Podcast appearances and mentions of christian formation

This week's message comes from Pastor Natalie de Haas of Spirit Church NYC. She shares a powerful word about Jesus transforming our lives so we can go out and fulfill the mission He's given us. 

In this episode of the Mutuality Matters podcast from CBE International, hosts Mimi and Charel speak with Dr. Jeannine Brown who discusses the pressing need to interpret the Biblical text of 1 Peter 3:1–7 within its first-century Greco-Roman context. Dr. Brown emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and historical background behind the passages on submission, particularly 1 Peter 3:1–7. She explores how Peter's household codes provide agency to often marginalized groups like wives and slaves, contrary to the hierarchical norms of the time. The conversation underscores the relevance today of recognizing and respecting context while interpreting Biblical texts—an essential factor for both scholars and modern readers.    00:00 Introduction to Mutuality Matters  00:02 Exploring the Context of Submission in 1 Peter  00:49 Welcome and Introductions  01:33 Reading and Analyzing 1 Peter 3:1-7  02:57 Cultural Background and Interpretation  03:37 Household Codes in the Greco-Roman World  07:24 Missional Moments and Divided Households  08:20 Challenges for Christian Wives in the First Century  10:03 Slavery and Moral Agency in 1 Peter  11:28 Understanding Peter's Use of Household Codes  16:50 Modern Interpretations and Misconceptions  27:46 The Role of Headings in Biblical Interpretation  30:15 Instructions for Husbands in 1 Peter 3:7  36:30 Exploring Social and Physical Vulnerability  37:19 Interpreting 'Weaker Vessel' in Context  38:02 Challenging Traditional Views on Gender Roles  40:18 Co-Heirs and Inheritance in Early Christianity  41:50 Family Metaphors in 1 Peter  43:37 Egalitarian Impulses in the New Testament  45:28 Household Codes and Their Implications  50:08 Suffering for Good and Loyalty to Jesus  52:47 Translation Challenges and Responsibilities  58:01 Applying 1 Peter in Modern Contexts  01:04:03 Conclusion and Further Resources    Guest Bio: Dr. Jeannine Brown   Jeannine Brown is professor of New Testament at Bethel Seminary and Program Director of Bethel Seminary's Online programs. Jeannine received in MA from Bethel Seminary, Saint Paul, MN. and her PhD from Luther seminary, Saint Paul, MN. Dr. Brown has taught at Bethel Seminary for over 20 years. She teaches in the areas of New Testament, Greek, hermeneutics, and integration.    Dr. Brown has focused much of her research and writing on the Gospels, hermeneutics, and interdisciplinary integration. In addition to a book on biblical hermeneutics (Scripture as Communication, now in second edition) and two books on integration, she has published three commentaries on Matthew's Gospel and one on Philippians (Tyndale NT series). She is a member of the NIV translation team and is an editor for the NIV Study Bible, revised edition (2020). Her current writing projects include a commentary 1 Peter (NICNT) and book on themes in 1 Peter. Jeannine's other published works include: Scripture as Communication (2021, 2007); The Gospels as Stories (2020); Relational Integration of Psychology and Christian Theology (2018); Becoming Whole and Holy: An Integrative Conversation about Christian Formation (2011); Embedded Genres in the New Testament: Understanding Their Impact for Interpretation and three commentaries on the Gospel of Matthew (2018, 2015, 2012). Jeannine Brown co-edited the second edition of Jesus and the Gospels (2013). She has published numerous journal articles and book essays on the Gospels of Matthew and John, 1 Peter, and topics of hermeneutics. Some of these have been published in Journal of Biblical Literature, New Testament Studies, Catholic Biblical Quarterly, and Horizons in Biblical Theology. Jeannine thoroughly enjoys teaching in churches and ministries on the topics of Bible interpretation and the New Testament. She is married to Tim Brown, singer-songwriter, and has two adult daughters.  Story Notes  Today's podcast focused on 1 Pet 3:1–7. In the NIV it reads:  "Wives, in the same way submit yourselves to your own husbands so that, if any of them do not believe the word, they may be won over without words by the behavior of their wives, when they see the purity and reverence of your lives. Your beauty should not come from outward adornment, such as elaborate hairstyles and the wearing of gold jewelry or fine clothes. Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. For this is the way the holy women of the past who put their hope in God used to adorn themselves. They submitted themselves to their own husbands, like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her lord. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear. Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers."   Exploring the cultural background, Jeannine suggests that Peter is calling Christians to display behaviors that reflect Christ even as male dominance was a given. Jeannine explained that in the first century, Roman interest in well-organized households should mirror a well-organized Rome. Roman citizens were to live harmoniously within a well-organized Roman household. Where the passage makes a surprising move is in the call for husbands to have empathy for their wives with a consequence: that God will hear their prayers. Further Christian wives should view themselves beyond the cultural standard of female beauty. As the passage states: it's not the adorning of women's outer selves but their inner lives of faith in God. Doing right, and with faith that does not give into fear given God is ultimately in control. This passage is countercultural in its emphasis on Christian faith and the development of a peaceful inner life both of which acknowledge God's supremacy versus that of emperor's.     This passage calls both husbands and wives to do what is right: to be brave, to have faith in God who rules over all of Rome's emperors, verse 7, to live within a culture with very differing values that offend Christian moral life. In this passage there is a tension in negotiating life lived in a culture at odds with Christian values, supremely concerning the divinity Jesus, or that of an emperor. While Jesus died on a Roman cross, even so, the passage evokes faith and courage in Christian households. The passage is helpful to missionaries in similar circumstances. How to live with courage and faith, elevating the gospel with behavior more often than words in a culture that exploited slaves and women.     Turning to 1 Peter 3:7 that reads:  "Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives, and treat them with respect as the weaker partner and as heirs with you of the gracious gift of life, so that nothing will hinder your prayers."     The Petrine texts lean into sibling language, especially that of children, which overall is very egalitarian in the cultural context of first century. Further, the language of “father” was not very much present in NT as it was in 1st century non-Christian texts. God's children in Christ were to face each other in humility and this very egalitarian impulse in relating to one another. God is father, but in Christ we're all siblings. Women and men are co-heirs is throughout NT. Leadership structure are notes but not ones in the NT.     The whole Petrine text is a significant challenge to the top-down rule from emperor as God down throughout the household structure which was central. Given what Peter is doing with family metaphors—of believers as children / siblings who are to love earnestly as family love each other, and as the elders are a group too much have wisdom but must lead by example. These impulses, leader on top, and wife below: this does simplify decisions, but this is not the texture of Peter. As he thinks of his context, and the household code, it is not a prescription but a triage—a pathway for healing top-down leadership. It's what Christians do in an emergency. Emergency advice to the Christian community so it can survive. It's about survival for the most vulnerable. The thrust of text is a call to attentiveness to the most vulnerable. In light of Tom Holland's book—Dominion: How the Christian Revolution Remade the World—in brutal detail reveals the cruelty of Rome. In thinking of our next, the advice is that even if you suffer for doing good, you are blessed. And take comfort in that truth and knowledge that even those who slanders you, remain loyal to Christ, if you suffer as Jesus did, you will also share in his glory.  In fascinating detail, Jeannine describes the history of Bible translation and the canonical review that follows. For the NIV team, on which she contributes, their voting policy requires a 75% majority in approving translation choices. Thus, the team must make a compelling case to change something, so for 1 Peter, and the NT generally, it's always wise to examine and read many translations to see differences.     In considering the backdrop in which the text arises, submission is not a new requirement. What is new for this culture is to ask that all behavior must be Christ-like. While believers are clearly frightened by opposition to Christian faith, the text calls them to act in ways that others will recognize their soul-allegiance to Christ. Win others over to Christ not out of fear but confident behavior that imitates Christ's live. Jeannine recommends entering the text with a disciplined imagination that brings implications of texts to life then and now. Idolatry is key issue underlining the concerns in this text which encourages faith and living life not with words but by example.   Jeannine points listeners to the following resources:  Nijay Gupta's book, Tell Her Story: How Women Led, Taught and Ministered in the Early Church.   Listen to Jeannine Brown's Hayward Lectures at Acadia Divinity College  Jeannie will resume this conversation in subsequent episodes of Women and Worlds: Exploring the Difficult Passages.    Disclaimer  The opinions expressed in CBE's Mutuality Matters' podcast are those of its hosts or guests and 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. 

In this episode, we invite Dr. Gregory Lanier to discuss the New Perspectives on Paul (NPP)—what the view is, its historical context, and its implications for understanding the book of Galatians.What are the New Perspectives on Paul? Should Christians today be open to a fresh look at Paul's theology, specifically around "justification"? What are the dangers of this belief system? And how does all of that impact a church's study through the book of Galatians?Join us as we discuss the NPP together.TakeawaysThe New Perspective on Paul challenges traditional views on how "justification" is defined, and Galatians serves as a critical text for these debates.Key figures like N.T. Wright have significantly influenced modern scholarship of the NPP.Pastoral implications arise from how we interpret justification and community.A balanced view of the gospel includes both personal and communal aspects.Connect With Us providenceomaha.org | Instagram | Facebook Email Us formation@providenceomaha.org

In less than a year, God has worked in transformative ways in the lives of Brittany and Alex Robles. In this Q&A, they sit down with Pastors Krista and Ricky Ortiz to share their journey of faith and transformation.

This edition of Summer Mixtape is a special message about overcoming some of life's biggest mistakes by Johnathon Brooks. 

This edition of our Summer Mixtape series features an incredible word about surrendering to God's will and trusting His timing from Andrea Wurzburger.

Tune in this week as we hear an incredible word from Nicole Gallant about the conditions of our hearts and God's work.

Send us a textFor queer youth, belonging isn't a luxury, it's a lifeline. In a world that too often tells them they don't fit, affirming spaces can be the difference between surviving and thriving. The power of belonging becomes both healing and revolutionary. Today In the Den,we're diving into this topic, exploring the life-saving power of queer-led youth spaces that help foster that sense of belonging. Sara talks with two incredible guests who are working to create just such a space, the Rev. Dr. John Leedy, the Executive Director of Kindom Community, and Andy Hackett, Program Director. Special Guest: Rev. Dr. John LeedyJohn Leedy (he/him) is a Presbyterian pastor and has a bi-vocational calling, serving as both the Executive Director of kin•dom community and the Associate Pastor of Hope Church in Austin, TX. He holds a B.A. in Youth & Family Ministry from Abilene Christian University, an MDiv. from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry degree in Christian Formation and Liturgical Theology also from APTS. He is a Benedictine Oblate of St. Meinrad Archabbey, has a long history of camp & conference work, and lives in Austin with his wife and pastoral colleague, Rev. Dr. Krystal Leedy, along with their two daughters. John came on staff as a camp counselor at the first ever kin•dom camp in Texas and knew immediately that this work would not only change his life, but would change the lives of countless other LGBTQIA+ young people who are in need of brave spaces marked by love, inclusion, care, and celebration. Special Guest: Andy HackettAndy Hackett (he/him) holds a BS in Child Development with a minor in Political Science from Texas Woman's University. He is also certified Lifeguard/First Aid/CPR instructor and Level 1 challenge course practitioner. He lives and works full time at a Camp and Conference Center in East Texas with his dog, Baxter. Andy grew up attending a specialty camp for children with celiac disease, and after coming out as transgender, he thought "We need a camp like this for LGBTQ+ kids"- and kin•dom camp was born! He develops programs and activities that happen at camp, helps us find and train the amazing individuals that join our summer staff, and is the face behind emails reminding you to register for camp! Links from the Show: Kindom Camp: https://kindomcommunity.org/campQueer Camp Directory: https://directory.queercampfair.com/Gluten-Free Cookbook: https://theloopywhisk.com/ Join Mama Dragons today: www.mamadragons.comIn the Den is made possible by generous donors like you. Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today at www.mamadragons.org.  Support the showConnect with Mama Dragons:WebsiteInstagramFacebookDonate to this podcast

Should Christians be teachable, and how can we discipline desire, that's what we are talking about today, and stories learning to attach more deeply with God. In this episode of the Attaching to God podcast, host Geoff Holsclaw welcomes Dr. A.J. Swoboda to discuss the virtue of having a teachable spirit. The conversation explores the challenges of remaining teachable in a culture that often discourages vulnerability and humility.Dr. A. J. Swoboda is a professor, writer, and pastor. He is the Associate Professor of Bible, theology, and world Christianity at Bushnell University and leads the Doctorate program in Christian Formation and Soul Care at Friends University. He is the author of many books, recently The Gift of Thorns: Jesus, the Flesh, and the War for Our Wants and A Teachable Spirit: The Virtue of Learning from Strangers, Enemies, and Absolutely Anyone.Dive deeper in our new book, Landscapes of the Soul: How the Science and Spirituality of Attachment Can Move You into Confident Faith, Courage, and Connection, and learn about our trainings and other resources at embodiedfaith.life.Stay Connected: Check out our Attaching to God 6-Week Learning Cohort. Join the Embodied Faith community to stay connected and get posts, episodes, & resources. Support the podcast with a one-time or regular gift (to keep this ad-free without breaking the Holsclaw's bank).

In this candid panel conversation, Pastor Ricky Ortiz talks with Meta Church members Gus, Sky, Cynthia, and Lilly about their respective faith journeys and what it's looked like for each of them as they've tried to find their way back to God. As you listen, you'll find yourself refreshed by their honesty and relieved to know that no matter where you are on your own journey, God desires to meet you there and walk forward with you!

Week 1 of our Summer Mixtape series kicks off with Pastor Karel de Haas sharing a word about how to stay on fire in the Spirit!

Stan Wilson, Minister of Christian Formation

Recorded on 3 July 2025 for ICMDA Webinars.Dr David Randall chairs a webinar with Dr Emil ShehadehDiscipling is a word which can cause confusion. Does it precede, or succeed conversion? My presentation will imply the term as meaning a post-conversion teaching. Others call this process “Christian Formation.”How do we help Muslims once they become Christian? Do we need to use a different approach for Muslim-background Christians, or place different emphases on certain areas of discipleship? If so, how and what? I will try and answer these questions in my presentation entitled, discipling Muslim background believers.Emil Shehadeh was born in Israel and educated mainly in the UK, achieving BSc Hons (Medical Biology), MSc (Biochemistry), MB ChB (Medicine), and a Diploma in Dermatology and MRCGP. Growing up in Israel, he accompanied his parents all over Galilee, spreading the Gospel amongst all communities including Muslims. He also worked with Child Evangelism Fellowship and OM. In the early 1990s, he co-founded an Arabic Church in Cardiff, S Wales. He practiced as a GP (Family Physician and a trainer) until 2016. Upon retirement, he dedicated his time to writing and speaking on the subject of Islam and evangelising Muslims. He supports evangelistic work amongst Muslims in North Africa and Nigeria. Emil has a PhD in Islamic Studies from Logos University and is engaged in another piece of research at LST, Northwood, on the Causes and Consequences of Muslim Conversions to Christianity. He believes that the expansion of the Kingdom of God must be the chief concern of the people of God.⁠⁠⁠⁠To listen live to future ICMDA webinars visit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://icmda.net/resources/webinars/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this final message from our Daddy Issues series, we explore the Father's forgiveness and grace for His children. 

God the Father is a Defender of all His children. Text the word DEFENDER to 332-334-7729 to receive a free 7-day devotional.

We all want approval... and the question we ask and wonder about is this: Does God approve of me? 

Discipline never feels great as we're going through it, but when we experience God's discipline in our lives we can trust that it shows we're loved, that we belong, and that it's for our good.

To follow Jesus is to reorient your entire life around him. It's not self-love, absolute freedom, or chasing desires—it's self-denial, binding commitment, and daily surrender. He invites us not just to believe, but to walk closely with him into true abundance.

Dr. Cheryl Bridges Johns – distinguished visiting professor at United Theological Semianry and professor of Christian Formation at Pentecostal Theological Seminary for 35 years –  is a long-time friend of The Art of Holiness, and of me. She has been a great mentor over the years. You can find three other conversations with her in our vault so look them up. Today, we are also joined by her husband, Dr. Jackie David Johns, professor of practical Theology at Pentecostal Theological Seminary for 40 years. Together, they have written books, pastored congregations and raised great kids. Today, they come to talk about their latest project – a tremendous resource for pastors and laypeople alike –  Encountering the Living Word: Relational Inductive Bible Study.

In this episode, the Pastors' Wives sit down with their new friend, Dr. Josh Morgan. Josh is the proud husband of a pastor's wife and brings nearly two decades of ministry experience, along with a doctorate in Christian Formation and Discipleship. His heart beats for helping struggling believers feel close to God again, and he's shared the life-changing power of Jesus with millions through his engaging digital content.Together, they dive into how church leaders can support believers on the fringes of faith—those wrestling with doubt, deconstruction, or feeling disconnected. Josh also shares a fun and unexpected connection to Home Improvement's beloved Al Borland, adding a dose of nostalgia and humor to the conversation.This episode is full of laughter, encouragement, and practical insight on loving post-deconstruction Christians well.Follow Along with Josh:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshuasethmorgan/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joshuasethmorgan8ish Minute Podcast:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/8ish-minute-bible-study/id1802397670Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6NpJhVt3rDuC51uWIzmZND?si=54f40601364242bd&nd=1&dlsi=90ec44c04c8e41f9To purchase the BOOK, head here: ⁠https://pastorswivestellall.com/book⁠⁠To shop our MERCH, head here: ⁠https://pastorswivestellall.com/shop⁠⁠Want to support the Pastors' Wives Tell All podcast ministry? Become a patron: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/pastorswivestellall ⁠⁠SUBSCRIBE: ⁠Sign up⁠ for our email list and receive updates on new episodes, free gifts, and all the fun! Email sign up ⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠!CONTACT US: ⁠hello@pastorswivestellall.com⁠⁠FOLLOW US:Website: ⁠⁠pastorswivestellall.com⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠@pastorswivestellall⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠@pastorswivestellall⁠⁠JESSICA:Instagram: ⁠⁠@jessica_taylor_83⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@come_away_missions⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@do_good_project__⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠Come Away Missions⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Do Good Project⁠⁠Websites: ⁠⁠Do Good Project⁠⁠, ⁠⁠Come Away Missions⁠⁠JENNA:Instagram: ⁠⁠@jennaallen⁠⁠, ⁠⁠@jennaallendesign⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠@JennaAllenDesign⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠Jenna Allen Design⁠⁠STEPHANIE:Instagram: ⁠⁠@msstephaniegilbert⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠I Literally LOL⁠⁠Website: ⁠⁠Stephanie Gilbert⁠

Click here (https://incarnation.org/) to check out Church of the Incarnation, where Jordan serves as Priest of Christian Formation.

Romans 12:10 instructs us to "honor one another above ourselves" but what does this actually mean? In this final installment, Pastor Ricky Ortiz breaks down what it looks like to honor one another in the same way that Jesus has honored us.

Showing hospitality is a Biblical command given to us all of us believers by God, and it's something Jesus modeled for us in clear and demonstrable ways.

Send us a text In this episode from the Village Church's sermon podcast, Pastor Susan Cepin continues our teaching series on the Hot Seat Model. This model—crafted by her husband, Pastor Eric Cepin—is designed to help people slow down, pay attention to their emotional reactions, and begin tracing them back to the false beliefs shaping their lives. It also creates space to hear the voice of the Gospel, especially where it stands in sharp contrast to the Enemy's heavy-handed lies. Pastor Susan walks us through what it looks like to sit across from the Enemy, recognize his tactics, and stand our ground in the truth of Christ. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

For too long, we've missed the mark on knowing what it means and what it looks like to grieve with one another. 

The goal of this episode is to help encourage Christians to prepare themselves better to engage with God on a Sunday through the sermon.ResourcesChristian Formation Episodes109 - How to Come to ChurchHow to listen to a sermon:HumblyHungry/EagerlyExpectantlyThoughtfullyWorshipfullyConnect With Usprovidenceomaha.orgInstagramFacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org

What if Christians, and the Church, became the most encouraging group of people and the most encouraging place possible? We're called to encourage one another, and in this message, Pastor Ricky Ortiz shares what's required for us to encourage one another!

The goal of this episode is to help people see the power and gift of preaching sermons in the local church.Connect With Usprovidenceomaha.orgInstagramFacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org

Series :: Exodus - Part 3: Show Me Your GloryExodus 34:29-35 :: Andrew Rutten03–09–25 :: Sunday Gatheringprovidenceomaha.orgFacebook InstagramYouTube

In this sermon, Pastor of Formation & Mission Benjamin Kandt explores Hebrews 2, presenting a four-part framework to explain the gospel: God made it all, we lost it all, Jesus gave it all, and we get it all. He begins by reflecting on the Psalm 8 reference in Hebrews, highlighting the profound truth that humanity was created with glory and honor, entrusted with God's authority over creation. However, Pastor Kandt contrasts this biblical view with secular perspectives, arguing that while secularism offers a diminished view of human worth, Scripture presents humanity as divinely endowed with purpose and dignity.He then addresses the fall of humanity, explaining how sin led to humanity losing its authority, effectively handing power over to the devil. This brokenness is visible in the fear, anxiety, and shame that permeate human experience. Yet, the heart of the message is the redemptive work of Jesus, who took on human flesh to destroy the power of sin and death. Pastor Kandt emphasizes that Jesus' sacrifice restores what was lost, offering believers unshakable confidence in God's love and authority. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that Jesus is not ashamed to call believers His brothers and sisters, freeing them from fear and shame so they can live boldly, fully embracing the victory and glory granted through Christ.

In this episode we seek to compel people that the room we gather in matters, and how we gather is both theological and spiritual.Connect With Usprovidenceomaha.orgInstagramFacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org

In this week's message, Pastor Ricky Ortiz shares the first idol we need to smash: the idol of Security! And when it comes to this idol, the question you have to ask is: Is This a Lie?

"How can I be created in the image of God if God is male?"   About today's speaker: Charissa Simmons is Canon for Spiritual Formation at Trinity Cathedral in Portland. She is passionate about helping children to articulate their innate sense of God's presence, and loves to create opportunities for children and adults to experience and wonder about God together. Charissa holds a BA in biology from Pacific Lutheran University, a certificate in Christian Formation from the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest, and is a trainer for the Godly Play Foundation. _____________________ Join us throughout the Advent season for Divine Feminine, a daily podcast Advent Calendar. How are we changed if we pray, "Our Mother, who art in Heaven," or, "We believe in one God, the Mother Almighty?" If humans are created in God's image, perhaps our understanding of and imagination for God has been too narrow. Every day in Advent, tune in to spend a few minutes with God's femininity – as we prepare for her humanity.

Heaven & Nature Sing with Hannah AndersonAdvent invites us to enter into the joy of the season through rhythms of remembrance, renewal, and waiting. But often, our very familiarity with the Advent story can leave us dulled to the miracle and joy of the season.In her book of Advent reflections, Heaven and Nature Sing, author Hannah Anderson invites us all into a fresh reading of the Christmas story by drawing together 25 meditations on the beauty of creation:“What I believe creation invites us back to is reorienting ourselves, not only to God, but to our environment and perhaps even to our own bodies and to ourselves. And so when we are giving our attention to the patterns and rhythms and cycles of creation it has the potential to be an access point for some deeper truths that maybe we've forgotten or we've overlooked.” - Hannah AndersonThis podcast is an edited version of a conversation recorded in fall of 2022. Learn more about Hannah Anderson.Episode outline00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Advent01:51 Introducing Hannah Anderson and Her Work02:28 The Inspiration Behind 'Heaven and Nature Sing'04:39 Attentiveness to Creation and Its Lessons07:57 The Link Between Caring for Creation and Others11:58 The Legend of the First Christmas Tree15:27 Jesus' Birth and the Concept of Habitat19:11 The Brutality and Honesty of Nature22:49 Reconnecting with Nature in Modern Times26:49 Practical Steps to Attune to Nature29:32 Closing Thoughts and Poem31:07 Final Farewell and Podcast InformationAuthors and books mentioned in the conversation:All That's Good: Recovering the Lost Art of Discernment, by Hannah AndersonThe Turning of Days: Lessons from Nature, Season, and Spirit, by Hannah AndersonHeaven and Nature Sing, by Hannah AndersonAn Immense World, by Ed YongRelated Trinity Forum Readings:Bright Evening Star, by Madeleine L'EnglePilgrim at Tinker Creek, by Annie DillardBabette's Feast, by Isak DinesenA Christmas Carol, by Charles DickensThe Gift of the Magi and Two Thanksgiving Gentlemen, by O. HenryGod's Grandeur: the Poems of Gerard Manley HopkinsRelated Conversations:Waiting on the Word, with Malcolm GuiteJoy to the World: Caroling Christmas and Christian Formation, with Keith GettyAdvent: The Season of Hope, with Tish Harrison WarrenTo listen to this or any of our episodes in full, visit ttf.org/podcast and to help make content like this possible, join the Trinity Forum Society.

Jesus made room for all people, and with Jesus all people felt at home! And in this week's message at Meta Church, Pastor Ricky Ortiz shares vision for how we at Meta Church will continue to do the same.

In this episode we examine the different seasons of life most people will experience. What are the ways that we can embrace each season (20s, 30s, 40s... etc), walk with God well in each season, and transition well from one season to the next? Join us as we unpack these questions together.Connect With Usprovidenceomaha.orgInstagramFacebookEmail Usformation@providenceomaha.org

In this week's message, Pastor Ricky Ortiz shares three qualities that separate Jesus and make Him far superior than any candidate we could think of.

In a highly contemptible political climate, Jesus stepped injected Himself into the political narrative by announcing and proclaiming a new Kingdom.

Sin breaks our relationship with God, and unconfessed sin creates a burden that we were never intended to carry. This burden puts a cap on our transformation and it prevents us from becoming like Christ. But confession is the bridge that connects us back to God.

If you've ever felt distant or disconnected in your relationship with God, then this week's message is for you!

Jeannie Smith is the daughter of Polish rescuer Irene Gut Opdyke, who received international recognition for her actions during the Holocaust while working for a high-ranking German official. Irene's story became a nationally acclaimed Broadway play, Irena's Vow. Jeannie is a recipient of the 2015 Civil Rights award given by the Anti-Defamation League and an honorary member of the Jewish Federation of North America. Jeannie resides in Washington State with her husband, Gary. Her visit is sponsored by the JBU College of Education and Social and Behavioral Science and the Office of Christian Formation.

En este episodio Peter y Alexandra conversan con la directora ejecutiva de la Red Menonita de Misión, Marisa Smucker sobre su trabajo en la misión y la dirección de la misma. Smucker, graduada en 2022 del Seminario Bíblico Anabautista Menonita con una maestría en Formación Cristiana, tiene experiencia en ministerios nacionales e internacionales. Smucker se graduó de Goshen College con un título en trabajo social y trabajó en varios ministerios, incluida la participación en PULSE (Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Service Experience). Mientras estuvo en Pittsburgh, asistió al Seminario Teológico de Pittsburgh. En 2007, Smucker regresó a su país natal, Costa Rica, donde ayudó con grupos misioneros de corto plazo y enseñó inglés. En 2015, regresó a los EE. UU. para aceptar un puesto como representante de relaciones eclesiásticas para Mission Network. En 2019, comenzó a dirigir el Servicio Voluntario Menonita (MVS). En 2021, Smucker fue nombrada ejecutiva senior de la división Ventures de Mission Network y en 2024 aceptó la invitación para convertirse en directora ejecutiva. In this episode Peter and Alexandra talk with the executive director of Mennonite Mission Network, Marisa Smucker about her work in the mission and its direction. Smucker, a 2022 graduate from Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary with a master's degree in Christian Formation, has experience in both international and domestic ministries. Smucker graduated from Goshen College with a degree in social work and worked in various ministries, including participation in PULSE (Pittsburgh Urban Leadership Service Experience). While in Pittsburgh, she attended Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. In 2007, Smucker returned to her birth country, Costa Rica, where she assisted with short-term mission groups, and taught English. In 2015, she returned to the U.S. to accept a position as a church relations representative for Mission Network. In 2019, she began leading Mennonite Voluntary Service (MVS). In 2021, Smucker was named senior executive for the Ventures division of Mission Network, and in 2024 she accepted the invitation to become the executive director.

Do you remember those WWJD bracelets? They asked the question, "What would Jesus do?" Though well-meaning and inspired, it's somewhat a mute question. We don't need to ask what Jesus "would" do because we already know exactly what Jesus *did* do!

Thankfully, Jesus didn't just instruct us to follow His way, but He modeled the way for us so we could live like Him and become like Him.

3. Corporate Worship As Christian Formation In Children Julie Smith 08.24.24- by St. Aidan's Anglican Church, KC

In her message, Fer shares her story of following Jesus and the way He has revealed Himself to her. She shares about the importance of actually being with Jesus and not just doing "Jesus things." This is something God has used to transform her and now she shares this message with us all.

In just a short time of following Jesus, EVERYTHING can change! That's the power of following Jesus! And that's the testimony shared by both Dan and Kaki in this week's Summer Mixtape message. Over the past year, Jesus has radically transformed who they are and how they're navigating faith, marriage, and life.

Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!Amy Peeler, author of Hebrews: Commentaries for Christian Formation, shares her insights on leadership through the lens of the book of Hebrews, drawing parallels between Jesus' steadfast priesthood and the role of modern pastors and leaders. Her reflections on enduring hope, resilience, and the practicalities of leading a post-COVID church are valuable for all who are in ministry leadership.THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Amy Peeler explains the concept of loss and how it impacts the community when leaders pass away.Churches feel the impact of the loss of beloved mentors and leaders of faith.Amy Peeler emphasizes the comfort that Jesus Christ offers as an unwavering and stable leader.Amy Peeler emphasizes the need to navigate through confusion, exhaustion, and resistance in the wilderness, offering advice for leaders leading through change.The famous faith chapter, Hebrews 11, emphasizes enduring hope in God and faith as the foundation of good leadership.Amy Peeler highlights the imagery of holding on to Jesus as a boat is tethered to its anchor from Hebrews 6, emphasizing resting in Jesus' strength when things are difficult in our leadership.Humility and service are so important in leadership, even when being a pastor feels costly.Amy Peeler explores the importance of helping congregations navigate loss and resistance.Amy Peeler examines the practical instructions for leaders and the principles for leadership found throughout the letter of Hebrews.Hebrews' message includes the call for leaders to keep trusting in God, especially during persecution.Pastors and priests, according to Amy Peeler, are mediators, similar to Jesus' role as High Priest.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Amy Peeler:www.amypeeler.comWheaton CollegeBooks mentioned:Hebrews: Commentaries for Christian Formation, by Amy PeelerWomen and the Gender of God, by Amy PeelerRelated episodes:Power, Vulnerability, Rest, with Tod BolsingerLeading Like Jesus, with Ken BlanchardDid you know Spiritual Life and Leadership has been named the #1 Spiritual Leadership Podcast by the Feedspot Podcasters Database? Check it out HERE!