Podcasts about First Church

Today is the fourth week of the Advent season and Pastor Vance discusses the unexpected guests that arrived at the inn to experience Jesus's birth. In today's sermon he references Luke 2:8-20.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Merry Christmas, a child is born! Tonight is Christmas Eve and we celebrate the coming Lord through songs and scriptures.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Is faith alone enough to make you a child of God—or is there more to it? Do you have to do, or not do, certain things? Follow certain laws or traditions? These were hot questions for the early church, and they finally had a summit meeting to hash it out. Everybody who was anybody was there. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29?v=20251111

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

The 25th Annual Christmas Caravan - one hour of Christmas songs and hymns by gospel artists such as the Staple Singers, Gospel Keynotes, First Church of Deliverance Choir, Clark Sisters, Ward Singers, Rev. James Cleveland & Angelic Choir, and others.

Pastor John of First Church explains to us how all the errors and contradictions in the bible actually make him trust it MORE than if it were actually perfect.Cards:What Does "Inerrant" Even Mean?

Today is the third week of the Advent season and we explore "The Face of Faithfulness" a sermon shared by Pastor Vance referencing Matthew 1:18-25.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

The First Church of Aoki | lemonparty 164 The keyboard breaks and the mouse splits in half but Ben pitches his new movie idea while chaos ensues.... Devan goes off on dog reassignment surgery, Jace protects children from the homeless of Los Angeles, Gubba Mud is up to her old homestead eggy tricks, and the boys praise Randy Rainbow in this holiday ep... this week on lemonparty. https://www.lemonparty.life/ https://hellofresh.com/lemon10FM https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LEMON bonus episodes ⁠https://www.patreon.com/lemonparty⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when deconstruction becomes an identity—and woundedness becomes a platform? In this episode of the Future Christian Podcast, Loren Richmond Jr. talks with pastor and writer Tara Beth Leach about the growing online ecosystem where deconstruction is monetized, anger is rewarded, and discipleship is often replaced by endless dismantling. Tara Beth shares why she believes some deconstruction is necessary (especially as faith matures), but warns that deconstruction without reconstruction can become a spiral that forms people in cynicism rather than hope. She describes how churches can respond to cultural crises without becoming “statement churches,” why partisan politics becomes idolatrous, and how practices like liturgy and theology formation can subvert polarization and re-form the Christian imagination. In this conversation, you'll hear about: Why online deconstruction and local church reality are often very different The danger of mistaking deconstruction for discipleship How algorithms reward outrage and shape Christian formation Why Gen Z is often hungry for embodied, communal faith Liturgy and slow formation as a pastoral response in a divided age The difference between charisma and character—and what churches celebrate Supporting women in ministry: why men often “call out” people who look like them Tara Beth's “G.R.E.A.T.” morning prayer practice and her book The Great Morning Revolution   Tara Beth Leach is a pastor, preacher of the Word, and writer. She speaks widely at conferences, retreats, and universities across the country on Women in Ministry, Church Leadership, and the call to be a Radiant Witness. She is the Senior Pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, IL and previously served at Christ Church in Oakbrook and as Senior Pastor of First Church of the Nazarene of Pasadena (”PazNaz”) in SoCal. She is a graduate of Olivet Nazarene University and Northern Theological Seminary and has authored three books, including Emboldened and Radiant Church. Tara Beth is the co-founder of Propel Ecclesia and is also the co-host of The Pastors Table podcast. She has two beautiful and rambunctious sons and has been married to the love of her life, Jeff, since 2006.   Mentioned Resources:

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

In this Unitarian Universalist Advent sermon, Rev. Beth Dana invites us into the quiet and often uncomfortable space of waiting. As we light candles and prepare for Christmas, we explore how Advent is less about rushing to joy and more about holding hope in the dark. Through story, tradition, and reflection, this message reminds us that waiting can open our hearts to something new. In a world marked by fear, division, and uncertainty, Advent calls us to break open closed doors and welcome light, peace, and love. This sermon connects the Christmas story to our lives today and encourages us to trust that even when we cannot see it yet, hope is already breaking through.

Today starts the season of Advent and a new sermon series "Face at the Manger" where we explore the people who witnessed the birth of Jesus. We start with "What the Prophets Imagined..." a sermon shared by Pastor Vance referencing I Peter 1:3-12.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Today is the second week of the Advent season and we explore "What the Angel Foretold..." a sermon shared by Pastor Vance referencing Luke 1:26-38.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

Hey there! You're listening to the Faith First Podcast and I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington, CT. Let me ask you during these summer months, have you kept yourself hydrated? I am sure you have you lost the ability or desire to make connections? I am talking about true deep connections within the body of Christ and with Jesus Himself. Connecting with Christ for Life is what our Lead Pastor Steve Darr and myself will dive into today. Welcome Steve, glad you're here.In this episode, you'll discover:Why is our connection with each part of the Trinity important for our spiritual growth and How does it shape our connection with others?What does being made in the image of God signify to us in how we ought to live our lives?The connection between all three persons of the Trinity to tightly knit together for they are three-in-one. How does this connection show us how to be as the Body of Christ?What would you say to the person who doesn't think they need a community, a church, a gathering of other Christians, what would you say about their connectedness with God and each other?Just as the Trinity consists of three distinct persons, the church is made up of diverse individuals with unique gifts, backgrounds, and callings. And, we are united by one Spirit and one purpose— to glorify God.If this is your first time with us here at the Faith First Podcast, we hope you enjoyed what you heard and will hit the subscribe button below and be notified to when a new episode will air. Until then, get connected to other Christians and to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, faith first.

The church is God's instrument to change the world. The missional reach of First Church extends well beyond The 918. It crosses international borders and reaches people in some of the most difficult situations on Earth. On December 1, Beyond Sunday will highlight and celebrate what God is doing through local and global missions partners and the members of First Church.

Welcome! You are listening to the Faith First Podcast. I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a pastor here at First Church in Torrington, Connecticut. In this episode, we will be listening to a message on the topic of making connections— connection with God and connection with one another. If you're ready, then lest's listen in on the message by our Lead Pastor Steve Darr…In this episode, you'll discover:How Scripture from Genesis to Revelation shows an interconnectedness within the TrinityWhy the Trinity shows the unity that is to be among believersHow the Trinity works togetherWhat type of relationship are we to have with God and with one anotherIn Scripture, we see the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit working in perfect harmony. This divine connection is not just functional but relational. The triune God— three persons in one— exists in eternal love, unity and fellowship. If this is your first time listening to the Faith First Podcast, be sure to hit the notification bell below to be alerted to when a new episode will be launched. And until next time, step closer into relationship with God faith first.

Welcome to worship. Today Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "Focused on Gratitude" referencing Philippians 4:4-9.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

Sunday evening message from the pulpit of Falls Baptist Church

Joint Worship Service of New Knoxville Methodist Church and First Church of New Knoxville

Joint Worship Service of New Knoxville Methodist Church and First Church of New Knoxville

Hello and welcome to the Faith First Podcast where we bring you messages and conversations of just how to walk your faith out in this world. I'm Jonathan Gouthier a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington CT and in this episode, I sit down with our Lead Pastor Steve Darr to dive into the topic of all things new. Welcome Steve!In this episode, you'll discover:Why does our perspective on having new things affect us in different ways?How ought we view the coming of Christ?What does it mean to be precious? And why does it matter?Why should we as believers not be satisfied with our present condition? Why should we want all thing to be new in us?As we consider how much Jesus is worth to us and why He is so precious, we will have our own personal testimony that is personal and authentic. That is the message the world needs to hear.We try to provide some very practical ways to step out in your faith and we pray it is beneficial to you who are listening. If you are new to the Faith First Podcast, I ask you to hit the subscribe button to be notified when our next episode will launch. And until then, recognize that God is doing a new thing in you faith first.

Today Pastor Rushing shares a sermon titled "The Head of the Corner" referencing 1 Peter 1:13 - 2:10.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Imagine how Paul felt as he made his way to Europe to share the gospel with people he knew would be very hostile to the message. Did it keep him from going? No! He relied on God to be his strength in time of trouble and threat. A great example for us today, wouldn't you agree?

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

Today we'll continue a study in the sixteenth chapter of Acts, as Paul begins his second missionary journey. One of the greatest aspects of Paul's ministry was his developing trust in the Lord's ability to be the sole controlling influence in his life. Despite the complexity of his itinerary, despite the almost daily threats to his very life - Paul learned not to flinch in his trust of God.

"Hello and welcome! I'm Jonathan Gouthier, a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington, Connecticut and host of the Faith First Podcast. How do you feel when you get a new car? How about new a job? Or a new baby comes along? What's you reaction to the newness that comes into your life? That's what this episode is all about. So, sit back and listen in on a message from our Lead Pastor Steven Darr…In this episode, you'll discover:Why is Jesus' birth seen as an intrusion to someHow Christ brings us new birthWhat does it mean to be precious to GodHow do we fulfill God's call on our livesWhen we put our hope and faith in God's Christ, then our souls are purified. Sins are forgiven and old desires that hindered love are replaced with new ones. That's how God makes us new. If you've been listening to the Faith First Podcast for a while, we thank you. If this is your first time, we invite you to click the subscribe button below. This will send you a notification of when the next episode is launched. And until next time, remember that God makes all things new faith first. 

Today Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "Waiting on the Lord" referencing Lamentations 3:22-26.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

Acts 15:6-21 – First Church Council

Hello and welcome to the Faith First Podcast where we bring you messages and conversations of just how to walk your faith out in this world. I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington CT and in this episode, I am joined by our Lead Pastor Steve Darr to talk about being unashamed in our faith of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Welcome Steve, good to have you here today.In this episode, you'll discover:Why are we so reluctant to share our God story with others?If we get rejected by our friends and family by telling them about Jesus, what can we do?Why is our story important to tell?What does it mean to live unashamed of the Gospel?We may encounter challenges, but when we remember the greatness of God's love and the reality of what He's done for us, we can overcome any fear or hesitation and tell our story to someone who needs to hear.We try to provide some very practical ways to step out in your faith and we pray it is beneficial to you who are listening. If you are new to the Faith First Podcast, I ask you to hit the subscribe button to be notified when our next episode will launch. Until next time, seek to tell your story faith first.

Today is All Saints Sunday where guest preacher Rev. Corey Jones shares a sermon titled "More Treasures than Pockets" referencing Genesis 37:1-11.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

In his All Souls sermon, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter reflects on the fragile beauty of life and the lasting echoes of love, laughter, and memory. Through stories of family and friends who have passed, he reminds us that even as life floats away like feathers, the warmth of connection endures in our smiles, our laughter, and our care for one another. Our annual All Souls service invites us to remember and to hold one another gently in the shared experience of loss and love. It is a time to honor those who have gone before us, to speak their names, and to recognize that in every act of remembrance, we bring them close again.

Maryland Jesuits founded Delaware's first parish: St. Mary of the Assumption, known in its early days as the "Coffee Run Church."("Cradles of Catholicism" series, no. 44, Delaware)

Hello and welcome! I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host of the Faith First Podcast and a Pastor at First Church in Torrington, CT. Did you know that every testimony of salvation, no matter how simple or complex, carries the power of God's grace and truth? You'll discover in this message by our Lead Pastor Steve Darr that there is no reason to be ashamed of the Gospel you talk about to your friends and family. If you're ready, let's listen in…In this episode, you'll discover:Why does the Apostle Paul begin his letter with the heart of evangelismHow we ought to understand the GospelWhat sharing the Gospel really is aboutHow can we share our God-story without shameWhen we understand the Gospel as the very power of God, it changes how we view our testimony. We're not simply sharing a nice story or our personal beliefs; we are sharing the power of God to save, transform, and heal. We are offering the good news that has the power to change lives forever.Let's say you've been listening to the Faith First Podcast for some time. Well, we'd love to connect with you and hear your story. You can do that by going to our website www.firstcong.org and send us a message. Until our next episode, tell someone your God story faith first.

First Church of New Knoxville, Ohio

Pastor Bob's message, “The Book of Acts: SAME TEAM: Musings on the First Church,” Draws from Acts 2:41-47, where he reminds us of the unity, shared mission, and deep sense of community that defined the early church. Pastor Bob encourages us to live out that same spirit today, devoting ourselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, so we can grow together in faith and purpose.

Hello and welcome to the Faith First Podcast where we bring you messages and conversations of just how to walk your faith out in this world. I'm Jonathan Gouthier, a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington CT and in this episode, I am joined by our Lead Pastor Steve Darr to talk about the church, what it is, who it is and why it matters. Hello Steve!In this episode, you'll discover:What is the definition of a Church or maybe I should say THE church?What is the role of the Church or the Community of Believers?What does the Bible have to say to the Churches?What do you believe Jesus is trying to tell the Community of the Followers of Christ today?Christ is always present to guide our church, show us the way, acknowledge what we do well, rebuke whatever needs to be rebuked, and shower our church with spiritual blessings when we overcome the temptations of this world.We try to provide some very practical ways to step out in your faith and we pray it is beneficial to you who are listening. If you are new to the Faith First Podcast, I ask you to hit the subscribe button to be notified when our next episode will launch. And until then, be a committed follower of Christ in community faith first.

Two weeks ago, we continued our stewardship sermon series "Stewardship: Grateful, Faithful, Hopeful" where Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "Our Gift to the Community" referencing Matthew 5:13-16.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Today we continue our stewardship sermon series "Stewardship: Grateful, Faithful, Hopeful" where Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "The Gift of 'Being' the Church" referencing Deuteronomy 14:22-27.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Jeff introduces Springs First Church of the Nazarene and Pastor Mike Higley. You drive past Academy Blvd. and Fountain Blvd – hear what God is doing at Springs First! Check out www.springsfirst.churchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hey there! You're listening to the Faith First Podcast and I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington, CT. Did you know that as a believer, you're to go out and make disciples? Jesus commanded us that He will be with us as we create and grow in community with one another. In this episode, we will listen to a message given by our Lead Pastor entitled, The Community of the Followers of Christ. Let's listen in…In this episode, you'll discover:What injustice does the church have with newcomersWho has been keeping the church quietWhat impact the church ought to be having in the worldWhat God has told the church of yesterday and todayI really don't know what Jesus would say to our church. Except He would only say what God told Him to say. And whatever it was it would be done with love and the motive to bless and strengthen everyone to encourage them to be a community that follows after Him.If you are new to the Faith First Podcast, I encourage you to hit the subscribe button below so that you will be notified to when the next episode will launch. And until then, be in community, growing faith first.

Today we continue our stewardship sermon series "Stewardship: Grateful, Faithful, Hopeful" where Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "of Those Who Serve Us" referencing 1 Corinthians 9:7-14.While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Hey there! You're listening to the Faith First Podcast and I'm Jonathan Gouthier, your host and a Pastor here at First Church in Torrington, CT. Let me ask you during these summer months, have you kept yourself hydrated? I am sure you have. Well do you know that we must also quench our thirsty souls? That's what our Lead Pastor and myself will dive into today. Welcome Steve, glad you're in the studio today.In this episode, you'll discover:How is Jesus Christ our living water? We hear this all the time, but maybe we don't understand what it means.Physically, we get thirsty over and over. How is that different with Jesus as the living water?What is it that Jesus offers above and beyond all the other things that we do to try to fill our lives?Why are we considered vessels for God's own choosing? What do we hold?Just as Jesus extended grace to the Samaritan woman, we are called to reach out to those who are spiritually thirsty around us. Whether through a kind word, a listening ear, or a helping hand, we have the opportunity to show the world the love of Christ that quenches every thirst.If this is your first time with us here at the Faith First Podcast, we hope you enjoyed what you heard and will hit the subscribe button below and be notified to when a new episode will air. Until then, get hydrated with the living water of God faith first.

Today we begin our stewardship sermon series "Stewardship: Grateful, Faithful, Hopeful." Today is also Worship Art Appreciation Sunday and Pastor Vance shares a sermon titled "The Gifts We Are" referencing Colossians 3:23-24 with the simple message of "Thank You."While you worship online, we invite you to fill out a connection card. This card is not only a way for us to connect with you but also an opportunity for you to share any prayer requests you may have: firstchurchorlando.org/connection-cardGiving: firstchurchorlando.org/give-nowMissed a past service? Check out our YouTube Channel for past services or you can find our Podcast wherever you podcast from.Like and Subscribe for more First Church content.Want to know more about First Church? Visit our website at firstchurchorlando.org

Beyond Boston: Epic Day Trips & Weekend Getaways in New EnglandBoston is amazing, but here's the thing: sometimes you've gotta escape the city limits to really soak in New England magic. Lucky for us wanderers, Boston sits at the heart of some of the coolest, quirkiest, most historic little towns in the U.S. We're talking witch trials, fishing villages, patriotic battlegrounds, and even beachy boardwalk sunsets.Grab a rental car (yes, it's finally worth it outside the city), load up on Dunkin' iced coffee, and let's road trip Travel Brats style. Here are the best day trips and weekend escapes from Boston that'll make you fall in love with New England all over again. Salem: Witches, Ghosts & Seaside VibesAbout an hour north of Boston, Salem is basically Halloween Town year-round. It's spooky, historic, and surprisingly charming.Walking Route to Hit the HighlightsGedney House (21 High St) – One of the oldest timber-frame homes in Salem, creaky and full of character.Salem Jail (50 St. Peter St) – Atmospheric and eerie; you'll feel like you've stepped into a gothic novel.Broad Street Cemetery – Quiet, haunting, and beautiful.The Witch House (310 Essex St) – Former home of Judge Jonathan Corwin from the witch trials. Legit spooky.Ropes Mansion (318 Essex St) – Movie fans, this is Allison's house from Hocus Pocus. The gardens are gorgeous.Salem Witch Museum (Washington Sq.) – Dramatic, theatrical, and totally worth it for the immersive history lesson.Optional extra: Max & Dani's House (Ocean Ave) from Hocus Pocus. It's a bit of a trek, but fangirls/fanboys, this is your moment.Afternoon Treat: Schooner Fame CruiseFor a change of pace, hit the water on the Schooner Fame. You can help hoist the sails, steer the ship, and pretend you're a pirate for the afternoon. Way more interactive than your average harbor cruise.Eats in SalemVillage Tavern – Cozy, hearty, and pub-y.Longboards – Chill vibe, seafood-heavy menu.Oneil's – Local classic. Lexington & Concord: Where the Revolution BeganIf you geek out on history (hi, it's me ✋), this one's a must. Just 30 minutes from Boston, these twin towns are where the Revolutionary War kicked off.Drive between the sites because they're spread out, but don't expect Uber to save you here—it's not very ride-share friendly.Highlights:Lexington Battle Green – Where the “shot heard 'round the world” was fired.Minute Man National Historical Park – Scenic walking trails + reenactments.Concord's North Bridge – Stand where the colonists forced the British to retreat.Orchards & Farms – Depending on the season, you can go apple picking or just sip hot cider.It's basically a living history lesson, except with better snacks.Walden Pond: Nature Meets LiteratureWalden Pond is the kind of place that makes you want to throw your phone into the lake and live like Thoreau (minus the whole no-WiFi situation).For history lovers: This is where Henry David Thoreau lived in his tiny cabin and wrote Walden.For nature lovers: It's a gorgeous, swimmable pond surrounded by peaceful hiking trails.Pro tip: Visit in the morning to beat the crowds, especially in the fall when the foliage is next-level. Cape Cod & Martha's Vineyard: Beachy BlissAbout 90 minutes south of Boston, Cape Cod is summer in postcard form: sandy beaches, salty air, and clapboard houses.Cape HighlightsHyannisport – Kennedy family stomping grounds.Sandwich Boardwalk – Walk this at sunset for pure magic.From here, hop a ferry to Martha's Vineyard. Yes, it takes planning—parking, ferry tickets, bus passes—but it's worth every ounce of effort. Once you're there, rent bikes or hop the island buses to explore:Oak Bluffs – Cute gingerbread houses.Edgartown – Upscale shops and restaurants.Beaches – All of them. Pack snacks and beach hop.It's laid-back, stunning, and gives you all the coastal New England vibes. Gloucester & Rockport: Fishermen & Art LoversNorth of Boston, you'll find Gloucester, one of America's oldest fishing ports.Fishermen's Memorial – A powerful tribute with the names of those lost at sea.Harbor Walk – Scenic and lively with boats everywhere.Nearby Rockport is like a tiny storybook village with shops, art galleries, and ocean views for days. Perfect for an afternoon stroll with an ice cream cone in hand. Portsmouth, New Hampshire: A Seaport SurpriseDrive about an hour north and boom—you're in Portsmouth, NH. This little town is buzzing with cool restaurants, historic homes, and waterfront charm.Perfect for:A dinner out with fresh seafood.Wandering cobblestone streets.Starting a mini New England road trip if you're heading toward Maine. Foxborough: Patriots NationIf you're into football, a trip to Gillette Stadium in Foxborough is basically a pilgrimage.Training Camp (summer) is free, but it gets packed.Patriot Place is like an entertainment complex on steroids—restaurants, shops, and a museum.Even if you're not a Pats fan, the energy is infectious. Plymouth: Pilgrims, Lobster Rolls & Shimmer by the SeaWelcome to America's hometown—the landing spot of the Mayflower. And yes, the infamous Plymouth Rock is here (spoiler: it's… underwhelming).How to Spend a Day in PlymouthBreakfast at Café Nicole – Fuel up for exploring.See the Mayflower II – A replica of the original ship.Tavern on the Wharf – Grab a lobster roll for lunch.Shimmer by the Sea cocktail – Sparkly, fun, and Instagram-worthy.Monument to the Forefathers – Bigger than you'd expect.Cupcake Charlie's – Sweet pit stop.Shopping – Fave stores: Soft as a Grape & Fidel's.First Church in Plymouth – Founded in 1606.Marina Walkway – Perfect for catching the sunset.Dinner at 71 West – End with waterfront dining.It's touristy, yes, but in the best way. Bonus: Manchester, NH & Fall LeavesIf you're visiting in the fall, New England's foliage is basically the main event. A quick drive up to Manchester, NH, or even deeper into the White Mountains, will blow your mind with fiery reds, golden yellows, and Instagram gold. Bring a sweater, a thermos of cider, and your camera. Final ThoughtsBoston is the hub, but the real magic happens when you venture just beyond. From spooky Salem to sun-soaked Cape Cod, every trip feels like stepping into a different story. The best part? You don't have to pick just one. With a car, a little caffeine, and a sense of adventure, you can road trip your way through history, beaches, and small-town charm—all within a couple of hours of the city.So, next time you're in Boston, don't stop at the Freedom Trail. Go beyond. The witches, patriots, and fishermen are waiting. 

Hello and welcome, I'm Jonathan Gouthier, a pastor here at First Church in Torrington, Connecticut and host of the Faith First podcast. How do you sustain your walk with God? Do you ever get thirsty on the journeys you take? I'm sure you do scripture. Reminds us to come all you who are thirsty, come to the waters. And, in today's episode. We will be reminded that we all have thirst that goes beyond the physical, so let's listen in on the message given by our lead pastor, Steven Darr.In this episode, you'll discover:Why thirst is the core of the Christian journeyWhat is spiritual thirstHow Jesus Christ is the living water When should we share the living water with othersJust as water is essential to sustain life, Christ is essential to sustain our souls physical water may relieve our thirst for a moment, but the living water Jesus revitalizes our spirit for eternity. If you've been listening to the Faith First podcast for a while we thank you if this is your first time, we invite you to click the subscribe button below this will notify you when the next episode is available. Until next time drink in the living water that restores your soul. faith first

Tara Beth Leach has been with us before. She is a friend of New Room (and a friend of mine!), a pastor, preacher, writer, and advocate for women in ministry (find her latest blog on that topic if you are a woman leader who needs a little encouragement. Its powerful). Currently, Tara Beth serves as the senior pastor at Good Shepherd Church in Naperville, Illinois. She previously served as senior pastor of First Church of the Nazarene of Pasadena (“PazNaz”) in Southern California (that story is also worth finding and reading). She is the author of Emboldened, Radiant Church, and Forty Days on Being a Six. Today, we're talking with her about a new book that releases this week called The Great Morning Revolution. She's here to help us get back to the basics and discover how a morning devotional routine can revolutionize your life. I hope you not only listen ... but live this. 

  In this episode of Grating the Nutmeg, Natalie Belanger tells us about how two journals kept by a Revolutionary War-era girl in the Connecticut Museum of Culture and History's  collection have inspired an original work of music.    Several years ago, Leonard Raybon (Associate Professor of Music at Tulane University) encountered two journals and other writings by Hannah Hadassah Hickok, held at the Connecticut Museum. Hannah was the matriarch of the non-conformist Smith Family of Glastonbury. Her daughters would go on to became nationally famous for protesting their lack of voting rights in the 1870s by refusing to pay their taxes — an act that resulted in the town of Glastonbury confiscating their property, including their beloved cows.   Inspired by the young Hannah's unique voice, Leonard composed an original mini-musical based on her writings. You'll hear Natalie and Leonard's conversation about what moved him to compose the piece and how it fits into his larger project of producing "Ameri-musicals" that use song to get us to think about the past.   Professor Raybon, the Connecticut Museum, and the Glastonbury Historical Society are partnering to present this work to the public in a one-time performance on November 8th, 2025 at 7:00 pm at First Church of Glastonbury at 2183 Main Street, Glastonbury. First Church was the Smith family's congregation, so it's a fitting place to host this unique musical experience! You can visit the CT Museum's website to learn more about the concert.   For more information on the Smith family, visit the CT Women's Hall of Fame, or read this excellent blog from the Library of Congress.    -------------------------------------- Like Grating the Nutmeg? Want to support it? Make a donation! 100% of the funds from your donation go directly to the production and promotion of the show. Go to ctexplored.org to send your donation now.   This episode of Grating the Nutmeg was produced by Natalie Belanger and engineered by Patrick O'Sullivan at www.highwattagemedia.com/   Follow GTN on our socials-Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and BlueSky.   Follow executive producer Mary Donohue on Facebook and Instagram at West Hartford Town Historian. Join us in two weeks for our next episode of Grating the Nutmeg, the podcast of Connecticut history. Thank you for listening!