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In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza and Chad Higgins of Lifeway Christian Resources explore the essential role parents play in mentoring and discipling their children. Chad shares his background in parent ministry and emphasizes the need to empower parents as the primary spiritual leaders in their homes. They discuss how mentors can build trust with parents, engage those who may be distant from faith, and remain faithful in their mentoring journey. The episode offers practical ways mentors can support families and create meaningful, transformative relationships for both parents and kids.Check out Chad's book, Define the Relationship: Growing a Parent Ministry that Brings Families and Churches Together, here. To learn more about Lifeway Christian Resources, visit https://www.lifeway.com/.--Takeaways:Parents are crucial in the discipleship of their children.Building trust with parents starts with knowing their names.Mentorship extends beyond the child to the family.Faithfulness in mentorship is essential for long-term impact.Engaging parents can lead to exponential growth in mentorship.The gospel is best communicated through relationships.Understanding parents' needs is key to effective ministry.Every interaction with a family can plant seeds for faith.Transformation in a child's life can influence their parents.Mentors should model healthy adult interactions for kids.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and Family Dynamics02:42 The Journey into Parent Ministry14:40 Understanding Parental Roles in Discipleship20:24 Building Trust with Parents28:01 Engaging Parents Who Are Uninterested in Faith36:24 The Importance of Faithfulness in Mentorship--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Feeling called to youth ministry but can't seem to get hired at a church? You're not alone! This episode uncovers the uncomfortable yet crucial reasons why some youth ministry-minded individuals struggle to get hired as a youth pastor despite their passion. Whether you're actively seeking a student pastor position or you are involved in hiring for your church, this conversation offers valuable perspective on what makes someone student ministry-ready. =========
If you've been struggling to stay in youth ministry and ready to hang it up, don't do it is just yet. This interview could rekindle your passion for youth and challenge you to persist in your calling. Links below to all the stuff. Staying Power (10 Essentials for Longevity in Youth Ministry) https://amzn.to/445QSjt Backpocket Games PDF https://longerhaul.myflodesk.com/whfpipcqqd The Longer Haul Podcast https://thelongerhaul.com/ New Youth Pastor Bundle https://youthminresources.gumroad.com... Catalyst Coaching https://youthminresources.gumroad.com... Youth Ministry Playbook https://youthminresources.gumroad.com... Newsletter https://sunny-knitter-655.kit.com/6af...
Consistency is hard—unless you steal my system. In this episode, I break down my exact weekly summer content rhythm for youth ministry using the ☀️ Summer Seasonal Social Media Pack: 1 spiritual reel, 1 fun reel, 1 carousel, and some bonus hybrid magic. You'll get the full template, schedule, and content—so you can stay consistent, connected, and (mostly) sane all summer long. ☀️ SUMMER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry/shop/summer-seasonal-social-media-1540452?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=productsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link *
Do you or your students ever feel like the Gospel is just too good to be true? In this powerful episode, Doug Edwards shares a redemptive story of faith, transformation, and hope, inspired by the real-life testimony of Phil Robertson (Duck Dynasty). From stories of addiction, family dysfunction, and doubt, to the simple truth of salvation through Jesus. This episode is for anyone who feels like they're “not good enough” for grace. This message is a must-listen for anyone serving in ministry or leading others (especially students) through seasons of doubt and brokenness. Doug dives into Romans 10, spiritual rebirth, imposter syndrome, and what it means to lead others to faith - especially when you feel unqualified.
Join Tammy Pollock, Director of Youth Ministries, as we delve into her sermon "Be Bold & Courageous."
Kyle invites 2 women on staff at his church to discuss ministry to teenage girls. Bethany Hearne, Student Ministry Coordinator, and Beth Harrell, Women's Ministry Director at Old North Church provide great insights on what it looks like to minister to teen girls. How are the experiences of teenage girls today different from the past, and how does that impact how we reach them with the Gospel? When is it appropriate to separate girls from boys in youth group? Together, "The Beths" also answer some questions submitted by listeners through our Facebook Forum, including how to effectively equip female volunteer leaders.
What if our parish wasn't just a place we come to—but a place we're sent from? That's the vision: parishes as missionary outposts, where we're formed, equipped, and fired up to bring Jesus to the world around us. Imagine a community where people are on fire with God's love, confident in their faith, and ready to share it. A place where the fruit isn't just attendance numbers, but transformed lives—families healed, hearts stirred, and the Gospel reaching places it's never gone. That's the kind of fruit we're after. Let's talk about how to get there. [00:23] Coaches Corner: Begin with the End in Mind [00:41] Parenting Wisdom: Raising Adults, Not Children [02:52] Building a Vision for Your Parish [02:58] Pope Francis' Vision for Parishes [08:26] Applying the Vision to Youth Ministry [09:05] Reflecting on Your Ministry Goals [09:45] Closing Thoughts and Prayer For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This Pizza & Side Hugs conversation delves into the intricacies of assigning small groups in youth ministry, exploring the challenges faced, strategies for effective group assignments, and the importance of gender dynamics. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on how to create a supportive environment for youth, emphasizing the need for flexibility, intentionality, and prayer in the process.00:00 Introduction to Small Groups in Youth Ministry02:55 Challenges in Assigning Small Groups05:54 Strategies for Effective Group Assignments08:55 Gender Dynamics in Small Groups11:51 Evaluating Group Sizes and Dynamics15:01 Flexibility and Adaptation in Group Assignments17:49 The Importance of Prayer and Intentionalitypizzasidehugs@gmail.com
In this powerful message from Pastor Mark Rempel at 2911 Church, we dive into the early life of Moses to uncover how God brings purpose out of even the most chaotic beginnings. From being placed in a basket on the Nile to being raised in Pharaoh's palace, Moses' story is a reminder that no season is wasted when God is involved. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of what's next, this sermon will encourage you to trust God's heart—even when you can't see His plan.#FindingPurpose #TrustGodInChaos #2911Church00:00 – Intro: Prince of Egypt & Youth Ministry 02:00 – Why Moses Still Matters Today 04:30 – Which Moses Are You? (Funny Visuals) 06:00 – Why Bible Characters Weren't Superheroes 07:30 – What Is a Character Study? 09:00 – Moses Was Born Into Chaos 11:30 – The Truth About Biblical Slavery 14:00 – Spiritual Slavery in Our Lives 17:00 – God's Power to Free You 20:00 – Jochebed's Risk: Trusting God with the Basket 22:30 – Pastor Mark's Personal Story of Being Saved from Abortion 25:00 – The Miracle in You 26:00 – God Is Present in the Chaos 28:30 – Trusting God's Heart When the Plan Is Unclear 31:00 – Stories of Faith: Bartimaeus, Peter, Paul & More 34:30 – Closing Encouragement: God Hasn't Forsaken You----------Follow 2911 Church on Social Media:FACEBOOK: https://facebook.com/2911churchINSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/2911churchWEBSITE: https://www.2911church.com/GIVING: https://2911church.churchcenter.com/giving----------Subscribe to 2911 Church's Podcast:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6SiLmBl5TcTGD63CTNwU4f?si=98186b325cf94ee6Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/29-11-church/id1456498714
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Every youth pastor knows the rollercoaster of youth ministry – the highs of seeing students grow, the lows of drama and discouragement. What many don't realize is that who you choose to ride that student ministry rollercoaster with matters just as much as the ministry itself.Whether you're struggling with difficult team dynamics, seeking to build a powerful team from the ground up or looking to strengthen an already solid group, these insights will help you create a youth ministry environment where everyone – including you – can thrive for the long haul. Your youth ministry's longevity depends not just on what you do, but who you do it with.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#011) How to Recruit the RIGHT Volunteers For Youth Ministry(#024) Raising Up Leaders in Student Ministry - How to Duplicate Yourself!!!(#244) How to Retain Your Youth Ministry Volunteers for Years!(#245) How to Keep Students Coming Back to Your Youth Ministry EVERY WEEK!=======
What happens when you pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina's backyard? This week, Father Dave shares powerful moments from his recent pilgrimage to Poland—visiting sacred sites tied to St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Faustina, and St. John Paul II. From celebrating Mass at Kolbe's friary to walking through Auschwitz and Birkenau, it's a glimpse of God's mercy amid some of history's darkest places. While Father Dave walked in the footsteps of saints, Deacon Bob found hopeful witness in the desert. He returns from the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention in Arizona, where he gave a talk on “Radiant Hope” and reconnected with longtime friends in ministry. Together, the hosts reflect on the quiet, often unseen ways God raises up saints in every generation—even in the most unexpected places. And yes, this episode still includes classic They That Hope moments: breakfast with Father Dave's brother Tom, a temporarily misplaced child on the New York subway, and a burning question: Why does the French Open have two names? Highlighted Sections (00:00) Breakfast with Tom, Arizona Adventures, and Youth Ministry in the Desert Deacon Bob recounts his recent trip to Arizona for the Life Teen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention where he reconnected with ministry leaders and gave a keynote on “Radiant Hope.” He also shares a surprise breakfast meet-up with Father Dave's brother, Tom (a loyal listener), some humorous travel woes, and the joy of being surrounded by those serving the Church's youth. (04:08) Sports Recap: NBA, NHL, Tennis, and... Golf? From unexpected NBA playoff upsets to a grueling five-set French Open final, Father Dave and Deacon Bob weigh in on recent sports headlines. They touch on the drama of playoff hockey, marvel at JJ Spaun's 62-foot putt, and clear up (sort of) why the French Open is also called Roland-Garros. (09:01) Audiobook Adventures Deacon Bob announces that his book Sharing the Gospel with Our Lives is getting the audiobook treatment—and he's narrating it himself. He shares the process (including a mysterious home studio in Columbus), while Father Dave recalls the heartbreak of being cut off with just 15 minutes left in a Navy SEAL memoir due to subscription limits. (16:29) Pilgrimage to Poland: Kolbe, Faustina & Divine Mercy in Dark Places Father Dave reflects on the deeply moving pilgrimage he led across Poland. Highlights include Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe's friary visiting the birthplace of St. Faustina, and praying the Divine Mercy Chaplet in St. Faustina's backyard with her niece. He shares how the lives of these saints—and the sobering visit to Auschwitz and Birkenau—revealed the light of God even in history's darkest moments. (23:02) Saints Amidst Suffering As conflict rages in places like Gaza and Ukraine, the hosts reflect on how God raises up saints in every era. From the Missionaries of Charity caring for the vulnerable in war zones, to everyday youth ministers and celibate religious, they honor those whose quiet, faithful witness brings hope to the world. (28:22) Radiant Hope in Service Expanding on his convention talk, Deacon Bob shares how true Christian hope is made visible through acts of loving service. Drawing from Scripture and the Visitation of Mary, he explains how hope, though unseen, shines clearly in those who serve joyfully and sacrificially. Resources Mentioned · Sharing the Gospel with Our Lives: A Relational Approach to Catholic Youth Ministry by Deacon Bob Rice · LifeTeen Catholic Youth Ministry Convention · In Person with Bishop Cozzens on Faith&Reason · Hoopla streaming app · Franciscan Catechetical Institute · Divine Mercy Shrine in Kraków, Poland · Niepokalanów, St. Maximilian Kolbe's Friary · Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum · How to Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet
Feeling burned out in ministry or your parenting life? This short, but powerful episode dives into Isaiah 40:29–31, reminding us that God gives power to the weak and strength to the exhausted. Host Doug Edwards reflects on the challenges of leadership, answered prayers, and the unseen impact of staying faithful. Plus, hear a behind-the-scenes story about a life-changing event sparked by this very podcast. Whether you're a youth pastor, ministry volunteer, or parent, this episode offers encouragement, perspective, and a spiritual recharge.
What does it look like when gospel renewal is forged through suffering and planted in the heart of a global city? In this conversation, Esteban Valenzuela, pastor of Raíces Madrid Evangelical Christian Church, shares his remarkable story of personal transformation, perseverance through false accusation, and the sovereign call of God that led him and his family to Madrid, Spain.Mike Neglia and Esteban talk about the power of gospel renewal — not just as a theological concept, but as a lived reality. Esteban reminds us that the gospel is the cornerstone of Scripture and the Christian life, and warns against shallow repetition of gospel language without depth or clarity. They also discuss the challenges of church planting, how God works through weak sermons and weak preachers, and why having a clear message truly matters.Join Mike Neglia and Brian Kelly at the upcoming CGN Ministry Conference June 22-25, 2025 This conference is designed for church leaders and their ministry teams to connect, collaborate, and grow together. Dive deep into John 13–17, The Upper Room Discourse, with our main session speakers, and attend workshops led by experienced leaders in key areas such as Lead and Senior Pastors, Executive and Associate Pastors, Women in Ministry, Children's Ministry, Youth Ministry, Worship, Small Groups and Care Leaders, Tech Teams, Administration, and Lay Leaders. Whether you're a pastor, ministry worker, or volunteer, this event is for your whole team. Join us for an inspiring time of learning, fellowship, and renewed vision for the work God has called us to!Register for our next in person training event August 22-23, 2025 St Petersburg, Florida Calvary Chapel St. Petersburg https://expositorscollective.org/gatherings/The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollectiveDonate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective
Director of Youth Ministry, Matt Brouwer preaches from John 5:1-18
In this episode, Tudor speaks with Dave Patty, a second-generation missionary and founder of Josiah Venture, about his journey to Central and Eastern Europe. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of missionary work in a region with a complex history, the importance of rebuilding spiritual foundations among youth, and the innovative ways they are reaching young people today, including through social media. The conversation also touches on the impact of the Ukraine war and how Josiah Venture has pivoted to provide aid and support to those affected. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Podcast Network. For more visit TudorDixonPodcast.com Learn more about Dave Patty & Josiah Venture HERE Watch The Tudor Dixon Podcast on RUMBLESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join Jake and Saolomon for a conversation with Kyle Hoffsmith. Kyle serves as the Family Pastor at Old North Church in Ohio and hosts the Word in Youth Ministry Podcast.In this episode we discuss:- What does preaching look like in youth ministry? Does it work?- Why has the American Church lowered the bar of preaching in youth ministry?- How do you cultivate a biblically and theologically robust culture in youth ministry?
In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza talks with Brittany Sawrey-Coulson and Benjamin Crawshaw from True Face about the power of authenticity in mentorship and discipleship. They challenge performance-based models of discipleship, emphasizing identity in Christ and the value of genuine, trust-filled relationships. The conversation covers how mentors can create safe spaces for youth through authentic connection, meaningful dialogue, and shared experiences. They also discuss the role of food, curiosity, and presence in building trust, as well as the impact of social media and technology on mentorship. The episode wraps up with practical resources to help mentors guide deeper, more impactful conversations with their mentees. Check out Brittany and Benjamin's book, The Path: What if the Way of Jesus is Different Than You Thought? on Amazon here. You can also download a sneak peek of the book or learn more at https://www.trueface.org/thepath. --Takeaways: TrueFace helps Christians find peace through identity-based discipleship.Authenticity and humility are key to connecting with today's youth.Mentoring starts with trust, not performance.The next generation craves real relationships and self-understanding.Safe, grace-filled environments foster growth and transformation.Shared meals and genuine curiosity deepen connection.Face-to-face, experiential learning is powerful in a digital age.Mentors must be secure in their identity to lead well.The Path Experience Guide provides practical tools for mentors.Social media brings both challenges and chances for deeper engagement.--Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mentorship and True Face01:53 The Journey of True Face and Its Impact06:12 Authenticity in Mentorship and Discipleship08:55 Shifting from Performance to Identity15:07 Building Relationships in Mentorship21:07 The Role of Humility in Mentorship23:01 Creating Safe Environments for Change36:00 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Mentoring44:03 Resources for Effective Mentoring Conversations--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com
Send us a textAre you ready to grow the size and health of your youth ministry? Check outGrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** What gets a student through your youth group doors? And what keeps them coming back to youth ministry every week? These questions lie at the heart of building an effective, thriving student ministry.You might be successful at creating a youth ministry that students come and check out, but a revolving door of visitors isn't the goal. You want them to stay! So how do we create an environment that students can find something worth staying for, something they can't get anywhere else? In this episode, we will be discussing some of the reasons students initially show up to youth group, but more importantly, we talk about changes you can make in your youth ministry to keep them coming back.Whether you're struggling to get students through the youth group doors or wondering how to deepen their commitment, these insights will help you build student ministry that matters for the long haul.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#024) Raising Up Leaders in Student Ministry - How to Duplicate Yourself!!!(#244) How to Retain Your Youth Ministry Volunteers for Years!(#219) LISTEN TO THIS If You Want Consistent Youth Ministry Attendance!(#142 Is Your Youth Group Struggling to Connect? 5 Tips that WORK!=======
I didn't make anything new this week. I literally just hit post. Let me show you exactly what I shared using my Summer Content Pack—and how it performed. Plus two bonus pieces of content that were the true all-stars at the end of this video! ☀️ SUMMER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry/shop/summer-seasonal-social-media-1540452?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=productsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link *
Controversial Ship In a bold move, the Secretary of Defense has instructed the U.S. Navy to rename a vessel that was previously dedicated with a pro-LGBT title. We unpack the political and cultural implications behind this change and the message it sends to the armed forces. 2. Missouri Approves Chaplains in Public Schools Victory for faith in education! Missouri now allows chaplains to serve in all public schools. We examine how this decision empowers students, supports religious freedom, and reinforces values in classrooms across the state. 3. Interview: Trey the Foley Artist & Christian the Youth Podcaster Dr. Chaps interviews two creative voices making waves in Christian media. Trey brings sound to life as a Foley artist, and Christian shares the heart of Gen Z through his youth podcast. Be inspired by how they're using their talents for God's glory. Get free alerts at http://PrayInJesusName.org © 2025, Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, PhD. Airs on NRB TV, Direct TV Ch.378, Roku, AppleTV, Amazon FireTV, AndroidTV, GoogleTV, Smart TV, iTunes and www.PrayInJesusName.org
Jordan and Dan continue to discuss healthy practices of youth ministry - congregations have engaged parents.Practice #1 - Congregations have warmth, challenge, and grace.Practice #2 - Congregations have supportive adults.Practice #3 - Congregations have engaged parents.
From Student Ministry to Tech Leader & Soccer Devotional Author | Bradley Blake's Inspiring Journey ⚽
Youth and Families Pastor, Scott Herron, joins the podcast with Kyle to discuss growing as a teacher in our youth ministries. The words from Scott offer encouragement to youth leaders young and old alike. He emphasizes how an early important lesson he learned was that he didn't always have to be "the guy." His ministry thrives most when he remembers to get out of the way. He shares about how his teaching has changed over the years and ways he's improved as a teacher of God's Word as he's learned to be patient with himself. Scott also shares tips regarding whether or not to use curriculum. This episode also includes a discussion about not getting hurt or upset when students don't attend youth group when they are engaged in the body of the church on Sunday mornings and serve in other capacities.
With anxiety off the charts as a growing epidemic among children and teens, we've spent all this week looking at strategies you can employ to prevent anxiety in the kids you know and love. Today I want to share a strategy that can push back against social anxiety, which is one of the most prominent forms of anxiety we hear about in the youth population. While its essential that we all involve ourselves in Christian fellowship with other members of the body of Christ, it's especially helpful for our kids to be assimilated into two specific groups. First, involvement in a caring Christian youth group community provides shelter from the pressures of the larger real-life peer group and the virtual peer group found on social media. And second, our kids need to be integrated into the larger body of Christ where they can interact with a variety of caring adults. Never underestimate the power of Christian community to foster healthy spiritual growth and development. Your kids were made for it.
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Getting the right youth ministry volunteers is step one...but how do you retain them? Volunteer retention might be the most overlooked youth pastor leadership skill in student ministry today. While we pour energy into recruiting and training new team members, keeping them engaged for the long haul requires an entirely different approach. In this episode, we share battle-tested strategies for volunteer longevity.This episode will challenge youth ministry leaders to view volunteer retention not as a checkbox to complete but as an ongoing commitment requiring intentionality and care. Learn how to transform your leadership approach from merely managing volunteers to cultivating a thriving community where leaders stay engaged not just because they believe in the mission, but because they've found a place they belong.People join for the team, not the task!=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#011) How to Recruit the Right Volunteers for Youth Ministry(#052) Small Group Leader Training for Youth Ministry(#031) Training Youth Ministry Volunteers Part 1 of 2: Onboarding & Acclimation to Your Team=======
Send us a textKate Downing joins us to discuss her new Bible study "Fighting With Fear" and shares profound insights about the theological significance of fear in ministry leadership and decision-making.• Fear itself isn't bad—we were designed to fear, but the object of our fear matters• Ministry decisions often trigger fears about consequences and others' opinions• The "brain dump" technique helps sort problems into what you can and cannot control• Decision fatigue plagues ministry leaders who try to reinvent the wheel annually• Document everything to avoid recreating the same work year after year• Christian leadership requires balancing fear-fueled paralysis with reckless fearlessness• Scripture mentions the fear of God over 200 times as our proper orientation• Leaders should filter decisions through the question: "Does this honor and obey God?"• Student anxiety often reveals deeper theological misconceptions about God's character• Ministry in 2025 should focus on equipping students as ministers, not just recipientsCheck out "Fighting With Fear: Becoming Fearfully Unafraid" by Kate Downing, available now wherever books are sold. The six-session Bible study for teens includes video access and additional resources.Support the showJoin the community!
“We don't have to look far to realize there's a void of godly voices in modern youth culture. When we look around and see students struggling with self-harm, gender identity, as well as depression and anxiety, to name a few, we can see the void of godly voices,” writes Ashton Peters. “There's a void of Christ-honoring love, biblical discipleship, and authentic mentorship. There's a void of spiritual mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, who deeply love a generation and want them to be all that God calls them to be.” In this episode of the Influence Podcast, I talk to Ashton Peters about why youth ministries need to fill that void with good adult mentors, and how they can best do so. I'm George P. Wood, executive editor of Influence magazine and your host. Ashton Peters is national Fine Arts coordinator for the Assemblies of God and author of The Third Voice, forthcoming from Gospel Publishing House. ————— This episode of the Influence podcast is brought to you by My Healthy Church, distributors of the Ignite Parenting Conversation Cards. Strengthen your family's relationships with God and each other with these easy-to-use Conversation Cards. Each card is uniquely designed with a question, faith builder statement, and a Bible verse to spark meaningful conversations that cultivate an open and nurturing environment in your home. For more information about the Ignite Parenting Conversation Cards visit MyHealthyChurch.com.
The “done-for-you” social media strategy is dead in 2025—and it might be quietly hurting your ministry. HubSpot's latest report says real impact comes from micro-connections over time, not cookie-cutter content. If you want to win on social this summer without burning out, show up with authenticity, stay consistent, and use tools that amplify your voice—not replace it. ☀️ SUMMER SOCIAL MEDIA PACK https://www.patreon.com/hybridministry/shop/summer-seasonal-social-media-1540452?utmmedium=clipboardcopy&utmsource=copyLink&utmcampaign=productsharecreator&utmcontent=join_link *
Together, they dive deep into the practical and strategic aspects of volunteer ministry exploring proven principles for recruitment, effective training methods, and sustainable retention strategies. With a wealth of hands-on experience, Brian shares valuable insights that every church leader can apply, whether you're leading a few volunteers or managing a large team.If you serve in a local church and want to better equip and empower your volunteers to thrive in ministry, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zach Garza talks with Susie Gallo of Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance about the life-changing impact of mentorship. They explore the value of compassion, curiosity, and authentic connections with mentees. Susie offers practical advice on supporting mentors, creative approaches to recruitment, and the importance of patience in building meaningful relationships. The episode emphasizes how small, everyday experiences can shape young lives and calls for greater community involvement in mentoring efforts.https://sonomamentoring.org/--Takeaways:Mentoring is about building authentic relationships.Compassion should come before comprehension in mentoring.Curiosity helps mentors understand their mentees better.Simple experiences can create lasting memories for kids.Setting mentors up for success is crucial for effective mentoring.Community engagement is essential for recruiting mentors.Patience is key in the mentoring journey.Kids often face challenges that mentors may not see.Mentors should be aware of their mentee's family dynamics.Creating a supportive environment is vital for mentoring success.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mentoring and Connection07:12 The Importance of Compassion in Mentoring15:42 Building Authentic Relationships in Mentoring23:40 Setting Up Mentors for Success30:11 Innovative Approaches to Mentor Recruitment37:33 The Journey of Mentoring: Patience and Growth--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review." On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show." Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com
This week Chris and Jeremy talk about leading youth ministry as a parent.
Rooted Resources:Purchase the Rooted Daniel CurriculumHow the Book of Daniel Helps Us Lead Our Children to Live Counterculturally by Jason EngleConsider Staying Close to Home for Your Youth Groups Mission Trip by Isaiah MarshallFollow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates Register for Rooted 2025 Conference in Chicago Follow @therootedministry on Instagram for more updates andSubscribe to Youth Ministry Unscripted wherever you listen to podcasts
Continuing on in the Seven Practices of Healthy Youth Ministry, Dan and Jordan discuss Practice #2 - congregations have supportive adults.Practice #1 - Congregations have warmth, challenge, and grace.Practice #2 - Congregations have supportive adults.
SHOW NOTES:Ask the Three Bald Guys a question! They want to hear from you!Learn more about our Catholic SchoolsLearn more about our Youth Ministry & Religious Education Offices
Tim McAlpine joins the podcast to recommend and discuss one of his favorite preaching books, On Preaching by H.B. Charles, Jr. He and Kyle discuss some of Tim's favorite chapters and talk about the importance of staying true to the text of Scripture in our preaching. Tim also includes some advice to free us from the weight and temptation of trying to be funny or entertain when we're teaching student's God's word. There's also some great conversation about proper use of illustrations, and how illustrations from Scripture itself are the best ones! Tons of great advice for youth workers trying to be faithful to Scripture and teach the Bible well.
Fire Tested James 1 Era Essential Church May 25, 2025 SUMMARY The message begins with introductions by Chris Traeger and Ben, followed by Leslie Knope offering a tour of the Parks and Recreation Department. Chris Traeger is highlighted for his optimistic outlook, even in hypothetical scenarios like a fictional virus. The narrative shifts to a church service where the pastor discusses the importance of optimism, particularly in youth ministry, and introduces the theme of the James 1 era, which emphasizes finding joy in trials. The pastor elaborates on the concept of trials as preparation rather than punishment, drawing from personal experiences and the teachings of James 1. The message underscores the significance of perseverance in developing faith and maturity. An illustration using Play-Doh is employed to demonstrate the idea of being moldable and the impact of trials on personal growth. The analogy of pottery needing fire to become strong is used to convey how God reshapes and strengthens individuals through trials. The message concludes with a reminder that we are designed to be strong and carry valuable things, followed by a closing prayer seeking strength and guidance from God. DISCUSSION QUESTIONS 1. **Optimism and Positivity:** - How does Chris Traeger's optimistic outlook influence those around him? Can excessive optimism ever be counterproductive? 2. **Trials and Preparation:** - The Project discusses trials as preparation rather than punishment. How can this perspective change the way we approach challenges in our lives? 3. **Faith and Perseverance:** - How does the concept of perseverance in faith, as discussed in James 1, apply to modern-day challenges? Can you share a personal experience where perseverance led to growth? 4. **Youth Ministry and Influence:** - What role does optimism play in youth ministry, and how can it impact young people's development? 5. **Analogy of Pottery:** - The Project uses the analogy of pottery needing fire to become strong. How can this analogy be applied to personal growth and overcoming adversity? 6. **Community and Support:** - How important is community in helping individuals navigate through trials? Can you think of a time when community support made a difference in your life? 7. **Reframing Challenges:** - How can reframing challenges as opportunities for growth change our approach to difficult situations? 8. **Role of Faith in Adversity:** - How does faith influence the way we handle adversity? Are there specific teachings or beliefs that help you during tough times?
Season 2 of The Reaching Gen Z Podcast launches with a true patriot! I have nothing but high praise to give for his books on Gen Z. When I began my PhD research they were crucial to my project (you can access my dissertation for free here): https://digitalcommons.liberty.edu/doctoral/4514/If you're a youth pastor, ministry worker, volunteer, I recommend you pick up this book ASAP. Seriously, I highlighted his books and took a copious amount of notes. It is groundbreaking, theologically sound, and full of practical wisdom on how to engage Gen Z effectively with the gospel. Resources to check out: https://drtimmcknight.com/resources/Thanks again for tuning in to the podcast! We greatly appreciate all of your 5-Star reviews. If this show is helpful to you, share it with a friend. This helps other people find our content more easily and is a great encouragement as we continue to produce free content for the purpose of reaching Gen Z more effectively.Dr. Tim McKnight Bio: Tim is the founder and president of McKnight Ministries. He resides in Anderson, SC where he has served as the Director of the Great Commission Center for Youth Ministry at Anderson University. A Church planter of Mosaic church and now Lead Pastor of Holston Creek Baptist Church. He has authored Engaging Generation Z: Raising the Bar for Youth Ministry, and is the editor of Navigating Youth Ministry. A distinguished US Army Chaplain who has been commended for his service with Operation Noble Eagle & Operation Enduring Freedom; he's also an armed an unarmed self-defense instructor, but above all - A Christ follower. He is married to Angela, and proud father of Micah, Noah, Carissa, & Mary Anna.
Welcome to our Podcast.Listen to Mr.Kristian Jones, Director of Youth Ministries,as he preaches on Romans 8:1-8
Love to hear from you; “Send us a Text Message”What happens when we drop a 19th-century saint into our smartphone-saturated world? Kevin Wells, author of Coached by the Cure, Lessons in Shepherding with St. John Vianney joins Jack to explore this provocative question—and the answers might shake your perception of modern spirituality.Wells begins with a startling comparison: the smartphones we casually place in our children's hands are functioning as "miniature Ouija boards," disconnecting them from authentic spiritual experience. "I don't care about the Ouija board, that's 1970s," Wells argues. "I care about the Ouija board—that millions upon millions of kids' carry in their pockets." The conversation draws fascinating parallels between our current spiritual climate and post-Revolutionary France, where St. John Vianney arrived to find a spiritually dead farming community...and practical lessons for today!! This episode offers both the challenge and the pathway forward. Share your thoughts and experiences with us, and consider how you might implement these timeless principles in your own family and community.Get your Copy HERE! Contact Jack: info@jp2renew.orgFollow us and watch on X: John Paul II Renewal @JP2RenewalSubscribe to our Newly Resurrected YouTube Channel!On Rumble: JohnPaulIIRCIf you're interested in being a sponsor of the Become Who You Are Podcast, please email us at Info@JP2Renew.org Jack's Latest Blog: Marriage as a Sacrament: The Primordial Sign of Love!Support the show
Those of us who are followers of Jesus Christ are called to bear each others burdens. We are to pray for each other. As friends, we are to love at all times and be there for others during their times of adversity. One thing I've learned as I've spent time with Christian kids is that so many of them battle with loneliness, anxiety, and depression. Even though they are followers of Christ, their adolescent struggles seem to be no different than the struggles faced by their non-believing peers. We are being told that the mental health crisis among our kids is reaching epidemic proportions, and almost two in five teens say they are not getting the support they need. Of course, those of us who are parents need to be more diligent in our efforts to nurture our kids in the faith and support them in any way we can. But there's a role the larger body of Christ must play. You may not have teens of your own, but you can and must endeavor to support the kids in your church through your prayers and presence.
Send us a textNow is the time to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry...if you'd like to work with us, check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** That sinking feeling when your youth ministry isn't growing can trigger panic and questionable decisions. But what if your solution isn't going to bring the result you think it will? In this episode, we take a look at 5 mistakes youth pastors often make when they are faced with the reality that their youth group is shrinking in size. To be clear, the size of your youth group doesn't automatically equal effectiveness, and not every youth ministry is destined for thousands of attendees. However, when you sense momentum has disappeared or attendance is declining, it requires thoughtful investigation rather than hasty reactions. In this strategic episode, we take a look at the challenging reality of student ministry stagnation and offer practical tips for reversing the course.=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#235) SPORTS vs. YOUTH GROUP: 5 Ways to Win the Battle of Priorities!(#240) Do Numbers Matter? What Your Youth Ministry Numbers Are ACTUALLY Telling You!=======
Join John and Josh as they discuss youth ministry here at Grace.
THE SALT NETWORK's mission, goal, and objective is to plant churches in every major university city around the USA. Greg and Amy Larson are about as good a fit as it gets for this calling! Greg Larson was a Fellowship Of Christian Athletes full time missionary after 2 years in Major League Baseball. Greg met Amy, they married, and then were onto full time missions in Central Mexico. Since coming back to the states, Greg has been an associate pastor for several years in Florida and now God is leading he and his family to start a church in Colorado near Colorado State University. Want to support a family who is on the move to fulfill their part in the Great Commission? Enjoy listening to Greg's Interview and share this episode with your friends and family who are wanting to support the good news about Jesus Christ, especially to university students. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SALT NETWORK AT www.thesaltnetwork.com _______________________________ Looking for a new student ministry resource? You can read my book “Burn Up Not Out: A Student Ministry Fire Builder's Guidebook” here: https://amzn.to/3PtBTIy Listen to more episodes from the Youth Worker On Fire Podcast here: https://bit.ly/3saDyYq _______________________________ EPISODE CREDITS Email us at: youthworkeronfire@gmail.com Hosted by: Doug Edwards Theme Song: "The One and Only" by The 808 : Listen to more at https://bit.ly/3FTYIAJ Intro/Outro Voiceover: Michael Helms : https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelTheSoundGuy Edited by: Secret Roots Music House
Recorded live in Kampala, Uganda, this episode features a wide-ranging and deeply honest conversation on the practice of church leadership in a variety of contexts. Pastors from Calvary Chapel and Baptist traditions come together to address anonymous audience questions on everything from altar calls to tongues, from tithing to women in ministry, and from spiritual gifts to church planting proximity.With grace, humour, and biblical grounding, panelists explore:When (and why) to invite a public response after a sermonWhether Christians are cursed if they don't titheWhat spiritual gifts look like in different church culturesWhy some churches do not ordain women as pastorsHow to teach clearly about demons in spiritually sensitive culturesAnd the wisdom of planting churches near existing onesYou'll hear personal stories, pastoral insight, and moments of sharp theological clarity - all shaped by the lived experience of ministry in Uganda and beyond.Featuring:Eric Lockheart, lecturer and administrator at Uganda Baptist Seminary. He holds an MDiv in Christian Ministry and a ThM in Applied Theology, both from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary (Wake Forest, NC). Eric served as a pastor in the USA for 14 years before moving with his wife and four sons to Uganda in 2018 to serve under the IMB Baptist Mission. He loves teaching Hermeneutics and Homiletics, and enjoys sports, reading, fishing, and time with his family.James Senyonjjo Okurut, lecturer at Uganda Baptist Seminary since 2020, with over 20 years of ministry experience. He holds a BA from Makerere University (specialising in Communication), a BTh from UBS, and is pursuing a Master's from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.Zeddie Muzungu, Senior Pastor of Calvary Chapel Kampala and Director of Calvary Chapel Bible College Uganda. He is passionate about teaching God's Word and training future church leaders. He is married to Hope Muzungu.Ed Compean, lead pastor of Shoreline Calvary in Morro Bay, California. He previously served in Nairobi, Kenya, as a church planter and coach to emerging leaders, and is actively involved with the Cultivate Church Planting Initiative of Calvary Global Network.Join Mike Neglia and Brian Kelly at the upcoming CGN Ministry Conference June 22-25, 2025 This conference is designed for church leaders and their ministry teams to connect, collaborate, and grow together. Dive deep into John 13–17, The Upper Room Discourse, with our main session speakers, and attend workshops led by experienced leaders in key areas such as Lead and Senior Pastors, Executive and Associate Pastors, Women in Ministry, Children's Ministry, Youth Ministry, Worship, Small Groups and Care Leaders, Tech Teams, Administration, and Lay Leaders. Whether you're a pastor, ministry worker, or volunteer, this event is for your whole team. Join us for an inspiring time of learning, fellowship, and renewed vision for the work God has called us to!For information about our upcoming training events visit ExpositorsCollective.com The Expositors Collective podcast is part of the CGNMedia, Working together to proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, and plant churches. For more content like this, visit https://cgnmedia.org/Join our private Facebook group to continue the conversation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ExpositorsCollectiveDonate to support the work of Expositors Collective, in person training events and a free weekly podcast: https://cgn.churchcenter.com/giving/to/expositors-collective
Today, I'm joined by Cara Meredith, author of the new book Church Camp. We're digging into the ways camp shapes our faith, our friendships, and our sense of who belongs. We get real about the fun memories, but also the uncomfortable parts—who was included, who was left out, and what messages we picked up along the way. Cara and I talk about how camp can turn faith into a checklist—who's in, who's out, who fits and who doesn't. But we also imagine what camp could be if it became a place of real belonging, where every kid was seen and valued, no matter their story. If you've ever looked back on your camp experience with mixed feelings, or wondered how those weeks shaped your view of God and yourself, you'll find something here. This episode is about holding the good and the hard together, asking better questions, and dreaming about what's possible. So join us as we go to camp.A sought-after speaker, writer, and public theologian, Cara Meredith is the author of Church Camp and The Color of Life. Passionate about issues of justice, race, and privilege, Cara holds a master of theology from Fuller Seminary and is a postulant for Holy Orders in the Episcopal Church. With a background in education and nonprofit work, she wears more hats than she probably ought, but mostly just enjoys playing with words, a lot. Her writing has been featured in national media outlets such as The Oregonian, The New York Times, The Living Church, The Christian Century, and Baptist News Global, among others. She lives with her family in Oakland, California.Cara's Book:Church CampCara's Recommendation:Here I AmSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link below Support the show
In this episode of the You Can Mentor podcast, Zachary Garza interviews Randy Odom, President of Kids Across America (KAA), to explore the powerful impact of mentorship and the unique opportunities KAA provides for youth. Randy reflects on his own mentorship journey and discusses how camp experiences play a vital role in shaping young lives. The conversation highlights the Kaleo program, which develops young leaders, and offers insight into daily life at KAA—where the focus is on building strong relationships in a safe and supportive environment. The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to get involved and support KAA's mission.https://kaakamps.org/--Takeaways:KAA provides a safe and nurturing environment for kids.Mentorship is crucial for youth development and overcoming challenges.The camp experience can lead to significant personal transformation.Building trust is essential in mentorship relationships.The Kaleo program empowers youth leaders to support their communities.Effective training for counselors is vital for impactful mentorship.Real-life stories illustrate the power of mentorship.Daily activities at KAA are designed to foster relationships and personal growth.The camp emphasizes Christian values and community support.Investing in youth workers is key to sustaining mentorship efforts.--Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Kids Across America02:11 Randy Odom's Journey and Mentorship05:04 The Impact of Camp Experiences08:31 The Need for Mentorship in Today's Youth11:06 The Role of Mentorship in Overcoming Challenges13:31 Training Counselors for Effective Mentorship19:05 Real-Life Stories of Transformation20:19 The Kaleo Program and Its Importance25:47 The Camp Experience: Daily Life at KAA35:38 Conclusion and Call to Action--It would mean the WORLD to us if you would leave a 5 star rating on our pod so we can reach more people! Scroll down to the bottom the You Can Mentor page on Apple Podcasts and click "Write Review". On Spotify, go to our page, click the three dots next to the admin wheel, and hit "Rate Show". Thank you!Learn more about all we do at www.youcanmentor.com
Send us a textWant to work with us to grow a healthy, thriving youth ministry? Check out GrowYourYouthMinistry.com *** Are you looking to re-do your youth room to make it more magnetic and engaging for your students? Today, we will be taking you through a tour of our newly remodeled youth ministry room at church. This episode is full of intentional design ideas, but also it shows how we schedule our weekend services to promote growth and provide a welcoming environment that speaks directly to the energy of our students.Whether you're revamping your youth space or starting from scratch, this episode delivers actionable ideas that will transform how students experience your student ministry from the moment they walk through the door. Be sure to subscribe for more practical ministry insights that will help you create a youth ministry where students don't just attend—they belong.If you want to watch the full tour of our youth room, check it out on YouTube here:SHOPPING LIST:Check-in Station: https://www.rockrms.com/Mailbox: https://amzn.to/43gjQwFPiggy Bank/Box for Compassion Intl Donations: https://amzn.to/3ZefnZZHusky Tool Chest: https://amzn.to/4mj7SuUDoor "Donut": https://amzn.to/4j4zTDBTwo Way Radios: https://amzn.to/4kdMxRENintendo Switch: https://amzn.to/43vS7JyCountdown Timer for Camp: https://amzn.to/42X6dDGSilent Basketball: https://amzn.to/43gn6bnAnomia: https://amzn.to/4kk6BBYApples to Apples: https://amzn.to/4kcZmvqTaco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza: https://amzn.to/4kfaQ2hColoring Books: https://amzn.to/3YNH4c9Folding Chairs: https://amzn.to/4k5YM35Neon Signs: https://amzn.to/3YOtqWeMarket Lights: https://amzn.to/43lCseMFlat Screen TVs: https://amzn.to/42X5briWater Cooler: https://amzn.to/3ZeitxeStorage Bin: https://amzn.to/4j0ScJN=========We love hearing from you all and we do our best to provide powerful and insightful youth ministry content on a weekly basis to be that coach and mentor you may not have, but desperately need.If you have an episode idea, please E-Mail us at MinistryCoachPodcast@gmail.com!If you have it on your heart to support this ministry, please consider going to our Patreon page at: www.patreon.com/ministrycoach=========You may also enjoy these episodes:(#121) FREE TIME YOUTH MINISTRY GAMES - 6 Pre-Service Games Activities(BONUS) Youth Ministry Check in Systems - Simple Processes that Work!=======
In this episode of The Church Planting Podcast, host Greg Nettle is joined by Tim Celek from Stadia's post-launch team and two dynamic kids ministry leaders from Georgia—Brittany Ara of City Church Griffin and Robyn Alexander of Foundation Christian Church. Together, they outline five essential principles for church leaders who want to reach and disciple the next generation: Safety isn't optional – Every church needs a clear child protection policy. Not sure where to start? Ask neighboring churches to share their handbooks. Leadership matters – Recruit leaders who can lead teams, not just love kids. Burnout is real without shared responsibility. Let kids serve – Kids and teens need hands-on opportunities to experience their faith, not just hear about it. Know your ‘one' – Ditch cookie-cutter strategies and design ministry that fits your local community's needs and rhythms. Recruit with vision, not guilt – Celebrate wins from the stage, don't beg for volunteers. Help your team build a long-term system for healthy recruiting. They also share fun, creative ideas like using an ice cream truck for outreach and creating dual summer camp models for different demographics. It's a practical, passionate guide for any church looking to multiply its impact through children's ministry. 00:26 – Meet Brittany Ara & Robyn Alexander 02:10 – Why Stadia Prioritizes the Next Generation 03:15 – 5 Things Every Church Leader Needs to Know 03:45 – #1: Safety Must Come First 07:13 – #2: Healthy Kids Ministry Requires Strong Leadership 12:00 – #3: Empower Kids & Teens to Serve 14:00 – Creative Outreach Ideas: Ice Cream Truck Ministry 17:00 – Involving Kids in "Big Church" 19:11 – #4: Forget What You've Seen Before – Know Your Community 21:00 – Real-Life Camp Examples That Meet Families Where They Are 25:39 – Balancing Technology in Kids Ministry 26:00 – #5: Volunteer Recruiting Should Be Vision-Driven 29:00 – What Keeps These Leaders Going
What does it look like to prepare and preach the Bible in a way that's both faithful to the text and reliant on the Holy Spirit?In this panel discussion hosted by Mike Neglia, four experienced Bible teachers – Roy Kasika, Moses Ouni, Zeddie Muzungu, and Brian Kelly – respond to real questions about sermon prep, interpretation, and Spirit-led preaching. Recorded live in September 2024 at Calvary Chapel Kampala, Uganda, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and pastoral encouragement for those who teach God's Word.The conversation ranges from outlining and inductive Bible study to interpreting challenging genres like prophecy and apocalyptic literature. The panellists highlight the need for repeated prayer, contextual awareness, and a Christ-centred lens for every passage. Whether you're just starting out or you've been preaching for years, you'll find this discussion grounding, clarifying, and energising.