Shows
Black Fire PodcastSeason 4: Episode 4 - 5 Years of Faith & Fire | A Kingdom Conversation with Ben & Kate GriffinWelcome back to the Blackfire Podcast! 🔥 In this powerful episode, Pastor Cyrena Denniston sits down with long-time ministry partners and dear friends, Ben and Kate Griffin, to reflect on 5 years of walking together in faith through the journey of Blackfire Ministries. 🌍 From the spark of vision to global impact, hear how God has been building something beautiful across nations and communities. This is more than a catch-up — it’s a deep, faith-filled conversation about obedience, friendship, and trusting God's timing. 📖 Topics include: The origin and heart behind Blackfire Ministries What it means to say “yes” to a Kingdom mission Lessons from 5 ye...2025-06-2651 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 4: Episode 3 - Meet Catalyst Aleysha Will, A Story of Inspiring Faith and LeadershipIn this inspiring episode of the Blackfire Podcast, we sit down with Catalyst #16, Aleysha Will, a dynamic leader, student at North Central University, and passionate advocate for faith and community change. Aleysha shares her powerful faith journey, overcoming challenges, and her calling to serve others both locally and internationally. From her upbringing in a diverse family to her recent trip to Africa with Souls for Jesus, discover how her resilience and love for God propel her to make a difference. Tune in for words of encouragement, leadership insights, and a heartfelt prayer to strengthen your walk with Christ. Don’t...2025-06-1942 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 4: Episode 2 - Called with Purpose: Bishop Howell on Faith, Fire, and Community🔥 In this powerful episode of Black Fire Podcast, Pastor Cyrena Denniston 🎙️ sits down with her spiritual mentor and beloved leader, Bishop Richard D. Howell, Jr. ✝️, Senior Pastor of Shiloh Temple International Ministries in Minneapolis 🏛️. With heartfelt warmth 💛 and divine insight ✨, Bishop Howell shares his journey of faith 🙏, calling 📖, and unwavering commitment to serving God and his community 🌍. Together, they explore the weight and wonder of living a life led by the Spirit 🕊️, the legacy of leadership 👑, and the fire that sustains those who are truly called 🔥.
2025-06-1251 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 4: Episode 1 - Pastor Stephanie Williams O'Brien / Rooted in Calling, Reaching the CityGet an unfiltered glimpse into the life of two powerhouse pastors navigating faith, leadership, and Easter chaos! In this episode, Pastor Cyrena Denniston and Stephanie O’Brien keep it real about what it means to lead with purpose, stay grounded in the Spirit, and juggle it all when the schedule won’t stop. 👉 Whether you're a church leader, a Jesus follower, or just need a moment of real talk and laughter, this one's for you. 🎧 Don’t miss a moment—hit that subscribe button and join us for more candid convos that uplift and inspire! 📲 Follow us on socials to keep the encou...2025-06-0533 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 11 - Pastor Colin Miller, An Allie For Change🙌 A Soulful Conversation with Pastor Colin Miller | Hosted by Cyrena Denniston 🙌 Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt discussion as Cyrena Denniston sits down with Pastor Colin Miller to explore faith, purpose, and the power of spiritual connection. Whether you're seeking encouragement, wisdom, or just a moment of peace in your day—this conversation is sure to bless you. 🙏 Topics We Cover: Finding strength in faith The importance of spiritual leadership Personal stories and practical insights 🕊️ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected with more uplifting content!
2025-04-1850 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode10 - From Spark to Blaze: The Journey So Far🔥 Welcome to the Black Fire Podcast! In this episode, host Cyrena Denniston is joined by Venance from Blackfire Ministries to reflect on Season 3 and share powerful updates on what God is doing behind the scenes. Don’t miss this spirit-filled conversation full of purpose, passion, and vision. 🙌✨
2025-04-1057 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 9 - Bruce Smith, an Allie for ChangeJoin us for a heartfelt conversation with Bruce Smith as he shares personal updates on family, resilience, and navigating life’s challenges. From caregiving to major life changes, Bruce opens up about his journey with honesty and grace. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring discussions!
2025-04-0350 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 8 - Mission History of Kwame Bediako from GhanaIn Black Fire Ministries we hold the African Proverb of Sankofa close to our hearts because we believe in learning from those who came before us so that together we can build a stronger tomorrow. Join us as we look back in time at the life of Kwame Bediako and the impact he had on those around him and the legacy he left behind.
2025-03-2709 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 7 - Mama Agnes, a mother to many lost children.In the very special episode we get to know Mama Agnes from Kalima Guinea. A very special woman who answered the call to be a light for children who had no home in the communities in and around Kalima Guinea. Hear of her incredible story!
2025-03-2028 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 6 - Maria Fearing Female Missionary Born Into Slavery BUT Called By GodMaria Fearing was an American teacher and missionary, most famous for her work in the Congo Free State.
2025-03-1318 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 5 - Catalyst Amos shares on the TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF WORDSCatalyst Amos B Gift shares a powerful message about Jesus' love and closeness, encouraging us all to believe in Him and let His transformative work begin in their lives. Amos shares his own survival story, attributing it to God’s purpose for his life.
2025-03-061h 14
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 4 - Faith-Driven Speaker, Mentor, and Author Takeya NecoleTakeya Necole is a faith-driven speaker, author, and mentor dedicated to helping women unlock their God-given potential, walk boldly in purpose, and build multiple streams of income aligned with their gifts. Through her transformational coaching, Equipped Life University, and inspiring books like Brand New Scars and The Reset Journey, she empowers others to rise from adversity and step into their divine calling. Her wisdom, authenticity, and passion make her a sought-after voice in faith, confidence, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship
Follow & Connect:
Instagram: @TakeyaNecole
YouTube: Takeya Necole
TikTok: @TakeyaNecole
Website:Â www.takeyanecole.com
...2025-02-2743 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 3 - Catalyst 12 Olivia Nabunjo Pro-Life AdvocateIn this episode we get to know our 12th Catalyst Olivia who is 19 years old and a pro-life activist in Uganda with the help of Africa Life Youth Foundation. To know more about Olivia and Gods Plan Life Club: https://africalyf.org
2025-02-2033 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 2 - Igniting Hope In Uganda, RECAPPING WITH OUR BLAZE TEAMOur blaze team (Ps Richard, Kékéli, Priest, Daniel, Janell, and Cyrena) reflect on their experience in Uganda from 11-19th of January 2025. They had the incredible opportunity to team, ignite, transform, catalyze, and amplify 250 students from 17 different church in partnership with Africa Youth Life Foundation. During this time they had three separate outreaches into the surrounding community and saw over 100 individuals come to Christ.
2025-02-1335 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 3: Episode 1 - Empowering the Youth of Africa, ONE LIFE AT A TIMEPastor Richard Sempala’s journey from the streets of Kampala, Uganda, to a life of purpose is a testament to redemption and hope. Rescued as a child by Rev. Kefa Ssempangi, he was given shelter, education, and, most importantly, a personal relationship with God. This experience ignited his passion to rescue abandoned babies, orphans, and street children—offering them the same hope that saved his life. Since 2002, Richard has dedicated his life to empowering marginalized youth through the Africa Life Youth Foundation. His mission is clear: to restore dignity, provide opportunity, and raise up the next generation of leaders in C...2025-02-0621 min
She’s The PlugThe Power of Mastermind – The Importance of Wise CounselWelcome back to The Equipped Life Podcast! In this exciting episode, part of our Mastermind Series, we explore The Power of Mastermind: The Importance of Wise Counsel.I’m joined by the incredible Cyrena Denniston, a passionate leader, licensed Assemblies of God pastor, and the Founder and Visionary of Black Fire Ministries. With nearly three decades of experience in music, missions, multi-generational teaching, and worship leadership, Cyrena brings powerful insights about the significance of surrounding yourself with godly, wise counsel.✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:2025-01-3129 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2 FinallyJoin us as we finish off an incredible season chatting about our Ignition Launch on November 23rd. Follow along as Cyrena, Janell, Daniel, Priest, Jean, Lazard, and Faith share their favourite moments and tell of the moments that impacted them the most.
2024-12-1957 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 11 - Mission History Lott CarryIn this episode Daniel shares a bit about the life of Lott Cary. Our heart as a mission organization is to tell the stories of those who came before in the African diaspora. So join us we dive into Cary’s incredible story!
2024-12-1214 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 10 - Meet our 11th Catalyst Joshua OrugbohGet to know Joshua as he shares his testimony as well as how God is using Joshua to share the good news through his powerlifting competitions and journey with us as he tells of the work God has laid on his heart to inspire the next generation.
2024-12-0636 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 9 - Meet Ablavi “Kékéli” Gaba Our 9th CatalystIn this episode we get to know our 9th catalyst. She share her faith journey, going from orphan to God providing a family. As well as we get to hear about her two initiatives.
2024-11-301h 01
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 8 Meet our 10th Catalyst Jon OdomJoin us as we get to know more about father, preacher, and poet Jon Odom His incredible story of overcoming and as he shares his heart for his generation.
2024-11-2937 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 7 - Meet our Allies Portia AllenOne of our Allies, Portia Allen, share her faith journey growing up in church and she shares her journey to discovering her passion for mentoring and speaking with woman.
Find more out on her website: www.portiaallen.com
Instagram: @portia_allen
2024-11-0752 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 6 - Meet our 8th Catalyst Jean EliséeGet to know our 8th Catalyst from Guinea, Conakry as we speak with him in person as He shares about his journey and how he overcomes challenges in Guinea, as well as his heart.
2024-10-3127 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 5 - Up and Coming rap Artist Priest JonesToday we get to know our 7th Catalyst as he shares his journey of coming to his own faith, seeking Gods will for his life and his music. As well as sharing his heart for the next generation. He tells of his first mission trip to Africa and the incredible things he saw God do.
Instagram: @priestjonesmn
His YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCmCnlWiw4BnzeXf8j2mmaQ
His documentary: https://youtu.be/1R8Yx4sv0yY?si=eXWVsfxOpa8NXCTP
2024-10-2452 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 4 - Evangelist and Catalyst Faith A. AllenIn this fiery episode we get to know our 6th Catalyst Faith A. Allen as she shares her heart for her generation and a part of her incredible testimony and how God used the unexpected to reach her at her lowest. You do not want to miss this episode!
2024-10-1756 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 3 - Guinea RecapJoin Cyrena and three of our catalyst (Venance, Lazard, and Janell) as they share what God has done in and through them on their impact trip to Guinea Conakry.Â
2024-10-1053 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2: Episode 2 - Claire TorresIn this Episode we meet Claire Torres, one of our allies. We get to know her story of how God called her, equipped her, moved her from the UKÂ to the US, as well as the development of her ministry and so much more.
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A few resources mentioned in this podcast:Â
Glory, Pete Greig, also Consumer Detox Mark Powley
2024-10-0354 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 2 Episode 1: Sam DunyaIn our first episode of season 2, we meet Sam Dunya. We hear his incredible story of growing up cross culturally and how his parents inspired him to be who he is today. We also get to know more about the foundation he had founded and how God used him to reach a whole village through an act of obedience.
2024-09-2638 minBlack Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 11 - Season FinallyJoin us at our season finally as we look back on our favorite moments and share a few behind the curtain tidbits.
2024-08-0947 minBlack Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 10 - Lazard Maomou 4th CatalystJoin us in this episode as we get to know Lazard Maomou, number 4 of our 100 catalyst. Get to know his heart, story, and journey as he tells us of how God guided Lazard to be in ministry. Hear how faithful God was in His walk with Lazard, increasing Lazard influence to ignite people to share the word. As well as challenge and grow so that he can be more effective in the work of God.
2024-08-0220 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 9 - Mission History Joseph MerrickIn this episode Janell Talks a bit about the life of Joseph Merrick, a Jamaican born, Africa Diaspora Baptist Missionary, who of which did incredible work that impacted generations to come. The shocking thing? Not many people know of him or the work he did. So join us as we dive into the rich mission history of the African Diaspora.
2024-07-2520 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 8 - Part B: The Importance of Discipling the Next Gen/7 Core Values Part BCyrena Denniston, the founder of Black Fire Ministries, shared a transformative moment where she realigned the ministry's mission and vision with God's guidance. She emphasized the importance of relationship in God's plan and encouraged the audience to be open to change and trust in God's plans. Cyrena unveiled the ministry's new goal of 100 catalysts and discussed the core values of divine anchoring, love-rooted revolution, and a missionary heart. She passionately discussed the significance of discipleship, the promise of God's constant presence, and the assurance of victory in obeying His commands. Her message inspired a deep sense of hope, joy...2024-07-1825 minBlack Fire PodcastThe Importance of Discipling the Next Gen/7 Core Values Part BCyrena Denniston, the founder of Black Fire Ministries, shared a transformative moment where she realigned the ministry's mission and vision with God's guidance. She emphasized the importance of relationship in God's plan and encouraged the audience to be open to change and trust in God's plans. Cyrena unveiled the ministry's new goal of 100 catalysts and discussed the core values of divine anchoring, love-rooted revolution, and a missionary heart. She passionately discussed the significance of discipleship, the promise of God's constant presence, and the assurance of victory in obeying His commands. Her message inspired a deep sense of hope, joy...2024-07-1825 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 8 - Part A 7 Core ValuesCyrena Denniston, the founder of Black Fire Ministries, shared a transformative moment where she realigned the ministry's mission and vision with God's guidance. She emphasized the importance of relationship in God's plan and encouraged the audience to be open to change and trust in God's plans. Cyrena unveiled the ministry's new goal of 100 catalysts and discussed the core values of divine anchoring, love-rooted revolution, and a missionary heart.
She passionately discussed the significance of discipleship, the promise of God's constant presence, and the assurance of victory in obeying His commands. Her message inspired a deep sense of...2024-07-1130 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 7 - Daniel & Janell Look back on our Durban tripIn this episode we hear from Daniel and Janell about their thought on the South African impact trip to Cape Town and Durban.
Highlights:
1: 8th Cape Town city outreach
2: Durban Training and outreach
3: Cape Town Training and special outreach
4: A moment of honour
2024-07-0459 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 6 - Dr. Jolene ErlacherJoin us in getting to know Jolene and what drives her and ignite her passion in her incredible field of work.
Highlights:
@7:38 Jolene's faith journey and passion for the next generation Jolene shares her faith journey, growing up as a third culture kid and developing a deep relationship with God. This led her to a passion for equipping and supporting the next generation, which inspired her to start Leading Tomorrow.
@11:08 Navigating identity and finding confidence in Christ
Jolene discusses the challenges of growing up as a third culture kid and not feeling...2024-06-2735 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 5 Part B - Cyrena & VenanceAs we go into part B of getting to know our 3rd catalyst. He shares how God used his knowledge and documentary to touch people he encounters lives.
Highlights:
- How he navigates social and community constructs while keeping his focus on God.
- How God used his knowledge of ancestral worship to connect with someone who is lost and broken.
- His advice for his generation and the next generation.
2024-06-2033 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 5 Part A -Cyrena & VenanceJoin us in this episode in getting to know the heart of our #3 of the 1000 catalyst.
Highlights:
-Venance faith journey
-How God brought him to make Bible available to church planters in Benin
-The Documentary project he is working on
2024-06-1334 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 4 Part B - Daniel ThringWe continue on from where we left off in the last episode in hearing from Daniel Thring more about his life and the wisdom he has to give his generation.
Highlights:
-How he navigates social and cultural changes while he is pursuing the call of God on his life
-How we can allow Gods love to break the pain off the past
-How Daniel would encourage his generation on how to move forward
2024-06-0626 min
The Leading Tomorrow PodcastConnecting with a Diverse GenerationIn this episode, Jolene is joined by Cyrena Denniston from Black Fire Ministries, to discuss ways to effectively connect with a diverse younger generation.  Show Notes: https://linktr.ee/blackfireministries2024-06-0135 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 4 Part A - Daniel ThringIn this first part of Episode 4 we get to know Daniel who is number 2 of our 1,000 Catalyst and hear his story and journey till now. Highlights:
- Daniel’s Journey
- His faith and obedience in entering into ministry
-A big turning point in his journey
-A time he stepped out of his comfort zone and how that helped shaped his life
2024-05-3026 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 3 Part B - Cyrena & JanellGet to know #1 of our 1,000 catalyst Janell Nolan as she tells us her testimony of how God brought her through depression and how she came to be apart of the 1,000 catalyst for Black Fire Ministries. Highlights:
-How God has purpose her calling.
-Her breakthrough from depression.
-Her heart for her generation.
2024-05-2428 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 3 Part A - Cyrena & JanellGet to know #1 of our 1,000 catalyst Janell Nolan as she tells us her testimony of how God brought her through depression and how she came to be apart of the 1,000 catalyst for Black Fire Ministries.
Highlights:
-How God has purpose her calling.
-Her breakthrough from depression.
-Her heart for her generation.
2024-05-1631 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 2 - Cyrena Denniston & Shawn BassonIn this episode we get to know one of Black Fire Ministries board members Shawn Basson. Follow along as you hear about his life, his heart, and his mission.
Highlights:
-Being called from the age of three.
-His heart and passion for his congregation in connection with reaching the lost.
-The importance of church leaders being involved first hand in reach their communities.
2024-05-0939 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 1 Part B - Where It All Came From Where It Is All Going BFPThank you for joining us for part B of Episode 1. If you haven’t watched part A, go check in out. In this episode she continues telling us about how God lead her back to Africa and shares her heart and vision for Black First Ministries.
Highlights:
George Flood Protest
Joshua 1:9
Togo, West Africa Outreach 2022
The Meaning Behind BFM Name
Matthew 5:13-16
BFM Core ValuesÂ
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George Floyd Protest Video: https://www.facebook.com/steigerinternational/videos/690674808173070
2024-05-0250 min
Black Fire PodcastSeason 1: Episode 1 Part A - Where It All Came FromFollow along as you get to know Cyrena while she shares her life and testimony. This is the story of how Black Fire Ministries was placed on her heart and the journey up until now.
Highlights:
Cyrena’s Early Years
Redemption & Healing
Music Ministry
Mission Experiences
Call To Pastoral Ministries
And so much more!
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2024-04-2535 min
Friendship Church - Sunday Morning MessagesMission Sunday - Cyrena Denniston with Steiger International2023 Missions SundayAt Friendship Church, we take seriously Jesus' call to share the gospel to everyone near and far.Cyrena Denniston with Steiger International preaches from the Shakopee campus.2023-03-0646 minFriendship Church - Sunday Morning MessagesMission Sunday - Cyrena Denniston with Steiger International2023 Missions SundayAt Friendship Church, we take seriously Jesus' call to share the gospel to everyone near and far.Cyrena Denniston with Steiger International preaches from the Shakopee campus.2023-03-0646 min
Heart of the City RadioAug 20, 2021 All-Music Summer Concert Series (56 min)Our final Summer Concert featuring: LOVECOLLIDE (Undeniable), Aaron Rios (You Alone Reign feat. Marco Fabretti), SEU Worship HOLA (Fuente de Vida/Fountain of Life), Psalm 101 (Rescue Me), Shabach Worship (Fanfare), Heart of the City Worship Band (No Turning Back feat. Cyrena Denniston), Gaylen Paul (Ancient of Days), Heather Deters (Reconciled), Justin Gambino PICTURED (Going Under), Jorad L Holmes (Welcome), Jewel McLaurin (Thank You Lord) and Elisha St. James (So Good To Me).2021-08-2056 min
The Freedom Formula for Physicians | How Doctors Cut Debt & Slash Taxes | Business Of Medicine | Financial EducationS2, Episode 49-My DaughterIt was May 13th, 2012. Mother’s Day. My wife, Cyrena, was having an incredibly difficult pregnancy. She had pounding headaches, blurred vision, and searing pain throughout her body.
As a matter of fact, she had been in and out of the hospital for the last two weeks. Our tiny daughter was only developed 23 weeks in gestation. Her due date was September 9th, 2012. Unfortunately, my wife had extremely early onset toxemia and preeclampsia.
Amid tears, she gripped my hand as we were told, “The blood flow is slowing between mom & your daughter. She is fighting, but she...2020-11-0620 min
Provoke & Inspire PodcastEpisode 243: “This Isn’t Just a Skin Problem, This Is a Sin Problem!"- Cyrena Bell Denniston.In this episode, Ben is joined by the ladies and special guest Cyrena Bell Denniston - worship leader and vocalist for the metal band 'Seed' in Minneapolis, MN.They discuss how, in light of the tragedy of George Floyd - as well as the systemic racism in our world, we need to take advantage of this window where people will actually listen, and ask ourselves, "what are we going to do to change ourselves in this time?"Follow BenInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nzbenpierceTwitter: https://twitter.com/thetigerbelly/benalanpierceFacebook...2020-06-041h 03