Podcasts about umc

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message from Acts chapter 2.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Christina  Hello, everyone, I'm Christina Darnell, the managing editor of MinistryWatch. Welcome to the MinistryWatch podcast. In today's extra episode, I talk with Warren Smith about some news items that are slightly (even significantly) outside of our normal charity and philanthropy “beat.” So, Warren, what's up first? Warren I subscribe to Kate Bowler's Substack and read this week that she had spoken at Church of the Resurrection in Kansas City. When she wrote that this United Methodist congregation had 25,000 members, I was a bit incredulous. Christina United Methodist churches do not usually grow that large, especially these days. Warren So, I did some fact-checking, and she is right, though most online sources also say that weekly attendance at the church is closer to 6,000. Still, that is big. The church is centrist in theology and has so far managed to stay in the United Methodist Church without suffering a meltdown in attendance, though its growth has flattened in recent years. I am going to keep my eye on the church. It will be an interesting bellwether for the future of the UMC. Christina Moving on, there's a leadership transition coming up at a significant Christian organization. Warren After nearly six years of service, Kevin Van Horne has stepped down as Executive Director of International Fellowship of Evangelical Students/ USA. His last day was Friday, May 15, 2026. According to a statement from the organization, “Kevin led IFES/USA through a season of significant change, helping to serve our global fellowship and partners well. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and for the ways God has worked through him.” Dave Shepherd (Director of Finance) has been appointed to serve as Interim Executive Director. IFES was a MinistryWatch Shining Light Award winner in 2023 and has maintained excellent ratings from us since then. Christina Warren, I know you are always interested in demographics and statistics. But something special caught your attention this week. Warren That's right, and before I say what that was, let me as some rhetorical questions. What is the most significant problem facing America and the world? Nuclear winter? Global warming? Artificial intelligence? I would submit for your consideration the coming depopulation of the earth. For at least 30 years, most reputable demographers have been saying that the world population growth is slowing and will likely top out soon. By the year 2100 the world will be in the midst of a significant population decline. Christina And one thing that caught your attention is just how much this population decline will impact all areas of life on earth. Warren That's right. This decline will have enormous implications for every aspect of life. Cities built for millions of people will disappear, leaving a rotting infrastructure. Economic growth will be impossible. We are already seeing towns in the Midwest and West disappear. That trend will accelerate. Christina I've got to admit, Warren, that that sounds a bit melodramatic. Warren I think it's fair to be skeptical, but population demographics is one area of social science that has pretty sound prediction models. Birth rates have fallen to record lows, and they don't change that much from year to year. So it's actually pretty easy to predict what the population will be in the future. And the numbers don't look good. But if these predictions seem a bit melodramatic to you, I suggest reading a new article from The Atlantic, The Great Depopulation. A world with a shrinking and aging population will offer great opportunities for ministry, but for almost every country on the planet, it will be a culturally wrenching reality. Christina On May 17, an event called ReDedicate 250 brought speakers to the National Mall in Washington. The speakers included Eric Metaxas, Mark Driscoll, Sean Feucht, and Greg Locke – all men we've written about here at MinistsryWatch. Warren That's right. They are a part of what some are now calling the Dissident Christian Right. Christina What does that mean? Warren They are not quite Christian Nationalist, but not mainstream evangelical, either. Most assessments have judged the event as kind of a bust. A few thousand people attended, but DCR pundits had predicted many more. For example, The Christian Post reported that Robert Jeffress predicted the gathering “could be the nation's largest religious gathering in more than 50 years.” It is not clear what the attendance figures for this event forbode for the DCR movement, but the weak attendance was a surprise to me and to many who have been following the movement. Christina And there was a notable passing last week. Warren My friend Bob Woodson died last week at the age of 89. If you do not know about Bob's life and the legacy he leaves behind, I recommend reading John Stonestreet's excellent tribute. It was an honor for me to be a part of the Colson Center team that presented Bob with a Wilberforce Award in 2018. He was sui generis. One of one. I will miss him personally, and our country will miss his leadership. I helped arrange a trip for him to The King's College in 2010 to do a live interview with Marvin Olasky. That interview is worth a listen, and you can find it here. Christina Warren, you've mentioned before, that you are a fan of Carey Nieuwhof's leadership podcast. This week he dropped one of his most personal episodes ever. Warren He recounts how, about 20 years ago, he experienced a period of profound burnout. It is part of a two-part series on how to avoid burning out. I strongly recommend it. You can find the first episode here. Christina Warren, we need to wrap things up here. Any final thoughts before we go? Warren I'll be in Knoxville this week attending an event hosted by my former colleagues and good friends at The Colson Center for Christian Worldview. If you'd like to have lunch with me on Friday, let me hear from you. I'll be doing similar lunches in Denver and Colorado Springs in June. Let me know if you would like to join us. My email is wsmith@ministrywatch.com. Christina That brings to a close this EXTRA episode of the podcast. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. I'm Christina Darnell, along with Warren Smith. Until next time, may God bless you.

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message on John chapter 17.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date May 24, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we trade the exhaustion of trying to "bat 1,000" for the scandalous grace of Pentecost—a day when God pours out a Spirit not for the perfect, but for "all flesh." We explore how our fragile, forgetful, and silver-haired humanity is exactly where the Holy Spirit chooses to take up residence. You are invited to stop waiting until you have it all together and instead become God's greatest surprise: the Risen Christ showing up in the middle of our beautifully broken lives. References Scripture: Acts 2:1–21 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message from 1 Peter chapter 3.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Pastor Yvi wraps up our series on United Methodism with a sermon diving into the UMC social principles-- how we put our faith into action.

Date May 17, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we dismantle the cultural idol of selfish ambition to uncover the radical liberation found in Christ-like humility. We explore the "Christ Hymn" of Philippians, discovering that true divine power isn't found in climbing the ladder of empire, but in the courageous descent to serve others. By choosing the bottom, we find a unity that transcends our divisions and a love that washes the feet of both friend and betrayer alike. About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

We all want the same thing from the people closest to us, to be fully known and fully loved. This week we're looking at what happens when that desire goes unexamined, and what it quietly costs our most important relationships.

We all want the same thing from the people closest to us, to be fully known and fully loved. This week we're looking at what happens when that desire goes unexamined, and what it quietly costs our most important relationships.

GEMS RADIO SEGMENTPart II: The Power of Thoughts w/ special guest Taina Speaks Hosted by Genesis Amaris Kemp w/ Beverly Nation Online Radio @ O N E UniverseWHO IS TAINA SPEAKS?●Retired Host of WBNN. My show is called Power of Thoughts.On the show I shared words on various topics that allowed for the facilitation of cognitive reconstruction and shifts on perspective. I believe that every thought we had throughout out our lives shaped our reality today. ●COO of FantoMusic Record Label It's the record label of 2x grammy Nominated producer Haas G from the UMC's. He haa produced many songs including Magic Stick by Lil' Kim and 50 cent.●President of DiBernardo ProductionsWe offer professional casting (Film, TV, Commercials) ●Festival Director of Creators Film FestWe nurture the next generation of storytelling through a cinematic lens.CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe / Follow GEMS with Genesis Amaris Kemp podcast onaudio platform & YouTube channel, Hit the notifications bell so you don't miss any content, and share with family/friends.  GENESIS'S INFOhttps://genesisamariskemp.net/genesisamariskemp  If you would like to be a SPONSOR or have any of your merchandise mentioned please reach out via email . **REMEMBER - You do not have to let limitations or barrierskeep you from achieving your success. Mind over Matter...It's time to shift and unleash your greatest potential.

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message on John chapter 14.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date May 10, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we explore the defiant nature of joy as an unbidden guest that arrives precisely when we expect it least. Drawing on the series Surprise Party: 50 Days of Enchantment, we examine how the Apostle Paul—writing from the claustrophobia of a prison cell—aligns himself with a "do-it-again" God whose very nature is delight. We are invited to stop resisting these fleeting moments of grace and instead receive them as a holy resistance against a disenchanted world. Ultimately, we discover that when joy finds us amidst our grief, it is not a betrayal of our pain but a profound encounter with the nearness of God. References Scripture: Philippians 1:1–18 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

Your emotions are important messangers — but they're not telling you the whole story either, and what you can't see is quietly running your life.

Did you know discipleship is more powerful when it's done in circles rather than rows? Ascending Leaders Founder and President Mike Johnson engages with Rev. Harry Vein, a retired UMC pastor and certified discipleship coach, in a conversation about how doing discipleship in close circles provides a deeper, more meaningful discipleship experience.

After last week's historic ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court that Louisiana's congressional map is unconstitutional, Gov. Jeff Landry issued a state of emergency to postpone the U.S. House of Representatives race in the state.Capitol Access Reporter Brooke Thorington joins us with the latest.Nurses at University Medical Center (UMC) New Orleans are wrapping up a five-day strike. This is the sixth time over the last 18 months that nurses have walked out over ongoing contract negotiations. Terry Mogilles, a registered nurse at UMC's orthopedic clinic, and Hailey Dupré, a registered nurse in endoscopy at UMC, discuss their demands and why they believe patient care is currently at risk.New Orleans-based artist, culture bearer and community organizer Willie Birch is hitting the road with a new traveling art exhibit. Dubbed “Willie Birch: Stories to Tell,” the exhibit features six decades of paintings, sculptures and installations. The tour begins today, May 5, in partnership with the American Federation for the Arts. Willie Birch joins us for more on his career and how he was impacted by New Orleans' social justice movements.__Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Sara Henegan. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber, and our assistant producer is Aubry Procell. Our engineer is Garrett Pittman.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!

Justin caught a facing issue on fresh UMC pallets before they could ruin parts, while his Shopboard reel blew up on Instagram. Jem survived a surprise WorkSafe inspection and a brutal $8k robot service bill. The guys talk selling out of ATC Pedestals, $5 McMaster parts versus Haas tax, custom ERP dashboards, and a new quest for decent video editing help. Home Assistant just works.Watch on YoutubeDISCUSSED:✍️ Comment or Suggest a TopicShopboard goes off, AirShop integrated$5 skimmer belts on McMaster from Langerman Machine #9452K451Dumb setup for dumb reasonWorkSafe visit (OSHA)Robot maintenance?Justin requests:Video Editing rec?Industrial Engineer rec? IANAE (like IANAL)Lutron Pico

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message from John chapter 10.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date May 3, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we confront the "surprise" no one wants: the devastating gap between the miracle we prayed for and the reality of grief. Amidst the heartbreak of losing a beloved child, we set aside the party to sit in the honest, defiant landscape of Psalm 23. We discover a God who doesn't offer trite explanations but a relentless, pursuing presence—a love that chases us even into the darkest valleys. When words fail, we find our way forward by simply showing up and mirroring the stubborn, enduring mercy that refuses to let us go. References Scripture: Psalm 23 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

Your brain has a blind spot in each eye, and it fills it in so convincingly you've never once noticed it. You don't feel blind. Nobody does. That's exactly the problem. The same thing is happening in your relationships, your emotions, and your habits – and it's already costing you more than you know.

Season 13 of the 'More than Sunday' podcast explores the intersection of faith and technology and asks what it might look like to stay human in an increasingly digital world.  This season features conversations with pastors and faith leaders from the Phygital Preaching Fellowship, an initiative of Texas Methodist Foundation and Wesleyan Impact Partners, made possible through the support of the Lilly Endowment. Host, Rohini Drake, has been part of this fellowship for the past two years, and the interviews included in the podcast were recorded in Chicago to capture real, thoughtful reflections from leaders navigating ministry in a hybrid, evolving landscape.  In this episode, we ask a question that many of us have been wrestling with lately -  'why is it easier to make friends online'? We hear from Rev. Jonah Overton (they/them) - a queer community organizer, and Rev. Nathan Webb, an Elder in the UMC and pastor of Checkpoint Church, which is an online church for nerds, geeks, and gamers. We'll also hear from Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Senior Pastor at FUMCR and Rev. Allison Jean, Pastor of Modern Worship who help us navigate these conversations with insight, curiosity, and through the lens of faith. For more information about the voices featured on this podcast, please visit: https://www.fumcr.com/MoreThanSunday     First United Methodist Church Richardson welcomes people for Christ, grows people in Christ, and Serves people with Christ. Stay connected with us: FUMCR Website: fumcr.com FUMCR Facebook: facebook.com/FUMCRichardson FUMCR Instagram: instagram.com/FUMCR FUMCR YouTube: youtube.com/FUMCR 503 N Central Expressway Richardson, TX 75080

A sermon preached by Ed Crump with Foundry UMC, April 19, 2026, the second Sunday of Easter.   Texts: Isaiah 51:1–6; Luke 24:13–35 April 19, 2026 Good morning. Will you pray with me, May the words of my mouth and the meditations of all our hearts be pleasing to you God, our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen.   There are moments in life when everything you thought was solid… suddenly isn't. Plans collapse. The future you trusted no longer exists. Many of us have had those moments since January 20, 2025. Some of us are dealing with illness or a sick loved one. Some of us have experienced heartbreak. Some of us are lonely. Some of us are feeling financial insecurity. And when we experience those things, usually all we can do is put one foot in front of another.   In our text from Luke this morning, that's where we meet the disciples: Not triumphant.  Not celebrating resurrection.  Not even waiting in hope. They are walking away from Jerusalem. Away from the place where everything fell apart. Away from the cross. Away from hope. Two friends walking away together. They say, “We had hoped…”  And note they use the past tense. “We had hoped he was the one to redeem Israel.”   Not just grief, but disorientation.   Their understanding of God, of justice, of the future has all unraveled. The Jesus they were presented with did not meet their expectations, so they had difficulty recognizing and accepting him. And if we're honest, many of us know that road. We know what it is to say, “I had hoped…” And for some communities, that sense of “we had hoped” is not just a moment or a season, but a painfully long history. A history of displacement, of promises broken, of identity challenged or erased.   Today, as we mark Native American Ministries Sunday, we remember that Indigenous peoples across this land are not abstract names from a history book. They are living communities, with real histories, sacred languages, deep wisdom, and enduring resilience with cultures that existed for thousands of years before their land was taken from them. And many carry stories of disruption and loss that echo, in their own way, that same cry: “we had hoped.” On this special Sunday during Easter Season, I want to read Foundry's WE ARE ON NATIVE LAND statement: When we gather for worship and ministry on the corner of 16th and P, we do so upon the sacred, traditional, and unceded lands of the Anacostan, Massawomack, Susquehannock, Piscataway, and Pomunkey peoples, who were forcibly removed from this area to allow for English settlement. As occupiers of their territory, we recognize them as the original and perpetual stewards of this land and gratefully acknowledge our responsibility for a more honest recounting of our history that empowers us to work for the thriving of all people!     Now hold that ugly, inconvenient reality alongside the voice from the prophet Isaiah we read this morning: “Listen to me, you who pursue righteousness… look to the rock from which you were hewn.” Isaiah is speaking to a people who are also disoriented. They are exiled, displaced, unsure of who they are anymore. In the wake of the Babylonian Exile, everything that once defined them: land, temple, nation, has been stripped away. They are not just geographically displaced; they are spiritually disoriented, wondering if they are still God's people at all. And into that uncertainty, God does not begin with explanation but with invitation: “Look to the rock from which you were [cut].” Isaiah says to remember Abraham and Sarah, how God brought life out of barrenness, promise out of impossibility. In other words, Isaiah is saying, your identity is not determined by your present loss, but by God's enduring faithfulness. Scripture tells us that every human being is made in the image of God. That's why we proclaim that truth in rainbows and banners right out front:  “No matter anything, you are welcome here to be met by our God, who knows you by name, and who loves you, and who wants to have an ever deepening relationship with you. Welcome.” That means no people, no culture, no community is less-than.   Even now, God says, salvation is on the way, not just for you, but as a light for all nations. What feels like an ending is, in God's hands, still unfolding. The prophet Isaiah says: “For the Lord will comfort Zion… will make her wilderness like Eden.” What looks barren is not the end of the story. But here's the tension between our texts from Isaiah and Luke today: On the road to Emmaus, the disciples know the story. They know the Scriptures. They know the promises. And still…they're walking away. They really don't understand what's going on. And then, all of the sudden, without announcement, Jesus comes alongside them. And they don't recognize him. He's not what they expected. Not what they had “hoped for.” Luke tells us, “their eyes were kept from recognizing him.” The risen Christ is right there walking beside them, and they don't recognize him. [PAUSE]   Why don't they know it's Jesus? I don't think it's because they're actually foolish. And I don't think it's because they completely lack faith. Rather, I suspect it's because sometimes grief closes our vision. Sometimes disappointment narrows what we can imagine God doing; or loved ones doing; or our ability to persevere.   And what does Jesus do when the disciples don't recognize him?  …and I think this is one of the most instructive parts of this passage… Jesus listens. He lets them tell the story. Cleopas basically says, ‘Are you the only one in Jerusalem who hasn't heard what happened to Jesus?' …to Jesus. …and what's really amazing is, Jesus lets them tell HIS OWN story and he just listens…he doesn't jump in and say, well of course I know the story, it's about me! He keeps quiet. He lets them name their grief. He lets them speak their dashed hopes out loud. And only then does he begin to reframe things. “Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he reframes the story. Not as failure. Not as defeat. But as part of a larger unfolding, where suffering and glory are somehow, mysteriously intertwined. This is where Luke and Isaiah meet. Isaiah says: Do not trust only what you see. God's future is bigger than your present reality. Jesus says: You are reading the story too narrowly.   But even after this incredible moment of teaching…the Disciples still don't recognize Jesus! Not yet. It's not until they reach the village. Not until there's an invitation. Not until they sit down. Not until they share a meal. In a text clearly designed to evoke the image of the Eucharist it says, “He took bread, blessed it, broke it, and gave it to them.” Then, and only then, do they recognize him. Not in the explanation. Not in the argument. But in the breaking of the bread. In the shared table. In an act of community. And this is exactly why John Wesley refers to Holy Communion as a “means of grace.” An opportunity to have a real encounter with God and Spirit.   According to the UMC website, a “means of grace” in the Methodist and Wesleyan tradition is: “...an ordinary channel—such as prayer, Scripture, or Communion—through  which God invisibly works to strengthen, sanctify, and convey [God's] love to believers. These practices, categorized as works of piety and devotion; mercy and compassion, are not meritorious acts but instruments for receiving grace and cultivating personal and communal holiness.” And in our tradition we celebrate the Eucharist in an “open table” where we invite all who desire to be Christlike—regardless of denomination, membership, or baptismal status—to partake in Holy Communion. And that tells us something about how we understand God's vision. In the Interpretation Bible Commentary on Luke, Fred Craddock notes something profound,  “...Luke here tells us that the living Christ is both the key to our understanding the Scriptures and the very present Lord who is revealed to us in the breaking of bread. His presence at the table makes all believers first-generation Christians and every meeting place Emmaus.” The table is not a place where difference disappears. It is a place where difference is honored, and still, there is room for everyone.  The Gospel is Good News precisely because it declares this inclusiveness and abundance.  There is more than enough in God's economy. And then, just as suddenly, just at the moment they recognize who Jesus is, he vanishes. But something is different. Something has changed in them: “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road?” The recognition was not just about realizing it was Jesus. It was about becoming people who can fully understand who Jesus is. People whose hearts are awake. People who remember who they are called to be and act accordingly.  And what do they do after they recognize Jesus? They get up, immediately, and go back. Back to Jerusalem. Back to the place they had fled. Because resurrection doesn't just comfort us. It sends us. It calls us to service in the priesthood of all believers. And when it sends us, it sends us not just with ideas, but with action.   The question for us is:  How do we recognize Jesus like the disciples did? How do we live into the love of Christ we are called to embody?     The Wesleyan answer to that question is — of course — through various “means of grace” like prayer and Holy Communion. Let me give a specific example…   One of the most helpful practices I've found to help me improve my conscious contact with God, allowing me to more fully perceive God's presence is Centering Prayer.   Centering Prayer is a simple form of silent, contemplative prayer that invites us to rest in God, not through lots of words or scripted prayers, but through quiet consent to God's presence.    The practice is to choose a “sacred word” like peace, love, grace, or Jesus, and use the word to pray with and connect to God, gently returning to the word whenever our mind wanders.   So the practice is to sit in silence, letting thoughts come and go, always returning to our sacred word as a way of opening ourselves to God.   I want to invite everyone to try Centering Prayer now for a couple minutes to get a taste for the practice:   Sit up straight - comfortable and alert Choose a “sacred word” Take a deep breath in and out And silently introduce your sacred word as a simple prayer.  This is like “placing yourself” in God's presence without effort or expectations.   [2 MINUTES OF SILENCE]     What many people discover is that, over time, this practice makes God's presence more accessible—especially in difficult moments. The sacred word becomes “top of mind” and can readily remind us that God is always here.   What I most of all want to do this morning is encourage all of us to explore various means of grace as we journey through life. To find practices that help us improve our regular conscious contact with God.    [PAUSE] So what does this all mean for us today? It means: Christ meets us on the road we didn't plan to walk. Christ listens to the stories we tell, even when they are full of disappointment. Christ reinterprets our lives in light of a larger hope. And Christ is made known, not just in grand moments, but I think mostly in simple acts: Breaking bread. Sharing space. Welcoming one another. In quiet moments of prayer, meditation, and contemplation. And it also means this: We are ALL invited to be part of what God is doing in the world. Not just as charity. But as a partnership. Not as rescuers. But as people willing to listen, to learn, and to walk alongside.   So if you find yourself today somewhere on that road— Carrying grief… Holding disappointment… Wondering where God is in all of it… …or walking alongside someone who is struggling… Pay attention. Because today's Scriptures tell us we do not walk the road alone. Who is representing Christ to you on your journey?  As we begin to fully perceive, we may also begin to see Christ in one another: in acts of compassion; in truth-telling; in shared table; in repaired relationships. May we, with God's help, not only recognize Christ walking with us, but also be willing to imitate Christ in lives of love, compassion, justice, humility, and shared humanity. Amen.

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a messge on Acts chapter 24.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date April 26, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we explore the radical, countercultural surprise of staying put. In a world that profits from our restlessness, we investigate how the "vow of stability" offers a defiant path toward reenchantment. By looking at the grounded presence of Paul and Silas in a midnight prison cell, we discover that the grace we seek isn't found in our escape, but in our commitment to remain present to the beautiful, heavy reality right where we are. References Scripture: Acts 16:16–34 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

The Christian life isn't about adding Jesus to the life you've built. It's about dying to it.

Season 13 of the 'More than Sunday' podcast explores the intersection of faith and technology and asks what it might look like to stay human in an increasingly digital world.  This season features conversations with pastors and faith leaders from the Phygital Preaching Fellowship, an initiative of Texas Methodist Foundation and Wesleyan Impact Partners, made possible through the support of the Lilly Endowment. Host, Rohini Drake, has been part of this fellowship for the past two years, and the interviews included in the podcast were recorded in Chicago to capture real, thoughtful reflections from leaders navigating ministry in a hybrid, evolving landscape.  In this episode, we ask a question that many of us have been wrestling with lately -  'how do we know what's true online'? We hear from Rev. Mike Whang who is the founder of Oikon Studios, which creates digital and physical liturgies for spiritual formation and Rev. Nathan Webb, an Elder in the UMC and pastor of Checkpoint Church, which is an online church for nerds, geeks, and gamers. We'll also hear from Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Senior Pastor at FUMCR and Rev. Allison Jean, Pastor of Modern Worship who help us navigate these conversations with insight, curiosity, and through the lens of faith. For more information about the voices featured on this podcast, please visit: https://www.fumcr.com/MoreThanSunday     First United Methodist Church Richardson welcomes people for Christ, grows people in Christ, and Serves people with Christ. Stay connected with us: FUMCR Website: fumcr.com FUMCR Facebook: facebook.com/FUMCRichardson FUMCR Instagram: instagram.com/FUMCR FUMCR YouTube: youtube.com/FUMCR 503 N Central Expressway Richardson, TX 75080

What's really driving polarization in our churches—and how can leaders respond without getting pulled into the chaos? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. sits down with Jack Shatama to explore how family systems theory helps make sense of rising anxiety, division, and reactivity in both the church and society. Drawing on insights from sociology, leadership theory, and pastoral experience, Jack offers a framework for leading with clarity, conviction, and calm in an increasingly fragmented world. The conversation unpacks how chronic anxiety fuels polarization, why churches often get stuck in reactive patterns, and how leaders can cultivate a “non-anxious presence” that creates space for healthier relationships and deeper discipleship. Together they explore: How chronic anxiety leads to polarization in church and culture The difference between process and content—and why it matters Why conflict often becomes a “battle of wills” How identity has shifted from faith-based to politically driven Why setting boundaries is essential for healthy leadership The challenge of maintaining mission in anxious systems Jack Shitama is the Director of the Center for Vital Leadership, which serves the Peninsula-Delaware and Baltimore-Washington Conferences of The United Methodist Church (UMC). He is an ordained UMC minister and has served as pastor of churches in Port Deposit, MD and Chesapeake City, MD. Jack is the author of four books: Anxious Church, Anxious People, One New Habit, One Big Goal, If You Met My Family You'd Understand, Everyone Loves a Non-Anxious Presence. His website is the www.thenonanxiousleader.com. His podcast, The Non-Anxious Leader podcast is available on all platforms. Jack and his wife of 44 years, Jodi, have four children and seven grandchildren. Jack is an avid runner and has completed the Baltimore Marathon three times. He occasionally plays guitar and bass in the Jacob's Well Band, his church's worship band. He enjoys all kinds of sports, cooking, reading, traveling and, most of all, seeing people experience spiritual growth.   Mentioned Resources:

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message from Acts chapter 2.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date April 19, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we explore the scandalous reach of Easter hope through the lens of Saul's blinding encounter on the road to Damascus. We confront a God who subverts our hierarchies of belonging, trading our rigid "safety patrol" certainties for a grace that reaches the very people we have labeled as "out." By examining the quiet bravery of Ananias, we are challenged to move beyond condemnation and embrace the radical humility required to call an enemy "brother." This is a call to inhabit the "Surprise Party" of the Gospel, where the scales of judgment fall away to reveal a kinship we never thought possible. About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

In 112 AD a Roman governor arrested Christians and gave them a simple choice — curse Christ and go free, or die — and what happened next reveals the only thing strong enough to hold you when everything in you wants to let go.

Send us Fan MailThis week the podcast follows a tough day for the host crew as Taylar, Gianna, and Lilly recap their experience of leading during the difficult funeral of one of our preschool students who was taught music by Lilly and chapel by Pastor Matt.  Today's episode recapped a busy two weeks at Heritage--church and a DeRP lunch with the bishop, skate night, and this year, the UMC's "announcement Sunday" applies at Heritage as Pastor Janean is appointed to Palm Harbor UMC! 

Season 13 of the 'More Than Sunday' podcast explores the intersection of faith and technology and asks what it might look like to stay human in an increasingly digital world.  This season features conversations with pastors and faith leaders from the Phygital Preaching Fellowship, an initiative of Texas Methodist Foundation and Wesleyan Impact Partners, made possible through the support of the Lilly Endowment. Host, Rohini Drake, has been part of this fellowship for the past two years, and the interviews included in the podcast were recorded in Chicago to capture real, thoughtful reflections from leaders navigating ministry in a hybrid, evolving landscape. In each episode, you'll also hear from Pastors Clayton and Allison, who help us navigate these conversations with insight, curiosity, and through the lens of faith. In this first episode of the More Than Sunday podcast, we explore how online communities are reshaping faith, connection, and belonging in a digital age. We hear from Rev. Jonah P. Overton (they/them) - a queer community organizer, and the lead pastor and planter of Zao MKE Church and Rev. Rachel Gilmore, UMC Elder and Director of New and Vital Faith in the Desert Southwest Conference of the UMC, Dr. Clayton Oliphint, Senior Pastor at FUMCR and Rev. Allison Jean, Pastor of Modern Worship as they discuss hybrid ministry, the rise of online church spaces like Discord, and how technology can combat loneliness while redefining what it means to love your neighbor. For more information about the voices featured on this podcast, please visit: https://www.fumcr.com/MoreThanSunday     First United Methodist Church Richardson welcomes people for Christ, grows people in Christ, and Serves people with Christ. Stay connected with us: FUMCR Website: fumcr.com FUMCR Facebook: facebook.com/FUMCRichardson FUMCR Instagram: instagram.com/FUMCR FUMCR YouTube: youtube.com/FUMCR 503 N Central Expressway Richardson, TX 75080

Send us Fan MailPastor preaches a message on Matthew 28.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date April 12, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we crash the best party you never knew was happening. Jesus doesn't wait for you to unlock the door — he walks through it, wounds showing, saying peace before you're ready to hear it. This is the God who descends rather than demands, who meets us in the locked rooms of our fear, hopelessness, shame, and apathy, and whose first word is always grace. We are not just invited to the party. We are sent to throw it. References Scripture: John 20:19–31 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

We live in the age of optionality. Keep your options open. Never fully commit. Always have an exit. Sounds good. But here's what nobody tells you: optionality doesn't give you the best of everything. It locks you out of the best things entirely. The best things only come from commitment. Here's why.

Get Your Spirit in Shape is back for a new season. Join Crystal and Joe as they talk about what's ahead and share about the Vision Statement of The United Methodist Church—how it helps us love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously in everyday life. Learn more: UMC.org/VisionResources for your church: ResourceUMC.org/Vision Watch The Recap: … Continue reading "Living the Vision: An Introduction"

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message from Matthew chapter 21.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date April 5, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we slow down long enough to see what cynicism keeps us from seeing — that resurrection isn't a one-time event that happened long ago, but the very shape of reality itself, breaking through in ordinary moments all around us. We sit with Mary Magdalene in her grief, name the ways disappointment calcifies into resignation, and discover that what finally breaks through isn't argument or evidence — it's Love calling us by name. The world is more alive than we've been giving it credit for. Do you see it? References Scripture: John 20:1-18 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

You've heard the Easter story—but what if the real question is whether you can trust the news that the war is over?

Top headlines for Friday, April 3, 2026Backlash from pro-life leaders after the Trump administration allowed Title X funding to go to Planned Parenthood, fueling accusations of political betrayal. We also look at the controversy sparked by Paula White-Caine after she compared President Trump to Jesus during a White House Easter event. Plus, former Congressman Matt Gaetz makes a startling claim about being briefed on alleged alien-human hybrid research while in office.00:11 Trump admin. extends Title X funding to Planned Parenthood00:59 Paula White-Caine likens Trump to Jesus, stokes backlash01:45 UFC's Joe Pyfer: 'I almost took my own life' but 'found God'02:27 Nvidia exec donates $50M to Austin Christian University03:18 Nigerian court sides with UMC against Global Methodists in case04:06 Matt Gaetz claims briefing on alien-human 'breeding programs' 04:52 Luke Bryan opens up about growing up in the churchSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTubeGet the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for AndroidSubscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!Links to the NewsTrump admin. extends Title X funding to Planned Parenthood | U.S.Paula White-Caine likens Trump to Jesus, stokes backlash | PoliticsUFC's Joe Pyfer: 'I almost took my own life' but 'found God' | SportsNvidia exec donates $50M to Austin Christian University | EducationNigerian court sides with UMC against Global Methodists in case | WorldMatt Gaetz claims briefing on alien-human 'breeding programs' | PoliticsLuke Bryan opens up about growing up in the church

Visit Crossmap.com — your trusted source for inspiration and life-changing stories from people of faith.Top headlines for Tuesday, March 31, 2026White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt's response to Pope Leo XIV's sharp warning that God does not hear the prayers of leaders who wage war, as conflict in the Middle East continues to intensify. We also examine a newly passed bill in Canada that would ban acts of “hatred,” and why critics say its broad language could threaten protections for religious speech.00:11 Pope Leo: Jesus 'doesn't listen to prayers of those who wage war'01:07 Trump WH responds to papal war rebuke, Church of Holy Sepulchre01:54 Judge rejects UMC's claim to own breakaway megachurch03:34 Canadian House of Commons passes controversial hate speech bill04:30 Archaeologists unearth 1,500-year-old monastic complex in Egypt05:22 Israel allows access to Holy Sepulchre after initial rejection06:32 First look at Wonder Project's 'Moses' special revealedSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle PodcastsOvercast⠀Follow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on TwitterChristian Post on Facebook@ChristianPostIntl on InstagramSubscribe on YouTube⠀Get the Edifi AppDownload for iPhoneDownload for Android⠀Subscribe to Our NewsletterSubscribe to the Freedom Post, delivered every Monday and ThursdayClick here to get the top headlines delivered to your inbox every morning!⠀Links to the NewsTrump WH responds to papal war rebuke, Church of Holy Sepulchre | PoliticsPope Leo: Jesus 'doesn't listen to prayers of those who wage war' | WorldJudge rejects UMC's claim to own breakaway megachurch | Church & MinistriesCanadian House of Commons passes controversial hate speech bill | PoliticsArchaeologists unearth 1,500-year-old monastic complex in Egypt | WorldIsrael allows access to Holy Sepulchre after initial rejection | Church & MinistriesFirst look at Wonder Project's 'Moses' special revealed | Entertainment

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message on John chapter 11.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Women's History Month is a time to mark the progress that women have made while mapping plans to ensure continued progress. And this year was quite special. United Women in Faith is celebrating its 157th birthday, and this Faith Talks segment honors the many women who came before us in those who continue to lead the way. We hope you'll listen, learn and reflect on the women who inspire you today and every day.In this episode of Faith Talks, Jennifer R. Farmer hosts Sally Vonner, United Women in Faith's own general secretary and CEO, and Megan Hale, Executive for the Office of Deaconess and Home Missioner, to discuss Women's History Month and their experiences as women in leadership.//Sally Vonner oversees the implementation of the organization's vision, mission, and strategic plan to positively impact the lives of women, children, and youth around the world. She collaborates with United Women in Faith's senior executives from the Offices of the General Secretary, Connectional, Finance and Asset Management, Operations, and Transformation on day-to-day operations.Vonner has served in many areas of The United Methodist Church — leading women's retreats, as a jurisdictional conference delegate or alternate for three quadrennia, and in immigration assistance and reform, community development, and dismantling racism initiatives at jurisdiction and conference levels.Vonner is a graduate of Perkins School of Theology with an M.Div. and Women's Studies certification. She graduated from East Texas State University with a B.S. degree in Biology. She serves on the board of the Scarritt Bennett Center in Nashville, TN.Deaconess Megan Hale (she/her) serves as an Executive for the Office of Deaconess and Home Missioner, administered by United Women in Faith. In this role, she works with those discerning the deaconess/home missioner relationship, oversees the application and candidacy process, and connects with more than 278 active and 118 retired deaconess/home missioners across the United States and 20 Africa Region deaconess/home missioners who are currently administered by United Women in Faith.The Office of Deaconess was first established in the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1888, and every predecessor denomination to what is today the United Methodist Church had a deaconess movement. The Order of Deaconess and Home Missioner was officially recognized as a lay order of the UMC at the 2016 General Conference, affirming the covenant community that had been active for decades and supporting its continued growth.Fulfilling one of the deaconess/home missioner mandates of building global community, Megan connects with deaconesses from the Philippines, creating online educational events to share experiences and inspiration across the diaconate. As a deaconess, she is also a member of DIAKONIA of the Americas and Caribbean (DOTAC) and DIAKONIA World Federation, where she recently participated in the first-ever DIAKONIA assembly in Africa. At this assembly, Megan helped coordinate the consecration service for 15 Africa Region Deaconess/Home Missioners and the official launch of the Africa Region Deaconess/Home Missioner Movement. Megan currently serves on the DOTAC Communications Committee and served on the DIAKONIA Social Justice Committee from 2021-2025.Megan was consecrated as a deaconess in 2014 at the United Methodist Women's Assembly in Louisville, KY. She earned a Master of Arts in Theology and Ministry – Social Justice Advocacy from Drew Theological Seminary in 2023. Prior to her current role, she served as a public-school educator and as Reconciling Ministries Coordinator for the legacy Central Texas Conference. Megan also serves on the national board of the Methodist Federation for Social Action as Program Council co-convener, on the Racial Audit Implementation Team, and on the steering committee for the New York chapter of MFSA.

Show Theme: The Power of Thoughts! The Power of Words and Your Tongue.- What are you thinking?- Are those thoughts fueling you or draining you?- Are you aware of what you are speaking in the atmosphere?- The power of word choices and what you release.- Are you in tune internally and externally?These are just a few questions, but I want this to be a fun and fluid conversation to inspire, motivate, and educate our listening audience w/ special guest WBNN Alumni Broadcaster Taina Speaks.Hosted by Genesis Amaris Kemp w/ Beverly Nation Online Radio @ O N E UniverseBACKGROUND OF TAINA SPEAKS●Retired Host of WBNN. My show was called Power of Thoughts.On the show I shared words on various topics that allowed for the facilitation of cognitive reconstruction and shifts on perspective. I believe that every thought we had throughout out our lives shaped our reality today. ●COO of FantoMusic Record Label It's the record label of 2x grammy Nominated producer Haas G from the UMC's. He has produced many songs including Magic Stick by Lil' Kim and 50 cent.●President of DiBernardo ProductionsWe offer professional casting (Film, TV, Commercials)●Festival Director of Creators Film FestWe nurture the next generation of storytelling through a cinematic lens.CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe / Follow GEMS with Genesis Amaris Kemp podcast onaudio platform & YouTube channel, Hit the notifications bell so you don't miss any content, and share with family/friends.  GENESIS'S INFOhttps://genesisamariskemp.net/genesisamariskemp If you would like to be a SPONSOR or have any of your merchandise mentioned pleasereach out via email

Date March 29, 2026 Synopsis In this Palm Sunday sermon, we repent of triumphalism—our desperate need for a God who wins—and discover what's revealed when those false images finally fall. We've all handed our hope to something that couldn't hold it, and called it faith. But the one who rides into Jerusalem on a donkey isn't heading for a throne. He's heading through death. And it turns out, that's exactly where the God who was always there has been waiting. References Scripture: Matthew 2:1–11 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

The celebration of Palm Sunday fades fast, but one question still presses on every heart: Who is this? Will we receive Jesus as the King we need?

Send us Fan MailPastor Johnnie preaches a message on 1 Samuel 16.Support the show#sermons   #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date March 22, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, guest preacher Alyson Tiwari invites us into the most honest question grief ever asks: Where were you? Using the story of Lazarus—and her own profound loss—she explores what it looks like to bring our full, unguarded selves to Jesus, anger and all. Reenchantment, she reminds us, isn't relentless optimism; it's the kind of presence that can hold grief and hope in the same breath, and discover God already standing in the middle of it, weeping. This week's invitation: release the cynicism that numbs, and dare to say, Show me something good. References Scripture: John 11:1–45 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.

What if you could spend your whole life getting everything you've wanted and worked for… and still miss the life Jesus is offering?

Send a textPastor Johnnie preaches a message from the Gospel of John chapter 4.Support the show#sermons #motivation #inspirationhttps://www.instagram.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://x.com/pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.facebook.com/pastorjsimpjr/https://pastorjohnnie.blogspot.com/https://www.threads.com/@pastorjsimpjrhttps://www.tiktok.com/@pastorjohnnie

Date March 15, 2026 Synopsis In this sermon, we ask what we might be missing when we get stuck pining for the past. Nostalgia is seductive—it feels like home—but it can blind us to what God is doing right now. We explore how the man born blind models a different way: not reaching backward, but saying hello to here. Part of our series Reenchanted: A Series for Lent on Believing Again. The past isn't a destination. It's evidence. References Scripture: John 9:1–41 About The Local Church For more information about The Local Church, visit our website. Feedback? Questions? Comments? We'd love to hear it. Email Brent at brent@thelocalchurchpbo.org. To invest in what God's doing through The Local Church and help support these podcasting efforts and this movement of God's love, give online here.