Podcasts about Ashland Theological Seminary

Elaine Heath is the abbess of Spring Forest, a new monastic community in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Spring Forest centers around communal prayer and meals, a vibrant farm, refugee support, and other ministries you can read about here. You can learn more about Elaine's work as an author and speaker on her website, or in articles like this one from the Center for Action and Contemplation.Many thanks to Elaine and her husband Randall for welcoming Ron and I and our audio producer, Colin, to the farm last June. Besides relishing the good company of our hosts, we enjoyed harvesting cabbage, feasting and praying with the Sunday evening group, walking through the woods, and petting some good-natured goats.Dr. Elaine HeathOn the farm.Someone had to help harvest the cabbage, so Ron and Colin and I pitched in.Elaine, husband Randall, and I in their lovely home.TRANSCRIPTElaine Heath If you are nurtured by traditional church—or let's say, conventional church—keep doing it, but also realize that for other people that's not nurturing. It feels dry and lifeless, and it's clear the Spirit is doing something new. So instead of insisting everybody stop doing the new thing, and everybody has to come and do the conventional thing, you can be conventional in your worship and bless and make space for others so that we have a plethora of experiments going on.Debra Rienstra Welcome to the Refugia Podcast. I'm your host, Professor Debra Rienstra. Refugia are habitats in nature where life endures in times of crisis. We're exploring the concept of refugia as a metaphor, discovering how people of faith can become people of refugia: nurturing life-giving spaces in the earth, in our human cultural systems, and in our spiritual communities, even in this time of severe disturbance. This season, we're paying special attention to churches and Christian communities who have figured out how to address the climate crisis together as an essential aspect of their discipleship.Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Dr. Elaine Heath. Elaine is founder and abbess of Spring Forest, a new monastic community centered on a 23-acre forest and farm property near Hillsboro, North Carolina. The farm supplies a CSA and supports food security for refugees and serves as the setting for outdoor programs for kids, cooking classes, potlucks, forest walks and more. But the Spring Forest community is a dispersed network of people who move in and out of the farm space in a variety of ways. They live on the farm for a time, they visit often to volunteer, or they simply join the community online for daily prayer. We got to visit the farm last spring, and I can tell you that Elaine's long experience with new monasticism, trauma-informed care, and contemplative practice make her an ideal curator of refugia space. The vibe on the farm is peaceful, orderly, and full of life. It's a place of holy experimentation in new ways to form Christian community and reconnect with the land. Let's get to it.Debra Rienstra Elaine, thank you for talking with me today. It's really great to be with you.Elaine Heath Yeah, I'm glad to be with you too.Debra Rienstra So you served in traditional parish ministry and in religious academia for many years, and then in 2018 you retired from that work to found Spring Forest. Why a farm and a new monastic community? What inspired and influenced this particular expression of faith?Elaine Heath I've always loved farms and forests. But actually, my dream to do this started about 25 years ago, and my husband and I bought a 23 acre property in North Central Ohio, right when I was right out of my PhD program and I got my first academic job at my alma mater, which is Ashland Theological Seminary. So I went there to direct the Doctor of Ministry program, and we bought this beautiful property. It had a little house that looked like the ranger station, and it had a stream and a big labyrinth cut in the field, and it had beautiful soil to grow, you know, for market gardening. And what we planned to do was gradually develop retreat ministries there. My husband was going to build some hermitages up in the woods, because I did a lot of spiritual direction with pastors who were burned out and traumatized, and we felt like that, you know, as I got older and phased out of academia, that would be something we could do together.So we were there for a couple years, and then I was recruited to go to Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University. And we were very sad to leave our property behind, but we were clear that we were being called to Texas. So we bought a home in the city in a sort of mixed income, racially diverse neighborhood in Garland, and it was a big house with a nice yard, and soon after starting to teach evangelism—which, I kind of created my own path for how to teach evangelism, because I don't believe in selling Jesus or any of those kinds of colonizing things. So I was teaching about living a contemplative life and practicing social and environmental justice and being good news in the world, and being good neighbors to all our neighbors, and thinking of our neighbors as us and not them. And I had them reading Shane Claiborne and the people writing with the emerging church movement at the time, and pretty soon, I had students in my class coming to my office every week. It was a different student, but the same tears and the same kind of narrative: “Dr. Heath, I think I'm going to have to leave the church to answer my call. Tell me what I should do.” And it was because they were being called to do innovative, new monastic ministry, missional, new monastic kinds of things. But our denomination in particular didn't quite get it, even though early Methodism was very much like that.So I realized fairly quickly that this was God calling me through these students to focus my research and writing and my teaching in the area of emergence. Emergence theory, what's happening in the world. How do these currents of emergence intersect with what's happening politically and environmentally, and what's happening, you know, in the economy and with the church. So pretty soon, I don't know, it wasn't very long, I felt God was calling me to gather students and start some experiments outside, out in the city. And so I had a prayer partner, and we were praying for a house to come available, so that we could start a new monastic house. And she came to me one day and she said, “I saw the house coming. It'll be here soon.” And I said, “Okay.” I had no money for a house. You know, kind of a lowly professor, didn't make that much. And within two weeks, one of our neighbors came to me, who didn't really know me well at all, and said, “Hey, my mom has a rental property. It's been in our family for a long time, and we wondered if you might have some students that would like to live there. We won't even charge rent, just pay their utilities and not have drug parties or whatnot.” And I said, “No, that's unlikely,” you know. So I said, you know, I could throw the phone down and ran down to get in her car and go over to this house with her. And we were driving over, and she says, “You know, it's not the best neighborhood.” I said, “Perfect!” But we got there, and it was a really great little three bedroom house in a predominantly Latina neighborhood, and that was our first new monastic house. So I asked three of the students who'd been crying in my office, “Would you be willing to break your leases wherever you live and come and live here for a year?” And I can assign a spiritual director to work with you, and I can write a curriculum for an independent study on the theory and practice of new monasticism. And we can develop a Rule of Life based on our United Methodist membership vows. And they all immediately said yes, and so that's how we got started with our first house.Elaine Heath And then right around the same time, I started a missional house church that was quickly relocated into the neighborhood where most of the refugees are resettled in Dallas, because one of my students brought six Congolese men to our little house church worship, and that that was the beginning of realizing we were called to work with refugees.Debra Rienstra Oh, I see.Elaine Heath So that all got started around 2008. And by 2009, there was a student who came to Perkins who had been a commercial real estate banker on Wall Street. And he came to Perkins as a student. He was an older man. And we were going on my very first pilgrimage to Iona, Northumbria, and Lindisfarne, and Michael Hahn was with us too. He and I team-taught this class, so it was my first one. But it turned out that Larry Duggins, the student, had come to seminary because he really wanted to be equipped to help young adults who were feeling disillusioned with the church but wanted to be out in the world doing good work. And he started describing what he was called to, and I'm like, “Well, that's what I'm doing with these students.” So we joined forces and created a nonprofit called Missional Wisdom Foundation, and within three years, we had a network of eight new monastic communities across the metroplex. They were all anchored at local churches. Some of them were parsonages that weren't being used. And we wove into the expectations and sort of the lifestyle of those houses, urban agriculture.Debra Rienstra Oh, I was waiting for the farm to come back into it. Yeah, because I'm seeing these threads of experimentation and monasticism and place. We're sitting here today on your current farm land. So it's really interesting to hear all these threads being developed early on in an urban context.Elaine Heath Yes, it was quite something. These houses were all in different social contexts. There was one house, the Bonhoeffer house, that was in East Dallas, in a neighborhood that was not only mixed income and racially diverse, but also used to be where the mayor lived. And now there are people who are unhoused living there, and there are also people with nice houses living there. So it was a very interesting neighborhood. So that house, we learned quickly that you needed to take a year to get to know the neighborhood before you try to figure out how you're going to support whatever justice work needs to happen in the neighborhood. But that house got really close with the unhoused community and did a lot of good ministry with the guys and a few women. Then there was one for undocumented workers, the Romero House, and just different social contexts. But all of them had a backyard garden or, you know, some type of growing food kind of thing. And I used to take students to this farm that was an urban farm in DeSoto, which is just south of Dallas, where it was quite small, but these were former missionaries, the type that have crusades and show the Jesus film and everything in sort of poor countries. And then they had an awakening that happened, and they realized they were being called to help people in orphanages learn how to grow their own food in a sustainable way and raise the living standard for the whole village. So they had this little farm, and I would take students there every semester to experience the conversion of thought that this couple had over what mission is, and to experience the beauty and joy of tilapia that provide food for the lettuce, that provide for the bees, you know. So this closed system. So that also affected my imagination about what I really wanted to do in the future.And so gradually, the years—we were there for 11 years, and we lived in community the whole time that we were there. By the time we came here for me to work at Duke, we had a very clear picture of what we wanted to do here. And so we looked for the property back when we had to sell that first farm, when we were so sad about selling it, I had an experience in prayer where I sensed God was saying to me, “Don't give up on this dream. It's sacred, and it will happen in the future on a better piece of property, at a better time in your life for this.” And so when it was time to move here, I said to Randall, “This is the time. Let's look for that property.” So that's how we landed here.Friendly, very contented dairy goats, hanging out in the afternoon.Debra Rienstra Yeah. When talking about your students, you mentioned yesterday that you like to “ruin them for fake church.” So what do you mean by fake church, and how exactly do you ruin them for it?Elaine Heath Well, you know, church is really the people and not the building. You all know that. It's the people and we're called to be a very different kind of people who are a healing community, that neighbor well, that give ourselves away, that regard our neighbors—human and non human—as part of us, whether they think they're part of us or not. We have this sort of posture in life. And when I think of how Jesus formed the church, Jesus had this little ragtag group of friends, and they traveled around and did stuff and talked about it, and they got mad at each other and had power struggles and drama and, you know, and then Jesus would process the drama with them. And he would do these outrageous things, you know, breaking sort of cultural taboo to demonstrate: this is what love really looks like. And so we don't get to do much of any of that, sitting in a pew on Sunday morning, facing forward while the people up in the front do things. And so many churches—maybe you've never experienced this, but I certainly have. The pastor's sort of the proxy disciple while people kind of watch and make judgments and decide whether or not they want to keep listening to those sermons.Debra Rienstra Oh yes.Elaine Heath So when you experience Christian life in a community where it's both natural, it's just the way you live in the world, and it's also liturgically rich, and the life is a contemplative life, and it's also a life of deep missional engagement with the world— that other version of church, it's like oatmeal with no flavoring in it. It makes you, I mean, it's about the life together. It's how we live in this world. It's not about sitting somewhere for an hour once a week and staring forward.Debra Rienstra Right. Yeah, so I would, you know, of course, I would describe what you're describing as refugia, being the people of refugia. You know? Not that I'm—we'll come back to traditional worship and traditional forms of faith and religion. But it seems like what you're doing is living into something you say on your website that we are in the midst of a new reformation in the church, and I certainly sense that too. I think the evidence is all around us, and the research bears out that we've reached this inflection point, and it's a painful inflection point that a lot of people think of as decline, because living through it feels confusing and bewildering and dark and full of loss. So what is your sense of when we are, in this point in history, in particular, for those of us who've been part of church communities, where are we finding ourselves? Why is it so confusing?Elaine Heath I really believe we're in a dark night of the soul as the church in the West and perhaps places in the East too. I know we've exported a capitalist version of church all over the world, sadly. But I believe we're in a dark night of the soul, you know, classically understood, where it's spirit-breathed. It's not that the devil is doing something to us. It's spirit-breathed to detach us from our sort of corporate ego that thinks we get to show up and boss the world around and act like we own the joint.Debra Rienstra We call that church of empire.Elaine Heath Yeah. And so I think that's what's happening. And when, you know, if you study the literature, if you work in spiritual direction, and you're looking at what happens with the dark night of the soul. That's a real dark night, not a clinical depression or something like that, but an actual dark night. You have to go through it. You can't bypass it. You can't work your way out of it. You can't talk your way out of it. And what happens is you find yourself increasingly hungry for simplicity, for a simple but clear experience of God, because it's like God's disappeared. There's a deep loneliness, even a sort of cold hell, to being in a dark night of the soul. And so there's a restlessness, there's a longing for actual experience of God. There's a feeling of futility. Things that used to work don't work anymore. So you know the threefold path? The purgation, illumination and union is one way that we've learned to think about what happens. The purgation part is— we're there.Debra Rienstra We're being purgated.Elaine Heath We're being purgated, yeah. And at the same time that we're having these flashes of intuitive knowing, this sort of illumination is coming. “Oh, let's pay attention to the saints and mystics who lived through things like this. What gave them life? What helped them to keep showing up and being faithful?” And we're having moments of union too, when we feel like, “Oh, discipleship means I make sure that the trees are cared for and not just people. Oh, all living things are interconnected. Quantum physics is teaching us a spiritual truth we should have known already.” So the three parts of that contemplative path are happening simultaneously. But I think what feels most forward to a lot of people is the purgation piece where you're like, “Oh, things are just dropping away. Numbers are dropping. Things that used to work don't work. What's going to happen now?” Sort of a sense of chaos, confusion. Tohu va bohu, yeah.Debra Rienstra Yeah, do you want me to explain what that is?Elaine Heath Yeah, chaos and confusion. From the beginning of time.Debra Rienstra It's the realm out of which creation is formed. So the idea that the spirit is drawing us into this dark night is actually really reassuring. We are where we're supposed to be. And even though it feels confusing and painful, there are these moments of wisdom—that's so reassuring. In fact, one of the things you write: the new reformation is all about the emergence. So this emergence is happening of a generous, hospitable, equitable form of Christianity that heals the wounds of the world. What is your vision about what the church needs to release and hold and create right now?Elaine Heath We need to release everything that even slightly has a hint of empire, that we have thought of as what it means to be the church, because that completely reverts what church is supposed to be about. So giving up empire, we need to take up the great kenotic hymn of Philippians two and actually live it.Debra Rienstra The self emptying hymn.Elaine Heath The self emptying. And it's not—I know that that can be problematic when we're thinking of women or, you know, groups that have been forced to empty themselves in an exploited way. But that's not really what that's all about. It's about showing up to God, paying attention, seeing what God's invitation is, then cooperating with that and just releasing the outcome. That's what that's about, and really finding out, what am I in this world for? What are we in this world for? And being about that and not about something else.Debra Rienstra Yeah, it's hard to release the ways that we have done things. Well, you have a congregation, you have a pastor, you have a sanctuary, you have programs, you want the kids to come, you need tithes, all of those systems. And actually, what you're doing here at Spring Forest—let's talk about that. What you're doing here at Spring Forest doesn't have any of that. Sunday services. There's no church building. You have barn buildings, you have farm buildings. No Sunday school, no adult ed, no choirs, organs, praise bands, any of that stuff, right? Do you think of Spring Forest as a new model for church? Perhaps one among many?Elaine Heath It's one among many. We're definitely shaped by traditional monasticism. We're shaped by early Methodism. We're influenced by the Catholic Worker Movement, and definitely Bonhoeffer's work and a number of others: the Clarence Jordan and Koinonia farms. And so we're influenced by all of those. We do have music sometimes at Forest Feast, if we have someone that can lead it, and, you know, do a good job. But the backbone of our worship life is morning and evening prayer. And that is so wonderful. You were here last night for Forest Feast, and we use the same structure we use for morning and evening prayer, and we have a group of about six people who are writing the liturgies for us, who have been writing for a year and a half now.Debra Rienstra Who are those people?Elaine Heath Well, there's Steve Taylor is our lay leader, and his wife, Cheryl, and then there's Donna Patterson, who's—none of them were here last night. They all had to go somewhere. But some of them are lay people. Some of them are clergy.Debra Rienstra And they don't live here?Elaine Heath No, they live— well, some of the people that write live far away, and they're in our digital community. But, yeah, Steve and Cheryl live in Lumberton, which is, you know, almost two hours away. But they're beautiful. I mean, if you go online and look at some of the last month, look at the prayers and see the—they're just truly beautiful, and they reflect our spirituality of our community.Debra Rienstra Yeah. So the community, it seems to me, you have had people living on the farm itself, but your community, like the Iona community, is both located here on this land, but also dispersed. And so you have that interaction, that conversation between this residential life. So let's try to describe for listeners: there's the farm. You live here with your husband. You have interns from Duke. You have a farm. What do you call Larry?Elaine Heath He's our farm coach.Debra Rienstra Coach, yes, I love that. They have the farm coach who has the farming knowledge that you all sort of follow. You have chefs. They don't live here either, but they come in. So you have a lot of people coming in and out on this farm. And you do regenerative farming. You have programs for kids, you have refugee support, and you can talk about that, trauma informed rest for spiritual leaders. And then a number of other things. The farm produces vegetables and those go to a CSA, and also a lot of it is donated. Why this particular assembly of activities? How does it all fit together? And what are the theological principles beneath each of these endeavors?Elaine Heath The overarching principle is that the Holy Spirit gives gifts to every believer and to every person, let's just be honest. And the job of the pastor, the pastor teacher, is to fan those gifts into flame, to help them have the support they need to use their gifts and that the ministries should be shaped by the gifts of the people, which means you can't use a cookie cutter. And we have numerically a small community, but incredibly high capacity of people. So we have these gifts that they have, and then the ministries are emerging out of those gifts. And it might seem like, why do you have refugee support? And you know, just name anything else we're doing. How does this fit together? The organizing principle—okay, so you have the foundation. These are gifts given by the Spirit. Our ministries are emerging from our gifts. And the organizing sort of a cohesive piece is our rule of life that ties everything together. And so our rule of life is prayer, work, table, neighbor and rest. And that rule of life came about after we lived here for a year, when we first started Spring Forest with—there was another pastor that co-founded it with me, Francis Kinyua, who's from Kenya, and he was my student in Dallas, and did all those other things with me. So we invited him to come. We had to work with three different bishops to kind of make it work. But it worked, you know. Anyway, we just waited for a year to see. We had lots of work to do with getting the farm ready to go and Francis and I went to Church World Service right away to say, “Hey, we have a lot of experience supporting refugees, and we would like to do that here as well.” So we got started with that, but we waited a year and then just articulated, what are the practices that we do that are keeping us grounded here and keeping us right side up. And it was those things, so we named it.Debra Rienstra Okay, you were just doing it, and then you named those things.Elaine Heath Instead of creating sort of an aspirational rule and tried to live into it, we named what was actually working, what was actually grounding us and felt life giving.Debra Rienstra Hi, it's me, Debra. If you are enjoying this podcast episode, go ahead and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform. If you have a minute, leave a review. Good reviews help more listeners discover this podcast. To keep up with all the Refugia news, I invite you to subscribe to the Refugia newsletter on Substack. This is my fortnightly newsletter for people of faith who care about the climate crisis and want to go deeper. Every two weeks, I feature climate news, deeper dives, refugia sightings and much more. Join our community at refugianewsletter.substack.com. For even more goodies, including transcripts and show notes for this podcast, check out my website at debrarienstra.com. D-E-B-R-A-R-I-E-N-S-T-R-A dot com. Thanks so much for listening. We're glad you're part of this community. And now back to the interview.Debra Rienstra You do partner a lot with, you know, “regular church folk.” It's that sort of in-and-out permeable membrane. How do you think about the relationship of what you're doing here, with Spring Forest, with the work of sort of standard congregations, is there like a mutuality? How do you think about that?Elaine Heath It's just like traditional monasticism. You've got a community that have this rule of life they follow. People who are not living in the community can become Oblates to the rule of life and have a special relationship. And usually those people go to church somewhere else. Part of our ethic here is we want to resist competition between churches, so we don't meet on Sundays to do things like programmatically. We usually just rest on Sundays and watch a movie and eat popcorn, you know.Debra Rienstra That's a spiritual practice.Elaine Heath But also, so there's that sort of historic piece, and people from churches come here for retreats. Lead teams come for retreats. People come—pastors, we have a lot of pastors who come here for a retreat. But also we are a mission community, so we're very active with supporting refugees. We're very active with the food programs that we have, and that gives people from a church—lots of churches don't have things like that going on. They don't have the resources for it, or they haven't figured it out. But that way, we can partner with churches and people can come here and they can actually get their hands in the soil, and they can teach somebody to read, and they can see little children learning where food comes from. They can help the chef with her kitchen things, you know. So it's a wonderful way to provide spiritual formation and missional formation to congregations that don't have those resources. And we can do these things together.Debra Rienstra Yeah. And that's that's premised on this being a place, an embodied place, a refugia space that people can come to. Yeah. I think that's a wonderful model. Do you yourself ever feel a sense of loss for “the old ways?” And I'm just thinking of this because at the beginning of your book, God Unbound, which is about Galatians, you write about how Paul challenges the Galatians to let go of their tight grip on the past, and you write about how you, reading that, felt yourself like a little bit of a traditionalist, you know, sort of defending, “But what about the past? What about the old ways?” Which you have loved too, right? So, how would you counsel people who have loved traditional church despite everything, and really do feel this sense of loss and wonder anxiously about what's next?Elaine Heath Yeah, I feel empathy. You know, something was going on in the Middle East at the time. I can't remember exactly the situation. There's always something going on, but it had to do with people's culture being wiped out and being told that what they believed didn't count and wasn't right and everything. And I was feeling such grief for them, and then all of a sudden, you know, I'm in Galatians, and think, “Well, that's how those people felt.” And even myself, there are things in my own daily practice that are—they're precious to me. My way of praying in the morning, the facing into the forest, you know, and things like that, that are rituals for me. And thinking, you know, if somebody told me “that doesn't matter,” how hard that would be. So I think in the spiritual journey, we come to the place, if we keep maturing, where we realize, in Merton's words, that so often we think it's the finger pointing to the moon, we think the finger is the moon. And it's that way about rituals and all sorts of things that we do, and we get to a place where we realize that intellectually and even spiritually, in an emotional way. But you can't force people to get to that point. This is something that happens as we grow and mature as life goes by. So what I have said to many people is, “If you are nurtured by traditional church, or, let's say, conventional church,”—because which traditional church are we talking about? One, right here, middle class, white, are we talking about Brazil? —”So if that nurtures you, keep doing it. But also realize that for other people, that's not nurturing. It feels dry and lifeless, and it's clear the Spirit is doing something new.” So instead of insisting everybody stop doing the new thing, and everybody has to come and do the conventional thing, you can be conventional in your worship and bless and make space for others so that we have a plethora of experiments going on. Because we're in a time of great emergence, as Phyllis Tickle wrote, and we need lots of experiments.Debra Rienstra Yeah. I appreciated what you wrote about trial and error. It's a time of trial and error, and it's okay to try things and have them not work. And that fits the refugia model too, really, really well. I mean, refugia don't always work. They just sometimes fail. Let's talk about a couple of key metaphors that I've noticed in your writings and in the website for Spring Forest too. One is that metaphor of the mycelial network, so the underground fungus that connects the creatures, the beings, the plants, the trees of the forest. I think is a wonderful metaphor too, for the way that faith and climate people, people who are worried about the climate crisis, and also people of faith—it's a great metaphor for how they're finding each other and connecting and building this sort of cultural and spiritual soil where the seeds of the future can grow. How is that metaphor meaningful for you here at Spring Forest?Elaine Heath Well, it means a lot in terms of the first of all, the diversity of expressions of ministry that are even here on the property, but also, especially in our dispersed community, through following the rule of life together, which—we are a practice-based community, rather than a dogma-based community. So as people are practicing those practices where they live and work and play, then they are forming community in a very specific, contextual way where they are. I think of Steve and Cheryl again, the friends I mentioned earlier. He's our lay leader. They live in a, I think a working class neighborhood in Lumberton, which is the land of the Lumbee here in North Carolina. And they have developed a wonderful, just neighborhood ministry there with—and they've been able, through potluck dinners and front yard barbecues and remembering people's birthdays and things like this, they've developed this friendship network in the neighborhood with people that are on complete opposite sides, politically, racially, and this is in the South, where you've got all sorts of issues. And they've taken the sort of ethic of Spring Forest here, but it's caused a mushroom to bloom there that looks really different from here. They don't have a farm, they don't have a forest, they've got this neighborhood. But the neighboring, the praying, the tabling, resting, all of those things are part of how they live there. And so it's fruiting there. And it's the same in other places in the world where we have people that live there.Debra Rienstra It's a good example, too, of how eating together is sacramental, both here and in these other networks that are connected to you. The Garden of Eden and the vision of the New Earth in Revelation are both important to you, that that whole long scriptural arc begin in a garden, end in a garden city, and then the Tree of Life is also your symbol, your logo. So how would you situate our work today as people of faith in that long arc of history, from the garden to the Garden City, and how does the Tree of Life fit into that for you?Elaine Heath There's a way in which the whole story is happening simultaneously. Does that make sense?Debra Rienstra Yeah.Elaine Heath It's all happening beyond time, sort of simultaneously. So sometimes we're living in the garden and we've been deceived, and now we have to figure out what to do, and sometimes we're rebuilding the wall, and sometimes we're on our way to Bethlehem, and sometimes we're in the garden of the new creation. And we can see it, and we're living that truth even while there's still the wall being built. There's a simultaneity to it all. But for me, I think especially of the theology of Julian of Norwich. That's why we have her icon here. There's this vision of love making all things new, that God, Christ, the risen Christ, says in Revelation 21:5, “Behold, I make all things new.” All things, not just a handful of people who get the right doctrine, not just—no, all things: horses and amoeba and all things are being made new in mysterious ways that we can't completely know.Debra Rienstra And that's Colossians one and Romans eight as well.Elaine Heath It's this thread that comes through scripture, and we get to participate in that, even while we don't see all the things completely made new, we get to be part of that. And to me, that's what it means to follow Christ. That's what it means to be a disciple. And to be the love of God enfleshed in this world is to keep participating in the making of all things new. This is why healing has such a central role in my theological vision and my practice, is it's making all things new.Debra Rienstra Healing land, healing people, healing communities.Elaine Heath Yeah, yeah. Healing theology. Theology has been so damaged by patriarchy and philosophy and all sorts of things, you know, and racism.Debra Rienstra Colonization. Yeah, so that embodiment is important even theologically, because we're not aiming for some abstract doctrinal perfection. We're not aiming to become disembodied creatures. We're aiming for this embodied redemption. And so working on the farm, healing, you know, getting muddy, walking through forests, harvesting veg, and you're able to invite people into that embodiment. Little kids doing yoga, I think that's wonderful. You know, just finding this kind of rest in their own little bodies. Eating—one of the most embodied and kinship-with-creation things we do, right? Taking it inside ourselves. And that, I think, is condensed in ritual. So I know that you have been playfully experimenting with rituals. I was able to be a part of the Forest Feast last night with my husband Ron and our friend Colin. And it was this beautifully curated event where we shared table together and then went through this prayer sequence that you described, and it was beautifully participative. I noticed you do a blessing of the animals too on the farm. So good thing these are blessed chickens and blessed dairy goats, blessed dogs and cats. What other sort of liturgical shenanigans have you tried to help people live into this embodied faith practice?Elaine Heath We do so many things. It's so much fun. It's never boring. It's never boring. We have a ritual in the fall, in late November, where we tuck the farm in and put it to bed for the winter, and we have the children come, we get some compost. You know, we've cleared out the beds, and they're gonna rest now. And so the children put some compost in. And we have a liturgy that we use. We light candles, and we thank Mother Earth for the food, we thank God for the opportunities. And so this is one of the things that we do ritualistically. We also have a spring ritual. It's very Hebrew-Bible like, right? With these seasons and the crops and the things with the liturgical seasons, we also have done a bunch of things. My favorite one so far was for epiphany, and this was two years ago. And so I had the interns from Duke Divinity School do the bulk of the planning. I just gave them a little bit of guidance about the four-fold order of worship and just some things like that. So we had a journey through the forest. It started here. We went on the forest trail. Of course, it was dark outside, and they had gone ahead and set up fairy lights at certain places where we're going to stop. And one of the interns' fiance was a musician, so he had his guitar, and he had one of those things where you can play the harmonica and play the guitar at the same time, but he was our troubadour, and all of us were the Magi. So there's this troop of Magi, and we would stop at each station along the way, and there were prompt questions that we would take five minutes, and people could respond to these questions. There would be a scripture reading, and we respond to the question, we go to the next station. And it was so amazing. People shared from their lives in a very deep way. It surprised me how quickly they went deep. Well, it was dark, and there were these twinkle lights, and there was the troubadour. Then we finally got up to the Christ child, and we went into the goat barn. And honestly, I get chills every time I even remember this. But the students had set up in the goat barn—and the goats were in the barn. Okay, they were behind a little chain link thing so they didn't step on the icons and everything. But they had set up an altar at the base of the feeding trough with a big icon of Mary with the Christ Child, candles, and some other things there. There were different icons and some fairy lights. And we went in there, and we all crowded in and began to sing. We sang “This Little Light of Mine,” we sang some Christmas carols, and finished the story. And then we came back to the house and had some snacks and talked about what kind of wisdom was given to us since we were Magi. We were going to be people seeking wisdom and seeking—it was the most beautiful thing. And we've done lots of things like that. We see the land here is a primary text to learn from and to listen to and to observe, not as a metaphor, but as, it's actually a conversation partner. So we do things like that.Debra Rienstra That playfulness is so exciting to me, this sense of using our tradition, using our scriptures, using the skills that we've honed as people of faith over generations, singing together, praying together, but experimenting with those things in new contexts and new ways, in new forms of embodiment that are just faithful and yet playful. And so, as you say, people go deep because they're sort of jarred out of their habitual ways, and that can be such a great formational moment and bonding moment too, and it's very memorable. We remember that in ways—you know, you had such joy on your face as you're describing that. What would you say as you look back over the last, well, let's see, it's been almost eight years? Seven, eight years here at this location. What would you say has given you the most anguish and what has given you the most joy?Elaine Heath Oh, anguish. Which story should I tell?Debra Rienstra Yeah, I don't want to make it sound like it's all been beautiful and romantic and perfect.Elaine Heath Whenever you have community, you have drama. Well, you know, at your typical church, you're gonna have drama sometimes. But what we've found a few times, and it's pretty predictable. This happens in traditional monasteries too, which is why they have novitiate periods that are sometimes quite lengthy and sort of staggered, like you put your toe in the water. People of very high capacity who are deeply grounded spiritually and have a real vision for the gospel, are attracted to community life like this. People who are really hurt, who've had a lot of brokenness, especially from religious institutions or abusive situations, trauma that that is unresolved, that has a lot of unhealed wounds, are also attracted to places like this, often with a sort of utopian hope, because of, you know, life's deficits.Debra Rienstra And they feel that this is a place of healing, and they're right about that.Elaine Heath They're right about it. And so what actually happens is sometimes with the person, the second category of person, will come and join in and just be so full of gladness, because, “Oh, these, these are real people, like they're really doing things in the world. This is what I've longed for.” But then, as relationships form, and we're doing life together, and we all bump up against each other at times, the unhealed wounds fester. And the way I see it is, God's bringing them to a place where, if they'll just do their inner work now, now that it's clear what's the next step—if they'll take the next step, whether it's get some therapy, stay on your meds, get some support for your addiction recovery, whatever the things are—if you'll take the next step, then this is a very supportive community that can help you. It's a village that can be around you and you will heal here in the context of this village. But sometimes people are not willing or not able, or it's not time in their own sense of what they can do, and so then they'll leave. Sometimes when people leave, this happens in traditional churches, for whatever reason, this is a common sort of psychological reaction, they'll create some sort of chaotic drama to be the excuse for leaving, rather than have to face the fact that it was time for me to take the next step, and I was too scared. Because that takes a lot of self awareness, you know, to come to realizations about things like that. So I know from talking to people, from, you know, friends that are in traditional monasteries and convents that this is a common thing that happens there. So it happens here sometimes, and it's never easy. It's always painful and always challenging, you know, but with God's help, we get through it. And so that's the anguish, when those kinds of things happen. We've had a time or two where, over the last 20 years, really, where a person would come in, usually a young adult who's very idealistic, and they're like, “This isn't a new monastic community. You're not forcing people to pray three times a day!” You know, whatever the thing is that they have in their head that is supposed to be, because we're pretty gracious, you know.Debra Rienstra You don't get up at three in the morning.Elaine Heath Yeah, that's not us. We can't do that because, especially if you've got families with children and, you know, you've got to get up and go to work in the morning. So sometimes there will be somebody that figures they know more than everybody else in the room, and they want to take over and run the joint. You know, that's not going to happen. So then that sometimes creates some anguish. What about the joy? The joy is—and there's so much to give me joy. I really, really love seeing people come alive, like I really love seeing people who have, especially people who have been harmed by religion, because of their identity or because of anything, and they find deep spiritual friendship. They find how to connect, in Buechner's words, their deep passion with the world's great need, and start a new thing. And it gives them so much joy. And it's actually helping people. It's helping the world. And just sort of fanning that flame, that gives me a lot of joy. I have so much joy being in touch with the land and the animals. I just really experience them directly mediating God to me. I feel the divine life in them, and I feel, I guess I get a lot of dopamine hits when I'm out there harvesting and when I'm, you know, brushing the goats and talking to the chickens and whatnot.Debra Rienstra They are blessed chickens!Elaine Heath They are blessed chickens.Debra Rienstra What advice would you give to church people who, even though they love their church and their community, recognize that something needs to change, but they don't know where to start? What advice would you give?Elaine Heath To start in their own home, if at all possible, start in their own neighborhood. Start having neighbors over for dinner. Do not tell them we're going to have a Bible study now, because that's—it's not to have a Bible study. It's to form friendships with our neighbors. Start neighboring well. Figure out who lives on my street. Who lives across the street? Invite them for dinner. Have neighborhood potlucks. We did this in Texas, right after we moved there, I think they're still going. We'd have 50 people in our house sometimes. But just invite the neighbors for dinner. Have a potluck. Get to know them. Remember their birthdays, go to their kids' graduation. When you find out their mother died, go to the funeral. It's so simple. It's just such basic neighboring. That's where to start. It's not a church program. It's not making you stop going to church somewhere, to go to church over here. What you're actually doing is living church in your own neighborhood. Start doing that.Debra Rienstra Elaine, it's been such a pleasure to be here on the farm with you and to talk with you, get to know you a little bit. Thank you for what you do, and thank you for spending some time with me today.Elaine Heath It's been a joy. Thank you for the interview.Debra Rienstra Thanks for joining us for show notes and full transcripts, please visit debrarienstra.com and click on the Refugia Podcast tab. This season of the Refugia Podcast is produced with generous funding from the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship. Colin Hoogerwerf is our awesome audio producer. Thanks to Ron Rienstra for content consultation as well as technical and travel support. Till next time, be well. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit refugianewsletter.substack.com

“That is why the Lord says, ‘Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don't tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.' Return to the Lord for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.” Joel 2:12-13The book of Joel, the second of the minor prophets, is such a beautiful book. It's not long, only three chapters, but packs quite a spiritual punch. It tells of a locust swarm. It tells of a call to repentance and what it means to rejoice in the Lord. It tells of the promise of the Spirit of the Lord. It tells of God's judgment against enemy nations and blessings for God's people. Joel is surely a book that, even though it might not be the most taught-through, has a lot of recognizable truths. To help us navigate the book of Joel is Dr. David Baker. David is Professor of Old Testament at Ashland Theological Seminary and author of a number of commentaries including one on Joel. Doable Discipleship is a Saddleback Church podcast produced and hosted by Jason Wieland. It premiered in 2017 and now offers more than 400 episodes. Episodes release every Tuesday on your favorite podcast app and on the Saddleback Church YouTube Channel (https://www.youtube.com/saddleback).Resources Related to This Episode:https://www.amazon.com/Joel-Obadiah-Malachi-Application-Commentary/dp/0310207231Subscribe to the Doable Discipleship podcast at Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/doable-discipleship/id1240966935) or Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/1Zc9nuwQZOLadbFCZCmZ1V)Related Doable Discipleship Episodes: Navigating the Bible: Hosea - https://youtu.be/nWZ4TuAUSRQNavigating the Bible: Daniel - https://youtu.be/bnQ-PioWxfgNavigating the Bible: Ezekiel - https://youtu.be/hlg6gBYxqsgNavigating the Bible: Lamentations - https://youtu.be/6rrizlXeYXENavigating the Bible: Jeremiah - https://youtu.be/lXPjWl8PdRkNavigating the Bible: Isaiah - https://youtu.be/NZJLaPkgEgsNavigating the Bible: Song of Songs - https://youtu.be/Sg0CYlNBVMgNavigating the Bible: Ecclesiastes - https://youtu.be/-Wr7LCh8F9ENavigating the Bible: Proverbs - https://youtu.be/DytRT5AsZg8Navigating the Bible: Psalms - https://youtu.be/oZeesooAYUINavigating the Bible: Job - https://youtu.be/14jaf2T1eCQNavigating the Bible: Esther - https://youtu.be/7RZ7ATWQZucNavigating the Bible: Nehemiah - https://youtu.be/Gok4WDgwn5INavigating the Bible: Ezra - https://youtu.be/aBC0nEjYeyoNavigating the Bible: 2 Chronicles - https://youtu.be/OG3rHTgMgEINavigating the Bible: 1 Chronicles - https://youtu.be/lQ_Qc4zbfgANavigating the Bible: 2 Kings - https://youtu.be/04q9gDhBKTkNavigating the Bible: 1 Kings - https://youtu.be/aS-KoeQXl2kNavigating the Bible: 2 Samuel - https://youtu.be/ZbpafGgOW7cNavigating the Bible: 1 Samuel - https://youtu.be/lY8wPElSFMYNavigating the Bible: Rute - https://youtu.be/YaH-t-ZzTaMNavigating the Bible: Judges - https://youtu.be/qNGcOf2o0NUNavigating the Bible: Joshua - https://youtu.be/hF28aThBtFsNavigating the Bible: Deuteronomy - https://youtu.be/HzmNgPOM4zUNavigating the Bible: Numbers - https://youtu.be/H1HO6V9HDxsNavigating the Bible: Leviticus - https://youtu.be/08RhDCXYex4Navigating the Bible: Exodus - https://youtu.be/NB9UTpS1F3MNavigating the Bible: Genesis - https://youtu.be/ddhjMfOoasAInspiring Dreams by Keys of Moon | https://soundcloud.com/keysofmoonMusic promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/Creative Commons CC BY 4.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

When Paul applies temple language to the Corinthians by calling them naos theou (“God's temple”), he sparks a creative process between the temple and the Corinthian assembly, enabling the Corinthians to see themselves in a new light. Join us as we speak with Tony Basham about his recent book, Paul, the Temple, and Building a Metaphor (Bloomsbury, 2024). David Anthony Basham (PhD, McGill University) is Assistant Professor of New Testament at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biblical-studies

Ojonimi Bako, Co-Founder of Kaya AI, shares his inspiring journey from Nigeria to the United States in a recent Nomad Futurist Podcast episode with co-hosts Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence. His story exemplifies the immigrant experience, highlighting themes of resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of the American dream. With over 20 years of experience as a seasoned entrepreneur and former technology executive, Bako's journey is not just about personal triumph but also about driving innovation across various industries.At the age of twelve, Bako immigrated to the United States from a small Nigerian town. His father, a pastor, was sponsored by missionaries to study at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. The family's immigration process was fraught with difficult decisions, as Bako recounts:"My mom was given a visa when I was ten years old ... she had thirty minutes to decide which of the two of the four kids she was going to give the visa to because the embassy only approved two of the four visas for the kids."This decision marked a significant turning point in Bako's life, highlighting the sacrifices and difficult choices faced by migrating families.Upon his arrival in America, Bako encountered the challenge of adapting to a new culture and language. His multilingual background proved advantageous in navigating this transition. Bako emphasizes how these early experiences shaped his worldview:"Perspective in so many regards is the definition of my experience in life ... I've had so many instances where I was able to reflect on the fact that I didn't grow up here ... it grounded my ability to have composure in circumstances where I naturally otherwise would not."Bako's upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and a focus on education. He notes that his parents prioritized academic success over material possessions, further fueling his ambitions:“We didn't grow up watching TV ... Our parents valued education so much ... [My parents] made it very clear that you are a function of how hard you can work in spite of the circumstances."Bako's story illustrates his resilience and unique perspective as well as the transformative power of education, particularly within immigrant communities. His success demonstrates the power of dedication and groundedness in achieving one's dreams.To learn more about Ojonimi Bako, connect with him on LinkedIn.

Send us a textWelcome baddies to Called to be Bad. In this episode I talk with professor, anti-racist, anti-oppression and peace educator Regina Shands Stoltzfus who co-authored the book Been in the Struggle: Pursuing an Antiracist Spirituality with Tobin Miller Shearer. Our primary topic is critical race theory, but we cover other elements of anti-racism and anti white-supremacy work within the world of education and church-life. BioRegina Shands Stoltzfus was born in Cleveland, Ohio, and lived there the first half of her life. She currently lives in Goshen, Indiana, and teaches at Goshen College in the religion, justice and society department. Regina is co-founder of the Roots of Justice Anti-Oppression program (formerly Damascus Road Anti-Racism Program) and has worked widely in peace education.  She holds a master of arts degree in biblical studies from Ashland Theological Seminary and a PhD in theology and ethics from Chicago Theological Seminary. She is the author of two previous books and her many articles have appeared in publications such as Sojourners and The Mennonite. She has also written for the Anabaptist Historians blog.Resources: Where to find Regina: https://www.goshen.edu/faculty/reginass/https://www.mennomedia.org/author/regina-shands-stoltzfus/Her book: https://heraldpress.com/9781513809458/been-in-the-struggle/Roots of Justice: https://www.rootsofjusticetraining.org/Wider Stand: https://www.widerstandconsulting.org/The water tracking app Regina mentions

Women of Substance with Dr. Scarlett Horton⁣ Episode 83 - Dr. Scarlett Horton interviews Valerie Peterson ⁣ __________⁣ Valerie Peterson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Masters Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida, where she specializes in women’s issues, marriage and family issues, and addictions. Valerie is also a licensed therapist on staff with Path of Grace, Inc. where she works with woman dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. In addition to her Mental Health practice, Valerie is a conference speaker and regular guest on radio talk shows addressing current life issues. She is also a licensed minister, having been licensed and ordained through the International Conference of Faith Ministries. Valerie is an award-winning writer, recognized by Parenting Publication of America specializing in psychological, educational and health topics. Valerie is the author of four booklets; Waiting on God to Move? Six steps to get His attention, Bullyproof our Schools, Keeping Your Marriage Strong – Ten Tips for a Dynamic Marriage, and Tips for Positive Parenting. She lives in Florida and has three grown children, and five grandchildren. In this episode, Scarlett and Valerie discuss Valerie's newest book, "Eternal Perspective: Our Family’s Journey Through Grief and Loss." In her book, she and her family share their personal journey when her husband suddenly passed away. Keeping an eternal perspective helped them through their darkest of days. Your faith will be refreshed as you watch.⁣ __________⁣ http://ValeriePeterson.org/ https://ScarlettHorton.com __________ TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://gvly.org/s/NNHT.5REoBw OR TEXT Proverbs31 to 844-544-8383

Women of Substance with Dr. Scarlett Horton⁣ Episode 83 - Dr. Scarlett Horton interviews Valerie Peterson ⁣ __________⁣ Valerie Peterson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Masters Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida, where she specializes in women’s issues, marriage and family issues, and addictions. Valerie is also a licensed therapist on staff with Path of Grace, Inc. where she works with woman dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. In addition to her Mental Health practice, Valerie is a conference speaker and regular guest on radio talk shows addressing current life issues. She is also a licensed minister, having been licensed and ordained through the International Conference of Faith Ministries. Valerie is an award-winning writer, recognized by Parenting Publication of America specializing in psychological, educational and health topics. Valerie is the author of four booklets; Waiting on God to Move? Six steps to get His attention, Bullyproof our Schools, Keeping Your Marriage Strong – Ten Tips for a Dynamic Marriage, and Tips for Positive Parenting. She lives in Florida and has three grown children, and five grandchildren. In this episode, Scarlett and Valerie discuss Valerie's newest book, "Eternal Perspective: Our Family’s Journey Through Grief and Loss." In her book, she and her family share their personal journey when her husband suddenly passed away. Keeping an eternal perspective helped them through their darkest of days. Your faith will be refreshed as you watch.⁣ __________⁣ http://ValeriePeterson.org/ https://ScarlettHorton.com __________ TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST: https://gvly.org/s/NNHT.5REoBw OR TEXT Proverbs31 to 844-544-8383

America's Leadership Authority” Dr. Derrick Noble has been helping business leaders take their leadership and communication skills to the next level of excellence for two decades. His passion has led him to support those from all walks of life to become more influential leaders and more confident communicators.Throughout his youth, Noble endured years of speech therapy for a severe stutter and speech impediment. Once quoted as stating he was “the least likely person to be a professional speaker,” Dr. Noble has since gone on to become an award-winning TEDx speaker, speech coach, and trainer. He now famously quips “At first, I couldn't talk, and now they can't shut me up!”Noble works directly with leaders, speakers, business owners, CEOs, non-profit organizations, and governmental agencies. His clients throughout the years include The United States Air Force, The United States Navy, The United States Forestry Service, The FBI, the City of Los Angeles, and so many more. In 2020, Noble was one of only 12 Black entrepreneurs admitted into the Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce's prestigious Business Evolution Program – an intense 12-month program in which he was personally mentored by some of the most successful Black entrepreneurs in the city. In 2021, he was featured in the Los Angeles Business Journal as an influential African American business leader. He currently serves as the featured Leadership Expert for BizTV, a national broadcast network for entrepreneurs and business owners, and he hosts “The Dr. Derrick Noble Show” on KGGR of Dallas, TX – the largest Black-owned radio station in the US.In December 2022, Noble released his highly anticipated first book, Leadership Launch: Essential Skills for New Leaders.  It quickly became an international best seller, and was designated as the #1 new business book worldwide within its first two weeks of availability. The book includes a foreword by Civil Rights hero Dr. Melba Pattillo Beals, a member of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African-American students who were the first to integrate Little Rock Central High School.Noble has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English - with a double minor in Speech Communication and Psychology - from Angelo State University (1994), a Master of Divinity degree from Morehouse School of Religion (1997 Class Valedictorian), a Doctor of Ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary (2008 Class Valedictorian), and completed Ph.D. coursework in Educational Curriculum at Emory University. Noble is an avid fan of the Los Angeles Clippers, Lakers and Dodgers; of classic jazz (particularly John Coltrane, Art Tatum, and Miles Davis), and also plays the jazz trombone himself. In addition, he is an ardent golfer, and loves watching classic martial arts movies.

In this episode our friend David DeSilva returns to the Dojo to talk about the aspects of ancient culture that are crucial to understand if we want to make sense of the New Testament! Timestamps: 00:00:00 - Intro 00:15:30 - Honor 00:37:37 - Patronage & Reciprocity 00:54:24 - ‘losing our salvation'? 01:03:24 - Kinship 01:14:23 - Purity 01:19:53 - Christians and food (Act. 15 and 1Cor. 10) “Honor, Patronage, Kinship, and Purity" is available at: https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Patronage-Kinship-Purity-Unlocking/dp/1514003856/ Check out David's blog at: https://apocryphalwritings.wordpress.com/about/ For more info on Ashland Theological Seminary, where David teaches, head to: seminary.ashland.edu ***Disciple Dojo shirts and other gifts are available over in our online store! - https://tinyurl.com/24ncuas2 ***Become a monthly Dojo Donor and help keep us going! - https://www.discipledojo.org/donate ***If you are an unmarried Christian looking for community, check out our Facebook group “The Grownup's Table” over at www.facebook.com/groups/grownupstable ------ Go deeper at www.discipledojo.org

In my conversation with New Testament Professor, Dr. Ben Witherington III, I ask Dr. Witherington about his journey into scholarship, about the decline of biblical literacy in the west and about some of Jesus' teachings on money and the places where Christians struggle to live those teachings out. It was a pleasure to talk Dr. Witherington and I hope now that you are both as challenged and encouraged in your listening to this conversation as I was in having it. Dr. Ben Witherington III is Amos Professor of New Testament for Doctoral Studies at Asbury Theological Seminary and on the doctoral faculty at St. Andrews University in Scotland. Witherington has also taught at Ashland Theological Seminary, Vanderbilt University, Duke Divinity School and Gordon-Conwell. He has written over sixty books, including The Jesus Quest and The Paul Quest, both of which were selected as top biblical studies works by Christianity Today. He also writes for many church and scholarly publications, and is a frequent contributor to the Patheos website.

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 535 - Iconoclastic Sex:  Christian Sexual Ethics and Human Trafficking   Guest: Henry Walter Spaulding III   Christian sexual ethics operates from a place of privilege when it does not consider those impacted by its moral prescriptions. A large majority of publications on Christian sexual ethics consider choices and images abstracted from lived conditions of the people called to make these decisions. As such, it leaves out many for whom sex is neither welcome nor a choice. As such, these same texts present images of sexual subjects that marginalize those that do not fit. As the book presents, sexuality, both Christian and otherwise, prioritizes a language of purity that strangles the life of those imaged impure. The present book remedies this emphasis through the language of iconoclasm that blasphemes these images and opens theological reflection beyond the boundary of image-based approaches. Utilizing a qualitative study of survivors of trafficking and those who grew up under evangelical purity teachings, Spaulding narrates sexual ethics in light of their testimonies and the theological resources of iconoclasm to articulate a more just and loving sexuality. The new emphasis on sexual ethics not only resists the prescriptions that create the conditions of sex trafficking but the creation of new communities capable of solidarity and mutuality with those caught in the web of trafficking. Get The Book: https://wipfandstock.com/9781725287204/iconoclastic-sex/ About the Author:   Henry Walter Spaulding III is an adjunct professor of Christian ethics at Ashland University, Ashland Theological Seminary, and George Fox University. He is the author of The Just and Loving Gaze of God with Us: Paul's Apocalyptic Political Theology (Cascade, 2019).     NOT JUST A BLACK FRIDAY SALE THUNDER by Rick Lee James on VINYL ONLY $9.99. (Plus you get a free digital download of the album)     “KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Voices In My Head (The Rick Lee James Podcast) - Episode 535 -Iconoclastic Sex:  Christian Sexual Ethics and Human Trafficking  Guest: Henry Walter Spaulding IIIChristian sexual ethics operates from a place of privilege when it does not consider those impacted by its moral prescriptions. A large majority of publications on Christian sexual ethics consider choices and images abstracted from lived conditions of the people called to make these decisions. As such, it leaves out many for whom sex is neither welcome nor a choice. As such, these same texts present images of sexual subjects that marginalize those that do not fit. As the book presents, sexuality, both Christian and otherwise, prioritizes a language of purity that strangles the life of those imaged impure. The present book remedies this emphasis through the language of iconoclasm that blasphemes these images and opens theological reflection beyond the boundary of image-based approaches. Utilizing a qualitative study of survivors of trafficking and those who grew up under evangelical purity teachings, Spaulding narrates sexual ethics in light of their testimonies and the theological resources of iconoclasm to articulate a more just and loving sexuality. The new emphasis on sexual ethics not only resists the prescriptions that create the conditions of sex trafficking but the creation of new communities capable of solidarity and mutuality with those caught in the web of trafficking.Get The Book:https://wipfandstock.com/9781725287204/iconoclastic-sex/About the Author:Henry Walter Spaulding III is an adjunct professor of Christian ethics at Ashland University, Ashland Theological Seminary, and George Fox University. He is the author of The Just and Loving Gaze of God with Us: Paul's Apocalyptic Political Theology (Cascade, 2019).THUNDER by Rick Lee James on VINYL ONLY $9.99. (Plus you get a free digital download of the album)“KEEP WATCH, DEAR LORD” BY RICK LEE JAMES

Michael has been working with children and families for close to two decades, in a variety of capacities, including as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, Clinical Director, Children's Pastor, Camp Counselor and speaker. After serving as a Children's pastor, he went on to obtain his Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. Following seminary, Michael worked at The Buckeye Ranch in Columbus Ohio as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, working with individuals 12-18 and their families. The primary focus was to work with the family system to assist children who were having difficulties with behavior.Michael founded and leads Gateway Family Services of Illinois, providing trauma focused-equine assisted psychotherapy, Individual & Family Therapy. His team is working with individuals and families across the lifespan who have experienced trauma. Michael has spent several years working with youth in the foster care system & post-adoption. Gateway Family Services is also working with the VA Illiana Health Care System to provide services to veterans. In addition to Gateway Family Services, Michael is currently the Executive Director of Hooves of Hope, a faith-based mentoring program.Michael is passionate about neuroscience and understanding the impact of trauma on the brain. Michael has begun Phase II/TTT with the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics course taught by the leading trauma expert Bruce D. Perry MD, PhD. A part of his training is to work with mentors and help Phase I participants from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Michael is also a trainer for Natural Lifemanship, the model of therapy that incorporates the Neurosequential model to understand human and horse brain development. He was recently inducted into the International Association of HealthCare Providers, being recognized as a leader in his field.In Michael's spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife, Gabby & their twin boys, riding horses, photography, playing the piano, & building projects.In This EpisodeGateway Family ServicesMore Than InformedThe Rising Tide ConferenceMichael on TwitterMichael on LinkedinNatural Lifemanship---What's new with The Trauma Therapist Project!The Trauma 5: gold nuggets from my 700+ interviewsThe Trauma Therapist Newsletter: a monthly resource of information and inspiration dedicated to trauma therapists.This show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5739761/advertisement

Host Drew Powell visits with Valerie Peterson, a licensed family therapist in Destin FL. Valerie shares great advice on coping with grief and healing from the loss of a loved one. Valerie is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Master's Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary.  She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida.  She specializes in issues men and women face, marriage and family issues, and addictions.  Valerie is also a licensed therapist on staff with Path of Grace where she works with women dealing with drug and alcohol addiction.  Valerie is a conference speaker and enjoys doing podcasts and radio talk shows on relevant topics that people face today.  She is also an ordained minister, having been licensed through the International Conference of Faith Ministries. Furthermore, Valerie is an award-winning writer, recognized by Parenting Publication of America specializing in psychological, educational, and health topics. Valerie is the author of four booklets; Waiting on God to Move? Six Steps to Get His Attention, Bullyproof our Schools, Keeping Your Marriage Strong – Ten Tips for a Dynamic Marriage, and Tips for Positive Parenting. For more information contact us atrtrdestiny@gmail.com

Pastor Efrem Smith is an internationally recognized leader who uses motivational speaking and preaching to equip people for a life of transformation. He consults on issues of multi-ethnicity, leadership, and community development. Efrem is the former president and CEO of World Impact: an urban mission, church planting and leadership-development organization. He's the author of several books, including his latest, “Killing Us Softly.” Efrem is a graduate of Saint John's University and Luther Theological Seminary, and received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary, and most recently earned his Doctor of Ministry degree in Church Leadership and Reconciliation Theology from Fuller Theological Seminary. Efrem's latest book is The Post-Black and Post-White Church: Becoming the Beloved Community in a Multi-Ethnic World. In this podcast conversation, we talk about how 2020 opened up many important race conversations and how the church dealt with--and continues to deal with (or not deal with)--those important conversations.  

Dr. Sabrina J. Ellis is a proven organizational development and leadership transformation change agent for corporations and not-for-profit organizations, as well as individuals who desire personal growth coaching.  Dr. Ellis has a niche in forming efficient teams with complementing team members and moving people from potential to promise to position.  Dr. Ellis, a John Maxwell certified coach, is a highly regarded organizational facilitator, keynote speaker, workshop leader, and author who focuses on helping each organization and/or participant reach goals.  After receiving the prestigious 2016 President Barack Obama's Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Ellis became the Chief Visionary Officer of Free to Thrive, which was developed to “challenge the leader within for positive transformations without”.  Free to Thrive focuses on guiding organizations through meaningful change for the greatest impact to employee satisfaction, improved leadership, better resource, and financial management, and heightened awareness for the best customer service.  As part of this initiative, she established Recherché Mentoring Program to influence the lives of adolescent females to reach their potential through philosophical approaches to mental, physical, and spiritual change.  Dr. Sabrina Ellis is a native of Ohio and a product of the Akron Public School System. As a graduate of Notre Dame College of Cleveland, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Dr. Ellis graduated in May of 2005 with a Master of Divinity degree from Ashland Theological Seminary, with an emphasis in Clinical Pastoral Counseling.  Dr. Ellis subsequently continued and earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree in Transformational Leadership in June of 2011.  Having served as an Executive Pastor and a Senior Pastor, inclusive of more than 20 years, Dr. Ellis has invaluable experience in management, facilitation, teaching, conflict resolution, team building, and interpersonal communication.  She has served as Chaplain for the Western Reserve Section of the National Council of Negro Women and the Cleveland Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction.  These experiences led her to form Living in Victory Ministries, Inc., to impart this knowledge to women to enhance their emotional development through spiritual awakening and recognizing their purpose through identity awareness.  Dr. Ellis is the author of three books:  And the Women Came First, The Advancement of Renewal in the African American Pentecostal Church, and Wife Life: Securing Your Future.  She is also the editor of a book of women's testimonies entitled And They Overcame.  She has served as the keynote speaker for several conferences and organizations, including The Black Women's Political Action Committee's 31st Annual Fundraiser in Cleveland, Ohio, and has served as host on Total Christian Television (TCT), a network with over 70 million viewers worldwide.     Dr. Sabrina Ellis has broadened her mission to affect those in need of relationship strengthening, finding purpose in identity formation, and encouraging burgeoning leaders.  She looks forward to helping organizations that struggle with a culture of lethargy and detached leadership as she provides internal processes for positive transformation. Sabrina's Website

In this episode, Rob and Vinnie one of the leading NT Scholars and a leading authority on the book of Revelation, David deSilva.  David is a New Testament scholar and a professor of New Testament and Greek at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio. He received his PhD in Religion from Emory University and has authored numerous books and articles on the New Testament, including: An Introduction to the New Testament: Contexts, Methods & Ministry Formation Commentary on Galatians Commentary on Ephesians Seeing Things John's Way: The Rhetoric of the Book of Revelation Unholy Allegiances: Heeding Revelation's Warning Discovering Revelation: Context, Interpretation, Reception A Week in the Life of Ephesus deSilva is also an ordained elder in the Florida Conference of the Global Methodist Church.   Here is the link to Rob's blogs on Rev 6 and the 3rd Seal  7 Seals and Revelation 3rd Seal and Covid Please "follow" this podcast and give a review on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your review will go a long way toward helping others find this podcast. Then share it with others so that we can get the word of the Gospel of the Kingdom to more people!   Also, our goal is to keep these episodes free of charge. I do not intend to ever hide them behind a paywall. I can only do this if those of you who have been blessed by them and can afford to give ($5, $10, $25, or more/month) do so. You can give a tax-deductible contribution by following this link.     Good news: the determinetruth App: If you wish to view these podcasts on your smartphone through the Determinetruth app simply download the “tithe.ly church” app on your smartphone. As it downloads you will be asked “what church you want to connect with”—insert “determinetruth” as the church name you wish to follow (and Mesa as the city if needed). Then you will be asked if you want the tithe.ly logo or the Determinetruth logo—choose the Determinetruth logo. Once it finishes installing, you will be good to go.  

In this episode of the Business Broken to Smokin' Podcast: Lodestone True North's Head Coach Mark Whitmore interviews Jeremy Lile, Executive Director of Heart to Heart Leadership. https://www.htohleadership.org/ Their discussion includes an overview of using the Enneagram in business, CliftonStrengths, and more! Jeremy's passion is to help people discover and deploy their purpose. For over 15 years, he has coached dozens of individuals and teams to live out their core values. He believes that the foundational skills that come from the inner life have the most potential to inspire people in the work they do. In addition to leading organizational growth as the Executive Director, Jeremy enjoys facilitating The Enneagram, Leadership from Within, Appreciative Inquiry, and StrengthsFinder for Heart to Heart. Through his experience in pastoral ministry and organizational development, Jeremy has spoken at retreats and events, facilitated numerous small groups, organized community engagement, and lead small teams on missions around the country and world. Jeremy is married to the love of his life Christy and they have four children. When he's not working for Heart to Heart, Jeremy is also the lead pastor and visionary for City Hope Akron, a grassroots church and community development organization committed to serving people in West Akron. Jeremy has a B.A. in Psychology from Taylor University and a Master's of Divinity from Ashland Theological Seminary. He is also certified in Appreciative Inquiry, the MBTI and The Enneagram in the Heart to Heart Way. He serves on the board of the International Institute of Akron, the advisory board of the Institute for Leadership Advancement at the University of Akron's College of Business Administration, the committee for Leadership Akron's “Shift Akron”, and as a host at The Landing open choice food pantry at Akron Christian Reformed Church. Jeremy is a graduate of Leadership Akron's Signature Class 34, a recipient of the Greater Akron Chamber's “30 for the Future” award, a recipient of the University of Akron's EX[L] Center “Community Champion” award, and the 2019 recipient of the NSME Akron/Canton's “Outstanding Community Leader” award. 0:00 Intro  4:12 The Heart To Heart way (Look within, lead beyond)… Awareness Appreciation Authenticity Application 9:52 What are some of the outcomes with Heart to Heart or what does it look like when the needle moves for a leader? 17:11 What sort of assessment is around EQ? 18:40 Enneagram reference 20:46 Enneagram summary 22:08 What is your go to for taking the Enneagram?  Rheti assessment, 144 questions… at the enneagram institute website https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/rheti?gclid=CjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMsycB7x2A1KIZLWJB80nI8zXbKUsaYCdFGMNTuyJAXY6_iZLr_pOnxoCWwUQAvD_BwE 25:12 Where did the enneagram come from? 26:17 Reference to Ginger Lapid-Bogda https://theenneagraminbusiness.com  27:54 What's next steps after taking the enneagram assessment? 29:05 Book reference - What type of a leader are you by Ginger Lapid-Bagda 34:32Summary of the nine enneagram types The Heart (mitigate feelings) 2, 3, 4 The Head (mitigate fear) 5, 6, 7 The Gut (mitigate anger) 8, 9, 1 52:31 “Through the lens of the Enneagram” 56:27 Reference to Lencioni's 5 Dysfunctions of Team 58:52 “Invitational accountability” 59:46 Clifton Strengths assessment https://www.gallup.com/cliftonstrengths/en/home.aspx?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=us_strengths_branded_cs_ecom&utm_term=cliftonstrengths&gad=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMl-e7Uzx6OiYpwmUS0n-sG1nRK0aTMlutmcmg66Q8_pz7Nl02p1f2RoC9r4QAvD_BwE 34 core talents or themes Website: https://www.lodestonetruenorth.com LinkedIn Mark: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-whitmore-lodestone/LinkedIn Lodestone: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lodestone-true-northLodestone Online Courses: https://lodestone.thinkific.com Podcast: https://lodestonetruenorth.com/podcast/

Season 4, Episode 12Alan Johnson is an Indiana native and 1973 graduate of Indiana University with a degree in journalism and political science. He spent 44 years as a newspaper reporter, winning state and national awards for his coverage of government, mental health, prisons, human trafficking, and human-interest stores. Alan wrote for the Columbus Dispatch where he covered most of Ohio's 54 executions over 18 years, including serving as an in-person media witness for 21 years.Alan enrolled at Asbury Theological Seminary in 2008, later earning a Master's in Ministry (2014) and Doctor of Ministry (2020) from Ashland Theological Seminary.He authored a book, Death and Forgiveness, My Capital Punishment Witness, in 2022.Columbus Dispatch ArticleAtlantic Article

On this episode of Word Revisited, Allan interviews Dr. David W. Baker, Professor of Old Testament and Semitic Languages at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. The conversation centers around the minor prophets. Why are they referred to as minor? What are the major themes of these twelve preachers? What is their relevance for us today? Dr. Baker is the author and editor of numerous books on the Old Testament which can be found on his Amazon author page. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/allan-r-bevere/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/allan-r-bevere/support

Show Notes   How would a marriage partnership shift when one person contracts a chronic illness? How should we address complementarian standards of gender roles in the home when considering the limits of our spouses? In the Spring 2023 issue of Mutuality Magazine, grief counselor and professor, Kailey Bradley writes about these topics and then joins Erin and Blake for a conversation about Ableism, gender roles, and the interdependency of the gospel.    Disclaimer   The opinions expressed in CBE's Mutuality Matters' podcast are those of its hosts or guests do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of CBE International or its members or chapters worldwide. The designations employed in this podcast and the presentation of content therein do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of CBE concerning the legal status of any country, area or territory or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers.        Bio   Kailey earned her bachelor of arts from Mount Vernon Nazarene University in 2012 and finished her master's in clinical mental health counseling at Ashland Theological Seminary in 2015. Kailey has a background in hospice work and feels that companioning and advocating for grievers is her life's passion. She is a counselor at Refuge Counseling and specializes in working with individuals of all ages, with special interest and care given to children's bereavement, complicated grief, perinatal loss, and chronic illness. Kailey has completed training at the center for loss and life transition and is a licensed clinical thanatologist. Kailey is also an adjunct professor at Ashland Theological Seminary where she teaches grief and crisis counseling courses. She recently contributed an article to the Spring 2023 Issue of Mutuality Magazine titled, “Caregiving & Gender Equity in Interabled Relationships.”     You can contact Kailey in the following ways:  Kailey@allrefuge.com  allrefuge.com      Related Resources  Caregiving and Gender Equity in Interabled Relationships  In Sickness, Never Health: A Mutual Marriage  Persevering with the Woman Who Bled for Twelve Years 

Today Michael Gleason joins Mike Woodruff on the Press On podcast to discuss the revival at Asbury College. Dr. Gleason, who earned both Masters of Divinity and Doctorate of Ministry degrees from Ashland Theological Seminary, and who has held a variety of ministry roles within the church and at various universities, is the author of both: When God Walked on Campus: A Brief History of Evangelical Awakenings at American Colleges and Universities and When God Walked Among Nations: The Leaders and Lessons of the First Great Awakening.

Chaplain Springer needs no introduction, he has returned to Challenges of Faith to provide update on how God has been using him since his last visit here.Chaplain Willie Springer heads the new Veterans Outreach Office in Berea Ohio. He is an Army combat veteran of Vietnam and has a master's degree in theology. Ashland Theological Seminary also named Willie Springer, Ohio's American Legion Chaplain of the Year. In Chaplain Springer's own words I offer an open, sensitive, and non-judgmental presence. I am accepting of all different beliefs, cultures and values of all people. It is my goal to support every Veteran and their Families with as much compassion and care as possible. In this role, I will provide a supportive presence, listening, and appropriate interventions. The Veterans Outreach office will assist vets through educational outreach, support groups, emotional and spiritual assistance and community based programs. As a veteran myself, I understand and recognize the need for a safe, nurturing and community oriented approach for Veterans and Families.

00:00:00 - Intro 00:02:58 - What's going on in Dr. DeSilva's world since SBL 00:06:01 - SBL, ETS, and IBR…what's the difference? 00:10:51 - How do you actually write a commentary? 00:19:16 - A REALLY good point about studying the Bible! 00:2201 - How Dr. DeSilva transitioned from Hebrews to Paul as a focus of study 00:25:26 - the Apocrypha and ancient Greco-Roman societal pressure 00:30:52 - Tobit 00:33:17 - Judith 00:35:48 - Greek Esther?? 00:40:19 - Wisdom of Solomon and Romans & Wisdom of Ben Sirah (aka. Sirach) and Jesus 00:56:17 - Letter of Jeremiah & Baruch (and why they SHOULDN'T be grouped together!) 01:01:48 - Additions to Daniel (Susanna, Bel and the Dragon, etc.) 01:03:56 - The Prayer of Manasseh 01:08:08 - a quick word on Psalms of Solomon, 1 Enoch, Jubilees, and the apocryphal ‘canon' 01:13:48 - Esdras, Maccabees, and why there are SO MANY of each! 01:27:55 - the Catholic apocrypha vs. other apocrypha canons 01:31:37 - How you can study with David on a MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE SHIP!! David's books mentioned in this episode: * “Honor, Patronage, Kinship, and Purity" by David deSilva - https://www.amazon.com/Honor-Patronage-Kinship-Purity-Unlocking/dp/1514003856/ * Lexham Old Testament Apocrypha - https://tinyurl.com/mr3emtsm * Introducing the Apocrypha - https://tinyurl.com/2mk3kxdv * Unholy Allegiances - https://tinyurl.com/pj4srj33 
Check out David's blog at: https://apocryphalwritings.wordpress.com/about/ 
 If you would like info on David's EO Cruise, head over to: https://www.eo.travelwithus.com/tours/pf23092523a#.Y-gUzXbMI2w For information on the Second Global Smyrna Meeting visit: https://www.globalsmyrnameeting.com/ For more info on Ashland Theological Seminary, where David teaches, head to: seminary.ashland.edu Other DiscipleDojo videos: * Should we read the Apocrypha? - https://youtu.be/-IfRUBhPmbQ * Dr. Sean McDonough on Revelation - https://youtu.be/uIk8f9VfPok * Dr. Carmen Imes on Bearing God's Name - https://youtu.be/44RqvPjsgQM 
 **DiscipleDojo swag is available in our online store! - https://tinyurl.com/24ncuas2 ***Become a monthly Dojo Donor at - https://www.discipledojo.org/donate

Purchase your 2023 Lent Devotional HERE!!"The word compassion, which means to suffer with, like the idea that Jesus has compassion - yes! because he did it. That's the ultimate, epitome of God's compassion. Christ coming is saying, you know what I can't get them to be more like me until I become more like them."Rev. Dr. Cheryl Lindsay is here this week to share her brilliance and expertise around worship; but even more so, she speaks to the God who knows, sees, and understands us. She knows what it is to wonder if she is qualified for the call God placed on her heart - you know that question we've all wondered: am I enough? Good enough? Smart enough? Thankfully, she trusted in the call and is here sharing what she has learned on the journey about what it means to worship beyond just in the sanctuary, but in our every day lives.About Rev. Dr. Cheryl:Cheryl Lindsay was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio.  She attended the University of Pennsylvania and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics with a concentration in Marketing.  In 2012, she graduated with honors from Ashland Theological Seminary with a Master of Divinity degree with a concentration in Evangelism and Church Renewal.  The Doctor of Worship Studies at The Robert E. Webber Institute of Worship Studies was conferred upon Cheryl in June 2018.  Cheryl enjoyed a successful career in financial services prior to launching her own business.  In 2008, she accepted the call to pastoral ministry and served at Mt. Zion Congregational Church, United Church of Christ in various capacities.  She is a contributing author to Those Sisters Can Preach:  22 Pearls of Wisdom, Virtue and Hope and Lesser Evils: Daily Reflections on Seeking Wisdom. Cheryl A. Lindsay Ministries specializes in developing worship planning communities, revitalizing liturgy and worship design, infusing worship with the creative arts, and coaching worship leaders. In 2019, Cheryl was called as pastor and teacher to First Congregational UCC of Wellington, Ohio. The United Church of Christ named Cheryl as the Sermon Seeds Writer and Editor in 2020 and expanded her role to Minister for Worship and Theology in 2022. In this work, Cheryl provides worship resources, theological reflections, and bible studies for the denomination and Christian faith communities around the world. Cheryl believes that God has called her to use all her gifts for the glory of God.  Her hobbies include singing, creative writing, crafting and drama.  She has volunteered on numerous boards and committees in the communities she serves. In addition, she is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.Cheryl loves to connect on social media and can be found @RevDrCherylL on most platforms. You can also find Cheryl's worship resources here.Connect with us!Sign up to receive a little Gospel in your inbox every Monday Morning with our weekly devotional.Check out our website for great resources, previous blog posts, and more.Get some Lady Preacher Podcast swag!Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook

REVEREND DR. WILSON ARIMI ASHLAND, OHIO Reverend Dr. Wilson Arimi is resident of Ashland, Ohio. Rev. Arimi originally lived in Atlanta, GA and worked in Nashville, TN. Prior to moving to America, he lived in Kenya where he was a teacher and principal. He received his doctorate at the Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, OH.

Today we have Esther Moreno on as we talk about Trends in KidMin in 2023. Things we can have a jump on, things she is seeing as she travels and leads in Kids Ministry. Esther has dedicated her life to reaching the next generation, and their families, for Christ. She has over 15yrs of Kid's Ministry experience across various churches and denominations. She's the host of Children's Ministry Today on the Fishbowl Radio Network. In addition to hosting monthly live webinars on social media, she leads virtual trainings for kids ministry departments all over the country. She is a gifted speaker, teacher and author. She holds a masters in Christian Education from the Ashland Theological Seminary. She currently lives in Alabama with her husband and 2 children. Esther has a heart to teach leaders, reach leaders and raise up the next generation. We think you'll be encouraged today. SHOW NOTES

Dr. L. Daniel Hawk is a Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary. In this interview, I chat with Dr. Hawk about his views on divine violence and how to make sense of the Flood, the conquest of the Canaanites, and much more. Dr. Hawk's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/L.-Daniel-Hawk/author/B001KHXE7I?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true -------------------------------- GIVING -------------------------------- Please consider becoming a Patron! Patreon (Thanks!): https://www.patreon.com/AdherentApologetics

In this episode of Believing Is Seeing, we interview Dr. Jason Barnhart, Associate Professor of Historical Theology at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. We discuss the topic of pietism, what it is and why heartfelt faith is not heavenly-minded humbug. Check out Jason's blog, "Brethren Contemplative," here. Learn more about Ashland Theological Seminary, here. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/allan-r-bevere/message

This week on the show we welcome our new friend Esther Moreno. Esther Moreno has dedicated her life to reaching the next generation for Christ. She has over 15 years of Children's Ministry experience across various churches and denominations. She is one of the hosts of Children's Ministry Today on Fishbowl Radio Network. In addition to hosting monthly live webinars on social media, she leads virtual trainings for Children's Ministry departments all over the country. Esther is a gifted speaker, teacher, and author. She holds a Masters in Christian Education from Ashland Theological Seminary. She currently lives in Huntsville, Alabama with her husband Guylando and their two beautiful children, Grace and Gideon. You are not going to want to miss this interview! You will love Esther and her heart to reach leaders and raise up the next generation. SHOW NOTES

Dr. Sabrina J. Ellis talks with me about her book Wife Life: Securing Your Future. This is episode 501 of Teaching Learning Leading K12, an audio podcast. After receiving the prestigious 2016 President Barack Obama's Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Sabrina J. Ellis became the Chief Visionary Officer of Free to Thrive, which was developed to “challenge the leader within for positive transformations without.”   Free to Thrive focuses on guiding organizations through meaningful change for the greatest impact to employee satisfaction, improved leadership, better resource, and financial management, and heightened awareness for the best customer service.  As part of this initiative, she established the Recherché Mentoring Program to influence the lives of adolescent females to reach their potential through philosophical approaches to mental, physical, and spiritual change.  Dr. Ellis, the author of three books, is a proven organizational development and leadership transformation change agent for corporations and not-for-profit organizations, as well as individuals who desire personal growth coaching.  Dr. Ellis, a John Maxwell certified coach, is highly regarded.  She has served as an Executive Pastor and a Senior Pastor for more than 20 years. Dr. Ellis has  served as Chaplain for the Western Reserve Section of the National Council of Negro Women and the Cleveland Chapter of Top Ladies of Distinction.  These experiences led her to form Living in Victory Ministries, Inc., to impart this knowledge to women to enhance their emotional development through spiritual awakening. She authored the following books: And the Women Came First, The Advancement of Renewal in the African American Pentecostal Church, and Wife Life: Securing Your Future.  She is also the editor of a book of women's testimonies entitled And They Overcame.   A native of Ohio, she is a graduate of Notre Dame College of Cleveland, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology. She also earned a Master of Divinity degree from Ashland Theological Seminary, with an emphasis in Clinical Pastoral Counseling.  Dr. Ellis  earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree in Transformational Leadership.  She has served as the keynote speaker for several conferences and organizations, including The Black Women's Political Action Committee's 31st Annual Fundraiser in Cleveland, and has served as host on Total Christian Television (TCT), a network with over 70 million viewers.      She resides in Dallas, Texas.  Great conversation. So much to learn... But wait... By the way, the new intro and outro music was written and performed by Brian K. Buffington. Connect with Brian at briankbuffington@gmail.com or go to his website at  https://briankbuffington.com/ He is an awesome musician, comedic power, teacher, trainer, technology guru, and overall creator of all that is cool. Thanks, Brian! Oh, yeah... Could you do me a favor? Please go to my website at https://www.stevenmiletto.com/reviews/ or open the podcast app that you are listening to me on and would you rate and review the podcast? That would be Awesome. Thanks! Hey, I've got another favor...could you share the podcast with one of your friends, colleagues, and family members? Hmmm? What do you think? That would so awesome! Thanks for sharing! Thanks for listening! Connect & Learn More: https://www.sabrinajellis.com/ https://www.sabrinajellis.com/product-page/wife-life-securing-your-future Length - 52:15

Let Freedom Rain! Release Toxicity and Live Free RETREAT: Bring a Friend Special: Whoever signs up at full price ($350- All inclusive) will get a code emailed to them that will allow a friend to sign up free! Special runs from June 21 to June 28 at Midnight. http://freedomrainsretreat.com Mandy Leigh Lindsey is a mental health and spiritual wellness coach specializing in trauma recovery. She is also an author and a public speaker. She is trained in inner healing and deliverance, psychology, and Christian counseling. She is a survivor of many things including narcissistic abuse and sex trafficking.   Michelle Rene' Hammer is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Pastoral Counselor, #1 International Best Selling Author, Motivational Speaker, and a BREAKTHROUGH Coach, CEO of Twin Programs she founded. Michelle helps women Break Through to abundant joy-filled lives of purpose. Kelly Williams Hale is a writer, speaker, and leader. She's an Amazon #1 Best Selling author and is passionate about equipping believers to be brave. As a confidence coach, Kelly empowers discouraged Christian women to overcome self-doubt, worry, and fear so they can live a life of significance, courage, and confidence. Lu Ann Topovski obtained her master's in divinity degree through Ashland Theological Seminary in 2007. She then obtained her MBA in 2010. She has owned two counseling centers and has published four books. Lu Ann is a high-level Pastoral Life Coach. She teaches 12-week online classes, has a YouTube Channel, and is the TV host for The Kingdom View. Video Version: https://youtu.be/HZfKWWgug98 Call in with a comment or Chat with Teresa during Live Show with Video Stream: Call 646-558-8656 ID: 8836953587 press #.  To Ask a Question press *9 to raise your hand. Or click YouTube icon to write a question Learn more about Teresa here: www.webebookspublishing.com http://authenticendeavorspublishing.com/

Steve Witt is the Senior Leader of Bethel Cleveland. His passion to see believers come into their God given potential has motivated him to plant churches in the U.S. and Canada. He's a strategic builder with a prophetic gift. His life has been marked by timely prophetic encounters and dreams that have guided his life and given direction and encouragement to many. "There's a nightingale in the house," words from a prophetic dream, have become a confessional of God's healing promise during a personal battle with cancer. Steve's desire to encourage people to hear God's voice has led him to write, "Voices: understanding and responding to the language of heaven" and develop training materials for churches and individuals. He completed his B.A. at Central Bible College and later his M.A. from Ashland Theological Seminary.

Michael has been working with children and families for close to two decades, in a variety of capacities, including as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, Clinical Director, Children's Pastor, Camp Counselor and speaker.After serving as a Children's pastor, he went on to obtain his Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. Following seminary, Michael worked at The Buckeye Ranch in Columbus Ohio as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, working with individuals 12-18 and their families. The primary focus was to work with the family system to assist children who were having difficulties with behavior.Michael founded and leads Gateway Family Services of Illinois, providing trauma focused-equine assisted psychotherapy, Individual & Family Therapy.His team is working with individuals and families across the lifespan who have experienced trauma. Michael has spent several years working with youth in the foster care system & post-adoption. Gateway Family Services is also working with the VA Illiana Health Care System to provide services to veterans. In addition to Gateway Family Services, Michael is currently the Executive Director of Hooves of Hope, a faith based mentoring program.Michael is passionate about neuroscience and understanding the impact of trauma on the brain. Michael has begun Phase II/TTT with the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics course taught by the leading trauma expert Bruce D. Perry MD, PhD. A part of his training is to work with mentors and help Phase I participants from the Texas Juvenile Justice Department. Michael is also a trainer for Natural Lifemanship, the model of therapy that incorporates the Neurosequential model to understand human and horse brain development. He was recently inducted into the International Association of HealthCare Providers, being recognized as a leader in his field.In Michael's spare time he enjoys spending time with his wife, Gabby & their twin boys, riding horses, photography, playing the piano & building projects.In This EpisodeGateway Family ServicesMore Than InformedMichael on TwitterMichael on LinkedinNatural LifemanshipThis show is part of the Spreaker Prime Network, if you are interested in advertising on this podcast, contact us at https://www.spreaker.com/show/5739761/advertisement

What's Your God Given Purpose? Bios: Denise Harvey is a published author passionately writing about God's grace. Her children's book Growing up Sassafras -Where is my Daddy? and her newest book, Emergence of Me - Discovering My Identity and Courage Within, are filled with faith, hope in God, and hope that the family can be restored and reunited. She strives to help implant God's love and understanding in the lives of the young, our women, and the aging. Denise believes all can experience transformation, deliverance, and healing when God lives and operates in their hearts. Denise and her retired Air Force husband of 38 years, Junius, have two adult kids and five grandchildren. A graduate of Liberty University, she holds multiple degrees. Free Gift: E-Book (PDF) called "Emergence of Me" ... go to http://www.deniseharvey.com Mandy Leigh is a mental health and spiritual wellness coach specializing in trauma recovery. She is also an author and a public speaker. She is trained in inner healing and deliverance, psychology, and Christian counseling. She is a survivor of many things, including narcissistic abuse and sex trafficking. Free Gift: E-Book (PDF) "Stuck in the Pain of the Past? 5 Keys to Transform Your Trauma Into Triumph" Go to... https://www.mandyleigh.com/free-gift Michelle Rene' Hammer, MS, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Board Certified Clinical Supervisor, Certified Pastoral Counselor, International #1 Best Selling Author, & Motivational Speaker. CEO of twin programs she founded, Turning Leaf Counseling & Consultation &  Crowned Courageous Coaching, Michelle's mission is to help people who are stuck in hurtful, even toxic patterns, BREAKTHROUGH to healthier, happier connections freeing them for abundant, joy-filled lives. She lives in Annapolis, Maryland with her husband Dave, has two grown daughters and several grands whom she adores. Michelle enjoys music, writing, traveling, spending time with family and friends, dancing, and working out so she can keep eating Chef Hubby's amazing food. She also loves walking her dogs, boating, hiking, or beaching it. You can often find her outdoors anywhere near, or better yet, on the water. Most of all she loves God who is her everything. Free Gift: E-Book (PDF) "The #1 Step You MUST Take on Your Path to Purpose w/ BONUS CONTENT of  In Order to Say YES to Your Purpose, You Must Be Able to Say No" Go to... https://www.michellerenehammer.com/free-gift-michelle-rene-hammer-1-1 Lu Ann Topovski is a high-level Biblical counselor and coach. She is certified in spiritual formation, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP). She obtained her master's in divinity degree through Ashland Theological Seminary in 2007, and her MBA in 2010 from Ashland University. She has owned two counseling centers and has published four books: with her most recent book release being, “Rise Above Your Past and Soar Into Your Future.” Lu Ann teaches 12-week on-line classes and she is the TV host for The Kingdom View. Free Gift: E-Book (PDF) "Arise: Keys to The Kingdome Lifestyle" Goto... https://www.thekingdomview.com/   Jacquel Tucker is the youngest of 8 siblings from a rural community in Jamaica where her dad is a pastor and her mother a youth director. She is a former Hospitality Executive with solid expertise in sales, marketing, branding and training. She fully launched into her true Kingdom purpose in 2016, as an entrepreneur and launching her non-profit The Jamaica Project USA which she co-founded with her husband Shun Tucker. Her first book, It's Time for YOUR Transition was published in 2019 and Jacquel was one of 100 women in the USA featured in the 2020 release of the Unselfish Women coffee table book. During the pandemic her non-profit fed up to 2,000 families per month in Georgia and served up to 10 communities in Jamaica. God has set her Purpose on Fire and through her My Purpose on Fire Coaching Program, she now helps kingdom minded aspiring entrepreneurs and professionals discover, ignite and launch their true kingdom purpose in just 90 days. She currently lives in Georgia with her husband and best friend Shun and her parents. She lives by "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me" - Philippians 4 vs 13 Free Gift: E-Book (PDF) "You've Found Your Purpose, Now What? 5 Keys to set your purpose on fire and create a life of joy, passion and fulfillment" Go to: https://www.mypurposeonfire.com/free-gift  Video Version: https://youtu.be/OLS1c6h3Zfg Call in with a comment or Chat with Teresa during Live Show with Video Stream: Call 646-558-8656 ID: 8836953587 press #. To Ask a Question press *9 to raise your hand. Or click YouTube icon to write a question Learn more about Teresa here: www.webebookspublishing.com http://authenticendeavorspublishing.com/

Join my conversation with Lee Wetherbee, PhD, professor of counseling and the counseling department chair at Ashland Theological Seminary. We unpacked the meaning of success in career, in relationships, spiritual wellbeing and on many levels

Episode 173 - Conversations About Children's Ministry With Esther Moreno Episode sponsored by DiverseChurchJobs.com The last few months have been an incredibly insightful ride and a BEHIND THE SCENES tour of Church and Ministry work. We've been going behind the scenes and looking at things that make churches, ministries, and ministry leaders run. It has essentially been a masterclass in ministry leadership. Today, we take it further and welcome Esther Moreno, Founder of Child's Heart Children Ministries to the podcast to discuss her insight, energy and excitement around children's ministry and Next Gen discussions. Esther Moreno has dedicated her life to reaching the next generation for Christ. She has over 15 years of Children's Ministry experience across various churches and denominations. She is one of the hosts of Children's Ministry Today on Fishbowl Radio Network. In addition to hosting monthly live webinars on social media, she leads virtual trainings for Children's Ministry departments all over the country. Esther is a gifted speaker, teacher, and author. She holds a Masters in Christian Education from Ashland Theological Seminary. Esther currently attends Life Church of Huntsville, Alabama, where she resides with her husband Guylando and their two beautiful children, Grace and Gideon. You can connect with Esther here: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube |   If you need further assistance or have questions, feel free to email us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com ================== For Coaching, Questions, or Additional Information: You can contact us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com  - Subscribe via: iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, RSS Feed, and Spotify Enjoy what you're hearing & seeing? Do you mind Rating & Reviewing This Podcast? Your ratings and reviews help us place the podcast in front of new leaders and listeners. Your feedback also lets me know how I can better serve you. If you have the desire to donate financially to The Wise Idea Podcast, you can do so here. A donation of any amount will be helpful in allowing us to creating the movement to INSPIRE WISDOM. DONATE HERE!                                                            About Our Host: Christopher J. Harris, a native of Palatka, Fla., is currently Executive Pastor of Crossover Church of Tampa, Fla. He is also the Director of Administration & Vision Implementation working collaboratively with the Presiding Bishop's Office and Administration for Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. He's served at ministries in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Chicago,IL. He's an author and blogger with two books, Temporary Assignments and Church Strategies and Ministry Systems. He's an alumnus of Florida State University, University of South Carolina, special studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and doctoral work at Nova Southeastern University. He is the Founder / CEO of DiverseChurchJobs.com, a platform helping people of color in ministry to find ministry opportunities. Harris currently resides in Florida with his wife Dr Carmen J Harris and their children. You can check him out here: www.ChristopherJHarris.com You can see his Social media here on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Periscope, and LinkedIn ALL at @CJHarrisOne Here are Christopher's Theological Beliefs: http://christopherjharris.com/what-i-believe/ He is affiliated with the following organizations (among others): www.CrossoverChurch.org , https://www.fullgospelbaptist.org/, and https://www.biblicalleadership.com/ Thank You's: My family for their commitment to the vision to inspire wisdom in others and release me to endeavors like this. To my Producer, Kevin Scullion, our Guests, our Wise Idea Family and our many, many listeners from around the world. (Note: Want your name listed here? Leave a review of this podcast and you may find your name listed here…)      

For Episode 2 of Respect Circles, we're bringing you our very first guest, and we are so excited to be introducing you to her today. Dr. Alesia Johnson, or “Lisa” as she usually is called, has been an important part of Respect Circles since the beginning, and she always brings such wisdom and depth to our conversations (Lisa also happens to be AJ's sister!) Lisa is a product of Richmond City Public Schools and retired from teaching in that same school system after serving and working for over thirty years. She is a certified Diversity, Culture Competence, and Social Justice Trainer for the Virginia Education Association. She completed her undergraduate studies and some graduate studies at Virginia State University and additional graduate studies at the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union, where she earned a Master of Divinity degree with honors. She has an earned Doctor of Ministry in Formational Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio. Lisa is a member of First Shiloh Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, VA, where she works as a counselor with victims of sexual and domestic abuse; couples counseling, teen girls, and individuals who are sensing a need to live life differently. There she also serves as a senior caregiver, a small group facilitator, the Program Director, and a member on the healing care team for the Healing Place ~ Center for Christian Counseling and Spiritual Formation. She leads workshops and seminars nationwide and serves as a speaker/facilitator and preacher for conferences. Prior to her call to ministry at First Shiloh, she was a member at The Saint Paul's Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia for over forty years, where she was licensed and ordained to preach the gospel. She is the Chaplain for the Henrico County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, serves on the Board of Directors for Hope for Families (Camp Hope), and also the Council for Richmond Hill. Lisa enjoys teaching, facilitating, fellowshipping with her family and friends, worshipping, and studying the word of God. She has a passion for the marginalized and privileged, the victim and perpetrator, and believes that we all deserve healing. She has traveled extensively to share the gospel. It is her desire to be used by God to serve as a wounded healer, bringing others to a place of holistic healing.  In this episode, we'll begin to have some real dialogue about the issues that we're all facing in this divided nation, specifically looking at whether or not we have lost our humanity - and if so, how it can be recovered and repaired. You can learn more about Lisa and the work she does at https://alesiajohnson.org/alesiajohnson/, and as always, we invite and welcome your input! Send us your thoughts on what you like about the podcast, what you want to see more of, and who we should invite into the conversation as guests on upcoming episodes. You can always reach us by email, respectcircles@gmail.com , on social media at https://www.facebook.com/respectcircles and https://www.instagram.com/respectcircles/ or by viewing our website at www.respectcircles.com. Thanks so much for listening! We'd love to have you subscribe to the podcast and leave us a rating and review. See you next week! In this episode you'll hear: That work that Lisa does, and what she says matters the most to her when doing it [5:23] What she feels is challenging society in the biggest ways right now [9:14] The main things that people are hungry for, and what would dramatically improve the state of the world that we live in [12:03] What factors Lisa believe landed us where we are at this point in time [16:10] Why the word “reconciliation” causes tension for her, and what she feels is the more appropriate word to use [18:58] Ways that we can collectively start to move towards healing together while advancing the conversation [21:22] The issue that Lisa has with missionary work, and where missionaries are going most often going wrong [25:22] Her best advice for young adults [29:07] A big rule that she lives her life by, and why this is so important to her [35:40] Links & Resources: https://www.facebook.com/dr.lisajohnson https://alesiajohnson.org/ https://twitter.com/DrAlesiaJohnson https://www.instagram.com/dralesiajohnson/ 

Women of Substance with Dr. Scarlett Horton⁣ Episode 11 - Dr. Scarlett Horton interviews Valerie Peterson __________⁣ Valerie Peterson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Masters Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida, where she specializes in women’s issues, marriage and family issues, and addictions. Valerie is also a licensed therapist on staff with Path of Grace, Inc. where she works with woman dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. In addition to her Mental Health practice, Valerie is a conference speaker and regular guest on radio talk shows addressing current life issues. She is also a licensed minister, having been licensed and ordained through the International Conference of Faith Ministries. Valerie is an award-winning writer, recognized by Parenting Publication of America specializing in psychological, educational and health topics. Valerie is the author of four booklets; Waiting on God to Move? Six steps to get His attention, Bullyproof our Schools, Keeping Your Marriage Strong – Ten Tips for a Dynamic Marriage, and Tips for Positive Parenting. She lives in Florida and has three grown children, and five grandchildren. In this timely episode, Scarlett and Valerie discuss the importance of caring for your soul during times of difficulty, disappointment and loss. They also share stories of how they find strength and courage through meditating on the Word of God. Your faith will be refreshed as you watch.⁣ __________⁣ http://ValeriePeterson.org/ https://ScarlettHorton.com __________

Women of Substance with Dr. Scarlett Horton⁣ Episode 11 - Dr. Scarlett Horton interviews Valerie Peterson __________⁣ Valerie Peterson is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Masters Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida, where she specializes in women’s issues, marriage and family issues, and addictions. Valerie is also a licensed therapist on staff with Path of Grace, Inc. where she works with woman dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. In addition to her Mental Health practice, Valerie is a conference speaker and regular guest on radio talk shows addressing current life issues. She is also a licensed minister, having been licensed and ordained through the International Conference of Faith Ministries. Valerie is an award-winning writer, recognized by Parenting Publication of America specializing in psychological, educational and health topics. Valerie is the author of four booklets; Waiting on God to Move? Six steps to get His attention, Bullyproof our Schools, Keeping Your Marriage Strong – Ten Tips for a Dynamic Marriage, and Tips for Positive Parenting. She lives in Florida and has three grown children, and five grandchildren. In this timely episode, Scarlett and Valerie discuss the importance of caring for your soul during times of difficulty, disappointment and loss. They also share stories of how they find strength and courage through meditating on the Word of God. Your faith will be refreshed as you watch.⁣ __________⁣ http://ValeriePeterson.org/ https://ScarlettHorton.com __________

Conversation with John Byron Ph.D. Dean of Ashland Theological Seminary and Professor of New Testament

Episode 167 - When The Church Dreams Again With Dr Efrem Smith, Part 2 Episode sponsored by DiverseChurchJobs.com Some discussions require paper and pen. This is one of them. Our Host, Christopher J Harris, welcomed Dr Efrem Smith to unleash his brilliance and passion around the local church, the black church, the multi-ethnic church and what all of this looks like in the future. He plainly challenged the church to reconsider what happens when we dream again. You can listen to Part 1 of the Conversation here. Efrem Smith is a pastor, consultant, motivational speaker, and author. He is passionate about life transformation, racial righteousness, thriving churches, and community development. Efrem Smith was the founding pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church, a multi-ethnic church in Minneapolis, MN, He also co-founded and was President of The Sanctuary Community Development Corporation.  Efrem served as the Superintendent of the Pacific Southwest Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church, providing leadership to 160 churches within California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, and Utah. He also served as the President and CEO of World Impact, an urban missions organization committed to empowering urban leaders and planting churches in under-resourced communities. Currently, he is the Co-lead Pastor of Bayside Church Midtown, a thriving and multi-ethnic community in Sacramento, California. As an internationally recognized preacher, he has spoken for organizations and events such as Athletes in Action, Campus Crusade for Christ, Youth Specialties, Compassion International, the Urban Youth Workers Institute, and Thrive. He is the author of Raising Up Young Heroes, The Hip Hop Church, Jump, The Post-Black and Post-White Church, and Killing Us Softly. Efrem is a graduate of Saint John's University and Luther Theological Seminary. He received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. He is currently working to complete a doctor of ministry degree from Fuller Seminary. Efrem is married to Donecia and has two daughters, Jaeda and Mireya. Efrem has received many awards such as the Role Model Award from the Hennepin County Community Coalition and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Saint John's University. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. You can connect with Dr Smith here:  Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram |   If you need further assistance or have questions, feel free to email us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com ================== For Coaching, Questions, or Additional Information: You can contact us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com  - Subscribe via: iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, RSS Feed, and Spotify Enjoy what you're hearing & seeing? Do you mind Rating & Reviewing This Podcast? Your ratings and reviews help us place the podcast in front of new leaders and listeners. Your feedback also lets me know how I can better serve you. If you have the desire to donate financially to The Wise Idea Podcast, you can do so here. A donation of any amount will be helpful in allowing us to creating the movement to INSPIRE WISDOM. DONATE HERE!                                                            About Our Host: Christopher J. Harris, a native of Palatka, Fla., is currently Executive Pastor of Crossover Church of Tampa, Fla. He is also the Director of Administration & Vision Implementation working collaboratively with the Presiding Bishop's Office and Administration for Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. He's served at ministries in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Chicago,IL. He's an author and blogger with two books, Temporary Assignments and Church Strategies and Ministry Systems. He's an alumnus of Florida State University, University of South Carolina, special studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and doctoral work at Nova Southeastern University.

Episode 166 - When The Church Dreams Again With Dr Efrem Smith, Part 1 Episode sponsored by DiverseChurchJobs.com Some discussions require paper and pen. This is one of them. Our Host, Christopher J Harris, welcomed Dr Efrem Smith to unleash his brilliance and passion around the local church, the black church, the multi-ethnic church and what all of this looks like in the future. He plainly challenged the church to reconsider what happens when we dream again. Efrem Smith is a pastor, consultant, motivational speaker, and author. He is passionate about life transformation, racial righteousness, thriving churches, and community development. Efrem Smith was the founding pastor of The Sanctuary Covenant Church, a multi-ethnic church in Minneapolis, MN, He also co-founded and was President of The Sanctuary Community Development Corporation.  Efrem served as the Superintendent of the Pacific Southwest Conference of the Evangelical Covenant Church, providing leadership to 160 churches within California, Arizona, Nevada, Hawaii, and Utah. He also served as the President and CEO of World Impact, an urban missions organization committed to empowering urban leaders and planting churches in under-resourced communities. Currently, he is the Co-lead Pastor of Bayside Church Midtown, a thriving and multi-ethnic community in Sacramento, California. As an internationally recognized preacher, he has spoken for organizations and events such as Athletes in Action, Campus Crusade for Christ, Youth Specialties, Compassion International, the Urban Youth Workers Institute, and Thrive. He is the author of Raising Up Young Heroes, The Hip Hop Church, Jump, The Post-Black and Post-White Church, and Killing Us Softly. Efrem is a graduate of Saint John's University and Luther Theological Seminary. He received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. He is currently working to complete a doctor of ministry degree from Fuller Seminary. Efrem is married to Donecia and has two daughters, Jaeda and Mireya. Efrem has received many awards such as the Role Model Award from the Hennepin County Community Coalition and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Saint John's University. He is also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated. You can connect with Dr Smith here:  Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram |   If you need further assistance or have questions, feel free to email us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com ================== For Coaching, Questions, or Additional Information: You can contact us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com  - Subscribe via: iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, RSS Feed, and Spotify Enjoy what you're hearing & seeing? Do you mind Rating & Reviewing This Podcast? Your ratings and reviews help us place the podcast in front of new leaders and listeners. Your feedback also lets me know how I can better serve you. If you have the desire to donate financially to The Wise Idea Podcast, you can do so here. A donation of any amount will be helpful in allowing us to creating the movement to INSPIRE WISDOM. DONATE HERE!                                                            About Our Host: Christopher J. Harris, a native of Palatka, Fla., is currently Executive Pastor of Crossover Church of Tampa, Fla. He is also the Director of Administration & Vision Implementation working collaboratively with the Presiding Bishop's Office and Administration for Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. He's served at ministries in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Chicago,IL. He's an author and blogger with two books, Temporary Assignments and Church Strategies and Ministry Systems. He's an alumnus of Florida State University, University of South Carolina, special studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and doctoral work at Nova Southeastern University. He is the Founder / CEO of DiverseChurchJobs.com,

Dr. Alex Gee has an insightful and honest conversation with two of his friends, fellow men of faith, and fathers of daughters, Dr. Efrem Smith and Rev. Adam Edgerly. Their conversation covers the spectrum of recent concerns for Black people, from patriotism, cross-cultural relationships, racial justice movements, to the future of the US racial landscape. The group also uses the recent film, Judas and The Black Messiah, to spark relevant connections with historical context. This is a powerful snapshot of Black perspective on current events.  Pastor Efrem Smith is an internationally recognized leader who uses motivational speaking and preaching to equip people for a life of transformation. He consults on issues of multi-ethnicity, leadership, and community development. Pastor Smith is the former- president and CEO of World Impact, an urban mission, church planting and leadership-development organization. He is the current co-lead Pastor of Bayside Church, Midtown. He’s the author of several books, including his latest, “Killing Us Softly.” Pastor Smith is a graduate of Saint John's University and Luther Theological Seminary. He received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Adam Edgerly, founding and lead pastor of Newsong Los Angeles Covenant Church, is the director of Covenant World Relief and Development (CWRD). Edgerly has served as the denomination’s associate director of global evangelism and Pacific Southwest Conference director of church planting. Edgerly also is the founder and CEO of Culture Consultants and has led workshops across five continents. He serves on the Board of Trustees at Biola University, where he earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in intercultural studies, which included field research in leadership and language in Mali, West Africa. He earned a master of business administration at Emory University. alexgee.com patreon.com/blacklikeme  

An interview with Rev. Dr. Dan Hawk, Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio (https://seminary.ashland.edu/). --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/allan-r-bevere/message

An Interview with Dr. Dan Hawk, Professor of Old Testament and Hebrew, Ashland Theological Seminary, Ashland, Ohio. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/allan-r-bevere/message

A discussion with Dr. Lee Wetherbee, Professor of Counseling at Ashland Theological Seminary, Ashland, Ohio. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/allan-r-bevere/message

As this podcast goes to air, we are right on the New Moon in Scorpio. This Moon is perhaps the most intense, but also the most transformational one of the year. It is a time to go deep into your fears and shadows to face your demons as you uncover your hidden truths.  This Moon is an opportunity to change your patterns and create new ones, consciously, instead of reacting in your usual manner.  The key to understanding the Scorpio New Moon's gifts is to embrace and trust the process of what unravels. This Moon is about the process, not the results. It's a time to feel into each step of your evolution and stay completely present instead of focusing on the finish line. Use this new moon to set intentions for increased health, wealth and happiness in your life, and in the lives of those you love. We talked about this on the Energy Focus for the week which you can tune into live on Sunday nights on Instagram and Facebook as a way to pull your energy in from the week and focus on what is ahead. Humanity is going through a major evolution and there are infinite possibilities out there to make changes and reach for something greater. As you tune into all the signs around, you can begin to understand what you need to do to balance the body, mind, emotions and spirit which will then generate a healthy state of being. If you are a strong, passionate woman who is ready to take charge of her life and let go of the stories running around inside of your head, let's talk! *Warning: This work just may change your life. It can seriously improve your Body, mind and Spirit. Side Effects: You may see yourself or others as they really are. You may experience loss of excess baggage, resulting in major life changes. You may become the person you were really meant to be. Schedule a complimentary Spiritual Upgrade Breakthrough Session with me and let's see if this program is a fit for you.   My guest today on the Empowered Spirit Show is Eva Melton and our conversation is about her new book, Breadcrumbs to Purpose: Discovering Who You Are and Why You Are Here. We talk about spirituality, religion, soul purpose and your North Star. Eva Melton is the author of the widely acclaimed Breadcrumbs To Purpose. A graduate of Ashland Theological Seminary, Eva holds a Masters in Religion. She finds great joy in coaching individuals in increasing their connection to God and self. She offers one-on-one coaching and expresses spiritual principles through writing and podcasting. Contact Eva at: Website Facebook Instagram YouTube Book Eva is a faith leader and recognizes that you must embrace this North Star to explore the journey of your life, believing that lives are meaningless without an understanding of your purpose. As she says, ”Each person was designed with a purpose in mind.” Finding your soul purpose may not take you far away from home, but it will take you deep within the alignment of your Soul and Spirit. Ready to make some shifts to your way of embracing life as we move into the holiday season? Join me in my Masterclass to learn how to not only survive the holidays, but to thrive through them, all the way into the new year.  Register here. Be spiritually nurtured! To your Spirit, Terri PS... Register for the free Masterclass - How to Thrive Though the Holiday Season - November 16th   Join Terri's Facebook Group  Follow Terri on Instagram Find her on LinkedIn   Episode Credits: Sound Engineer: Laarni Andres https://www.linkedin.com/in/laarniandres/ https://www.facebook.com/laarni.andres.7

Pastor Gerald D.A. Murphy is Mark’s very special guest on the podcast today. Gerald received his Master’s Degree in Christian History and Theology from Ashland Theological Seminary, and he currently serves as the Director of Community Development with Catalyst For Columbus, and is the Pastor of the Columbus Dream Center. The passage he has chosen to discuss with Mark is Genesis 15:1. Gerald begins by sharing his summary of the passage, its meaning for him, and the notion of how God wants to be understood by humanity which he finds within it. He and Mark then explore the significance of God telling Abraham not to be afraid and choosing stars as an analogy for the number of his children, as well as Abraham’s challenge to God and how it relates to us choosing to bring our doubts to God. They also examine Abraham’s reward of his covenant relationship with God, and how Martin Luther King internalized this passage. Gerald concludes the discussion by sharing the lessons he has learned about humankind, which leads to a further discussion regarding what many people expect about having a relationship with God. As you listen in today, you will quickly discover that Gerald has much to teach us all as he turns his formidable analysis to this ‘awesome passage of Genesis 15:1 and the existential questions that follow’. Episode Highlights: · Gerald’s summary of the passage and its meaning for him · How God wants to be understood by humanity · The significance of God telling Abraham to not be afraid · Abraham challenging God · Choosing to bring doubt to God · God choosing stars as an analogy for the number of Abraham’s children · Abraham’s reward of his covenant relationship with God · How Martin Luther King internalized this passage · The lessons about humankind that Gerald has learned · What many people expect about a relationship with God Quotes: “God, He actually defines Himself, He names Himself.” “God wanted…to be known as Abraham’s shield, his defense, and as his exceedingly great reward, and I believe it’s profound to consider out of all of the characteristics, out of all of the attributes, of God, those were the two that he chose to bring Abraham into the understanding of first.” “The prohibition against fear is the most frequently uttered thing in the Torah.” “God seems to want the challenge.” “Bring Me the challenge. Bring Me the doubt.” “When you truly have faith in God, you’re not fearing any man.” “When God becomes your reward, you can have contentment.” “The hope was there even if he wasn’t going to see the fulfillment of it.” “You cannot have a Torah without Moses.” “This idea of God being the reward, I think, is so pervasive in the scriptures and, you know, the Word, and it’s just something that grounds us and it’s something that can really become an anchor for how we approach life.” “The true mark of a great person, or really a good person, is that they will die with their work unfinished.” “When God’s our reward, that courage, that fearlessness will absolutely be there.” “There is an unceasing desire that we have to earn what has been freely given to us in our relationship with God.” “Responding to God and worship is a lot more natural than I believe most would consider it to be.” “We see from the beginning that it’s always been Him initiating relationship with us.” Genesis 15:1 Some time later, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision. He said, “Fear not, Abram, I am a shield to you; Your reward shall be very great.” https://www.sefaria.org/Genesis.15.1?lang=en&with=all&lang2=en Links: The Rabbi’s Husband homepage: http://therabbishusband.com/ Mark’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/markgerson?lang=en

Jonathan M. Wynne is a servant leader. He is Founder and CEO of Kingdom Concepts an education/organization consulting firm. He is an experienced school administrator and education advocate specializing in school culture, climate. He is an active member of the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color.A former Detroit PublicSchools basketball coach, Jonathan serves as Chaplain of the National Basketball Association-Detroit Pistons. He is the author of 6 books, includingIMPACT Parenting: RaisingCollege-Ready Students.Jonathan serves as Co-Host of Parent Support Discussions presented by Citadel of Perpetual Learning.He has earned a Bachelors’ degree and three Masters’ degrees from Eastern Michigan University, Ashland Theological Seminary, University of Phoenix andGrand Valley State University, respectively.Jonathan is a family man, married to his college sweetheart Valerie for35 years. They have 4 adult children and twin grandchildren. His greatest accomplishments are determined, not by what he has done, but what he has inspired and assisted others to achieve beyond their own beliefs.

This podcast was taken from the "The “I” That Teaches” video series.  It is a project that invites senior scholars to talk about their teaching lives. These scholar-teachers candidly discuss how religious, educational, and family backgrounds inform their vocational commitments and, also, characterize their teaching persona. From the vantage point of a practiced teaching philosophy we get an intimate account of the value and art of teaching well.“My mother's faith was foundational, and still is foundational, in terms of what it means to care about other people,” says New Testament scholar Mitzi Smith. “But what is different is that…my faith has developed into a critical faith.” It is a critical engagement with the Gospels, in the service of helping others to deepen their sense of shared responsibility, that she brings into the classroom. Early family experiences, formative relationships and training informs our teaching identity. “I teach with all that I am,” pronounces Prof. Smith. A native of Columbus, Ohio she began her teaching career at Ashland Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan. However, Dr. Smith has recently accepted an appointment as the J. Davison Philips Professor of New Testament at Columbia Theological Seminary in Atlanta, Georgia. 

Reality of Faith and Wisdom Podcast by Yuriy MaybaThis episode is talking about the process of healing, necessary steps that we need to take, and understanding that healing is not overnight, that sometimes it's a life journey.Yuriy Mayba is interviewing Valerie Peterson. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is also a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and a National Board Certified Counselor. Valerie received her Bachelors Degree in Social Work from Ashland University and her Masters Degree in Pastoral Psychology and Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary.  She is currently in private practice with Destin Counseling Center in Destin, Florida, where she specializes in issue's men and women face, marriage and family issues, and addictions.  Valerie is also licensed therapist on staff with Canaan Recovery Foundation where she works with woman dealing with drug and alcohol addiction.

12/11/19 – John Byron – professor at Ashland Theological Seminary in Ohio, on the Biblical book of Philemon, slavery and ancient history. The post The Biblical book of Philemon, slavery and ancient history appeared first on Pilgrim Radio.

Meet our guests and host: First segment: Reverend Dr. Marlene Fuller  end Dr. Marlene Fuller is the pastor of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Mechanicsville, VA. Dr. Fuller is the owner and director of LEAP, LLC where she provides counseling, spiritual direction, and life coaching to individuals and small groups. Dr. Fuller graduated from The College of William and Mary with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Theatre/Speech, an MBA from Averett University, a Master of Divinity from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University and earned a Doctor of Ministry in Formational Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. Learn more - click here! Second segment: Monica M. Bijoux Monica M. Bijoux is the founder and CEO of DECIDE TO MOVE, LLC (DTM), and has been coaching business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals for over 15 years. She also has been working with veterans as they transition from active duty life to business owners and entrepreneurs for the last 10 years. Learn more - click here! Meet our host:  Sharvette Mitchell works with entrepreneurs to help them build their online platform so that they generate more revenue with an amazing online brand. She does this in a couple of ways with web design services, personal branding, social media coaching, and conferences. She is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and for over 12 years she has hosted a weekly talk radio show every Tuesday at 6 pm EST - The Sharvette Mitchell Radio Show. Find out more at www.SharvetteMitchell.com.

Some Kind of Crazy is a powerful memoir written by today’s guest, Terry Wardle, and follows his upbringing as the son of an Appalachian coal-mining family. Though sometimes hilarious and affectionate, his family also left him with a legacy of fear and abuse that followed him into adulthood and landed him in a psychiatric hospital before the age of 40. Accepting Jesus into his heart did not solve all of the un-repaired, emotional ruptures that was present in his life. He found himself on a dual path of wanting to be a follower of Jesus while continuing to limp along with his emotional wounds. It was down in the ditch of his own brokenness that he discovered the incredible work that Jesus can do if we’ll just let Him meet us there. Terry is going to share his untold personal story with us, and how it’s only by looking back that we can move forward in the healing path. Terry Wardle is a Doctor of Ministry, a Counselor, and a Professor at Ashland Theological Seminary. Resources: Are You Real Podcast Twitter Facebook Suggested Reading: Some Kind of Crazy, by Terry Wardle Connect with Terry! Terry Wardle Healing Care Ministries His Books on Amazon Facebook: Terry Wardle HCM Inspirational Scripture “I will give you hidden treasures, riches stored in secret places, so that you may know that I am the LORD, the God of Israel, who summons you by name.” Isaiah 45:3

A conversation about how our past shapes us for today. The trauma that brings and the glory that it can help reveal. Guest Bio: Terry Wardle is a dynamic speaker who leads seminars and retreats designed to equip pastors, counselors, clinicians, spiritual directors, and many others in formational prayer, spiritual formation, and spiritual direction. The author of numerous books and teaching series, he is the founder of Healing Care and HCM International. Professor Emeritus at Ashland Theological Seminary, he also served as executive director of Alliance Theological Seminary. Former vice president of Nyack College, he was founding pastor of Risen King Community Church in Redding, California. He and his wife, Cheryl, currently reside in Ashland, Ohio. Transcript for this episode You can also find all the musical selections from all our episodes on our Spotify Playlist.  Check out all the things over at the store...it's a great way to support the show www.canisaythisatchurch.com/store What are you waiting for; consider becoming a Patreon supporter of the show. You'll have access to many perks as well as guaranteeing the future of these conversations; even $1/Month goes so far as this show is 100% listener supported.  https://www.patreon.com/canisaythisatchurch Follow the show: https://www.facebook.com/CanISayThisAtChurch/ https://twitter.com/cistacpodcast https://www.canisaythisatchurch.com/ Transcript for today's episode

Get involved with the Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association now, and read their detailed article on this issue facing LPCs and their patients in the state of Michigan.   YOU can help save 300,000+ patients from losing their counselors this year in the State of Michigan. YOU can help save the jobs of over 10,000 LPCs and LLPCs in the State of Michigan. All it takes is a few minutes submitting comments to Michigan's LARA (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs). If you are wanting to do more, please email and call the following addresses ( a sample letter is at the bottom of this page, or review the facts here and come up with your own statement.   Let's be clear, LARA's (Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs) SUDDEN and URGENT move to change the rules that have been established since 1988, is not necessary, there is a House Bill 4325 that would update the 1988 bill and clear up any ambiguity in the language--but LARA is not waiting for that--they have called for a rushed hearing on Oct 4, 2019 to change the rules, which would nullify House Bill 4325 and the ability for LPCs to practice in the state of Michigan. LARA is attempting to push through an artificial restriction that would literally change the scope of practice that LPCs currently have--properly diagnosing and providing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the state of Michigan.   Submit Comments to this Email Address by October 4, 2019: BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov   or come hang out with LPCs for the day: A hearing will be held on these proposed Rules on October 4, 2019 at 9 am at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium, 525 W. Ottawa Street, Lansing, MI 48893. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE PRESENT TO TESTIFY AGAINST THESE RULES!!! Click here for a document on Action Steps LPCs and their Allies can take (lots of great details!!!)   A few points we would like to make clear: If LARA's proposed rules go into effect before HB 4325 is signed by the governor, then LLPCs and LPCs will not be able to diagnose or use counseling techniques - it will be illegal for LLPCs and LPCs to diagnose and use counseling techniques.   This means LLPCs and LPCs will not be able to bill under someone else (as has been done in the past) because you will not be able to use counseling techniques (conduct mental health therapy).   If the legislature passes HB 4325 into law after LARA's proposed rules take effect it will nullify the rules.   If HB 4325 is signed by the governor (before LARA's proposed rules go into effect), then law will clearly define our scope of practice among other things (supervision, etc.), and LLPCs and LPCs will be able to practice mental health therapy in the same way they have for decades (since 1989). Passing HB 4325 will negate the need for LARA's rules.   Our focus now and over the coming weeks must be to influence legislators to move HB 4325 quickly to Governor Whitmer. Please be thoughtful/diplomatic about what you write on public sites. Stay focused on the goal of contacting legislators.   If at all possible, attend and speak at the public hearing on LARA's proposed rules on October 4th. This is imperative. We want a large volume of testimony on record. IF IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO BE PRESENT, PLEASE SEND WRITTEN TESTIMONY. Written comments must be submitted by 5:00 pm on October 4th to the following email: BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov   Tell the Board of Professional Licensing how this will hurt your clients, and the financial/career crisis this will cause you and your business or the business you work for. The hearing is being held at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium, 525 W. Ottawa St., Lansing, MI 48893 and starts at 9am.   Please join MMHCA - your memberships fund the essential lobbyist we have employed to help move HB 4325 through the system. MMHCA is the only organization funding a government relations professional who is working on HB 4325. Go to our mobile friendly website to donate and/or join. www.mmhca.org .   Use this living excel document to easily access legislators' contact information and action steps all in one place. Tremendous thanks to Benjamin Reisterer for creating and maintaining it. https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fkuYQciUwYXhj32iaK1e_75dFTxwYv1M2N8D8XssvAM/edit?usp=drivesdk&fbclid=IwAR1FCcxgdSz8XFOqJa4az0Lsuw837kPIBOas3i_U1wIibLzl3IJ0iI8bCUY   Read MMHCA's September newsletter for more information and to access important documents via links.   Many people still don't know about this dire situation. OUR ABILITY TO PRACTICE OUR PROFESSION IS AT STAKE! Tell every graduate student, LLPC and LPC you know about this information asap. Have them sign up to receive MMHCA emails like this one (go to mmhca.org/articles/and at the bottom of the September newsletter is a button to sign up to be on the mailing list).   Dr. Sara Sue Schaefer will be presenting on October 1, 2019, at the Kalamazoo YWCA in their lower multi-purpose room. This is a very important meeting to attend from 7:00pm to 8:30pm. The presentation will also be live streamed on the Facebook group Michigan LPCs for HB 4325 & Against LARA SOP Changes - Counselors & Allies.      Dr. Sara Sue Schaefer has been instrumental in working on this issue for many years.     She will be presenting about what we can say and do at the hearing on October 4th to further our cause. The YWCA is located at 353 East Michigan in Kalamazoo. 10.MMHCA has a Facebook page you can follow as well. It's called Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association. 11.Please do the following (use the excel document link in #6 for contact information): Continue contacting Governor Whitmer and encourage support of HB 4325.   The Ways and Means committee meets about HB 4325 on Wednesday, 10/2/19. Contact the committee members about how urgent it is to pass the bill out of committee asap so it can move to the House of Representatives for a vote.   Contact Senate Majority leader Mike Shirkey via phone and email to respectfully request that he support HB 4325 and bring it to the Senate for a full vote as quickly as possible once the bill gets to the senate. Explain that HB 4325 does NOT expand LPCs' scope of practice, it only solidifies what we have already done for over three decades.   Contact the Speaker of the House Representative Lee Chatfield and urge him to put the bill up for a vote WITHOUT AMENDMENTS as soon as possible.   Keep the language simple when contacting legislators e.g. "HB 4325 puts into law what has been the practice for 30 years." Educate the senators about the current situation.   Letters to the editor and news coverage are great and noticed by legislators.   Remember - all the contact information you need is in the excel document here:   https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1fkuYQciUwYXhj32iaK1e_75dFTxwYv1M2N8D8XssvAM/edit?usp=drivesdk&fbclid=IwAR1FCcxgdSz8XFOqJa4az0Lsuw837kPIBOas3i_U1wIibLzl3IJ0iI8bCUY Keep up the outstanding advocacy for our license, our colleagues and our clients. It is an honor to be side by side with you in this effort.   James Blundo MMHCA Executive Director Napoleon Harrington MMHCA President MMHCA Public Policy Committee Acuitas LLC, the MMHCA Retained Lobbyist DONATE TO MMHCA   Next MMHCA Board Meeting MMHCA Members are invited to attend the next MMHCA Board meeting on Friday, October 18th, at 10:00 am. Location is Ashland Theological Seminary in Southfield. Guest speaker includes Andrea Cascarilla from Acuitas LLC. Must RSVP to attend, contact jamesblundo@att.net.   Frequently Asked Questions: HB 4325 and LARA's Proposed Counseling Rule Changes by MMHCA Retained Lobbyist Andrea Cascarilla Legislative Director What rules changes is LARA proposing? The actual text of LARA's proposed rule changes may be found here. To be clear, some of the proposed rule changes are not contentious and make necessary and appropriate updates. Others related to R338.1751 and R338.1757 are a cause for serious concern. First, LARA is recommending the repeal of virtually all the rules that define a licensed professional counselor's scope of practice under R338.1751. These are the current rules that have been recognized as part of a counselor's scope since they were first promulgated after the passage of the Licensed Professional Counselor statute in 1988. Instead the department insists these definitions should apply only to the educational preparation of counselors and not to counseling practice. Second, LARA is also pursuing the repeal of the rules identifying the requirements for providing counseling supervision (R338.1757), one of which is specific training in supervision. This training is a national standard for professional counseling. What would the impact of these changes be? R338.1751: Included in the repeal of the definitions in the rule is the practice of "counseling techniques" and the related ability to "diagnose and identify the problem". Without these and numerous other definitions, the counseling scope of practice will be severely restricted. These changes in scope also put Michigan's LPCs in violation of the American Counseling Association's Code of Ethics (E.5.a. Proper Diagnosis), which requires the proper diagnosis of a client's mental disorder before treatment and could subject them to permanent expulsion from the profession. Under Michigan's public health code, LPC's are legally required to comply with their professional code of ethics. They will be violation of this statute. Ultimately, these rule changes will prohibit Michigan's 10,000 licensed professional counselors from continuing to practice in the state and leave hundreds of thousands of residents without the treatment they need. Additionally, insurance companies will no longer cover services of LPCs as a diagnosis is required for reimbursement. R338.1757: If this rule regarding counseling supervision requirements is rescinded, counselors who provide supervision without training would be practicing in violation of the ACA's Code of Ethics (F.2.a Supervisor Preparation). Furthermore, LPCs who received their supervision in Michigan may not be eligible for licensure in other states because their supervisor would not be qualified in the state to which the counselor is moving. Why is LARA proposing these changes? The Attorney General's office raised concerns a few years ago as to whether the counseling rules were properly aligned with the counseling statute, questioning whether the rules exceed the statute. Since LARA only has the authority to promulgate rules, not change statute, they have proceeded with the only option available to resolve this concern: repeal the rules in question. What is the status of the proposed rule changes? Despite the unanimous objections by the Board of Counseling, on July 18, 2019, LARA filed a formal request for rule making and submitted its draft rules. The associated Regulatory Impact Statement for the proposed rule changes was filed on August 28, 2019. This action triggered the setting of the required public hearing, which is scheduled for Friday, October 4 at 9:00 am at the G. Mennen Williams Building Auditorium located at 525 W. Ottawa Street in Lansing, Michigan. After this public hearing, the rules can be certified, and a report submitted to the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules (JCAR). JCAR, a legislative body, has just 15 session days to review the rules. Their only course of action if they object is to introduce legislation within another 15 days to repeal them. After the JCAR review is completed, the LARA Director can adopt the rules. When would the proposed rules take effect? The rules changes were written with immediate effect. Given the above timeline these proposed rule changes could be in effect as early as November of this year immediately rendering Michigan's 10,000 licensed professional counselors unable to diagnose and, therefore, unable to legally practice in our state. What can be done to oppose the proposed rule changes? Any member of the public may comment in opposition of the proposed rules changes at the October 4th hearing. Written comments may also be submitted electronically any time before 5:00 pm on October 4th to BPL-BoardSupport@Michigan.gov   What organizations are opposing the proposed rule changes? The following are some of the organizations that have expressed opposition to LARA's proposed rule changes: MMHCA (Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association) CMHAM (Community Mental Health Association of Michigan) MHA (Michigan Hospital Association) MPCA (MI Primary Care Association) MATCP (MI Association of Treatment Court Professionals) MPFFA (MI Professional Fire Fighters Association) ACA (American Counseling Association) MCA (Michigan Counseling Association) NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) MASW (MI Association of Social Workers) MSCA (Middle School Counselors Association) Central Michigan University Eastern Michigan University Oakland University Spring Arbor University University of Detroit-Mercy Wayne State University Western Michigan University Hope Network Pine Rest MI AFSCME Oakland County How do the proposed rule changes relate to HB 4325? The proposed rules are the administrative response to the Attorney General's question as to whether the rules align with the statute. HB 4325 is the legislative response. What does HB 4325 do? HB 4325, sponsored by Rep. Aaron Miller (R-Sturgis), would codify into statute the existing rules that have come into question instead of repealing them. This preferred solution allows counselors to maintain their ability to properly diagnose and treat individuals with mental and emotional disorders. The bill also makes a number of technical updates to the 30+ year old law. Does HB 4325 change the scope of practice for licensed professional counselors? No. It maintains the scope of practice that has been in placed since the Licensed Professional Counselor law was passed in 1988. Does HB 4325 change who is eligible to be licensed as a professional counselor? No. It maintains that only those with the education and training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders and meet the standards of the Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) are eligible for licensure. What is the status of HB 4325? HB 4325 (S-3) was passed unanimously out of the House Health Policy Committee on September 19, 2019. The bill has been referred to the House Ways and Means Committee. A hearing and vote is expected on October 2. The bill will then be sent to the full House of Representatives for a vote. How would the passage of HB 4325 affect the proposed rules? HB 4325 negates altogether the need for LARA's proposed rule by resolving the Attorney General's question. It would nullify the proposed rules if they were to go into effect. Who is supporting HB 4325? To date the following organizations have formally taking a position supporting HB 4325, and many more are expected to as future opportunities in the legislative process allow: MMHCA (Michigan Mental Health Counselors Association) MPCA (MI Primary Care Association) MATCP (MI Association of Treatment Court Professionals) NBCC (National Board for Certified Counselors) MASW (MI Association of Social Workers) MSCA (Middle School Counselors Association) Central Michigan University Eastern Michigan University Oakland University Spring Arbor University University of Detroit-Mercy Wayne State University Western Michigan University Hope Network A few related other facts: Our nation is facing a mental health crisis and there simply aren't enough counselors and other mental health professionals to meet the burgeoning demand for services, according to a recent analysis by the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA). HRSA estimates nationally we need to add 10,000 providers in each of seven separate mental healthcare professions by 2025 to meet the expected growth in demand. In Michigan there are nearly 1.4 million adults with mental illness and 67,000 youth suffering from a major depressive episode. The majority of these individuals are not receiving the care they need. Costs are the reason nearly half of the adults are not receiving the treatment they need. Mental health counselors are uniquely qualified to meet the challenges of providing high quality care in a cost-effective manner.     If you want to help beyond the initial email   Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's Office: Phone: (517) 335-7858 You can share your opinion with Governor here:  https://somgovweb.state.mi.us/GovRelations/ShareOpinion.aspx Speaker of the House, Lee Chatfield's Office: Phone: (517) 373-2629 Email: LeeChatfield@house.mi.gov Senate Majority Leader, Mike Shirkey: Phone: (517) 373-5932 Email Contact Form: https://www.senatormikeshirkey.com/contact/   To find your state rep by your address: http://house.michigan.gov/mhrpublic/frmFindaRep.aspx   To find your state senator by your address: http://www.senate.mi.gov/fysbyaddress.html   A sample letter--but feel free to write from the heart:   The work of counselors is imperative in the socioeconomic health of the State of Michigan, and compromising an entire profession's ability to do the work they have been doing for decades is not only absurd but will render profound economic ramifications.    There is an excellent bill waiting to pass to make sure the LPC scope of practice is solidified. It is called House Bill 4325 (proposed substitute H-3). We urge LARA and the Governmental Authorities of Michigan to focus on passing House Bill 4325 before attempting to cut an entire industry off at the knees.    Highlighted points:  1. Michigan already has a shortage of mental health professionals. 2. We are in the middle of a suicide epidemic, opioid epidemic, and teen depression is at an all-time high. We need LPCs practicing independently as they have since 1988. 3. Over 10,000 LPC Counselors will not be able to practice if this passes. 4. These LPC Counselors will lose their private practices, and their financial life is at risk, as well as their dependents and support staff. 5. This proposed rule change is wrong for the people of Michigan.   Another Detailed Article here: https://www.practicesol.com/single-post/fightforlpc Related News Stories:   https://www.9and10news.com/2019/09/19/northern-michigan-lpcs-worried-about-proposed-changes-by-lara/   https://wwmt.com/news/local/michigan-counselors-worried-over-new-proposed-industry-rules    https://www.woodtv.com/news/michigan/proposed-rule-change-could-hurt-mental-health-workers/   https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/10000-counselors-and-150000-clients-with-mental-health-issues-could-be-impacted-by-new-proposal   "West Michigan Live w/ Justin Barclay." Interviews LPC Benjamin Reisterer about HB4325 as well as LARA's proposed rule changes, starts at 22:53 mark of this radio show.      Michigan Department Of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. EST Phone: 517-335-9700      

I (Matt L) have been wrestling with the topic of violence in Scripture for a while, and has returned to Dan Hawk's Berit Olam commentary on the book of Joshua. It was a pleasure to talk with Dan about his new book on violence in the Bible. He takes a literary approach that deserves serious attention. The post Daniel Hawk – The Violence of the Biblical God first appeared on OnScript.

I (Matt L) have been wrestling with the topic of violence in Scripture for a while, and has returned to Dan Hawk's Berit Olam commentary on the book of Joshua. It was a pleasure to talk with Dan about his new book on violence in the Bible. He takes a literary approach that deserves serious attention.

In this episode, I had the honor of interviewing: Bishop Carol Vaccariello who follows a Braided Way. In addition to being an Independent Catholic bishop, she is also ordained in the United Church of Christ and Christian Church – Disciples of Christ as well as a Creation Spirituality Elder. She is the founding Bishop of Ordo Hagia Sophia or Order of Holy Wisdom. Carol holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit, Michigan.  A Master of Divinity degree from Ashland Theological Seminary in Ashland, Ohio.  And also has a Master of Business Administration from Baldwin- Wallace College, in Berea Ohio. Carol is a ritual artist, produced and directed Cosmic Masses; she co-directed the Doctor of Ministry program at the University of Creation Spirituality; she mentored the design of the first Creation Spirituality ordination program. Carol is an inspirational speaker, storyteller, sacred chanter, healer, spiritual director, retreat facilitator, Zen Still Point practitioner, and plant whisperer. In this episode, we talk about several things including: Her elevator speech. She once wrote, “Creation Spirituality is the foundation for my spiritual life.” She elaborates on what she means by that statement. She talks about her spiritual path as a braided way and talks about what she means by “braided way.” She describes her experience at the Basilica of the Black Madonna, in Sicily. She talks about the Order of Holy Wisdom. What it is and her involvement in the order and how is it unique. She talks about her greatest challenge within ministry. And finally, she talks about her greatest blessing within ministry. Links: Braided Way Magazine. Learn more about Carol. Learn even more about Carol. Carol's personal website. What is the Cosmic Mass? The TCM Experience. The Black Madonna of Tindari, Sicily. Carol Vaccariello as a Spiritual Director. This episode is sponsored in part by Convergent Streams: The Premier ISM Magazine, why?  Because I read it, and I love it and think you will love it too.  If you haven’t checked out Convergent Streams, I encourage you to do so.   This podcast is produced by the Community of Saint George a jurisdiction within The Young Rite.  

“As soon as I say: When another person changes, then I can finally be Ok, I just farmed out my well being into some else's life.” - Steve Rieske, pastor and counselor. How often do we do that? Put our well-being into someone else's hands? Bank our ability to be OK on someone else changing? All. The. Time. So what do we do with this thinking, with forgiveness, with reconciliation, with all the relationship exchanges? We brought on our dear friend Steve Rieske to talk all about this topic. And we all need it. You know what else you need? To laugh about what kind of pool you might want to jump in if it was filled with something besides water. Like mayo. You never know what kind of laughing and learning you'll come across under The Big Top but we think you'll love it!In the fall of 2019, Steve became the full-time Lead Teaching Pastor at Brookside Church and he has been involved with Brookside since its creation, serving in multiple roles including as an Elder. In addition to serving Brookside, Steve served with the college ministry CRU since 1999. Steve holds an undergraduate degree from Ohio University and in 2014 received his Masters of Arts and Clinical Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary. Steve and his wife Sandy were married in 1997 and have three children (Narnia, Danny, and Jack).

“ Join us this week as we talk to Efrem Smith on racial reconciliation and the role we have in it. This is a crucial conversation to have and we hope it challenges you to ask yourself what you are doing to bring about reconciliation where you are. rn Pastor Efrem Smith is an internationally recognized leader who uses motivational speaking and preaching to equip people for a life of transformation. He consults on issues of multi-ethnicity, leadership and community development. Pastor Smith is the former- president and CEO of World Impact, an urban mission, church planting and leadership-development organization. He is the current co-lead Pastor of Bayside Church, Midtown. Heu2019s the author of several books, including his latest, u201cKilling Us Softly.u201d Pastor Smith is a graduate of Saint John’s University and Luther Theological Seminary.u00a0He received an honorary doctor of ministry degree from Ashland Theological Seminary. Heu2019s currently a doctoral student in Church Leadership at Fuller Seminary. “

Thursday (11/8) at 645AM in the dining room, Clark Miller from Man In The Mirror was our speaker. https://maninthemirror.org/ Clark was born in Silver Spring, MD and since 2012 serves as Area Director of the Miami Valley Coalition for Men’s Discipleship and as Regional Director since July, 2015. Clark holds a D.Min. (thesis: Developing a Discipleship Model for the Revitalization of the Local Church) and M.Div degrees from Ashland Theological Seminary. For over 47 years, he has been all about discipleship. He currently lives in Tipp City, Ohio with his wife Kim; Often finding them traveling to Atlanta or Iowa City to visit their three children and eight grandchildren, sometimes in their V6 powered MGB.

Chad Frey is at the bleeding edge of the Maker Movement. Chad shares how entrepreneurs and makers are changing education through S.T.E.M. and S.T.E.A.M. By bringing the maker movement directly into schools we are able to shape the next generation of innovators and influencers to think outside the box and bring new solutions to the problems they face.  In today's episode Chad and I also discuss education, co-working, makerspaces, diversity, the social responsibility of entrepreneurs, the importance of the arts, a maker manifesto, finding the right vocation, having informed conversations, and much more.Chad Frey is the President and Founder of Partnership Planners, LLC, a consulting & software development company that specializes in community engagement, social innovation, and entrepreneurship. Out of Planners, Chad started the Foundry Makerspace as a social enterprise initiative to build the capacity of schools for 21st Century life and work. As president, Chad leads a professional learning community of Maker Fellows and has other responsibilities that range from consulting on international documentary film projects to giving oversight to software accounts that engage thousands of users in community engagement. Chad also serves at the Community Engagement Liaison at Messiah College where he advises senior administration on strategic community engagement programs and partnerships. He has several years of teaching experience in course topics that span topics like service, missions and social change. For over a decade, Chad has facilitated international service-learning experiences in N. Ireland. He previously served as the Director of the Agape Center for Curricular Service-Learning and has received national recognition by the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Programs, U.S. Department of Education and Corporation for National Community Service (CNCS) for a variety of community engagement initiatives that implemented collective impact principals for K-12 student achievement. Chad has managed numerous grants including a $2,000,000.00 P.T.E.V. grant from the Lilly Endowment.Chad received his B.A. from Messiah College in Biblical Religious Studies where he majored in Christian Education. He earned a M.A. in Higher Education from Geneva College with a concentration in religion and philosophy. Chad has also completed several seminary courses at Ashland Theological Seminary as well as his comprehensive exams in pursuit of an Ed.D. of Adult Education at Penn State University. He currently volunteers on several boards and committees. Chad was born in Lancaster County but currently lives in downtown Harrisburg, PA. Interview Segments - This is where you can find each section of the interview.An Intro to Chad: 0:46 minutesGoing Deeper into the Topics: 20:23 minutesRapid Rire Questions: 51:50 minutesFoundry Makerspace:  https://www.foundrymakerspace.com/Maker Shift / Maker Manifesto: https://www.makershift.io/Twitter: @FoundryMkrspaceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThefoundrymakerspaceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/foundrymakerspace/

I was blessed with the opportunity to facilitate a digital ministry workshop at Ashland Theological Seminary-Detroit, where I earned my Master of Divinity. This is the audio from that workshop. http://yourdigitalpastor.co

Traditional leadership training is difficult to implement because it’s tough to access that seven-step conflict resolution process in the middle of a team meltdown! Today’s guest is a leadership coach with a different approach. She is on a mission to develop leaders who view management as a collaborative process, who share their vision and then walk alongside their team members on the way to realizing big picture goals.   Judy Lair started out on the ‘other side of the couch.’ As a client, she recognized that her counselor was employing the strategic thinking skills that she considered a personal strength. She applied to graduate school and earned her Master’s from Ashland Theological Seminary in 2002. For the past 15 years, Judy has operated a successful private practice, Counselorplace Christian Counseling, in Worthington, Ohio.   In June 2016, Judy expanded her business to include leadership coaching. She leverages her accreditations as both a Certified Business Coach and Certified Life Coach to help clients become insightful, inspiring leaders and effective problem-solvers. She offers 1:1 personal leadership coaching as well as Masterclass Leadership Development group coaching workshops. Judy is the author of four books, and today she shares advice about writing as well as business ownership. Listen to understand why Judy chose private practice, how she determined her ideal clients, and how her business grew to include leadership coaching.   Key Takeaways How Judy made the decision to start her own business Avoid 60/40 or 70/30 split Background as paralegal, office manager   Judy’s strategies for landing the first few clients Networking Written material Seminars   How to approach networking Don’t view as ‘sales’ Share your investment in what you love Showcase how you can be of service   How Judy determined her ideal clients Strength as strategic thinker Ability to understand thought process, barriers Counseling niche in anxiety disorder Coaching niche in examining how leaders think, sharing expanded view   How Judy got into coaching Counseling clients in leadership positions discussed work in sessions Asked Judy to branch out, talk to their teams   The difference in marketing strategy for counseling vs. coaching Counseling clients know they have a problem Must identify pain points of potential coaching clients and communicate benefits based on where they’re at now   Judy’s ground-breaking approach to leadership development Traditional framework teaches skills (i.e.: conflict resolution) that are difficult to access when needed Judy seeks to develop innovative thinking and apply organically   The secret to team management View as collaborative process See team members as people rather than skill sets Align team members’ individual goals with vision for group   Judy’s writing advice Give yourself a daily word count, time parameters (e.g.: 2,000 words in two hours/day) Push past limiting beliefs Do not hit backspace or delete   Resources Judy’s Amazon Author Page Free Viewpoint Leadership mp3s Free Phone Consultation Connect with Judy Lair Website LinkedIn Twitter Facebook

In this episode we're back with part two of my conversation with special guest, Dr. Terry Wardle. [su_button url="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/our-daily-rest/id1209722194" target="blank" style="flat" background="#717c6b" size="6" radius="0"]Subscribe on iTunes[/su_button] [su_button url="/renewing-library-signup/" target="blank" style="flat" background="#717c6b" size="6" radius="0"]Subscribe by Email[/su_button]   We learn:  We'll learn why awareness and attention are key components to living in the present. How our brain shifts gears when we've experienced something a few times The important first step to begin living in the present moment How the simple act of eating an orange can help you practice being in the presence of God. Dr. Terry Wardle is Professor of Practical Theology at Ashland Theological Seminary, founding President of Healing Care Ministries, and President Emeritus of HCM International’s Board of Directors. He is a frequent seminar and conference speaker, and the author of numerous books on spiritual formation and formational prayer. He has been married to Cheryl for more than 42 years, has three grown children and five grandchildren. Links From This Episode Terry's book Every Breath We Take, Living in the Presence, Love, and Generosity of God is available on Amazon. Terry shares more about living in the present moment on episode 6 & episode 7 of his podcast, Slingstones. Listen and subscribe, you will enjoy it immensely. This Episode is Brought to You By _ Audible _ For listeners of the Our Daily Rest podcast, Audible is offering a FREE audiobook download along with a free 30-day trial of their service. They have a selection of more than 180,000 titles to choose from. To learn more and download your free audio book visit audibletrial.com/ODR. _ Red Oak Collective _ This episode is also brought to you by the Red Oak Collective shop. A collection of goods designed to be encouragement for your soul. You can learn more here. Be sure to use code  ODR5OFF for $5 off your first order of $25 or more. How to Listen to the Podcast Here's a short guide on how to easily listen to the podcast each week or how to leave a review on iTunes (very much appreciated!).

H O W  T O  N E I G H B O R What if we don't have to travel far to get close to people who are distant from God? A long time ago a faith leader asked Jesus a question and Jesus answered with a story.  In week three we unpack the Great Commission.  The simple command: Go!  We welcome Dr. William Payne, Professor of Evangelism and World Missions at Ashland Theological Seminary to offer his insight on how to make this command of Jesus a reality.     Click here for Message Notes

What do we miss when we're focused on the past or on the future instead of the present moment we've been given? It's something we probably have all thought about. How to be present. How to enjoy each moment. We dive into why the present moment is so important and how to begin to cultivate it with special guest, Dr. Terry Wardle. [su_button url="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/our-daily-rest/id1209722194" target="blank" style="flat" background="#717c6b" size="6" radius="0"]Subscribe on iTunes[/su_button] [su_button url="/renewing-library-signup/" target="blank" style="flat" background="#717c6b" size="6" radius="0"]Subscribe by Email[/su_button]     We also learn: Why the present moment is truly a gift and what we lose when we are pulled to the past or future What Jesus was talking about when he told Martha that "Mary has chosen what is better" at the end of the Gospel of Luke 10. Dr. Terry Wardle is Professor of Practical Theology at Ashland Theological Seminary, founding President of Healing Care Ministries, and President Emeritus of HCM International’s Board of Directors. He is a frequent seminar and conference speaker, and the author of numerous books on spiritual formation and formational prayer. He has been married to Cheryl for more than 42 years, has three grown children and five grandchildren. Links From This Episode "Beware the barrenness of a busy life." - Socrates Terry's book Every Breath We Take, Living in the Presence, Love, and Generosity of God is available on Amazon. Terry shares more about living in the present moment on episode 6 & episode 7 of his podcast, Slingstones. Listen and subscribe, you will enjoy it immensely. This Episode is Brought to You By _ Audible _ For listeners of the Our Daily Rest podcast, Audible is offering a FREE audiobook download along with a free 30-day trial of their service. They have a selection of more than 180,000 titles to choose from. To learn more and download your free audio book visit audibletrial.com/ODR. _ Red Oak Collective _ This episode is also brought to you by the Red Oak Collective shop. A collection of goods designed to be encouragement for your soul. You can learn more here. Be sure to use code  ODR5OFF for $5 off your first order of $25 or more. How to Listen to the Podcast Here's a short guide on how to easily listen to the podcast each week or how to leave a review on iTunes (very much appreciated!).

During the recent annual meetings for biblical studies scholars held in San Antonio, Dr. Heiser interviewed a number of scholars about their recent work. In Part 6 of those interviews, we chat with Stephen Huebscher (PhD candidate at Clarks Summit University), David DeSilva (New Testament professor at Ashland Theological Seminary), and Dr. Craig Keener (New […]

Rev. Dr. Charles H. Kraft is an American anthropologist and linguist whose work since the early 1980s has focused on inner healing and spiritual warfare. He is the Sun-Hee Kwak Professor of Anthropology and Intercultural Communication in the School of Intercultural Studies, Fuller Theological Seminary in Pasadena, California, teaching primarily in the school's spiritual dynamics concentration. He joined Fuller's faculty in 1969. In the 1950s he served as a Brethren missionary in northern Nigeria. He has been a professor of African languages at Michigan State University and UCLA, and taught anthropology part-time at Biola University. He holds a BA from Wheaton College, a BD from Ashland Theological Seminary, and a PhD from the Hartford Seminary Foundation.

Michael has nearly two decades of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings, including as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, Clinical Director, Children's Pastor, Camp Counselor and speaker.   After serving as a Children's pastor, he went on to obtain his Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Ashland Theological Seminary.  Following seminary, Michael worked at The Buckeye Ranch in Columbus Ohio as a Multi-Systemic Therapist, working with individuals 12-18 and their families.   Michael founded and leads Gateway Family Services of Illinois, providing trauma focused-equine assisted psychotherapy, Individual & Family Therapy. This team is working with individuals and families across the lifespan who have experienced trauma.  Michael has spent several years working with youth in the foster care system & post-adoption.  Gateway Family Services is also working with the VA Illiana Health Care System to provide services to veterans.  In addition to Gateway Family Services, Michael is currently the Executive Director of Hooves of Hope, a faith based mentoring program.  In This EpisodeMichael's websiteSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-trauma-therapist-podcast-with-guy-macpherson-phd-inspiring-interviews-with-thought-leaders-in-the-field-of-trauma/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands