Podcasts about united methodist

In 2023, we spent six weeks looking at Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan—a Samaritan man traveling along the road from Jerusalem to Jericho and finds someone lying on the side of the road—robbed, beaten, and left for dead. Instead of continuing on his way (like the priest and religious man before him), the Samaritan gets off his donkey, cleans up the battered man's wounds, and takes him to an inn where he can recover. The Samaritan didn't have to do any of this. But he does because that's what our faith calls us to do—to get off our donkey and care for others, particularly those in need. We've brought back this “Get Off Your Donkey” series as a way to remind ourselves that sometimes, faith-in-action looks like meeting immediate needs, and other times, it looks like advocating for others and doing the internal work of rethinking assumptions and preconceived notions. This time around, we're exploring our United Methodist social principles. These principles aren't church law, but they represent the prayerful efforts of the United Methodist Church to speak to contemporary context. They call each of us to engage with the world around us, and to live like Jesus—compassionately working for justice for each and every one of God's creations. This week, we are taking a look at how our faith calls us to honor our mental health.

Few, if any, people are untouched by mental health challenges either for themselves or loved ones. As we observe Mental Health Awareness Month, we explore how our Social Principles call us  as United Methodists to support and care for those living with mental health challenges, as well as how we are to care for our … Continue reading "Social Principles and Mental Health: A summons to action"

When you think about core values in your workplace, what comes to mind? A few words painted on the breakroom wall? A mission statement buried in an onboarding deck? For many organizations, especially in fast-paced, high-pressure industries like the trades, core values become background noise. But if you're leading a team, here's the uncomfortable truth: your culture isn't built by what you say you believe. It's built by what you tolerate. And if those values aren't actively guiding behavior, they're not values—they're decoration. So, how do you make core values actually work? How do you turn them from empty statements into a foundation that builds trust, accountability, and long-term growth? John Knowlton has spent years helping leaders get clear on what drives their teams. With a background as a United Methodist pastor and a business coach for trades and service companies, John understands that values aren't just about inspiration—they're about alignment. According to him, culture is not defined by what's printed on your website. It's defined by behavior. And too often, leaders create unspoken double standards. High performers are rewarded—even when their behavior undermines the team. Values are quoted in meetings but ignored on the jobsite. Over time, this erodes trust and breeds inconsistency. When your team sees misalignment between what's said and what's done, they stop believing. And that's when turnover, burnout, and disengagement start to rise. But when core values are clear, consistent, and practiced daily? They become your most effective leadership tool. In this episode of The People Strategy Podcast, Traci Austin sits down with with leadership coach John Knowlton for a candid, practical conversation about how to bring core values to life, especially in trades-based businesses. Together, they unpack what it really means to operationalize core values in the everyday: from crafting interview questions that reveal alignment, to navigating difficult decisions when two values seem to conflict. They explore how to hold high performers accountable when their behavior clashes with team culture, and how to embed values into performance reviews, peer feedback, and daily communication. This episode offers more than just theory—it provides actionable tools for leaders ready to stop reacting to culture and start shaping it. Because, as John says, “Your culture is happening whether you lead it or not." Connect with John Knowlton on LinkedIn Find out more about C12 Leadership Episode 157: Second Chances in the Workplace with Michelle Cirocco

This week, we begin a new sermon series called "Gathering and Belonging" as Pastor Kristin challenges us to read the story of God's people, and especially this text of Tabitha being resurrected, as one of inclusion and belonging! 

DateMay 11, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we confront the deep human longing to be seen and explore how Jesus transforms our understanding of belonging. When biological families fall short or relationships fracture, Christ offers a radical alternative: a chosen family built not on bloodlines but on the courage to show up with vulnerability and love. Through locked doors and doubt, Jesus demonstrates that true peace comes not from avoiding pain, but from meeting each other in our woundedness.ReferencesScripture: John 20:19–31 About The Local ChurchFor 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 a textWhy is my loved one not healed? Should I pray for healing? How do I pray for healing? If you've ever asked these questions or similar ones, this episode is for you. Dr. Stephen Seamands wisely helps us understand the nature of healing and how we can broaden our understanding of Christ's healing work in our lives. Access Dr. Seamands latest book, Follow the Healer, and the study HERE.ABOUT: Dr. Stephen Seamands currently serves as Professor Emeritus at Asbury Theological Seminary, having retired in May 2018 fromhis position as Professor of Christian Doctrine, in which he had served for thirty-five years. Prior to assuming a teaching position at the seminary in 1983, he pastored United Methodist churches in southern New Jersey for eleven years.Steve has continued to teach courses for the seminary as an affiliate professor. He is known for gracefully merging the classical and the practical. His courses on doctrine and practical theology are taught with a scholar's mind and a pastor's heart.He is the author of eight books including Holiness of Heart and Life (Abingdon Press, 1990), Wounds that Heal: Bringing Our Hurts to the Cross (InterVarsity Press, 2003), which is available in six languages and Ministry in the Image of God: The  Trinitarian Shape of Christian Service (InterVarsity Press, 2005), which received the 2006 Christianity Today “Award of Merit” for books in the area of Church and pastoral leadership; The Unseen Real: Living in the Light of the Ascension of Jesus (Seedbed, 2016). His most recent book is Follow the Healer: Biblical and Theological Foundations for Healing Ministry (Zondervan Reflective/Seedbed, 2023). He has also written articles for various journals and magazinesThanks for listening to the Embodied Holiness Podcast. We invite you to join the community on Facebook and Instagram @embodiedholiness. You can find all our episodes and more at www.embodiedholiness.com. Embodied Holiness is a ministry of Parkway Heights United Methodist Church in Hattiesburg, MS. If you're in the Hattiesburg area and are looking for a church home, we'd love to meet you and welcome you to the family. You can find out more about Parkway Heights at our website.

DateMay 4, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we deconstruct the "happily ever after" myth and explore how meaningful relationships are built through intentional practice. Drawing from biblical wisdom and contemporary research, we examine five essential building blocks for stronger marriages: equal partnership, committed presence, cultivated closeness, practiced forgiveness, and shared mission. These elements form the architecture of not just thriving marriages, but all relationships that embody Christ's transformative love in our world.ReferencesScripture: 1 Corinthians 13What's HappeningAs the summer approaches, we could use your help on Sunday mornings! Find joy and deeper connection by serving to help make our gatherings happen. Learn more and sign up here.Your old bikes could become a needed lifeline through The Re:Cycle Project. Donate your old bike in any condition, or get involved here.About The Local ChurchFor 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.

Thursday, May 2nd, 2024The Arizona Senate has voted to repeal the 1864 abortion ban which now heads to Katie Hobbs' desk for signature; Florida's six week abortion ban goes into effect; Democrats win a New York special election Congressional seat; Marjorie Taylor Greene says she will force a vote to vacate Speaker Johnson next week; United Methodists repeal a longstanding rule against LGBTQ+ clergy; the Manhattan DA says they will retry Harvey Weinstein after the court overturned his conviction; plus Allison and Dana deliver your Good News.Our Guest Norm Eisen:Book: https://www.amazon.com/Trying-Trump-Election-Interference-Criminal/dp/B0D1BR9333Twitter: https://twitter.com/NormEisenWebsite: https://www.normaneisen.comBrookings: https://www.brookings.edu/people/norman-eisenFlorida's 6-week abortion ban takes effect as doctors worry women will lose access to health care (AP News)Manhattan District Attorney prosecutor says they will retry Harvey Weinstein sex crimes case (CNN)Marjorie Taylor Greene says she will force vote next week on ousting House Speaker Mike Johnson (CBS News)United Methodists repeal longstanding ban on LGBTQ clergy (AP News) Federal workers - feel free to email me at fedoath@pm.me and let me know what you're going to do, or just vent. I'm always here to listen.Share your Good News or Good Trouble:https://www.dailybeanspod.com/good/ Check out other MSW Media podcastshttps://mswmedia.com/shows/Subscribe for free to MuellerSheWrote on Substackhttps://muellershewrote.substack.comFollow AG and Dana on Social MediaDr. Allison Gill Substack|Muellershewrote, BlueSky|@muellershewrote , Threads|@muellershewrote, TikTok|@muellershewrote, IG|muellershewrote, Twitter|@MuellerSheWrote,Dana GoldbergTwitter|@DGComedy, IG|dgcomedy, facebook|dgcomedy, IG|dgcomedy, danagoldberg.com, BlueSky|@dgcomedyHave some good news; a confession; or a correction to share?Good News & Confessions - The Daily Beanshttps://www.dailybeanspod.com/confessional/ Listener Survey:http://survey.podtrac.com/start-survey.aspx?pubid=BffJOlI7qQcF&ver=shortFollow the Podcast on Apple:The Daily Beans on Apple PodcastsWant to support the show and get it ad-free and early?Supercasthttps://dailybeans.supercast.com/Patreon https://patreon.com/thedailybeansOr subscribe on Apple Podcasts with our affiliate linkThe Daily Beans on Apple Podcasts

This week, Pastor Joe shares about the disciples' experience of encountering Jesus soon after the Resurrection and challenges us to be resurrected people, not about certainty or lack of doubt, but about belief that is relationship. In a world built on fear and division, how might our faith be one that reaches out, even when it's scary? 

DateApril 27, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we kick off "We Just Click: God's Design for Meaningful Relationships," a post-Easter series exploring how authentic connections can transform our lives and world. Pastor Brent unpacks how Jesus spent his "bonus time" after resurrection not on tasks or teachings, but on being present with others—showing us that connection isn't just nice, it's necessary. He reveals four powerful ways relationships transform us: they combat loneliness, bring joy, provide support, and create space to practice love in ways that draw us closer to God's heart.ReferencesScripture: Genesis 2:15–25About The Local ChurchFor 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.

DateApril 20, 2025SynopsisOn this Easter Sunday, we explore how resurrection hope spreads not through arguments or explanations, but through personal encounter. Beginning in darkness with Mary Magdalene at the empty tomb, we discover that Easter's power lies in the moment hope becomes tangible and personal—when Jesus calls our name. This isn't just ancient history; it's an invitation to recognize resurrection breaking into our own lives and share that transformative hope with others. Like Mary's simple testimony "I have seen the Lord," our encounters with new life are meant to be shared, creating a chain reaction of hope that continues to this day.ReferencesScripture: John 20:1-18About The Local ChurchFor 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.

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhy do so many Americans believe the U.S. is God's chosen nation? And how did Protestant ideas of martyrdom, land ownership, and war shape the founding of our democracy?In this episode, Will and Josh sit down with Dr. John Fanestil, a United Methodist pastor, historian, and author of American Heresy, to explore the deep roots of white Christian nationalism in early English Protestant colonization. Fanestil traces how ideas about land, race, and theology became embedded in the American story—and how those ideas still echo today, particularly in the rhetoric of political leaders like Donald Trump.From George Washington's land grabs to Jefferson's complex faith, Fanestil offers a compelling look at how Protestant theology shaped America's founding myths—and how nationalism, racism, and religious triumphalism became bitter fruits of that legacy.

Patrick received a great question from Joanne in sunny Hawthorne, California. She's headed to a United Methodist funeral and is wondering: "Can I, as a Catholic, go up and receive their communion? It’s just bread, right?" Protestant Communion = Not the Real Presence As Catholics, we believe Jesus is truly present: Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity in the Eucharist at Mass. Protestant communion (like in the United Methodist Church) doesn’t believe that. For them, it’s symbolic: just bread and maybe juice. So, going up to receive their "communion" is kind of like saying, “Yeah, this is the same thing as the Eucharist,” which… it’s not. Why It Matters: Patrick makes this super clear: Receiving Protestant communion as a Catholic is like taking a spiritual step backwards. Imagine being invited to a royal feast… and instead choosing a snack pack. It confuses people, and maybe even yourself, about what you believe. So What Can You Do? You can attend the funeral service. Go, support your friends, be present. But when communion time rolls around, just stay in your pew or politely decline. Patrick even likens it to a Christian returning to Old Testament rituals that have already been fulfilled in Christ. It's a step in the wrong direction spiritually. Let's thank God for the Real Presence at Mass.

DateApril 13, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore pride—not as confidence or dignity, but as our stubborn refusal to embrace our human limitations. Through the lens of Palm Sunday, we discover how pride manifests in our desperate attempts to appear self-sufficient, invulnerable, and in control. The sermon weaves together baseball statistics, "scruffy hospitality," and the revolutionary context of palm branches to illuminate a powerful truth: our healing begins precisely when we stop pretending to be superhuman and embrace our beautiful, messy creatureliness. The final installment in the "Glitch" series examining the Seven Deadly Sins.ReferencesScripture: John 12:12–16About The Local ChurchFor 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.

This is a special edition of the Louisiana Now podcast, a reading of the Easter Story by host Todd Rossnagel. This reading comes from all four gospels and various translations. To find a United Methodist church in the Louisiana Conference, please visit our directory: https://www.la-umc.org/churches To find a listing of online church services in the Louisiana Conference, please visit here.  To find a United Methodist church near you, please visit: https://www.umc.org/en/find-a-church

This week on Conflict Managed we welcome Amanda Crice.  Join us as we discuss:

DateApril 6, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we join worship leader Leah Benn Miller and pastor Brent Levy for a raw, honest conversation about lust and love as part of the Lenten series "Glitch: Reframing Sin and Finding Reconnection." Through their exploration of Ephesians 5:21-33, they flip the script on shame-based theology, revealing how our deepest desires point to a God whose power flows through intimacy and mutual submission. Rather than weapons of control, both scripture and sexuality become invitations to see each other as sacred beings worthy of tender care, creating spaces where vulnerability blooms into grace.ReferencesScripture: Ephesians 5:21–33 About The Local ChurchFor 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.

It's time to get uncomfortable, says Dr. Ashley Boggan, author of “Wesleyan Vile-tality: Reclaiming the Heart of Methodist Identity,” a book that challenges United Methodists to reclaim our Methodist roots, embrace holy disruption, and live out the radical, inclusive love that defines our faith. More information and a full transcript of this conversation are available … Continue reading "Turning the world upside down with ‘Wesleyan Vile-tality'"

DateMarch 30, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore anger as both gift and glitch in the spiritual life. Anger can be holy—alerting us to injustice and moving us toward righteous action—or destructive when we nurse grudges that consume our souls. Jesus himself models this tension, flipping tables in righteous indignation while warning against harboring resentment that corrodes our capacity for love. The invitation is not to eliminate anger but to transform it: letting our rage reveal what we truly value, then channeling that energy toward healing and reconciliation rather than letting bitterness define us.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 5:17–26About The Local ChurchFor 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.

On this episode of Mormonish Podcast, Rebecca and Landon are joined by Nemo the Mormon to discuss a hot button issue in the McKinney Texas Temple scenario, the United Methodist Church Bell Tower ordinance. This issue is very easy to misunderstand so we take everyone carefully through the Fairview Town Council and Fairview Planning & Zoning Board meeting minutes step by step. Our hope to clarify the confusion and help everyone understand what actually happened with the United Methodist bell tower over the last 18 years. The LDS church seems to want to use this as precedence that would allow them to build a 173 ft tall steeple. In the simplest terms, while the town council back in the day did comment that they didn't have a problem with the belltower, they then would have followed the process to send the plan back to Planning & Zoning to work on issues related to codes like the height and decibel of the bells.Nothing was approved, nothing was signed with final signatures for height and decibel and the tower was never built. Eleven years later the Methodist church built a much smaller tower. (This episode originally aired last year but the "bell tower defense" continues to be used over and over by faithful Mormons. It's important to understand the truth.)Thank you so much for watching Mormonish Podcast!***How to DONATE to Mormonish Podcast: If you would like to help financially support our podcast, you can DONATE to support Mormonish Podcast here: Mormonish Podcast is a 501(c) (3) https://donorbox.org/mormonish-podcast ****WE HAVE MERCH! **** If you'd like to purchase Mormonish Merch, you can visit our Merch store here: https://www.etsy.com/shop/mormonishmerch We appreciate our Mormonish viewers and listeners so much! Don't forget to LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to Mormonish Podcast! Contact Mormonish Podcast: mormonishpodcast@gmail.com #mormonish #lds #mormon #exmormon #postmormon #religion #news, #ldschurch #comeuntochrist #churchofjesuschrist #churchofjesuschristoflatterdaysaints #byu #byui #josephsmith #comefollowme #polygamy #bookofmormon #becauseofhim #hearhim #ldstempleFAIR USE DISCLAIMER All Media in this video (including the thumbnail) is used for the purpose of review and critique. The images in the thumbnail are used as the primary means of visually identifying the subject matter of the video.

Top headlines for Monday, March 24, 2025In this episode, we explore the Trump administration's controversial proposal to use the U.S. military to temporarily detain illegal migrants in a buffer zone along the southern border, sparking discussions about immigration policies. Next, we discuss the financial toll of ongoing sexual abuse investigations within the Southern Baptist Convention, which have already amounted to nearly $13 million, shedding light on the profound implications for the organization and its members. Finally, we share the inspiring story of NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, who credits his unwavering faith in Jesus for helping him endure nearly nine months stranded in space. 00:11 Trump admin. considers military buffer zone at southern border01:07 Ex-Futures Church pastor granted bail after child porn charges01:56 SBC has spent nearly $13M on expenses related to sex abuse probe02:53 Christian teacher fired for biblical views on sin loses case03:44 Christian beaten by Iranian prison guard for requesting treatment04:44 Israeli hostage shares his experience with UN Security Council05:40 Liberian lawmakers mediating United Methodist property dispute06:34 NASA astronaut stranded in space: God was there in hardest times#BorderSecurity #Immigration #ChurchScandal #PastorControversy #SouthernBaptist #ChurchAccountability #ReligiousFreedom #ChristianPersecution #HumanRights #ReligiousFreedom #IsraelHamas #MiddleEastCrisis #ChurchDivision #ReligiousDispute #NASA #FaithInSpaceSubscribe 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. considers military buffer zone at southern border | PoliticsEx-Futures Church pastor granted bail after child porn charges | U.S.SBC has spent nearly $13M on expenses related to sex abuse probe | Church & MinistriesChristian teacher fired for biblical views on sin loses case | EducationChristian beaten by Iranian prison guard for requesting treatment | WorldIsraeli hostage shares his experience with UN Security Council | WorldLiberian lawmakers mediating United Methodist property dispute | WorldNASA astronaut stranded in space: God was there in hardest times | Living

This week, our Director of Discipleship and Care, Brian Fu, continues our Lent Journey with Jesus by challenging us to understand repentance and resistance as a turning our face to God and to one another. 

DateMarch 23, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we tackle envy—the belief that someone else's success threatens our own—through Jesus's parable of the vineyard workers. Envy isn't just comparison; it's the corrosive lie that another's blessing diminishes yours, scaling from personal insecurity to systemic oppression. The antidote? Generosity rooted in knowing your belovedness. When we celebrate others' wins instead of competing, we disrupt envy's isolating power and reconnect to what matters: in God's economy, there's more than enough for everyone.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 20:1–16About The Local ChurchFor 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.

DateMarch 16, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon from our Lenten series "Glitch: Reframing Sin and Finding Reconnection," we tackle the often-overlooked sin of acedia—a soul-numbing apathy that convinces us "this is just how things are." Jesus' encounter with the paralyzed man at Bethzatha reveals how we can become stuck in narratives of despair, our imaginations dried out by years of disappointment. But Jesus creates threshold moments, disrupting our cynicism with invitations to "stand up"—to crack open our shells and step into new possibilities. Like acorns beneath an oak tree, we're called to see beyond what is to what could be.ReferencesScripture: John 5:1–9About The Local ChurchFor 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.

This week, we celebrate the first Sunday in Lent and turn to the temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. Pastor Joe challenges us to journey through this season as a time of resistance against the powers of empire and to offer to the world a different way that leads to peace and justice. 

DateMarch 9, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we kick off our Lenten series "Glitch" by confronting our impulse to possess rather than receive. When we move from "wow" to "mine," we reveal the twin sins of greed and gluttony—not moral failures to be ashamed of, but glitches in our connection to God and others. Through Jesus's loving encounter with the rich young man, we discover how our grasping hands reflect a deeper grief about our limitations, and how true liberation comes when we unclench our fists. What if the path to resurrection begins with honest recognition of what's "eating at the rind" of our souls?ReferencesScripture: Mark 10:17–22About The Local ChurchFor 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.

March 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the eighth sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley's three simple rules and learning from his wisdom on money and advocacy for racial justice.

By clicking here you can anonymously (except for the last 4 digits of your number) let me know what you think about my podcast and what you'd like to hear about on an upcoming episode of Wonder Boldly. Thank you so much!In this episode of Wonder Boldly, host Christine Santos welcomes award-winning author Rebecca Dwight Bruff.Rebecca shares her journey from being a United Methodist pastor to uncovering the powerful story of Robert Smalls—a journey that led her to leave her job and move across the country to bring his story to life. She and Christine discuss the impact of storytelling, preserving overlooked histories, and the emotional depth of writing from another's perspective.Rebecca also reflects on personal grief, the unwavering support of her late husband, and the role of community in her work. With her acclaimed novel Trouble the Water earning multiple awards, she continues to champion the power of stories to inspire, foster empathy, and drive change.Rebecca believes deeply in the power of stories to inspire curiosity, cultivate empathy, and catalyze change. Every story matters.Substack: rebeccabruff.substack.comFacebook: facebook.com/becbruffFacebook: facebook.com/RebeccaBruffAuthorInstagram: rebeccabruff.authorBluesky: @rbruff.bsky.socialLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-dwight-bruff/Book - Trouble the Water: https://bookshop.org/p/books/trouble-the-water-rebecca-dwight-bruff/9114194?ean=9781633938076&next=t&next=tBook - Trouble the Water: https://www.amazon.com/Trouble-Water-Rebecca-Dwight-Bruff/dp/1633938093Support the showPlease share this with a friend who might need a little extra inspiration. Don't forget to tag @christinebsantos on Instagram! If this episode helped you in any way, please consider supporting Christine by inquiring about her Podcast Production Offers - you can dm Christine here: https://www.instagram.com/christinebsantos/ or send an email to hello@christinebsantos.com. Check out her Website: Wonder Boldly Christine is a proud Brand Ambassador for Harborside Bath and Body: https://harborsidebathandbody.com?sca_ref=7834407.5lPJ3nNEGR. Her go to small business for toxin-free and organic body and hair care needs. Check them out using this link https://harborsidebathandbody.com?sca_ref=7834407.5lPJ3nNEGR.If you make a purchase using the link Christine will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting small businesses.Thank you so much for listening. It would mean the world, if you'd subscribe/follow, share it with a friend and leave a 5 star review. It takes all of us, let's support small businesses together!

Churches are good at food drives, but not as good at food justice, claims Kathy Webb, a cradle United Methodist who has worked in Arkansas politics for decades. Kathy shares how her faith integrates with social justice as a passionate advocate who engages with her community, city boards, commissions and church to tackle pressing issues … Continue reading "Taking faith into the legislature: A politician’s story"

It's Tuesday, March 4th, A.D. 2025. This is The World View in 5 Minutes written by Kevin Swanson and heard at www.TheWorldView.com.  I'm Ean Leppin. Vietnamese Christians Flee to Thailand An estimated 4,000 Vietnamese Christians have sought refuge in Thailand because of high levels of political and religious persecution in their home country.  And now, 60 of these Vietnamese believers,  men, women, children, and pregnant women, have been arrested in Bangkok, Thailand for participation in a memorial service, involving prayer and worship.  Summit in London to Discuss Ukraine European leaders huddled in London on Sunday for a quick summit, to hammer out a peace plan for Ukraine, after the breakdown of talks between the US and Ukraine's presidents. UK and France leadership are hoping to get buy-in from President Donald Trump on their plan sometime this week. Speaking to reporters after the summit the United Kingdom's prime minister, Keir Starmer announced that “a number of countries” had agreed to commit troops to a peacekeeping force in the Ukraine-Russian war.  STARMER: “First priority of this government, of any government, is the security and safety of the British people, to defend the national interest, particularly in these volatile times. That's why last week, I announced the biggest sustained increase in defense spending since the Cold War. That's also why I met President Trump last week – to strengthen our relationship with America, our indispensable partners in defense and security. And it's why this weekend, I've been hosting European leaders here in London, to work together for the security of the United Kingdom, Ukraine, and Europe as a whole. Through my discussions over recent days, we've agreed that the UK, France, and others will work with Ukraine on a plan to stop the fighting. Then we'll discuss that plan with the United States, and take it forward together.” The European nations have also agreed to issue an arms build-up program plan at an emergency EU leaders' meeting later this week.  The US has spent $8.4 trillion for defense in the last 10 years. The European NATO nations have only spent $3.8 trillion over this same period. Thus far, over 12,600 civilian men, women, and children in Ukraine have been killed, and over 29,000. have been injured since 2022, according to UN numbers. Isaiah 2 speaks of the peace only the Lord can bring: “Many people shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob;. . .For out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. 4 He shall judge between the nations, and rebuke many people; They shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation,Neither shall they learn war anymore”  Baptists Losing the Largest Number of People Pew Research's most recent Religious Landscape Study has found the most precipitous drop off in denominational affiliation to be among Baptists - falling off from 17% to 12% of the population between 2014 and 2024. Methodists slipped 1.1%, Pentecostals slipped 0.7%, Lutherans 0.6%, and Presbyterians slipped by 0.5%. Non-denominational adherents (usually a mix of Baptists and Charismatic-Pentecostals), gained 0.9% of the US population over the same time period. The Reformed church flatlined at 0.3% of the US population. The Southern Baptists and United Methodists were the largest losers in denominational affiliates over the last ten years. 40% of US adults say they attend religious services less often than they did when they were children. And only 5% say they attend religious services more often. Millennials and Gen Zers are most likely to have abandoned the faith of their parents. About 70% said they were raised Christian, but only 41% still identify as Christian. That compares to 86% of Gen Xers raised, Christian, where 69% still identify as Christian. And, only 25% of US adults say they attend church weekly. 18% of young adults born in the 1990s and 2000s attend church weekly. 40% of those Americans born in the 1940s are weekly attenders, and 30% of those born in the 1950s attend church weekly.  Yet, Americans believing in heaven and hell has increased slightly over the last 17 years — 72% of Americans still believe in hell, and 85% believe in heaven.  All told. . . 62% of U.S. adults describe themselves as Christians: 40% are Protestant, 19% are Catholic, and 3% are other Christians. Hebrews 10 exhorts us not to forsake  “the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. 26 For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27 but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries.” Liberal Media in its Death Throes Is the mainline liberal media in its death throes? Washington Post owner Jeff Bezos has instructed the journalist staff of the liberal paper to emphasize "personal liberties and free markets” on its editorial page. That resulted in the immediate resignation of the Opinions Editor, and the loss of 75,000 paid digital subscribers, according to NPR. The paper had lost 300,000 paid subscribers when Bezos nixed an endorsement of Kamala Harris prior to the 2024 election.   US Border Crossings Dipped to 8300 in February The White House announced US Border Crossings dipped to 8,300 in February — that compares to hundreds of thousands per month recorded during the Biden administration.  Transgender Ban in Military In Effect Soon President Donald Trump's recent executive order banning individuals attempting to change their gender in military service will go into effect within 30 days. Under the order, the military must identify all transgendering troops by March 26, and remove them from military service within 30 days. A recent report counts 4,200 troops affected by the order.  These individuals have cost the US military $52 million for hormone therapy, gender-affirming surgery, and other treatment, as reported by the Associated Press.  This reported by Good News Network Verizon and ForgiveC0 Team up to Eliminate Hurricane Debt Verizon teamed up with ForgiveCo to eliminate $10 million in consumer debt for 6500 western North Carolina citizens who are still recovering in the wake of Hurricane Helene's sweeping devastation.  The North Carolina families learned that Verizon - the world's second largest telecommunications company - cleared their medical, financial, and other debts with the help of ForgiveCo, whose 'random acts of kindness' model purchases consumer debt, with no applications required.  In fact, no further action was required by the beneficiaries.   Recipients were then notified through surprise letters, emails and text messages. But, if a phone call learning that your debt has been cleared isn't exciting enough, Basketball Hall of Fame coach and Asheville native, Roy Williams, signed on to be the one to share the news with the impacted families.  Roy Williams commented on this in a recent interview. WILLIAMS: “The devastation from the hurricane specifically is the most horrific thing. People can not imagine. I saw it on TV, but when I came back to western North Carolina myself, we have a home there. There were three different ways to get to my home. Two of the roads were completely blocked and the other was one lane.... But I really believe this is my dirt. Being able to help people here is my deal.” Close And that's The Worldview on this Tuesday March 4th, in the year of our Lord 2025. Subscribe by Amazon Music or by iTunes or email to our unique Christian newscast at www.TheWorldview.com. Or get the Generations app through Google Play or The App Store. Filling in for Adam McManus (Adam@TheWorldview.com) I'm Ean Leppin feel free to email me contact@eanvoiceit.com. Seize the day for Jesus Christ.

This week at Bothell, we are joined by our friend Reverend David Valera, Executive Director of Connectional Ministries of the Pacific Northwest Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. Reverend Valera preaches from Luke 9:28-36.

DateMarch 2, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we conclude our "Holding It Together" series by exploring how anxiety festers in uncertainty and our desperate attempts to control the uncontrollable. Pastor Brent unpacks the Transfiguration story, revealing how Peter's impulse to build tents mirrors our own anxious grasping for security when facing the unknown. The good news isn't found in certainty or control, but in the transformative presence of Jesus who meets us in our fear, touches us, and says, "Get up and do not be afraid." When everything else fades away, we're left with the liberating truth that we don't need to hold it all together because we are already held.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 17:1–9About The Local ChurchFor 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.

February 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the seventh sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley still to London, where Wesley, late in life, begins to understand faith a journey of going on to perfection.

February 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the fifth sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley to Bristol where Wesley invites us to wrestle with grace & good works.

February 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the third sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley still to Bristol, where Wesley responds to his peers with a grace that leaves room for the mystery of God.

January 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the fourth sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley to Oxford where we find John Wesley, aiming for holiness, but discovering God's heart-warming grace.

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, guest speaker Brett Opalinski, a United Methodist pastor and professor, reflects on the commitment of being a witness for Christ. He explains that discipleship goes beyond belief—it's about embodying Jesus' love and teachings in everyday life. Brett challenges listeners to consider how their lives can reflect God's love and grace, showing that being a witness is not just about words but actions.    Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast. 

DateFebruary 23, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, part of the series "Holding It Together: Good News for an Anxious Time," we confront the myth that spiritual and emotional maturity means complete self-sufficiency. Through the story of the prophet Elijah's darkest moment, we discover how anxiety often breeds in isolation—and how God disrupts our loneliness in three powerful ways: with nourishment, presence, and the revelation of community we couldn't see. True growth isn't about learning to hold it all together alone; it's about discovering we were never meant to. ReferencesScripture: 1 Kings 19:1–18 About The Local ChurchFor 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.

DateFebruary 16, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we launch the series "Holding It Together: Good News for an Anxious Time" by exploring what it means to be honest about our anxiety in an increasingly overwhelming world. Pastor Brent challenges the "this is fine" mentality and examines how our instinct to avoid discomfort—through scrolling, busyness, or distraction—only allows anxiety to deepen its roots. Instead, he invites us to embrace the radical act of naming our struggles before God—not as a sign of weak faith, but as a profound expression of trust. Drawing from both modern psychology and ancient wisdom, we discover that we don't have to hold everything together because we're already being held.ReferencesScripture: Psalm 55:1–8About The Local ChurchFor 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.

DateFebruary 9, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore what it means to be fully alive to God's world through the lens of Howard Thurman's teachings and the courageous story of two Hebrew midwives. We discover that transformative change often begins with small acts of faithful resistance, whether it's a stranger's $2 gift or midwives choosing life over empire. The core message is radically hopeful: we each have a unique role in God's restoration of the world, and our calling isn't to do everything, but to do what makes us come alive. When we root ourselves in divine love and step into our authentic purpose, we join a larger story of liberation and justice.ReferencesScripture: Exodus 1:8–22About The Local ChurchFor 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.

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This week, we welcome one of our Pastoral Interns, Steph Cuthbertson, who shared from Jeremiah 1:4-10. Together, we navigated four myths of calling and explored how each of us is called to bring peace and justice into the world!

DateFebruary 2, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we dive into what it means to truly "come alive" through the wisdom of Howard Thurman. We explore how recognizing the divine spark in ourselves—and in those we struggle to love—transforms how we show up in the world. This message wrestles with Jesus's call to let our "yes be yes and no be no," inviting us into a life of radical integrity and courageous love. Drawing from Matthew 5:37 and Thurman's theological legacy.ReferencesScripture: Matthew 5:1–16, 33–37About The Local ChurchFor 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 this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, we kick off our new series called Belong, where we'll explore the vows United Methodists take to support the church with prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. This week, we're joined by Brett Opalinski, United Methodist Pastor and Assistant Dean of Methodist Studies at the Candler School of Theology, for a discussion on prayers. Drawing on examples from early Christianity and personal experiences, he illustrates how prayer can ground our lives and transform our relationship with God. He'll guide us through some practical suggestions and show us how prayer can be a transformative practice that connects individuals to God and strengthens the church community.    Find questions for discussion and deeper reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast. 

DateJanuary 26, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we explore Howard Thurman's powerful concept of "Inner Authority" and what it means to truly come alive to ourselves. Through the lens of Christian mysticism and social justice, we discover how the Holy Spirit empowers us to speak truth and act boldly in the face of injustice. Thurman teaches us that spiritual formation and social transformation are inseparable – when we learn to listen deeply to the divine presence within, we find the courage to stand on holy ground and work for justice in community.ReferencesScripture: John 14:15–21About The Local ChurchFor 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.

January 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the third sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, following John Wesley to Oxford where head, and heart and truth and grace, collide to birth new, compelling both-and expression of faith.

January 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the first sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, beginning in Epworth with the Puritan prayer that sparked a revival.

January 2025 | Pastor Michelle preaches the second sermon in a series on the history and theology of Methodism, expounding on Wesley's mother Susanna's impact on his middle way of faith, friendship, and "Catholic spirit."

In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Tiffany Coker and Pastor Jeff Cranston discuss the three major branches—Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant. They dive into their histories, theological distinctions, and worship practices. They also give an overview of Anglicanism, Lutheranism, Presbyterianism, and Methodism, exploring their unique theological and liturgical characteristics.Here's What We Discussed!00:00 Intro to Christian DenominationsThis season explores Protestant denominations, focusing on their beliefs, practices, and histories. Pastor Jeff and Tiffany introduce the series structure and outline the three main branches of Christianity: Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and Protestant.02:12 Eastern Orthodox ChristianityPastor Jeff explains the origins of Eastern Orthodoxy, its split from the Western church in 1054, and its key practices, including liturgical worship, veneration of icons, and theological emphasis on saints and Mary.04:10 Roman CatholicismRoman Catholicism, the largest Christian denomination, emphasizes seven sacraments, devotion to Mary and the saints, and the doctrine of Papal infallibility. Worship centers on the Eucharist, guided by Scripture and Sacred Tradition.09:19 The Protestant ReformationThe Protestant Reformation, led by figures like Martin Luther and John Calvin, sought to reform the Catholic Church. The Five Solas summarize its theological principles.12:22 AnglicanismAnglicanism, rooted in the English Reformation, is known for its liturgical heritage, theological foundations, and ties to the Episcopal Church.17:05 LutheranismLutheranism, founded by Martin Luther, includes diverse branches like the Missouri Synod and Wisconsin Synod, each with unique theological and worship practices.20:22 Presbyterianism and MethodismPresbyterianism is grounded in Calvinist theology and the Westminster Confession of Faith. Methodism, founded by John and Charles Wesley, includes various branches like the United Methodist and Global Methodist Churches.22:46 Preview: The Southern Baptist ConventionThe next episode will explore the Southern Baptist Convention, the largest Protestant denomination in the U.S., focusing on its history, beliefs, and practices.Resources: Blog: Quick Guide to Christian DenominationsFive Solas of the Reformation Part 1Five Solas of the Reformation Part 2Join the ConversationWe love your feedback! If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a review. If you have any questions or comments on today's episode, email me at pastorjeff@lowcountrycc.orgVisit my website https://www.jeffcranston.com and subscribe to my newsletter. Join me on Sunday mornings at LowCountry Community Church. Check-in with us on Facebook or Instagram @pastorjeffcranstonRemember, the real power of theology is not only knowing it but applying it. Thanks for listening!

DateJanuary 19, 2025SynopsisIn this sermon, we launch our new series, "Come Alive: A Series on What the World Needs," by exploring the transformative practice of "centering down" through the wisdom of Howard Thurman and the example of Jesus. Drawing from Thurman's profound connection with an oak tree in his youth to Jesus's regular retreats for prayer, we discover how intentional pause and contemplation aren't just spiritual luxuries—they're essential practices for anyone seeking to make a difference in the world. This counter-cultural message reminds us that our inner work directly shapes our outer witness, and we can't fully come alive for others until we're fully alive to the divine within.ReferencesScripture: Psalm 1; Matthew 6:5–13About The Local ChurchFor 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.