Shows
Stories Along the JourneyWaging Peace for Newbies Enjoy this conversation with peacemaker Diana Oestreich. Diana is a lovely person with a powerful story who is a soldier turned activist fro peace. She talks with Lory Beth and Joel Simpson about how her life changed because of the courage of an Iraqi muslim woman who offered her hospitality. Listen to us wrestle with the importance, necessity and even the biblical mandate to act for social justice like Jesus did. Link to Diana's Website: https://www.dianaoestreich.com2024-02-2252 minStories Along the JourneyPioneering Ministry From the Seat of a Minority Voice In honor of Black History month we recorded a podcast on Martin Luther King, Jr. day with my colleague, the Rev. Dr. Sam Moore and his wife Marva Moore. Listen to this story of pioneering ministry, wisdom from the seat of the minority voice at the table, and faithfulness that is inspiring. Please turn your sound up, we apologize this was a first time using a hand held recorder on location and we didn't realize that Sam's Mic was off. Lory Beth's voice is louder than Sam, but we promise it is worth the glitches!2024-02-0651 minStories Along the JourneyHistorical Truth, White Supremacy, a Curious Mind We talk once again with Greg Huffman, Conference Chancellor for WNCC (and husband of Lory Beth) about a topic he has researched and written about through the years and is appropriate as we turn our attention towards Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday. Growing up visiting Civil and Revolutionary War Battlegrounds prepared him to recognize the misinformation and propaganda used to rewrite history through the years. Hear his thoughts about why it matters that the public understand the historical push to reframe history in order to recognize what is happening today. Greg reflects on how this has influenced our...2024-01-1141 minStories Along the JourneyChristmas Stories and Happy Gloria Moments Our third Christmas Podcast! This year we bring you a few more of our holiday stories from the past and took a moment to reflect on some of our favorite memories with Gloria as she enters into retirement. We hope you enjoy this podcast and laugh as much as we did! Merry Christmas and Happy New Years from us to you!2023-12-2132 minStories Along the JourneyA Denominational Perspective from our Conference Chancellor Today we have a conversation with Greg Huffman the Conference Chancellor for WNCC (and husband of Lory Beth) about his view on the past year of disaffilaiton and what led up to this threshold moment. Greg helped process over 300 churches leaving the WNCC and represented the Bishop and the Conference in a precedent setting lawsuit. He shares his take on how we got here and how he navigated the past year. 2023-12-0738 minStories Along the JourneyIn Memory of Dr. Ken Peacock- Reposting his episode We decided to air an episode we aired back in July 2023 of Dr. Peacock after we found out he unexpectedly passed. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers. We had the gift of sitting with Dr. Ken Peacock, former Chancellor of Appalachian State University, as he shared his faith story. Ken shared the people, early on in life that influenced his faith and how his eyes were opened to sacred value of each person. If you haven’t heard the story of 100 children, you will want to hear this. It is a beautiful story and one that h...2023-10-1935 minStories Along the JourneyFinding The Best of Others and Creation Gloria Hughes and her husband, Chris had a conversation around the Dinning Room table about life with Chris’ brother, Bill Hughes. Billy shared the people in his life that helped him see the good in others that eventually shaped his own care for others. Thank you for joining us in this conversation and allowing me to share a glimpse into the heart of our brother, Billy.2023-08-2423 minStories Along the JourneyMy Faith Journey Continues to Evolve Gloria Hughes and her husband Chris sit down with Chris’ sister Dr. Sylvia Rockwell and discuss how her faith journey continues to evolve. Excellent time together. 2023-08-1029 minStories Along the JourneyCelebrating 92 years of Life with Mable HarringtonGloria had the opportunity to sit down with Mable Harrington on her 92nd birthday. Her story is as precious as Mable is and our hope that you enjoy listening to a few of her stories along her journey. They are priceless. Pictured: Mable's Grandsons Patrick and Kevin with Mable in the middle 2023-07-2725 minStories Along the JourneySharing the Journey with Dr. Ken Peacock We had the gift of sitting with Dr. Ken Peacock, former Chancellor of Appalachian State University, as he shared his faith story. Ken shared the people, early on in life that influenced his faith and how his eyes were opened to sacred value of each person. If you haven’t heard the story of 100 children, you will want to hear this. It is a beautiful story and one that he carries throughout his life. 2023-07-1334 min
Means of GraceLooking Beyond and Reclaiming an Inclusive, Evangelical ChurchWhat if there were a movement of leadership within the church that was able to look past all of the hardships and challenges of today? What if leaders came together to champion a new day filled with energy, purpose, and hope. Jesse Enniss and Kim Ingram talk with WNCC clergy leaders and church pastors Brian Elwell, Mandy Jones, Karen Easter-Bayne, John Henry, Jr., and Mark Conforti about ways the church is changing and how ministry and leaders can adapt and respond differently. They reflect based on their recent experience learning together at the BEYOND Conference. Matt Miofsky pastor...2023-06-2739 minStories Along the JourneyAnnual Conference 2023 Recap Gloria, Katie, and Lory Beth sit down and recap their connections and experiences at Annual Conference 2023 at Lake Junaluska that just happened June 15, 2023-June 18, 2023. It was a wonderful time of Grace, Connection, and Holiness! 2023-06-2227 minStories Along the JourneyThe UMC'S Presence at MerleFestGloria, Katie and Lory Beth sit down and reflect on their time together at MerleFest. For those of you who don't know what MerleFest is, it is a 4 day long bluegrass festival created by Doc Watson that is held yearly on the grounds of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, NC. This year we decided to sponsor a booth, we called it The People of the United Methodist Church booth. You just have to listen to hear about all the amazing stories that happened over those 4 days, and WOW... they are heartwarming stories! 2023-05-1136 minMeans of GraceLighthouse Congregations: Creating Space for Healing and HopeDirector of Church Development, Rev. Rob Hutchinson, speaks with several pastors of Lighthouse Congregations. Together, they explore what it means to be a Lighthouse Congregation, how these families of faith are creating space for healing and hope for the individuals who find themselves without a church home after painful disaffiliation votes, and how this care-first initiative is providing opportunities to be the hands and feet of Jesus for our fellow United Methodists. Learn more about Lighthouse Congregations in the WNCC: https://www.wnccumc.org/lighthouse-congregations https://www.umnews.org/en/news/lighthouse-congregations-offer-hope-amid-schism https://baptistnews.com/article/lighthouse-congregations-guide-individuals-who-want-to-stay-umc/2023-05-0241 minStories Along the Journey*Re-release*- Faith and Creativity Re-release Gloria Hughes and Lory Beth Huffman had an engaging conversation with singer, songwriter, recording artist, and storyteller, Abbye West Pates. Abbye shared how her passion for making music connect with the listener has led her to growth in her musical gifting. She shared how she is still learning how to take the songs of old and make them relevant for people today. She is a master at her craft and we are excited to introduce to you this artist from Memphis TN if she isn’t already on your radar. Website: Abbye We...2023-04-2734 min
Metro District Sights & SoundsMental Health and How Churches can RespondA conversation with Becky Yates and Rev. Paul Craig from Matthews United Methodist Church, on how they are responding to mental health in the church through the ministry of "For Minds and Hearts." Take a listen to how they are equipping communities through education, resources and developing mental health toolboxes in the local church context. May is Mental Health Awareness month. On May 7, 2023 Matthews UMC is presenting "Depression: Out of the Darkness and Into the Light" featuring Dr. Daniel Hale, psychologist at Johns Hopkins in Baltimore, MD. Dr. Hale will share personal and professional insights...2023-04-2140 minStories Along the JourneyWhat We Wish Adults Understood About Being an Adolescent Gloria Hughes and Kim Burns, a teacher at Caldwell Early College High School, were joined by Elizabeth Sherwood and Nolan Wallace to discuss some of the challenges adolescents are currently facing. This authentic and engaging conversation is one everyone should hear. 1) They discuss present day challenges adolescents face 2) They share a deep desire for quality time with adults 3) They also talk about expectations to get it right the first time and how much this triggers anxiety and mental health issues, not to mention stress. It was an excellent conversation...2023-04-1336 minStories Along the JourneyHow to Have Hard Conversations with Guest Speaker, Brett Loftis Gloria and Lory Beth were blessed to have Brett Loftis in the podcast studio recently. If you don’t know Brett, he is the CEO of Crossnore Communities for Children and a co-founder of Trauma Resilient Communities. His passion and work to help others experience authentic care and compassion is life-giving. You won’t want to miss this episode. If you would like to know more about Crossnore Communities for Children, follow the link: Crossnore Communities for Children | Foster Care | Clinical Services2023-03-2332 minMeans of GraceChurch is Changing, Part 1This week, Rob Hutchinson, WNCC Director of Church Development, speaks with Guilford College UMC's Student Associate Minister, Andres Perez Gonzalez. Together, they discuss the ways church is changing in 2023 and how we can grow our "holy intuition" so that we may become better attuned to the ways God is already at work in our communities and join in the mission!2023-03-2132 minStories Along the JourneyBishop Ken Carter Shares His Faith Journey Gloria and Lory Beth had an engaging conversation with Bishop Ken Carter around the people in his life that were his first spiritual mentors, helping him to catch the faith. We also asked him his why. It was a fun and engaging conversation.2023-03-0931 minStories Along the JourneyExperiencing God’s Love Gloria and Lory Beth had a beautiful conversation with Mike Ragan, a faithful member and leader of FaithBridge UMC. In our time together, Mike shares his story of why he left the church and how he found his way back in the arms of a loving congregation. His love for God is undeniable.2023-02-2335 minStories Along the JourneySeeing the World With New Eyes Gloria sat down with Ian Julsrud a junior in High School, shares how a mission trip experience opened his eyes to see things very differently. This eye opening experience has begun to ignite an awareness of many of the other countless injustices happening in our world. His pastor at First UMC in Taylorsville, NC, Joel Simpson joins in the conversation and together their story is fun and inspiring. FUMC Taylorsville, NC2023-02-0929 minStories Along the JourneyThoughts Around Belonging and Inclusion Gloria, Lory Beth, and Katie shared their experiences of belonging and being included. Some great insights came out of this conversation and hope it gets the wheels rolling in your head as well. As always, blessings along your journey.2023-01-2629 minStories Along the JourneyInfluencing the Faith of Others Season 2 opener! Gloria and Lory Beth sat down with Joel Simpson, Pastor of First UMC in Taylorsville, to talk about the ways his faith was and continues to be influenced by others.2023-01-1233 minStories Along the JourneyChristmas Memories From Us to You! Lory Beth, Katie and Gloria sit around the table and tell their most interesting Christmas memories! Spoiler Alert!! We talk about Santa A LOT! DO NOT LISTEN AROUND CHILDREN. In the Podcast you will hear a story form Gloria who tells about her Santa visit at her house at Christmas. Here is a photo from that day! Also, you will hear about Lory Beth's funny "Dirty Santa" gift exchange. Here is a photo of her mom receiving her gift! 2022-12-2228 minStories Along the JourneyHang Tight-New Podcast Dropping December 22, 2022 Hang tight friends, we are working on a really good podcast to drop for the month of December! Plan to listen to this special Christmas podcast that will drop on December 22, 2022! 2022-12-0802 minMeans of GraceArmenia Project AGAPEIn this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, host Brian Mateer, WNCC Director of Missional Engagement, and Rev. Peter Constantian, a fourth generation Armenian American and UMC pastor in our Conference, share a conversation about their recent trip to Armenia. They discuss their visit with the staff of Project AGAPE and the upcoming 30th anniversary of the partnership between the two North Carolina annual conferences and this special ministry. 2022-12-0630 minStories Along the JourneyGrief, there is no wrong way Lory Beth, Gloria, and Katie talk about the countless ways we deal with grief and some of the cultural differences of grieving. They also discuss how to grieve in ways that honor your loved ones through their death, loss of job, hope, and the church. Join us for this hard yet important topic.2022-11-2336 minStories Along the Journey*Re-release* A Passionate Follower of Jesus*Re-release* This is a podcast that we released in July. Gloria Hughes and Lory Beth Huffman had a conversation with author, activist, and speaker, Shane Claiborne about how he passionately lives out the gospel message of love. His advocacy has led him to spend time with Mother Teresa in Calcutta and founded The Simple Way in Philadelphia. Shane heads up Red Letter Christians which is a movement of folks who are committed to living “as if Jesus meant the things he said.” His passion to end the death penalty and help stop gun violence is prov...2022-11-1041 minStories Along the JourneyWhen a Disaster Happens.... Lory Beth and Gloria sit down with Rev. Ken Anderson and talk disasters. Ken is appointed at Henson Chapel-Mabel charge as well as serving as the Appalachian District Disaster Response Coordinator. Ken has served as a Coordinator for other districts as well as the conference Coordinator. Ken brings years of knowledge and skills to this podcast as he talks about how to get involved and when. If you are feeling called to help please check out these resources: www.wnccumc.org/disaster-response www.wnccumc.org/mission-response-center www.wnccumc.org/disaster-ministries ww...2022-10-2734 minStories Along the JourneyA Singer, Songwriters Journey Gloria Hughes and Lory Beth Huffman sat down with singer, songwriter, worship leader, and recording artist, Kyle Sigmon to discuss how his faith has affected his music and equally how his music is shaping his faith. Kyle also shares about writing his first song and how that process is transforming his faith. Check out Kyle Sigmon website and follow him on Spotify or any platform you get your music. 2022-10-1332 minMeans of GraceDoing Church in Reverse with Rev. Rob ParsonsWhat could it mean for our congregations, for our communities, if we flipped the script on how we “do church”? In this week’s episode Rev. Rob Parsons, pastor of Saluda UMC and a new church start called WithALL, shares how these two congregations are doing just that. He describes their ministry style as “church in reverse,” and for them, their ministry does not start in the sanctuary, or a food pantry, or a Facebook page – it starts in courtrooms. Learn more about WithALL at www.bewithall.org. Are you interested in thinking through how your church c...2022-10-1123 minStories Along the JourneyFaith and the Arts Rev. Dr. Anne Conover shares her journey of connecting to a longing and passion for creativity. She shares with us that it has not been a journey of confidence and one that most people would not expect. Her own self criticism became louder than the voices encouraging her until a defining moment when she knew she was, in fact, called to create. Anne Conover can be reached through her website Anne Conover - About the Artist (anneconoverfineart.com) or on Facebook.2022-09-2231 minStories Along the JourneyFaith and Creativity Gloria Hughes and Lory Beth Huffman had an engaging conversation with singer, songwriter, recording artist, and storyteller, Abbye West Pates. Abbye shared how her passion for making music connect with the listener has led her to growth in her musical gifting. She shared how she is still learning how to take the songs of old and make them relevant for people today. She is a master at her craft and we are excited to introduce to you this artist from Memphis TN if she isn’t already on your radar. Website: Abbye West Pat...2022-09-0833 minStories Along the JourneyYouth Activism in Action Lory Beth Huffman and Gloria Hughes spoke with Lora Henley, about how she stood up for what she believed I and put her faith into action, organizing a March for Our Lives event in June of 2022. Inspired by the most recent events at Uvalde High School, Lora’s ability to organize peers, politicians, and others is inspirational.2022-08-2526 minStories Along the JourneyChallenging our Idols of Today In our Part 3 of A Part 4 Series on difficult conversations we talk with Rev. Dr. Chris Hughes about his book American Idols: Gods of the Region: An Open Letter to My Christian Kin about how easily we can start worshipping a variety of idols in our lives that aren’t our trinitarian God. How do we as Christians prevent losing our Christian identity and voices in this complicated world we live in. No one is immune from idolatry, so let’s reflect on how our faith journey is strengthened or weakened by pushing back against cultural norms. ...2022-08-1133 minStories Along the JourneyA Passionate Follower of Jesus Gloria Hughes and Lory Beth Huffman had a conversation with author, activist, and speaker, Shane Claiborne about how he passionately lives out the gospel message of love. His advocacy has led him to spend time with Mother Teresa in Calcutta and founded The Simple Way in Philadelphia. Shane heads up Red Letter Christians which is a movement of folks who are committed to living “as if Jesus meant the things he said.” His passion to end the death penalty and help stop gun violence is providing a platform for the healing of the families who have lost a lo...2022-07-2840 minStories Along the JourneyHaving A Prophetic Voice Lory Beth Huffman and Gloria Hughes had a conversation with Rev. Dr. Elizabeth Coppedge-Henley about the challenges of being a Prophetic Voice in this day and time – especially from the pulpit. Elizabeth shares how she has built trust with her congregation, allowing her to tackle hard issues facing the world right now.2022-07-1432 minStories Along the JourneyTools in our Toolbox Gloria Hughes, Lory Beth Huffman sat down with Ted Henry to discuss how his life’s journey has equipped and prepared him for ministry. Ted serves as the pastor of Banner Elk UMC, as well as the chaplain of Lees McRae College and the campus minister of the Wesley Foundation at the college. During our conversation, Ted made reference to John Pavlovich’s book: If God is Love, Don’t Be a Jerk: Finding a Faith that Makes Us Better Humans and Gloria quoted Henri Nouwen from his book, The Wounded Healer. Ted spoke a...2022-06-2328 minStories Along the JourneyA Positive Influence in My LifeGloria Hughes sat down with Laura Byrch, Pastor of Community Engagement & Pastor of Blackburn’s Chapel in Todd NC. Laura shares with us the people in her life that influenced her awareness of other and how that has transformed her life and ministry. Laura’s spirit is contagious and fun. We hope you enjoy her story and ponder who those persons are in your own life. 2022-06-0928 min
Stories Along the JourneyCatching the FaithLory Beth, Gloria and Katie sat down and shared with one another the people in their lives who have helped them "Catch the Faith" using the dreamcatcher as a metaphor. We hope these stories inspire you to think about the people in your life who have helped you "Catch the Faith".2022-05-2629 min
Stories Along the JourneyA Story of Connection: Intergenerational Partners That Bring Hope to a CommunityToday we hear a story from Rev. Kirsty Burnette and Beth Talley from Friendship UMC in Iredell County that reminds us how churches in rural areas can use their assets and giftedness to make a Kingdom difference for the children in their community. And how participating in serving the Kingdom, is an act of personal discipleship along the way. 2022-04-2129 minStories Along the JourneyFinding Joy in the Midst of a Global Pandemic Gloria Hughes, Appalachian District Vitality Associate sat down with Anita Sain, pastor of Jefferson UMC along with Ashley Church and Sophia Kiser to hear their story of how their entire congregation got caught up in the movement of the Holy Spirit to host a prom for Ashe County High School, in the midst of Covid-19. Their story is exciting, inspirational, and filled with holy outcomes! We hope this conversation blesses you as much as it blessed us.2022-03-2424 minStories Along the JourneyKingdom Opportunities in Your MidstLory Beth Huffman, Appalachian District Superintendent, Gloria Hughes, Appalachian District Vitality Associate sit down with Rev. Joseph Kesserling who is appointed at Nathan's Creek United Methodist Church and is from India. He is able to see Kingdom opportunites all around him and apply what he learned in India to his pastoral leadership of Nathan's Creek and with the community of Crumpler. 2022-02-2430 minMetro District Sights & SoundsThe Church and Mental Health of YouthA conversation on Mental Health and the youth of our communities, with three pastors in the Metro District. Listen to their stories as they sound the Clarion Call to listen, hear, learn, from our youth and equip leaders and parents to support.2022-02-2136 minStories Along the JourneyPassionate Authentic Connections with OthersGloria Hughes sat down with Ben Gatton, one of the pastors at Sparta United Methodist Church and Hope Fellowship, along with Elizabeth Barricklow, a member of Hope Fellowship, to discuss their faith journeys and what drives their passion to connect to the community, especially those who have been disconnected with the church.2022-01-2529 minStories Along the JourneyBeginning the Podcast Journey: Advent StoriesLory Beth, Gloria, and Katie share their most memorable Advent and Christmas memories and how they have played an important role in shaping their lives and faith. #storiesalongthejourney A special thank you to Chris Hughes for Music (I Will Follow Jesus), and Kyle Sigmon for voiceover and teaching us podcast editing skills! Email address storiesalongthejourney@wnccumc.org Website: appalachiandistrict.org 2021-12-0823 minMetro District Sights & SoundsA Conversation with Farah St. JeanHost Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand speaks to Farah St. Jean, a Haitian-American who is an executive and community organizer supporting our Haitian neighbors and families who are refuges, living in American communities, and awaiting their Asylum hearings.2021-11-1825 minMetro District Sights & SoundsDr. Malkin EugeneWe continue our conversation with leaders in the Metro District who have long standing partnerships with leaders on the ground in Haiti, who are presently mobilizing assistance to potential Haitians seeking Asylum in the United State, along with having conversations with Haitian American to gain a greater understanding of the hope and resilience of the Haitian People and how the church can respond. Joining us today is Dr. Maklin Eugene, the founder of New Hope Hospital in Plaine-Du-Nord. Dr. Malkin was born in a rural section of Haiti called Matabonite. After finishing his studies in Northern Haiti, Dr...2021-11-1545 minMetro District Sights & SoundsRev. Dr. Laura Alexander-ElliottA conversation w/ Rev. Dr. Laura Alexander-Elliott, a United Methodist clergy in Western NC Conference of the United Methodist Church. She is presently under appointment by the Bishop in WNCC in extension ministry as the is the Executive Director of Soaring Unlimited Haiti. Ordinary people doing extraordinary work. How the Church is addressing the Haitian Crisis. 2021-11-0434 minMetro District Sights & SoundsA Conversation with Wanda MusgravesExecutive Director for Partners 4 New Hope inc. A life long United Methodist Lay person transforming a lives with our neighbors in Haiti.2021-10-2643 minMetro District Sights & SoundsDr. Peter Storey- The ChurchDr. Peter Storey is former president of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa, past president of the South African Council of Churches, and was Methodist Bishop of the Johannesburg/Soweto area for 13 years. A native South African with a 60+ year track record in urban and Justice ministry, Professor Storey founded a network of crisis intervention centers in South Africa in the 1960s and served as chaplain to Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners on Robben Island. In the 1980s he became a national leader in the church struggle against apartheid and co-led an ecumenical delegation to the...2021-10-1154 minMetro District Sights & SoundsRev. Ellis CarsonA conversation with Rev. Ellis Carson, Pastor of Ceila Phelps UMC, a 116 year old congregation of the United Methodist Church, in Western North Carolina. We unpack the now and the rebuilding process, after facing a devastating 3:00 a.m. fire on August 6, 2021. A call to action from the community and the connectional church to support financially, and cards/letters of hope and encouragement as Pastor Ellis and the people of Ceila Phelps Memorial UMC journeys “Through these Uncharted Territories.” We believe they will rise from the ashes, to impact their communities in fresh, new and innovative ways, like the...2021-08-2623 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territory "The Church" with Rev. Dan PezetA conversation with Rev. Dan Pezet, the new Metro District Superintendent in the Western NC Conference of the United Methodist Church, about leading and triving through these Uncharted Territories as the church. The Metro District is the largest district out of the eight in WNCC. The general population, according to the NC census, is the most diverse population in North Carolina. The question we must ask ourselves as the church, and as leaders in our communities, How do TRIVE, Pivot, Re-set through these Uncharted Territories into the global NEW Normal? - Culturally, Economically, Innovatively, Justice and Equity...2021-08-2329 min
Metro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territory - The New Normal - “The Global Student Mission”Miriam Swanson, is a leader within Fusion, a movement born out of the United Kingdom. Over twenty years ago, the pioneers of Fusion were gathering to pray for a move of God amongst the exploding university student population, spurred on by the clear need to reach 18s-30s who were largely not connected to church. From these prayer meetings, Fusion was born. Fusion helps local churches reach college students, and helps college students find hope in Jesus and home in the local church. They equip youth ministry leaders to prepare their high school leavers for college and transition them i...2021-03-0233 min
Metro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through UnCharted Territories - The New Normal: "Now What, Black Methodists for Church Renewal inc. BMCR?" A People called Methodist A candid conversation with the National Coordinators of Black Methodists for Church Renewal Inc., leaders, Rev. Antoine "Tony" Love, and Ms. Deborah Bass. Joining the conversation is the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church BMCR Coordinator, and Metro District new church start pastor, Rev.Charlie Rivens. The conversation centers and engages the questions, "Why was BMCR important (history) for the merger with Evangelical United Brethren church, the Methodist church and the Central Jurisdiction Black Methodists? How are we doing now? (present), and What's Next for BMCR (future) and the United Methodist Church, as we serve One God, s...2021-02-0148 minMeans of GraceWNCC Lay Leader John CraneIn this episode, Caroline Wood has a conversation with John Crane, WNCC Lay Leader about the ministry of the laity and John’s passion for the church. John is a native of Gastonia, NC, where he and his wife, Roxanne, and sons Jonathan (20) and Zackery (17) are members of First UMC-Gastonia. He has most recently served on our Conference Board of Laity as a result of his service as the District Lay Leader for the Catawba Valley District, but has served previously as an at-large member Board, including serving as the director of the annual "Gathering of the Laity" event fo...2020-09-0128 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through UnCharted Territories - The New Normal: “Re-Launch”A conversation with Rev. Kyle Thompson states, for 20 years, Sharon United Methodist Church in Charlotte, North Carolina, faced declining membership, and community engagement, despite its location being one of Charlotte’s fastest-growing, upscale communities, where the church was across the street from the luxurious SouthPark mall. So when the leadership began to discuss renovating the building, with its distinctive “ski-slope steeple”, the Rev. Kyle began to think even bigger. “What if we could create an environment where we would do life together, where sacred and secular would intersect, where we could be the soul of SouthPark?” he said. “Wha...2020-07-2044 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through UnCharted Terriorities - Rev. Dr. Nancy Rankin: The New Church’s NormalA conversation with Rev. Dr. Nancy Rankin. We started the 2020 New Year, with every faith community in the WORLD, I hope, having a Mission Statement, A FRESH 2020 Vision, and A Plan of Engagement, ready to forge ahead into this NEW Decade. Then the world paused, due to the destructive GLOBAL PANDEMIC, the new narrative arose in America: ESSENTIAL Vs. NON-Essential workers and the word Sheltering in Place. I am grateful for - front line essential workers. Then the faith communities, we were called to Shelter in Place, the Doors of our physical buildings were closed, BUT we the people, r...2020-06-1744 min
The Goh Show#TeamGohJo Update V.1In today's episode of The Goh Show, I'm turning the spotlight onto the clients of GohJo Studios and the work they've been doing to have real and meaningful conversations around COVID-19, Black Lives Matter and more. Tune in to hear from: - The Biscuit CLT Podcast (Charlotte Is Creative) - Means of Grace (WNCC UMC) - Metro District Sights and Sounds (Metro District UMC) - Roadmap to Grow Your Business Podcast (Stacey Brown Randall) - The Power of Design Podcast (Jack Ossa) - Digital Inclusion...2020-06-1336 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Mrs. Erin Hawkins on Race, Racism and the Church's Clarion Call to Action Pt.4A conversation with Erin Hawkins - General Secretary of The Commission on Religion and Race a Global Agency of The United Methodist Church. Ms. Hawkins during our conversation pertaining to membership stated, “We want people to believe, in order to belong. But what if we started creating places of belonging, in order to bring people to a place of believing?” This past week on our three part podcast series of Leading Through Uncharted Territories - Race, Racism and the Church's Clarion Call to Action. We’ve had “Truth Talk” and I am grateful for the feedback, the calls, text...2020-06-0835 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Dr. Mark DeYmaz - Race, Racism in America and the Church: The United Methodist Church's Clarion Call to Action Pt. 3In light of the murder of George Floyd - Minneapolis, Ahmaud Arbery - South Georgia, Breonna Taylor- Kentucky, the Mother Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church massacre - Charleston SC. The protest, the riots and the list goes on and on. As difficult as it has become, as Christians we must speak truth about race, racism in America, and how the Church can no longer be silent, sit on the sidelines, believe that there is not a problem, that it is not my problem, I didn’t cause this problem etc… As people of God, each of us has a mandat...2020-06-0543 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Rev Junius Dotson and Dr. Lovett Weems - Race, Racism in America and the Church's Clarion Call to Action. Pt. 2In light of the murder of George Floyd - Minneapolis, Ahmaud Arbery - South Georgia, Breonna Taylor- Kentucky, the Mother Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church massacre - Charleston SC. The protest, the riots and the list goes on and on. As difficult as it has become, as Christians we must speak truth about race, racism in America, and how the Church can no longer be silent, sit on the sidelines, believe that there is not a problem, that it is not my problem, I didn’t cause this problem etc… As people of God, each of us has a manda...2020-06-0350 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Dr. Elaine Heath and Dr. Fatimah Sellah - Race, Racism in America and the Church: The United Methodist Church's Clarion Call to Action Pt. 1A conversation In light of the murder of of George Floyd - Minneapolis, Ahmaud Arbery South Georgia, Breonna Taylor in Kentucky, Mother Emmanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church massacre in Charleston SC. The protests, the riots, and the list goes on and on. As difficult as it has become, as Christians we must speak truth about race, racism in America, and how the Church can no longer be silent, sit on the sidelines, believe that there is not a problem, say that is not my problem, say I didn’t cause this problem etc… As people of God, each of us ha...2020-06-0149 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Rev, Monica Humpal and Rev. Emily Kroeger Family Ministry Pt. 2A conversation with Rev. Monica Humpal and Rev. Emily Kroeger. Because Covid-19 has forced the world to shelter in place, and although each state, has begun the opening Phase 1 and Phase 2 process, SPIRITUAL FORMATION has shifted from the church buildings to where ever people are sheltered in place together. During my coaching conversations with leaders has been how to shift, pivot, and re-focus through these Uncharted Territories into our global New NORMAL. Rev. Monica and Rev. Emily and I will have a conversation focused on family ministry and how to engage so that families are equipped to deepen their fa...2020-05-2546 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Family MinistryA conversation with Rev Rhonda Hermann, associate pastor at Blair Road United Methodist Church pertaining to Navigating Family Ministry @Home and making it an intentional part of our everyday lives, not just when the doors of the church are closed. Resources SparkHouse Story Book Bible - https://www.wearesparkhouse.org/promos/family-sun- day-school/ Pray and Play Bible - https://playandpray.net/ Eugene Patterson for Bible for Children - A Devotional for Kids Blair Road Website- http://www.blairroadumc.org/2020-05-1927 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted Territories - Mental Health ConcernsA Conversation with Jay Cobb, executive director of Sanctuary Counseling Group a faith based organization that specializes in bringing healing to the mind, heart and spirit by providing excellent emotional, spiritual and relational health care to people in the communities we serve. Our goal is to offer each client a safe place without judgement or shame. We walk with them where ever they are in the journey without any expectations. Our 14 therapist are from various religious, cultural, and educational backgrounds. Overall, our counselors work with the population in general, but each one offers their own expertise ranging from couples, t...2020-04-2727 minMetro District Sights & SoundsA Conversation with Ray Shawn McKinnon, Pastor of South Tyron Community ChurchA Conversation with Ray Shawn McKennon, Pastor of South Tyron Community Church - a United Methodist Church in Charlotte, NC that serves the Brookhill and Southside communities, now called SouthEnd. There are over 300 of our sisters and brothers who are on the spectrum of low economic income, with 1/3 being children who live there. Our conversation is centered around what role should the church play in the Affordable Housing crisis, how should the church imagine a society where no one is forced to make life work, on $25, 000 yr - for a family four, 30% (AMI income), and how does the church...2020-04-2032 minMetro District Sights & SoundsRev. David HockettA conversation with Rev. David Hockett, Metro District Superintendent of the United Methodist Church, in Western North Carolina. Unpacking the essentials of being the church, and leading the church during Holy Week, having Easter Sunday in our homes and “Through Uncharted Territories,” to the other side. Resources from Podcast NT Wright article link: Christianity Offers No Answers About the Coronavirus. https://time.com/5808495/coronavirus-christianity/ John Wesley - “Thoughts upon Methodism” I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should only exis...2020-04-1238 minMetro District Sights & SoundsLeading Through Uncharted TerritoriesFour decades of ministry, Rev. Jan Brittain, believes leader's of the church, already have what is needed to navigate through our current reality of “Uncharted Territory.” Rev. Jan shares the importance for Christian leaders to remember that, “God is Love”, “We can’t help how we feel, but we can help what we do.” Pastor Jan also shares what she has coined as the Christian essentials to lead. Rev. Jan Brittain is a relevant, passionate leader with a heart for God and God’s people.2020-04-0743 min
Stories Along the JourneyComing Soon: Stories Along the JourneyComing Soon: Stories Along the Journey, a podcast produced quarterly by the Appalachian District of the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church.2020-01-2200 min
Grace UMC (Greensboro) Sermon Podcast"Are You Hungry and Thirsty?" - Guest Preacher Rev. Mark PortisRev. Mark Portis, retired WNCC pastor, was our guest preacher this Sunday. We looked at John 6:22-35, in which Jesus describes himself as the bread of life and the fountain of living and water. Jesus is the answer to our deepest desires.2019-08-1922 min
Connect RadioEpisode 6- A Conversation with Neil BrownThis episode of Connect airs on February 11, 2015. Neil Brown is a layperson at Spruce Pine UMC in Spruce Pine, NC. He is also the president of the WNCC United Methodist Men. Our conversation will look at his life in the church, what led him to be active in UMM, and then what the program of of UMM looks like in Western North Carolina.2015-02-1130 min