Podcasts about lead minister

In this episode of Dear Church, Boo Scott joins us for a conversation about worship, generosity, and what God really wants from us.   Boo Scott is the Lead Minister at National Park Church of Christ in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Together, they discuss why generosity isn't ultimately about what we give or how much we give, but about the heart behind it.   Everything we have is a blessing from God. Generosity calls us to humble ourselves, recognize where our blessings come from, and remember that what we have was never truly ours to begin with.   This conversation challenges us to look beyond the amount we give and ask a deeper question: What does our giving reveal about our heart toward God?   True worship isn't simply about what happens in a church building. It's about surrender, gratitude, humility, and recognizing God as the source of every blessing.         Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #BooScott #Worship #Generosity #Giving #ChristianLiving #Faith #GodsBlessings #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianPodcast #WorshipGod #Gospel

In this episode of Dear Church, Chris sits down with Trey Morgan, Lead Minister at Sunset Church of Christ in Lubbock, Texas, to talk about the direction of the church and what it means to get back to what matters most.   Trey is a minister, author, speaker, and marriage coach who has spent years encouraging Christians to live out their faith in practical ways. In this conversation, Chris and Trey discuss the need for the church to become more outward focused, putting evangelism and the Gospel at the center of what we do.   Sometimes we can become so focused on defending truth, debating doctrine, and looking inward that we lose sight of the people who desperately need to hear about Jesus. The church is called to be a people who take the Gospel to the lost, love people, and point them to Christ.   What if getting the church moving in the right direction starts with getting our focus back on Jesus and the mission He gave us? This is a conversation about the church, evangelism, doctrine, and the need to remember why we are here.         Connect with Us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch   Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com.   #DearChurch #TreyMorgan #ChurchOfChrist #Evangelism #Gospel #ChristianLiving #ChurchLeadership #Jesus #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction #ChurchGrowth #OutwardFocused

Joshua: A Man After God's VictoryJoshua 10:1-15Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Joshua: A Man After God's VictoryJoshua 24:1-28Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"What if the answer to your prayer is… you? In this message from our Dangerous Prayers series, we look at Jesus' words in Matthew 9: “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few.” Through story after story, we see Jesus looking at people with deep compassion—not judgment—and inviting His followers to do the same. The problem isn't that people need to be more ready for Jesus. The problem is that we need to be more ready to be Jesus to the people around us. The fields are ripe. People in our neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, families, and everyday routines need to experience the love, mercy, and grace of Jesus. So when we pray for God to send workers into the harvest, we need to be prepared for His answer: “Send me.” Are you ready to pray this dangerous prayer? Lord of the harvest, send out workers—because Frankfort is ripe for harvest. Send me." Ben Webb, Lead Minister

Joshua: A Man After God's VictoryJoshua 7Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Joshua: A Man After God's VictoryJoshua 6Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Joshua: A Man After God's Victory Joshua 4Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given June 28, 2026 Prayer by Mary Breen, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 In an individualistic society, it may be tempting to focus on one's own identity and one's own issues. Dominant forces are more than happy to oblige by pitting one group against another. Join Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, in person and online this Sunday to explore how we might we use our collective forces to advocate for each other during these difficult times.   Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August of 2026, the Pink Haven Coalition will share half the offering collected during Sunday worship at First Parish. Pink Haven is a coalition of trans organizers, mutual-aid groups, progressive faith organizations, queer associations, and individual justice-lovers who are working together to create networks of safety and direct support for trans beloveds and their families who need to relocate, access healthcare across state lines, or stay as safe as possible where they are.. We know that liberation is a group project and that no one is free until everyone is free. We proclaim that trans lives are sacred. Pink Havens' work centers trans lives and experiences, particularly the lives and experiences of BIPOC trans and gender expansive people. Learn more at their website: https://www.pinkhaven.org/. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

Joshua: A Man After God's Victory Joshua 3Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Joshua: A Man After God's VictoryJoshua 2Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given June 7, 2026 Prayer by Bill Licea-Kane, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 How do we claim and own our gender as it is? During Pride month, let's take time to celebrate all the ways we are seen and known in the fullest expression of our gender!   Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For June, July, and August of 2026, the Pink Haven Coalition will share half the offering collected during Sunday worship at First Parish. Pink Haven is a coalition of trans organizers, mutual-aid groups, progressive faith organizations, queer associations, and individual justice-lovers who are working together to create networks of safety and direct support for trans beloveds and their families who need to relocate, access healthcare across state lines, or stay as safe as possible where they are.. We know that liberation is a group project and that no one is free until everyone is free. We proclaim that trans lives are sacred. Pink Havens' work centers trans lives and experiences, particularly the lives and experiences of BIPOC trans and gender expansive people. Learn more at their website: https://www.pinkhaven.org/. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

Joshua: A Man After God's Victory Joshua 1:1-9Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Jesus Over EverythingColossians 4:2-18Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Over Everything"Colossians 3:14-4:1Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Jesus Over EverythingColossian 3:1-14Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Over Everything"Colossians 2:16-23Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Over Everything" Colossians 2:6-15Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

In this special episode, Rev. Anthony Jenkins, Lead Minister of Paint Branch Unitarian Universalist Church and U.S. Navy Chaplain delivers the Homily for the ordination of Rev. Ryan McCray Ely Offered in the spirit of joy, calling, and community, this message reflects on the sacred journey to ministry, the relationships that sustain it, and the deep commitment to faith and service at its core. Whether you were present for this meaningful celebration or are joining us now, we invite you to listen, reflect, and be inspired by this moment of dedication and hope.

"Jesus Over Everything"Colossians 1:24-2:5Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given April 19, 2026 Prayer by Bill Licea-Kane, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Thich Nhat Hahn says these are the three most powerful words we can ask whenever we are confronted with a heated moment or believe our belief/values are being assaulted. How can humility become a spiritual practice? As Adam Grant asks in his book "Think Again," is it possible for us to reframe and shift our thinking? Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For April 2026, The Cambridge Women's Center will share half the offering collected during Sunday worship at First Parish. The Cambridge Women's Center is a physical and digital community space open to anyone for whom woman is a meaningful identifier or lived experience. They offer a safe space for learning, emotional support, empathy, and empowerment through self-determination. Learn more at their website: https://www.cambridgewomenscenter.org/. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

Jesus Over EverythingColossians 1:1-14Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"So, what does it mean to be poor in spirit? I think we could say it this way: BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO RECOGNIZE THEIR OWN SPIRITUAL BANKRUPTCY. Some people are qualified for citizenship in this new Kingdom with this new King. If you can recognize your own spiritual bankruptcy, if you can recognize how much you need a savior, then you are qualified for citizenship in this new Kingdom that Jesus is building. Now, recognizing your own spiritual bankruptcy doesn't mean that you hate yourself. It doesn't mean that you feel like you have no value. It doesn't mean that you have weak faith or a false humility. It's none of those things. What it does mean is that you recognize you are broke spiritually. Recognize you are brokenhearted. That you are captive. Recognize that you are in the darkness as a prisoner spiritually. No one can participate in this new Kingdom who has not recognized their desperate need for God and their own inability to meet that need." Ben Webb, Lead Minister

Jesus SpeaksLuke 24:13-35Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Good Friday and Easter Sunday are no accident. They're not folklore to make an ugly moment in history look better. They are not twists on history controlled by those in power. They're not even the backup plans of God, as if God's plans were hijacked by man. I mean, can you imagine God watching all of this play out in real time, surprised that man was able to kill Jesus? As if God just sits there for two days, and He's angry and He's grieving and all the different emotions because they've killed Jesus. They've ruined it. And He's pouty and mopey, and then He realizes, “Oh yeah, I'm God. I can just bring Him back to life.” Do you think that's what happened? It doesn't make sense. This was the plan all along — from Genesis 3 to the psalms to the gospels and Jesus's very own words. It was always Jerusalem. It was always the religious leaders. It was always the cross, and it was always the tomb. Because He came to conquer our sin problem, and He came to conquer the separation that our sin caused. He came to conquer death." Ben Webb, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"Revelation 2&3Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"Acts 9:1-22Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"John 20:24-29Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given Sunday, March 1, 2026 Prayer by Mary Babic, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 How can all of us engage in the spiritual practice of intentional rest? Come join us for worship as we consider rest and nourishment as an important spiritual task. Rev. Erica Richmond will be preaching and the First Parish C Winds group, in addition to accompanist Ken Seitz, will offer music.   Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For March 2026, Boston Women's Fund will share half the offering collected during Sunday worship at First Parish. Boston Women's Fund uplifts, advocates for, and invests in women, girls, and gender-expansive people who are leading grassroots organizations and systems-change efforts across Greater Boston. BWF provides flexible funding, leadership and youth development, and educational programming that strengthen movements led by those most impacted by injustice. We prioritize BIPOC-led and BIPOC-serving grassroots organizations with annual budgets under $500,000, helping build power, opportunity, and lasting community impact. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

Jesus SpeaksLuke 23:32-43Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks" John 18:28-19:16Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"Luke 22; Matthew 26Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"John 6:60-71Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given February 1, 2026 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Using Nedra Tawwab's book "Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself" as the basis for this sermon, how do we live a more authentic life by knowing what we can tolerate or not? How do we draw a line where we end and someone else begins? What impact might this have on our relationships? The First Parish Choir and accompanist Ken Seitz will offer music. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For February 2026, Boston Healthcare for the Homeless will share half the offering collected during Sunday worship at First Parish. The mission of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program is to provide or assure access to the highest quality health care for all individuals and families experiencing homelessness in our community. BHCHP is an integrated team of over 600 medical and behavioral health staff, social service providers, and support staff committed to providing comprehensive, high-quality health care for individuals and families experiencing homelessness in Boston and beyond. Learn more at their website: https://www.bhchp.org/. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

"Jesus Speaks"Matthew 8:5-13Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given January 11, 2026  Prayer by Loren Gomez, Worship Associate https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 The word 'trust' has been used frequently, but it's often difficult to wrap your hand around. Brené Brown breaks it down to the BRAVING acronym. Come find out what it means to begin 2026 with plenty of marbles in the trust jar. Music by the First Parish Choir and accompanist Kenneth Seitz. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For January 2026, The Network / LA Red will share half the plate. The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, kink, polyamorous, and queer communities. Rooted in anti-oppression principles, their work aims to create a world where all people are free from oppression. They strengthen the communities they serve through organizing, education, and the provision of support services. The Network/La Red is recognized nationwide for supporting survivors and engaging LGBT, kink, poly, and queer communities in organizing to end partner abuse and oppression. Their services are free, confidential, available in English and Spanish, and accessible by wheelchair, TTY, and public transportation. They are committed to honoring the experiences and choices of survivors in every aspect of their work. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

"Jesus Speaks" John 4:1-42Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given December 24, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister Reading of "Each Night a Child is Born," by Sophia Lyon Fahs, read by Rev. Stevie Carmody, Minister of Religious Education https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 The Christmas Eve services, a highlight of the season, occur twice due to the number of people attending.   The service features the lighting of candles, organ fanfares and children reading the ancient tale.  Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong offers a homily. As is our annual tradition, we welcome musical guests - Brendan Mathieson, trumpet, Mark Nelson, organist, and Lucas Fernandez, vocalist. ASL interpretation provided by Rachel Judelson and Rebecca Kranz. Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For Christmas Eve, the full amount of gifts given supported the work of Renewal House, a domestic violence shelter for individuals in crisis and their children. Since 1980 Renewal House has provided temporary emergency shelter and advocacy services as part of the Unitarian Universalist Urban Ministry.

"Jesus Speaks"John 3:1-21Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Speaks"John 2:1-12Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Jesus SpeaksMatthew 4:1-11Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Jesus SeesMark 8:22-26Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

Rev. Dr. Jonipher Kwong, Interim Lead Minister, preaching Worship service given December 14, 2025 Prayer by Rev. Erica Federspiel Richmond, Parish Minister https://firstparish.info/ First Parish A liberal religious community, welcoming to all First gathered 1739 Who doesn't want to get on Santa's "Nice" list? But can our behavior really be reduced to these binary options, or is there another way of being that would make the world a better place? Or even the holiday get togethers just a tad more tolerable? Offering and Giving First The Giving First program donates 50% of the non-pledge offering each month to a charitable organization that we feel is consistent with Unitarian Universalist principles. The program began in November 2009, and First Parish has donated over $200,000 to more than 70 organizations. For December 2025, The Welcome Project will share half the plate. The Welcome Project, founded in 1987 in Somerville's Mystic Public Housing Development, now provides programming citywide that strengthens the capacity of immigrant youth, adults, and families to advocate for themselves and influence schools, government, and other institutions that shape their lives. TWP's culturally responsive approach builds on immigrants' existing strengths to forge connections across language and culture. The organization provides essential services to the vast and increasingly diverse immigrant community, including Brazilians, Haitians, individuals from the Northern Triangle of Central America, and so many others worldwide who strive to find success and community in their new city. The remaining half of your offering supports the life and work of this Parish. To donate using your smartphone, you may text "fpuu" to 73256. Then follow the directions in the texts you receive.

"Jesus Sees"Mark 5:1-6:6Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Jesus Sees"Mark 2:1-12Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

In this episode of Productivity Smarts, host Gerald J. Leonard interviews David Suk Brown, co-author of 'Identical Opposites: Find Your Voice and Speak.' They discuss practical strategies for boosting workplace productivity, overcoming the fear of speaking up, and leveraging the power of authenticity and alliances. David shares insights from his research and professional experience, emphasizing the importance of consistent communication and understanding behavioral models to enhance team dynamics. They also explore the impacts of AI on the workforce and how to maintain relevance amid rapid technological advancements.    Tune in as they discuss the challenges and opportunities in today's workplace, the significance of the speak framework, and how these concepts can transform not just productivity but also happiness and fulfillment in your life.   What We Discuss [00:00] Introducing David Suk Brown and His New Book [06:16] Finding Your Voice in the Workplace [14:53] The SPEAK Framework for Effective Communication [20:37] The Human Element vs. AI [21:13] Leveraging Networks and Skills [24:09] The Importance of Authenticity and Empathy [25:23] Navigating Vulnerability and Consistency [32:25] Adapting Voice and Culture Strategies [36:27] Connecting with the SPEAK Framework Authors [37:55] Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action Notable Quotes  [7:00] "Sometimes people can get lost in their position or lost in their responsibilities and not find their individual gifts and talents, and it just made sense for us to make that connection." - David Brown, Sr. [7:46] "95% of employees struggle just to be able to speak and share their voice and opinions." - David Brown, Sr. [9:57] "Get people to understand that there are values that could come from every member of the team, but you let them shine. You let them speak first. You let them flush out their ideas and thoughts, and then you act in a position where you're curious and you're asking more questions, 'cause you want them to bring everything out that they're thinking." - David Brown, Sr. [20:38] "AI, even as much as we're seeing technology advance and progress, it cannot replace certain aspects of the human element." - David Brown, Sr. [24:11] " It's not just about how many degrees you have, your depth of experience. It's about bringing who you are, your whole authentic self to that role, to that environment. That's gonna be the defining factor." - David Brown, Sr. Our Guest David Suk Brown is a seasoned strategic communication and presentation coach who empowers executives, thought leaders, and business owners to enhance their impact through public speaking and executive coaching. As President of DSB Leadership Group, author, and university communications instructor, he has delivered over 2,500 inspiring messages that equip audiences with tools for lasting success. A Lead Minister and identical twin, David brings unique insight into communication, leadership, and collaboration as co-host of the Twins Talk it Up and Twins Talk Tech Leadership podcasts. Resources and Links David Suk Brown Website - https://www.dsbleadershipgroup.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidsbrownsr/ Book: Identically Opposite: Find Your Voice and SPEAK - https://www.amazon.com/Identically-Opposite-Find-Voice-SPEAK/dp/B0FSKWKDZQ Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds  

"Jesus Sees"Matthew 4:18-22Bryce Hotchkiss, Lead Minister

"Paul says, “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in…” Now I just want you to imagine how you would anticipate this verse ending. How do you think it ends? It welled up in … welts … beatings? That would make sense. Maybe it welled up in … gold stars and a thumbs-up from God? Maybe even better. Maybe welled up in … eternal rewards … heaven? Paul says, “In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in RICH GENEROSITY.” Rich generosity. God gives them something great — Paul calls it a grace. Then Paul says that their life is hard, but Paul says that they have overflowing joy … and they have extreme poverty. And then Paul says all of those things turn into … rich generosity. Rich generosity." Ben Webb, Lead Minister

"At the end of Hebrews, the writer gives some very simple, practical teaching about what it looks like to be a Jesus follower. It's true for those anxiously waiting for the promises to be fulfilled, and it's true for those building rock monuments to remember the victories. It's true for all Jesus followers in all times and situations. This is what we remember in the meantime." Ben Webb, Lead Minister

"The Bible describes Jesus as the way to God, the touchstone of all truth, and the means to life as God meant it to be lived. It also describes Jesus as: “full of grace and truth,” 100% grace, and 100% truth. So … because there is a God you don't get your own truth, and I don't get my own truth. Do you get that? But he is 100% grace, too. Which means, if you can't speak God's truth with grace, you kind of need to hush. Truth without grace is not God's truth. And grace without truth is not God's grace. The two have to go together, they are inextricably intertwined. And, that's kind of the way we want to do it here at CapCity … people following Jesus together, trying to live out his truth and grace, not compromising on either." Stephen "Doc" Pattison, Lead Minister