Podcasts about willow creek association

#200: Jimmy Mellado is President and CEO of Compassion International, a global ministry that is dedicated to holistic child development in partnership with local churches. Jimmy is passionate about Compassion's church-based approach to releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name. The son of an engineer, Jimmy spent his childhood in the developing world and saw firsthand the powerful impact thriving local churches can have on their communities, especially in under-resourced environments. Before taking office as CEO of Compassion International in 2013, Jimmy served for nearly 20 years as the president of the Willow Creek Association.He earned his MBA from the Harvard Business School. Jimmy is an accomplished athlete who competed in the decathlon in the Seoul 1988 Olympic Games and still retains the national record for his birth country, El Salvador, in that event. Jimmy and his wife have three adult children and grandchildren. They've been passionate Compassion sponsors since 2005.Enjoy the show!

The problem of burnout among Christian leaders has become an epidemic in recent years. I've seen Christian leaders taking emergency sabbaticals more often than at any other point in my 40 years of ministry. The souls of many Christian leaders are in trouble. How do you care for your soul? How would that help address the weariness and overwhelm many are experiencing? I'll be talking about soul care with our guest today, Mindy Caliguire, on the Unhurried Living podcast. Mindy Caliguire is the co-founder and president of Soul Care. In the past, she has served in executive leadership at Gloo, and the Willow Creek Association (now the Global Leadership Network). She speaks into and advises organizations including Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and many churches and ministries across the US and beyond. Mindy's books include: Discovering Soul Care Spiritual Friendship STIR The book we're talking about today, Ignite Your Soul. ____________________________________________________________ Connect with Alan on LinkedIn or learn more about Unhurried Living programs on their website.  Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

What does it look like to have a healthy soul? Our guest today wrestled with this question and found answers in the midst of her own season of burnout in ministry and fundraising. Mindy Caliguire offers vision and practical encouragement for you as you persevere in your own ministry and fundraising. Mindy is the co-founder and president of Soul Care. In the past, she has served in executive leadership at Gloo (www.gloo.us), and the Willow Creek Association (now Global Leadership Network). She speaks and advises into organizations including Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and many churches and ministries across the US and beyond. Mindy's books include Discovering Soul Care, Spiritual Friendship, STIR and Ignite Your Soul (September '24).The Soul Care website has a wealth of resources available - including free assessments and courses (like the Confronting Burnout course we mentioned). Check it out!

Mindy is the co-founder and president of Soul Care. In the past has served in executive leadership at Gloo, and the Willow Creek Association (now Global Leadership Network). She speaks and advises into organizations including Compassion International, ECFA, National Christian Foundation, and many churches and ministries across the US and beyond. Mindy's books include Discovering Soul Care, Spiritual Friendship, STIR and Ignite Your Soul (September '24).

Jon Jorgenson joins us for Chasing God Night Three. Jon is an author, speaker, and spoken word poet whose YouTube videos have been viewed by more than 20 million people. Jon partners with numerous organizations including Awana International, Moody Bible Institute, the Willow Creek Association, and hundreds of other churches, colleges, and conferences all over the globe. His spoken word poetry provides a dynamic and creative experience that captures the imagination of audiences everywhere. As a former Broadway actor, Chicago native, and very lucky husband, Jon hopes to provide a fresh, unique voice to some of life’s most difficult and challenging questions. Full Service

Show Notes   Today I will be chatting with my good friend, John Pearson, who calls himself a master, but not like you might think. John calls himself a master of mistake-making. Yikes! Just a bit on John Pearson… John is a board governance and management consultant from San Clemente, California. He served more than 30 years as a nonprofit ministry CEO, 25 of those years as the CEO of three national/international associations, including The Willow Creek Association and Christian Management Association (now Christian Leadership Alliance). John is also the author 10 books on board governance and leadership development, with an emphasis on leadership at the highest levels in an organization. With that, let's welcome author, CEO, consultant, and non-profit guru, John Pearson. LINKS For more on John Pearson visit his website at https://www.managementbuckets.com/about  

Mark Mittelberg is a bestselling author, international speaker, and the Executive Director of The Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University (StrobelCenter.com), which offers accredited online BA and MA degrees, as well as certificate courses. Mark recently completed the all-new book and training course, Contagious Faith: Discover Your Natural Style for Sharing Jesus with Others. Prior to that, he was the primary author of the Becoming a Contagious Christian training course (with Lee Strobel). This course was translated into more than twenty languages and helped nearly two million people around the world share Christ in natural ways. He then wrote the leadership-oriented book, Becoming a Contagious Church, which presents an innovative blueprint for church-based evangelism. Mark's published materials also include the Making Your Case for Christ training course, and The Case for Christ Daily Moment of Truth devotional (both with Lee Strobel). His book Confident Faith was the winner of Outreach Magazine's apologetics book of the year. His smaller evangelistic book, The Reason Why Faith Makes Sense, is an update of a classic that touched millions of lives — recreated by Mark for a new generation. He also wrote The Questions Christians Hope No One Will Ask (with Answers), which addresses the ten spiritual questions believers most want to avoid. Prior to that Mark collaborated with Strobel to produce The Unexpected Adventure, a story-based book designed to encourage Christians to seize everyday opportunities to talk about Jesus. Mark's published pieces have sold a total of some three million copies. Mark was the original evangelism director at Willow Creek Community Church in Chicago, and then served as Executive Vice President of the Willow Creek Association. He was also an editorial consultant and periodic guest for Lee Strobel's television show, Faith Under Fire. He and Strobel have been ministry partners for more than thirty years. After receiving an undergraduate degree in business, Mark earned an MA in Philosophy of Religion, graduating magna cum laude from Trinity International University in Deerfield, Illinois. In addition, he received an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Southern Evangelical Seminary in Charlotte, North Carolina. Mark and Heidi live near Denver, Colorado, and are the parents of Emma Jean and Matthew, both of whom serve in ministry roles. Find Missions Pulse episode #94 on our website at https://davidjoannes.com/094markmittelberg/

On today's program, we have updates on the situation at Grove City College.  The Global Leadership Network – formerly known as the Willow Creek Association -- makes a comeback.  And disgraced megachurch pastor Jack Schaap, convicted of sex crimes more than a decade ago, gets an early release from prison.  We begin today with news that a controversial “discernment blogger” has been charged with DUI and for carrying a weapon. I want you to know that this program wouldn't exist without the support of people like you.  We take no money from the ministries we cover.  We don't charge a subscription or have a paywall.  We are 100 percent donor supported.  If you'd like to make a donation so that our work can continue, please go to MinistryWatch.com and hit the donate button at the top of the page.  And now, you can now give via text. If this is your preferred way of giving, just text @ministrywatch to 52014.  Again, that's @ministrywatch to 52014. If you have a story you'd like us to cover, or a ministry that you think needs a closer look, please email us.  Our email is info@ministrywatch.com.  That will come directly to my desk, and we'll take it from there. Also, a reminder that you can help the program by leaving us a rating on your podcast app.  The  more ratings we get, the easier it is for others to find us.  It's a quick, easy, and free way you can support MinistryWatch. The producers for today's program are Rich Roszel and Jeff McIntosh.  We get database and other technical support from Cathy Goddard, Stephen DuBarry, Emily Kern, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth.  Writers who contributed to today's program include Anne Stych, Kim Roberts, John Stonestreet and Shane Morris, Kathryn Post, Alejandra Molina, Calvin Cockrell, Bob Smietana, and Christina Darnell. Special thanks to BreakPoint, The NonProfit Times, and Christian Chronicle for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.

On today's program, we have updates on the situation at Grove City College.  The Global Leadership Network – formerly known as the Willow Creek Association -- makes a comeback.  And disgraced megachurch pastor Jack Schaap, convicted of sex crimes more than a decade ago, gets an early release from prison.  We begin today with news that a controversial “discernment blogger” has been charged with DUI and for carrying a weapon. I want you to know that this program wouldn't exist without the support of people like you.  We take no money from the ministries we cover.  We don't charge a subscription or have a paywall.  We are 100 percent donor supported.  If you'd like to make a donation so that our work can continue, please go to MinistryWatch.com and hit the donate button at the top of the page.  And now, you can now give via text. If this is your preferred way of giving, just text @ministrywatch to 52014.  Again, that's @ministrywatch to 52014. If you have a story you'd like us to cover, or a ministry that you think needs a closer look, please email us.  Our email is info@155.138.219.249.  That will come directly to my desk, and we'll take it from there. Also, a reminder that you can help the program by leaving us a rating on your podcast app.  The  more ratings we get, the easier it is for others to find us.  It's a quick, easy, and free way you can support MinistryWatch. The producers for today's program are Rich Roszel and Jeff McIntosh.  We get database and other technical support from Cathy Goddard, Stephen DuBarry, Emily Kern, Rod Pitzer, and Casey Sudduth.  Writers who contributed to today's program include Anne Stych, Kim Roberts, John Stonestreet and Shane Morris, Kathryn Post, Alejandra Molina, Calvin Cockrell, Bob Smietana, and Christina Darnell. Special thanks to BreakPoint, The NonProfit Times, and Christian Chronicle for contributing material for this week's podcast. Until next time, may God bless you.

Host: Steve Macchia, Guest: John Pearson “Once you taste spiritual discernment, you won't want to go back to the old way of decision-making.” –John Pearson John Pearson is a leadership and management consultant, who formerly served as CEO of the Willow Creek Association, Christian Camp and Conference Association, and Christian Leadership Alliance. His “Weekly Staff Meeting” email reviews at least one book per week, including The Discerning Life (sign up at www.managementbuckets.com). He shares with us heart-warming stories about how his life has been transformed by spiritual discernment. He reminds us of the importance of having people on our leadership teams who understand discernment and want to respond to God's desires and hear God's voice, urging us to focus on depth instead of #'s. Board Prayer: You can download the Board Prayer John mentions in this episode via the show notes page on the website here. Join the conversation about spiritual discernment as a way of life at www.LeadershipTransformations.org and consider participation in our online and in-person program offerings. Additional LTI spiritual formation resources can be found at www.SpiritualFormationStore.com and www.ruleoflife.com and www.healthychurch.net.

Dr. Bill Donahue, author and executive coach, talks about the benefits of coaching for church leaders, corporate C level leaders, and small group leaders. Drawing from his years of experience in education, ministry, and executive coaching. Bill served Willow Creek Community Church and the Willow Creek Association for 18 years.

“People who don't take risks generally make about two big mistakes a year,” says Peter Drucker. “People who do take risks generally make about two big mistakes a year.” In other words, one way or another, you're going to make mistakes. The only question is whether you make them well. In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I'm talking to John Pearson about how to make mistakes well. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. John Pearson served more than 30 years as a nonprofit CEO at organizations such as the Christian Camp and Conference Association, the Global Leadership Network of the Willow Creek Association, and the Christian Leadership Alliance. He is author, most recently, of Mastering Mistake-Making: My 25 Memorable Mistakes — and What I Learned. ----- This episode of the Influence Podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of Bible Engagement Project. Most people have access to the Bible, but few regularly engage with it. Bible Engagement Project equips churches with digital Bible study resources to help people of all ages read and understand Scripture so they can become more like Jesus and live radically changed lives. Bible Engagement Project is available in both English and Spanish. Visit BibleEngagementProject.com to learn more.

In this episode, Rob and Lance interview Nancy Beach. Nancy Beach is most known for her groundbreaking ministry to more fully unleash the arts in the local church, and for leading artists with grace, wisdom, and skill. For over 20 years she served as the Programming Director of Willow Creek Community Church in suburban Chicago, building a community of artists who sought to create transformational moments in weekend church services. Nancy also served as a Teaching Pastor, periodically bringing the weekend message. She invested five years as a leadership team member of the Willow Creek Association, an organization that exists to envision and inspire church leaders all over the world. In over 26 countries and on 6 continents, Nancy has shared her passion, teaching at conferences and workshops.

On this episode, we are joined by Sandra Maria Van Opstal, author of The Next Worship and Co-Founder and Executive Director of Chasing Justice, a movement led by people of color to mobilize a lifestyle of faith and justice. We look at the failure of the multi-ethnic church movement, and we ask the question, “What does a multiethnic/multiracial church look like when whiteness is decentered?”Support the Mestizo Podcast by giving today.Have a question you want answered on the podcast? Leave us a message at 312-725-2995. Leave us a 30 second voicemail with your name, city, y pregunta and we'll discuss it on the last episode of the season. You can also submit a question using the form on this page.About Sandra Maria Van OpstalSandra holds a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and is a Doctoral Candidate at North Park Seminary. Her teaching has also been featured at Wheaton College, North Park University, Liberating Evangelicalism Conference, The Justice Conference, Evangelical Covenant conferences, Willow Creek Association conferences, and various churches. Her most recent books include Rally: Communal Prayers for the Lovers of Jesus and Justice, A Rhythm of Prayer, Still Evangelical, and The Next Worship.Follow Sandra's work at https://chasingjustice.com/

In this episode, our host, Claire, is joined by Jenny Booth Potter. Jenny is the Co-Host and Producer of The Next Question, a video-based web-series devoted to expanding the imagination for racial justice. In the first season, the show has already hosted conversations with Nikole Hannah-Jones, Rachel Cargle, Andre Henry, and Brené Brown, and includes co-hosts Austin Channing Brown and Chi Chi Okwu. You can find out more about The Next Question at www.tnqshow.com. In addition, Jenny has led anti-racism trainings for churches and spoken at conferences such as CCDA, FILO, and the World Vision Pastor’s Gathering. She is also on staff at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL as a creative producer where she writes, develops, directs, and produces creative content for Willow Creek Community Church and the Willow Creek Association. She enjoys creating spaces for people to connect and be transformed by the power of story. Listen on, beloveds, and as you listen, breathe, expand, grow, learn, transform.

As a special bonus for our listeners, we have created a series to commemorate Inverse Podcast co-host Dr Drew Hart's brand new book Who Will Be a Witness: Igniting Activism For God's Justice, Love and Deliverance. In these additional episodes we will interview friends and co-workers to discuss chapter by chapter Drew's new book. These conversations were recorded in community with friends from around the world as past of Inverse's ongoing work to create formation experiences that deepen our witness to God's justice, love and deliverance. Who Will Be a Witness offers a vision for communities of faith to organize for deliverance and justice in their neighborhoods, states, and nation as an essential part of living out the call of Jesus. Drew provides incisive insights into Scripture and history, along with illuminating personal stories, to help us identify how the witness of the church has become mangled by Christendom, white supremacy, and religious nationalism. He provides a wide range of options for congregations seeking to give witness to Jesus' ethic of love for and solidarity with the vulnerable. At a time when many feel disillusioned and distressed, Drew calls the church to action, offering a way forward that is deeply rooted in the life and witness of Jesus. Drew's testimony is powerful, personal, and profound, serving as a compass that points the church to the future and offers us a path toward meaningful social change and a more faithful witness to the way of Jesus. (Buy Drew's new book here.) This fifth conversation discusses Chapter Six of Who Will Be a Witness with pastor, activist, worship leader and author Sandra Maria Van Opstal. Sandra Maria Van Opstal, a second-generation Latina, pastors at Grace and Peace Community on the west-side of Chicago. She is a preacher, liturgist and activist who re-imagining the intersection of worship and justice. In her fifteen years with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Sandra mobilized thousands of college students for God’s mission of reconciliation and justice in the world. Sandra served as Director of Worship for the Urbana Missions Conference, Chicago Urban Program Director, Latino National Leadership Team (LaFe), and Northwestern University Team leader (Multiethnic fellowship). Sandra’s influence has also reached many others through her leadership and preaching on topics such of worship and formation, justice, racial identity and reconciliation, and global mission. She has been featured at Wheaton College, North Park University, The Justice Conference, Evangelical Covenant conferences, Willow Creek Association conferences, and various churches. Sandra serves as a board member for Evangelicals for Justice and the Christian Community Development Association. Sandra was also the Worship Director for the IFES World Assemblyin Mexico 2015, Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering in Jarkarta 2016 and Global Gathering in South Africa 2018. In addition to her ministry experience, Sandra holds a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois and has been published in multiple journals. She has authored God’s Graffiti Devotional, Still Evangelical, The Mission of Worship *and *The Next Worship. Follow Sandra on Twitter and Instagram @sandravanopstal. Follow Drew Hart on Instagram and Twitter @druhart. Follow Jarrod McKenna on Instagram and Twitter @jarrodmckenna

As a special bonus for our listeners, we have created a series to commemorate Inverse Podcast co-host Dr Drew Hart's brand new book Who Will Be a Witness: Igniting Activism For God's Justice, Love and Deliverance. In these additional episodes we will interview friends and co-workers to discuss chapter by chapter Drew's new book. These conversations were recorded in community with friends from around the world as past of Inverse's ongoing work to create formation experiences that deepen our witness to God's justice, love and deliverance. Who Will Be a Witness offers a vision for communities of faith to organize for deliverance and justice in their neighborhoods, states, and nation as an essential part of living out the call of Jesus. Drew provides incisive insights into Scripture and history, along with illuminating personal stories, to help us identify how the witness of the church has become mangled by Christendom, white supremacy, and religious nationalism. He provides a wide range of options for congregations seeking to give witness to Jesus' ethic of love for and solidarity with the vulnerable. At a time when many feel disillusioned and distressed, Drew calls the church to action, offering a way forward that is deeply rooted in the life and witness of Jesus. Drew's testimony is powerful, personal, and profound, serving as a compass that points the church to the future and offers us a path toward meaningful social change and a more faithful witness to the way of Jesus. (Buy Drew's new book here.) This fifth conversation discusses Chapter Six of Who Will Be a Witness with pastor, activist, worship leader and author Sandra Maria Van Opstal. Sandra Maria Van Opstal, a second-generation Latina, pastors at Grace and Peace Community on the west-side of Chicago. She is a preacher, liturgist and activist who re-imagining the intersection of worship and justice. In her fifteen years with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Sandra mobilized thousands of college students for God's mission of reconciliation and justice in the world. Sandra served as Director of Worship for the Urbana Missions Conference, Chicago Urban Program Director, Latino National Leadership Team (LaFe), and Northwestern University Team leader (Multiethnic fellowship). Sandra's influence has also reached many others through her leadership and preaching on topics such of worship and formation, justice, racial identity and reconciliation, and global mission. She has been featured at Wheaton College, North Park University, The Justice Conference, Evangelical Covenant conferences, Willow Creek Association conferences, and various churches. Sandra serves as a board member for Evangelicals for Justice and the Christian Community Development Association. Sandra was also the Worship Director for the IFES World Assemblyin Mexico 2015, Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering in Jarkarta 2016 and Global Gathering in South Africa 2018. In addition to her ministry experience, Sandra holds a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois and has been published in multiple journals. She has authored God's Graffiti Devotional, Still Evangelical, The Mission of Worship *and *The Next Worship. Follow Sandra on Twitter and Instagram @sandravanopstal. Follow Drew Hart on Instagram and Twitter @druhart. Follow Jarrod McKenna on Instagram and Twitter @jarrodmckenna

If you've ever felt lost in a transition in life--whether it's a change you've initiated or a change that's come to you--then you do not want to miss this episode with Nancy Beach (http://www.nancylbeach.com/books), author, speaker and leadership coach.  Nancy has shepherded me through multiple leadership transitions in my own life and has been a pioneer and trailblazer as a woman in ministry and in living out the gospel through her life, including in her role of breaking the silence of abuse and coverup with Bill Hybels at Willow Creek Church. (http://www.nancylbeach.com/blog/myresponsetotheapology) Together, Nancy and I talk about: What it feels like to "jump" out of a season and into the unknown How hard seasons prepare you for the future The three distinct seasons of transition & change Why the "neutral" zone is the most unsettling part of change How to handle loss well Also, I really do fangirl over Nancy for several minutes because that's how much she's meant to me over my entire ministry career...cannot wait for you all to learn from her and appreciate her wisdom like I have!! Resources: Transitions by William Bridges (https://www.amazon.com/Transitions-Making-Changes-Revised-Anniversary/dp/073820904X) The Way of Transitions by William Bridges (https://www.amazon.com/Way-Transition-Embracing-Difficult-Moments/dp/073820529X) The Land Between by Jeff Manion (https://www.christianbook.com/land-between-finding-god-difficult-transitions/jeff-manion/9780310318668/pd/318668?en=google&event=SHOP&kw=books-0-20%7C318668&p=1179710&dv=c&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8rT8BRCbARIsALWiOvQb4tVUq_VKAG6JsqvlMk516iHR2lFj16uVJAbkesDVPY2IF-oJ6jAaArLKEALw_wcB) Falling Upward by Richard Rohr (https://www.amazon.com/Falling-Upward-Spirituality-Halves-Life/dp/0470907754/ref=sr_1_2?crid=32VVHADLOI2QG&dchild=1&keywords=falling+upward+by+richard+rohr&qid=1603135524&s=books&sprefix=falling+upward%2Cstripbooks%2C137&sr=1-2) _Nancy Beach is most known for her groundbreaking ministry to more fully unleash the arts in the local church, and for leading artists with grace, wisdom, and skill.  For over 20 years she served as the Programming Director of Willow Creek Community Church in suburban Chicago, building a community of artists who sought to create transformational moments in weekend church services. Nancy also served as a Teaching Pastor, periodically bringing the weekend message.  She invested five years as a leadership team member of the Willow Creek Association, an organization that exists to envision and inspire church leaders all over the world. In over 26 countries and on 6 continents, Nancy has shared her passion, teaching at conferences and workshops. In her book, An Hour on Sunday, Nancy expresses the core vision and values which she believes are foundational to any effective arts ministry. Nancy's second book is titled: Gifted to Lead: The Art of Leading as a Woman in the Church._

In this episode, host Erin has a conversation with Sandra Van Opstal that challenges some of the narratives about diversity, inclusion, and unity. Sandra is a second-generation Latina and a pastor at Grace and Peace Community on the west-side of Chicago.  She is a preacher, liturgist and activist who is re-imagining the intersection of worship and justice.In her fifteen years with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Sandra mobilized thousands of college students for God’s mission of reconciliation and justice in the world. Sandra served as Director of Worship for the Urbana Missions Conference, Chicago Urban Program Director, Latino National Leadership Team (LaFe), and Northwestern University Team leader (Multiethnic fellowship).Sandra’s influence has also reached many others through her leadership and preaching on topics such of worship and formation, justice, racial identity and reconciliation, and global mission. She has been featured at Wheaton College, North Park University, The Justice Conference, Evangelical Covenant conferences, Willow Creek Association conferences, and various churches.  Sandra serves as a board member for Evangelicals for Justice and the Christian Community Development Association.  Sandra was also the Worship Director for the IFES World Assemblyin Mexico 2015,  Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering in Jarkarta 2016 and Global Gathering in South Africa 2018. She is also the Executive director and Co-founder of Chasing Justice In addition to her ministry experience, Sandra holds a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois and has been published in multiple journals. She has authored God’s Graffiti Devotional, Still Evangelical, The Mission of Worship and The Next Worship.In this episode, Erin quotes from the book Prophetic Lament, which is also highly recommended. 

Today we have an interview with Jon Jogenson. Jon Jorgenson is an author, speaker, and spoken word poet whose YouTube videos have been viewed by more than 15 million people. Jon partners with numerous organizations including Awana International, Moody Bible Institute, the Willow Creek Association, and hundreds of other churches, colleges, and conferences all over the globe. His spoken word poetry provides a dynamic and creative experience that captures the imagination of audiences everywhere. As a former Broadway actor, Chicago native, and very lucky husband, Jon hopes to provide a fresh, unique voice to some of life’s most difficult and challenging questions.

Wesley Kenneth “Wess” Stafford (born June 26, 1949) is the former president and CEO of Compassion International and an advocate for children. Stafford is the author of two books, Too Small to Ignore and Just a Minute, and until August 2015 hosted the daily national radio short feature Speak Up With Compassion®. As a part of his position with Compassion, and his advocacy for children, Stafford is often invited to speak to audiences around the world. In 2008, Stafford was a guest of President George W. Bush and his wife Laura at a State Dinner. In 2009, Stafford spoke at the Willow Creek Association’s Global Leadership Summit alongside Bill Hybels, Henry Cloud, Patrick Lencioni, Tony Blair and Bono. In September 2013, Stafford retired from his position of President and CEO of Compassion International, giving that title to Santiago “Jimmy” Mellado. Wess currently serves as President Emeritus, continuing to travel and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.

Sharon Swing is the co-author of Listen to My Life; Maps for Recognizing and Responding to God in my Story. Today she shares how listening and life maps aided her in her own journey and how she adapted it to help others in their journeys as well. Through multiple experiences she found where she was meant to be and how she could help people push on from where they are right now. She gives some of her tricks to life mapping and encourages us all to reflect on our own journeys. Listen to Sharon's story today! Stories Sharon shared: Growing up in the NW suburbs of Chicago in a Christian family How a baptism service captured her heart The experience that brought her to tears after college A charismatic experience that changed her life Why experiences needs to be added to how we learn about God Her first lesson in listening to the Holy Spirit Entering ministry at Willow Creek Association and then having to leave How she was inspired to create Listen to My Life The story that made her cry and helped her realize why she has to keep going Great quotes from Sharon: My experience was God was a cosmic line judge waiting to tell me if I was in or out of bounds. Our box for God is so small and so confided… and God kinda blows the sides off of it on a regular basis. God always met me very invitationally, lovingly and humorously. It's a seismic shift in perspective from discontent to contentment. Resources we mentioned: OneLife Maps website OneLife Maps on Facebook The Critical Journey, Stages in the Life of Faith, Second Edition by Janet O. Hagberg and Robert A. Guelich A Listening Heart by David Steindl-Rast One Life Maps Podcast Refresh your relationship with Jesus by changing your relationship with the Bible. Try my brand new Bible experience, Jesus is Willing: An 8 Day Experience. The post Sharon Swing and How to Listen to Your Life appeared first on Eric Nevins.

In this episode, Natasha speaks with Nancy Beach about mentoring and leadership. They discuss the #MeToo and #ChurchToo Movements, women in leadership, what pastors need to know, and their hope for the future. Nancy Beach is most known for her groundbreaking ministry to more fully unleash the arts in the local church, and for leading artists with grace, wisdom, and skill. For over 20 years she served as the Programming Director of Willow Creek Community Church in suburban Chicago, building a community of artists who sought to create transformational moments in weekend church services. Nancy also served as a Teaching Pastor, periodically bringing the weekend message. She invested five years as a leadership team member of the Willow Creek Association, an organization that exists to envision and inspire church leaders all over the world. In over 26 countries and on 6 continents, Nancy has shared her passion, teaching at conferences and workshops. Show notes are available at A Sista's Journey blog. Show notes are available at A Sista's Journey blog. See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Without interruption, every church has the potential to go through a very similar life cycle. Most start, grow, thrive, lose momentum, decline and eventually end-but that’s not God’s plan for the church. Churches can get stuck in any phase of growth on their way to sustained health. They can also get stuck sliding down the other side of the life cycle, experiencing the pain of ineffectiveness and decline. Our data has found 80% of churches are plateaued or in decline. Join Tony Morgan for an honest, practical conversation about what it takes to get unstuck. Tony is founder and chief strategic officer of The Unstuck Group, a company that helps churches get unstuck through consulting and coaching experiences designed to focus on vision, strategy and action. For 14 years, Tony served on the senior leadership teams at West Ridge Church in Dallas, Georgia, NewSpring church in South Carolina, and Granger Community church in Indiana. He’s written several books, as well as articles that have been featured with the Willow Creek Association, Catalyst and Pastors.com. He writes about leadership regularly at tonymorganlive.com His latest book, The Unstuck Church: Equipping Churches to Experience Sustained Health, is available from Thomas Nelson.

Note: Listeners interested in the issues raised by the Bill Hybels allegations may also be interested in Episode 102: When You Hear Sexual Misconduct Allegations About Your Pastor or Episode 80: Supporting the Opposite Gender in the Christian Workplace. Last year, Willow Creek Community Church founder and lead pastor Bill Hybels announced he was passing the baton to two heirs and would be retiring in October 2018. A lot has changed in 10 months. Since that announcement, 10 women have accused Hybels of misconduct. Earlier this week, The New York Times reported that one of leader’s former assistants accused the Willow Creek founder of repeatedly groping her. And on Sunday, Steve Carter, whom Hybels who indicated would succeed him as teaching pastor, announced his resignation. All of this occurred several days before Willow’s Global Leadership Summit, an annual event hosted at Willow’s Barrington campus and streamed at hundreds of locations around the world. As CT, the Chicago Tribune, and now The New York Times have reported on allegations of sexual misconduct and complaints about the Willow Creek board’s response, some less familiar with Willow Creek wonder why the ministry deserves all this attention. “Willow Creek was revolutionary in that previously, churches assumed that all that was needed to reach unbelievers with the gospel was simply to say it one more time and not do anything particularly different,” said Marshall Shelley, a longtime editor for Leadership Journal. Rather than just continue to sling religious language at the world, Willow’s leaders realized that “our culture is spiritually blind and is not going to respond to positively to a message that has grown overly familiar or has grown stale,” said Shelley. “Willow Creek said ‘We need to communicate in a way that is going to get people’s attention. Not say it the way we’ve said it thousands of times before but say it in a way that they’ve never heard it before.’” This insight grew the ministry of the church and spawned the Willow Creek Association, a network for like-minded churches thousands of congregations strong. It’s this latter ministry that organizes the annual Global Leadership Summit, which is simulcast around the world at hundreds of locations. Shelley joined associate digital media producer Morgan Lee and editor in chief Mark Galli to discuss what influenced and drove Hybels to do church the way he did, what inspired the church’s leadership and business mentality and focus, and what’s next for Willow in the wake of allegations of misconduct against its founder and former leader.

Join us for our second interview with Tony Morgan. Tony is the Chief Strategic Officer and founder of The Unstuck Group. For 14 years, Tony served on the senior leadership teams at West Ridge Church (Dallas, GA), NewSpring Church (Anderson, SC) and Granger Community Church (Granger, IN). He's written several books and articles that have been featured with the Willow Creek Association, Catalyst and Pastors.com.

The Unstuck Church (7 Lifecycles Of The Church) :: Tony Morgan Our Guest Today: Tony Morgan is the founder and lead strategist of The Unstuck Group. He's a consultant, leadership coach and writer who helps churches get unstuck and have a bigger impact. For 14 years, Tony served on the senior leadership teams at West Ridge Church(Dallas, GA), NewSpring Church (Anderson, SC) and Granger Community Church(Granger, IN). He has authored several books on leadership and ministry strategy. His newest book, The Unstuck Church (released in May 2017), unpacks the life-cycle of a typical church, identifies characteristics of each phase, and provides practical next steps a church can take to move towards sustained health. Tony has also written several articles on staffing, technology, strategic planning and leadership published by organizations like the Willow Creek Association, Outreach Magazine, Catalyst and Pastors.com. Tony and his wife, Emily, live near Atlanta, Georgia with their four children — Kayla, Jacob, Abby and Brooke. You can read a more extensive bio and his blog and work online at https://tonymorganlive.com/ A Few Key Ideas: Churches need action plans The New Testament church is the “body” Tony said, "We should always ________ before we build" What is the stewardship principle that we're required to live out? Tony talks about how strategy connects to heart change Tony introduces us to the 7 Lifecycles of the church Different approaches of the Life cycles in churches that have planted vs churches that need revitalization Tony talks about why many churches are closing their doors today The whirlwind that exists in the church and how to address it Links/Resources Mentioned (some items mentioned directly or indirectly through prior research): The Unstuck Church by Tony Morgan The Four Disciplines of Execution by Sean Covey and Chris McChesney Good To Great by Jim Collins Purpose Driven Church by Rick Warren Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud How I Built This Podcast The Unstuck Church Bell Curve (explained on the podcast) For Coaching, Questions, or Additional Information: You can contact us at info@thewiseideapodcast.com Subscribe via: iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, RSS Feed Coming Soon To TuneIn Enjoy what you're hearing & seeing? Do you mind Rating & Reviewing This Podcast? Your ratings and reviews help us place the podcast in front of new leaders and listeners. Your feedback also lets me know how I can better serve you. If you have the desire to donate financially to The Wise Idea Podcast, you can do so here. A donation of any amount will be helpful in allowing us to creating the movement to INSPIRE WISDOM. About Our Host: Christopher J. Harris, a native of Palatka, Fla., is currently Executive Pastor of Crossover Church of Tampa, Fla. He is also the Director of Administration & Vision Implementation overseeing the day to day operations of the Atlanta Headquarters office for Full Gospel Baptist Church Fellowship International. He's served at ministries in Florida, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Chicago,IL. He's an author and blogger and most recently wrote a book titled, Temporary Assignments. He's an alumnus of Florida State University, University of South Carolina, special studies at Princeton Theological Seminary and doctoral work at Nova Southeastern University. Harris currently resides in Florida with his wife Dr Carmen J Harris and their children. You can check him out here: www.ChristopherJHarris.com You can see his Social media here on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Periscope, and LinkedIn ALL at @CJHarrisOne Here are Christopher's Theological Beliefs: http://christopherjharris.com/what-i-believe/ He is affiliated with the following organizations (among others): www.CrossoverChurch.org , https://www.fullgospelbaptist.org/, http://www.mosaix.info/ , and https://www.biblicalleadership.com/   Thank You's:

Join us for our March Podcast as we interview Tony Morgan. Tony is the Chief Strategic Officer and founder of The Unstuck Group. For 14 years, Tony served on the senior leadership teams at West Ridge Church (Dallas, GA), NewSpring Church (Anderson, SC) and Granger Community Church (Granger, IN). He's written several books and articles that have been featured with the Willow Creek Association, Catalyst and Pastors.com.

If you're a CEO or other senior leader who answers to a board of directors, OR if you chair a board, OR if serve on a board of a Christian organization (pause) and if you want your board to be more effective to further and fulfill the unique work to which God has called your organization, church or business, then these next few minutes are just for you. And even if you're not directly involved with a board, you're in for a treat. We have the pleasure of visiting with two longtime friends and incredible Christian leaders. They're going to share with you some of their very best wisdom, experience, and stories from their new forth-coming book: Lessons From the Nonprofit Boardroom. Dan Busby is the president of the Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability—known of course as ECFA. Forty years of experience serving the Christ-centered church and nonprofit community. Prolific writer of eight books. Named by Nonprofit Times as one of the “50 Most Powerful Nonprofit Leaders” from 2010-2015. And with Dan . . . John Pearson, board governance and management consultant. Former CEO of Christian Camp and Conference Association, Willow Creek Association and Christian Management Association, now Christian Leadership Alliance. John's the author of Mastering the Management Buckets: 20 Critical Competencies for Leading Your Business or Nonprofit. Find full show notes here http://blog.bcwinstitute.org/s3-e11-john-pearson-dan-busby/  

Today's podcast is all about the history of REVEAL—a story about a survey born in 2004 that’s become the gold standard for measuring spiritual growth for churches across the country. More than 2000 churches with 500,000 congregants have taken the REVEAL survey. Beyond size, our database is very diverse, including a broad range of church denominations, locations, sizes, and styles. REVEAL’s Origin Story: 2004-2008 In 2004, Willow Creek Church in South Barrington, IL, wanted to measure spiritual growth. Spiritual growth was defined using the Great Commandment as a guide, measuring the factors that increase a person’s love of God and love of others grow. Cally Parkinson was Communications Director for WCC at the time and headed up the survey effort, eventually authoring two books on findings from REVEAL. • Three key “inventors”: Bill Hybels + Eric Arnson + Greg Hawkins. • The question wasn’t “what drives spiritual growth?” Because we knew the answer—church activities. •The only question was which church activity was most effective at spiritual growth. Was it small groups? Or midweek services? • The surprising answer—neither one. In fact, we found that participation in church activities does not drive long–term spiritual growth. • Instead, we discovered that the most significant catalysts that drive spiritual growth are personal spiritual practices, specifically Bible engagement. The things we do outside of the organized church setting are the most powerful influences on growing our relationship with Jesus—and consequently, our love of God and love of others. The real breakthrough for REVEAL came two years later through the Willow Creek Association. The WCA is best known for its annual Global Leadership Summit, which this year will host 400,000 people in 128 countries around the world. Bill decided to share the survey insights at a gathering of WCA Summit pastors. Many of the pastors begged WCA president Jim Mellado to take the survey in their churches. We started with seven churches…then 25…then in 2007, 500 churches took the survey. REVEAL the book and brand were launched, leading to changes at Willow Creek and many other churches. For the first time, we had data that churches could use to see how their people were doing in their spiritual growth. REVEAL Best Practice Principles: 2008-2012 In 2008, studying the results from all of the churches that had taken the survey led to the discovery of the Best Practice Principles. • The first (and only) REVEAL conference was held to discuss the findings and allow others to hear from the churches we identified as being exceptional in their implementation of the Principles. •Nancy Scammacca Lewis joined the REVEAL team soon after as lead statistician. •We built a database of church survey results, mined it for new insights, and published MOVE: What 1,000 Churches Reveal about Spiritual Growth. REVEAL Archetypes: 2013-Present In 2013, a philanthropist with a technology company bought the REVEAL brand and intellectual property. Thanks to this investment, we rebooted the survey to be more user-friendly and published a second book Rise: Bold Strategies to Transform Your Church. In Rise, we describe our findings about eight types of churches—we call them “archetypes.” The eight archetypes emerged out of the richness of data we have on the two key findings we described earlier: • Where congregants are the catalysts of spiritual growth • How churches are doing on the Best Practice Principles. Our goal with the archetypes isn’t to put churches in boxes—it’s to give them practical next steps to make their church more vibrant. Looking across everything we’ve done and everything we know now about churches and spiritual growth, a pastor’s key takeaway from REVEAL should be that there’s hope—in fact, a lot of hope—because any church can RISE. We’ve launched this podcast to share fresh insights from our rich data on how churches can help their people grow. We want to take the guesswork out of church-work for you! Next time on the REVEAL Church Leadership Podcast: Key concepts you need to know to understand the REVEAL findings.

In this episode, Al has the great pleasure of talking with longtime friend, colleague and board and leadership consultant John Pearson. Join us for this fun and far-reaching conversation that covers everything from great leadership books, to board governance best practices, and even how to infuse fun (or as John likes to call it, "hoopla") into your workplace culture. John's fingerprints are all over the founding of the Best Christian Workplaces Institute. Yet, he's known for so much more than that. For 25 combined years, he led Christian Camping International/USA (now Christian Camp and Conference Association), the Willow Creek Association, and Christian Management Association (now Christian Leadership Alliance). Today, he's a management and board governance consultant whose clients read like a who's who of respected ministry organizations. Find the full show notes at http://blog.bcwinstitute.org/s2-e26-john-pearson. 

Why does having a healthy staff culture matter? Is it really worth the effort? Does it ultimately impact your organization's performance? Today's guest has a fascinating response to this question. Today we have the pleasure of visiting with Gary Schwammlein, who is President and CEO of the Willow Creek Association – known for helping Christians grow their leadership to maximize Kingdom impact through the popular annual Global Leadership Summit. Last fall, Gary spoke at the Church Culture Conference in front of 200 ministry and human resources leaders. In his talk, “Why Culture Matters,” he outlined the direct connection between staff health and ministry outcomes. He's going to tell us about that direct connection in today's episode. Find the full show notes at http://blog.bcwinstitute.org/s2-e17-gary-schwammlein-willow-creek-association. 

Tony is the Chief Strategic Officer and founder of The Unstuck Group. He's a consultant, leadership coach and writer who helps churches get unstuck and have a bigger impact. For 14 years, Tony served on the senior leadership teams at West Ridge Church (Dallas, GA), NewSpring Church (Anderson, SC) and Granger Community Church (Granger, IN). With Tim Stevens, Tony has co-authored Simply Strategic Stuff, Simply Strategic Volunteers and Simply Strategic Growth – each of which offers valuable, practical solutions for different aspects of church ministry. His book, Killing Cockroaches (B&H Publishing) challenges leaders to focus on the priorities in life and ministry. His most recent books on leadership and ministry strategy are available on Kindle. Tony has also written several articles on staffing, technology, strategic planning and leadership published by organizations like the Willow Creek Association, Outreach Magazine, Catalyst and Pastors.com. Tony and his wife, Emily, live near Atlanta, Georgia with their four children — Kayla, Jacob, Abby and Brooke.

Bill Hybels is senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, a church of more than 25,000 that celebrated its 40th year in 2015. Bill Hybels is the founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Ill., with a weekend attendance of twenty thousand. He is also chairman of the board for the Willow Creek Association, a ... Read More

Welcome to Episode 32 of the Joshua Gagnon Leadership Podcast! In today's episode, Pastor Josh sits down with David Ashcraft, the senior pastor of LCBC (Lives Changed By Christ), a multi-site church in Pennsylvania with 8 locations and over 15,000 people in attendance each weekend. David is a graduate of Texas Tech University with a degree in Business Administration, holds a Master's Degree in Theology from Dallas Theological Seminary, as well as a Doctoral degree in Ministry from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, in Chicago, Illinois. Because of its work around the world, in 2008 David and LCBC received “The Courageous Leadership” award from the Willow Creek Association and World Vision. David and his wife Ruth live in Lititz, Pennsylvania and have two grown children, Justin, a graduate of Lancaster Bible College living in Pittsburgh with his wife Laura, and Ashleigh, who currently attends Lancaster Bible College. Learn more about David: LCBC Church - http://www.lcbcchurch.com/ LCBC on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lcbcchurch LCBC on Twitter - https://twitter.com/lcbcchurch Email LCBC - mailto:info@lcbcchurch.com 3 Takeaways for Leaders: 1. Be intentional and timely with your new hires. Don't necessarily hire people because you need to fill a need, hire people who can help the church to grow and move forward. Additionally, take the appropriate amount of time to ensure the hire is a good fit instead of rushing through the hiring process. 2. The multi-site approach to ministry is great, but it's not for everyone. Look at your model and decide whether or not it's worth replicating across multiple locations. 3. Instead of focusing on growth, focus on doing the basics well. If you have systems in place that lets your guests know that they are cared for and valued, growth will happen naturally. Quotes From This Episode: “Get to the point where you're not hiring generalists, you're hiring experts.” - David Ashcraft “Hiring experts brings growth, but hiring generalists relieves pain.” - David Ashcraft “It's about doing the basics well, then the growth will come.” - David Ashcraft “Find the ‘why' behind the ‘what'.” - Josh Gagnon “Make sure early on you find some very strong structures, systems, and vision that's worth of believing in 25 years later.” - Josh Gagnon “Be true to who you are.” - David Ashcraft

In this week’s episode, David and Kevin talk about the recent experience David had. He was fortunate enough to be able to participate in a course offered by the Willow Creek Association through the L.I.F.T. Project. Listen in to hear how these may be just the thing you need to grow as a leader! TWITTER: @wmcatalyst […]

Bill Hybels is the founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois, and the chairman of the board for Willow Creek Association. He convened The Global Leadership Summit in 1995, following a God-given prompting to help raise and develop the spiritual gift of leadership for the local church. Both visionary and passionate about seeing every local church reach its full God-given potential, he speaks around the world on strategic issues related to leadership, evangelism, and church growth. An exceptional communicator, he is a best-selling author of more than 20 books, including Axiom, Holy Discontent, Just Walk Across the Room, The Volunteer Revolution, Courageous Leadership and the newly released, The Power of a Whisper: Hearing God and Having the Guts to Respond. Bill received a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies and an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Trinity College in Deerfield, IL.

Bill Hybels is the founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, Illinois, and the chairman of the board for Willow Creek Association. He convened The Global Leadership Summit in 1995, following a God-given prompting to help raise and develop the spiritual gift of leadership for the local church. Both visionary and passionate about seeing every local church reach its full God-given potential, he speaks around the world on strategic issues related to leadership, evangelism, and church growth. An exceptional communicator, he is a best-selling author of more than 20 books, including Axiom, Holy Discontent, Just Walk Across the Room, The Volunteer Revolution, Courageous Leadership and the newly released, The Power of a Whisper: Hearing God and Having the Guts to Respond. Bill received a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies and an honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Trinity College in Deerfield, IL.

Preached by Dr. Gary Johnson on August 29, 2010. Flying Lesson (C) 1999 Willow Creek Community Church Written by Donna Lagerquist. Duplicated by permission from the Willow Creek Association.

As a special bonus for our listeners, we have created a series to commemorate Inverse Podcast co-host Dr Drew Hart's brand new book *Who Will Be a Witness: Igniting Activism For God's Justice, Love and Deliverance.* In these additional episodes we will interview friends and co-workers to discuss chapter by chapter Drew's new book. These conversations were recorded in community with friends from around the world as past of Inverse's ongoing work to create formation experiences that deepen our witness to God's justice, love and deliverance. *Who Will Be a Witness* offers a vision for communities of faith to organize for deliverance and justice in their neighborhoods, states, and nation as an essential part of living out the call of Jesus. Drew provides incisive insights into Scripture and history, along with illuminating personal stories, to help us identify how the witness of the church has become mangled by Christendom, white supremacy, and religious nationalism. He provides a wide range of options for congregations seeking to give witness to Jesus' ethic of love for and solidarity with the vulnerable. At a time when many feel disillusioned and distressed, Drew calls the church to action, offering a way forward that is deeply rooted in the life and witness of Jesus. Drew's testimony is powerful, personal, and profound, serving as a compass that points the church to the future and offers us a path toward meaningful social change and a more faithful witness to the way of Jesus. (Buy Drew's new book [here](http://https://www.amazon.com/Who-Will-Be-Witness-Deliverance/dp/1513806580/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=who+will+be+a+witness&qid=1599640684&s=books&sr=1-1).) This fifth conversation discusses Chapter Six of ***Who Will Be a Witness*** with pastor, activist, worship leader and author Sandra Maria Van Opstal. Sandra Maria Van Opstal, a second-generation Latina, pastors at Grace and Peace Community on the west-side of Chicago. She is a preacher, liturgist and activist who re-imagining the intersection of worship and justice. In her fifteen years with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship, Sandra mobilized thousands of college students for God's mission of reconciliation and justice in the world. Sandra served as Director of Worship for the Urbana Missions Conference, Chicago Urban Program Director, Latino National Leadership Team (LaFe), and Northwestern University Team leader (Multiethnic fellowship). Sandra's influence has also reached many others through her leadership and preaching on topics such of worship and formation, justice, racial identity and reconciliation, and global mission. She has been featured at Wheaton College, North Park University, The Justice Conference, Evangelical Covenant conferences, Willow Creek Association conferences, and various churches. Sandra serves as a board member for Evangelicals for Justice and the Christian Community Development Association. Sandra was also the Worship Director for the IFES World Assemblyin Mexico 2015, Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering in Jarkarta 2016 and Global Gathering in South Africa 2018. In addition to her ministry experience, Sandra holds a Masters of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Illinois and has been published in multiple journals. She has authored *God's Graffiti Devotional, Still Evangelical, The Mission of Worship *and *The Next Worship.* Follow Sandra on [Twitter](http://https://twitter.com/sandravanopstal) and [Instagram](http://https://www.instagram.com/sandravanopstal/) @sandravanopstal. Follow Drew Hart on [Instagram](http://http://instagram.com/druhart) and [Twitter](http://https://twitter.com/druhart) @druhart. Follow Jarrod McKenna on [Instagram](http://https://www.instagram.com/jarrodmckenna) and [Twitter](http://jarrodmckenna) @jarrodmckenna