha. He shares powerful insights on 4 Core Principles of Thriving Youth Ministries from around the country. He gives practical insights from these 4 principles that we can apply in our ministries to reach Gen Z. Jordan Biere: Jordan was a local youth pastor for 10 years before joining Alpha USA in 2019 as the National Youth Director. Alpha runs in more than 6,000 churches across every major denomination and in over 3,000 youth ministries throughout the country. Jordan is passionate about seeing Gen Z walk in the fullness of life and to see youth leverage their unique gifts as a generation to bring about a beautiful expression of heaven on earth. Jordan and his wife Amy have 4 kids and are currently living in Holland, Michigan. Insta: @jordanbiere Jordan's Email: jordanbiere@alphausa.org Resources: Solarium Story Cards https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/share-the-gospel/outreach-strategies/soularium.html Book references "Jesus is the Question” Martin B Copenhaver “I once was lost” Don Everts and Doug Schaupp Additional Questions to Thresholds for us to think about as youth ministries… TRUST - HOW ARE YOU CREATING SPACE FOR NEW RELATIONSHIPS? CURIOUS - HOW ARE YOU PROVOKING CURIOSITY AROUND THE PERSON OF JESUS? CHANGE - WHAT OUTLETS DO YOU HAVE FOR STUDENTS TO DISCUSS THEIR DEEP QUESTIONS AND DOUBT ON FAITH AND LIFE? SEEKING - HOW ARE YOU RESOURCING THE STUDENTS ON THEIR SELF-DISCOVERY JOURNEY IN THEIR PURSUIT OF GOD? (individual and group) ENTER - WHERE ARE YOU EXTENDING THE INVITATION TO TRULY FOLLOW JESUS? Landing Page https://alphausa.org/alpha-youth-series Stories https://vimeo.com/showcase/6310886 (grab whatever ones you think make sense) Pincher Creek Video: https://vimeo.com/showcase/6310886 FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: @Lead.222 ------- Did this conversation resonate with you? We want to hear from you! Write us at dave@lead222.com Help us grow the community! Subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more information about Lead222 or find a community of leaders in your area: www.lead222.com Lead222 Youth Ministry Staffing www.lead222ymstaffing.com Contact Dave at Dave@lead222.com
How do we share our faith with each other without destroying our relationships? Craig Springer, Executive Director of Alpha USA and author of “How to Revive Evangelism” rejoins us this episode to discuss the reputation of Christianity and how it can initially scare us from becoming strong believers in Jesus. Dr. Spencer and Springer look at the different ways to encourage others to explore their faith while debunking the old, divisive rhetoric that supports ideas like white supremacy. Listen as they talk about how different generations approach evangelism, and how everyone can contribute to reviving it. Want to learn how you can be a part of Alpha Memphis? Sign up at alphausa.org Join us next week as we talk with Dr. Alexis Gwen-Miller, Director of Alpha NDCC, as she explains the importance of asking questions in order to share our experiences and grow our faith. Follow Dr. Stacy L. Spencer on Social Media: Facebook: Stacy L. Spencer Twitter: Twitter.com/stacy_spencer Instagram: @drstacylspencer StacySpencer.org
Most Christians in the Bible belt are prepared to answer the question, “what must I do to be saved?” The problem is, no one is really asking that question anymore. John Wentz, ministry director for Alpha USA, joins Jonathan for a conversation about sharing the truth our culture really needs and standing together in unity for the sake of the gospel. Alpha creates a space for conversations among friends about faith, life and God.
Most Christians in the Bible belt are prepared to answer the question, “what must I do to be saved?” The problem is, no one is really asking that question anymore. John Wentz, ministry director for Alpha USA, joins Jonathan for a conversation about sharing the truth our culture really needs and standing together in unity for the sake of the gospel. Alpha creates a space for conversations among friends about faith, life and God.
A 2019 survey by Barna Group reported the startling statistic that 47% of Millennial Christians think evangelizing others is wrong. Craig Springer cites this statistic in the introduction to his new book, How to Revive Evangelism, and writes, “In the US especially, the instinct to evangelize is eroding.” The obvious questions church leaders need to ask are why is this happening and what can we do about it? Those are the questions I’m discussing with Springer in Episode 247 of the Influence Podcast. I’m George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Craig Springer is executive director of Alpha USA, a program that runs in over 6,500 churches across every major denomination and 500 prisons throughout the country. Most recently, he is author of How to Revive Evangelism: 7 Vital Shifts in How We Share Our Faith, published by Zondervan. ----- This episode of the Influence Podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of Bible Engagement Project. Most people have access to the Bible, but few regularly engage with it. Bible Engagement Project equips churches with digital Bible study resources to help people of all ages read and understand Scripture so they can become more like Jesus and live radically changed lives. Bible Engagement Project is available in both English and Spanish. Visit BibleEngagementProject.com to learn more.
Faith Revisited welcomes a very special guest, Craig Springer. Craig is the Executive Director of Alpha USA and the author of numerous books including the recently released "How To Revive Evangelism." He walks us through some of the main themes in the book, the work that Alpha is doing and how evangelism is evolving and adapting throughout the pandemic. It's an enlightening and rich conversation, we hope you enjoy! Show notes can be found here.
As Christians, we're called to share the good news of Jesus' salvation. But in the post-Christian, post-modern world we're living in, many believers aren't well regarded and evangelizing is getting more difficult than ever. Ed Stetzer talks with Alpha USA's Craig Springer about how we can shift our approach to become more effective in reaching the culture with the good news.
Craig Springer, Executive Director of Alpha USA, talks with Wayne Shepherd about Alpha's mission of introducing people to the basics of the Gospel and to who Jesus Christ is.
This week we are joined by Jack Cowley, National Director, Prisons and Re-Entry at Alpha USA. Jack shares with us his 30+ years of insights beginning as a probation officer before eventually ascending to the position of warden...and so much more! Links below as to content discussed in this episode! Alpha USA: https://alphausa.org/prisons-about National Institute of Corrections: https://nicic.gov/ The Paragon Group LLC: https://theparagongroupllc.com/ The Criminologist Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw1d_twLd7CdnDgS7amNpuQ?view_as=subscriber
Craig Springer, executive director of Alpha USA, joins Rob to talk about sharing truth + hope in a post-Christian urban landscape.For more information + ministry resources, visit denverunited.com/update. We hope you've been blessed + encouraged today.For more information or to submit a prayer request, head to www.denverunited.com, download our app, or email us at info@denverunited.com.
Danielle and Fr. Steve sit down with Sarah Kaczmarek and talk about her experience as a youth minister, how a powerful mission trip changed her life and how God is using her now, with Alpha USA. Rapid Fire Questions and Discussion - 0:53 Testimony - 12:48 Discussion of the Unleash the Gospel Letter - 22:00 Reflection - 43:43 Episode Summary - 45:15
Danielle and Fr. Steve sit down with Sarah Kaczmarek and talk about her experience as a youth minister, how a powerful mission trip changed her life and how God is using her now, with Alpha USA. Rapid Fire Questions and Discussion - 0:53 Testimony - 12:48 Discussion of the Unleash the Gospel Letter - 22:00 Reflection - 43:43 Episode Summary - 45:15
The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others and founder and leader of The Telos Collective. He is past President of Alpha USA, former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches, retired founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. Todd has written a number of books including The Accidental Anglican, Our Favorite Sins, and Our Character at Work. Todd holds a Doctor of Ministry degree and serves as an adjunct professor of evangelism, leadership in contemporary culture and spiritual formation at George Fox University, Fuller Seminary, Western Seminary, Vanguard University, Azusa Pacific University and Wheaton College. Todd and his wife, Debbie, have two adult children and live in Franklin, Tennessee.
Questions are powerful. The way we ask questions and the way we answer questions can have a major impact on those around us especially when it comes to questions surrounding our faith. On today's episode, we have a great conversation with Craig Springer, executive director of Alpha USA, about questions that move people. His book How To Follow Jesus. How Alpha's approach to evangelism and discipleship is spreading like wildfire, and how the church can be more effective at building relationships with those that don't know Jesus. Craig has a strong personal history with Alpha from his time at non-denominational megachurches and most recently, Cherry Hills Community Church where he was an Executive and Teaching Pastor. He and his wife Sarah, were also church planters in Prague, Czech Republic. Craig has a deep passion for the local church and a broad personal church background including Vineyard churches, evangelical Presbyterian churches, and international church planting. As a result, he views Alpha as a vital tool for all churches. He is a husband to Sarah and father to two children, Isaiah and Isabelle. They enjoy spending time as a family hiking and skiing in the mountains of Colorado (and let’s be honest; plenty of grocery shopping and suburb hopping too). They love to party, play and dig into the everyday challenges of life together. Connect with Craig Alpha How To Follow Jesus
Craig Springer is the Executive Director of Alpha USA, a program that runs in over 6,500 churches across every major denomination and 500 prisons throughout the country. Alpha mobilizes over 50,000 volunteers and 360,000 participants annually in the US and over 1.3 million globally. Alpha is a simple idea of a great meal, a short talk and a meaningful discussion about life and faith over ten weeks. Craig has been a leader and pastor in influential churches in Chicago and Denver, one of which was named Outreach Magazine's 2014 Fastest Growing Church in America. Craig and his wife, Sarah, also spent a number of years church planting in Prague, Czech Republic. Craig lives in the Denver area and is a passionate hack at every mountain sport you can name. He and Sarah have been married for 19 years, have two, full-hearted children and one very spoiled beagle. He recently published How to Follow Jesus: A practical guide for growing your faith.
Marc sits down with Scott Bagshaw from Alpha USA to discuss what does it look like for us to encounter the Holy Spirit and walk with Him throughout our days. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Evangelizing millennials and Gen Z. Impossible? No! It’s what Jessica Gatton teaches every day. As the Ohio Director for Alpha USA, it’s Jess’ job to start Alpha groups, teaching churches and ministries how to share the gospel and their faith with the unsaved. https://alphausa.org/
Taking early retirement as SVP with banking giant HSBC Plc, Gerard Long lead non-profit Alpha USA as CEO from 2008-2014, to introduce people to Jesus Christ. Gerard has experienced life at its best but also its worst. In 2005 his beloved youngest son, Alex (17), committed suicide and his marriage came within a tread of failing. Eight years later, Gerard and Jeannie were hit again when their beautiful daughter, Rebecca (32), drowned in a tragic accident. After God spoke to Jeannie in a divine encounter, Gerard resigned from Alpha and they started Awakening to God Ministries, to bring comfort and hope to the suffering in the US and around the world.Hear more inspirational stories like Gerard's on the Pray app: https://link.pray.com/hOzg1zP3i0
Taking early retirement as SVP with banking giant HSBC Plc, Gerard Long lead non-profit Alpha USA as CEO from 2008-2014, to introduce people to Jesus Christ. Gerard has experienced life at its best but also its worst. In 2005 his beloved youngest son, Alex (17), committed suicide and his marriage came within a tread of failing. Eight years later, Gerard and Jeannie were hit again when their beautiful daughter, Rebecca (32), drowned in a tragic accident. After God spoke to Jeannie in a divine encounter, Gerard resigned from Alpha and they started Awakening to God Ministries, to bring comfort and hope to the suffering in the US and around the world.Hear more inspirational stories like Gerard's on the Pray app: https://link.pray.com/hOzg1zP3i0“One of the things we greatly need today, in a world where there is so much suffering and so much pain, is we need people to come alongside others, to put our arm around them, and to say I understand.”
Taking early retirement as SVP with banking giant HSBC Plc, Gerard Long lead non-profit Alpha USA as CEO from 2008-2014, to introduce people to Jesus Christ. Gerard has experienced life at its best but also its worst. In 2005 his beloved youngest son, Alex (17), committed suicide and his marriage came within a tread of failing. Eight years later, Gerard and Jeannie were hit again when their beautiful daughter, Rebecca (32), drowned in a tragic accident. After God spoke to Jeannie in a divine encounter, Gerard resigned from Alpha and they started Awakening to God Ministries, to bring comfort and hope to the suffering in the US and around the world.Hear more inspirational stories like Gerard's on the Pray app: https://link.pray.com/hOzg1zP3i0“As a leader, we need to know how to strengthen ourself in God. And that means we’ll be people of great people of prayer.”
Taking early retirement as SVP with banking giant HSBC Plc, Gerard Long lead non-profit Alpha USA as CEO from 2008-2014, to introduce people to Jesus Christ. Gerard has experienced life at its best but also its worst. In 2005 his beloved youngest son, Alex (17), committed suicide and his marriage came within a tread of failing. Eight years later, Gerard and Jeannie were hit again when their beautiful daughter, Rebecca (32), drowned in a tragic accident. After God spoke to Jeannie in a divine encounter, Gerard resigned from Alpha and they started Awakening to God Ministries, to bring comfort and hope to the suffering in the US and around the world.Hear more inspirational stories like Gerard's on the Pray app: https://link.pray.com/hOzg1zP3i0“We don’t like this cup. It’s a very bitter cup. But by your grace, and only by your grace; if you want us to walk this walk, we pray that you’d now use us for your glory.”
Taking early retirement as SVP with banking giant HSBC Plc, Gerard Long lead non-profit Alpha USA as CEO from 2008-2014, to introduce people to Jesus Christ. Gerard has experienced life at its best but also its worst. In 2005 his beloved youngest son, Alex (17), committed suicide and his marriage came within a tread of failing. Eight years later, Gerard and Jeannie were hit again when their beautiful daughter, Rebecca (32), drowned in a tragic accident. After God spoke to Jeannie in a divine encounter, Gerard resigned from Alpha and they started Awakening to God Ministries, to bring comfort and hope to the suffering in the US and around the world.Hear more inspirational stories like Gerard's on the Pray app: https://link.pray.com/hOzg1zP3i0
Meet the well-known ministry organization whose flourishing staff culture helped attract 366,000 participants in 6,500 churches last year alone. The amazing story, next. Today, we're going to look at Inspirational Leadership, which is the sixth of the eight drivers that can take the health of your workplace culture to the next level. My guest, today, knows a lot about Inspirational Leadership. His character, leadership, and convictions are going to give you some fresh, new insights for how to improve and strengthen your own workplace culture. With that, I want to welcome in one of the most popular guests on the podcast, Craig Springer, Executive Director of Alpha USA. Find full show notes here https://www.bcwinstitute.org/s4e26-craig-springer/
The Apostle James wrote, "Everyone should be quick to listen." As Christians seek engage the world and share the good news Jesus has to offer, this has never been more applicable.In this episode, Josh and Laurie interview the Director of Alpha USA in Chicagoland, Gabriel Lerma. Gabriel discusses his experiences with Alpha Groups (outreach small groups designed to help people wrestle with faith) and the importance of belonging, connection, love, trust and listening as people seek to understand God and come to faith.
Most people know that we have invested heavily in Alpha at Divine Renovation. We do so because we have found it to be the most effective tool for evangelization. This week we call on our conversation with the National Director for Catholic Context at Alpha USA, Josh Danis. Josh shares his insights on the state of the church in the United States. We ask some very tough questions about the challenges that the Church is facing, in the US and beyond, and Josh does an incredible job of inspiring hope in us for our future. This is a powerful and poignant conversation.
What can you do more of to really bless your spouse? What can you do to really know your spouse? On Sunday, August 11, 2019, guest speaker Gerard Long continues the sermon series, “Wisdom in Bite-Size Pieces” with a sermon on “Wisdom in marriage.” The worship service kicks off with a reading of Psalm 117 by Janet Griffin, followed by worship through song led by Daneen Wilburn. Daneen leads with songs, “Lord I Need You” and “Amazing Grace.” After a two-song worship set, the congregation greets those around them, and we have morning announcements via video by Ryana Contreras. Following the announcements, Janet Griffin gives the Prayers of the People. Then Steve Murray gives an introduction to the guest speaker, Gerard Long (refer to Gerard's bio below). Gerard Long gives the message of the morning. Following the message Steve Murray prays for the Offering and the band leads us back into worship through song with "Ever Be" and "Revelation Song." Steve Murray invites Ryana Contreras up to the stage to pray over her as she embarks on a new journey to serve the Lord at a new position in Point Loma. Following the prayer Steve Murray gives the Benediction and the musicians in the band play a reprise of Revelation Song. Daneen on lead vocals is joined by Craig Stephenson on electric guitar, Scott Davenport on bass, and Bob Sale on drums. Gerard and his wife Jeannie are the founders of Awakening to God Ministries (ATG) that was birthed in 2015 out of the deepest suffering. After many years on the ‘mountain top,’ their hearts were shattered after the suicide of their precious son Alex (17) in 2005. Darkness engulfed Jeannie’s broken mother heart, her love for Gerard turned to hatred, and she lost her faith for a season. She was rescued and restored but then, unbelievably, their beautiful daughter Rebecca (32) drowned in a tragic accident. Knowing she couldn’t continue, Jeannie decided to take her own life, only to be rescued and transformed by a divine encounter! Gerard and Jeannie are now sharing God’s love, faith and hope to bring good news to the poor, comfort to the brokenhearted, freedom to the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. They have written several books and produced the Triumph of Marriage course. Gerard has experience as a 30-year Int’l Banker, Pastor, Author and CEO of Alpha USA 2008-2014. They currently live in Malibu, CA. and their son Ben lives in London, UK.
What can you do more of to really bless your spouse? What can you do to really know your spouse? On Sunday, August 11, 2019, guest speaker Gerard Long continues the sermon series, “Wisdom in Bite-Size Pieces” with a sermon on “Wisdom in marriage.” The worship service kicks off with a reading of Psalm 117 by Janet Griffin, followed by worship through song led by Daneen Wilburn. Daneen leads with songs, “Lord I Need You” and “Amazing Grace.” After a two-song worship set, the congregation greets those around them, and we have morning announcements via video by Ryana Contreras. Following the announcements, Janet Griffin gives the Prayers of the People. Then Steve Murray gives an introduction to the guest speaker, Gerard Long (refer to Gerard's bio below). Gerard Long gives the message of the morning. Following the message Steve Murray prays for the Offering and the band leads us back into worship through song with "Ever Be" and "Revelation Song." Steve Murray invites Ryana Contreras up to the stage to pray over her as she embarks on a new journey to serve the Lord at a new position in Point Loma. Following the prayer Steve Murray gives the Benediction and the musicians in the band play a reprise of Revelation Song. Daneen on lead vocals is joined by Craig Stephenson on electric guitar, Scott Davenport on bass, and Bob Sale on drums. Gerard and his wife Jeannie are the founders of Awakening to God Ministries (ATG) that was birthed in 2015 out of the deepest suffering. After many years on the ‘mountain top,’ their hearts were shattered after the suicide of their precious son Alex (17) in 2005. Darkness engulfed Jeannie’s broken mother heart, her love for Gerard turned to hatred, and she lost her faith for a season. She was rescued and restored but then, unbelievably, their beautiful daughter Rebecca (32) drowned in a tragic accident. Knowing she couldn’t continue, Jeannie decided to take her own life, only to be rescued and transformed by a divine encounter! Gerard and Jeannie are now sharing God’s love, faith and hope to bring good news to the poor, comfort to the brokenhearted, freedom to the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. They have written several books and produced the Triumph of Marriage course. Gerard has experience as a 30-year Int’l Banker, Pastor, Author and CEO of Alpha USA 2008-2014. They currently live in Malibu, CA. and their son Ben lives in London, UK.
This week on the podcast, Dan O'Rourke, Rob McDowell, and Mike Tanner are joined by the National Director for Catholic Context at Alpha USA, Josh Danis, Josh joins us to discuss the ways Alpha is being used in the USA and beyond to bring people to Jesus Christ during times of strife and challenge. Josh shares stories of changed parishes and changed lives through the experience of Alpha, how churches are using Alpha effectively in their communities and the need to push forward with evangelization through a tool that is more common that different throughout Christian traditions.
Is it wrong to share your beliefs with someone of another faith in hopes that they will become a Christian? Craig Springer of Alpha USA reflects on recent survey findings that show almost half of millennials, more than any other generation, think evangelism is wrong. Why?
Is it wrong to share your beliefs with someone of another faith in hopes that they will become a Christian? Craig Springer of Alpha USA reflects on recent survey findings that show almost half of millennials, more than any other generation, think evangelism is wrong. Why?
Alpha is an international ministry that provides free resources for your parish to develop intentional opportunities to form the faith of your parishioners and invite new people into your community. In this episode, Chris and John speak with Sarah Kaczmarek from Alpha USA to discuss the role Alpha can play in our evangelization and discipleship efforts. To find out more about Alpha, visit www.alphausa.org.
Half of millennial Christians say it’s wrong to evangelize. This was the headline from CT’s report from new Barna Group research examining the perspectives of millennials, Gen-X, boomer, and elder practicing Christians on sharing their faith. (Note: Barna defines “practicing Christians” as churchgoers who consider religion an important part of their lives.) More than 90 percent of practicing Christians of all generations agreed somewhat or strongly that “part of my faith means being a witness about Jesus” and “the best thing that could ever happen to someone is for them to come to know Jesus.” Millennials were more likely than any other age group to say that they were gifted at sharing their faith with other people. In fact, 73 percent said they were compared to 56 percent of elders, who were the least secure about their ability. But controversially—at least to CT’s Twitter followers—47 percent of millennials said it was wrong to share one’s personal beliefs with someone of a different faith in hopes that they will one day share the same faith. What should we make of these numbers? Alpha USA executive director Craig Springer joined digital media producer Morgan Lee and editor in chief Mark Galli to discuss what these figures really mean, why the best way to do evangelism may just be asking questions, and why Christian unity is a good form of Christian witness.
With a new year, leaders around the globe have set new goals for themselves, their teams, organizations, or communities. Sometimes new goals require drastic changes. How do we leaders implement change without causing panic or confusion among our followers? We chatted with Craig Springer, executive director at Alpha USA, to discuss change management and how to provide effective leadership to help followers thrive in the midst of change. Craig shared with us on Leadercast Podcast his insights about how to thrive - and what to avoid! - during times of change.
Fr. Steve and Danielle sit down with Sarah Kaczmarek and talk about her experience as a youth minister, how a powerful mission trip changed her life and how God is using her in her current ministry with Alpha USA. Rapid Fire Questions - 0:53 Question Discussion - 6:53 Sarah's Testimony - 12:48 Discussion of the Unleash the Gospel Pastoral Letter - 22:00 Reflection and Prayer - 43:43 Episode Summary - 45:19
Fr. Steve and Danielle sit down with Sarah Kaczmarek and talk about her experience as a youth minister, how a powerful mission trip changed her life and how God is using her in her current ministry with Alpha USA. Rapid Fire Questions - 0:53 Question Discussion - 6:53 Sarah's Testimony - 12:48 Discussion of the Unleash the Gospel Pastoral Letter - 22:00 Reflection and Prayer - 43:43 Episode Summary - 45:19
Friends, the reality is that we need to search for a partner who will stand by our side through the storms of life. The first time Kait heard the story of today’s guests she was brought to complete tears. It moved Kait so deeply to see the vast amount of trauma this couple had been through but were able to triumphantly OVERCOME. Today Kait interviews the amazing Gerard and Jeannie Long. Gerard has an extensive banking career background that eventually led him to actually leaving this career to join Alpha USA. Today he is married to the lovely Jeannie and together they live in Malibu. The amazing couple also recently launched the TRIUMPH FOR MARRIAGE COURSE which is an e-learning course for strengthening couples. It’s AMAZING and powerful and we encourage you all to check it out! Gerard and Jeannie have an incredible story of devastation, heartbreak, grief and then restoration and HOPE and love. Today they share about their tragically beautiful story and how they conquered it together with ultimate LOVE and SACRIFICE and SURRENDER through overwhelming healing and STRENGTHENING from God. Friends, the reason why their message is so pivotal is that we believe this lie that relationships are about making us happy. We focus on how the other person can serve our needs and once it gets hard we often see that as a red flag and usually LEAVE for the next thing. The fact of the matter is AND what Jeannie and Gerard’s story shows us is that life is SO much more than just being happy. The storms will come, the unexpected will happen, and at the end of the day you might be left in shambles with your spouse. This is where we have to admit that having a partner to see you through life’s biggest hardship is SO PIVOTAL. Some themes of today’s episode: -Relationships are more about making us HOLY than they are about making us happy. -Character and a person of God is of much greater value than attraction. -There WILL be storms in life. How can we look for a partner to conquer the times of trauma and pain together? -How can we love another person through their seasons of brokenness and darkness? -The pivotal importance of SACRIFICIAL love in relationships. We hope you will listen to todays episode with an open heart. The reality is LIFE will probably get ugly, and painful and hard and sometimes tragic…. so who is it you want standing by your side when that happens? FRIENDS also, we are SO excited to announce the launch of our Dating COURSE: The Date Great Course. Just for Heart of Dating listeners you can be on our list to be the first to get access to this course! Just go to heartofdating.com/dategreat to reserve your spot!
Full 10:45 am service with Dominic Nuncio leading worship. Guest speaker Gerard Long gives a message on "Embrace Hope" to wrap up the "Embrace" series. Gerard and wife Jeannie are the founders of Awakening to God Ministries (ATG) that was birthed in 2015 out of the deepest suffering. After many years on the ‘mountain top,’ their hearts were shattered after the suicide of their precious son Alex (17) in 2005. Darkness engulfed Jeannie’s broken mother heart, her love for Gerard turned to hatred, and she lost her faith for a season. She was rescued and restored but then, unbelievably, their beautiful daughter Rebecca (32) drowned in a tragic accident. Knowing she couldn’t continue, Jeannie decided to take her own life, only to be rescued and transformed by a divine encounter! Gerard and Jeannie are now sharing God’s love, faith and hope to bring good news to the poor, comfort to the brokenhearted, freedom to the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. They have written several books and produced the Triumph of Marriage e-learning course. Gerard has experience as a 30 year Int’l Banker, Pastor, Author and CEO of Alpha USA 2008-2014. They currently live in Malibu, CA. and their son Ben lives in London, UK. Worship Songs: Whole Heart (Good Intentions) This Is Amazing Grace Living Hope Your Love Awakens Me
Full 10:45 am service with Dominic Nuncio leading worship. Guest speaker Gerard Long gives a message on "Embrace Hope" to wrap up the "Embrace" series. Gerard and wife Jeannie are the founders of Awakening to God Ministries (ATG) that was birthed in 2015 out of the deepest suffering. After many years on the ‘mountain top,’ their hearts were shattered after the suicide of their precious son Alex (17) in 2005. Darkness engulfed Jeannie’s broken mother heart, her love for Gerard turned to hatred, and she lost her faith for a season. She was rescued and restored but then, unbelievably, their beautiful daughter Rebecca (32) drowned in a tragic accident. Knowing she couldn’t continue, Jeannie decided to take her own life, only to be rescued and transformed by a divine encounter! Gerard and Jeannie are now sharing God’s love, faith and hope to bring good news to the poor, comfort to the brokenhearted, freedom to the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. They have written several books and produced the Triumph of Marriage e-learning course. Gerard has experience as a 30 year Int’l Banker, Pastor, Author and CEO of Alpha USA 2008-2014. They currently live in Malibu, CA. and their son Ben lives in London, UK. Worship Songs: Whole Heart (Good Intentions) This Is Amazing Grace Living Hope Your Love Awakens Me
The Guys Like Us is joined with Gerard Long who is an author, speaker, and executive director of Awakening to God Ministries. Gerard joins us today from California, although, his roots lie in England. Once a young talented track and field athlete to then becoming an HSBC executive in the finance and banking industry, Gerard excelled in his personal and professional life. He was leading Alpha USA and living the high life with his wife, Jeannie. However, things took a turn. He reveals the loss of his first son, and then years later, the loss of his daughter. “In these times, the presence of God was unbelievable.” Gerard found great hope in the midst of this immense suffering. We dig into Alpha, which is a series of interactive sessions that freely explores the basics of the Christian faith. Finally, we discuss Awakening to God Ministries and the work they are doing freeing the captives by bringing light in the darkness. The World Health Organization announced last year that the biggest global illness is depression and the biggest cause of death under 35 is suicide. The way forward is through the cross, the means is hope. Hear a bit more about Awakening to God’s various ministries by visiting www.awakeningtogod.org. Join Gerard and the team at an upcoming conference in the Midwest on October 20th !
Gerard Long is the former head of Alpha USA and now leads Awakening to God Ministries with his wife Jeannie. Gerard shares their personal story – one of tremendous loss, redemption, and hope. We trust you’ll be blessed and challenged on your journey.
Today Danielle sits down with Jad Levi of Alpha USA to continue their talk on surrendering and trusting in the Lord. How do we open up to Jesus Christ and allow Him to work in us? What difference does the Lord make in our daily lives? Hit the subscribe button, and be sure to tell your family and friends to do the same!
Today we're talking about the conversion and difference that the Lord makes in our daily lives. Danielle sits down with mentor, Jad Levi, of Alpha USA for a conversation about conversion, surrender, and allowing the Lord to work in your life. How can we turn to the Lord and allow Him to work in our lives? Hit the subscribe button, and be sure to tell your family and friends to do the same!
Bp. Todd Hunter 6 /11/2017 The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter is the founding bishop of The Diocese of Churches for the Sake of Others and founding pastor of Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Costa Mesa, CA. He is past President of Alpha USA, former National Director for the Association of Vineyard Churches and author of Christianity Beyond Belief: Following Jesus for the Sake of Others, Giving Church Another Chance, The Outsider Interviews, The Accidental Anglican and Our Favorite Sins.
John Wentz and Rebecca Dorn with Alpha USA joined Jim today to talk about how their program is equipping Believers to talk Truth with those around them. Their outfit sets up a series of session that explore the Faith so that we can have a deeper understanding of our Belief, and then spread this Truth … Continue reading Be an Alpha for Christ The post Be an Alpha for Christ appeared first on iWork4Him Podcast.
In this stunning true story of tragedy and Christian faith, listen as Gerard Long, known for his work with Alpha USA, talks about how his and his family's life was turned upside down not only once...but twice...and how faith in the Lord has such amazing power to conquer such amazing grief.
In this stunning true story of tragedy and Christian faith, listen as Gerard Long, known for his work with Alpha USA, talks about how his and his family's life was turned upside down not only once...but twice...and how faith in the Lord has such amazing power to conquer such amazing grief.
Gerard Long from Alpha USA talks about his book, Awakening to God. The post Awakening to God appeared first on iWork4Him Podcast.
The author of Awakening to God and Executive Director of Alpha USA, Gerard Long, talks with Wayne Shepherd about his family's grief at the loss of a son and daughter.
The author of Awakening to God and Executive Director of Alpha USA, Gerard Long, talks with Wayne Shepherd about his family's grief at the loss of a son and daughter.
The Director of Alpha USA, Gerard Long, talks to Wayne Shepherd about moving from senior business leadership to ministry as well as his family's grief over a son's suicide.
The Director of Alpha USA, Gerard Long, talks to Wayne Shepherd about moving from senior business leadership to ministry as well as his family's grief over a son's suicide.
**Today's host(s):** Scot Landry **Today's guest(s):** Pat Gohn and Rachel Balducci for Faith and Family magazine's "Mom's Day Away" and Tom Shields, Peter Carpentier, and Dick Kiernan from Alpha for Catholics * [Faith and Family Live](http://www.faithandfamilylive.com/) * [Faith and Family's Mom's Day Away](http://faithandfamily.eventbrite.com/) * [Rachel Balducci's blog, "Testosterhome"](http://www.testosterhome.net/) * [Rachel's book, "How Do You Tuck in a Superhero?"](http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/080073372X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=catholicnetrevie&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=080073372X) * [Pat Gohn's website](http://www.patgohn.com/) * [Pat Gohn's podcast "Amazing Women"](http://www.patgohn.com/patgohn/AmongWomenPodcast.com.html) * [Pat Gohn's podcast "Catholic GPS"](http://www.patgohn.com/patgohn/Catholic_GPS.html) * [Pat Gohn at CatholicMom.com](http://catholicmom.com/author/pgohn/) * [Pat Gohn at Patheos](http://www.patheos.com/About-Patheos/Pat-Gohn.html) * [Pat Gohn at Catholic Exchange](http://catholicexchange.com/tag/pat-gohn/) **Today's topics:** Mom's Day Away for Catholic moms, Catholic moms in new media, and Alpha for Catholics **A summary of today's show:** Pat Gohn and Rachel Balducci talk with Scot about Faith and Family's Mom's Day Away for Catholic moms coming up on April 2 as well as their personal projects including blogs, books, podcasts, and online columns. Then Scot welcomes Tom Shields, Peter Carpentier, and Rick Kiernan to discuss the Alpha for Catholics program in the Boston archdiocese. Finally, Scot and George Martell talk about George's photographs and the unique ways the Internet allows him to share them. **1st segment:** Scot read a statement from Jim Wright, president of The Station of the Cross, on Fr. John Corapi's administrative leave and then read a statement from Fr. Corapi from his website. The Station of the Cross has suspended ticket sales for the August 6 conference with Fr. Corapi pending consultation with advisors and resolution of the situation. * [Fr. John Corapi's statement on his website](http://www.fathercorapi.com/default.aspx) **2nd segment:** Scot welcomes Pat Gohn and Rachel Balducci of Faith and Family magazine. Pat said Faith and Family magazine and their website is a ministry of high quality for Catholic families and especially with Catholic moms in mind. Faith and Family Live is a great resource that brings together bloggers and has built a close-knit online community. Mom's Day Away is a day to bring the community of Faith and Family together. Rachel talked about the experience of meeting so many of the women who've been reading her blogs and book. It's an opportunity to give these Internet relationships a soul. There is a challenge to forming relationships online. It can be easy to forget there's a person on the other end of the computer. She was at the Catholic New Media Celebration in Boston last summer and had a great time meeting so many real life connections with people she'd already met online. You need the real-life connections to go along with the online interactions. One of the three keynotes is Jennifer Fulwiler. She grew up never believing in God, raised as an atheist. After getting married, she and her husband starting exploring the lack they felt in their lives. The Internet became a resource for her and through the Catholics she met online she discovered God and joined the Catholic Church. * [Jennifer Fulwiler's "Conversion Diary" blog](http://www.conversiondiary.com) Danielle Bean is the editor of Faith and Family magazine and one of the other speakers. Pat said it is her vision and leadership that has brought the magazine and website to where it is today. She's an author as well as wife and mother of 8. She brings a lot of exuberance and energy to everything she does including this day. * [Danielle Bean's books on Amazon.com](http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fie%3DUTF8%26redirect%3Dtrue%26ref_%3Dsr_tc_2_0%26keywords%3DDanielle%2520Bean%26field-contributor_id%3DB001KHVGS2%26qid%3D1300738838%26sr%3D1-2-ent%26rh%3Di%253Astripbooks%252Ck%253ADanielle%2520Bean&tag=catholicnetrevie&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=390957) * [Danielle Bean's blog](http://daniellebean.com/) Stoneham was chosen as the location for this first day because it was close to the publisher's home base in Connecticut and in a larger metropolitan area. Fr. Bill Schmidt of St. Patrick, Stoneham, generously offered the use of his very beautiful parish, which is conveniently located on a major roadways. They are keeping it small with just 200 tickets available. Rachel said although it's called Mom's Day Away, it's for all women. The three speakers all have big families and know what it takes to extricate themselves from the home. It's an opportunity to get together with other women, but also to get spiritual refreshment. It can be as intense or as laid back as they want it to be. She hopes women will go home refreshed and energized and able to be the best women they can be. Pat said her hope for the day is that there is a lot of laughter and time to talk over a great luncheon. There will be moments of prayer, adoration, silence, confession and the celebration of the Mass. They are joining together to build community between the women who come. There is a desire to celebrate the vocation of motherhood. Rachel said they're not forgetting about Lent with this celebration, but they're putting aside the sackcloth and ashes for just one day. Scot asked whether men should buy tickets for their wives to go? Pat said it would be a great Lenten service to the family if the husband could say to his wife that he will take over with the kids for a day so she can have this day away. Of course for moms with husbands who work on the weekends or are single moms, it would be great for others to step forward for them so they can get away. She also asked for prayers for the day. It will be 8am-5pm, April 2 at St. Patrick's Parish hall, Stoneham. Less than half of the available tickets are left. Tickets must be purchased online in advance, not at the door. * [Faith and Family Live's Mom's Day Away page](http://www.faithandfamilylive.com/blog/register_today_for_moms_day_away/) **3rd segment:** Rachel is the mother of 5 boys (and 1 baby girl) and she chronicles her experiences raising them on her blog. She started blogging 5 years ago when she had 4 boys under the age of 8. When the fourth boy became 3, life became overwhelming with a pack of boys roaming her home. Girls provide a tempering influence on their brothers. As a former newspaper reporter, writing is therapeutic for her and the blog helped her take a step back and look objectively at her life with her kids. Sharing funny stories helped her deal with the difficulties. Other moms write to her about how it helps them deal with raising boys. She has readers from all over the world. She recalls within the first couple of months getting a link from The National Review magazine's "The Corner" blog and she started to see readers from Australia and Europe and elsewhere. She felt good that her writing was reaching all over the world and encouraging the readers. One reader thanked her for reminding her to find the humor in her life's struggles and stresses. * [National Review's The Corner](http://www.nationalreview.com/corner) Her new book is "How Do You Tuck in a Superhero". Her aim is to help other moms become excited that God sent them boys too. Having boys helps her recognize that her job is to raise the boys to know, love, and serve Jesus, but boys are challenging because boys aren't particularly and innately religious. She wants to raise them to love Jesus and to be civilized human beings too. Scot asked whether Rachel always had a sense of humor or did she get it from raising boys. She said she comes from a very funny family that gave her a great sense of humor. **4th segment:** Pat agreed with Scot that Rachel has a great sense of humor and a great perspective. Scot said it's striking to him how close the pioneers in Catholic new media have become just through online relationships. Pat said using the Internet to make connections is part of the new evangelization. It's a new way of reaching out and touching the world in an evangelistic and missionary way. One of Pat's first new media initiatives was the Among Women podcast. Pat had already been writing online and as she got to know more and more writers, she found many of them starting podcasts. She explained what a podcast is: It is like a radio show that downloads to your computer and you can put it on your iPod or other digital media players to play anywhere. You can find them on individual websites or in iTunes. "Among Women" is a phrase from the Hail Mary and she chose it because when she's with other Christian women, she's happy to find community in Christ in the unique ways they relate. The podcast is part faith-sharing, part teaching, and part cup of coffee together. An episode could be about how to use the Bible as a devotional aid in prayer or recovery from abuse or women's issues. It looks at spiritual issues in women's lives and gives them expression. The first segment of each program is a profile of a saint or mystic and the second is a conversation with a woman sharing something from her own life. It could be an author or speaker or just a woman in the pew. It celebrates the faith and beauty and grace in a well-lived Catholic life. She's reached 100 episodes with her show. She and her husband Bob are very active at St. Michael's in Andover. They've been involved in faith-sharing groups, like Renew and Arise; prayer groups; Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; and music ministry. Their involvement evolved as their family has grown and evolved. St. Michael's is the largest parish in the Archdiocese and has a very long list of ministries and programs available. Pat has worked on the ministry team at the parish and saw how much work is involved. The downside of such a large parish could be the need to find a ministry to become involved with so one can feel a part of a very large community. That can happen in any parish. It's important to make familiar connections with that parish, to find opportunities for one-to-one sharing and relationships. * [St. Michael Parish, Andover](http://www.saint-michael.org/) **5th segment:** Scot welcomes Tom Shields, Peter Carpentier, and Dick Kiernan. Alpha for Catholics is a 10-week practical introduction to the Christian faith, primarily for non-church goers but also for Catholics refreshing their understanding of the faith. It includes a dinner followed by a 45-minute video and a 45-minute discussion. There's also a weekend away mid-course. It was first designed for non-Catholic Christians, but Catholics asked for it as well. Many bishops around the world have recommended Alpha for Catholics as well as papal preacher Fr. Raniero Cantalamessa. Some of the fruits of Alpha included the story of a Springfield diocese priest who was preparing to retire, but when he saw the effects of Alpha in enlivening his parish, he asked the bishop to delay his retirement. There is also Alpha for Youth, which uses youth presenters and talks and videos intended for them. Many agnostic and atheist-leaning kids come in and are completely turned around. There have been 16 million globally who have gone through Alpha. In New England, there have been more than 5,000. Why should Catholics do Alpha? More than 80% of Catholics don't attend Mass and many of those who do go, go out of obligation. Alpha helps engender a personal relationship with Christ. Alpha attendees routinely come to full sacramental participation in their parishes. It provides an important point of entry back into the Church for lapsed Catholics as well. It works best with the blessings of the pastor. There is a regional team of Catholic advisors to help train the parish's Alpha team. There are five upcoming luncheons and evening gatherings for pastors, parish staff, and lay volunteers to introduce them to Alpha leading up to training in June, which will equip them to lead Alpha in their parishes. * March 28, St. Mary, Rowley * April 4, St. Malachy, Burlington * April 5, Sacred Heart, Bradford * April 11, St. Joseph, Needham * April 14, St. Joseph, Holbrook One of the good ways to start Alpha is to attend a course at a nearby parish with other key leaders from your parish. A list of Alpha courses is available on the Alpha USA website. * [Alpha USA: New England](http://alphausa.org/Groups/1000045884/New_England.aspx) * [Alpha New England](http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=35964711541) * [Alpha for Catholics Boston](http://www.northshorecm.org/AlphaForCatholics.html) **6th segment:** Scot welcomes George Martell, the archdiocesan photographer, to talk about the Boston Catholic Flickr.com photography site. As he shoots photos at live events, the photos are automatically uploaded so they are available within minutes of being shot. It's especially good for people to follow along with friends and family who are on pilgrimages. George and Dom Bettinelli will be with the World Youth Day pilgrimage to Madrid this summer. George said that working with the Boston Herald for almost 20 years he never had that immediacy of contact with viewers. * [The BostonCatholic Flickr page](http://www.flickr.com/BostonCatholic) * [George's photos of the devastation of Haiti after the earthquake](http://www.flickr.com/photos/bostoncatholic/collections/72157623543912342/)
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