Podcasts about weekly updates

Learn More about the Songwriter Initiative:https://www.cui.edu/academicprograms/christcollege/center-for-worship-leadership/songwriterMusic from the Songwriter Initiativehttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLd3R1O9BFY1fGEI6aoZfNFfB8eEYxp2-F&si=0a8D71hlAmDZCFFgIn today's episode, Tim and Jack sit down with Kip Fox, director of the Songwriter Initiative at Concordia University Irvine. Kip's research into Luther's theology of music may surprise you. Luther wasn't afraid of emotion, innovation, or new styles—in fact, he believed the Church should be at the forefront of creativity.In this conversation, we explore:- Why Luther rejected the idea that music is “dangerous”- How contemporary worship has matured in Lutheran settings- Why some popular worship songs create real theological problems- Why the LCMS may be entering a musical renaissance- How 188+ Lutheran songwriters are creating thousands of new songs- Why all TSI resources are free and made for local congregationsWhether you're a traditional hymnal purist, a modern worship leader, or someone who loves both—this episode will challenge and encourage you.Join the LCMS Current!(weekly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentSupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

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Join the LCMS Current!(weekly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentIn this special episode of Lead Time, Pastor Tim Ahlman sits down with Pastor Jeff Sutherlin to walk through the LCMS Pastoral Formation Committee's newly released SMP policy requirements—including the widely debated 40-year-old minimum age, the restrictions on SMP placements, and the implications for the LCMS pastoral shortage.Together, they process the document line by line—affirming what is good, questioning what is unclear, and challenging the church to think creatively and relationally about raising up new pastors.With nearly 600 LCMS congregations currently unable to call a pastor, this conversation matters deeply. How do we balance rigor with accessibility? Tradition with innovation? Residential formation with local mentorship? And are these new policies moving the LCMS closer to health—or further away?Whether you're a pastor, district leader, seminarian, SMP graduate, or simply care about the future of the church, this episode provides clarity, context, and courage for the conversation ahead.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo

This week we discuss how praise and gratitude has the power to impact not just our lives but those who are around us. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

Join the LCMS Current!(bi monthly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentIs pastoral formation reform in the LCMS really a “threat to the Synod”?Pastor Joe Beran joins Tim Ahlman for an honest, thoughtful conversation about fear, change, seminary pathways, SMP restrictions, and why this topic has become so emotionally charged across Lutheran circles.In this episode, Joe responds directly to concerns raised across the LCMS—especially the claim that conversations around alternative or adaptive pastoral formation models could “threaten the fabric of the Synod.”We explore what's actually happening, what people fear losing, and how the church can navigate these conversations with clarity, charity, and courage.Topics we cover:Why pastoral formation is so controversial right nowThe real fears behind “threat to the Synod” languageHow SMP changes impact large and small congregations differentlyResidential seminary vs. contextual seminary: what are we actually debating?Why younger pastors feel misunderstood and unheardJoe's experience speaking at the ACELCThe need for honest, public debate in the LCMSWhy the future may require more—not fewer—formation pathwaysHow we can preserve confessional integrity and raise up more workersWhether you're an LCMS pastor, delegate, seminarian, church leader, or simply someone trying to understand this conversation, you'll find clarity, nuance, and hope here.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Join the LCMS Current!(bi monthly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentDr. Mychal Thom joins Tim and Jack for a powerful conversation about belonging, Lutheran identity, and the future of Lutheran schools. From his own story of adoption to his leadership at Concordia St. Paul—and now his upcoming role as President & CEO of Faith Lutheran in Las Vegas—Dr. Thom brings wisdom, compassion, and clarity to one of the most important conversations happening in our church today.We explore:• The difference between welcoming and belonging• How Lutheran schools can reflect the communities they serve• What it means to be missional (not covenantal)• Why demographic shifts are an opportunity, not a threat• The simplicity (not simplistic nature) of the Gospel• How Lutheran identity can remain faithful AND adaptableWhether you're a pastor, educator, parent, or leader in the LCMS, this episode will challenge, encourage, and inspire you to see the mission of Jesus in a fresh and practical way.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo.

This week, Pastor Zac shares that when we give generously and joyfully, God multiplies what we sow. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

Join the LCMS Current!(bi monthly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentWhy do some LCMS churches thrive—and others decline?Pastor Thomas Marcis, 36-year pastor of Zion in Bismarck and a Synodical Reconciler, joins Lead Time to talk about church health, conflict, rural ministry, next-gen engagement, and why pastors must get out of their bubble and into the community.From coaching high school soccer to navigating LCMS conflict processes to preparing for pastoral succession after nearly four decades, Pastor Marcis shares practical, hard-won wisdom every pastor and church leader needs right now.In this episode:• The real reasons churches get stuck• Why conflict shouldn't surprise us—and how to handle it biblically• What suburban pastors don't understand about rural ministry• How community engagement changes congregational culture• Generation Z: what they're really looking for• Why long-term pastorates create both blessings and blind spots• Preparing a congregation for pastoral transition• What the LCMS gets right—and where we need reformIf you care about the future health of the LCMS, this conversation is essential.Catch On Fire PodcastsThis channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo.

This week pastor Zac shares that genuine generosity is the result of God's grace when we give ourselves completely to Him. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

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Join the LCMS Current!(bi monthly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentIn this episode, Dr. Jamison J. Hardy, President of the Concordia University System, joins Tim to discuss the exciting progress being made across LCMS universities — from record growth in church work enrollment to new scholarship initiatives and strategic partnerships.Dr. Hardy unpacks the $5,000 Church Work Scholarships, the refocus on Lutheran identity, and how the CUS is working with Set Apart to Serve and the seminaries to strengthen pathways for the next generation of pastors and teachers.They also discuss:- The latest on Concordia Ann Arbor- The push to unite around mission rather than division- Transparency in the “prior approval” process- What it really means to uphold “Lutheran identity”- How the LCMS can move forward together in love, truth, and courageThis candid, hope-filled conversation models how LCMS leaders can engage tough topics with both conviction and grace.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo.

This week, Pastor Zac reveals that true trust in God is proven by putting Him first, when we honor Him with our tithes and generosity. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

Information and Registration:https://www.psd-lcms.org/koinonia-gatheringThis special bonus episode of Lead Time features Rev. Dr. Mike Gibson, President of the Pacific Southwest District (LCMS), joining Pastor Tim Ahlman to announce a historic upcoming event — the Koinonia Gathering, January 7–8, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada.The Koinonia Gathering isn't a debate. It's a moment for honest, face-to-face conversation among pastors and lay leaders across the LCMS — a space for listening, understanding, and unity in Christ.Tim and President Gibson unpack:- The heart and history of the Koinonia Project.- Why open, charitable dialogue is essential for our Synod's health.- What participants can expect from this Las Vegas gathering.Whether you agree or disagree on issues like pastoral formation, this is an invitation to talk, not type — to model Christlike love in disagreement and pursue the harmony our Synod longs for.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

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Join the LCMS Current!(bi monthly newsletter covering relevant LCMS topics!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentWhat if we could see how the LCMS is really doing — district by district?Today, Pastor Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Pastor Jonathan Buescher, who compiled a comparative data study on all 35 LCMS districts — revealing surprising insights about membership, budgets, schools, and new church starts.They explore:- Which districts are growing and which are declining- How funding and schools correlate with church vitality- The future of circuits and district collaboration- Why contextualization (not compromise) is key to mission growth- What the data means for pastors, lay leaders, and the future of the LCMSCatch On Fire PodcastsThis channel does a deep dive into the scriptures so as to teach what it means to be...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo.

This week, Pastor Zac talks about how real blessing comes from generosity, not accumulation. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

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Join the LCMS Current!(sign up now so you receive the next Edition release on Thursday!): https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentThe LCMS is wrestling with a familiar question: are we keeping distinctions or breaking barriers?What does healthy leadership look like in today's church?Dr. Ben Haupt, Global Executive Director of PLI (Pastoral Leadership Institute), joins Tim Ahlman to unpack the powerful “Square and Tower” metaphor — a framework that exposes the tension between movement and institution, freedom and structure, and mission and maintenance in the Church.Together, they discuss:- Why both the Square and the Tower are necessary for a thriving LCMS- How Jesus modeled Kingdom leadership beyond institutional control- What the early church teaches us about multiplying leaders- How PLI is equipping thousands globally to lead with courage and adaptability- The dangers of over-centralization, control, and “over-resourcing”- Why the next era of ministry demands entrepreneurial discipleshipThis episode is a masterclass in adaptive, Spirit-led leadership — especially for pastors and church leaders navigating tension between innovation and tradition.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Explore Insigneo's Weekly Tuesday Morning Podcast for the latest market and economic updates by our CIO, Ahmed Riesgo.

This week, Pastor Zac talks about the conviction of the Holy Spirit and that God is not pushing you away in guilt but drawing you near in grace.  INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

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Want to stay up to date on LCMS Happenings from Pastor Tim?Join the LCMS Current: https://www.uniteleadership.org/thelcmscurrentThe LCMS is wrestling with a familiar question: are we keeping distinctions or breaking barriers?Pastor Tim Ahlman, Jack Kalleberg, and Pastor Jonathan Dinger return to one of Lead Time's most popular conversations—this time reframed around access.- What does it mean to create access to the Gospel without compromising theological depth?- How do local contexts—from Arizona to Idaho—shape the way churches live out the confessions?- And what happens when fear, control, or mistrust shape our leadership more than faith and freedom?

We were blessed to have a special guest speaker with us this weekend to share the word! INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

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Pastor Andy Greer went from fundraising for the Nebraska Cornhuskers to preaching from the pulpit at Messiah Lutheran Church. His story shines a light on one of the most controversial discussions in the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod: the Specific Ministry Pastor (SMP) program.In this honest and hope-filled conversation, Tim and Andy tackle the ongoing tension between residential seminary training and SMP pathways, the need for new leadership models in growing churches, and how to stay centered on Christ and His mission amid theological division.They also touch on the recent tragedy of Charlie Kirk's assassination, the church's response to political violence, and the call for unity in a polarized time.Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, or simply care about the future of the LCMS, this conversation is a must-listen.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

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This week, Pastor Zac shares how the Holy Spirit makes us holy by renewing our minds, guiding our actions, and forming Christlike character within us. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

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Are emotions a weakness—or a vital part of faith?

Listen to market and economic updates from our CIO Office.

This week, Pastor Zac share how the Holy spirit sets us apart by cleansing us from impurity and consecrating us to God. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

In this powerful Lead Time episode, Tim Ahlman sits down with Rev. Mark Brandt — pastor, coach, and longtime leader in the Michigan District of the LCMS. Together they tackle deep and timely questions: What do we do when our prayers feel unanswered? How do we trust God's love in seasons of suffering? And what are the biggest temptations pastors face today?Mark shares personal stories from family struggles, ministry in Frankenmuth, and lessons learned from decades of service in the church. From the viral “crosses in the lawn” movement to the challenges of grief, division, and culture wars, this conversation is both raw and hopeful.Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, or someone wrestling with prayer in dark times, this episode will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to keep your eyes fixed on Jesus.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Listen to market and economic updates from our CIO Office.

Every Christian comes to moments when this question surfaces: How do I know this is really God's plan?  This week, Pastor's Zac shares some of the ways the Holy Spirit confirms the path we should take. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

Is the LCMS truly facing a pastoral shortage — or do we have too many pastors and too few people in the pews? In this bold Lead Time episode, Tim Ahlman and Jack Kalleberg sit down with Tim Wood (Ad Crucem, CSL Regent) to confront the uncomfortable realities shaping the Missouri Synod's future.They tackle:- Why Lutheran churches have lost half their membership in 25 years.- Whether our law/gospel preaching model has fallen into a predictable rut.- The shocking case for consolidating congregations and “right-sizing” the pastoral field.- How biblical illiteracy is crippling the next generation of Lutherans.This candid conversation isn't about tearing down — it's about telling the truth in love, so we can chart a faithful future. Whether you agree or disagree, these are the questions the LCMS can't afford to ignore.Support the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Listen to market and economic updates from our CIO Office.

This week, Pastor Zac shares about being led by the Spirit into God's future, even when His answer is “no” or “not now” as He prepares us for a greater “yes.” The safest way into the future is to walk in step with the Spirit. INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

Most LCMS circuits struggle with collaboration—but not Pastor Joshua Reber's. In this success story, Josh shares how his circuit has built healthy rhythms, a thriving newsletter, men's retreats, and real theological dialogue that bring pastors and congregations closer together.In this episode, Tim and Jack sit down with Josh to explore:- What makes circuit collaboration thrive.- Why pastoral wellness matters for the whole church.- The surprising power of Sabbath rest and holistic health.- How preaching and sermon evaluation can sharpen pastors.- Why faithfulness, not results, is the ultimate goal.This conversation is both honest about the challenges and hopeful about what's possible when circuits work together in the LCMS.Sunburnt SoulsChristian Mental Health Podcast Hosted by a Pastor with Bipolar. Faith and Mental Health.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showJoin the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletterVisit uniteleadership.org

Listen to market and economic updates from our CIO Office.

This weekend, we are blessed to have Brother Andre Van Zyl with us Sunday for both 9AM & 11AM services as well as a 6PM service and again Monday at 6PM.  INFO Website: scaccesschurch.com Weekly Updates: program.scaccesschurch.com FOLLOW Facebook: facebook.com/scaccesschurch Instagram: instagram.com/scaccesschurch YouTube: youtube.com/@scaccesschurch GIVE: give.scaccesschurch.com ABOUT: State College Access Church is a life-giving, family-oriented, non-denominational church in the State College area. Our weekend service includes contemporary worship, biblical message, and age specific kids ministry for infants through children in 5th grade.

This special Lead Time episode is unlike any other. Pastor Tim Ahlman is joined by his father, Pastor Dave Ahlman, to reflect on the tragic recent events shaking our nation—the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the stabbing in Charlotte, and the weight of remembering September 11th.Together, father and son wrestle with the hard questions: Where is God in the midst of evil? How do Christians make sense of senseless violence? How do we hold on to hope when the world feels dark?Drawing deeply from scripture and their own pastoral experiences, Tim and Dave share honest grief, the promise of Christ's victory over death, and a call to courageous faith. This is a conversation for anyone searching for hope, perspective, and peace in a time of great uncertainty.

The LCMS wrestles with real division — often labeled “confessional vs. missional.” But is the deeper tension actually between Barrier Breakers and Distinction Keepers?In this episode, Pastor Bryan Wolfmueller joins Tim and Jack for an honest dialogue about the state of the Synod — and whether conversations like this podcast are helping or hurting. Together they explore:- What drives “barrier breakers” and “distinction keepers”- Why polarization happens inside the church- How confession and absolution can restore unity

Weekly Updates

Across the LCMS and beyond, the average congregation hovers around 50 in worship. Why is this the case—and what can be done about it?In this Lead Time conversation, Tim Ahlman sits down with Rev. David Patterson (Institute of Lutheran Theology) to dig into the deeper issues behind church decline and revitalization. Together they explore:The real indicators of a congregation's health (it's not money or attendance).Why many churches remain “stuck” despite good intentions.How Ephesians 4 points to a path forward—knitting the body together in Christ.The role of humility, unity, and truth-telling in revitalization.This is a candid look at the challenges facing Lutheran congregations today—and the hope that still exists for renewal through the Spirit of God.

In this episode of Lead Time, Tim Ahlman returns from sabbatical with a candid conversation about the changing landscape of ministry in the LCMS. From re-organizing senior staff and shifting governance models, to the biblical case for pastoral sabbaticals, to the urgent realities of pastoral formation, this episode doesn't shy away from the hard questions.Tim shares personal reflections from his sabbatical and his upcoming book release, while Jack dives into the tough realities facing small congregations, bivocational ministry, and the need for fresh approaches to leadership. Together they recap the Pacific Southwest District convention, explore resolutions around SMP pastors and Lutheran identity, and call the church to unity rooted in Scripture and Confession.