Podcasts about United Methodist Church

PUMC - Platteville United Methodist Church

Thank you for joining us for our traditional Sunday service! Today's sermon is "Our Daily Bread" by John Saxe.

The shelter season may end with the cold weather — but homelessness doesn't. On this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael catches up with Robyn Miller, Executive Director of WATTS (Winchester Area Temporary Transitional Shelter), to talk about what the organization is doing right now in June — the year-round case management, the two transitional homes, the cooling center that currently has no home of its own, and the everyday work of helping someone get their birth certificate so they can get a driver's license, so they can get a job, so they can get a place to live. Robyn explains why the goal at WATTS is, paradoxically, to put WATTS out of business — and walks Janet through the patchwork of partner organizations that make that possible, from Winchester CCAP to Family Promise Winchester Area to the Concern Hotline to the Winchester Police Department's addiction recovery team. Plus: the lineup of summer and fall fundraisers that keep the lights on at a privately-funded nonprofit — Caring & Sharing at Greenwood Fire Hall, the Walt Cunningham Memorial Golf Tournament at Rock Harbor, and the wildly popular Cheesin' for a Reason on the Old Town Walking Mall in November. UPCOMING WATTS EVENTS & FUNDRAISERS Caring & Sharing — Friday, August 15, 2026 • Greenwood Fire Hall • An evening of music, food, and raffles celebrating WATTS volunteers and guests, with success stories told in their own voices. Walt Cunningham Memorial Golf Tournament — Thursday, October 2, 2026 • Rock Harbor Golf Course • Lunch by Billy Sous  Named in memory of the man who got the United Methodist Church involved with WATTS. Cheesin' for a Reason — Friday, November 14, 2026 • Feltner lot at Boscawen and Loudoun Streets (Old Town Walking Mall, downtown Winchester) • Local restaurants compete with grilled cheese and tomato soup. Last year's winners: T.T. Walls and Water Street Kitchen. Over 1,000 participants in 2025. HOW TO HELP • Donate online at WATTS-homelessshelter.org • Become a Hero for WATTS — $10/month recurring (yes, you'll get free pancakes at Clem's Kitchen) • Volunteer at any of the fall fundraisers — sign-ups for Cheesin' for a Reason open in August • Sign up to serve meals during the Thanksgiving or Christmas shelter weeks • Donate or rent a building for the cooling/warming center — even nominal rent is welcome (creative arrangements have tax benefits) LINKS & RESOURCES • WATTS website: WATTS-homelessshelter.org • WATTS on Facebook and Instagram: search "Help WATTS" • Partner organizations mentioned: Winchester CCAP, Family Promise Winchester Area, Winchester Rescue Mission  • Comprehensive local resource directory — Concern Hotline (the most accurate, up-to-date list) • Winchester Police Department Addiction Recovery Team • Community Paramedic THE VALLEY TODAY with Janet Michael — A decade of conversations. New podcast episodes drop weekdays at 11 AM. Catch the show on The River 95.3 and Fox Sports 1450 AM weekdays just after noon. Subscribe and listen at thevalleytodaypodcast.com — available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts. If you enjoy the show, please take a moment to leave a rating or review — it helps more listeners find us. Connect with us: Facebook — facebook.com/ValleyTodayFanPage Instagram — instagram.com/thevalleytoday

PUMC - Platteville United Methodist Church

PUMC - Platteville United Methodist Church

PUMC - Platteville United Methodist Church

Today I'm joining in conversation with my friend James Bryan Smith to finally share something that's been in the works for over a year now. Jim is the author of The Good and Beautiful book series. A founding member of Richard J. Foster's spiritual renewal ministry, Renovaré, Smith is an ordained United Methodist Church minister and has served in various capacities in local churches. He earned his MDiv at Yale and his DMin at Fuller and is a theology professor at Friends University in Wichita, Kansas, where he also serves as the director of the Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation. About a year ago he called me up with an idea for a way to serve writers. That's where our conversation today begins. Even if you aren't a writer, our conversation will, I hope, shed light on how ideas become reality, how sometimes a good idea takes a decade to grow, and the beauty of collaboration, patience, and moving at a human pace. I hope you'll listen in. LINKS + RESOURCES FROM THIS EPISODE: Learn more about the Formation Writers Guild The Good and Beautiful Series by James Bryan Smith Apprentice Institute for Christian Spiritual Formation Renovaré FIND EMILY ELSEWHERE: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts Download The Quiet Collection app Join The Soul Minimalist Substack Order a How to Walk into a Room Download the free discussion guide for How to Walk into a Room by visiting this page and clicking the button "Discussion Guide"

Trinity Sunday: Faith, Doubt, and the Mystery of GodRev. Laura Johnson | North Raleigh United Methodist ChurchWhat if doubt isn't the opposite of faith?On Trinity Sunday, Rev. Laura Johnson explores one of Christianity's most profound mysteries: the doctrine of the Trinity. Drawing from Matthew 28:16-20, she examines the surprising detail that even as the disciples encountered the risen Jesus, "some doubted."This sermon challenges common assumptions about doubt and faith. Looking at the original meaning of the biblical word for doubt, Rev. Johnson suggests that doubt is often not disbelief, but the natural human response to encountering realities that are bigger, deeper, and more beautiful than we expected.Along the way, she guides listeners through the church's historic understanding of the Trinity, exploring how early Christian thinkers wrestled with the mystery of one God revealed as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Rather than offering easy answers, this message invites us to embrace humility, wonder, and curiosity as we grow in our relationship with God.Whether you're wrestling with questions, seeking a deeper understanding of Christian theology, or simply longing for a faith that can hold both conviction and mystery, this sermon offers encouragement for the journey.Scripture: Matthew 28:16-20North Raleigh United Methodist ChurchRaleigh, North CarolinaLearn more about our church and ministries at North Raleigh UMC.Topics Covered:Trinity SundayThe doctrine of the TrinityMatthew 28 and the Great CommissionFaith and doubtThe Nicene CreedChurch history and theologyThe Father, Son, and Holy SpiritChristian discipleshipSpiritual growth and questioning faithKeywords: Trinity Sunday, Holy Trinity, Matthew 28, Great Commission, faith and doubt, Christian theology, Nicene Creed, United Methodist Church, Methodist sermon, Rev Laura Johnson, North Raleigh UMC, Christian discipleship, Holy Spirit, Father Son Holy Spirit, church history, resurrection, biblical interpretation, Christian faith, Raleigh NC church, Sunday sermon

Seventy years ago, twelve words in The Methodist Church's Book of Discipline changed everything: "Women are included in all provisions of the discipline referring to the ministry." In our final episode of our special series, Rev. Ali Young sits down with Rev. Stephanie York Arnold, General Secretary of the General Commission on the Status and Role of Women (GCSRW), to reflect on the 70th anniversary of women's ordination in The United Methodist Church. Together, they explore the history behind those twelve words, the women who helped open doors for future generations, and the work that still remains. 

The sermon centers on the church's sacred responsibility to faithfully proclaim the King's message—the gospel of the kingdom—without alteration or dilution, emphasizing that true evangelism involves both the proclamation of the gospel's essential elements and the faithful role of the church as heralds, not innovators, of divine truth. It critiques modern attempts to adapt the gospel to cultural relevance, citing four examples—He Gets Us, the United Methodist Church's 'Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors,' the Four Spiritual Laws, and Rob Bell's 'Love Wins'—as distortions that replace the gospel's call to repentance and transformation with comfort, inclusivity, or universalism. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15, the sermon identifies the four non-negotiable components of the gospel: Christ's atoning death, burial, resurrection, and post-resurrection appearances, all grounded in Scripture and essential for salvation. It underscores the inseparable link between the gospel and the kingdom, showing through passages in Matthew, Acts, and Revelation that the message of salvation is inherently tied to the expanding reign of God, calling believers to proclaim both the cross and the kingdom with unwavering fidelity.

Thank you for joining us for our traditional Sunday service! Today's sermon is "In the Beginning . . . and Always" by Pastor Chad Anglemyer.A heartfelt "thank you" to you, Pastor Chad!

Crowhill and Pigweed drink and review a Sweet Baby Jesus chocolate peanut butter porter and discuss a question that's challenged churches and society for centuries. Should religion and politics mix?Using a collection of social issue position papers published by the United Methodist Church as a starting point, the conversation explores the history of Methodism, from John Wesley's "heart strangely warmed" experience and the Holy Club at Oxford to the circuit riders who helped spread the movement across the American frontier. Along the way, they examine how Methodism became deeply associated with social reform, including efforts against slavery, drunkenness, and other social ills.The discussion then turns to modern political issues, including immigration, worker justice, climate change, the death penalty, abortion, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Crowhill and Pigweed consider how churches apply biblical principles to contemporary policy debates, where the line between moral teaching and political advocacy should be drawn, and whether clergy are always equipped to speak authoritatively on complex public issues.A recurring theme is the idea that movements formed in crisis often institutionalize a crisis mentality. If a religious movement was born by confronting genuine social problems, does it eventually develop a habit of searching for the next great cause? And does that tendency sometimes lead churches to exaggerate modern problems by comparing them to historic struggles such as slavery, Jim Crow, or the civil rights movement?It's a wide-ranging conversation about faith, public life, church authority, social reform, and the challenges of living out religious convictions in a deeply political age. Plus, as always, there's a beer review to get things started.

Show Notes:In this episode, Reverend Dr. Kevin Muriel shares his journey from Mississippi to Atlanta, his insights on racial reconciliation, leadership in the church, and the future of the United Methodist Church. A rich conversation on history, culture, and innovative leadership in faith communities.Resources:Cascade United Methodist Church - https://cascadeumc.org/Candler School of Theology - https://candler.emory.edu/Duke Divinity School - https://divinity.duke.edu/Global Ministries of the United Methodist Church - https://www.umcmission.org/James Lawson and the Nashville Civil Rights Movement - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_LawsonTwitter - https://twitter.com/KevinMurielCascade UMC - https://cascadeumc.org/

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.

This week, Scott was joined by Rev Tamika Nelson, executive director of United Campus Ministries of Greater Houston. Rev. Nelson was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ); has served a United Methodist Church; and now works in a campus ministry affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and the United Church of Christ. United Campus Ministry serves the UT School of Medicine, HCC locations, Texas Southern University, UHD, and Rice University.   Tamika has also participated in Houston Faith Votes, so Scott and Tamika discussed her ministry with young adults and how they are talking about our current policy climate, their leadership in the civic engagement space, and their barriers to participation.  We hope you enjoy this episode and invite a friend to listen along. If you share it in your social media, make sure to tag us! To learn more or get involved, check out Texas Impact's Action Center at texasimpact.org. Get full access to Texas Impact at texasimpact.substack.com/subscribe

Text: 1 Corinthians 12:4-14, 27 May 17, 2026 Foundry United Methodist Church – Washington, DC Rev. T.C. Morrow Good morning! My name is Rev. T.C. Morrow. For the last twenty-four years I have been blessed to be a part of the Foundry community - first while finishing seminary, then like many of you serving in a variety of ways through the years, and when I formally became a clergyperson in the United Methodist Church, on the extended clergy team. In July, I will be starting as Senior Pastor at The United Church, a joint United Methodist and United Church of Christ congregation in Foggy Bottom. I am looking forward to my next adventures, but I am going to miss this Foundry community. I cannot start naming individuals or that will take all of my time, but I give my thanks to the three senior pastors during my time here: Rev. Dr. Phil Wogaman, Rev. Dean Snyder, and Rev. Ginger Gaines-Cirelli. I give thanks to God for their leadership, their guidance, their solidarity, and so much more. Today we are in the third week of a sermon series exploring foundations of Christian identity and discipleship. In a world full of competing messages about who we are, our purpose, and how we should live, we are returning to some of the core aspects of Christianity. We've already looked at our identity as beloved of God and how we are called to follow Jesus into a way of life shaped by God's love and grace. Today we're exploring the church and our belonging in it, the gathering in community of those seeking to grow in love of God and neighbor. Will you join me in prayer: May the words of my mouth and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable to you O Lord, our Rock and our Redeemer. Amen. As the U.S. nears its 250th anniversary, I've been thinking about some of the myths, like manifest destiny, that have shaped - or distorted – the direction of the country. As we gather this morning, not far from us, on the National Mall, others are gathering in what is ostensibly a day of prayer as part of activities marking the anniversary of the country. I looked at the speakers list. By all appearances, it is a Christian nationalist rally seeking to further solidify the myth that Christianity – a particular type of Christianity – is the only thing that will “save America.” I agree there is need for repentance in this country, but I think it is safe to say we deviate on specifics. I know that I do not need to repent for who I am as a lesbian and a beloved child of God. I do not need to repent for supporting my fellow trans Americans, and others who are being demonized and treated cruelly. But we do need repentance as a nation. Repentance from instilling fear and division. Repentance from greed and lies. Repentance from war mongering and violence. Repentance from the scapegoating of trans people, immigrants, non-Christians, and anyone who may be deemed “other.” Repentance from failing to uphold the common good. In today's scripture lesson, Paul names the reality of the diversity of the identities and the spiritual gifts of the community of Jesus followers in Corinth. Uniformity is not the goal; faithful interdependence is. Paul insists that there are indeed differences, and that it is only together, it is only collectively, that we are the body of Christ. Paul does not only acknowledge differences, he goes on to describe that we need the differences: “If the whole body were hearing, where would the sense of smell be?” Paul describes the need for robust diversity for the fullness of the church. Honoring diversity is biblical. Twenty-four years ago, a young lesbian couple – two cradle United Methodists with parents very involved in the church – decided to find a church home together. Logan and I wanted a church home where we could belong, as our full selves. We looked at a few options, and decided we wanted it to be a United Methodist Church, and with only a few Reconciling congregations at the time – churches that have gone on the record in support of LGBTQ+ inclusion – we ended up at Foundry. Logan quickly joined Jubilate, the choir at the then-9:30 service. Logan went to the Women's Retreat in the first year or two after we started attending, and Peggy Simpson was assigned as her roommate. It was fitting when a few years later the law changed in DC and same-sex couples could get married that Peggy graciously opened her home for our legal wedding, and then we had a celebration at Foundry with a service led by Rev. Dean Snyder. I attended the 2012 General Conference of The United Methodist Church with Rev. Snyder and several other members from Foundry. When there was no forward movement on LGBTQ inclusion through legislative change, LGBTQ+ people and allies sang in peaceful demonstration to the denomination they love and to themselves from Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you?” We walked around the communion table and sang. A table that symbolizes God's reconciling activity through Jesus Christ. In one of the loops around the table, this non-musical child of God standing before you heard a word amidst the cacophony of sounds in the Tampa convention center: Stop waiting for the denominations rules to change. Put yourself forward as a candidate for ordained ministry. We are here today, by the grace of God, with different rules on the books thanks to the tireless work of advocates including several who are in this room today. And after a roadblock or two, a Judicial Council ruling or two, I was commissioned in 2019 and ordained in 2022. While it was my name in deliberations by the Annual Conference or in news stories, I was there as the visible representative of this community that kept saying over and over to the broader church that it was getting it wrong on the treatment of gay and lesbian and bi and trans and other queer people. It was only through the support, love, strength, and organizing work of this community that I was able to go on the journey that was my ordination candidacy process in The United Methodist Church. Christianity is meant to be practiced in community. Some make a theological case for this based on the relational aspect of God in the doctrine of the trinity. Some point to Paul's articulation of the church as the “body of Christ,” where no one body part is sufficient on its own and each part depends on the others. I personally wonder – how are you going to have a potluck by yourself? You can make yourself a dozen deviled-eggs or the best jello salad, but the whole point of a potluck is that no one brings everything, NO ONE HAS TO DO EVERYTHING. Each person does their part. There are certainly spiritual disciplines that are done individually: personal prayer, scripture reading, meditation, reflection, individual acts of compassion and advocacy. But Christianity is not a solo spiritual self-improvement project. Christianity is meant to be practiced in community. There are spiritual practices that we undertake together: worship, sacraments of baptism and communion, serving together, learning together, mutual care, accountability, sharing joys, being there for each other in the tough times. In the midst of a culture that too often celebrates self-sufficiency and radical individualism, the church is a place of interdependence. Paul says to the church in Corinth: “Now there are varieties of gifts but the same Spirit, and there are varieties of services but the same Lord, and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.” For the common good. Not only for our personal betterment, but we are each given spiritual gifts for the common good. The interdependence is part of how God forms us. We learn generosity by sharing what we have, from a friendly greeting to our time to our resources. We learn humility by recognizing wisdom in unexpected places, including from a six-year-old giving a really good answer to Ms. Natalie during the children's message. We learn patience by working through differences and disagreements. Christian community is not always easy, but it is where we belong. This week I invite you to reach out to someone in the church – someone here at Foundry if you are a part of this community or of your own church community if you are visiting from another. I invite you to reach out to someone to check in with them. Maybe someone who you know has been having a particularly hard time lately, or someone you haven't seen at church in a few weeks or months. You might arrange a time for coffee or a meal, take a walk, or have a phone conversation. Plan brunch, schedule time for your kids to play together at the park, go to coffee hour with the intention of asking at least one person a few questions beyond the polite “how are you?” We live in a culture of curated images, quick fixes, and too often shallow connections. We need to make spaces where we can be our authentic selves. Where we can tell the truth about our lives. Where we can grow in love of God and neighbor. You might reach out to someone thinking that you are “helping” them, but I encourage you to be open to how God may be at work in that connection in ways you did not expect, shaping both of you. In the midst of increasing militarism and authoritarianism, in the midst of greed and lies, in the midst of racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and so much more – our way through is together. There are days where we might want to do it alone. And rest and renewal are certainly important. And individual spiritual practices are important. But as Christians we belong together in community with other Christians to learn, to serve, to celebrate, to grieve, to remind each other that we are beloved children of God, no matter what anyone says. The body of Christ is not a collection of isolated spiritual consumers. It is a people learning how to belong to one another. I am looking forward to the next part of my adventure, but I am going to miss this community. I will carry with me so much and I give thanks to God for helping be a community that affirmed that I belong in the church, and that we all belong in the church. So #KeepShowingUp for each other. Give a wide welcome to those looking for a safe space to explore big questions and bring their full selves. Teach the children that God loves them. Let others care for you, and give that same care in return. Try out being an usher, or singing with the choir, or joining the prayer team, or helping out with Children's Worship. Join a small group. Participate in one of the ministries of care and justice. Be a vessel of hope in a world that desperately needs it. Remind each other that #GodIsYetAtWork in you and through you, Foundry United Methodist Church. And may it continue to be so. Amen.

This Sunday, we welcomed Rev. Cruz Edwin Santos, Director of Hispanic/Latinx Ministries for the Pacific Northwest Conference of The United Methodist Church as we celebrated Pentecost Sunday! He shared how the miracle of Pentecost wasn't that everyone suddenly sounded the same. It was that God showed up in every language, every culture, every story — and didn't ask anyone to leave theirs at the door.

Thank you for joining us for our traditional Sunday service! Today's sermon is "The Joyful Birth of the Church" by Pastor Chad Anglemyer.

Pastor Jess continues our conversation about the United Methodist Church with a sermon about the "Wesleyan Quadrilateral." And no, it has nothing to do with geometry...

In this episode Ryan Dunn interviews Ken Willard about shifting church outreach from attractional marketing to relational, community-centered work. They explore the "fishing pond" approach, bridge events, prayer walking, and practical ways to welcome skeptical neighbors through hospitality and improved accessibility. Listeners will learn how to listen to their communities, equip members to share personal stories of faith, and create small, sustainable steps that build long-term relationships and invite new people into the life of the church. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Church Skepticism 04:43 Building Relationships for Evangelism 07:25 The Fishing Pond Model Explained 10:46 Shifting Church Communications 13:38 Listening to Community Needs 16:43 Common Mistakes in Church Outreach 20:31 Vision Casting and Church Growth 23:29 Bridge Events as Outreach Strategies 26:26 The Importance of Patience in Outreach 29:26 First Steps Towards Relational Outreach 32:27 Accessibility in Church Ministry Ken Willard is the Director of Faith Communities Renewal for the West Virginia Conference of The United Methodist Church. He is the author of “Beacon of Hope: Your Guide to Reaching, Witnessing, and Welcoming New People”, as well as books on time management for ministry leaders and discipleship pathways and leadership pathways for churches. Find episode notes, related episodes, and more resources for your digital ministry toolkit: www.resourceumc.org/mycom-podcast

Thank you for joining us for our traditional Sunday service! Today's sermon is "Open Hearts, Open Minds" by Pastor Chad Anglemyer.

These months are filled with so many celebrations—Assembly, Mother's and Father's Day, graduations, preparation for Annual Conference, and Mission u gatherings across our United Methodist Church connection. I'm looking expectantly to connect with many of you in Indianapolis for Assembly 2026, “Dream it! Believe it! Do it!” We are going to have a glorious time of worship, fellowship, and learning together. If you are unable to join us, we will make available recordings and photos to share in the future.

PUMC - Platteville United Methodist Church

We continue our special series on the 70th anniversary of the ordination of women in the United Methodist Church. Rev. Ali Young is sharing stories of call, leadership, and faith from across the Louisiana Conference. In this episode, we hear from our provisional elders, all of whom are women. Rev. Neva Joseph, Rev. Amy Castro, and Rev. Tricia Wilkinson join the show. 

Thank you for joining us for our traditional Sunday service! Today's sermon is "God is Near, and the Best is Yet to Come" by Pastor Chad Anglemyer.

In this episode of The Leader's Notebook (Ep. 311), I explore the power and persistence of the dreams God places within us. From Genesis 37, we see Joseph's dreams challenged, misunderstood, and opposed—even by family—yet God's plan moved forward in His timing. Dreams from God are not for sale; they are gifts to nurture, share, and hold fast to, even when life takes us through pits, prisons, or unexpected detours. I share personal stories from my own journey, from schooldays to university leadership, and the impact of encouragers who helped dreams flourish. This message will inspire you to trust God's timing, hold tightly to your vision, and embrace the adventure of seeing God bring your dreams to life in ways beyond imagination. – Dr. Mark Rutland Chapters (00:00:03) - The Leaders Notebook(00:00:25) - Joseph's Dreams Are Not For Sale(00:04:03) - Dr. Martin Luther King's Dream(00:08:50) - Dreams of the United Methodist Church(00:13:36) - The Greatest Dream Encourager of All Time(00:19:06) - Dreams of Others(00:23:14) - God speaks to us in dreams(00:28:21) - Dreams of Mine(00:32:42) - The scar on a girl's face(00:37:55) - God Prays for Strugg(00:41:36) - Leader's Notebook

The Louisiana NOW podcast continues its special series highlighting the 70th anniversary of women's ordination in The United Methodist Church. In this episode, host Rev. Ali Young is joined by Rev. Allison Sikes, Rev. Clair Carter, and Stacey Weber for a conversation rooted in one shared place, Grace Community United Methodist Church. Together, they reflect on how a local church can shape a calling. From serving as "worship angels" to stepping into leadership, their stories reveal what happens when a church invites people, at any age, to participate, lead, and discover their gifts. This is a conversation about mentorship, belonging, and the kind of community that doesn't make you wait your turn to serve.

Connie Johnson joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss upcoming events in Cambridge for April and May 2026. Cambridge residents can look forward to a busy spring with a variety of community activities. The public library is offering a seed library—a perfect opportunity for anyone hoping to grow vegetables or flowers, and it's free to participate. For families, there's a Kids' Movie and Paint Day on April 25th, featuring Toy Story, with registration required. The Cambridge FFA plant sale and a pork chop cookout mark ten years of their student-run greenhouse, running April 25th and 26th. Other events include the United Methodist Church's spring salad luncheon on April 30th, community garage sales May 8th–9th, citywide cleanup May 15th, classic car cruise-ins, and Spectrum Fest's all-day music on May 24th.

In Part 2 of Ralph's conversation with Tim Goodman, the discussion moves from personal calling to the realities of leading through disruption, and rebuilding on the other side.Tim unpacks the deeper theological crisis behind the Methodist split, explaining why the issues went far beyond surface-level debates and struck at the core of Scripture, salvation, and the nature of truth itself. From there, he shares the behind-the-scenes story of stepping away from the United Methodist Church—navigating tension, uncertainty, and the very real cost of obedience.You'll hear how God led Tim to Cornerstone Church in Ohio in what can only be described as a perfectly timed landing, and how he began rebuilding a culture of disciple-making from the ground up. Alongside Ralph Moore, Tim walks through the practical steps they've taken to shift from stagnant small groups to multiplying, Scripture-centered “life groups” that are creating space for real growth and new people.This is a conversation about:Leading when everything feels uncertainMaking hard theological decisions with graceRebuilding a church culture around discipleshipAnd learning to adapt models without losing the missionIf you're trying to move your church from maintenance to movement, or figuring out how to lead after a major transition, this episode is full of practical wisdom and hard-won insight.

In this special episode of Louisiana NOW, guest host Rev. Ali Young leads a meaningful conversation marking the 70th anniversary of the ordination of women in The United Methodist Church. This episode features a powerful roundtable with the Louisiana Conference's three District Superintendents; Rev. Karli Pidgeon, Rev. Dr. Frances Hooton, and Rev. Dr. Ramonalynn Bethley. Together, they reflect on their journeys in ministry, sharing stories of call, courage, perseverance, and joy. Their voices offer insight into both the progress made and the ongoing work of leadership, representation, and faithfulness in the Church. They highlight the lived experiences of women who are shaping the present and future of the Church and invite listeners to reflect on how God continues to call, equip, and send leaders into ministry today. _____ This episode is part of a special series honoring the 70th anniversary of women's ordination, featuring voices from across the Louisiana Conference who share their stories and experiences in ministry. For more, head here. 

The United Methodist Church has experienced a sharp decline over the past century, from an estimated 11 million members in the 1950s to around 4 million now. However, over 1 million of those are estimated to have left since 2022 alone, due to splits over the teaching of homosexuality. Can the Church survive? And what does this tell us about Christianity in America in general – are we entering a 'post-denominational era'?Mark Tooley, president of the Institute on Religion and Democracy – and a committed Methodist, joins Damian Thompson to discuss.Produced by Patrick Gibbons.Become a Spectator subscriber today to access this podcast without adverts. Go to spectator.co.uk/adfree to find out more.For more Spectator podcasts, go to spectator.co.uk/podcasts. Contact us: podcast@spectator.co.uk Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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"

When you picture an American church building, what do you think of? Is it a gothic, palatial cathedral that dwarfs its neighboring buildings and carries with it an air of ancient mystery? Is it a small, white chapel with a sharp steeple and a quiet humility about its presence? Or does an American church conjure up a visual that isn't all that glorious and isn't all that quaint—something like a strip mall or a sprawling campus of boxy structures reminiscent of a convention center?While many Americans might picture the latter, equating all American Christianity with the sort of no-bells-and-whistles aesthetic approach of evangelicalism, American christianity is no stranger to beautiful architecture.In nearly every American city, beautiful, complex church buildings can be found—spires, stained glass, clock towers, and vaulted ceilings are not only present in American protestant churches, they are downright common.In fact, some of the most historically American church traditions such as the PCUSA and the Episcopal Church are in possession of many of these houses of worship. But for many conservative protestants, the beauty of the church building stands in sharp contrast to the theological departure many of the mainline traditions have from orthodoxy. With many mainline traditions affirming LGBTQ lifestyles and, more importantly, calling into question core Christian doctrines such as the bodily resurrection of Christ or the authority of scripture, it has been generally accepted that theologically conservative believers ought to steer clear of the mainline and join more orthodox congregations—even if they meet in an old bank or a local elementary school.But, that position may be changing. In 2023, Christian Gen-Z YouTuber Richard Ackerman, known online as Redeemed Zoomer, began Operation Reconquista. Operation Reconquista, which now appears to have changed its name to Operation Reformation, is a movement of American Christians who believe that restoring orthodoxy in mainline churches is possible and deeply important. And they don't discriminate by denomination. Operation Reformation seeks to reform the Episcopal Church, The United Methodist Church, The Presbyterian Church USA, The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America and others. Their strategy is to have Christians join the few, but findable mainline congregations who hold to more traditional Christian views, thus strengthening the conservative minority as the progressive majority, in their view, inevitably dies out.And, though it certainly is a motivation, the movement isn't merely about reclaiming the physical church buildings. It is about reclaiming the cultural influence that many of these denominations hold in the American public. These churches often already have robust networks of service and outreach organizations, they are located conveniently in the center of American towns and they are generally well connected to many facets of American life, from local government to community events.To better understand why conservative Christians are beginning to consider joining a mainline church and why their presence just might be effective, Culture Critic Joseph Holmes interviewed Joe Colletti, who is known online as Young Anglican. Colletti was previously a member of the Anglican Church in North America, but has recently left the ACNA to join The Episcopal Church. Though he has been vocally cautious and even resistant of Operation Reconquista since its founding, he has now embraced the mainline, but with a key difference from the rest of the movement: Colletti is interested only in the reclaiming of the Church which sits at the center of historical American social influence: the Episcopal Church.

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.

The March 30, 2026, edition of The Charlie James Show centered on the massive, well-funded "No Kings" rallies, critiquing the media's uncritical praise of the movement and its exposure of an "unreasonable" Democrat philosophy. The program balanced this with sharp rebukes of established politicians, questioning Lindsey Graham's fitness for office following a Disney World vacation and discussing Mark Sanford's congressional bid. Finally, the show tackled cultural and international flashpoints, including the United Methodist Church's support for gender surgeries for minors and the bizarre geopolitical tension surrounding Somaliland's interest in extraditing Ilhan Omar.

Public outcry on the WORD talk line regarding No Kings rallies and Senator Graham coincided with shock over the United Methodist Church's support for minor gender surgeries and questions regarding Somaliland's desire to extradite Ilhan Omar.

The United Methodist Church has officially signaled its comprehensive support for gender-transition surgeries for minors. This controversial endorsement marks a significant shift in the denomination's stance on medical interventions for children and the broader role of the church in cultural debates.

Top headlines for Tuesday, March 24, 2026We explore the newly installed marble statue of Christopher Columbus at the White House, commemorating the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States, and the varying public reactions it has sparked. Next, we shift focus to the escalating tensions in the Middle East, where the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz is gaining prominence in the unfolding conflict. We'll also cover the Catholics for Catholics gala held in Washington, D.C., featuring notable speakers like Candace Owens and Carrie Prejean Boller, highlighting the fusion of religious and political discourse. Lastly, we bring you the emotional story of Pastor Wulfrano Portillo from Tulsa, Oklahoma, who has been deported to Mexico, delving into the implications for his community and the broader conversation on immigration. 00:11 US planning potential weeks-long operation to reopen Strait of Hormuz, possibly seize Kharg Island01:00 United Methodist Church, SMU to continue relationship, end lawsuit01:53 3 highlights from Catholic gala featuring Candace Owens02:35 Pastor deported to Mexico after decades of ministry03:22 Judge drops charges against woman in Cities Church case04:12 WH erects replica of Christopher Columbus statue toppled in 202005:03 High Point men united by John 15:13 ahead of NCAA winSubscribe 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 NewsWH erects replica of Christopher Columbus statue toppled in 2020 | PoliticsUnited Methodist Church, SMU to continue relationship, end suit | EducationUS planning potential operation to reopen Strait of Hormuz | World3 highlights from Catholic gala featuring Candace Owens | U.S.Pastor deported to Mexico after decades of ministry | U.S.Judge drops charges against woman in Cities Church case | U.S.High Point men united by John 15:13 ahead of NCAA win | Sports

Chad Johnson is the new reverend at Amarillo United Methodist Church. We talk about what it's like to step into a new community and a new role at the same time. Chad shares his early impressions of Amarillo, how those first expectations compare to the reality of living here, and what has stood out to him as he gets to know the city. We also spend time talking about his path to becoming a pastor, a journey he describes with a great deal of joy, honesty, and thoughtfulness. Our conversation explores the role of the church today, the broader societal trends shaping faith communities, and the United Methodist Church split that led to the formation of his relatively new congregation. Throughout it all, Chad offers a perspective that is grounded, open, and deeply rooted in care for others. It's a meaningful conversation about calling, community, and what it looks like to lead with both conviction and compassion.

Nearly 60 years ago, USC and the Greene Street United Methodist Church were caught up in a legal battle over whether the church's building could remain standing in the path of the university's campus expansion. Decades later, both sides agreed to an elegant solution. 

What happens between the moment someone feels called to ministry and the day they stand before the Annual Conference for commissioning or ordination? In this episode of the Louisiana NOW Podcast, Todd Rossnagel sits down with Rev. Sonya Lars, Registrar for the Louisiana Conference of The United Methodist Church. Rev. Lars shares how her role as registrar involves far more than paperwork and timelines. As the "caretaker of the files," she helps guide candidates through the complex process of discernment, education, and preparation for ministry. Along the way, she works with pastors, district superintendents, and the Board of Ordained Ministry to ensure candidates are supported as they discover where their gifts and graces can best serve the Church.

In this powerful global conversation, we sit down with Bishop Ande Emanuel, bishop of the United Methodist Church in Nigeria, Senegal, and Cameroon.From persecution in Northern Nigeria to reconciliation after years of division, Bishop Emanuel shares how the church in Nigeria has not only survived but is thriving. With over 900 pastors, nearly 1,000 churches, and bold new evangelistic and agricultural initiatives, the United Methodist Church in Nigeria is stepping into a new season of unity, dignity, and self-sustainability.We talk about:Religious extremism and Christian persecutionThe dramatic reunification of Nigeria's United Methodist ChurchProperty disputes, court victories, and community renewalAgricultural evangelism and economic sustainabilityWhat “regionalization” means for the global churchHow American churches can partner, not dictate, with African MethodistsThis is more than a denominational update. It's a story of resilience, leadership, and the Spirit moving in powerful ways across the globe. Related ArticleUnited Methodists in Nigeria celebrate growth and unity — UM Newshttps://www.umnews.org/en/news/united-methodists-in-nigeria-celebrate-growth-unity

Summary In this episode of Means of Grace, John Yeager explores the significance of Lent and its evolution over the years, emphasizing the importance of reflection and spiritual growth. He is joined by Reverend Dr. In-Yong Lee, who shares her experiences as a district superintendent and the challenges faced by church leaders today. The conversation delves into the practices of Lent, including fasting, prayer, and giving, and discusses the recent regionalization within the United Methodist Church, highlighting the need for community support during these challenging times. Show Note: Quietly Courageous by Gil Rendle   Chapters 00:00 Understanding Lent: A Journey of Reflection 02:57 The Role of Leadership in the Church 03:58 Navigating Challenges in Ministry 07:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 09:42 Practices of Faith: Prayer, Fasting, and Giving 12:51 The Essence of Fasting and Its Spiritual Significance 17:38 Tithing: Balancing Generosity and Responsibility 24:57 The Role of Wealth in Generosity 28:14 Understanding Regionalization in the UMC 36:01 Clergy Exhaustion and Community Support 44:43 Embracing Change During Lent 46:47 MOG-Like and Subscribe

It's Wednesday, February 25th, A.D. 2026. This is The Worldview in 5 Minutes heard on 140 radio stations and at www.TheWorldview.com. I'm Adam McManus. (Adam@TheWorldview.com) By Jonathan Clark Yemen authorities arrested 20 Christians Authorities in Yemen, a country in the Middle East bordering Saudi Arabia to the north, have arrested at least 20 Christians in recent months. For simply professing Christ, these believers can face torture and even death. The Islamic country is located in the south of the Arabian peninsula. It is illegal for Christians to publicly display or share their faith there.  International Christian Concern notes, “The arrests in Yemen paradoxically confirm what missionaries and human rights observers have long suspected: despite being one of the most dangerous places on Earth to be a Christian, Yemen hosts a growing indigenous church.” According to Open Doors, Yemen is the third most oppressive country worldwide for Christians. In Matthew 16:18, Jesus said, “On this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.” Christian Canadian fined $750,000 for opposing gender confusion The British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal fined a Canadian Christian $750,000 last week for opposing gender confusion. Barry Neufield is a former Board of Education trustee for the district of Chilliwack. He posted on social media that there are only two sexes, and he opposed transgender ideology in the schools. Neufield wrote on Facebook that the widespread embrace of such ideology has “demonized people of faith who believe that God created humans male and female: In the Image of God.” Judge fined Maryland school district for promoting sexual perversion In the United States, a federal judge fined Maryland's largest school district $1.5 million last week for promoting sexual perversity. Parents sued Montgomery County Public Schools for not allowing them to opt their children out of storybooks featuring such perversity. Eric Baxter with The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty commented, “Public schools nationwide are on notice: running roughshod over parental rights and religious freedom isn't just illegal—it's costly.” Louisiana allowed to display 10 Commandments in classrooms Louisiana can now enforce its law for every public school classroom to display the Ten Commandments.  The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued the ruling last week in favor of the displays. The ruling stated, “There can be no doubt that the Ten Commandments bear immense religious significance. … But they also ‘have historical significance as one of the foundations of our legal system.'” Deuteronomy 6:7 and 9 says this of God's commandments: “You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. ... You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” Vermont foster families allowed to affirm Biblical view The state of Vermont will no longer require families to abandon their religious beliefs in order to be foster families. The new policy comes thanks to the litigation of Alliance Defending Freedom. The issue began after Vermont revoked the licenses of two Christian families for opposing gender confusion.  The Christian legal rights group's Senior Counsel, Johannes Delphonse, said, “This is an incredible victory for children in Vermont's foster-care system.” Conservative Methodist denomination hits 7,000 churches worldwide The Global Methodist Church recently announced it reached 7,000 churches worldwide.  The denomination launched in 2022 after years of internal conflict within the United Methodist Church over human sexuality. Many theologically conservative churches left the mainline denomination since then. The Global Methodist Church posted on Facebook, “This moment reminds us that growth isn't just measured in numbers — it's found in repentance, renewal, and lives being transformed by Jesus Christ.” U.S. economy growing slower than expected U.S. economic growth was slower than expected during the fourth quarter of 2025. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis reported real gross domestic product increased at an annual rate of 1.4 percent last quarter. That's down from 4.4 percent during the third quarter and much lower than expectations.  Government spending was down during the fourth quarter because of the record-length shutdown.  Chicago man saved baby out of frigid Lake Michigan And finally, a Chicago man saved an eight-month-old baby from the frigid 35-degree waters of Lake Michigan last Wednesday.  Block Club Chicago reports 30-year-old Lio Cundiff was taking a walk along the lake at Belmont Harbor. That's when he heard a woman scream. Gusting winds had sent her stroller with her baby into the lake.  Cundiff can't swim. But he dove in to save the baby anyways. He wasn't sure how long he could keep her above water, but thankfully other bystanders stepped in and helped.  He said, “If she's going down, I'm going down with her. I couldn't live with myself if that baby hadn't made it. … If it wasn't for everyone being alert and helping, I don't know what would've happened. I'm very thankful.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Wednesday, February 25th, in the year of our Lord 2026. Follow us on X or subscribe for free by Spotify, Amazon Music, or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com.  Plus, you can get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. I'm Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com). Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

It's the 100th Episode of Honoring the Journey today!! Leslie welcomes Beau Stringer, a former Southern Baptist preacher who transitioned to mainline Christianity. Beau shares his journey from growing up in an evangelical bubble in West Texas, serving as a youth pastor at 19, and eventually becoming a senior pastor, to questioning biblical inerrancy and evangelical theology—particularly around the violence in the Old Testament versus Jesus's command to love enemies. After wrestling with these tensions for years, he left vocational ministry briefly before finding a home in the United Methodist Church in Kansas City, where he now serves at one of the largest mainline churches in North America. Throughout the conversation, they discuss what mainline Christianity is, the importance of pastoral care over conversion agendas, the shift from fear-based faith to love-centered faith, rethinking hell and the kingdom of God, and how to lovingly engage with people still in evangelical spaces without erasing or dismissing them—emphasizing humility, questions, and staying in relationship rather than canceling those who disagree.Find Beau on Substack at https://substack.com/@beaustringer Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease.Want to get updates/announcements and a FREE Deconstruction Journaling Prompt PDF? Sign up for Leslie's Monthly Newsletter! You can do that HERE.Pick up Leslie's new book, Honoring the Journey: The Deconstruction of Sister Christian here.Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team on Substack, click here! You can find her work and also support her financially if you desire.Would you like to leave a voicemail for Leslie? Click here!If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community! Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This past Sunday, we heard from a member of our church, Angela Molloy, a doctoral candidate in the joint Iliff School of Theology/Denver University program and the Disability Ministries Committee Chair for the Greater Northwest Conference of the United Methodist Church who challenged us to identify God's agapētos (beloveds) today who the Divine is begging us to listen to, including our siblings of color, Palestinians in Gaza, Disabled and Autistic beloveds, immigrant siblings, God's Queer and Trans beloveds, unhoused neighbors, and more. 

Weekly Witness is back with a new look and a new sound, as well as new content. The Texas Impact team recognizes that this is a unique moment in history, and we believe it is especially important for people of faith to lead and engage. So, we want to use the podcast to highlight faith voices who are leading in the areas of justice and advocacy. We want to give them a platform to inform, inspire and motivate us in the long journey that lies ahead as we prepare for elections and the Texas Legislature returning to Austin next January. And, who better to kick off this new season of Weekly Witness than Rev. Phil Dieke? Phil is an ordained deacon in the Horizon Texas Conference, where he serves as Chair of the Conference Board of Church and Society. He also works in an advisory capacity with the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church. He serves many other great causes, including at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with the 787 Collective and Houses of Hope, as well as president of Texas Impact's board. When most people think of Phil, they immediately think of his commitment to justice and equity—and maybe his fantastic hair. Scott had a chance to talk with Phil about the current political realities we are facing in the United States and how faith leaders and people of faith are called to respond in this moment. Phil talks about people who inspire him, who he takes his cues from (an answer that might include some familiar names), and what it looks like to faithfully live out our call to be co-creators of a world that is more loving and just. Check out the new and improved Weekly Witness and let us know what you think.       Weekly Witness is hosted by Scott Atnip and engineered and produced by David Vassallo. Our executive producer is Bee Moorhead. Theme music by Kimberly Zielnicki, Hayden Havard and Andres Garcia-Bonilla. The opinions expressed on Weekly Witness are those of Texas Impact and our guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views of our sponsors. Weekly Witness is a product of Texas Impact. Visit us online at texasimpact.org.

Weekly Witness is back with a new look and a new sound, as well as new content. The Texas Impact team recognizes that this is a unique moment in history, and we believe it is especially important for people of faith to lead and engage. So, we want to use the podcast to highlight faith voices who are leading in the areas of justice and advocacy. We want to give them a platform to inform, inspire and motivate us in the long journey that lies ahead as we prepare for elections and the Texas Legislature returning to Austin next January.  And, who better to kick off this new season of Weekly Witness than Rev. Phil Dieke? Phil is an ordained deacon in the Horizon Texas Conference, where he serves as Chair of the Conference Board of Church and Society. He also works in an advisory capacity with the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church. He serves many other great causes, including at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with the 787 Collective and Houses of Hope, as well as president of Texas Impact's board. When most people think of Phil, they immediately think of his commitment to justice and equity—and maybe his fantastic hair.  Scott had a chance to talk with Phil about the current political realities we are facing in the United States and how faith leaders and people of faith are called to respond in this moment. Phil talks about people who inspire him, who he takes his cues from (an answer that might include some familiar names), and what it looks like to faithfully live out our call to be co-creators of a world that is more loving and just. Check out the new and improved Weekly Witness and let us know what you think.   Weekly Witness is hosted by Scott Atnip and engineered and produced by David Vassallo. Our executive producer is Bee Moorhead. Theme music by Kimberly Zielnicki, Hayden Havard and Andres Garcia-Bonilla. The opinions expressed on Weekly Witness are those of Texas Impact and our guests, and they do not necessarily reflect the views of our sponsors. Weekly Witness is a product of Texas Impact. Visit us online at texasimpact.org. Get full access to Texas Impact at texasimpact.substack.com/subscribe

Top headlines for Tuesday, February 10, 2026In this episode, troubling allegations against United Methodist Church entities as two women file lawsuits over mishandled abuse reports. We also share the heartfelt prayers of Pastor John Tittle for Nancy Guthrie's safe return in Tucson, and dive into Lee Strobel's unwavering investigation into the Bible's claims and his journey toward finding them true.00:11 Women claimed UMC entities failed to properly respond to abuse | U.S.00:51 Church sparks outrage for over Harry Potter-themed service | Church & Ministries01:30 Nancy Guthrie's pastor prays for her safe return02:06 3 highlights from Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show02:50 Lee Strobel on suffering and 'The Case for Miracles'03:27 Reporter involved in Cities Church protest defends actions04:10 Jamal Bryant calls for arrest of man who protested in his churchSubscribe to this PodcastApple PodcastsSpotifyOvercastFollow Us on Social Media@ChristianPost on XChristian 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 NewsWomen claimed UMC entities failed to properly respond to abuse | U.S.Church sparks outrage for over Harry Potter-themed service | Church & MinistriesNancy Guthrie's pastor prays for her safe return | U.S.3 highlights from Bad Bunny's Super Bowl halftime show | EntertainmentLee Strobel on suffering and 'The Case for Miracles' | PodcastReporter involved in Cities Church protest defends actions | PoliticsJamal Bryant calls for arrest of man who protested in his church | U.S.

Is sharing your faith intimidating? Does the word “evangelism” bring up more anxiety than hope? Compass dives into the big “E” word—evangelism. Together with Reverend Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand, conference evangelist for the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, we challenge and expand our ideas of what it means to share faith. … Continue reading "[173] Breaking the evangelism stereotype"