The Church in Action Podcast

Best of: Spiritual Disciplines Handbook | Adele Calhoun

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:00:00 -0400

Best of: How is your Spiritual Life?

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 21:00:00 -0400

Join us as we revisit our conversation with Pastor Ben Feldott, from Cape Cod Church on Spirituality. Knowing what it looks like, why it is important and get some ideas on how we can improve our own spiritual lives.

Best of: The Legacy VNE is Building on Today (Part 2)

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Revisit our conversation with Dennis Gill and Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald on honoring our history and those who have served so faithfully.

Best of: The Legacy VNE is Building on Today (Part 1)

Thu, 20 Aug 2026 17:00:00 -0400

Best Of: Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0400

This week we're revisiting our conversation with Pastor Dave Ripper about how Dallas Willard experienced Scripture … that God used to form him in Christ-likeness

CIA Colleen Kim Volunteers 2026 05 27 Main

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 09:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, Charles Galda is talking with Dr. Colleen Kim. Colleen's an educator, leadership coach, and creator of the Refresh Network hub of podcasts. She works with young people, and she has done dissertation work on volunteers and how they work in the church world and other organizations. She'll be sharing her learnings with us.

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Worcester Black Clergy Alliance Collaborating to Reach Worcester

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Tune in to Church in Action this week as Pastor Clyde Talley of Belmont AME in Zion shares what he is seeing God do on the ground in Worcester, both in his church and as a leader of the Black Clergy Alliance.

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Latino Pastors Collaborating to Reach New England - Part 2

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

🎙️ Podcast Drop: Part 2 is Here!

What happens when pastors stop competing and start becoming friends? 👀
In part two of our conversation with Pastor Sergio Perez, we dive into how unity, friendship, and humility have fueled decades of collaboration among church leaders—just like Jesus prayed for in John 17.

From the early days of COPAHNI to powerful stories of pastors finding support, renewal, and shared vision, this episode is a reminder that we’re better together. 🤝✨

🎧 Listen in and be encouraged by what God can do when leaders choose unity over isolation.

Latino Pastors Collaborating to Reach New England - Part 1

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 00:00:00 -0400

🌍 From Guatemala to Greater Boston—God’s call, a bold vision, and a movement of unity.

On this episode of Church in Action, host Charles Galda sits down with Sergio Perez, pastor of Harvest Ministries and founder of COPAHNI. Sergio shares his remarkable journey of faith, obedience, and how God led him to help unite Hispanic pastors across New England for the sake of regional renewal.

🎧 Don’t miss this powerful conversation about calling, friendship, repentance, and why revival is meant for an entire region—not just one church.

Listen now and be inspired to pursue unity for the sake of the gospel.

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Reaching Your Community with the Gospel - Part 2

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when churches stop competing and start trusting one another? In part two of this conversation, Kevin McBride joins host Charles Galda to explore how unity movements actually work—and why consistency, presence, and collaboration can transform a community.

If you care about churches working together for the good of their cities, this episode will challenge and encourage you. Listen now to Church in Action, produced by Vision New England.

Reaching Your Community with the Gospel - Part 1

Mon, 22 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

On this episode of Church in Action, host Charles Galda talks with Rev. Kevin McBride, pastor of Raymond Baptist Church, about collaboration, longevity, and why unity isn’t just another task—it’s the lens for faithful ministry.

Rooted in decades of experience and New England–specific research, this conversation offers wisdom for pastors and leaders committed to building trust, working together, and serving their communities for the long haul.

Reaching the North Shore with the Gospel - Part 2

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Part 2 of our conversation is here. What if church wasn’t about getting bigger, but about becoming faithful together? In this episode, Pastor Bobby Warrenburg shares how the North Shore Gospel Partnership is helping churches shift from competition to collaboration, from counting attendance to forming disciples, from addition to multiplication, and from simply gathering people to equipping and mobilizing them for everyday life. It’s a hopeful and challenging vision for pastors and leaders who long to see real transformation in their communities—not in isolation, but together. Listen in and be encouraged by what God is doing on the North Shore.

Reaching the North Shore with the Gospel - Part 1

Mon, 08 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when churches stop competing and start collaborating?

This week, Charles Galda sits down with Bobby Warrenburg, pastor of North Shore Community Baptist Church, to talk about the vision behind the North Shore Gospel Partnership—a growing movement of churches working together so more people have access to Jesus.

From global ministry experience to local gospel partnership, this is a hopeful and practical conversation about unity, mission, and rethinking what success in ministry really looks like.

🎧 Listen now—and join us next week for Part 2!

Biggest Challenges Facing the Church in the Next 5-10 Years

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0400

We’re re-sharing one of our most engaging Church in Action conversations—an interview that sparked so much interest, we had to bring it back.

Join Charles Galda as he sits down with Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd to talk about courageous faith, leadership in complex times, mental health, family, and what the Church needs to have on its radar right now.

This is a rich, timely conversation for pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone seeking to live out their faith with wisdom and courage.

🎧 Listen now and be encouraged for the season ahead.

The Blessings of Serving Those Affected by Disability

Mon, 25 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What does it look like when the Church truly welcomes families affected by disability?

This week on Vision New England’s Church in Action podcast, host Charles Galda talks with Liz Babbitt and Hannah Bollacke from Joni and Friends New England about family retreats, inclusive ministry, and how everyday people can serve—no experience required.

It’s a powerful conversation about belonging, hope, and a glimpse of the body of Christ in its fullness.

The Spiritual Discipline of Suffering

Mon, 18 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when life changes in an instant?

This week on Vision New England’s Church in Action, Charles Galda talks with Pastor Brian Dube of Christian Fellowship Center in New Bedford about a sudden, life-threatening health crisis that left him fully paralyzed and fighting for his life. Brian shares what it was like to face total uncertainty, surrender control, and learn to trust God in the middle of suffering.

It’s an honest, hope-filled conversation about faith when answers are unclear—and what it means to truly “taste and see” the goodness of God.

🎧 Listen now and be encouraged.

History of Revivals in New England - Part 2

Mon, 11 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the next awakening doesn’t start somewhere else—but right here in New England? 🌱

In Part 2 of the Church in Action Program, host Charles Galda continues a powerful conversation with Adam de Pasquale of Walnut Hill Community Church on the Great Awakenings, perseverance, prayer, and why studying our spiritual history can spark bold faith today.

From town greens to college campuses, this episode will stir your heart and leave you praying, “Lord, do it again.”

History of Revivals in New England - Part 1

Mon, 04 May 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if remembering New England’s spiritual past could ignite its future?

On this week’s Church in Action Podcast, Charles Galda talks with Adam DePasquale of Walnut Hill Community Church about revival, faith, and why God’s work in New England is far from finished.

From personal calling to powerful stories of past awakenings, this conversation invites us to pray boldly, lead faithfully, and believe that God can move again—right here.

🎧 Tune in now.

The Financially Resilient Church

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What if the future of the Church in New England isn’t just more churches—but healthier, more resilient ones?

🎙️ This week on the Church in Action Podcast from Vision New England, host Charles Galda sits down with Jarrod Spalding, co-founder of Vision Partners.

They dive into why small churches matter, how disciple-making has to be more than Sunday services, and why financial resilience is becoming mission-critical for churches across New England. From creative use of church assets to innovative funding models that fuel the mission, this conversation is both honest and hopeful.

👉 If you care about the long-term health of the Church, this episode is for you.
🎧 Listen in and join the conversation.

Fight for Freedom

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when a pastor from New England says yes to God’s call—straight into a global crisis?

This week on Church in Action Program, host Charles Galda sits down with Craig Mowrey, Leadership & Development Director with Fight for Freedom.

From Connecticut to Romania and Ukraine, Craig shares gripping stories of rescuing orphans amid war, restoring lives after prison, and following Jesus when obedience feels costly.

This is a moving conversation about faith, justice, and hope—and how God is at work through the global Church, starting right here in New England.

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A Woman's Journey with God

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

Host Charles Galda sits down with Rev. Dr. Moreen Hughes of Concord Baptist Church of Boston to talk spiritual formation, Christian character, and her book A Woman’s Journey with God: Engaging in the Spiritual Disciplines. A powerful conversation for anyone longing to grow deeper with God.

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Best of: C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard on Justice

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation on biblical justice—through the surprising wisdom of Dallas Willard and C.S. Lewis. These giants of the faith aren’t usually linked with justice conversations, which makes this episode all the more compelling.

🎙️ Joined by Jahdiel Perez, Postdoctoral Fellow at Villanova University, and Pastor Dave Ripper of Crossway Christian Church, this discussion will challenge and inspire the way you think about faith in action.

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Cape Awakening - Part 2

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

What happens when revival costs something?

In Part 2 of Church in Action, Ben Feldott continues the story of the Cape Awakening—and the surprising people God used to change the spiritual temperature of an entire town.

A pastor who lost his church after being converted.
A young woman whose encounter with Jesus sparked a town-wide revival.
And a legacy that shaped Cape Cod for generations.

🎧 Listen now and discover the power of faithful pastors, ordinary people, and lasting legacy.

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Cape Awakening - Part 1

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

A forgotten revival… right on Cape Cod?

What if God had already done something incredible in your community—and most people have forgotten the story?

In this episode of Church in Action, Pastor Ben Feldott of Cape Cod Church shares the stunning discovery of an early 1800s awakening that transformed the entire town on Cape Cod.

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Serving the Disability Community: A Blessing

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This week on Vision New England’s Church in Action, we talk with Mary Swank from Valley Community Baptist Church about how churches can love their communities through disability ministry, foster care, and local partnerships. Be inspired by what God is doing through ordinary faithfulness—listen now!

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Reinvigorating Discipleship

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0400

This week on Vision New England’s Church in Action, Charles Galda sits down with Kirk Patterson, lead pastor of Trinity Evangelical Church, to talk about disciple-making, ministry in New England, and helping people hear and obey Jesus. Thoughtful, honest, and deeply practical—don’t miss it!

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Growing People Spiritually in House Churches

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This week on Church in Action, Charles Galda talks with Pastor Dereck Jackson, lead pastor and church planter of Earthen Vessels Community Church, about house-churches, disciple-making, and living faith beyond Sunday. A compelling conversation on forming disciples through real community—listen now!

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Everyday Mission - Part 3

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This is the second of a three part series where we're talking with Jesus followers around New England who are intentionally living on mission in their everyday places and spaces; being good news people to their friends, their neighbors, and their coworkers. This week we're talking with Susan Cabana, a teacher in Maine.

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Everyday Mission - Part 2

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

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Everyday Mission - Part 1

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first of a three part series where we're talking with Jesus followers around New England who are intentionally living on mission in their everyday places and spaces; being good news people to their friends, their neighbors, and their coworkers. This week we're talking with a high school English language teacher.

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Awakening in New England - Part 2

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This week we'll continue our conversation with Chris Goeppner of Riverbank Church in White River Junction, talking about the history of awakenings coming from New England, the impact they had on the world, and that maybe God might be starting to do something similar even today.

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Awakening in New England - Part 1

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This week, Charles Galda will be talking about the rich church history that New England has with our friend and former board member Chris Goeppner, pastor of River Bank Church in White River Junction, Vermont. You will not want to miss the history of awakening and maybe the seeds of another awakening.

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Civil Rights: Did Busing Help or Hurt?

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0500

This week on Church in Action, Charles Galda is talking with Bishop Larry Ward, recently retired leader of Abundant Life Church in Cambridge, about his personal experience being a student of busing in the sixties and seventies.

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Study on Suicidal Ideation in Churches

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

Karen Mason, of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, joins us on Church in Action to share the results of her study on those who experience suicidal ideation in our churches. Don't miss this insightful conversation.

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Biggest Challenges Facing the Church in the Next 5-10 Years

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0500

On this week's Church in Action Sunday, we're talking with Reverend Dr. J Anthony Lloyd of Greater Framingham Community Church in Massachusetts. Dr. Lloyd's got his pulse on what's happening in New England and what we need to be focused on in the coming year.

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New England Prayer Week January 2026

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

On this week’s Church in Action, we are revisiting a November conversation about a week of Prayer that vision New England is hosting this January all across the states of New England. Noelle Jones and Adam DePasquale are sharing inspiring stories about the power of prayer for revival and transformation.

Go to visionnewengland.org/events to sign up!

Feed Starving Children as a Thrive Initiative

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Don't miss this week's Church in Action. Host Charles Galda is talking with Doug Scalise, the pastor of Brewster Baptist Church on Cape Cod. Doug is a founding pastor of Thrive Cape Cod which led to a new initiative called Feed My Starving Children, which has packed more than 106,000 meals for starving children in Africa and Central America.

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Thrive Farmington Valley

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Don’t miss this week’s Church in Action! Charles Galda sits down with Rob O’Neal—pastor of Farmington Valley Baptist Church in Avon and co-founder of Thrive Farmington Valley—to explore how churches are linking arms to strengthen one another and mobilize people to serve their communities with the love of Jesus.

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Praying the Parables of Jesus

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on Church in Action: Charles Galda talks with Dr. Steve Macchia about his new book, Praying the Parables of Jesus—offering fresh insights that call us deeper into life with Jesus.

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Best Of: What It Means To Be Church

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 04:00:00 -0500

We’re bringing back one of our most inspiring episodes! Gavin and Ann Calver join us to explore what it truly means to be the Church. Tune in!

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New England Week of Prayer

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

On Church in Action this week, Noelle Jones, Vision New England's Prayer Director and Adam DePasquale, Lead pastor executive of Walnut Hill Community Church are talking about a 24/7 Prayer Week happening in New England this January.

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Learn more here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSftYBiJTbgJDzb6rNLJb-knzjf3IXmSY99-7x2maoYr_J2PDg/viewform

Church Planting/ 521 Collaborative

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on Church In Action, we're talking with Andy Needham about the 5 2 1 Collaborative, which is working across New England to support and encourage church multiplication. We'll be talking about church planting, church revitalization, and new campuses.

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What on Earth is God Doing ... with Data?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on Church in Action, we're talking with Dr. Ryan Burge, Associate Professor of Political Science at Eastern Illinois University, about what God is doing, using hard data that reveals some fascinating trends and issues.

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Training to transform your community from Gordon College

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 04:00:00 -0500

On this week's episode of Church in Action, we're talking with Sharon Ketcham, Dean of Gordon College's School of Ministry Theology and Biblical Studies, about equipping followers of Jesus with practical training to transform their community.

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"Practicing the Way" of Jesus to become like Jesus

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on Church In Action, we're talking with Leiko McSherry of Cape Cod Church about teaching people to live like Jesus so they can become like Jesus using a resource called "Practicing the Way".

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Talking Across Generations

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, we are talking to Dr. James Choung, Intervarsity Vice President of Strategy and Innovation about generational patterns and variations as we seek to help the church reach, serve and engage each generation with the gospel.

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Reaching "The Anxious Generation"

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Tune in to Church in Action this week to hear about how the wired childhood is causing an anxiety and depression epidemic among young people. We're talking with Kyler Barr, who has spent 20 years working in NextGen ministry with young people and consulting with pastors across New England.

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Foundations of a Discipling Culture - Tim Bushfield

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, we are continuing our series about church culture shifts specifically around building a church culture that makes disciples who make disciples. Pastor Tim Bushfield, of Community Church of East Gloucester, is joining us to share his experiences.

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Foundations of a Discipling Culture

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, we are continuing our series about church culture shifts specifically around building a church culture that makes disciples who make disciples. Pastor Matt Beattie, Executive Director of Alpha New England, is joining us to share his experiences.

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Foundation of a Discipling Culture

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on Church in Action, we are starting a series about church culture shifts specifically around building a church culture that makes disciples who make disciples. Albie Powers, Lead Pastor of Elm City Church in Keene NH, is joining us to share his experiences and to kick off our series.

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Women Leaders Equipping Day

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we're talking with Gina Mueller about an equipping event she's putting together for women in Christian leadership on October 18th in Avon, Connecticut. Gina's the Disciple-Making Catalyst at Vision New England.

She has more than two decades experience in a variety of leadership roles in a number of ministry. She's been working with other key female leaders to develop this event to equip, support and encourage women in Christian leadership.

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To learn more, click here: Women's Equipping Day

RELATE: Building Relationships, Equipping Leaders, Thriving in Ministry

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week, on Church in Action, we are talking to Rev. David Payne about Relate Boston, a one day conference for pastors on October 14th. David is the lead pastor of Lifesong Church in Sutton, MA, a great friend and Board Member of Vision New England. To learn more, click here: Relate Boston Conference

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Are The Poor with You This Week?

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we're talking with Steve Spear, the Director of Church Engagement at World Vision, about a number of new initiatives that will advance the kingdom by doing justice so that our light shines in such a way that people see our good works and praise our Father in heaven.

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To learn more about World Vision, click below!
www.worldvision.org/vnechosen

Best Of: Exploring the Enduring allure of C.S. Lewis

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we revisit this enlightening conversation with Jahdiel Perez! Jahdiel is a professor at Villanova University and is completing his doctorate in Philosophy at Oxford, where he is the president of the C.S. Lewis society. In this Best Of episode, he shares with us some of the reasons why C.S. Lewis has proved to be so influential and we reflect on the legacy he has left behind.

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Best Of: Intentional, Practical Disciple Making with Gordon MacDonald, Pt. 2

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 08:00:00 -0400

This week we revisit part 2 of an episode with Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald. Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald was the former lead pastor of Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, led InterVarsity, is the author of many books and much more. He is no stranger to Vision New England and we are excited for you to hear from his heart on Practical Disciple Making!

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Best Of: Intentional, Practical Disciple Making with Gordon MacDonald, Pt. 1

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week we revisit an episode with Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald. Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald was the former lead pastor of Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, led InterVarsity, is the author of many books and much more. He is no stranger to Vision New England and we are excited for you to hear from his heart on Practical Disciple Making!

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Best Of: Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we revisit an encouraging episode with Pastor Dave Ripper, author of Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus: Reading the Bible like Dallas Willard. Dave is also the Lead Pastor of Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, NH. To listen to part two of this episode, visit our YouTube Channel or anywhere you stream podcasts.

Creating an Evangelism Culture Through Alpha New England

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we have an encouraging discussion with Lisa Oelerich! Lisa is the Director of Strategic Relationships at Alpha New England, and together, we discuss how churches are using Alpha as a tool for disciple-making and evangelism.

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To learn more about Alpha New England, click below!
https://www.alphanewengland.org/

Making Missional Disciples: Developing Everyday People to Live on Mission

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, our series on making disciples continues as we talk about how you can raise up and empower everyday followers of Jesus to live on mission in their everyday lives. Guest host, Gina Mueller, Vision New England's Disciple Making Catalyst, talks with Pastor Justin Barney, lead pastor of River Valley Church in Wapole, NH.

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To learn more about River Valley Church, click below!
https://www.rivervalleychurch.com/

Making Disciples in Community

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we talk with disciple-making leader, entrepreneur, and coach to women leaders, Austin Catalano! We will be talking about sharing our lives in community with others and how life in that community impacts how we make disciples.

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

Making Disciples

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode we talk with Pastor Rocklyn Clarke, Senior Pastor and Founder of Life Church Boston. We will be talking about sharing our lives in community with others and the importance of that as we make disciples. Tune in for this encouraging conversation!Follow Us!

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Life Church Boston, click below!
https://lifechurchboston.org/

Holistic Disciple Making: Formation, Community, and Mission

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking about Holistic Disciple Making and how imitating the life of Jesus impacts our lives and our churches. We're talking with Lead Pastor of Emmaus City Church in Worcester, MA - Pastor Michael Sullivan. Join our Disciple Making catalyst, Gina Mueller, for this inspiring conversation!

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Emmaus City Church, click below!
https://emmauscitychurch.com/

How is Your Spiritual Life?

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we have an encouraging episode with Pastor Ben Feldott, Lead Pastor of Cape Cod Church! We will be discussing his spiritual life so that we can better understand what one looks like, why it's important, and to get some ideas on how to improve our own spiritual lives.

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Facebook: https://facebook.com/visionnewengland
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Cape Cod Church, click below!
https://www.capecodchurch.com/

Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Christ - Part 2

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we're diving into part 2 of our interview with Pastor Dave Ripper of Crossway Christian Church on Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus! We discuss his new book that was written based on his dissertation and the teachings he learned in his time with Dallas Willard. This is an encouraging listen and we hope it encourages you!

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To purchase Dave Ripper's book, click below!
bit.ly/3ZkZBNk

Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple of Jesus - Part 1

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action we are talking with Pastor Dave Ripper, author of Experiencing Scripture as a Disciple Jesus: Reading the Bible Like Dallas Willard. Dave is the lead pastor at Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, NH, studied with Dallas Willard and wrote this book based on his dissertation.

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To purchase Dave Ripper's book, click below!

bit.ly/3ZkZBNk

How Overseed is Supporting Pastors and their Spouses

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we are talking about a ministry called Overseed and how it supports pastors and their spouses in New England. We will be talking with the President of Overseed, Dr. Jim Harrell, along with his wife, Sharon Harrell who is the Field Director for their pastor spouses ministry. Dr. Jim and Sharon are passionate about serving the Church through caring for its ministers.

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Overseed, click below!

https://overseed.org/about-us/

Church Planting Research

Mon, 26 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we're discussing research on New England church planting, published in the Church Landscape Review by the Emmanuel Gospel Center. We're talking with Stacie Mickelson, Executive Director of the Emmanuel Gospel Center (EGC).

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Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Emmanuel Gospel Center and their Church Landscape Review, click below!
https://www.egc.org/churchlandscapereview

Abide - Emmaus Recruiting

Mon, 19 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action we are talking about some exciting offerings that will help us grow ourselves and others spiritually. We will be talking with Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia, founder and president of Leadership Transformations, as well as the author of over 16 books!

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland
Facebook: https://facebook.com/visionnewengland
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Leadership Transformations and their Cohorts, click below!
https://www.leadershiptransformations.org/training/

How Is Your Spiritual Life?

Mon, 12 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

On this episode of the Church in Action, we are talking with Jua Robinson, Executive Director of Boston Collaborative. We will be talking about his personal spiritual life! This was a great conversation and we pray that as you listen, you will be inspired on how you can deepen your relationship with Christ through your own daily spiritual journey.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland
Facebook: https://facebook.com/visionnewengland
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Boston Collaborative, click below!
https://bostoncollaborative.org

How is Your Spiritual Life?

Sun, 04 May 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we are talking with Pastor Steven White, Lead Pastor of First Baptist Church of Salem, Massachusetts. We will be discussing his spiritual life, in hopes that it may inspire you as you continue developing yours. You may get some ideas or prompts from the Holy Spirit that you can start implementing in your daily life today!

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Facebook: https://facebook.com/visionnewengland
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about First Baptist Church of Salem, click below!
https://www.firstbaptistchurchsalem.com/

New England Day of Prayer

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action we are joined by a very special guest host, Pastor Adam DePasquale, one of the Lead Pastors at Walnut Hill Community Church. Pastor Adam sits down with Noelle Jones, Director of The Living Room, a house of prayer located in Henniker, NH. Together they discuss the power of prayer and an incredible prayer initiative that Noelle is spearheading to unite Christ followers across each of New England’s 6 states!

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland
Facebook: https://facebook.com/visionnewengland
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org

To learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church and The Living Room, click below!
https://walnuthillcc.org/

https://www.thelivingroomhenniker.com/

Best Of: C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard on Justice

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Join us this week on the Church in Action as we revisit an enriching episode on the biblical imperative to do biblical justice from the perspectives of Dallas Willard and C.S. Lewis. Two great voices in the church but not typically known for speaking on topics such as biblical justice. In this episode, we are joined by Jahdiel Perez, a Postdoctoral Fellow at Villanova University, and Pastor Dave Ripper, Lead Pastor at Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, NH.

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Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

Disciple Making Labs

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

We have an encouraging and practical episode of the Church in Action coming to you this week! We will be sitting down with Gina Mueller who has served as a pastor and has led national disciple-making ministries but currently serves as Vision New England's Disciple Making Catalyst. We will be talking about her spiritual life. What does it look like? How can we learn from it? And how can we implement some key tools into our own spiritual practices?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about the Disciple Maker Leader Lab, click below!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/make-disciples-leader-lab-tickets-1270591436189?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thrive Cape Cod: Blessing Our Communities in Unity

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action, we are discussing how the people of God can help their communities thrive by fixing what's broken and missing in our communities and churches. We will be talking to Pastor Ben Feldott, Senior Pastor of Cape Cod Church and a key leader and partner in hosting Thrive Cape Cod.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about Cape Cod Church, click below!
https://www.capecodchurch.com/

What is the Biblical Purpose and Mandate for Your Church?

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Join us this week on the Church in Action Program for a continuation of teachings from Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd. In this session, he helps us discover our biblical purpose all while recognizing the power and providence of our God. Rev. Dr. Lloyd is such a wise leader to glean truth from, you don't want to miss it!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about Greater Framingham Community Church, click below!
https://www.gfccnet.org/web/

A Call to Ministry is Different than Any Other Job

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

Join us for this week's Church in Action Program! For this episode, we are doing something a little bit different. We welcome Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd, Senior Pastor of Greater Framingham Community Church and Professor at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary. In this session, he takes the time to teach on our call to ministry. We ALL have this unique responsibility no matter our vocation!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about Greater Framingham Community Church, click below!
https://www.gfccnet.org/web/

How Is Your Spiritual Life?

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action Program we welcome Rev. Dr. Moreen Hughes, Associate Pastor and Minister to Women at Concord Baptist Church in Boston. As an influential voice regarding spiritual formation, she shares with us her personal spiritual formation journey and what it looks like in her daily life. Join Church in Action Co-Host, Brittany Feldott, Pastoral Associate of Cape Cod Church, for this encouraging and challenging conversation.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about Concord Baptist Church, click below!
https://www.cbcboston.org/

Helping Our Churches and Communities Thrive

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action Program, we are talking about how the people of God can help fix their churches and communities, as well as help them thrive by fixing what's broken and missing. We will be talking with Pastor Rob O'Neal, Senior Pastor at Valley Community Baptist Church and a key leader and partner in hosting THRIVE Farmington Valley.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visionnewengland/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VisionNewEngland/
Website: https://www.visionnewengland.org/

To learn more about Valley Community Baptist Church, click below!
https://avon.valleycommunity.cc/

140 Years of God Moving in New England - Part 2

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action Program, we continue part 2 of the conversation with guest host Brittney Feldott, a Vision New England board member and pastoral associate at Cape Cod Church, and Vision New England president Charles Galda. In this episode, they discuss our 140-year history and its evolution. God continues to move and the best is yet to come!

140 Years of God Moving in New England - Part 1

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the church in action program, Brittany Feldott, Pastoral Associate at Cape Cod Church and Board Member of Vision New England, interviews Vision New England President, Charles Galda. They talk about the rich history of the organization, how it got started and the evolution of the many things God has done throughout its history to impact the local Church today. What an encouraging conversation!

Reaching Restricted Countries

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action podcast, we’re talking about how people here in New England can minister to closed countries! Closed countries are countries in which religious practice is heavily restricted. We’ll be talking with Bill Blount, president of Blount Communications, which you may know as Life Changing Radio. This is an interesting episode that gets us thinking outside of ourselves and opens the conversation to ways we can effectively share the gospel.

AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep: Leading and Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this week’s episode, Dr. Paul Hoffman, who co-authored AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep with Dr. Sean O'Callaghan, will discuss his latest book. The book explores how Christians should respond to AI technology and examines its social and ethical impacts on ministry and teaching. Dr. Hoffman is the senior pastor of the Evangelical Friends Church, a Professor at Seminary Now, and co-author of Preaching to a Divided Nation. This is a captivating discussion you won’t want to miss!

Civil Rights Story

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action Program we revisit an amazing conversation with Reverend Esau Vance, Senior Pastor of Mount Olive Pentecostal Church in Worcester, Massachusetts. In this best of episode, we discuss discipleship and what it looks like to disadvantage ourselves to understand others and bridge divides in the Church.

"Fresh Expressions" of Church

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action Program, we have an interesting discussion on innovative ways to “do church”, evangelism and disciple making. We are joined by Chris Backert, Senior Director of Fresh Expressions North America, and Kathleen Blackey, Senior Coordinator of Communications for Fresh Expressions and Co-Pastor of First Baptist Church of South Londonderry, Vermont. We hope you enjoy this fun and unique conversation!

Church Revitalization

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

This week, Dr. Terry Dorsett, Executive Director of the Baptist Churches of New England, joins the Church in Action Program. Dr. Dorsett has been serving in ministry throughout New England since 1994 and has much to add regarding church revitalization. In this conversation, he discusses the difference between church planting and revitalization and how existing churches can refocus and reshape how they bring the gospel to the community.

Embers of Hope: When Depression Comes to the Church

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

Pastor Bryan Cerrone, Waterbury Campus Pastor at Walnut Hill Community Church, joins us to discuss his new book, Embers of Hope: When Depression Comes to the Church. The discussion is an enlightening and encouraging discussion about loving Jesus and therapy, being committed to following Jesus while still wrestling with depression and anxiety, and the call for a conversation between the church and those experiencing depression.

How to Quiet a Hurricane - How to Endure Suffering

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we are joined by Pastor Justin Kendrick, Lead Pastor of Vox Church, to discuss his new book, "How to Quiet a Hurricane," and how we as Christians can endure suffering and the part the Church plays in that unique journey.

Making Disciples Like Jesus Did

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

We're taking a break from our regular content to share an episode from our Making Disciples series. In this conversation, Gina Mueller, VNE’s Disciple Making Catalyst and former Director of 3dMovements North America, brings us back to Jesus' disciple making model. Gina, who has over 15 years of experience in discipleship ministry, shares valuable insights about following Jesus and learning how to be radically obedient to His ways. Her expertise in disciple making, both on small and large scales, is a wonderful resource for aligning our priorities with God's, as we strive to be disciples who make disciples.

Becoming Like Jesus Through Silence and Solitude

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

We're taking a break from our regular content to share a favorite episode from our Becoming Like Jesus series. Rev. Dr. Bryan Wilkerson, Pastor Emeritus of Grace Chapel in Lexington, MA, shares the importance of silence and solitude in personal spiritual formation. As we head into Christmas week, we encourage you to reflect on the birth of our Savior as you practice these disciplines.

The New Testament in Color

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action podcast, we discuss a new resource, The New Testament in Color, a multi-ethnic commentary. Dr. Mateus de Campos, Associate Professor of New Testament at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary and contributing author to this valuable resource, joins the podcast to discuss this first-of-its-kind commentary.

The Legacy VNE is Building on Today - Part 2

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In part two of a two-part episode, we continue the conversation about VNE’s rich history during what we call the “Don Gill Years,” what God did, who was involved, and fun stories to honor our history and those who served so faithfully during those years. We talk with Dennis Gill and Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald. Dennis is Don Gill’s son and a well-known church planter, pastor, and former VNE director. Rev. Dr. MacDonald is a well-known pastor, author, and member of VNE’s Advisory Board.

The Legacy VNE is Building on Today - Part 1

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Vision New England has a rich history of impacting New England with the gospel of Jesus Christ because we desire that all might be saved. In part one of a two-part episode, we talk about that history during what we call the “Don Gill Years,” what God did, who was involved, and fun stories to honor our history and those who served so faithfully during those years. We talk with Dennis Gill and Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald. Dennis is Don Gill’s son and a well-known church planter, pastor, and former VNE director. Rev. Dr. MacDonald is a well-known pastor, author, and member of VNE’s Advisory Board.

VNE's Foundation and Legacy in the Macchia Years - Part 2

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This is part two of a conversation about Vision New England's rich history. We’re talking about what we like to call the Macchia Years with Steve Macchia and Caleb and Bonny Loring. Join us to hear about what God did, who was involved, and some fun stories from that era in our history!

VNE's Foundation and Legacy in the Macchia Years - Part 1

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Vision New England has a rich history. In this two-part episode, we’re talking about what we like to call the Macchia Years with Steve Macchia and Caleb and Bonny Loring! Join us to hear about what God did, who was involved, and some fun stories from that era in our history.

Election Recap

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In this week’s episode, Rev. Enoch Liao and Rev. Sergio Perez join us for an uplifting and encouraging post-election conversation. Whatever your political stance, we can all agree that Christ is our anchor, and He is in control! In this discussion, we ask ourselves questions such as, How do we have a kingdom mentality after the election? How do we approach election results with grace? And are we striving to look like Jesus?

Being a Disciple in an Election Year - Part 4

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 04:00:00 -0500

In the last episode of this four-part series, we continue the conversation with Rev. Sergio Perez, Rev. Ray Hammond, and Rev. Enoch Liao about the biblical principles that should be reflected in our voting and our call to reflect the love of Christ.In the last episode of this four-part series, we continue the conversation with Rev. Sergio Perez, Rev. Ray Hammond, and Rev. Enoch Liao about the biblical principles that should be reflected in our voting and our call to reflect the love of Christ.

Being a Disciple in an Election Year - Part 3

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part three of this four-part series, we continue the conversation with Rev. Sergio Perez, Rev. Ray Hammond, and Rev. Enoch Liao about the biblical principles that should be reflected in our voting and our call to reflect the love of Christ.

Being a Disciple in an Election Year - Part 2

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part two of this four-part series, we continue the conversation with Rev. Sergio Perez, Rev. Ray Hammond, and Rev. Enoch Liao about the biblical principles that should be reflected in our voting and our call to reflect the love of Christ.

Being a Disciple in an Election Year - Part 1

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Amid a divisive election, as Christians, it's easy to get caught up in partisanship and forget about the biblical principles that should be reflected in our voting and our call to reflect the love of Christ. In part one of a four-part series, we discuss key election issues, the biblical principles at stake, and how they inform our voting and behavior. This is an enlightening and informative conversation with pastors Rev. Sergio Perez, Rev. Ray Hammond, and Rev. Enoch Liao.

De-Escalating Partisan Tensions with The After Party

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Politics can be divisive in our churches and communities. In this episode, we’re talking to Rev. Travis Bond about how The After Party, a small group curriculum, is helping his congregation better understand their political differences and reduce tensions in the church and community.

We are Called to the Ministry of Reconciliation

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about peacemakers—the people God called us to be. Rev. Dr. Paul Hoffman, senior pastor at Evangelical Friends Church of Newport, RI, joins the podcast to share his thoughts and insights about moving toward unity and peace in the Body of Christ.

Growing Through Spiritual Practices

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week on the Church in Action Program, we talk to Rev. Cindy Cabral, Pastor of Lively Stones Christian Center in Brockton, MA. This conversation takes a deep dive into making disciples, growing people spiritually to be like Jesus, and resources that can help you.

The Public Reading of Scripture: Dwelling in God's Word - Part 2

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In the last episode, we sat down with Andy Mills to discuss his thoughts on the public reading of scripture as it relates to personal growth. The conversation continues in this episode with part two. What an encouraging listen!

The Public Reading of Scripture: Dwelling in God's Word - Part 1

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part one of a two-part episode, Andy Mills joins the podcast to discuss the public reading of scripture as it relates to spiritual growth. Andy is the co-chair of the Grace & Mercy Foundation. He served as a board member and senior fellow at Kings College and co-chair of the Theology of Work project. We hope the discussion encourages you in your spiritual journey!

De-escalating Partisan Tensions with The After Party

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Karen Munn, Pastor at Orchard Covenant Church in Indian Orchard, MA, discusses how a small group curriculum is helping her church de-escalate political tensions in its congregation, communities, and families.

The Spiritual Disciplines Handbook with Rev. Adele Calhoun

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Do you long for a more intimate prayer life or deeper insight from God's Word, but just don't know how to get there? Then this episode is for you! Rev. Dr. Adele Calhoun joins us to show how desires and discipline work together to lead us to the transformation we long for―transformation only Christ can bring.

Gordon-Conwell: Church Planting Degree

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we’re talking about accelerating evangelism through church planting. Erin Crider, Professor of Practical Theology and Director of Church Planting at Gordon-Conwell joins the podcast to discuss the seminary’s church planting degree and her passion for educating and keeping the conversation going about the purpose and importance of planting churches in our communities.

Leadership Transformations - Part 2

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part two of this episode, Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia continues to share how Leadership Transformations, Inc. helps ministry leaders form godly habits of soul care and rest while allowing God to disciple them as they disciple others!

Leadership Transformations - Part 1

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

We’re sharing one of our favorite two-part episodes on the Church in Action program!

Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia shares how and why he began Leadership Transformations, a ministry created to transform leaders spiritually through rest and godly soul care practices.

Dr. Macchia is the founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Director of the Pierce Center for Disciple Making at Gordon-Conwell, and author of 16 books.

Become a Disciple Making Church

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode on the Church in Action Podcast, we sit down with Gina Mueller, Director of 3DM, and Kirk Patterson, Lead Pastor of Trinity Evangelical Church. Join us as we discuss what it means to become a disciple making church.

What is an Evangelical? - Part 2

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part two of a two-part episode, we discuss the challenges of evangelicalism and its definition with Gordon College President Mike Hammond.

What is an Evangelical? - Part 1

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part one of a two-part episode, we discuss the challenges of evangelicalism and its definition with Gordon College President Mike Hammond.

Being Human: Getting Past the Half-Gospel - Part 2

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part two of this two-part conversation, we’re talking with Jo Frost, Co-Director of the Being Human Project, about an amazing new small group resource from our friends at the Evangelical Alliance in the UK!

Being Human: Getting Past the Half-Gospel - Part 1

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part one of this two-part conversation, we’re talking with Jo Frost, Co-Director of the Being Human Project, about an amazing new small group resource from our friends at the Evangelical Alliance in the UK!

Navigating Polarization and Partisanship in the Church

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In the episode, Russell Moore, Editor-in-Chief at Christianity Today, joined the podcast to discuss navigating polarization and partisanship in the Church. What a thought-provoking conversation!

Loving the Survivor of Sexual Exploitation - Part 2

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part two of this two-part conversation, Mary Speta, Executive Director of Amirah, shares the challenges survivors of sexual exploitation face and what loving them truly looks like.

Loving the Survivor of Sexual Exploitation - Part 1

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In part one of this two-part conversation, Mary Speta, Executive Director of Amirah, shares the challenges survivors of sexual exploitation face and what loving them truly looks like.

Hagar's Sisters: Combating Domestic Violence

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we talk about the fight against domestic violence with Joyce Shetler Holt, Founding President & Executive Director of Hagar’s Sisters, which seeks to end the cycle of abuse with the power of God.

Helping Children Bring Their Trauma To The Cross

Mon, 27 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Rochelle Jones, Director of Education at BMA TenPoint Victory Generation, joins the podcast to discuss healing from trauma, particularly for children.

Celebrating World Relief's 80th Anniversary

Mon, 20 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode re-broadcast, Patty MacDonald joins us to talk about World Relief, the country’s largest Christian relief agency. World Relief is celebrating its 80th anniversary, evidencing the love of Jesus by doing work in some of the most critical and toughest areas across the globe.

Exploring Our Jewish Roots

Mon, 13 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we’re talking with Suzy Silk about better understanding the roots of our faith in Judaism and how we can love and serve Jewish people in our communities.

The Need for Foster Care Families

Mon, 06 May 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we're discussing foster care with Marie Briggs, Executive Director of Beloved. Marie shares how the organization seeks to raise awareness and educate the church about the need for foster care, the needs of families fostering children, and how to support them.

Engaging Sexuality with Truth and Love - Part 2

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, is part two of our two-part dialogue with Bill Henson, Posture Shift Founder and President, about how the Church can engage the issues of sexuality with truth and love.

Engaging Sexuality with Truth and Love - Part 1

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we’re starting our two-part dialogue with Bill Henson, Posture Shift Founder and President, about how the Church can engage the issues of sexuality with truth and love.

Christian Education

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In this week's episode, guest host Rev. Dr. Michael Bailey talks to Dr. Deborah DeBisschop about the life-changing experiences and benefits of Christian education.

New Tool for Disciple Making

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, we’re talking with Joe Reid, CEO and founder of Exponent Group in Boston, about an exciting new app to help Jesus followers make disciples!

C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard on Justice

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week, Dr. Jahdiel Perez and Rev. Dr. Dave Ripper join us to talk about the biblical imperative to do justice from the perspectives of C.S. Lewis and Dallas Willard, two great voices in the church, but not necessarily known for speaking to the topic of biblical justice.

Evangelism Training from Palau

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're talking to Kevin Palau, President and CEO of Palau Association, about a great new resource that helps us share Jesus.

Work is Worship, with Bishop Larry Ward

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

Bishop Larry Ward joins us to help define what a theology of work means, along with how it relates to being a disciple or forming us to be like Jesus.

Becoming More Like Jesus Through Spiritual Direction, with Barbara Peacock

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0400

In our hectic, overscheduled lives, caring for the soul is imperative. That's we've asked soul care director Dr. Barbara Peacock to share about her book, "Soul Care in African American Practice,'' and her experience in helping people find their spiritual direction while pursuing Christ.

How North Shore Community Baptist Church is Making Disciples, Part 2, with Pastor Bobby Warrenburg

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week we're wrapping up our two part conversation with Bobby Warrenburg, Senior Pastor of North Shore Community Baptist Church, as we explore how his church family makes disciples that don't simply show up for church, then go about their week.

How North Shore Community Baptist Church is Making Disciples, Part 1, with Pastor Bobby Warrenburg

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Bobby Warrenburg, Senior Pastor of North Shore Community Baptist Church in Beverly, MA, joins us in a two-part special to share how he forms disciples (and not just churchgoers), using intentional planning and assessing spiritual transformation.

Integrating Faith into Your Workplace

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week, we're talking to Rick Ferris about how C12 helps marketplace leaders integrate their faith with their businesses.

Loving People of All Abilities

Tue, 13 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week, we’re talking about loving, including, and ministering to those affected by a disability. Liz Babbitt and Hannah Bollacke from Joni & Friends join us to discuss ways to welcome and include people and families impacted by disability.

World Relief's 80th Anniversary, with Patty MacDonald

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 04:00:00 -0500

This week on the Church in Action program, Patty MacDonald joins us to talk about World Relief, the country’s largest Christian relief agency, which is celebrating their 80th anniversary evidencing the love of Jesus by doing work in some of the most critical and toughest areas across the globe.

Making Disciples Through Celebrate Recovery, with Peter Scalzo

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

We're all in need of healing - but how do we heal well as a disciple of Christ? And how do we make disciples through healing?

That's why we've invited Peter Scalzo, author of “Cancer and Peace, My 15 Year Journey,” Celebrate Recovery Ministry Leader for Walnut Hill Community Church, and launcher of new CR programs.

Evangelism and Disciple Making, with Chris Goeppner

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Chris Goeppner, Lead Pastor of Riverbank Church in Vermont, to join us and share their methodology in pursuing both evangelism and disciple making in their congregation, including advice on how you can replicate this in your own church family.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Highlight: Civil Rights Through Rev. Esau Vance’s Life Story

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

For Martin Luther King Jr. day, we’re sharing a highlight episode with Rev. Esau Vance of Mt. Olive Pentecostal Church in Worcester, MA, who grew up in the deep south during the 1950's as a Black man, where he and his family had to navigate the injustice of racism.

Now, as a pastor, he sits down with us to reflect on the impact of racism, and how the Church can lovingly pursue racial reconciliation and healing.

Keeping the Church’s Lights On, with Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald

Mon, 08 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Rev. Dr. Gordon MacDonald joins us to look ahead into 2024, examining how our world's brokenness has impacted the Church and our communities, along with how he believes the Church should respond to effectively serve as God's ambassadors and "keep the lights on."

New Year's Highlight: The Post Pandemic Church, with Charles Galda

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! As we celebrate the start of 2024, we're taking a break from our regular content to share an episode on findings we've uncovered on the Post-Pandemic Church...

President Charles Galda shares research findings from a series of focus groups we conducted, where we asked more than 100 ministry leaders from across New England - representing different ministry types, contexts, races, ethnicities, and more - to identify how God is calling us to change. We’ll unpack those findings and discuss how we can faithfully respond to God’s call!

Christmas Highlight: Foster Care Ministry, with Jonathan Reid

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Merry Christmas! We're taking a break from our regular content to share an old favorite on Foster Care Ministry...

Currently, there are over 425,000 children in the American foster care system, approximately 24,000 of whom live in New England. Join us and Jonathan Reid - Executive Director and Founder of Fostering Hope, based in Providence, RI - as we discuss what it looks like to enter the world of foster care ministry as a church in New England, and how Fostering Hope strives to reunite biological families, support foster care families, and offer loving homes where reunification isn't possible.

Examining The War and Anti-Semitism, with Rabbi Daniel Berman

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Rabbi Daniel Berman of Temple Reyim joins us to kindly share how he, his family, and his community have been impacted by Hamas terrorism and the resulting war.

Rabbi Berman will also detail common misconceptions surrounding these difficult dynamics, and help us better understand the history behind the current conflict in Israel.

How Aletheia Church is Making Disciples, with Pastor Adam Mabry

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Are you looking for methodology to better make disciples in your church?

Then check out this episode on practical disciple making with Adam Mabry, Senior Pastor at Aletheia Church (a multisite Church based in Massachusetts) and author of multiple books, like The Art of Rest!

Churches Responding to Neo-Nazi Recruiting, with Pastor Clark Pfaff

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Pastor Clark Pfaff is the lead pastor at Valley Brook Community Church and is a founder of the Granby Racial Reconciliation. He joins us to share how the Granby Racial Reconciliation addressed a recent racist episode in their community.

Transformation Through Confession, with Suzy Silk

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 08:00:00 -0500

Does the spiritual practice of confession feel nebulous and confusing? Then this episode is for you!

Suzy Silk, current teaching pastor at Church of the City in NYC, walks us through what scripture says on the spiritual habit of confession, and uncovers aspects of this practice that we often misunderstand.

Renovaré: New Resources for Spiritual Growth, with Ted Harro

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Ted Harro, President of Renovaré, joins us to explore innovative work they’re pursuing on spiritual formation to help churches teach their congregants to obey all Jesus commanded!

Vision Partners Helping Churches Make Disciples, with Jarrod Spalding

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

We’re diving deeper into the Church’s primary mission of making disciples with Jarrod Spalding, co-founder of Vision Partners!

Vision Partners helps small churches go where God is leading them in making disciples, doing justice, and fostering unity to share Jesus. They’re specifically strong in helping churches equip their congregants, not just their ministry leaders, to make disciples.

If You Can’t Pray, Listen to This! With Rev. Dr. Arlene Hall

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Do you want to experience God's transformation through prayer?

Then join us for a conversation with Rev. Dr. Arlene Hall! She's an ordained minister in the Church of God, co-founder and Lead Pastor of Deliverance Temple Worship Center in Boston, and author of Secret Place Dwellers.

Her book explores how to make space for God to transform you and draw you deeper into His dwelling place, especially through the practice of prayer.

God in My Everything, with Pastor Ken Shigematsu

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Pastor Ken Shigematsu, senior pastor of Tenth Church in British Columbia, and author of multiple books, including “God in my Everything,” “Survival Guide for the Soul,” and “Now I Become Myself.”

Pastor Shigematsu joins us to explore how our busy schedules affect our walk with God, and how we can form our lives in a way that centers on our faith, not our schedule.

How Groton Bible Chapel is Making Disciples, with Pastor Gary Campbell

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We’re diving deeper into the Church’s primary mission of making disciples with Pastor Gary Campbell, senior pastor of Groton Bible Chapel in Groton, Connecticut.

Pastor Gary recently tried a new discipleship method in his Church using “Bury Your Ordinary,” a resource from Pastor Justin Kendrick, and shares it’s impact, along with how it’s brought him back to the simple answer of how to make disciples - follow the spiritual practices, and let God transform us through them.

Renovaré: Becoming Like Jesus with Ted Harro, Part 2

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Ted Harro, President of Renovaré, joins us to discuss how his nonprofit helps you pursue stronger habits to be a better disciple. During Part 2, Harro specifically discusses resources Renovaré offers to equip you.

Renovaré: Becoming Like Jesus with Ted Harro, Part 1

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Ted Harro, President of Renovaré, joins us to discuss how his nonprofit supports and equips you to be a better disciple. During Part 1, he specifically shares what Renovaré is and how it began.

Building Disciple Making Cultures: “Taster Workshops," with Gina Mueller

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0400

A few episodes ago we discussed 3DMovements, a national ministry that helps churches create disciple making cultures. Now, we've asked Gina Mueller (Director of 3DM) back to talk about a great opportunity for you to experience their process before making a commitment, through "taster" workshops!

To learn more about these workshops, go to 3DMovements.com!

How to "Advance Your Church," with Dr. Tim Ponzani

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

If you want a space where your entire church team can come together and be equipped to make disciples (regardless of your denomination), Advance Conference is the place for you!

Tim Ponzani, Regional President & Executive Minister of Converge Northeast, shares more about this conference coming October 13-14 of 2023, and how we can stay unified in our common goal to make disciples and advance God's Kingdom!

Exponent Group Helping Churches Make Disciples, with Joe Reed

Mon, 18 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We’re diving deeper into the Church’s primary mission of making disciples with Joe Reed, founder of Exponent Group, a national disciple making ministry.

Exponent Group equips churches to make disciples, offering coaching and consultation for spiritual direction, helping you understand your church context along with where your church stands, and how it can grow.

3DM Helping Churches Make Disciples, with Gina Mueller

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We’re diving deeper into the Church’s primary mission of making disciples with our guest Gina Mueller, Director of 3DMovements.

3DMovements is a national ministry that’s making disciples and helping churches make disciples, and has intimate knowledge not only of the spiritual practices that transform us, but how we can shift ministry cultures to better disciple the people in them using these practices.

"Best of" Highlights: Becoming Like Jesus Through Worship, with Becca Mowrey, Part 1

Mon, 04 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0400

During August we’re sharing some of your favorite episodes on the Church in Action program.

This week, we’re sharing the first segment of a popular, two-part series on the spiritual practice of worship with Becca Mowrey, recent Worship Director of Walnut Hill Community Church in Connecticut.

"Best Of" Highlights: Belonging to a Local Church While Being Part of the Church with Ed Gaskin

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

During August we’re sharing some of your favorite episodes on the Church in Action program. This week, we’re resharing an old favorite with guest speaker, Ed Gaskin.

Gaskin is the Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets, and shared his story of exploring a wide variety of churches, exploring different denominations, backgrounds, and culture makeups, that offered him insight into how we can commit to our local church while pursuing unity in the greater New England Church body.

"Best Of" Highlights: The Enduring Allure of CS Lewis with Jahdiel Perez

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

During August we’re sharing some of your favorite episodes on the Church in Action program. This week, we’re resharing one of our most popular episodes, a conversation with Jahdiel Perez of Villanova University on CS Lewis and his masterful writing.

Perez helps us understand why Lewis has impacted so many believers in comparison to other modern Christian writers, and details how we can trace that impact to our modern-day landscape of Christian thought.

"Best Of" Highlights: Becoming Like Jesus Through Rest, with Brittany Feldott

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

During August we’re sharing some of your favorite episodes on the Church in Action program. This week, we’re resharing a conversation on how to become more like Jesus by practicing rest.

Brittany Feldott - Pastoral Associate at Cape Cod Church in Massachusetts - shared her experience in practicing biblical Sabbath and avoiding hurry. This conversation is especially geared towards those of us who struggle to create healthy work boundaries, and helps us better understand God’s true heart for rest.

"Best Of" Highlights: The Post-Pandemic Church with Charles Galda

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 04:00:00 -0400

During August we’re sharing some of your favorite episodes on the Church in Action program. This week, we’re starting off with one of our more popular talks with Vision New England President, Charles Galda, on research from more than 100 New England ministry leaders, who shared what they believe God is exposing in the Church and how we should respond.

How Valley Community Baptist Church is Making Disciples, with Pastor Rob O'Neal

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Creating a church culture of making disciples can feel daunting - that's why we invited Pastor Rob O'Neal, senior pastor of Valley Community Baptist Church in Avon, CT, to share how his church has shifted their culture to focus more on making disciples.

Pastor Rob walks through how and why his church went from striving to pull congregants into programs and creating a specific feeling for Sunday services, to focusing on the making of disciples, even sharing some of the methodology they used to do so.

Leadership Transformations Part 2, with Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia shares how Leadership Transformations helps ministry leaders form godly habits of soul care and rest, letting God disciple them as they disciple others!

Rev. Macchia is the founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Director of the Pierce Center for Disciple Making at Gordon-Conwell, and author of 16 books.

To learn more about Leadership Transformations, click here!

Leadership Transformations Part 1, with Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Steve Macchia shares how and why he began Leadership Transformations - a ministry created to transform leaders - helping them form habits of soul care and rest!

Rev. Macchia is the founder and president of Leadership Transformations, Director of the Pierce Center for Disciple Making at Gordon-Conwell, and author of 16 books.

To learn more about Leadership Transformations, click here!

Owning Your Spiritual Growth with Dr. Tim Ponzani

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Tim Ponzani, Regional President & Executive Minister of Converge Northeast, and a Vision New England Director and Board Member, shares how Converge Northeast is equipping churches to better make disciples, by moving past old methodology (like programs) towards life-giving practices that bring godly transformation!

To learn more about Converge Northeast, click here!

Civil Rights Through Rev. Esau Vance’s Life Story

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Esau Vance, of Mt. Olive Pentecostal Church in Worcester, MA, grew up in the deep south during the 1950's as a Black man, where he and his family had to live with and navigate the injustice of racism.

Now, as a pastor, he sits down with us to reflect on how this injustice has impacted him and those he loves, and how the American Church can lovingly pursue racial reconciliation and healing.

To learn more about Mt. Olive Pentecostal Church, click here!

Becoming Someone Who Trusts Jesus Like Job Part 2, with Pastor Barry Kang

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Pastor Barry Kang, senior pastor of Symphony Church in Boston, shares more of his insight on the spiritual practices, specifically sharing how Western culture and ideology has impacted the American Church, teaching us to turn elsewhere for our spiritual formation.

To learn more about Symphony Church, click here!

Becoming Someone Who Trusts Jesus Like Job Part 1, with Pastor Barry Kang

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Pastor Barry Kang, senior pastor of Symphony Church in Boston, continues our exploration of the spiritual disciplines, specifically when it comes to trusting God (and by extension, our Church family) with our spiritual formation.

To learn more about Symphony Church, click here!

A Woman's Journey With God: Engaging in the Spiritual Disciplines, with Rev. Dr. Moreen Hughes

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Moreen Hughes, Associate Pastor and Minister to Women at Concord Baptist Church in Milton, MA, sits down with us to discuss her recent book, "A Woman's Journey With God: Engaging in the Spiritual Disciplines." We dive into how the spiritual practices have impacted her, and how we can implement these practices in a way that is tailored to our unique needs in our spiritual formation, man or woman.

To learn more about Concord Baptist Church, click here!

Becoming Like Jesus for Pastors and Leaders Part 2, with Heidi and Rich Joy

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 00:00:00 -0400

Heidi and Rich Joy of Breathe Ministries share how ministry leaders can better engage in spiritual practices that create a sustainable foundation for their service, and how elders and church family can better support their ministry leaders!

To learn more about Breathe Ministries, click here!

Becoming Like Jesus for Pastors and Leaders Part 1, with Heidi and Rich Joy

Mon, 29 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Heidi and Rich Joy of Breathe Ministries lead pastoral retreats, providing coaching and spiritual direction for both pastors and pastoral couples, and know what it's like to lead as a pastoral couple themselves!

In this episode, Heidi and Rich share common issues they see pastors and pastoral couples facing, and how ministry leaders can better engage in spiritual practices that create a sustainable foundation for their service.

To learn more about Breathe Ministries, click here!

Ep. 132: Becoming Like Jesus Through Prayer and Fasting, with Dr. Carrie Tibbles

Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Dr. Carrie Tibbles - Harvard professor of Emergency Medicine, and attending physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center - walks us through the mechanical workings of prayer and fasting, sharing how quiet prayer has impacted her spiritual formation in the midst of a busy schedule!

To learn more about the Renovaré Institute, click here.

Ep. 131: Becoming Like Jesus Through Rest, with Brittany Feldott

Mon, 15 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Brittany Feldott - Pastoral Associate at Cape Cod Church in Massachusetts - shares her experience in practicing biblical Sabbath and avoiding hurry. Join us as we discuss everything from God's true heart for rest (especially for the "workaholic") to simple definitions of hurry and Sabbath.

To learn more about Cape Cod Church, click here!

To see the Bible Project video on Sabbath mentioned, click here!

Ep. 130: Becoming Like Jesus Through Work, with Bishop Lawrence Ward

Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Bishop Lawrence Ward is the Senior Pastor of Abundant Life Church in Massachusetts, and serves on the Board of VNE! In this episode, we discuss reframing our view of work to align with scripture, and how we can treat our daily work as a spiritual discipline.

To learn more about Abundant Life Church, click here!

Ep. 129: Becoming Like Jesus Through Silence and Solitude, with Rev. Dr. Bryan Wilkerson

Mon, 01 May 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Bryan Wilkerson of Grace Chapel walks us through how God transforms us through the practice of silence and solitude, re-training us to respond to situations in a godly way.

Learn more about Grace Chapel here!

Ep. 128: Becoming Like Jesus by Reading and Studying Scripture, with Rev. Dr. Barbara Headley, Part 2

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

We continue exploring the spiritual discipline of reading and studying scripture with Rev. Dr. Barbara Headley, Senior Pastor of Zion Community Baptist Church in Massachusetts.

To learn more about Zion Community Baptist Church, click here!

Ep. 127: Becoming Like Jesus by Reading and Studying Scripture, with Rev. Dr. Barbara Headley, Part 1

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. Barbara Headley, Senior Pastor of Zion Community Baptist Church in Massachusetts, shares her insight on the spiritual discipline of reading and studying God's Word in part 1 of this conversation.

To learn more about Zion Community Baptist Church, click here!

Ep. 126: Becoming Like Jesus by Worshipping, with Becca Mowrey, Part 2

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Becca Mowrey, Worship Director of Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, CT, dives deeper into the spiritual discipline of worship and celebration in the second half of our conversation, exploring everything from pushing away consumeristic mentalities to engaging in worship when you're not "feeling it."

To learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church, click here!

Ep. 125: Becoming Like Jesus by Worshipping, with Becca Mowrey, Part 1

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Becca Mowrey, Worship Director of Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, CT, shares how she navigates the discipline of worship (both personally and as a leader), offering advice on approaching worship as intimacy without distraction.

To learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church, click here!

Ep. 124: Becoming Like Jesus by Making Disciples, with Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd, Senior Pastor of Greater Framingham Community Church, shares how the spiritual disciplines form us into healthy disciples, along with why some are neglected, how he personally has approached the disciplines, and practical tips on building these disciplines into our churches without becoming legalistic.

To learn more about Greater Framingham Community Church, click here!

Ep. 123: Becoming Like Jesus Through Submission with Rev. Cindy Cabral

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

What comes to mind when you hear the word “submission”? For most of us, our initial reaction is typically negative. Yet God's word reveres submission and service in His Kingdom.

Rev. Cindy Cabral of The Lively Stones Christian Center addresses the beliefs and actions that have twisted the discipline of submission and service. She takes us back to God’s true intentions for their impact in our lives, an impact that leaves us healthier, and (surprisingly) more liberated.

To learn more about Lively Stones Center, click here!

Ep. 122: The Healing Power of Confession with Bishop Andrew Williams

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0400

Confession isn’t a practice discussed widely in evangelical circles. Yet, James 5 :16 tells us to “confess [our] sins to each other.” So what does that look like?

Bishop Andrew Williams of the Anglican Diocese of New England points us to scripture’s presentation of confession, detailing its power to move us from a place of shame and isolation to healing and loving community.

Want to learn more about the Anglican Diocese of New England? Click here!

Ep. 121: Making Disciples Requires Community, with Pastor Justin Kendrick

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Community may not be the first practice that comes to mind when we think about becoming a disciple, but scripture makes it clear: we NEED community to make disciples.

Pastor Justin Kendrick of Vox Church joins us to talk about why the spiritual discipline of fellowship is vital, and how to nurture authentic community through the lens of his book, “The Sacred Us.”

To order Pastor Kendrick's book, The Sacred Us, click here!

To learn more about Vox Church, click here!

Ep. 120: Scripture Memorization and Meditation, Part 2, with Rev. Dr. Rex Keener

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

In part two of this conversation, Rev. Dr. Rex Keener - founder and Lead Pastor of Grace Fellowship Church outside Troy, NY - shares how we can simply and sustainably pursue the blessings of scripture memorization and meditation, sharing with us how we can address this “hole in the soul of Church” as a collective and individually!

To learn more about Grace Fellowship Church, click here!

Ep. 119: Scripture Memorization and Meditation, Part 1, with Rev. Dr. Rex Keener

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Memorizing scripture can feel burdensome, and some of the stigma surrounding the word “meditation” can make it difficult for us to understand how God calls us, as Christians, to meditate on His word.

Rev. Dr. Rex Keener, founder and Lead Pastor of Grace Fellowship Church, is joining us to share how scripture memorization and meditation has impacted him personally, along with tips to sustainably incorporate scripture memorization into your schedule! Join us and explore how these practices transform our hearts to be like Jesus while training our bodies to react the way our changed hearts want.

To learn more about Grace Fellowship Church, click here!

Ep. 118: Creating Disciples Who Make Disciples, with Dr. Greg Ogden

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Many of our churches are filled with people who depend solely on their pastor to be fed, taking the name “Christian” without truly becoming a disciple and following Christ in their daily rhythms. So how do we move past this culture of passive faith and begin intentionally creating disciples who make more disciples?

Dr. Greg Ogden, leader of the Global Discipleship Initiative and author of more than 6 books (including Transforming Discipleship), shares how to create a culture of self-aware and intentional discipleship over dependency - both individually and in the context of community.

To learn more about The Global Discipleship Initiative (and find resources for making disciples), click here!

Ep. 117: The Spiritual Disciplines: Practical Application and Resources with Pastor Dave Ripper

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 04:00:00 -0500

When you hear the phrase "spiritual disciplines," what comes to mind? Is it a list of unachievable practices? Another set of standards against which you fall short?

We firmly believe God's heart is to give us new life through the spiritual disciplines, to refresh and renew us, to be the sustainer of these habits - not to force us into a place of striving.

That's why we're launching our spiritual disciplines series, so together we can explore the nature, impact, and practical execution of the spiritual disciplines as detailed in the works of Dallas Willard. This week we're finishing our two part series with Pastor Dave Ripper of Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, NH. Join us as we press into God's heart for the spiritual disciplines in the context of our transformation!

To learn more about Dallas Willard Center, click here!

To learn more about Crossway Christian Church, click here!

Ep. 116: The Spiritual Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Us with Pastor Dave Ripper

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 17:00:00 -0500

When you hear the phrase "spiritual disciplines," what comes to mind? Is it a list of unachievable practices? Another set of standards against which you fall short?

We firmly believe God's heart is to give us new life through the spiritual disciplines, to refresh and renew us, to be the sustainer of these habits - not to force us into a place of striving.

That's why we're launching our spiritual disciplines series, so together we can explore the nature, impact, and practical execution of the spiritual disciplines as detailed in the works of Dallas Willard. We're kicking off with a two part series with Pastor Dave Ripper of Crossway Christian Church in Nashua, NH. Join us as we press into God's heart for the spiritual disciplines in the context of our transformation!

To learn more about Dallas Willard Center, click here!

To learn more about Crossway Christian Church, click here!

Ep. 115: Making Disciples Through Habits Part 2 with Charles Galda

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Charles Galda, Vision New England president and Church in Action host, shares more on how we, as believers, can form healthy Christ-followers through spiritual habits.

Join us as we discuss retraining our bodies, minds, and souls to become the kind of people who naturally follow God's commandments!

Click here to learn more!

Ep. 114: Making Disciples Through Habits Part 1 with Charles Galda

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Charles Galda, VNE president and Church in Action host, shares about a research project our team conducted in the New England Church - all focused on our strengths and weaknesses in forming healthy Christ-followers through spiritual habits.

Click here to learn more!

Ep. 113: Exploring the Enduring Allure of C.S. Lewis with Jahdiel Perez

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Few Christians haven't heard of C.S. Lewis and his masterful writing - but why? Why has Lewis - among many other talented Christian authors - impacted so many believers in comparison? And what kind of impact has he left behind?

Today Jahdiel Perez walks us through some of the reasons why Lewis has proved so influential, even over his own life! Jahdiel is a professor at Villanova University, and is completing his Doctorate in Philosophy at Oxford, where he was president of the C.S. Lewis Society.

To learn more about Jahdiel's work, click here!

Ep. 112: Best-Of Episode, The Role of Listening in Mental Health, with Rev. Liz Walker

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 04:00:00 -0500

Happy New Year! As our team takes a break for the holidays, we're sharing a few of our best episodes of the past year, including this episode with Rev. Liz Walker!

Mental health was already a crisis before the pandemic - but now, many churches and ministries find themselves inundated with church family members in desperate need of support for their mental health.

In this episode we talk with Rev. Liz Walker, now retired senior pastor of Roxbury Presbyterian Church in Boston, MA, where she founded the Corey Johnson Program and Can We Talk. Rev. Liz has successfully instituted and sustained Can We Talk, a "community-designed and driven program that promotes healing from trauma" through conversation.

Learn more about Can We Talk here!

Ep. 111: Best-Of Episode, Discipling Our Children in Patience and Humility with Pastor Johana Perez

Mon, 26 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Merry Christmas! As our team takes a break for the holidays, we're sharing a few of our best episodes of the past year, including this episode with Pastor Johana Perez!

It’s an honor to disciple our own children, but that doesn’t mean training them up in the way they should go is stress-free.

That’s why we’re thrilled to have Johana Perez! She's the pastor of Family Ministries at Harvest Ministries of New England, and Director of Leadership and Educational Programs of Copahni. She's an exemplary practitioner in family ministries and has incredible insight on humbly, patiently discipling your children. Her wisdom and the scripture she shares bring grace and clarity to the process of growing your children into disciples.

Learn more about Harvest Ministries of New England here!
Learn more about COPAHNI here!
Contact Pastor Johana at johana@harvestne.org

Ep. 110: How Believers Can Unify to Better Our Communities with Jua Robinson

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Do you ache to see your local church unify and bless your community? That's what Boston Flourish Day aimed for this past month, successfully gathering people from different backgrounds, races, denominations, and cultures to help those around them flourish - even in the face of issues like addiction and poverty.

Jua Robinson, Planning Team Leader for Boston Flourish and Executive Director at Boston Collaborative, joins us to share about Boston Flourish (Movement Day), and how you can replicate it in your own city.

To learn more about Boston Flourish, click here!

To learn more about Boston Collaborative, click here!

Ep. 109: Recognizing God's Call to Evangelize and Renewing Our Response, Part 2, with Mark Mittelberg

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Sharing Jesus with others can be an intimidating endeavor - as we're called to evangelize, it can be difficult to understand how to strengthen our own talents in sharing the gospel.

That's why we've invited bestselling author and speaker, Mark Mittelberg to share his experience in exercising and fortifying our unique strengths in sharing our faith. Mark is the Executive Director of The Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University.

Join us for part 2 as Mark shares more evangelistic styles and resources for growing in our ability to share Christ!

To learn more about Mark's book, Contagious Faith, click here!

To learn more about the Lee Strobel Center, click here!

Ep. 108: Recognizing God's Call to Evangelize and Renewing Our Response, Part 1, with Mark Mittelberg

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In the next six months, 61% of American believers will not have shared Jesus with anyone in their life (according to Lifeway Research).

God has clearly called us to evangelize - unfortunately, the American Church is falling short. That's why we've invited bestselling author and speaker, Mark Mittelberg to share his experience in exercising and fortifying our unique strengths in sharing our faith. Mark is the Executive Director of The Lee Strobel Center for Evangelism and Applied Apologetics at Colorado Christian University.

In this episode, Mark shares the evangelistic "types" he sees displayed uniquely in believers, helping us better understand our strengths and weaknesses in sharing Jesus. Tune in to part 2 for how the Church as a whole can better respond to our evangelistic calling!

To learn more about Mark's book, Contagious Faith, click here!

To learn more about the Lee Strobel Center, click here!

"Minisode": Pastor Adam DePasquale and Equipping Executive Pastors in New England

Tue, 29 Nov 2022 17:00:00 -0500

In this mini interview from Life Changing Radio, Pastor Adam DePasquale of Walnut Hill Community Church shares a bit about how Vision New England gathers Executive Pastors (like himself) together, so they can build friendships, support one another, and share best practices for their specific roles in New England. In this interview, Pastor Adam specifically shares a bit about our most recent Executive Pastor's gathering with best-selling author Gordon MacDonald!

Learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church here!

Learn more about Life Changing Radio here!

Ep. 107: How Resettling Refugees Opened Doors to Evangelism in NH with Kasey and Wes Dillon

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Many of us want to grow in our evangelism as church families, but oftentimes we don't connect growing in evangelism to doing justice. We know doing justice is a clear command, but what exactly happens to our collective witness when we sincerely pursue justice as a Church body? Especially in our post-Covid, cancel-culture context?

For Kasey and Wes Dillon (co-founders of Four Rivers Church in Durham, NH), they've seen God compound their church's choice to resettle an Afghan family (fully without government funding), and use it to prompt local ministries (Christian and secular alike) to partner together, all while opening their surrounding community to hear more about Christ!

To learn more about Four Rivers Project, click here!

To learn more about Four Rivers Church, click here!

To read more about the resettlement of this family, click here!

Ep. 106: Combatting Human Trafficking While Supporting Survivors with Mary Speta

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

The US is one of the top three destinations for human trafficking victims (Castla) - at least 100,000 of these victims are American children being exploited for pornography or prostitution every year (Share Hope International). New England isn't unfamiliar with human trafficking either - Massachusetts alone reported 106 cases in 2019 (Human Trafficking Hotline).

Statistics like this can leave us feeling as if we're fighting some immovable stronghold, however Mary Speta, Executive Director of Amirah Inc., proves there are actionable steps we can take to dismantle this degrading and horrifying industry, by clarifying how we, as the New England church, can fight human trafficking and support survivors.

Mary shares many facets of trafficking in this episode, including how many women are unjustly coerced into the sex “trade,” identifying techniques used by traffickers, discussing legislative policies that hurt more than help, and detailing how the Church has contributed to the problem (and how we can better respond).

To learn more about Amirah Inc., click here!

Ep. 105: Belonging to a Local Church While Being Part of the Church with Ed Gaskin

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Many of us belong to one local church - yet, Christ calls us to belong to one unified Church body. What does this balance look like practically? How do we commit to our own chosen church family while serving Christ's whole Bride, the greater Church?

Ed Gaskin (Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets) has some insight on those very questions! While trying to find his new local church community, Ed has spent a few months visiting a variety of churches from different denominations, backgrounds, and cultural makeups. He shares how we currently operate as local church members who belong to the greater Church body, and how we can better pursue unity as one New England Church that worships and fellowships in local regions as we all serve our One God!

To learn more about Greater Grove Hall Main Streets, click here!

Ep. 104: What is THRIVE? with Rev. Rob O'Neal

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 04:00:00 -0500

If you've been around Vision New England for a while, you've probably heard about THRIVE, a conference where we partner with local churches! THRIVE is a space where Christians can gather new ideas on how to nurture their community and Church family, while collaborating with and being inspired by passionate people, joining fellow believers for worship, hearing keynote speakers, and participating in breakout sessions focused on addressing challenges specific to their specific region!

Rev. Rob O'Neal, Senior Pastor of Valley Community Baptist Church in Avon, CT, shares how our 2022 THRIVE Farmington Valley conference put God-sized, regionally specific problems in front of his local church while equipping and encouraging them to build God-sized solutions, blessing his church family and community!

Learn more about THRIVE Farmington Valley here!

Learn more about Valley Community Baptist Church here!

Ep. 103: Political Discussions On Our Use of Energy, Student Loans, and Political Candidates, with Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Rev. Enoch Liao

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As the election season of 2022 draws closer, we're reminded of the fractures running through our communities- fractures so deep that our nation has been pressed to the point of riot, has nurtured a thriving"cancel culture," and has left neighbor staunchly set against neighbor. Unfortunately, those same fractures run through the Church, despite our call to unity.

In pursuit of that unity (even in politics), we've asked Rev. Enoch Liao of Boston Chinese Evangelical Church and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond of Bethel AME Church onto our podcast, to model what it looks like to lovingly share opinions with fellow Christians and choose to uphold our unity in Christ over differing views on applying scripture to modern issues. Join us as we explore what unity and love look like in political conversations, specifically on America's use of energy, student loans, and political candidates.

Learn more about Boston Chinese Evangelical Church here!

Learn more about Bethel AME Church here!

Ep. 102: Political Discussions on Inflation and Our Use of Energy, with Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Rev. Enoch Liao

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As the election season of 2022 draws closer, we're reminded of the fractures running through our communities- fractures so deep that our nation has been pressed to the point of riot, has nurtured a thriving"cancel culture," and has left neighbor staunchly set against neighbor. Unfortunately, those same fractures run through the Church, despite our call to unity.

In pursuit of that unity (even in politics), we've asked Rev. Enoch Liao of Boston Chinese Evangelical Church and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond of Bethel AME Church onto our podcast, to model what it looks like to lovingly share opinions with fellow Christians and choose to uphold our unity in Christ over differing views on applying scripture to modern issues. Join us as we explore what unity and love look like in political conversations, specifically on navigating inflation and America's use of energy.

Learn more about Boston Chinese Evangelical Church here!

Learn more about Bethel AME Church here!

Ep. 101: Building Tangible, Biblical Community Using Technology with Dr. James Emery White

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Technology has become increasingly intertwined with our churches, especially with the changes in our routine prompted by Covid. Now that Covid has nearly passed and we find many church members gone, what place does technology have in our churches? Should we continue to grow our technological presence and skillsets? Or should we forego technological growth in favor of fully focusing on in-person experiences?

That's why we've invited Pastor James Emery White, the founding and senior pastor of Mecklenburg Community Church in Charlotte NC (a church with a thriving online presence), host of ChurchandCulture.org, and author of more than 20 books. In this episode, Pastor James shares his opinion on how churches should navigate the presence of technology in their services and routines.

Learn more about Mecklenburg Community Church here!

Learn more about Church and Culture here!

Ep. 100: Political Discussions on Abortion, Mar-a-Lago, and Inflation, with Rev. Enoch Liao and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As the election season of 2022 draws closer, we're reminded of the fractures running through our communities- fractures so deep that our nation has been pressed to the point of riot, has nurtured a thriving"cancel culture," and has left neighbor staunchly set against neighbor. Unfortunately, those same fractures run through the Church, despite our call to unity.

In pursuit of that unity (even in politics), we've asked Rev. Enoch Liao of Boston Chinese Evangelical Church and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond of Bethel AME Church onto our podcast, to model what it looks like to lovingly share opinions with fellow Christians and choose to uphold our unity in Christ over differing views on applying scripture to modern issues. Join us as we explore what unity and love look like in political conversations, specifically on navigating the issue of abortion, Mar-a-Lago, and inflation.

Learn more about Boston Chinese Evangelical Church here!

Learn more about Bethel AME Church here!

Ep. 99: Political Discussions, Voting as a Christian & Abortion, with Rev. Enoch Liao and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As the election season of 2022 draws closer, we're reminded of the fractures running through our communities- fractures so deep that our nation has been pressed to the point of riot, has nurtured a thriving"cancel culture," and has left neighbor staunchly set against neighbor. Unfortunately, those same fractures run through the Church, despite our call to unity.

In pursuit of that unity (even in politics), we've asked Rev. Enoch Liao of Boston Chinese Evangelical Church and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond of Bethel AME Church onto our podcast, to model what it looks like to lovingly share opinions with fellow Christians and choose to uphold our unity in Christ over differing views on applying scripture to modern issues. Join us as we explore what unity and love look like in political conversations, in this episode, specifically in conversations about voting as a Christian and navigating the issue of abortion.

Learn more about Boston Chinese Evangelical Church here!

Learn more about Bethel AME Church here!

Ep. 98: Pursuing Christian Unity in Political Disagreement with Rev. Dr. Paul Hoffman

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Political division runs just as deeply inside as it does outside the Church. The word "evangelical" - which originally meant gospel - now speaks more to a political identity than our identity in Christ. In this moment of history, pursuing unity in the Church is difficult, but fully worthwhile and attainable as a consistent habit. Rev. Dr. Paul Hoffman of Evangelical Friends Church of Newport shares steps we can take towards strong, sincerely loving relationships with our church family.

Purchase your own copy of "Preaching to a Divided Nation" here!

To learn more about the Evangelical Friends Church of Newport, click here!

Ep. 97 "Best of" Highlight: Tim Keller & The Gospel-Centered Church, Part 1: Evangelism

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

This week we're sharing from our "Best of" series! This is the first of a series of three messages from Tim Keller, when he spoke at Vision New England's 125th anniversary celebration in 2013!

His message is timeless, and is as relevant today as it was in 2013. He talks about the Gospel-Centered church in evangelism, disciple-making, and mission. Today's message is focused on creating an evangelistic dynamic in your whole church and how to communicate the gospel in a post-post Christian society!

"Minisode": Interview with Life Changing Radio and VNE President Charles Galda on THRIVE Farmington Valley

Sat, 17 Sep 2022 12:00:00 -0400

Join us as our partners at Life Changing Radio interview President Charles Galda on our first THRIVE event in Farmington Valley, CT!

Ep. 96: Division in the Church and the Road to Biblical Unity with Pastor Dave Swaim

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Fracture lines run through our nation, dividing people by class, background, political views, gender, race - these same fractures, this same hurtful division, runs through the Church.

In this episode, Pastor Dave Swaim of Highrock Covenant Church in Arlington, MA unpacks the state of today's Church and the division we're experiencing, then walks us through actionable, scriptural steps towards a unified Church body. Join us!

Learn more about Highrock Covenant Church here!

Ep. 95: Creating Evangelistic Church Cultures with Pastor Chris Goeppner

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Approximately 80% of Christians won't share their faith this year, according to a recent study done by Barna Group. In the face of statistics like these, how do we respond? How do we share our personal faith and encourage our church family to do the same?

Pastor Chris Goeppner, Lead Pastor of Riverbank Church and evangelist at heart, details how he's nurtured evangelistic habits in his church family, even in the face of discomfort and an often intimidating "cancel culture." You'll also hear tips on how to share Jesus effectively in a New England context, as Pastor Chris shares what he's learned about evangelism during his time here.

Learn more about Riverbank Church here!

Ep. 94 "Best Of" Highlights: The Post-Pandemic Church with Charles Galda

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we inch closer to our 100th episode, we've been celebrating by sharing past episodes you've liked best! This week, we're taking a break from our most popular episodes and sharing one we feel encapsulates what the vast majority of New England leaders have been sharing with us. Read below to learn more!

Have you felt God is exposing things in the Church He wants to change? We have. We've been in conversations with New England leaders who have gotten the same sense through all the pain and disruption of the last two years.

So we surveyed and focus grouped more than 100 diverse leaders across New England to identify what God is exposing, and what the implications are for us. We landed on ten key “statements” that relate to the core mission of the Church. As the prophets of old called God’s people back to faithfulness, we believe God is calling His people to be more faithful in making disciples, doing justice, fostering unity, and sharing Jesus. Join us as we unpack this calling with Vision New England president, Charles Galda!

Ep. 93 "Best Of" Highlight: Biblical Narrative and Young Adult Disciple-Making with Brittany Feldott

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we inch closer to sharing our 100th episode, we wanted to celebrate by sharing our past episodes you've liked best! This week, we're sharing our past episode with Brittany Feldott. Read below to learn more!

Only 10% of Christian twentysomethings have a resilient faith, according to a study done by Barna Group in 2019.

That's why we value the wisdom of successful practitioners like Pastoral Associate Brittany Feldott of Cape Cod Church, who has helped spearhead an innovative young adult disciple-making structure in her church. Join us as Brittany shares how her church has interwoven biblical narrative and displays of God's character to draw young adults closer to Christ!

Learn more about Cape Cod Church here!

Ep. 92 "Best Of" Highlight: Every Christian a Disciple-Maker with Dr. Mateus de Campos

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we inch closer to sharing our 100th episode, we wanted to celebrate by sharing our past episodes you've liked best! This week, we're sharing our old episode with Dr. Mateus de Campos, read below to learn more!

Every Christian is called to make disciples, but sometimes the New England church seems to either trust only a handful of people to make disciples, or reduces disciple-making to programs. That's why we've asked Dr. Mateus de Campos, Dean of Hamilton Campus and Director of Formation and Leadership Development of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, onto our podcast!

Dr. Mateus will walk us through the theology and practical living-out of our personal and collective calling as God's people to make disciples, and what it looks like to call each member of the church into the identity of "disciple-maker."

Learn more about Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary here!

Ep. 91 "Best Of" Highlight: Compassionate, Truly Transformative Discipleship with Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As we inch closer to sharing our 100th episode, we wanted to celebrate by sharing our past episodes you've liked best! This week, we're sharing our conversation with Rev. Dr. Lloyd - read below to learn more!

"And Jesus said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

The above verse isn't always an easy one to follow - that's why we've asked Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd onto today's podcast! Join us as Rev. Dr. Lloyd - pastor of Greater Framingham Community Church in MA, and Adjunct Professor at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary - leads us in an examination of what it looks like to daily disadvantage ourselves in the biblical process of discipleship.

Ep. 90: "Best Of" Highlight: Intentional, Practical Disciple-Making with Gordon MacDonald, Part 1

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 00:00:00 -0400

As we inch closer to sharing our 100th episode, we wanted to celebrate by sharing our past episodes you've liked best!

Our conversation with Gordon MacDonald - author of more than 12 books, a man who has successfully led almost every kind of ministry - was split into a two-part discussion on unleashing the potential in your church family, by creating disciples through biblical, purpose-filled community. To listen to part two, (Ep. 61) check out our earlier episodes!

Ep. 89: The Post-Pandemic Church with Charles Galda

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Have you felt God is exposing things in the Church He wants to change? We have. We've been in conversations with New England leaders who have gotten the same sense through all the pain and disruption of the last two years.

So we surveyed and focus grouped more than 100 diverse leaders across New England to identify what God is exposing, and what the implications are for us. We landed on ten key “statements” that relate to the core mission of the Church. As the prophets of old called God’s people back to faithfulness, we believe God is calling His people to be more faithful in making disciples, doing justice, fostering unity, and sharing Jesus. Join us as we unpack this calling with Vision New England president, Charles Galda!

Ep. 88: Caring for Refugees with Patty MacDonald

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Patty MacDonald - Northeast Director of Strategic Partnerships at World Relief - has a conversation with us about the intense challenges refugees must navigate in different contexts and cultures, and how World Relief is rallying volunteers and working with local organizations to care for them.

Learn more about World Relief here!

Ep. 87: Compassionate Prison Re-Entry with Ed Gaskin

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Within five years of their prison release, 79% of returning citizens are re-arrested (according to the State Criminal Justice Policy and Planning Division). That's why we're sitting down with Ed Gaskin, Executive Director of Greater Grove Hall Main Streets, to discuss a research project Ed is involved in that helps us understand how to support returning citizens in giving them a clean start after fulfilling their punishment. This support helps prevent their needs from compounding and pushing them to return to a life of crime.

Learn more about Greater Grove Hall Main Streets here!

Ep. 86: Shelter for Homeless Women with Rev. Shannon Mumblo

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Rev. Shannon Mumblo walks us through the ministry she leads as Executive Director of Christina's House, creating and guarding spaces for women to heal, find peace, and learn how to lead a healthy life. Rev. Shannon will also share how she's seen this ministry break down silos between non-profits, churches, and organizations, offering us a glimpse of unified servanthood as we pursue justice. Join us!

Learn more about Christina's House here!

Ep. 85: Fighting Human Trafficking in New England with Annmarie Boulay

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In the past year almost 300 calls have been made to report a potential case of a child being trafficked (or being vulnerable to trafficking) in New England. Annmarie Boulay, Executive Director of The Underground, joins us to share what form this injustice takes here in our New England home, what her organization does to take up arms against it, and how we can partner in their fight to support survivors and end trafficking.

Learn more about The Underground here!

Ep. 84: Justice in Education with Bob Niedermeier

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, we're joined by Bob Niedermeier, one of the founders and Executive Director of Urban Impact, an organization based in Bridgeport, CT devoted to offer youth educational opportunities through ‘in-school’ & ‘after-school’ activities. These include everything from one-on-one and small group tutoring, and give volunteers an opportunity to invest in these kids and share Jesus.

Learn more about Urban Impact here!

Ep. 83: Healing from Abuse with Frank Vitale

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

On today's episode we're joined by Frank Vitale, Executive Director of His Mansion ministries, a Christian residential recovery community in Deering, NH. Frank will share with us what it looks like to "restore broken lives through the hope of Jesus Christ" as they walk through addiction recovery.

Learn more about His Mansion here!

Ep. 82: Feeding Hungry Children with Rev. David Johnson

Mon, 06 Jun 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In this episode, Rev. David Johnson of Grace Church of East Dennis, co-founder of Cape Kid Meals (who works to address food insecurity on Cape Cod) discusses what it looks like to share Jesus by addressing the needs of those within our community, setting aside our preconceptions of how well those around us are living, choosing instead to keep our eyes open to unexpected needs, and how we can fill them with the love and provision of Christ.

Learn more about Cape Kid Meals here!

Ep. 81: Inclusive Church Cultures for People Living with Disability, with Joni Eareckson Tada

Mon, 30 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

As Joni Eareckson Tada (CEO of Joni & Friends) points out in this episode, church families aren't whole without their brothers and sisters living with disability. That said, churches often believe they don't have the budget to create an inclusive environment for those living with disability, or are unsure of where to begin creating a church culture of inclusion. Join us as we discuss how to create that loving, godly culture, and make a place at the table for our entire church family.

Learn more about Joni & Friends New England here!

Ep. 80: Foster Care Ministry with Jonathan Reid

Mon, 23 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Currently, there are over 425,000 children in the American foster care system, approximately 24,000 of whom live in New England. Join us and Jonathan Reid - Executive Director and Founder of Fostering Hope, based in Providence, RI - as we discuss what it looks like to enter the world of foster care ministry as a church in New England, and how Fostering Hope strives to reunite biological families, support foster care families, and offer loving homes where reunification isn't possible.

Learn more about Fostering Hope here!

Contact Jonathan Reid via email at jonathan@fosteringhope.org!

Ep. 79: Compassionate Mental Health Ministry with Lucy Houghton

Mon, 16 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Creating a loving, godly culture surrounding mental health ministry can be overwhelming to navigate, especially with the overwhelming number of people in need. Join us and Lucy Houghton, Director of Care Ministries at Walnut Hill Community Church in Bethel, CT, as we explore the impact of Saddleback Church's program, Hope for Mental Health, on her church community!

Contact Lucy Houghton at lhoughton@walnuthillcc.org!

Learn more about Saddleback Church's program, Hope for Mental Health, here!

Learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church here!

Ep. 78: The Role of Listening in Mental Health with Rev. Liz Walker

Mon, 09 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Mental health was already a crisis before the pandemic - but now, many churches and ministries find themselves inundated with church family members in desperate need of support for their mental health.

In this episode we talk with Rev. Liz Walker, now retired senior pastor of Roxbury Presbyterian Church in Boston, MA, where she founded the Corey Johnson Program and Can We Talk. Rev. Liz has successfully instituted and sustained Can We Talk, a "community-designed and driven program that promotes healing from trauma" through conversation.

Learn more about Can We Talk here!

Ep. 77: Hallmarks of a Godly Mental Health Ministry with Pastor Enoch Liao

Mon, 02 May 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Now more than ever, we find ourselves struggling with mental health - thankfully, we have well-informed, God-honoring resources we can turn to! Join us and Pastor Enoch Liao, pastor of Boston Chinese Evangelical Church, and Board Chair of Boston Center for Biblical Counseling, as we explore the indicators of a well-formed, godly mental health ministry, and how Christians have historically interacted with and viewed mental health and counseling.

Learn more about the Boston Center for Biblical Counseling here!

Ep. 76: Counseling that Honors Christ with Pastor Bobby Warrenburg

Mon, 25 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Mental health needs have intensified both inside and outside the Church, putting pastors and counselors under strain as they care for hurting congregations. What if there's a more biblical, sustainable way to support the mental health of our church families?

That's what we discuss in this episode with Pastor Bobby Warrenburg, Senior Pastor of North Shore Community Baptist Church, founder of the North Shore Gospel Partnership, and Director of Vision New England. Join us as Pastor Bobby examines the calling of every Christian to support the mental health of their brothers and sisters in Christ!

Learn more about North Shore Community Baptist Church here!

Learn more about North Shore Gospel Partnership here!

Ep. 75: Guarding the Mental Health of Pastors with Sean Bowen

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 00:00:00 -0400

The pandemic took a toll on the mental health of pastors nationwide. So much so, that in the year of 2021, 38% of pastors seriously considered leaving ministry (Barna Group). That's why we're proud to partner with people like Sean Bowen, Executive Director of Barnabas Ministries, which serves more than 1,000 pastors globally through John 17:23 groups. Join us as Sean shares how pastors can effectively, practically guard their mental health while serving their church families, and how church families can support their pastors' mental health.

Learn more about John 17:23 Groups here!

Ep. 74: Unity and Disciple-Makers with Rev. Samuel Rodriguez

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

Our fractured nation can make unity seem like a distant hope. But as followers of Christ, we're not only called, but equipped to stand unified as a Church family. Join us and Rev. Samuel Rodriguez - President of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, advisor to former presidents Bush, Obama, and Trump, and pastor of New Season Church. Rev. Samuel will share his experience on the practice of unity as a disciple of Christ, and the role unity plays in making disciples who do justice and share Jesus.

Learn more about Rev. Samuel Rodriguez here!

Learn more about New Season Church here!

Learn more about the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference here!

Ep. 73: Disciple-Making and Justice Part 2 with Pastor James Roberson III

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In part 2 of this conversation, Pastor James Roberson III of Bridge Church NYC shares his experience on what it looks like to pursue justice as a disciple of Christ, specifically in racial reconciliation. Listen in to hear about spaces where the Church can pursue justice in a way that honors both God and His children.

Learn more about Bridge Church NYC here.

Ep. 72: Disciple-Making and Justice Part 1 with Pastor James Roberson III

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0400

In part 1 of this conversation, Pastor James Roberson III of Bridge Church NYC shares his wisdom on how to discern the differences between transformative disciple-making and behavior modification as a church leader. Pastor James' considerable experience in disciple-making with millennials and people with very little margin in their lives offers us a strong, biblical lens through which to see which disciples in our church family are mature and ready to take on more roles in our congregation.

Learn more about Bridge Church NYC here.

Ep. 71: Keeping Ourselves Accountable as Disciple-Makers with Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

We can be our own worst enemy as we strive to become disciple-makers, unintentionally clinging to habits and mindsets that get in our way. Join us and Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond of Bethel AME Church of Boston, as we discuss unlearning those habits and mindsets, instead letting God fully transform every part of us and make us more effective disciple-makers.

Learn more about Bethel A.M.E. Church here!

Ep. 70: Every Christian a Disciple-Maker with Dr. Mateus de Campos

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:00:00 -0400

Every Christian is called to make disciples, but sometimes the New England church seems to either trust only a handful of people to make disciples, or reduces disciple-making to programs. That's why we've asked Dr. Mateus de Campos, Dean of Hamilton Campus and Director of Formation and Leadership Development of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, onto our podcast!

Dr. Mateus will walk us through the theology and practical living-out of our personal and collective calling as God's people to make disciples, and what it looks like to call each member of the church into the identity of "disciple-maker."

Learn more about Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary here!

Ep. 69: Biblical Narrative and Young Adult Disciple-Making with Brittany Feldott

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Only 10% of Christian twentysomethings have a resilient faith, according to a study done by Barna Group in 2019.

That's why we value the wisdom of successful practitioners like Pastoral Associate Brittany Feldott of Cape Cod Church, who has helped spearhead an innovative young adult disciple-making structure in her church. Join us as Brittany shares how her church has interwoven biblical narrative and displays of God's character to draw young adults closer to Christ!

Learn more about Cape Cod Church here!

Ep. 68: Bringing Community Back into Disciple-Making with Pastor Ed Pichette

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we discuss the necessity of biblical church community, and the role of healthy, committed church family dynamics in disciple-making, with Pastor Ed Pichette of Graceway Community Church in RI. Pastor Ed will specifically discuss how his church has seen their house-church model make stronger disciples of their congregants.

Learn more about Grace Community Church here.

Ep. 67: Making Disciples Like Jesus Did with Gina Mueller

Mon, 21 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Gina Mueller - Director of 3dMovements North America - brings us back to Jesus' model for disciple-making. Her expertise in disciple-making, both on small and large scales, is a wonderful resource for aligning our priorities to God's instead of our own church-culture precedence, as we strive to make disciples who do justice and love Jesus.

Learn more about 3DMovements here!

Ep. 66: "On the Other Side of Yes" with Rev. Dr. Brian Mowrey

Mon, 14 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Rev. Dr. Brian Mowrey, one of the lead pastors of Walnut Hill Community Church in CT, shares more detail about his book on discipleship, “On the Other Side of Yes.” Join us as we dig in and learn more about following the way of Jesus in our day-to-day lives!

Find Rev. Dr. Mowrey’s book, “On the Other Side of Yes,” here.

Learn more about Walnut Hill Community Church here.

Ep. 65: Moving from Programs to Genuine, Whole-Life Discipleship with Pastor Justin Kendrick

Mon, 07 Feb 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Often the American church views discipleship as something accomplished through programs. In this episode, Pastor Justin Kendrick of Vox Church takes us beyond discipleship programs to explore the biblical methodology of making disciples by inviting people into your life and relationship with Christ through the lens of his book, “Bury Your Ordinary: Practical Habits of a Heart Fully Alive.”

Find Justin's book, "Bury Your Ordinary: Practical Habits of a Heart Fully Alive," here on Amazon.

Learn more about Vox Church here!

Ep. 64: Discipling Our Children in Patience and Humility with Pastor Johana Perez

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

It’s an honor to disciple our own children, but that doesn’t mean training them up in the way they should go is stress-free.

That’s why we’re thrilled to have Johana Perez! She's the pastor of Family Ministries at Harvest Ministries of New England, and Director of Leadership and Educational Programs of Copahni. She's an exemplary practitioner in family ministries and has incredible insight on humbly, patiently discipling your children. Her wisdom and the scripture she shares bring grace and clarity to the process of growing your children into disciples.

Learn more about Harvest Ministries of New England here!
Learn more about COPAHNI here!
Contact Pastor Johana at johana@harvestne.org

Ep. 63: Compassionate, Truly Transformative Discipleship with Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

"And Jesus said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me." Luke 9:23

The above verse isn't always an easy one to follow - that's why we've asked Rev. Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd onto today's podcast! Join us as Rev. Dr. Lloyd - pastor of Greater Framingham Community Church in MA, and Adjunct Professor at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary - leads us in an examination of what it looks like to daily disadvantage ourselves in the biblical process of discipleship.

Ep. 62: Standing with and Discipling the Next Generation with Kyler Barr

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

During 2019, 64% of young adults attending a church chose to leave (according to a study done by the Barna Group).

In the face of statistics like these, Kyler Barr (once the NextGen pastor of Walnut Hill Community Church, now ministry consultant) offers insight on young adults who choose to stay involved in church, detailing how we can stand alongside and support them in their faith as they navigate an increasingly counter-Christian culture.

Ep. 61: Intentional, Practical Disciple-Making with Gordon MacDonald, Part 2

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 04:00:00 -0500

Want to grow transformed disciples who advance God's kingdom? Join us for part 2 of our conversation with Gordon MacDonald - a leading church thinker and successful practitioner - as he shares the model he implemented to identify disciples and unleash their God-given potential through biblical community!

Find Gordon's book on disciple-making here!

Ep. 60: Intentional, Practical Disciple-Making with Gordon MacDonald, Part 1

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 12:00:00 -0500

Gordon MacDonald - author of more than 12 books, a man who has successfully led almost every kind of ministry - leads us in a two-part discussion on unleashing the potential in your church family, by creating disciples through biblical, purpose-filled community. Join us for part one, and stay tuned for part two!

Ep. 59: Honoring Christ Through Our Health, with Heidi and Brianna Joy

Thu, 30 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Heidi Joy interviews her daughter-in-law, Brianna Joy on cultivating an unhurried heart like Christs’ as we protect our health. Listen in as we examine what it looks like to guard our rest and make fitness an act of worship!

Find more information on Revelation Wellness here, or find Brianna Joy’s Blog here!

Ep. 58: Building Persistence in Prayer and Unity, with Pastor Enoch Liao and Pastor Steven Chin

Thu, 16 Dec 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Pastor Enoch Liao and Pastor Steven Chin have a conversation about guiding your church family into sustainable habits that create unity and a vibrant collective prayer life - all while guarding your own time with God!

Ep. 57: Identifying and Navigating Trauma's Impact with Rev. Dana Baker

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 12:00:00 -0500

Rev. Dana Baker - Director of the Boston Trauma Healing Collaborative - equips churches in greater Boston to bring Christ-centered healing to those deeply wounded by trauma. Listen in as she shares how trauma impacts our minds and bodies, and her experiences in healing from trauma as a Christian.

Contact Dana at dana@bostoncollaborative.org to learn more about the Boston Trauma Healing Collaborative, and find free trauma healing resources here!

Ep 56: Discipling the Next Generation with Bjorn Anderson

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 15:00:00 -0500

Join us as we sit down with Bjorn Anderson, Associate Regional Director of Young Life's Greater Northeast Region, as we discuss what it looks like to disciple the next generation with love and intentionality. If you want to learn more about Young Life or work with one of their groups, go to YoungLife.org!

Ep 55: Growing Deep-Rooted, Biblically Literate Disciples with Bruce Boria

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Join us as Rev. Dr. Bruce Boria - Senior Pastor of Bethany Church in NH - shares his experience on confidently growing disciples who make disciples. Bruce fills this Church in Action episode with biblical insight and encouragement as we patiently wait for our disciples to bear fruit. We pray you leave this episode with renewed passion for discipleship!

Ep. 54: Pressing into Evangelism with Kevin Palau

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 14:00:00 -0500

Kevin Palau, President of the Luis Palau Association, shares practical advice and wisdom for creating a church-culture of outreach.

Ep. 52: The Landscape of Christian Education with Mike Runey

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 20:00:00 -0500

Every wondered if Christian school is right for your family? Hear from Mike Runey, Head of School at Portsmouth Christian Academy, as he gives a picture of Christian education for PreK - Grade 12.

Ep. 53: What is Disciple-Making? With Enoch Liao

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 20:00:00 -0500

What is disciple-making? How did Jesus make disciples? Is it as complicated and time consuming as we think? Hear from Enoch Liao, pastor at Boston Chinese Evangelical Church, as he discusses discipleship ideas and practices.

Ep 50: What it Means to Be Church

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Hear from Gavin and Anne Calver about what it means to be church in this season, in this episode of The Church in Action Podcast hosted by Pastor Victoria Kowarick of Walnut Hill Community Church. Gavin Calver is CEO of Evangelical Alliance. He is an ordained evangelist, a regular public speaker, and author. Anne Calver is a Baptist minister, speaker and author. Both are coauthors of the recent book, Unleashed: The Acts Church Today.

Ep 51: The Strength of Latino Christians in Evangelism

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Join us for a conversation with Sergio Perez, Pastor of Harvest Ministries of New England, about the unique joys and challenges of the Latino Church.

Ep 49: A Conversation with a Pastor's Wife, Akiba Watts and Heidi Joy

Sat, 02 Oct 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Hear from Akiba Watts of Cornerstone Christian Center in Milford, CT, as she shares about her experience in ministry as a pastor's wife as she's interviewed by Heidi Joy of Breath Ministries.

Ep 48: A Conversation on Gathering Together with Enoch Liao

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 21:00:00 -0400

Do we have a weak theology around gathering? Is church online the same as church in person? What's the actual goal of meeting together? Hear from Pastor Enoch Liao on what God is trying to teach His Church in this season.

Ep 47: Spotlight on Evangelism: Rev. Cindy Cabral

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Join us for a conversation with Rev. Cindy Cabral as she shares her thoughts and experience on evangelism as the Pastor of Lively Stones Christian Center in Brockton, MA.

Ep 46: Justice: Domestic Abuse and Support for Healing

Thu, 09 Sep 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Join us for a conversation with Joyce Shelter Holt, Executive Director of Hagar's Sisters. In the US, nearly 20 people are abused every minute. Domestic abuse knows no boundaries and is prevalent regardless of race, education, socioeconomic status, or religion. Many are surprised to find abuse in families of faith. However, researchers affirm that abuse crosses all religious boundaries and that the rates inside and outside the church are similar. Hagar’s Sisters is a non-profit organization that offers holistic services for individuals who have experienced the life-shattering effect of domestic abuse so that they may find healing and a new healthy way of life that is free from abuse.

Ep 45: Discipleship in the Context of Cru with Pat and Tammy McLeod

Fri, 03 Sep 2021 10:00:00 -0400

Pat and Tammy McLeod, directors of Cru in partnership with Park Street Church in Boston, talk about discipleship in the context of their college ministry to the 250,000+ students in the Boston area. The McLeod's often speak, teach, and write on spiritual formation, prayer, and ambiguous loss and are founding members of the Mamelodi Initiative in the township of Mamelodi, South Africa—a project that connects Harvard students with AIDS orphans and other at-risk youth in a mentoring and educational program to prepare them for college.

Ep 44: Tim Keller & The Gospel-Centered Church: Part 3: Mission

Tue, 24 Aug 2021 13:00:00 -0400

Tim Keller shares about mission in part three of a series on "The Gospel-Centered Church."

Ep 43: Tim Keller & The Gospel-Centered Church: Part 2: Disciple-Making

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 21:00:00 -0400

Tim Keller shares about the importance of disciple-making in part two of a series on "The Gospel-Centered Church."

Ep 42: Tim Keller & The Gospel-Centered Church: Part 1: Evangelism

Thu, 12 Aug 2021 11:00:00 -0400

In our August "Best of" series, we'll be sharing a series of three messages from Tim Keller, speaking at Vision New England's 125th anniversary celebration in 2013. His message is timeless, and is as relevant today as it was in 2013. He talks about the Gospel-Centered church in evangelism, disciple-making, and mission. Today's message is focused on creating an evangelistic dynamic in your whole church and how to communicate the gospel in a post-post Christian society.

Ep 41: Depression After COVID-19 with Dr. James Manganello

Thu, 05 Aug 2021 21:00:00 -0400

In light of the unique challenges the pandemic poses, this talk will explore various types of depression, its causes and possible treatments, Dr. Manganello will explain how recovery is possible and why we can still hope for the future.

Dr. Manganello has more than 40 years of experience providing psychological therapy to multigenerational/multicultural families and individuals. He studied at Boston University and Harvard University and was both clinical psychology intern and clinical and research fellow in the Department of Psychiatry, Harvard Medical School/Massachusetts General Hospital.

Ep 40: A Life in Christian Ministry: A Wife's Perspective

Thu, 29 Jul 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Guest host Heidi Joy from Breathe Ministries interviews Ruth Calver to discuss a wife's perspective of life in Christian ministry on this week's podcast.

Ep 39: Spotlight on Polarizing Issues: Asian Racism and Violence

Thu, 22 Jul 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Join us for a conversation with Enoch Lio, pastor at Boston Chinese Evangelical Church, as he discusses racism, violence and the Asian community.

Ep 38: Spotlight on Evangelism with Kika Ghobrial

Thu, 15 Jul 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Pastor Kika Ghobrial shares how people are using social media to share Jesus in what is being called the “online revival.” Kika Ghobrial is the Youth and Young Adults pastor at Arabic Evangelical Baptist Church of Boston and pastor of their English speaking service.

Ep 37: Terminology of Race Part III

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 16:00:00 -0400

Dr. Emmett Price will continue our multi-part series on the evolving language of race and some of the challenges it presents.

Ep 36: Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 13:00:00 -0400

We're talking to Mary Speta of Amirah New England which ministers to survivors of human trafficking and provides training and education related to sexual abuse, harassment and exploitation.

Ep 35: Free Speech and the Cancel Culture

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 14:00:00 -0400

We talk with the Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond (Bethel AME) and Pastor Enoch Liao (Boston Chinese Evangelical Church) about the right of free speech, the cancel culture, and how the gospel should inform our thinking on both.

Ep 34: Spotlight on Evangelism with Bobby Warrenburg

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 12:00:00 -0400

Today we talk to Bobby Warrenburg, Sr. Pastor of North Shore Community Baptist Church and founder of the North Shore Gospel Partnership, about evangelism and what he's seeing God do.

Ep 33: Hit Hard: Resiliency Through Ambiguous Loss

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Over a decade ago, Pat and Tammy McLeod's son suffered a traumatic brain injury and became severely disabled for life. They've had to grieve much, but have also experienced God's nearness in their suffering. In this week's podcast, we'll talk with them about their journey through ambiguous loss, and their book Hit Hard.

Ep 32: Faith and Work

Thu, 03 Jun 2021 13:00:00 -0400

How does God think about work (meaning, our jobs) and how can that inform how we approach our work as Christ-followers? In today's podcast, we talk with Brandon Cobb, Executive Pastor of Renaissance Church in New York City, about how he equips people to integrate faith and work.

Ep 31: Spotlight on Polarizing Issues: Police Shootings

Thu, 27 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

This week we talk about police shootings and race, both the data and emotions on all sides of the issue, to increase our understanding of how others see it, so we can be the peacemakers we are called to be, and work toward unity in the Church, which is evangelistic (John 17:21).

Ep 30: Spotlight on Evangelism with Sergio Perez

Thu, 20 May 2021 11:00:00 -0400

Rev. Sergio Perez joins us this week for an encouraging conversation about how he's seen God working in his own life, and in his ministry and evangelism around New England. Sergio is the Senior Pastor at Harvest Ministries, and a board member of Vision New England.

Ep 29: Sexual Harassment in the Church

Thu, 13 May 2021 12:00:00 -0400

This week we talk with Rev. Bonnie Gatchell about her life and ministry to women who have been exploited by the sex industry, and the research she's done on sexual harassment in the church.

Ep 27: The Abundant Life of a Pastor’s Wife: Rev. Dr. Virginia Ward

Thu, 29 Apr 2021 14:00:00 -0400

Join us for this raw, insightful and inspiring talk with Rev. Dr. Virginia Ward, as she talks about the joys and challenges of following God's call in her life - as a daughter, mom, pastor's wife, author, speaker and leader. Important life lessons for women and men, and especially for pastors' wives.

Ep 26: Spotlight on Polarizing Issues - The Georgia Voting Reform

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 19:00:00 -0400

We're excited to have Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Pastor Enoch Liao back on the podcast, this time to talk about Georgia’s voting reform legislation. Part of our goal is to show how Christians can talk about polarizing issues with love and kindness, and learn from each other’s perspectives.

Ep 25: Spotlight on Evangelism with Clive Calver

Wed, 21 Apr 2021 08:00:00 -0400

This week Clive Calver shares his journey from unbeliever to leading the largest evangelical alliance in the world, his experience working in more than 100 countries doing disaster relief work and pastoring Walnut Hill Community Church in SW Connecticut.

Ep 24: The Evolving Language of Race, part 2

Thu, 08 Apr 2021 17:00:00 -0400

We're excited to have Dr. Emmett Price back this week to continue shedding light on the evolving language of race: some of the new terms, and ones whose meanings have been changing, with the goal of clearing up confusion and avoiding potential barriers to reconciliation.

Ep 23: Successful Disciple-Making: What Does It Look Like?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 12:00:00 -0400

We’re excited to have Justin Kendrick, Lead Pastor of Vox Church (multiple sites in CT and MA), join us for this strategic and practical conversation on how to make disciples. Vox has an intentional approach that will help us think about disciple-making in our own contexts.

Ep 22: Spotlight on Polarizing Issues - Immigration

Thu, 25 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0400

We’re excited to have Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Pastor Enoch Liao joining us for the podcast again today! They're back to discuss immigration from a biblical perspective, modeling disagreement with love, and breaking down polarization by showing that most issues are more complicated than “I’m good and you’re bad.”

Ep 21: Spotlight on Evangelism - Greater Framingham Community Church

Thu, 18 Mar 2021 15:00:00 -0400

We're excited to welcome Dr. J. Anthony Lloyd to the podcast, to talk about how he sees God working in Greater Framingham. Dr. Lloyd is an adjunct professor at Gordon-Conwell’s CUME Center in Boston, and the Senior Pastor of Greater Framingham Community Church.

Ep 20: The Evolving Language of Race

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 13:00:00 -0500

We're excited to welcome Dr. Emmett Price back to the podcast to shed some light on the evolving language of race: some of the new terms, and ones whose meanings have been changing, with the goal of clearing up confusion and avoiding potential barriers to reconciliation.

Ep 19: Cultivating Deep People

Thu, 04 Mar 2021 12:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode, Gordon MacDonald talks about how a Christian leader's top priority is to assure the continuous training and growth of his/her people.

Ep 18: Spotlight on Polarizing Issues - Minimum Wage and Education

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 13:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode, Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Pastor Enoch Liao have a very thoughtful and loving conversation about minimum wage and education. They approach the topics from a biblical perspective, modeling disagreement with love, and breaking down polarization by showing that most issues are more complicated than “I’m good and you’re bad.”

Ep 17: Spotlight on Evangelism - A Conversation With Ben Feldott

Wed, 17 Feb 2021 11:00:00 -0500

Ben Feldott, Senior Pastor at Cape Cod Church, joined us for a personal and insightful conversation about his life, growing through seasons of change, evangelism and how he's been seeing God work on the Cape.

Ep 16: Helping People Impacted by Disability Find Hope and Dignity

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 14:00:00 -0500

In this week's episode, we talk with Liz Babbitt, Ministry Relations Manager for Joni and Friends New England and John Dischinger, Pastor of Outreach for Walnut Hill Community Church, about the amazing opportunities that churches have to share the hope of the Gospel and give practical help to people impacted by disability.

Ep 15: Restorative Justice: The Church’s Role in Addressing Human Trafficking

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 13:00:00 -0500

Human trafficking is happening in every New England state. In this episode we talk with Annmarie Boulay and Theresa Leonard, co-founders of the The Underground: Lighting A Way To Freedom about what human trafficking is, and how the church can take a meaningful role in addressing it.

Ep 14: Honest Conversations with Pastors' Wives

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 18:00:00 -0500

Life as a Pastor's wife is unique, complex, and challenging! In this episode, we'll get an inside look as two pastors' wives share their personal journeys. Heidi Joy hosts this conversation with Sonya Bailey from The First Cathedral and Chrisy Kendrick from Vox Church.

Ep 13: The Revival is on Hold

Fri, 22 Jan 2021 08:00:00 -0500

God is doing so much in New England, at a level we haven't seen in a long time. However, it may be that God is holding back from bringing revival and awakening in the region because of toxic political partisanship that is dividing the church? In this week's episode, Charles Galda, president of Vision New England, does a “fireside chat" to talk about how the recent insurrection on the US Capitol brought toxic partisanship to the forefront and how we move beyond it to the unity Jesus intends.

Ep 12: Owning and Addressing Toxicity in our Culture

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 19:00:00 -0500

Unthinkable recent events have stirred a new desperation that God would heal our nation, reverse the toxicity that’s been growing for years, show us where we may need to repent if we’ve contributed to it, and tell us what His Church, churches, and individual believers can do to reduce the toxicity, be beacons of light, hope and love, and bring reconciliation in His Church and in our country. In this episode, we talk about this with Rev. Dr. Ray Hammond and Rev. Dr. Bryan Wilkerson, and then pray, led by many New England leaders.

Ep 11: Trauma Ministry Opportunities for Churches During Covid

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 12:00:00 -0500

In this episode, two leaders from Walnut Hill Community Church in CT share their trauma learnings and ministry from their work in Sandy Hook and how they are building on it to minister to people suffering trauma from Covid and other issues, and how it’s evangelistic.

Ep 10 - Christmas: What Our Churches Do To Share Jesus

Thu, 17 Dec 2020 13:00:00 -0500

In this episode, we talk with Bishop Larry Ward and Pastor Chris Goeppner about their favorite Christmas traditions, and how their churches think about sharing Jesus during the Christmas season...especially with all the challenges and opportunities Covid is presenting this year.

Ep 9: Recognizing and Navigating Trauma

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 12:00:00 -0500

Trauma has been a growing problem and 2020 has contributed significantly. In this episode, we have a timely conversation with Dr. Karen Mason, Professor of Counseling and Psychology at Gordon-Conwell, who will help us understand trauma and its impacts, and how our faith in Christ can help us be a source of blessing to others, allowing us to share the love of Jesus.

Ep 8: Spotlights: How We're Seeing God Move in New England

Thu, 19 Nov 2020 12:00:00 -0500

Even in such a challenging time, God is doing great things to build His Kingdom in New England! In this special Thanksgiving episode, Brittany Feldott talks with Stephanie Clark from Amirah, Inc and Rev. Clyde D. Talley from Worcester about how they're seeing God work in their ministries.

Ep 7: The U.S. Constitution and Evangelism

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 14:00:00 -0500

In our continuing dialog to help us answer our call to be peacemakers, we need to understand the context and tension when it comes to race. This episode is a follow up to Ep 5, where we talked about the genius and challenges of the Declaration of Independence, and how our understanding of it impacts evangelism. Here, we do the same with the U.S. Constitution.

Ep 6: On The Other Side of YES

Thu, 29 Oct 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Imagine if Mary said, "Find another surrogate." What if the little boy with bread and fish said, "These are mine," and refused to give them up? God moved powerfully on the other side of their YES, and we know them as world changers today. In this episode, we talk with Brian Mowrey about his powerful new book, On The Other Side of YES.

Ep 5: How Does Our Understanding of The Declaration of Independence Impact Evangelism?

Fri, 16 Oct 2020 10:00:00 -0400

In our continuing dialog to help us answer our call to be peacemakers, we need to understand the context and tension when it comes to race. In this episode we talk about the genius of the Declaration, what believers can celebrate, and some of the challenges.

Ep 4: Is Secular Polarization Infiltrating the Church and Hindering Evangelism?

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 15:00:00 -0400

With tension rising all around us, especially during election season, many churches and families are experiencing conflicts and division. The Colossian Forum is a ministry that helps your Christian community navigate the minefield of issues that are all around us, with a framework that offers worship, lessons and practices to reduce the tension and conflict so that our witness can be more effective.

The Colossian Forum website is https://colossianforum.org/

Ep 3: Did Uncle Tom's Cabin Start the Civil War?

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 13:00:00 -0400

Pastors Kenneth Young and Chris Goeppner join us to talk about Uncle Tom's Cabin, and how it gives us context for being effective today. Stowe's eye-opening descriptions help us better understand our call to be peacemakers, which can in turn open doors for evangelism.
Rev. Kenneth Young is the Pastor of Calvary Baptist Church in Haverhill, MA.
Chris Goeppner is the Lead Pastor of Riverbank Church in White River Junction, VT.

Ep 2: COVID-19 and Marketplace Leadership

Fri, 25 Sep 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Britt Harris talks with us about how COVID-19 is impacting the global economy and how marketplace believers can lead in times of crisis.

Britt Harris manages America's largest public endowment ($50 Billion), is an Advisor to the New York and Dallas Federal Reserves, and a member of the White House Working Group for Financial Markets.

Ep 1: What is Justice in God's Eyes, and What Does That Mean For Us?

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 12:00:00 -0400

Dr. Emmett G. Price III from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary talks with us about what the Bible says about justice … what it is and isn’t, what our obligations are as believers, and what justice looks like today.