Podcasts about spiritual impact

Elevate Together: Helping Others Through Forgiveness & Compassion In this YouTube live for the Soul Elevation Podcast, I explore the importance of helping others ascend spiritually while working on our own spiritual growth. How does every action, even small ones, contribute to the collective elevation.  I share personal experiences of quantum connection, illustrating how individual progress can impact others. I invite you to consider the power of forgiveness and compassion in releasing judgment and anger to expand our consciousness.  Get the New Earth meditation: https://www.karagoodwin.com/funnel/65489/new-earth-meditation  Join the Energy Reset workshop: https://www.karagoodwin.com/energetic-reset-workshop  Check out Shawn Leonard's amazing episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocK5mNuDhYY&feature=youtu.be  Blessings to you on this empowering and enlightening journey to elevate both yourself and humanity. Timestamp: 00:00 Welcome to the Soul Elevation Podcast 00:27 Helping Others Ascend 02:21 Quantum Connections and Spiritual Impact 06:12 The Power of Forgiveness 09:06 Expanding Your Spiritual Evolution 11:06 Utilizing Divine Help 13:40 Upcoming Events and Resources 15:21 Final Blessings and Farewell #spiritualpodcast #spiritualascension #ascension #ascensionprocess #ascensiontalks  Connect with me: https://www.soulelevationpodcast.com https://www.karagoodwin.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kara_goodwin_meditation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karagoodwinmeditation LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karagoodwinmeditation/

Aubrey converses with Sangoma and Spiritual Teacher, Gogo Dineo Ndlanzi, about the spiritual significance of meat and what happens when we fast from it. THE AUBREY MASANGO SHOW BOILERPLATE The Aubrey Masango Show is presented by late night radio broadcaster Aubrey Masango. Aubrey hosts in-depth interviews on controversial political issues and chats to experts offering life advice and guidance in areas of psychology, personal finance and more. All Aubrey’s interviews are podcasted for you to catch-up and listen. Thank you for listening to this podcast from The Aubrey Masango Show. Listen live on weekdays between 20:00 and 24:00 (SA Time) to The Aubrey Masango Show broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk between 20:00 and 21:00 (SA Time) https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk Find out more about the show here https://buff.ly/lzyKCv0 and get all the catch-up podcasts https://buff.ly/rT6znsn Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfet Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tune in to a new episode of the Significant Women Podcast with Carol McLeod! Today, Carol speaks with Brooke Kehl about her faith journey and her work with Eastern European Mission (EEM). They discuss the importance of personal encounters with Jesus, the power of storytelling, and the transformative impact of providing Bibles to those in need. Brooke shares inspiring stories of women like Nadia and Zara, who have experienced life-changing moments through their faith. This conversation highlights the significance of encouragement, the role of women in faith, and the profound truth that each person is loved and seen by God. Learn more about and support EEM at https://www.eem.org/ Connect with Carol at https://www.carolmcleodministries.com/ or email her at carolmcleod@carolmcleodministries.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/carolmcleodministriesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolmcleodministriesYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQE6z9U5VR9tjoJB1NAsgMw

Send us a textIn this episode of the King Cam Ujumbe podcast, we explore the spiritual impact of Malcolm X on the world. Join us as we delve into his teachings and the lasting legacy he left behind.The Spiritual Impact of Malcolm X on the WorldLetters from Mecca:  https://www.bonhams.com/auction/26079/lot/162/malcolm-x-1925-1965-el-hajj-malik-el-shabazz-autograph-letter-signed-el-hajj-malik-el-shabazz-malcolm-x-writing-from-mecca-on-his-transformation-and-his-new-outlook-on-race-in-america-6-pp-4to-275-x-214-mm/Please use my Amazon Affiliates Link ➜ https://amzn.to/40w9zMG

A spinal cord injury is so much more than just the inability to walk. This session will discuss the physical, emotional, and spiritual (and sexual!) impact of SCI that every medical practitioner needs to know. Session recorded on November 7 2024 3:45 PM - 4:45 PM Session block #2 Speaker name(s): Jenny Smith Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/what-you-need-to-know-about-spinal-cord-injuries-the-physical-emotional-and-spiritual-impact

Rita Secauli hosted a radio show discussing the Gospel of Mark, focusing on the story of Jesus healing a demon-possessed man and its spiritual implications. She explored various themes including the power of faith, spiritual battles, God's will, and the importance of self-reflection and righteousness. Throughout the show, Rita incorporated insights from religious scholars, drew parallels to modern life, and emphasized the significance of seeking God's grace and resisting evil. 00:00 Gospel of Mark: Healing and Redemption She highlighted the man's unclean spirit, his inability to be bound, and his self-harming behavior. Jesus' encounter with the man led to the man's healing and the demons entering a herd of swine, causing them to drown. The townspeople, fearing the man's presence, asked Jesus to leave their region. The man, now healed, begged Jesus to accompany him, but Jesus instructed him to return home and share his story. The man complied, and his tale of Jesus' compassion spread throughout the Decapolis, causing amazement among the people. Rita concluded the show with a prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to guide them and cleanse them of their sins. She also mentioned St. Athanathius' commentary on the gospel. 04:43 Faith, Christ's Name, and Effective Connections Rita discussed the power of faith and the use of Christ's name to overcome evil spirits and achieve confidence in life. She used the analogy of knowing a powerful person to gain access to exclusive places, emphasizing the importance of utilizing one's connections effectively. 06:49 Jesus Christ's Power and Worship Rita discussed the spiritual battles and the power of Jesus Christ. She highlighted the difference between worshiping Jesus out of love and fear, using the example of the devil who worshipped Jesus out of fear. She also discussed the unbelief of the Jews who claimed that Jesus cast out demons by the power of the devil, and how this wouldn't make sense as the demons would not obey him. 11:15 St. Bede's Story and Symbolism Rita discussed the story of St. Bede, focusing on the unclean spirit that left a man and entered pigs, causing them to run into the sea. She interpreted the story as a reflection of the town's expulsion of evil and the bringing of distant people closer to God. 14:21 Contemplating Gospel of Mark and Church Rita expressed a desire to delve deeper into the text, emulating the contemplation of St. Bede. Rita also reflected on the rejection of Jesus by some people, likening it to modern-day situations like the media, and how Jesus sends those healed to be his testimony in those places. 19:13 Exploring God's Will and Consequences Rita discussed the concept of God's antecedent and consequent wills, emphasizing that God's original will is to bless and save all people, but he also allows for consequences due to human free will. She highlighted the importance of choosing virtue freely and seeking God's grace to become more virtuous. Rita also prayed for the opportunity to learn from God voluntarily, rather than through life's challenges. 26:47 Self-Reflection, Righteousness, and Spiritual Impact Rita discusses the importance of self-reflection and true righteousness, using the example of Jeremiah to illustrate how one righteous person can have a significant impact. 30:48 Jesus' Power to Heal and Resist Evil Rita discussed the Gospel of Mark and Luke, focusing on the story of a man possessed by demons. She emphasized Jesus' ability to heal the man and others, and how this demonstrates his power to heal all infirmities. 34:48Jesus' Healing and the Power of FaithRita discussed the story of Jesus healing a man possessed by demons, emphasizing the importance of faith and the potential for fear and rejection in the face of miracles. She highlighted the man's fear of losing friends and livelihood due to his association with Jesus, and the importance of humility in acknowledging the power of God.

Is working out and staying active a chore? Or something you enjoy doing? Pastor Gary Thomas will share his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of health and fitness. Instead of thinking of ourselves as ornaments, we can become instruments fit for God's service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29

LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE IF YOU WANT TO MASTER LUCID DREAMING, ACTIVATE YOUR LIGHT BODY, AND EXPLORE ASTRAL REALMS. In this episode, I'm joined by Blue for a deep dive into dream exploration, light body activation, and the art of traveling beyond the physical. We'll explore practical techniques for lucid dreaming, dream mapping, and remembering your dreams more vividly. Blue shares insights on the difference between dreaming from your mind versus your heart, and how your higher self compares to your eternal effervescent immortal self. We'll also discuss how kava can enhance spiritual connection, its link to the merkaba, and how it supports light body activation. Plus, we're diving into Hogwarts-like astral schools, animal communication, and the impact of 5G on your spiritual energy. If you've ever wanted to harness your dreams for answers, clarity, and connection, this conversation is for you. Topics We Discuss: Light Body Activation, Lucid Dreaming, Astral Travel, Dream Mapping, Higher Self Connection, Kava Benefits, Merkaba, Animal Communication, Spiritual Impact of 5G

Gary Thomas shares his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of physical wellbeing. He takes discussion of fitness off the backburner - where many of us tend to leave it! Receive the book Every Body Matters and an audio download of "Understanding the Spiritual Impact of Healthy Living" for your donation of any amount! Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Is working out and staying active a chore? Or something you enjoy doing? Pastor Gary Thomas will share his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of health and fitness. Instead of thinking of ourselves as ornaments, we can become instruments, fit for God's service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29

Is working out and staying active a chore? Or something you enjoy doing? Pastor Gary Thomas will share his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of health and fitness. Instead of thinking of ourselves as ornaments, we can become instruments, fit for God's service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29

Gary Thomas shares his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of physical wellbeing. He takes discussion of fitness off the backburner - where many of us tend to leave it! Receive the book Every Body Matters and an audio download of "Understanding the Spiritual Impact of Healthy Living" for your donation of any amount! Get More Episode Resources If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback.

Is working out and staying active a chore? Or something you enjoy doing? Pastor Gary Thomas will share his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of health and fitness. Instead of thinking of ourselves as ornaments, we can become instruments, fit for God's service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29

Is working out and staying active a chore? Or something you enjoy doing? Pastor Gary Thomas will share his passion for helping Christians see the enormous spiritual value of health and fitness. Instead of thinking of ourselves as ornaments, we can become instruments, fit for God's service. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/776/29

There's this tendency to diminish anything anyone else is doing comes from the envy within the heart. But Rūpa Gosvāmī says, a miracle happens by the association of pure devotees, and that is gradually one's heart changes, and there's no more envy within the heart. And therefore 'nindādi-śūnya-hṛdam īpsita-saṅga-labdhyā,' the person then becomes free from nindā. Do you know somebody who is a professional at criticizing what they're called? A nindaka, or, you know, nindanīyā, like a kīrtanīyā. The kīrtanīyā is they're always singing Haribol! But a nindanīyā is somebody who's always singing other people's faults, and they criticize everyone, but that idea or impulse doesn't enter within the heart of a sādhu. So tolerance, steadiness, and mukhyā prasādāt and they're long, long lists of qualities of the sādhu. In this verse 'satāṁprasaṅgān mama vīrya-saṁvido bhavanti hṛt-karṇa-rasāyanāḥ kathāḥ (SB 3.25.25),' there's the most important quality mentioned of all, and that is that the sādhus are always speaking about Kṛṣṇa's glories. Vīrya means that the Lord's activities are glorious. And such a person is not interested in the mundane news of the world. Prabhupāda mentions that the devotees are not so interested in following the news because he says "Things will go the way they're going to go, and what can you do?" But we're on a different track, and those who follow Sādhus are on a different track. They're interested in discussing in more and more detail the activities of the Lord and His pastimes. (excerpt from the talk 23:12) ------------------------------------------------------------ To connect with His Grace Vaiśeṣika Dāsa, please visit https://www.fanthespark.com/next-steps/ask-vaisesika-dasa/ ------------------------------------------------------------ Add to your wisdom literature collection: https://www.bbtacademic.com/books/ (USA only) https://thefourquestionsbook.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------ Join us live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FanTheSpark/ Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-bhakti/id1132423868 For the latest videos, subscribe https://www.youtube.com/@FanTheSpark For the latest in SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/fan-the-spark ------------------------------------------------------------ #vaisesikaprabhu #vaisesikadasa #vaisesikaprabhulectures #spirituality #bhaktiyoga #krishna #spiritualpurposeoflife #krishnaspirituality #spiritualusachannel #whybhaktiisimportant #whyspiritualityisimportant #vaisesika #spiritualconnection #thepowerofspiritualstudy #selfrealization #spirituallectures #spiritualstudy #spiritualexperience #spiritualpurposeoflife #spiritualquestions #spiritualquestionsanswered #trendingspiritualtopics #fanthespark #spiritualpowerofmeditation #spiritualgrowthlessons #secretsofspirituality #spiritualteachersonyoutube #spiritualhabits #spiritualclarity #bhagavadgita #srimadbhagavatam #spiritualbeings #kttvg #keepthetranscendentalvibrationgoing #spiritualpurpose

The latest episode of the Social Media Podcast features Christian social media influencer and pastor Kap Chatfield sharing his inspiring journey--from growing up in a Christian family to becoming an atheist, and ultimately returning to the faith.   Kap discusses how God guided his path, from being a videographer to a creative director, and eventually, a pastor. He shares how his content is now reaching countless people with the truth of the Gospel. Nils emphasizes the importance of investing in people within the church and the potential of leveraging social media for ministry.   Watch this episode and learn practical tips on using social media to share the Gospel and disciple new believers.   Show Notes: Connect with Kap Chatfield Kap Chatfield WebsiteKap Chatfield Facebook Kap Chatfield Instagram Kap Chatfield YouTubeKap Chatfield Twitter  Kap Chatfield TikTok  Kap Chatfield LinkedIn  Connect with Nils Smith Nils Smith WebsiteNils Smith Facebook Nils Smith Twitter Nils Smith Instagram Nils Smith LinkedIn Social Media Church Discord   Amplify Social Media, your trusted partner in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of social media marketing.  Donorbox MinistryMatters Thousands of churches trust Donorbox MinistryMatters to increase tithes and offerings. With comprehensive tools like a lightning-fast donation form, donor-managed recurring giving, the powerful Donorbox Live™ Kiosk app to collect in-person donations, crowdfunding and peer-to-peer functionality, and more, raising more for your church or ministry has never been easier. Discover how Donorbox MinistryMatters can elevate your ministry's impact today. God Listens Digital Prayer Wall empowers churches to foster deep, authentic spiritual connections. Easily submit and respond to prayer requests, track spiritual milestones, and build a supportive community. Designed for modern ministry, it transcends physical barriers, ensuring every member feels connected, heard, and spiritually nurtured.

#332 In this episode, Guy welcomed Katie Sutton, a profound healer with a rich background in trauma healing, energy healing, and vibrational therapy. They explored the concept of the body as a piece of technology that receives data from cosmic events, affecting our DNA and triggering spiritual ascension. Katie discussed her journey from a challenging corporate life to becoming a spiritual healer and her unique techniques and insights into multi-dimensional trauma healing. The conversation included the connection between astrological events and physical experiences, the importance of nervous system work, and the spiritual transformations currently happening on Earth. Katie also shared her personal experiences with divine downloads, her mission with sacred sites, and her perspective on the future of humanity's ascension process. About Katie: Katie Sutton based in Charlotte, NC is an intuitive channel, vibrational energy healer and wayshower who supports you on your personal path to wholeness and fulfillment which is manifested by living as your authentic self. During her individual healing sessions, workshops, speaking engagements, retreats and online programs and events, she intuitively crafts an alchemy of meditation, breath work, energy medicine and channeled teachings from her guides and higher self to awaken unity consciousness and deep healing for her clients and students. With a warm and compassionate approach, Katie has helped countless individuals overcome their challenges and find greater peace, joy, and fulfillment in their lives. Her dedication to serving others has made her a respected and sought-after healer, teacher, and guide in the field of holistic health and wellness. Katie's approach is centered around empowering her clients to tap into their inner wisdom and access their own unique gifts, allowing them to live as their authentic selves and manifest their true potential. Key Points Discussed:  (00:00) - This 5D ENERGY Shift Will Change EVERYTHING! (01:00) - Welcome and Guest Introduction (02:35) - Katie Sutton's Healing Journey (04:10) - Understanding Trauma and Energy Healing (11:30) - Katie's Personal Healing Journey (20:04) - Connecting with Guides and Higher Dimensions (28:36) - Navigating the Energetic Upheaval (29:24) - The Eclipse Portal and Collective Healing (33:14) - Manifestation and Root Chakra Work (43:38) - Mother Earth's Guidance and Sacred Sites (49:01) - The Physical and Spiritual Impact of Energy Codes (53:19) - Final Thoughts and Resources How to Contact Katie Sutton:www.zenwithinacademy.com www.youtube.com/@ZenWithinAcademy   About me:My Instagram: www.instagram.com/guyhlawrence/?hl=en Guy's websites:www.guylawrence.com.au www.liveinflow.co

If you had the opportunity to leave everything behind and live on a ship to serve those in need, would you? Today's guest, Reanne Newquist, and her family did. The family of five left their lives in California to serve the sick in West Africa with Mercy Ships. For a year, they lived onboard the Africa Mercy Ship, a vessel docked in Senegal. Now, Reanne is sharing with us not only her story, but the mission of Mercy Ships and how they are working to serve those most in need.To learn more about Mercy Ships:www.mercyships.org/servewww.facebook.com/MercyShipswww.instagram.com/mercyships/www.twitter.com/mercyships

Learn how focusing on more than just profits leads to greater success and fulfillment In this clip, Bo explains the concept of the "Triple Bottom Line" and how businesses can create impact across three areas: economic, social and spiritual. ⏰Time Code⏰ 00:00 - Triple Bottom Line 00:53 - Bottom Line #1 01:17 - Bottom Line #2 02:19 - Bottom Line #3 02:36 - The Bible In Context 03:42 - Liberal Son's Confronts Conservative Dad 06:19 - Integrity & Ethics

Life's hectic, but we always find time for what truly matters. Step back from the daily grind and try investing your time in things that have eternal value—it could just change everything.

Life's hectic, but we always find time for what truly matters. Step back from the daily grind and try investing your time in things that have eternal value—it could just change everything.

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald welcomes Jean Ann Powers, Director of Pastoral Care, to dive into the heart of her ministry at the church. Jean Ann shares the incredible work of her 125+ volunteers, describing them as the "foot soldiers" who bring warmth, connection, and care to the congregation. She talks about the importance of matching volunteers with roles that resonate with their hearts and the crucial role of self-care for those who give their time. A major focus of this conversation is the launch of a new program called Unforgettable Friends, a volunteer-driven day program for members of the church with mild to moderate dementia. Jean Ann explains how this initiative not only supports those living with memory loss but also provides a much-needed respite for caregivers. Inspired by similar programs, Jean Ann is excited to create a space where participants find joy, connection, and healing. This episode is full of heartfelt insights into pastoral care, volunteerism, and the transformative power of community engagement. Tune in to learn more about this exciting new initiative and how you can get involved! Learn more about participating or volunteering with Unforgettable Friends: https://dallasuu.org/unforgettablefriends/ 00:00 - Introduction and Welcome Back - Tiny Pulpit Talks returns after summer break; introduction to Jean Ann Powers, Director of Pastoral Care. 01:11 - Jean Ann's Role in the Church - Jean Ann discusses her role as the Director of Pastoral Care since 2012, focusing on personalized care for church members. 01:53 - Volunteer Work in Pastoral Care - Discussion about the 125+ pastoral care volunteers and the profound impact they have on the community. 03:26 - How to Get Involved in Volunteering - Insights on how new members can get involved in pastoral care, with an emphasis on matching individuals to roles they resonate with. 04:25 - The Importance of Self-Care for Volunteers - Jean Ann highlights the significance of self-care for volunteers and encourages flexibility when commitments become overwhelming. 05:37 - The Intersection of Music and Care - Jean Ann talks about the connection between her love for music and her pastoral care work, and the emotional connection music creates. 06:59 - Addressing Dementia and Memory Loss in the Community - Introduction to the new initiative "Unforgettable Friends," a day program for members with mild to moderate dementia. 09:25 - Call for Volunteers and Community Collaboration - Discussion about the need for volunteers and the collaborative efforts across different churches in the community to support the initiative. 11:38 - Spiritual Impact of Caring for Others - Reflection on the spiritual importance of caring for elders and building common ground across denominations for compassionate care. 13:04 - Conclusion and Call to Action - Final thoughts on the excitement for the new program, encouraging listeners to volunteer and stay connected with Tiny Pulpit Talks. Tiny Pulpit Talks is a podcast series from First Unitarian Church of Dallas that takes a behind-the-scenes look at ministry from a Unitarian Universalist perspective. This is a rare opportunity to see what goes into crafting meaningful and inspirational sermons, learn how worship comes together each Sunday, and explore the many facets of spiritual leadership. Subscribe to get updates about new episodes here on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. 

All your relationships—with your spouse, family, and friends—are important but temporary. Your only eternal relationship is with God.The bonds of family and friends help us thrive in this world, but they pale in comparison to the significance of our relationship with the Lord. Today, I'll share some practical ways you can draw closer to God.Connecting Faith and Finances: Why Your Relationship with God Affects Your MoneyYou might wonder, "What does my relationship with God have to do with finances?" After all, this is a blog about money, right? Yes, but it's also about faith. For Christians, faith and finances are deeply intertwined, and the Bible provides three key principles that connect the dots between the two.Principle 1: God Owns EverythingThe first principle is foundational: God created everything, and therefore, He owns everything. Colossians 1:16 makes this clear: “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.” This means that everything we possess is ultimately God's, not ours.Principle 2: God Has Entrusted Us with ResourcesThe second principle is that God has given us everything we possess. James 1:17 says:“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” While God owns everything, He has entrusted us with resources to use temporarily as His stewards.Principle 3: God Desires a Close Relationship with UsThe third principle is that God is not distant or detached—He desires a close relationship with each of us. James 4:8 says: “Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.” We draw near to God by obediently following His Word. With over 2,300 verses about money and possessions in Scripture, God has made it clear that He wants us to manage money according to His principles.The Spiritual Impact of Money ManagementIn Luke 16:11, Jesus indicates that God uses money as a test: “If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” Jesus is saying that how you handle money affects your spiritual life. When you manage it well—according to biblical principles—you naturally grow closer to Christ. But if you don't, your fellowship with the Lord suffers.Obstacles to Financial FaithfulnessBiblical money management is a practical way to improve your spiritual life, but obstacles can get in the way. Two types of disobedience can prevent us from handling money God's way and growing closer to Him.Passive Disobedience: This is simply laziness. Some people don't want to take the time to organize their finances, create a budget, or track their spending. While these tasks might only take a few hours a month, it's often too much to bother with. Sadly, the same person might spend more time than that watching TV every night, and as a result, their intimacy with God suffers.Active Disobedience: For others, money and possessions actively compete with Christ. Jesus warns us in Matthew 6:24, “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Some people believe they can surrender every part of their lives to Christ except for their finances. They might excel at making money, paying bills, saving, and investing, but they refuse to give Christ lordship over their finances. This resistance often centers around tithing or giving to God's Kingdom, leading to a weakened relationship with Christ.Finally, there are those who don't follow biblical financial principles yet believe their relationship with the Lord is just fine. To them, we might say, “What you don't know will hurt you. What are you missing out on?” If that's you, commit to the Lord in earnest prayer and follow through by managing your money and possessions according to His principles.Take the Next StepIf you're ready to align your finances with your faith, start by downloading the free FaithFi app. It will help you set up a budget based on the envelope system and provide you with the best Christian financial content to grow closer to God. Commit to following His financial principles for three months and see if your relationship with the Lord becomes more intimate.Aligning your finances with God's Word is not just about managing money; it's about deepening your relationship with Christ. By faithfully stewarding the resources God has given you, you'll experience the true riches of a closer walk with Him.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:My kids are buying their first home, and I've offered to help them with the closing costs. Is giving them a loan or a gift better? What are the tax implications of each option?I just retired about three weeks ago, and I have a mortgage balance left on my house of about $26,000 with a 15-year term. We've been making extra payments, so we could pay it off in the next three years by continuing our regular payments. I have enough money in a Roth IRA to pay off the $26,000 mortgage. Should I keep the money in the Roth IRA or use it to pay off the mortgage?My daughter was in the hospital and had surgeries. The hospital pressured her to pay, so she paid the full balance with her credit card. Then she lost her job. Last week, we got a summons for her to appear in court because the credit card company is pursuing legal action. We just don't know what to do. Resources Mentioned:Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

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Navigating Faith in a Politically Divided World: The Challenges of Upholding Biblical Truth Today's episode will help us understand how to navigate faith and uphold biblical principles in a politically divided world, especially regarding LGBTQ issues. In this compelling episode, Bobby Harrington, point leader of RENEW.org, gathers with Daniel McCoy, John Whitaker, and special guest Guy Hammond to discuss how Christians can navigate their faith in a politically divided world. Guy Hammond, leader of the Strength in Weakness ministry, shares his personal journey from a former gay life to becoming a devout Christian and his challenges in maintaining his ministry amidst restrictive Canadian laws. The conversation delves into the significance of standing for biblical truth, the impact on church leaders and church environments, and what the future holds for Christian ethics, especially in areas like assisted suicide. This episode provides a sobering look at cultural and legal shifts impacting Christian practices and offers guidance on how to remain steadfast in faith. Get the Book on Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World: https://a.co/d/35XLxSE  Key Takeaways  00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:07 Guy Hammond's Background and Ministry 03:49 Challenges of Following Jesus in a Politically Divided World 04:50 Legal and Social Pressures in Canada 10:53 Broader Implications for Christians 20:30 Advice for Christians in the United States 26:57 Spiritual Impact of a Hostile Environment 28:03 Identifying the Real Enemy 29:35 Living Well as a Form of Resistance 32:15 Challenges in Church Leadership 33:24 Advice for Church Leaders 34:26 Creating a Welcoming Church Environment 36:04 Personal Journey to Faith 38:00 Support from Other Churches 39:48 Secularization and Opposition in Canada 41:40 Moving Operations to the United States 45:52 Assisted Suicide and Sanctity of Life 49:51 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement Check out RENEW.org for more articles and resources: https://renew.org/ View more information about this topic here: https://renew.org/product/following-jesus-in-a-politically-divided-world-an-interactive-guide-to-21-questions-on-christianity-and-politics/  In this podcast episode, Bobby Harrington leads a discussion with Guy Hammond, John Whittaker, and Daniel McCoy on navigating faith in a politically divided world. Bobby kicks things off by introducing his guests, all of whom play significant roles in their ministries, and sets the stage by acknowledging the challenging political and social landscape Christians face today. Guy Hammond, the Executive Director of "Strength in Weakness," shares his story of transitioning from an active gay lifestyle to a committed Christian life, during which he has abstained from homosexual activity for nearly 40 years. His ministry now supports Christians dealing with unwanted same-sex attractions and their families. Guy also discusses the broader cultural and political changes in Canada, where traditional Christian beliefs are increasingly dismissed as myths. He warns that the U.S. could face a similar path if these trends continue. Bobby then points out the sharp decline in church attendance in Canada, comparing it to the 1960s when more Canadians attended church regularly than Americans. He sees this decline as part of a broader cultural shift away from Christian values. In response to Daniel McCoy's questions, Guy reiterates the difficulties Christians face in upholding their beliefs amid political and social pressures. He advises against viewing LGBTQ individuals as enemies, urging Christians instead to focus on opposing ideologies that contradict biblical principles. John Whittaker connects the conversation to themes from First Peter, encouraging Christians to be known for doing good, even when misunderstood or maligned, aligning with Guy's idea that living well is a form of resistance and testimony. Guy also mentions that Muslim communities in Canada, like conservative Christians, are pushing back against liberal laws on sexuality and parental rights, showing that traditional values on these issues are not unique to Christianity. As the episode concludes, Guy highlights resources from his ministry, including a documentary about his life, "Finding Guy," which serves as an educational tool for Christians dealing with LGBTQ issues. The conversation wraps up with reflections on the spiritual challenges of living in a politically charged environment. Interested in more content from RENEW? Sign up for our newsletter: https://renew.org/resources/newsletter-sign-up/  Follow us!         

Hello beautiful souls! After years of trying out countless diets and programs, I finally found one that really works for me. Nettie Novellie, a Holistic Practitioner and Certified Health and Metabolic Balance Coach, has guided me—and so many others—on this incredible wellness journey. For the first time, I genuinely feel like I'm eating for my health, wellness, and energy. It's not just about the food—my body truly feels different, vibrant, and alive in ways I never expected. Today, Nettie is back on the podcast to share her insights and share a holistic approach to nourishing your body and mind.   To learn more about Nettie Novelli's work: https://www.nettienovelli.com/   Start your wellness journey on October 15, 2024 and be one of the Wellionnaire Angels!   [IG] @nettienovelli   ▶️ Click HERE to watch this episode on YouTube.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 4) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 8/25/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:5-6 Length: 57 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 4) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 8/25/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:5-6 Length: 57 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 4) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday Service Date: 8/25/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:5-6 Length: 57 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 2) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1-2 Length: 49 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 2) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1-2 Length: 49 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 2) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1-2 Length: 49 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 2) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/11/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1-2 Length: 49 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 1) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/4/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1 Length: 50 min.

A new MP3 sermon from Grace Baptist Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: The Submissive Character and Spiritual Impact of a Holy Wife (Part 1) Subtitle: 1 Peter Speaker: Nicholas Claxton Broadcaster: Grace Baptist Church Event: Sunday - AM Date: 8/4/2024 Bible: 1 Peter 3:1 Length: 50 min.

The impact of abuse touches every part of who we are and has a profound impact on our relationship and view of God especially when our abuser was a spiritual leader.

Scripture and Spiritual Impact in Latin America with Russell Stendal Learn about the Bible translating process, the powerful insights uncovered from the Hebrew and Greek texts, and the profound impact the Jubilee Bible has had on believers in Colombia and Venezuela. Hosts Mark Stafford and SOM International CEO David Witt join Russell Stendal, the editor of the Jubilee Bible, for part two of this series. Russell discusses the significance of key terms and how a deeper understanding of these words sheds light on the core messages of transformation, grace, and spiritual growth. Also, David highlights the far-reaching impact of the Jubilee Bible, particularly in the Latin American region. Hear firsthand accounts of how this translation and the accompanying commentaries have led to remarkable growth and change. The engagement and empowerment of believers, exemplified by the surge in new conversions and the multiplier effect on churches, underscores the profound influence of Scripture. The Jubilee Bible and other resources by Russell Stendal are available at sombookstore.com. To donate Bibles for Venezuela, see spiritofmartyrdom.com/biblesforvenezuela.

Psalm 78 Blank Outline Completed Outline The post Making a Generational Spiritual Impact appeared first on Community Bible Church.

Today we talk about the concept of calorie restriction and its potential effects on longevity. We discuss the scientifically observed benefits of calorie restriction in lab mice, such as increased resilience to toxins and faster recovery from injuries, and ponder whether these benefits translate to humans. We engage in a spirited debate over various dietary philosophies, including intermittent fasting, the influence of breakfast on daily eating patterns, and the impact of processed foods on health. The discussion also touches on personal experiences with dieting, the cultural norms around meal frequency, and the challenge of adopting healthier eating habits amidst contrasting nutritional theories and industry interests. The episode wraps up with reflections on the importance of diet quality and the potential spiritual and quality-of-life enhancements that may come from thoughtful eating practices. 00:00 Welcome to the Smarticle Podcast: A Unique Take on Articles 00:40 Diving Into the Debate: Can Eating Less Extend Your Life? 01:36 Exploring the Science and Skepticism Behind Calorie Restriction 02:00 Intermittent Fasting: Personal Experiences and Theories 02:18 The Cultural and Historical Context of Eating Habits 09:26 The Journey of Intermittent Fasting and Lifestyle Changes 13:59 Concluding Thoughts: The Personal and Spiritual Impact of Diet Choices Could Eating Less Help You Live Longer? smarticlepodcast@gmail.com #intermittentfasting #diet #fastingdiet #health #eatingbetter #foodscience #smarticlepodcast #podcast #smarticle @Smarticleshow  @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast  https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/

Are you leveraging moments for spiritual leadership? Even those daily moments that you host and lead? — A devotional by Vince Miller.

Episode Summary: Have you ever fasted from sugar? In this podcast replay, Wendy Speake and I talk about the benefits of a sugar fast. Wendy is the author of The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation. You won't want to miss the insights Wendy shares on breaking free from sugar addiction for lasting spiritual transformation. Some of the benefits may surprise you! Mark your calendar: Wendy is hosting an online 40-day sugar fast beginning 1-2-2024.   Quotables from the Episode: Unfortunately, no sugar fix can fix you. When we stop going from sugar high to sugar high, we turn to the Most High. The goal of fasting is always to lay down that which is temporary and pick up that which is eternal. Let every hunger pain act like church bells calling you to pray. Fasting from anything reminds us of what we want to hunger for. When we run to things to satisfy, they hold us back from His strong hold on us. Trust God to do what he's going to do before he does it. Shout the victory in advance, obey, and watch what God does with your submission. Take out the temptation before tempted. The first step, before fasting, seek first the kingdom of God. He will change our health with a diet, but our life with a fast. Our desire is to find Christ as the only option. When we turn to Him to be our joy and peace, we don't need the sugar. Fasting is about turning away from anything that gets between our relationship with God, and turning back to Him. Sometimes you need to go fast in order to slow down. The power of fasting is stopping and watching God deliver us. Fasting opens the door for the supernatural work of God. Keep in mind, with fasting, this is going to hurt before it feels better. Fasting isn't easy—this is just the brand of your hard in this season. As you seek Him first, He'll transform other areas of your life as well, bringing renewed hope. Scripture References: Psalm 34:8-10 NIV “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you his holy people, for those who fear him lack nothing. The Lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who see the Lord lack no good thing.” Jonah 2:8 “Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from God's love for them.” Matthew 6:33 “These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.” Joel 2:12 “That is why the Lord says, ‘Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning.'” Jeremiah 15:16 “Your words were found, and I ate them, and your words became to me a joy and the delight of my heart.”   Recommended Resources:  The 40-Day Feast: Taste and See the Goodness of God's Word by Wendy Speake The 40-Day Social Media Fast: Exchange Your Online Distraction for Real-Life Devotion By Wendy Speake The 40-Day Sugar Fast: Where Physical Detox Meets Spiritual Transformation by Wendy Speake The 40-Day Fast Journal: A Journey to Spiritual Transformation by Wendy Speake Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses by Wendy Speake Parenting Scripts: When What You're Saying Isn't Working, Say Something New by Wendy Speake A New Year's Revolution: The 40 Day Sugar Fast It's Time for a Social Media Fast Benefits of Taking a Break from Social Media – Episode 85 The Hem of His Garment: Reaching Out to God When Pain Overwhelms by Dr. Michelle Bengtson YouVersion 5-Day Devotional Reaching Out To God When Pain Overwhelms   Today is Going to be a Good Day: 90 Promises to Start Your Day Off Right by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the AWSA 2023 Inspirational Gift Book of the Year Award, the Christian Literary Awards Reader's Choice Award in four categories, and the Christian Literary Awards Henri Award for Devotionals YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be a Good Day YouVersion 7-Day Devotional, Today is Going to be Another Good Day Breaking Anxiety's Grip: How to Reclaim the Peace God Promises by Dr. Michelle Bengtson Breaking Anxiety's Grip Free Study Guide Free 7-Day YouVersion Bible Reading Plan for Breaking Anxiety's Grip Hope Prevails: Insights from a Doctor's Personal Journey Through Depression by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Hope Prevails Bible Study by Dr. Michelle Bengtson, winner of the Christian Literary Award Reader's Choice Award Trusting God Through Cancer 1 Trusting God Through Cancer 2 Revive & Thrive Women's Conference Subdue Stress and Anxiety: Fifteen Experts Offer Comprehensive Tools in Ten Minutes a Day. Use my link plus discount code BENG99 to save $90 on course (course will be $99.) Free Download: How To Fight Fearful/Anxious Thoughts and Win   Social Media Links for Host and Guest: Connect with Wendy Speake: Website / Feast Book / Facebook / Instagram Order  Book Today is Going to be a Good Day / Order Book Breaking Anxiety's Grip / Order Book Hope Prevails  /  Website  /  Blog  /  Facebook / Twitter (@DrMBengtson)  /  LinkedIn  /  Instagram / Pinterest / YouTube   Guest: Wendy Speake is author and host of The 40-Day Sugar Fast, The 40-Day Social Media Fast, along with the companion resource, The 40-Day Fast Journal. Her newest book, The 40-Day Feast, invites readers to get hungry for God's Word then equips them to taste and see how good it is. Wendy is also co-author of the popular parenting books, Triggers: Exchanging Parents' Angry Reactions for Gentle Biblical Responses and Parenting Scripts.   Hosted By: Dr. Michelle Bengtson Audio Technical Support: Bryce Bengtson    

Join me for a great podcast episode today where I have a conversation with Wayne Pascall about the spiritual impact of art.Want to thrive as an artist in God's Kingdom? Download the free, 26-page Thriving Christian Artist Starter Kit here: https://thrive.matttommeymentoring.com/starterkitFor more about Wayne and the great work he's doing, visit http://www.waynepascallart.com and find his book Christian Art: A Celebration of its Spiritual Impact on Amazon.

How about we have a conversation with one of the most spiritually influential living people on earth? Yes, you heard that right! Today's guest was bestowed with this honor by Watkins MindBodySpirit, and if that's not impressive enough, AgeNation awarded him a Life Achievement Award. Today, we have the incredible privilege of sitting down with a true luminary in the world of spirituality, health, and resilience. His name is Mark Nepo, and he's not just an authority on spiritual matters and poetry; he's a living testament to the power of the human spirit.Mark is no stranger to adversity; he's a cancer survivor who has weathered life's storms and authored dozens of books, including The Book of Awakening and Surviving Storms: Finding the Strength to Meet Adversity. In essence, he's a true badass in resilience, and we're here to delve into the fusion of science, health, and spirituality with a master of all these realms.Mark's new book, Falling Down and Getting Up: Discovering Your Inner Resilience and Strength, is a profound exploration of how we can navigate life's challenges with acceptance and resilience. Throughout our conversation, we'll touch on the transformative impact of Mark's battle with cancer, the wisdom he's gleaned from our elders, the profound insights from indigenous healing traditions, and the incredible power of building resilience through pain. So, fasten your seatbelts, dear listeners, because this is a conversation that promises to touch your soul and leave you with valuable nuggets of wisdom for your own journey.(02:11) The Spiritual Impact of Overcoming Cancer in His Early 30s(10:05) How Our Beliefs Influence Our Reality(21:14) Navigating the Choice Between Love & Fear(27:11) The Invaluable Impact of Our Teachers & Healers(37:14) How To Face Failure & Build Resilience(47:44) Navigating the Deeper Teachers of Fear, Pain & Grief(01:01:36) Unlock Your Inner WisdomResourcesDave Asprey's NEW Book ‘Smarter Not Harder' is out now: https://daveasprey.com/books Website: marknepo.comRead: Falling Down and Getting Up by Mark NepoInstagram: @mark_nepoYouTube: Mark NepoFacebook: @MarkNepoOprah's Review: oprah.comThe Human Upgrade is produced by Crate Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Guest Bios Show Transcript Third-party investigations have become increasingly common as churches and Christian institutions continue to be rocked by scandal. But how can you tell if an investigation is truly independent—or just another attempt to cover up?   In this edition of The Roys Report, experts address the red flags and key features to look for in any so-called “independent” investigation. And they answer questions like: Can a third-party investigation by a law firm ever be truly independent? What advantages are there to hiring an investigative team that's familiar with church culture to conduct investigations involving Christian institutions? And what are the hallmarks of a “trauma-informed” investigation? The answers to these questions are especially relevant due to the current controversy over the third-party investigation announced by the International House of Prayer in Kansas City, or IHOPKC. Mike Bickle, IHOPKC's founder, has been accused of abusing multiple women and IHOPKC leaders have been accused of mishandling reports of abuse. After announcing it had hired a national law firm to conduct the investigation, IHOPKC changed course and dismissed the law firm. Then, it hired another law firm, but is refusing to divulge the name of the new firm.  Joining us on the podcast is a top American litigator and former GoDaddy general counsel, who's also a Christian with a passion to protect victims. That litigator is Christine Jones, who also serves on the board of The Roys Report. She has considerable expertise in this area and her insights on this issue are incredibly helpful. Two other experts joining me, Pete Singer and Robert Peters, are known for the organization they lead—Godly Response to Abuse in a Christian Environment, or GRACE. GRACE has become the gold standard in the Christian survivor community because of the quality of its investigations and its commitment to protect survivor interests.  Listen now for a lively, and eye-opening discussion that will help you discern whether to trust a third-party investigation—or to cry foul. Guests Christine N. Jones Christine N. Jones is a top American litigator, business executive, and civic leader who has a passion to protect the vulnerable. Until 2012, she served as general counsel for GoDaddy. During her time there, she helped drive federal Internet-related legislation, including laws to keep the internet safe from child predators like the Protect Our Children Act and the Keeping the Internet Devoid of Sexual Predators Act. Christine also practiced law at Beus Gilbert, which has been ranked as one of the top law firms in the country. She also served several years as the COO of the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Christine recently launched her own firm, Newman Jones, a private law firm in Arizona, which specializes in representing victims of abuse in churches and Christian organizations. Pete Singer Pete Singer is Executive Director at GRACE, which focuses on abuse prevention and response in faith communities. He is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with 30+ years' experience across settings. He received his MSW and certificate in Trauma-Effective Leadership from the University of Minnesota. He trains and writes on trauma-informed practice and his counseling practice focuses on children and adults who have experienced trauma. He has published and contributed to a number of articles and book chapters including Wounded Souls: The Need for Child Protection Professionals and Faith Leaders to Recognize and Respond to the Spiritual Impact of Child Abuse and forthcoming work Toward a More Trauma-Informed Church: Equipping Faith Communities to Prevent and Respond to Abuse. Robert Peters Robert Peters has been with GRACE over 10 years and is currently the Director of Institutional Response, where he oversees all investigations and assessments. He served as an Assistant Prosecuting Attorney and Special Prosecutor in multiple West Virginia jurisdictions, where he specialized in the prosecution of sexual offenses, civil child abuse and neglect, and online child exploitation. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals. Visit netgrace.org Show Transcript SPEAKERSCHRISTINE JONES, PETER SINGER, Julie Roys, ROBERT PETERS Julie Roys  00:05Third party investigations have become increasingly common as churches and Christian institutions continue to be rocked by scandal. But how can you tell if an investigation is truly independent, or just another attempt to cover up? Welcome to The Roys Report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys. And our topic today has become a big issue because an organization facing a major scandal just hired a law firm to conduct its third-party investigation. That organization is the International House of Prayer in Kansas City or IHOP. And if you’ve been following this story, you know that IHOP founder, Mike Bickle, has been accused of abusing multiple women and IHOP itself has been accused in mishandling multiple reports of abuse. The Roys Report has published several articles about this scandal. So, if you need some background on the story, I encourage you to go to JULIEROYS.COM, and then click on the investigations tab, and you can find all those stories on IHOP.**   Julie Roys  01:05 But joining me today to discuss these issues is a top American litigator who’s also a Christian with a passion to protect victims. That litigator is Christine Jones, who also serves on the board of The Roys Report. And she has so much expertise in this area. So, I’m very excited to pick her brain on this issue. But also joining me are Pete Singer and Robert Peters of Godly Repose to Abuse in a Christian Environment or GRACE. GRACE has become the gold standard in the Christian survivor community because of the quality of its investigations and its commitment to protect survivor interests. So, I’m very excited about today’s podcast.**   Julie Roys  01:45 But before we dive in, I’d like to thank the sponsors of this podcast, Judson University, and Marquardt of Barrington. If you’re looking for a top ranked Christian University, providing a caring community and an excellent college experience, Judson University is for you. Judson is located on 90 acres just 40 miles west of Chicago in Elgin, Illinois. The school offers more than 60 majors, great leadership opportunities and strong financial aid. Plus, you can take classes online as well as in person. Judson University is shaping lives that shaped the world. For more information, just go to JUDSONU.EDU. Also, if you’re looking for a quality new or used car, I highly recommend my friends at Marquardt of Barrington. Marquardt is a Buick GMC dealership where you can expect honesty, integrity, and transparency. That’s because the owners there Dan and Kurt Marquardt are men of integrity. To check them out just go to BUYACAR123.COM.**   Julie Roys  02:49 Well again joining me today are Pete Singer and Robert Peters from GRACE which stands for  Godly Repose to Abuse in a Christian Environment  And GRACE is one of the most respected organizations in the Christian survivor community when it comes to independent investigations. And I’m really looking forward to talking with them and getting a behind the scenes look about how these investigations are done. But first, I’d like to introduce Christine Jones. Christine is a top litigator, business executive, and civic leader who has a passion to protect the vulnerable. Until 2012. she served as general counsel for GoDaddy. She also practice law at BS Gilbert, which has been ranked as one of the top law firms in the country. And she recently launched her own firm Newman Jones, a private law firm in Phoenix, Arizona. But her greatest claim to fame by far is serving as a board member for The Roys Report. So, Christine, welcome. I’m so glad you could join us.   CHRISTINE JONES  03:43 Thank you, Julie. So great to be here. And that is by far my best claim to fame for the record.   Julie Roys  03:48 Absolutely. I’m glad that you clarified that. So, Christine, I wanted to talk to you first because there’s been a lot of buzz lately about law firms conducting third party investigations. And this is nothing new, Ravi Zacharias International Ministries. For example, when they did their investigation, they brought in a law firm Miller Martin, there was a law firm Husch Blackwell, that investigated Cedarville University after it hired a known sexual predator that was a couple of years ago. But right now, the International House of Prayer in Kansas City IHOP is facing a major crisis. So IHOP has just announced that they’re going to do a third-party investigation, and they initially hired a law firm Stinson LLP, to conduct this investigation, but there’s been a lot of pushback because there are a lot of people saying that no investigation by a law firm is truly independent. Well, then last Friday evening, IHOP announced that it had decided not to proceed with Stinson. And the reason that IHOP gave was that third parties claiming to represent the victims had communicated a lack of trust in Stinson. So now IHOP is said that it’s hired a local law firm to investigate, but when I asked IHOP to identify the law firm Lenny LaGuardia, a member of IHOP’s executive team replied, and I quote, We will not be publishing her name out of respect for her privacy. When I asked an additional clarifying question about the attorney, LaGuardia responded, IHOP, KC will not be providing any personal information about its attorneys, they are not the story and you should know better, unquote. So, Christine, say hypothetically, that one of the alleged victims of Mike Bickle is your client. Would you advise your client to cooperate with this investigation?   CHRISTINE JONES  05:35 So setting aside the attorney independence for one moment, I would say , all else being equal, if you have some information that’s germane to the discussion, then you know, and you’re not being re traumatized or re victimized and you have the capacity to do it, probably, I would advise them to go ahead and give the information because that is going to be helpful to the outcome, the recommendations or you know, whatever the third party investigator is doing. Now, I have to say that with a caveat, as always, these people may be bound by preexisting contractual relationships that limit what they can say. And in that case, they should probably seek the counsel of an attorney before they do that.   Julie Roys  06:14 So, the fact that the attorney isn’t being named to the public, do you see that as a major problem?   CHRISTINE JONES  06:21 Well, this entire scene has unfolded in such an unusual way. And I have followed a little bit of the back and forth on social media. Stinson, a well-respected law firm being named actually probably was positive, because they do have such a good reputation in the legal community, I don’t know that they had a previous attorney client relationship with IHOP. So that could have at least set a path for them to have independence in this scenario. But here’s the thing, not disclosing who the lawyer is for the sake of protecting the lawyer’s privacy is a very unusual suggestion. And the answer that you got on that inquiry is puzzling to me, because the attorney’s privacy is not the issue here. So, I hate to use the word excuse, Julie. But it does sound to me like they’re just using that as a cover up for their own lack of transparency in this process.   Julie Roys  07:16 Well, the lawyer is the professional, I mean, this is their job, their public, it does seem like a very odd response. development that happened over the weekend is that Ben Anderson, who I guess is a former IHOP staff member, posted on Facebook, the name of the person he believes is the attorney that’s been hired by IHOP. I have tried to confirm it again, went to IHOP. And they will not confirm or deny that this person is the person but the person that he has named publicly on Facebook is friends, apparently with IHOP executive leadership. And apparently, after he posted some social media posts showing this relationship, this attorney deleted her Facebook account and some social media. So, it does seem to be a little fishy, what’s going on. But let’s say that this person is the person but again, we’re not able to determine for sure whether or not that’s true. If somebody is friends with the executive leadership, if perhaps and I guess there’s some indications that she may actually attend IHOP’s church Forerunner, essentially, if that’s the case, correct me if I’m wrong, has it moved from being a third party independent or some semblance of independent investigation? Now we’re really looking at an internal investigation?   CHRISTINE JONES  08:39 Well, let’s talk about the investigation itself before we get to the crux of that question. An attorney could conceivably conduct an independent investigation. Here’s the rub; any attorney client relationship comes with the fiduciary duty that the attorney owes to the client. And look, if this attorney doesn’t want to disclose the fact of the engagement because the attorney feels like in their ethical opinion, that would violate some kind of fiduciary responsibility that they have, that’s their decision. The client certainly can disclose it. But getting back to the independence. The issue here is I was gonna say it’s twofold. It’s actually three-fold. Here, if you have a relationship that’s existing with the executives, it’d be very difficult to claim you have independence on this particular issue. You may even be a percipient witness, you may even be a fact witness, which is a huge red flag for any attorney going into any kind of engagement.   The second thing is if you have this existing attorney client relationship, it’s almost impossible to conduct an independent investigation because you are already required to demonstrate a duty of loyalty to the client, which is the antithesis of independence. It is the exact opposite of independence. No client wants their attorney to be independent of them. That’s why you hire an attorney, right? So, let’s just say it’s a generic person, we don’t know who they are, any lawyer out there, pick a name. If they had that existing relationship, and they have a hope of a relationship in the future, they’re already making money from this client, and they hope to make money from the client in the future, it would be virtually impossible under the ethical rules for them to be considered independent in this investigation.   Now, if it’s a huge law firm, they have hundreds of lawyers in different cities, you know, could one department do the investigation, another department do the advising? Possibly, but that certainly doesn’t seem to be the case here. And it strikes me that IHOP getting rid of Stinson is them backtracking. They’re getting themselves dug into a deeper hole here that they were even in before. They’re not improving their situation, they’re making it worse,   Julie Roys  10:59 Good points that you brought up. I mean, the fiduciary responsibility the lawyer has to its client, and then the possibility of, you know, some sort of relationship in the future, obviously complicating things, and this is why in the very beginning, people were like, Oh, my goodness, they hired a law firm. And what a lot of people were asking for was an organization like GRACE, Godly Repose to Abuse in a Christian Environment, who plays by very different rules. And again, they’re going to be joining us in just a bit and we’ll hear about what they do that is different. But is there ever a situation in which we can say this is truly an independent investigation when you’re being hired by the organization that you’re investigating?   CHRISTINE JONES  10:59 I guess it’s possible. If you had an engagement that had a well-defined set of terms, and your role was only to determine a set of facts. Issue a report that said, here’s the timeline on this date, at this time, in this place, this proper noun did the following. And you just gave the report with no recommendation, no observation, no characterization, no coloring of the facts, you could conceivably be independent. It would always be the client’s decision about whether those findings would be released. It’s a really tricky situation for the finest law firm in the best circumstances. Somebody who has a preexisting relationship, which I understand if the lawyer is who we think it is, is in a really precarious position, claiming that they’re independent, and that their findings are going to be completely objective.   Julie Roys  12:34 So, a little over a week ago, Michael Brown, Dr. Michael Brown spoke at IHOP. And he announced that there was going to be this independent investigation. And Michael is someone who’s very well respected within the charismatic community. And again, IHOP-KC is a charismatic organization. So, I think they were bringing in someone who would be a trusted voice. And so, he argued that the Christian community could trust this investigation, because IHOP had pledged to make these findings public. And again, I know with RZIM, when they were doing the Miller Martin investigation that was the crux right for them was whether or not they were going to make these findings public. I don’t know if that’s still on the table, to be honest, given that things have changed. But let’s assume that it is and IHOP is going to make the findings public. I guess the question is, even when they make the findings public are we talking the complete findings? Is this a redacted finding? Is this the part of the findings you want us to know? I mean, is this really much of an assurance that the findings are going to be public? Or would we still say, you know, as the public looking to get some assurance that this is really been investigated, that we can trust what they’re reporting?   CHRISTINE JONES  13:46 It’s tricky, right? Unless you had actual recordings of conversations, and maybe you had a third-party observer sitting in on those conversations and hearing the results of the investigatory process, it would be almost impossible to say, Now, I don’t want to bad mouth Mr. Brown, you know, reputationally, he’s an upstanding guy. But we’re not judging his statement here. What we’re saying is, lawyers are humans, and humans have bias. And if I’m a victim, I’m a survivor, or I come forward or even I’m a close associate of one or I’ve been part of this community for a long time., and I know somebody who is, I’m still going to have to question, did that human who is a lawyer, conduct this in a way that I can rely on the findings? I will never know because I will never know what the process was that they used. And I already know, particularly if this lawyer is part of the church, but I will already know that they have gone into it with a preset bias that will make it very difficult for them not to filter their conversations and their findings through their preexisting relationship.   Julie Roys  14:59 And one thing I didn’t mention I mean, which you’ve hinted at, I mean, there is an engagement and a letter of engagement that’s signed between the client and the law firm. Is it ever okay to release that letter of engagement? And also, I know, for example, the Southern Baptist Convention when the executive committee was being investigated, they actually waived under a great deal of pressure, their attorney client privilege. Is that something that we could expect or should expect in a situation like this?   CHRISTINE JONES  15:30 That’s a really interesting question. And here, it’s probably not going to be the same outcome as what we saw on the SBC, which as you said was exceptional. The client owns that privilege, the client gets to pick whether the privilege is waived. Here, the motivation for IHOP to give more information is probably well, I mean, it’s going to be tricky for them, right? Because anything that they find that’s derogatory, they’re gonna be less inclined to disclose it, right? We don’t have the power, sort of as third parties who don’t have privity to this contract, to require them to disclose it. Could there be some community pressure, either by survivors or by members of the community, like what we saw in the SBC? I suppose it’s possible. But even let’s say that they produce the engagement letter. Let’s say they sent it to you, and you published it. Let’s say they gave us the entire report, right? It’s still gonna come with the names of minors redacted, it’s probably still going to have some information that’s viewed as relevant to a criminal investigation or, you know, somehow protective of victims' rights redacted. So, will you ever see the entirety of it? You know, as I sit here today, I would say probably not.   Julie Roys  16:46 Yeah. Well, we will see as the story continues to unfold, but Christine really appreciate you being willing to come on and lend your expertise, which has just been such a blessing to The Roys. Report, and to our listeners today, as well. So, thank you so much.   CHRISTINE JONES  17:01 My pleasure. And can we say one last thing in conclusion? Just in case anybody from IHOP-KC is listening to this podcast? IHOP, hire an independent third party to do this investigation. Let them find out what the facts were and hire a separate counsel to give you the advice on what to do with it. Why cloud the perception of what’s going on here? If you want to clean your house, clean your house and do it well.   Julie Roys  17:25 Thank you. And I would second those thoughts. Appreciate that so much.   CHRISTINE JONES  17:29 Thanks for having me, Julie.   Julie Roys  17:31 Absolutely. Well, now, Peter Singer, and Robert Peters are going to join us from GRACE. And Pete is the executive director of GRACE and a licensed clinical social worker with about 30 years of experience. He also has a master’s degree in social work and a certificate in trauma effective leadership from the University of Minnesota. So, Pete, such a privilege to have you join me. Thanks so much.   PETER SINGER  17:55 Thank you. It’s great to be here. Really appreciate the chance, Julie.   Julie Roys  17:59 And also joining me is Robert Peters, who oversees all investigations and assessments at GRACE. He formerly served as an assistant prosecuting attorney and special prosecutor in several jurisdictions in West Virginia. And in that capacity, he specialized in the prosecution of sexual offences, child abuse and neglect, and online child exploitation. So, Robert, so glad to have you on The Roys Report podcast. And I think, as I mentioned earlier, that I think this is the first time we’ve had two lawyers on our podcast. So welcome.   ROBERT PETERS  18:32 Great to be here. And I hope we don’t break any podcast length records unless you’re going for that. In which case, you’re welcome.   Julie Roys  18:39 So, GRACE has become, and I mentioned this before, sort of the gold standard when it comes to investigations. And that’s quite a badge of honor for you guys. And I know, it’s not just the investigations, but also the manner in which you treat victims. And that has given you a distinction among the survivor community. Right now, there is a petition circulating and I know you don’t want to comment on this, but there is a petition circulating urging IHOP hire GRACE to conduct its investigation because of, I think, the respect that you have within this community. What is unique with what you do? And let’s start with your expertise, because you focus specifically on investigations involving churches and Christian organizations. Pete talk about that, and how that perspective is perhaps different from a lot of organizations like a law firm, but even some other organizations that do similar type investigations, but not in this kind of space, but more normally in more of a corporate space.   PETER SINGER  19:42 Sure, really, really important things that come into play here. A big piece of that is an understanding the criteria that we’re looking at, isn’t just what does the law say? Yes, that is a very, very significant piece of criteria. But beyond that, we’re also looking at what is God saying? And at times, it can be very difficult for a law firm or other private investigative agency as part of the investigation to also do a theological review. And to say, Okay, let’s look at what happened here. And now we’ll examine that in light of Scripture. And one of the things that I think is unique about the way that GRACE does an investigation, is that GRACE brings in an incredible, incredible experience. Our investigators come from a background similar to what Robert is bringing in his background or from extensive law enforcement experience. They’re also bringing in that theological experience. They’re also bringing the understanding and the familiarity with church culture, church governance. For example, when we do a report associated with, let’s just say, a Presbyterian Church that might be governed by the Book of Church Order, we’ve got people on staff who are experts in the Book of Church Order, and we can specifically craft recommendations that fit within the Book of Church Order. And so being able to pull in that experience, as well as an understanding of what Scripture says about this. Because scripture is not silent on this; Scripture speaks so often of the Scripture sayings., In First Samuel, that Hophni and Phinehas, the sons of Eli who was the high priest of the tent. Hasni and Phineas were acting as priests in Israel. Scripture calls them worthless men. Why? Because they used their position of spiritual authority to have sex with people. Scripture is calling out clergy sexual abuse.**   PETER SINGER  21:53 And then we’ll fast forward to the New Testament, and we’ve got Jesus calling out against child sexual abuse, anything that would harm a child, against elder abuse, against financial exploitation, against spiritual abuse. So a GRACE team brings in both that incredible legal background, similar to what Robert has, or many of the people who have been in law enforcement on our team have. But then an ability to blend that with what does scripture say? And what do we know about trauma? We have many, many published articles from people at GRACE, whether they’re our investigators, people on our leadership team, people on our board of directors that help explain the very nature of trauma and trauma informed practice. And we’ve got an article coming out at the end of the year that will be published in Currents in Theology and Mission, theology journal, that will be taking six key principles of trauma informed practice and saying, what does that look like when it’s applied in a church? When GRACE or an organization like GRACE comes in to do an investigation, that is all automatically a part of the analysis of this situation. And for an organization that does not have that deep embedded background within the Christian culture within churches, how are they going to be able to bring in and analyze the situation in light of Scripture? How are they going to be able to blend trauma informed practice and Scripture? And how are they going to bring those excellent qualifications like Robert has and the members of his team,   Julie Roys  23:44 Great points that you’re making, and I can relate as a journalist who works exclusively in the Christian space. And I’ve also worked in secular newsrooms. And it’s interesting when I did work in secular newsrooms, how much they misunderstood the language, or they misunderstood the culture, and they just weren’t able to report properly. And frankly, Christians didn’t trust them, because they didn’t know, they didn’t understand, they would misinterpret things. For me as a reporter, it’s hugely important that I understand spiritual abuse, for example, to understand how these communities work, as far as you know, a lot of these folks, it’s not like a work environment where you go, and then you come home, and you have your family and your community. This is their family and their community often. There is no leaving in many ways, and it encompasses all areas of their life. And so, I do think that having we call it a beat in journalism, I mean, you know, your beat, you know, really, really well and you understand the culture, you understand the people. I think the same thing sounds like what you’re saying is what GRACE is doing with investigations in this space.**   Julie Roys  24:48 Let’s talk about the independence and objectivity because Christine was talking a lot about that. You know, law firms obviously have a fiduciary responsibility to their clients, but you’re hired by clients. And again, I’m looking at this as a journalist. I can’t even have you buy me lunch; I can take no money from you. I’ve been offered numerous times, hey, we’ll fly you out to interview or flight. And I’m like, well, if I’m going to do the story, you can’t fly me out, you can’t do anything for me, and you can’t put me up, I need to come on my own dime, which is hard to say, because we have such a limited budget and stories we’d like to cover, right? But for us, if we take money, we’re not objective, right? I mean, that’s how strict it is for journalists in this space. So, I mean, talk about that, because you’re obviously being hired by organizations that you do investigations on,. How does that not make you beholden to your client?   ROBERT PETERS  25:38 The two-word answer would be structural independence. And that’s really critical of the contractual phase,. You know, in the discussions that we have with churches, where those discussions either prove to be fruitful or not, that’s the crucible. That’s where these things tend to either solidify, either grudgingly or smoothly to an independent investigation, or where they tend to flame out spectacularly. So, it really varies. And what I mean by structural independence, you know, and these are good questions that the perhaps survivors should be asking, before participating in any investigation, frankly, not just those that are undertaken by law firms. But yeah, what sort of is going into that? Is there some sort of those fiduciary pieces is there an attorney client relationship. We are not a law firm; we don’t provide legal services. So, we’re not coming into some of the same ethical obligations. I am an attorney, but I don’t function as an attorney within GRACE, or anything related to GRACE. So, there’s that piece of it, where we’re just sort of structurally ethically different and legally different.**   ROBERT PETERS  26:40 But then there’s contractual independence and the nature of the contract itself. No one sets a limit on the amount of interviews that we have. We may have estimates based on the facts that are presented to us by churches we’re having discussions with, but we’re very clear and the contracts provide for it. That’s ultimately an investigative determination of even the number of interviews. And so that becomes complicated right financially. Because certainly, we do need to pay our employees and contractors for the work, we want to continue equipping the church and equipping survivors, that takes resources. But we also want to make sure that we have maximum discretion in order that we don’t have those sort of perverse incentives and threads, bold and leveraged in ways that are unproductive to justice, that are unproductive to transparency. So, things like disclaiming those pieces expressly, but also ensuring that we have that type of discretion. Additionally, also at the risk of being inflammatory, GRACE is not a mud flap. And there are entities that sometimes unfortunately operate as mud flaps, meaning they direct the dirt into particular locations. They put emphasis of culpability on particular locations. And isn’t it interesting how that tends to align with the priorities of the individuals that are paying the bills? GRACE is not a mud flap. And so, when it comes to the other report drafting process itself, we do accept feedback, both from designated members of church leadership, as well as reporting victims. They always receive a copy of this report during the embargo period where we’re accepting feedback,. That feedback is limited to a few specific areas, that feedback is limited to is there something that’s factually inaccurate, not something I don’t like, we do get that feedback. But the feedback we’ll consider is limited to something that’s factually inaccurate, something that’s inconsistent with the church theology or polity, because we want to be culturally informed as we’re conducting these investigations. And then is there something that’s overly Identifying in the reporting victim? Those are things that we want flagged in the event that this report is elected to be made public, either by the church or by reporting victims who also have discretion to make public. There’s sort of those structural pieces where the church is no longer in control of that piece. And there have been cases where we simply don’t get contracts because some cultures that unfortunately, don’t have that healthy view of power dynamics, and aren’t really understanding the importance of engaging in that hard work. And it is hard work. And it is vulnerable work. Sometimes churches don’t see that necessity or correctly see the risks of that approach, and ultimately get the client to move forward with this. On the other hand, some do bravely step into that. And it is a difficult process, but it’s ultimately a necessary process for survivors, and ultimately, for the well-being of the church.   Julie Roys  29:20 Let’s talk about the report because this is a really, really key part of GRACE. So often the report as for example, we mentioned Ravi Zacharias International Ministries when they employed Miller, Martin, there were a couple things. And one is the scope of the investigation, which initially was very narrow, but because there was a lot of media pressure, and I know we published a story the minute I got some documentation saying this was limited, very narrowly we published on it, and then it broadened right? And that’s the beauty of the pressure of the publicity. But also with Miller Martin, that report was given to RZIM and there, I know from talking to people, there was a battle as to whether or not to release that to the public. And ultimately, it was the board’s decision. But I know there was so much public pressure and that was released publicly the full report, which was I mean, like a bomb went off, right? I mean, that was huge. So, let’s talk about that with what you’re doing. There have been reports that you’ve done that haven’t been released to the public. But what you do is unique in that you don’t just release it to the organizations that’s paying you. But you release it to somebody else, as well. Talk about that.   PETER SINGER  30:38 It’s absolutely essential that that happens. It can’t just be the church, or ministry, that was the Sikh of the abuse. That can’t be the only person that holds the power of the report. Because that report is power. We specifically have in the contract that we do not assign the copyright of the report to anybody, which means that nobody has the ability to say you can’t publish that. And then often, there is a recommendation something to the effect of church leadership work with survivors to figure out the best way to distribute this.**   PETER SINGER  31:21 Now, GRACE used to have a relatively standard recommendation of distribute this. But then, several years ago, what happened was a survivor said, What are you doing? Now, everybody will know who I am. I, the survivor did not want that distributed. And so, once that situation occurred, we changed how we address that. So that we tell the church generally, work with the survivor to figure out how to distribute this because sometimes survivors don’t want it more public. And then it’s that balance between empowerment and safety.   Julie Roys  32:04 Yeah. And that that always is the attention; it’s definitely attention in what I do as well. You want to always have a survivor centered approach in the way that you move forward with these things. And here’s something that, again, would be what we’ve heard recently, and we reported recently with IHOP, is people coming forward reporting, and then being traumatized when they report. Being interrogated, being gaslit, being grilled from very much an, aren’t you lying? kind of perspective or doubting what they’re saying, very skeptical. How do you keep from being re traumatized as somebody who comes forward? And what assurance do they have that they’re not going to be re traumatized? Because a lot of these people have been burned multiple times. And do you see what you do as uniquely protective of survivors?   ROBERT PETERS  32:58 Yeah, that’s such a critical question, Julie, and there’s a lot of different layers, I think, to what it means to provide a safe environment for witnesses, particularly survivors of abuse. I think it’s worth noting, tragically, how rare it is, for professionals in the field of sexual abuse investigation itself, let alone what I would consider ancillary professionals, which is most attorneys to engage well in this context in a way that does not inflict further harm. And let me double down on that a little bit. So prior to coming on board at GRACE, I spent the past four years at Zero Abuse Project before that at the National White Collar Crime Center, training law enforcement and child abuse prosecutors in all 50 states. Regrettably, some of them are virtual, like Hawaii. I’m not bitter about that at all. But pandemics were great. But one thing I learned, first of all, there are some incredibly gifted professionals that work in these spaces. And so, I don’t want my next statement to undercut the fact that they’re absolute heroes working for very low wages, extremely hard work, giving themselves, expanding themselves sacrificially. So, this is not a statement about those individuals. But the other reality is that many, possibly most individuals in law enforcement and prosecution are not competent to handle these cases. That’s just the reality. I’m talking criminal context. They’re simply not. There is a high level of specialization, there’s a high level of training, a high level of skill in achieving competence, let alone excellence in conducting sexual assault and child abuse investigations. And that’s true in the civil context as well. There are so many moving parts when it comes to the complexity of trauma. When it comes to how do you question, when it comes to accurately identifying grooming behaviors, when it comes to even your posture with witnesses? How do you build rapport? There’s just a whole host of pieces. But the reality is that specialization breeds excellence. We know that’s true in medicine. We know that’s true in every other context. It's true in investigations as well. If you’re not constantly building up those skills, staying current on literature, staying current on tactics, you’re not going to be competent, you’re going to inflict further harm. And simply having a PhD or a JD doesn’t make that any less likely; it might make it more likely. And so, it really just depends. And again, once again, I want to be very clear, there are attorneys that do a phenomenal job, that I call for advice on a frequent basis when it comes to conducting investigations. But I think it takes a lot of caution and humility to say, simply by virtue of being a law firm, there’s a qualification here. There needs to be some careful scrutiny of what those qualifications are, what type of credentials do the individuals involved have when it comes to forensic interviewing? What are the relevant publications, right? What protocol of forensic interviewing do they utilize? There’s a great deal of expertise that comes into not inflicting further harm in these interviews. I think there’s also a posture of intentional integration of trauma informed principles is that's very much in the DNA that started with Bob Tchividjian. And now it has grown with Pete Singer, what he’s brought from the mental health care field, in terms of how we interact with all witnesses, but especially survivors of abuse.   PETER SINGER  36:08 As we head into these interviews, those trauma informed principles that Robert talked about, these are things, one that we’re going to evaluate the church on. And two that we’re going to evaluate ourselves on. How are we doing this in the continuance of an investigation? So, these are the principles that need to govern our interview. The first and foremost is safety, physical safety, psychological safety, spiritual safety. The second, as I mentioned before, trust worthiness and transparency. The third, peer support. As long as they’re not another witness, a witness or a victim can bring a support person with them. As long as they’re not somebody else that would be a witness, bring that person with you to provide support. The fourth principle is collaboration and mutuality. That means work together with the person that’s been harmed, work together within our own group or among those who are specialists here at GRACE, and work together outside of our group. So, for example, when we’re doing an international investigation, we bring in cultural consultants to help us understand that culture so that we don’t make cultural flubs. Then empowerment, voice, and choice. How are we empowering those who have been harmed? How are we giving their voice a platform so that it can be heard? And then the final principle is humility, in the face of historical, cultural and gender factors, which simply cannot be separated from the trauma.   Julie Roys  37:52 So good. You have done an investigation for IHOP in the past, and that investigation, as I understand, never became public. Is there anything that you can say to shed light on that investigation, or how that might impact your moving forward, if you didn’t move forward with IHOP?   PETER SINGER  38:16 Sure, what I can say is that it was a completed investigation. What I can say is that consistent with our practice, the church was given a copy of the report, and anyone identified as a reported victim was given a copy of the report. I can also say that nobody was told not to distribute the report by GRACE. I can say that there have been some situations where GRACE has done multiple investigations for organizations. So having completed an investigation previously, does not prohibit GRACE, as long as we don’t feel that there’s a conflict of interest. And we need to check to make sure that there isn’t a conflict of interest. And as long as that conflict of interest is not there, then we can do an additional investigation with organizations just generally speaking.   Julie Roys  39:04 Lastly, and you’ve touched on analysis already. And this is something where I will say I’ve read a lot of these reports. GRACE’s analysis is usually something that I feel is insightful and is helpful. And because you guys get the culture and you get how abuse work, you get how cover ups work, you get all that stuff. I found those extremely helpful. At the same time, I have been horrified by some reports that I’ve seen. For example, there was a Guidepost Solutions report that was done on the Bryan Loritts’ investigation. I wrote about it so people can go and see it, but it was shocking to me because the only person that had this phone that had the evidence of wrongdoing was Bryan Loritts. He said things happened that he gave it to people. Nobody ever verified that they ever got the phone from him. He said he instructed people to report this to the police. We know that the police got no report whatsoever. And yet, the thing that was reported at the end of that was that Bryan Loritts essentially, has been found not guilty by this, you know. There’s no reason to think he was involved. It was shocking to me because the whole thing was pretty decent. I mean, really, they didn’t find out anything that I hadn’t found out prior, you know, because I had investigated this. But it was pretty decent as you went through. And if you understand the different people and what their objectives might be, and telling the truth or not telling the truth, but the analysis was just shocking to me. And there was so much inside of me that would have appreciated it, because when it was reported, people, you know, reporters can be really lazy. So they can just like look at the analysis at the end, and then just take that and not read the report. Because why bother, right? Just cut to the chase, read that, and then move on to your next story. And that’s what I suspect a lot of them did. And the problem is the truth didn’t get out there. So as a reporter, we keep like this really firm line between any analysis or opinion, and any news. So, we report all the facts here in the news story, we try not to let any editorial comment come in, and then we’ll report separately, okay, here’s what we think about it, if we do that. Or sometimes we’ll interview several experts, and then we’ll quote them in the story to give some perspective if we feel like the reader needs that. So, speak to that, because, again, I’ve seen it work. And I’ve seen it be absolutely abysmal, when there’s analysis in there, and there’s a part of me as a reporter that just wished the analysis would be separate,   PETER SINGER  41:38 You bring up a really great point, Julie, and I’m not going to speak to any particular other organization that is out there doing investigation. But just off the top of my head, I can think of three or four reports that I’ve read within the last year where I look at them, and their findings of fact make sense to me. And I get done reading the findings of fact thinking, wow, this is great. They actually revealed what happened. And then I get to their analysis. And I’m like, how did they get that analysis? That analysis is totally contrary to the facts! What happened?**   PETER SINGER  42:15 And so often, that can happen because that organization is being a mud flap, because their job is to direct the dirt. And again, I’m not calling out any specific organizations. And sometimes you’re just left wondering, and I think that you highlight just the importance, you can’t just go and read the analysis, you can’t just go and read the conclusions, you have to read the whole thing. And if you read the whole thing, you will see, A does not equal B. What’s going on here? And that is one of the red flags that you may have when you’re reading a report to know if that report was done in good faith. Because if you’re reading that nobody from whatever group participated or agreed to be interviewed, and then you’re reading the analysis that says this organization was fully engaged in the investigation, you got two opposite things. One is a factual statement but negates the analysis. With the GRACE report, generally speaking, there’s going to be some variability, we lay out those factual findings. There are some pieces of analysis in there. But those factual findings are laid out, and then we do an analysis. And sometimes there’s analysis that’s brought in with each piece of the findings so that there can be understanding as we go along. But that’s one of the key pieces that we do. And one of Robert’s biggest responsibilities is to make sure that this analysis actually is consistent with the factual findings. And not in contradiction to it.   ROBERT PETERS  43:55 Yeah, adding to that getting the what right is inconsequential, if you screw up the so what,. And so, I think that’s one critique I would have just more broadly over even law firm involved investigations, if you don’t have the church culture piece, if you don’t have the scriptural piece, you’re gonna mess up the so what or at a minimum, you’re going to miss an opportunity to address the so what piece of it. It’s so interesting how often we’re moving from, you have entities that are theoretically sola scriptura, but not in this context. Theoretically, Scripture is sufficient for all things, but not here. And so why is the disconnect, right? Why are we not leaning on Scripture to guide our response? And I think there’s some reasons for that, that are not always always very pleasant. So, I think getting that so what use is critical. **   ROBERT PETERS  44:39 I don’t know, Julie, if you’re familiar with I’m sure you’re familiar with the name Victor Vieth. But he wrote a really influential article years ago called Unto the Third Generation, and he posits a very optimistic and I think still realistic and grounded view that child abuse really can be meaningfully reduced to levels that are fractions of what they are now. I think that’s absolutely the case, I think we can lose sight of that just in the work that we do. Right? You’re being exposed to all this stuff. And how does this you know; how does this stuff ever end.**   ROBERT PETERS  45:11 One of the ways it ends is by not just getting a recitation of the facts. And then even if you don’t botch the analysis, stop there. The facts are important. The facts matter, they need light, and survivors deserve that. What also needs to happen is the so what. Okay, given these facts, what are the systems that allowed this to happen? As James Clear states, we don’t rise to the level of our goals, we fall to the level of our systems. What systemically is wrong here? And then by implication, how do we fix it? Because we don’t need to live in a world where every day, there’s a new, terrible podcast topic, probably several that you have to choose from. Right? We don’t have to live in a world where every day there’s more hearts being broken, and more individuals being shown an image of Christ and image of God does anything but what Scripture portrays. This is unnecessary. There is a way forward, and that way forward is the path of Christ. And it’s taking the facts seriously, yes. But it’s also doing the hard work of what do we do now, or the work of culture change. You don’t get there without the Bible. You don’t get there without being sensitive to survivors and being trauma informed. And that’s what survivors deserve in these investigations, regardless of who was conducting them.   Julie Roys  46:22 So, so good.   PETER SINGER  46:24 This is where the words of James come in: to the one who knows to do good, and doesn’t do it, it is sin. When you get done reading the report, there should be a path that’s laid out. Now you know, the path. And if you don’t do it, you are in essence taking God’s name in vain to continue sinning, to continue causing harm, to continue misrepresenting God.   Julie Roys  46:52 Amen. So, so good. And I so appreciate what you guys do. I know that these podcasts even though we keep our news stories and our investigations, we have to as journalists, just report them straight as we can. But I’ve heard from so many people, it’s the podcast where this is our analysis piece, right? This is where we get to speak into these things. And they’ve been so so instructive to our listeners. I hear it all the time. We just had the RESTORE conference, and so many people came up to me and said, thank you so much for the podcast, because voices like yours get amplified, and they get to hear them and get to be able to process the information that they’re hearing. So, so grateful for both of you, Pete, and Robert and Christine, who was with us earlier,. Thank you so much for being a part of this podcast.   PETER SINGER  47:42 Thank you for the opportunity. It was great.   ROBERT PETERS  47:44 Thank you.   Julie Roys  47:45 And thanks so much for listening to The Roys Report, a podcast dedicated to reporting the truth and restoring the church. I’m Julie Roys. And if you’ve appreciated this podcast, would you please consider supporting what we do financially? As I’ve said before, we don’t have any big donors or advertisers. We have you the people who care about exposing abuse and corruption in the church so she can be restored. And this month when you give a gift of $30 or more to the Roys report, we’ll send you a copy of Scot McKnight and Laura Behringer, his book pivot the priorities practices and powers that can transform your church into a Tov culture. So, to donate and to get your copy of pivot just go to JULIEROYS.COM/DONATE. Also, just a quick reminder to subscribe to the noise report on Apple podcast. Google podcasts or Spotify. That way you’ll never miss an episode. And while you’re at it, I’d really appreciate it if you’d help us spread the word about the podcast by leaving a review. And then please share the podcast on social media so more people can hear about this great content. Again, thanks so much for joining me today. Hope you were blessed and encouraged. Read more

In this week's episode, we're picking up 'Habits Of The Household' by Justin Whitmel Earley. Join us as we delve into the seemingly mundane daily rituals that, in reality, hold a profound influence in our lives. We're all guilty of dismissing these small tasks as trivial - scrolling on our phone, deciding what to eat, or even how we put the kids to bed. However, it's time to reconsider their significance. After all, anything we do every day makes up a significant portion of our lives. Recognizing this is just the beginning.Earley's insightful and powerful book guides us on a journey of understanding, prompting us to re-evaluate these daily habits and, more importantly, teaching us how to leverage them for our good. It's not just about embracing the power of routine to transform our lives one day at a time but, more importantly, recognizing the spiritual purpose and ramifications of our daily habits. We discuss our key takeaways from the book, share personal experiences, and explore practical steps to implement these concepts.Whether you've read the book or not, this episode will open your eyes to the power of daily rituals and their potential to inspire dramatic change. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that will challenge you to look at your everyday habits in a new light. Get ready for an episode filled with valuable insights, compelling discussion, and a newfound appreciation for the little things that shape our lives.Grab the book here -> https://amzn.to/3P1xEpf