Shows
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSInstitute for DiscipleshipThe Bishop Richard and Julia Wilke Institute for Discipleship is tucked in a corner of the campus at Southwestern College. But its reach goes far beyond its Winfield, Kansas, home. In this episode, Todd talks with key leaders at the institute about all the programs they offer, about what is new with BeADisciple.com, and more about a new app for Disciple Bible Study.
He talks to Steve Wilke about his pending retirement, and Todd will introduce you to Dr. Cheryl Rude, who will take over as executive director in January.
2025-12-0259 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing RunBishop David Wilson and three others representing the Great Plains Conference took part in the 2025 Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run in October. The annual event honors the more than 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho people — mostly women, children and elderly persons — who were slaughtered by a band of volunteer soldiers on Nov. 29, 1864, along Big Sandy Creek in eastern Colorado.
The group was led by Col. John Chivington, who was a Methodist Episcopal pastor. As part of a resolution passed by the 2012 General Conference, The United Methodist Church has been taking part in actions of repentance while seeking to buil...
2025-11-1249 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSRoland Fernandes, GBGMRoland Fernandes considers it a privilege to serve as general secretary of the General Board of Global Ministries in a time when there are so many opportunities to serve as the hands and feet of Christ. The top executive of GBGM and the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry took time from his busy schedule to talk about The United Methodist Church's efforts around the world, as well as the importance of UMCOR.
In the episode, Roland makes reference to GBGM's "This Moment Matters" campaign. Learn more about it at https://umcmission.org/giving/this-moment-matters
2025-10-1431 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSBrian Kaylor on Christian NationalismChristian Nationalism is not patriotism. It may actually be considered idolatry. Where is the line? And how do we ensure we aren't pushing Jesus from the center of the throne? Rev. Brian Kaylor, a Baptist pastor, journalist and author, will be the special guest at Orders & Fellowship in October. He will share the history of this phenomenon and will help pastors understand better how they can lead their congregations so that they still can show love for their country without falling into the pitfalls that have happened for others in the past.
Download this podcast. You also...
2025-10-0829 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSDisciple Bible Study AppThe daughters of Bishop Richard and Julia Wilke, the authors of the Disciple Bible Study series, talk about the development of an app that allows people to take a fast-track approach to the study of the Bible. Guests for this episode include Susan Fuquay and Sarah Wilke. The sisters share about how the vision for the app came into focus, key innovative features, and how important Bible study remains as a key component of growing in our faith.
2025-07-1854 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSOmaha Immigration RaidThe June 10 raid on the Glenn Valley Foods meat processing plant in south Omaha has left the community stunned, frightened and isolated. People now are fearful to leave their homes, and businesses are hurting.
Pastor Juan Carlos Veloso, who serves a Hispanic church in the area, shares what he encountered that day and the ongoing challenge to share the love of Christ with people broken by the after-effects of the raid. Also, Rev. Chad Boling, who also serves in south Omaha, talks about his work with a rapid response team that has worked to keep people informed...
2025-06-1845 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLydia Patterson InstituteDr. Carla Cardoza, president of the Lydia Patterson Institute in El Paso, Texas, shares how students at the grades 7-12 school have been caught up in the immigration debate. Their students — almost all of whom have F-1 visas — have been put in limbo by the U.S. State Department because of a suspension of interviews for visa renewals.
2025-06-1734 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSMinistry in Motion – Digital Marketing for Your ChurchIn this episode, we learn about a workshop available for Great Plains Conference congregations meant to help them develop marketing plans for their local churches. Don Osborn, a marketing professional who helped devise the marketing strategy for The Vine UMC in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, will lead the workshop, and he talks with Todd about what people will learn as part of this discussion.
2025-04-0739 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSHoly Land Task ForceAs the war in Gaza continues, Todd talks with Carol Ekdahl-Garwood, chair of the Great Plains Conference's Holy Land Task Force. During their discussion, we learn about the peril of Palestinian people, the delicate balance between supporting Israel while pointing out human rights concerns, and what life is like away from the media spotlight we often see on national news.
2025-03-1840 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCoach Different with Matt Williams
Youth sports should be a time of fun, development and building character. But it's often quite the opposite.
Matt Williams — a standout catcher at Duke University who played in the Chicago Cubs organization — joins Todd to talk about a one-day workshop titled "Coach Different." Matt, the digital engagement team director at Resurrection, a United Methodist Church who has coached young people, wants to give youth coaches a chance to learn how to reduce stress, make the best use of their time and increase the positive impact they can have on boys and girls of a...
2025-03-0433 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSInternship PossibilitiesIn this episode, Todd talks with Rev. Dr. Ashlee Alley Crawford and Rev. Melissa Collier Gepford about changes to the Great Plains Conference's internship program. An additional guest — Rev. Grace Woods from Topeka First United Methodist Church — shares her journey from summer intern to a pastor working with a Great Plains intern.
If you have questions about internships in the Great Plains Conference, please reach out to:
Rev. Dr. Ashlee Alley Crawford — aalleycrawford@greatplainsumc.org
Rev. Melissa Collier Gepford — mgepford@greatplainsumc.org
2025-02-2642 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSImmigration Issues, with Andrea ParetThe issue of immigration continues to grow in prominence as we move closer to the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. During the campaign, he promised mass deportations and the closing of our U.S. borders. What impact does that have on people seeking a better life for their families in this country? Andrea Paret, a Department of Justice accredited representative at Mary Treglia Community House in Sioux City, Iowa, shares her reflections as a person who works with immigrants to this country.
2025-01-1334 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe TableThe Table is a different kind of evangelism tool used by Bonfire, a Korean-language and culture church start in Olathe, Kansas. The Table is a biweekly meal with invited guests who have the chance to build relationships through conversation while gathering around food.
This episode features one gathering in December at The Table, with Bishop David Wilson, members of his Cabinet and representatives from Bonfire.
2024-12-2044 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSImmigration FrustrationsThe campaign promise by President-elect Donald Trump for mass deportations has created more than a little anxiety among people who are immigrants to the United States. While some Americans may think it worthwhile to deport people illegally in the country, many people who are on the pathway to permanent residency or even citizenship fear the route the finish line they have been moving toward may be pushed farther back or eliminated. Todd Seifert talks to three pastors — themselves immigrants to the United States — about the fears they have heard from members of their communities and what their churches are doin...
2024-12-1044 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSNative American Heritage MonthNovember is Native American Heritage Month. We celebrate by talking with Bishop David Wilson, an enrolled member of the Choctaw Nation and also with Cherokee lineage. We also share some remarks and interviews from a U.S. Indian Boarding School Remembrance the Great Plains Conference hosted Sept. 28, 2024, at Saint Paul United Methodist Church in Lincoln, Nebraska.
2024-11-1938 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSights and Sounds from Leadership InstituteEach September, Resurrection, a United Methodist Church, in Leawood, Kansas, hosts Leadership Institute. This time, Todd took along a microphone and recorded short interviews in hallways, in the backs of workshop rooms, in the corner of the sanctuary and even behind the chancel in an effort to give a snapshot of what participants experienced at this year's event.
2024-10-2449 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSPublic Service Series: Jeff HartWe wrap up a three-part series on United Methodists serving in local elected offices with an interview with Jeff Hart, who has served on his village board in Lynch, Nebraska, for more than 20 years. He's also a school teachers and working toward becoming a licensed pastor in the UMC.
2024-10-2219 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSOrders & Fellowship Primer: Dr. Ashley BogganIn a short episode of the "In Layman's Terms" podcast, Todd Seifert, communications director for the Great Plains Conference, interviews Dr. Ashley Boggan, general secretary of the General Commission on Archives and History for The United Methodist Church. Dr. Boggan talks about what clergy will hear from her as she presents our plenary learning times during Orders & Fellowship on Oct. 28-30 at Resurrection, a United Methodist Church, in Leawood, Kansas.
2024-10-2115 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSPublic Service Series: Robin CarlsonTodd continues his series on laity serving in public offices with a fun interview with Robin Carlson. She runs a nonprofit clinic in Courtland, Kansas, and she's also the town mayor. It's a story of a hometown girl who left for the big city and returned to make her United Methodist Church and community better.
2024-10-1528 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSNew Church DevelopmentNew church starts can be difficult. The Great Plains Conference's New Church Development board has implemented some new strategies and is, literally, traveling the world to see how it's done elsewhere. Todd explores some of the new strategies being employed by the NCD board to help build new faith communities that will thrive.
In this episode, Todd talks with Rev. Dr. Gerald Liu, PhD, the conference's emerging faith communities cultivator; Amy Haines, a newcomer to the NCD board; and Rev. Changhyun Kim, who has started a new Korean-language faith community in Olathe, Kansas.
2024-09-1155 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSPublic Service Series: Tyler CurtisTodd starts an intermittent series on laity serving in elected office. With so much of the discussion focused on the presidential race, it's easy to forget that many more decisions that impact our lives are made at the local level. In this opening episode to the series, Todd discusses how faith and service intersect with Tyler Curtis. Besides his work with the Kansas Methodist Foundation, he recently was chosen to finish out a term left vacant by a death on the Emporia City Commission.
2024-09-0630 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSDisaster Response with Rev. Hollie TapleyThe Great Plains Conference's Disaster Response/Assistance Fund could use a boost. To explain how the fund helps individuals, Rev. Hollie Tapley, the conference's Disaster Response coordinator, shares some details about the fund, information about Disaster Response in general, and how you can participate with your financial assistance and time as a volunteer.
Learn more at https://www.greatplainsumc.org/disasterresponse.
Donate to the fund: https://gp-reg.brtapp.com/GPDisasterFund.
2024-08-2632 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGetting to Good: A book and discussion with Rev. David LivingstonWe still struggle with some of the same problems as Jesus' first followers — and some problems they didn't have to face. In this episode, Rev. David Livingston, lead pastor at Old Mission United Methodist Church in Fairway, Kansas, talks with Todd about his new book, "Getting to Good." David's first published book explores seven common struggles of contemporary life. Through scripture, contemporary examples, and personal stories, David shares the causes of these issues and some concrete steps to get to a good place of their own. "Getting to Good" doesn't attempt to wish away the problems we face. Instead, it...
2024-07-2940 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCatching Up With Bishop WilsonWe kick off recording in our new sound studio with a discussion with Bishop David Wilson. The bishop shares reflections on General Conference, the Great Plains Annual Conference session and the challenges facing delegates at the upcoming South Central Jurisdictional Conference.
2024-06-2535 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGeneral Conference Preview — Rev. Adam HamiltonIn the conclusion of a five-part series previewing the upcoming United Methodist Church's General Conference, Rev. Adam Hamilton, lead pastor of the denomination's largest congregation based in Leawood, Kansas, provides a summary of key issues delegates will address and talks about how his church has thrived amid these uncertain times.
2024-04-1355 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGeneral Conference Preview — Rev. Amy LippoldtIn the fourth of a five-part series, Rev. Amy Lippoldt provides some education and great insights into the global nature of The United Methodist Church. As a member of the Standing Committee on Central Conference Matters, Amy has been exposed to many parts of the worldwide aspects of the church that aren't easily seen from our pews in Kansas and Nebraska.
Some apologies before you start listening: A bad cable was discovered — but not until the editing process. The process used to eliminate the high-pitched hum that was throughout the interview recording resulted in poor audio quality fr...
2024-04-1343 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGeneral Conference Preview — Rev. David LivingstonIn the third of a five-episode series previewing General Conference of The United Methodist Church, Rev. David Livingston shares his thoughts on three widely known priorities for progressives and centrists, as well as some details from his travels to the African continent to meet with delegates there.
2024-04-1341 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGeneral Conference Preview — Lisa MaupinOur five-episode series previewing General Conference of The United Methodist Church continues with Lisa Maupin, the lay leader of the Great Plains Annual Conference.
In this discussion, Lisa shares her reflections on what have become known as the "3 R's" and shares other insights on topics surrounding the General Conference, scheduled for April 23 to May 4, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
2024-04-1050 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGeneral Conference Preview — Rev. Mark HollandThe first in a five-episode series on the upcoming General Conference of The United Methodist Church features Rev. Dr. Mark Holland, the co-founder of Mainstream UMC. He kicks off the series by explaining three priorities his organization has set for the conference, which starts April 23, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina.
The priorities are regionalization, removal of restrictive language involving LGBTQ+ persons from the Book of Discipline, and stopping further disaffiliations from the denomination.
2024-04-1045 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSNebraska United Methodist Foundation grantsThe Nebraska United Methodist Foundation has a series of grants to help local ministries get started, expand and augment their reach to their communities.
This episode tells the stories of three ministries assisted by these grants in Nebraska — an entrepreneurial idea at Connection Point in Lincoln, children’s and youth curriculum for The Vine United Methodist Church in Scottsbluff, and a different way to help Brady UMC in the North Platte area worship without a pastor.
Learn more about the Nebraska foundation.
2024-03-061h 04
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCivil Rights Immersion — Episode 3Members of the Great Plains and Louisiana conferences of The United Methodist Church took part in a four-day civil rights immersion trip to the areas around Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama, in July 2023.
It was the idea of former Great Plains Clergy Excellence Director Rev. Dr. Dee Williamston, now bishop of the Louisiana Conference. She and Bishop David Wilson of the Great Plains — the first Native American bishop in the denomination — teamed up to lead the group on an educational experience that expanded minds, filled hearts with love — and most importantly challenged the emotions of all who took part.
2024-02-1932 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCivil Rights Immersion - Episode 2It’s Black History Month, and so this In Layman’s Terms podcast is providing a three-part series on a trip made by members of the Great Plains and Louisiana conferences to the areas around Montgomery and Birmingham, Alabama — both places that played significant roles in the civil rights movement.
The trip was a civil rights immersion trip to help educate, inspire and stir to action followers of Christ. One of the goals was to give people the tools they need to combat racism and to push for equity in our society.
In this second of thr...
2024-02-1939 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCivil Rights Immersion - Episode1In July 2023, a group of clergy and laity from the Great Plains Conference met up with fellow United Methodists from the Louisiana Conference for a civil rights immersion experience. Over the course of four days, the group lived the history of Alabama.
Our group spent much of its time in Montgomery. We saw the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church and walked in the parsonage where Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King lived. We spent the better part of a day at the Legacy Museum, a mission of the Equal Justice Initiative (or EJI). It’s an amazing museum that us...
2024-02-1931 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe Ark: Packing PerseveranceAs we continue our lessons from the Ark, we'll explore what it means to persevere. We know we'll face storms in life, so how can we be prepared? And how can we endure? Thankfully, we can lean on the Holy Spirit as our traveling companion.
2024-02-0627 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe Ark: Packing Compassion for the JourneyAs we continue considering lessons from the ark — as learned through other passages in scripture — we come to compassion. Just a little of it, along with encouragement, can go a long way toward lifting up others.
2024-01-3028 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe Ark: Building Our Spiritual StrengthOur short series on lessons from the ark begins in earnest with looking at our need for spiritual strength when the storms of life arise. And that means we have to prepare. In this and the remaining episodes about the ark, we have a special guest, Rev. Dr. Richard Randolph, a United Methodist pastor and director of stewardship for the Nebraska United Methodist Foundation.
2024-01-2537 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe Ark: Built in the SunshineTodd starts a five-episode series on lessons we can learn from Noah and the ark. In this first episode, we explore the importance of faith and of preparation.
2024-01-1918 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSThe Caring CongregationOne of the most important parts of being the church is caring for one another. But it's not just the pastor's job. Indeed, it's important that laity are heavily involved in providing excellent care for one another. Doing so strengthens the sense of community, shows the love of Christ and helps boost the vitality of local congregations.
The Caring Congregation, an organization founded by retired United Methodist elder Rev. Karen Lampe, aims to teach congregations of all sizes how it can provide better care for one another and the communities they serve. A special online webinar is...
2024-01-0440 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSBishop David Wilson Talks about Native American Heritage MonthBishop David Wilson talks with Todd about Native American Heritage Month, when we celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples during the month of November. This conversation covers an immersion experience in Oklahoma, recognition of U.S. Indian Boarding Schools, and more about the bishop's travels across the country.
LINKS
Powwow Photo Album — https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjASZbF
Immersion Trip Album — https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjARU6e
Blog about the Oklahoma Trip — https://www.greatplainsumc.org/blogdetail/in-laymans-terms-pondering-culture-after-a-native-american-immersion-experience-17589860
Videos:
Day 1 — First Americans Museum — https://www.greatplainsumc.org/videodetail...
2023-11-1545 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke, The Sequel: The Acts of Using the Tools We’re GivenPaul makes use of an empty altar to explain to skeptics who Jesus is and about our all-powerful God. We’ve been given all the tools we need to share the good news, even if we sometimes have to improvise. This episode wraps up our short series on the book of Acts.
2023-07-1118 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke, The Sequel: The Act of Accepting All PeopleThe study of the book of Acts continues with a lesson about how we sometimes make following Christ more difficult than it needs to be. Love God, love others, and make disciples. A story about a Dallas-area pastor augments the scripture about Peter and Cornelius.
2023-07-0622 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke, The Sequel: The Act of Showing Trust in GodAfter a longer-than-expected hiatus, the podcast returns, and we resume our study of the book of Acts, the sequel to the Gospel of Luke. Saying we believe is fine, but actions speak louder than word. Ananias teaches us that lesson.
2023-06-2818 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke, the Sequel: The Act of Staying CuriousThe story of the Ethiopian eunuch and Philip teaches another lesson from the book of Acts. It's important for us to act on our faith by remaining curious and embracing the questions we ask about our faith.
2023-05-1624 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke, the Sequel: The Acts of Speaking BoldlyAs we explore what the book of Acts has to teach the church today, we explore what it means to speak boldly for Jesus in the world today. And, yes, we are all capable of speaking up for Christ.
2023-04-2518 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLuke the Sequel: The Acts of the ApostlesWe begin a multi-week series on the book of Acts. We'll look at the book as a sequel to the Gospel of Luke and a continuation of Jesus teaching how to lift up the lowly, engage the outcast, and embrace the outlaw. In this first episode we look at 3 lessons Jesus taught during his ascension to Heaven.
2023-04-2025 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSBishop David Wilson – 100 DaysOn the 100th day of Bishop David Wilson's tenure as bishop of the Great Plains Conference, he shares in a discussion with Todd what he's been up to so far in Kansas and Nebraska, as well as plans for the weeks and months ahead.
2023-04-1036 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSBook Tour: Lessons from Pandemics PastOne of the biggest disruptions in the life of the church in the past few decades was clearly the COVID-19 pandemic. I suppose you could make an argument that it’s still causing disruption.
The Congregational Excellence team of the Great Plains Conference wants to help clergy and laity process what has happened, come to grips with our current reality and, — and this is most important — realize there is hope for the future. So in late April and early May, author Rev. Rebekah Simon-Peter will be making a book tour with workshops in five Great Plains cities — North Pl...
2023-04-0329 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCCLI — Enhance Worship While Protecting Your ChurchCCLI and similar licensing services allow for churches to make song sheets, project lyrics and use other tools to enhance worship. Their efforts support the composers whose work we use while also protecting churches from copyright concerns. Todd talks with two representatives from CCLI, who explain how they work and what CCLI and other similar organizations do.
2023-03-2041 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLaity Summit 2023One of the newer traditions in the Great Plains Conference is our annual Laity Summit. Guests in this episode include Lisa Maupin, conference lay leader, and Rev. Rebekah Simon-Peter, our keynote speaker for this day dedicated to training and education specifically for laity. The 2023 edition is scheduled for March 18. And it’s completely online, using Zoom, so you can participate from anywhere in Kansas or Nebraska — or the world for that matter.
The theme this year is “And They Dreamed.”
You can learn more and register by going to www.greatplainsumc.org/laity-summit.
2023-03-1043 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCenter for Pastoral EffectivenessOur world today is filled with anxiety, and the church is not immune. The Rev. Bill Selby recognized that long ago and launched what is known as the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness. He has made it his ministry to help pastors better navigate anxiety and improve connections with congregants and their communities.
2023-01-2446 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSpace at the TableThe Space at the Table event in mid-November talked about the bright future of The United Methodist Church and featured Rev. Dr. Mike Slaughter, panels of young clergy, academics and bishops, and discussion about how to strengthen the Black church. This episode features excerpts and brief interviews from the venue in Dallas.
And check out this story from United Methodist News Service.
2022-11-221h 00
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — Dee WilliamstonThis interview features Rev. Dee Williamston, director of clergy excellence and assistant to the bishop in the Great Plains Conference, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2521 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — David WilsonThis interview features Rev. Dr. David Wilson, assistant to the bishop in the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2526 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — Laceye WarnerThis interview features Rev. Dr. Laceye Warner, associate dean for Wesleyan Engagement and the Royce and Jane Reynolds associate professor of evangelism and Methodist studies at Duke University Divinity School, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2527 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — Eddie RiveraThis interview features Rev. Dr. Eddie Rivera, provost of the New Mexico Conference, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2525 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — Randall PartinThis interview features Rev. Dr. Randall Partin, senior pastor of St. John’s United Methodist Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2523 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — Laura MerrillThis interview features Rev. Laura Merrill, Capital District Superintendent in the Rio Texas Conference, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2527 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSCJ Episcopal Candidates — David GilmoreThis interview features Rev. David Gilmore, Northwest District Superintendent in the Missouri Conference, as part of a short series featuring brief interviews with the episcopal candidates in the South Central Jurisdiction.
2022-10-2520 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSFuture of the UMC: Bishop’s ReflectionsBishop Ruben Saenz Jr. shares some reflections on what has transpired in The United Methodist Church, the process of disaffiliations, and his hope for the future of the denomination as we conclude a short four-episode series on the future of the UMC.
2022-08-301h 01
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSFuture of the UMC: Disaffiliation & RelationshipsIn the third of four episodes in the short series, we learn about what it means to disaffiliate, a perspective from a church that is leaving the denomination, and the philosophy used by trustees as they work with disaffiliating churches.
2022-08-221h 12
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSFuture of the UMC — Where We Have BeenOur short series on the future of The United Methodist Church continues with a look at the history of the human sexuality debate within the denomination. Todd is joined this time by Rev. David Livingston and Randall Hodgkinson, who provide their perspectives and some historical context to what has happened since the first debate in 1972 through today.
2022-08-0855 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSFuture of the UMC — Where Things StandA new series looking at the future of The United Methodist Church kicks off with this episode that examines where things stand at this moment in the life of the denomination. The series kicks off with an interview with the Rev. Adam Hamilton, lead pastor of United Methodist Church of the Resurrection, the largest congregation in the denomination based in Leawood, Kansas, but with five campuses across the Kansas City area. He also is the leader of the Great Plains Conference's delegation to General Conference.
2022-08-0142 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSongs of Faith: ”How Great Thou Art”We continue our Songs of Faith sermon series with a look at the beloved hymn "How Great Thou Art." The lyrics praising God's creation gives us a chance to celebrate mountains, oceans, deserts, forests, all of the animals on the planet, people — and even dinosaurs!
2022-05-2318 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSongs of Faith: ”Amazing Grace”One of the most amazing conversion stories involves a sailor named John Newton. Once a captain of a slave ship, he eventually repented and became an Anglican priest who wrote the beloved hymn "Amazing Grace." But the journey Newton took from slave ship operator to abolitionist was long and winding. See how his journey led to the writing of a song that talks all about repentance, redemption and God's forgiveness.
2022-05-1724 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSongs of Faith: ”Be Thou My Vision”Mothers help protect and nurture us. They also help cast a vision for our lives. We use the story of Jochebed and Moses to help celebrate Mother's Day as we spotlight the song "Be Thou My Vision."
2022-05-0924 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSongs of Faith: It is Well with My Soul”The hymns we sing shape us. So what shaped the hymns? "It is Well with My Soul" comes from a haunting cable after a shipwreck and is testimony to the amazing faith of Horatio Spafford. See how Jesus calmed the sea in the Bible and how He can calm the rugged seas in your life, too.
2022-05-0215 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSDoubting Thomas — Believe it or NotPoor Thomas was really no different than any of the other disciples. He needed to see the wounds on Jesus' body before he believed. Using the story of Thomas and the creative tales from Robert Ripley — of "Ripley's Believe it or Not" fame, we explore how we have seen the risen Christ in action in our lives and how we can help others see Jesus in the world today.
2022-04-2620 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSJesus Unchained: A discussion with Rev. Robert JohnsonThe Rev. Robert Johnson, lead pastor at Saint Mark United Methodist Church in Wichita, shares details about his first book, "Jesus Unchained: How to Rise Above The Agendas, Find Peace and Be Set Free." In this interview, Johnson shares how he thinks followers of Jesus actually lessen His power by limiting the Savior's influence on their lives. They, in effect, place him in the chains of the limiting image we create of Jesus in our minds, when he could be making a much larger impact on the hearts of people each and every day.
2022-04-1929 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSEaster 2022 — In An InstantOur lives change in an instant — actually one instant after another, from the time we are a child until we take our last breath. The Easter story is an example of lives changing in an instant. Through the story of Mary Magdalene and a more contemporary story of an abandoned boy, we explore how lives change in an instant.
2022-04-1416 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLove Your EnemiesContinuing with the "Sermon on the Plain," we look at what it means to love our enemies. And we ask the question: Did Jesus really mean what he said? Despite how difficult it can be to love those who disagree with or for some reason dislike us, the answer is a resounding "Yes!"
2022-02-2119 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLooking Up and Down — Equity over EqualityLooking at Jesus' Sermon on the Plain, we explore in this episode the importance of those of us with plenty to help those who do not. Our goal is equity as we attempt to usher in the Kingdom of God on Earth.
2022-02-1617 minIN LAYMAN'S TERMSGoin’ Fishin’ (and Giving Up Some Independence)Many of us know well the story of Jesus calling the first disciples and how they would "fish for people." But in that same story is a lesson about independence — specifically how there are bigger and better things ahead if we are willing to give up some of our independence as we trust and follow Jesus.
2022-02-0817 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSJealousy — Jesus in His HometownUsing the story of Jesus' proclaiming himself to be God's anointed and the reaction from people in his hometown of Nazareth, we explore the feeling of jealousy and the withholding of the truth that Jesus is the Savior for all of humanity.
2022-02-0122 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSPurple Zone part 2 — Introduction to an Issue GuideThe Rev. Dr. Leah Schade returns to "In Layman's Terms" to pick up on the conversation we stared in 2021 about her book, "Preaching in the Purple Zone." In this episode, she shares an issue guide designed to help United Methodists discuss LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the upcoming General Conference.
Rev. Dr. Schade has provided proposed sermon outlines to be used with the issue guide. These are not provided as requirements but rather to serve as resources for pastors interested in using the Sermon-Dialogue-Sermon method.
Download the PDF version.
Download the Word document version.
2022-01-2530 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSMama’s Miracle BoyThe miracle of turning water into wine might seem trivial, but a closer look reveals how Jesus interacted with His mother as an adult while teaching us about transformation. The miracle also paved the way for Jesus' first followers to buy into His ministry.
2022-01-1816 minIN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdoption into God’s FamilyTodd shares the audio from a sermon he provided from his basement on the first Sunday in January 2022 — a cold, icy day in Lawrence, Kansas. Using the text from Ephesians 1, we explore how we are adopted into the family of God thanks to the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
2022-01-0517 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2021: The Redemption of Scrooge — JoyOur short series on "The Redemption of Scrooge" concludes with an exploration of how our miserable miser of a character rediscovers joy. May we do so and keep Christmas all year round!
2021-12-2119 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2021: The Redemption of Scrooge — LoveAs we continue with the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, the Ghost of Christmas Present teaches our lead character three important aspects of love: Showing love by being part of a community, showing love by showing mercy to others, and showing love in true, genuine relationships with those closest to us.
2021-12-1421 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2021: Redemption of Scrooge — PeaceOur advent series focused on redemption continues, as does our exploration of the classic story "A Christmas Carol." In this episode, Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the Ghost of Christmas Past, and the miser starts to recognize that his life doesn't have to be as lonely and miserable as it has become. Scrooge is starting to understand that he can have a sense of peace.
2021-12-0721 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2021: Redemption of Scrooge — HopeAdvent is all about the anticipation of the arrival of the Christ child. But why did Jesus come to live among humans in the first place? To provide an opportunity for redemption for all of us. In this four-episode series, we explore our redemption by following the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge from the classic tale, "A Christmas Carol," by Charles Dickens. As old Scrooge is changed, we will see the themes of Advent come to life. We start with "Hope."
2021-11-3026 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGratitude part 3 — Thanks ... In Jesus‘ NameTodd concludes a special three-part series on showing gratitude to God during the week of Thanksgiving 2021 with a study of how Jesus gave thanks.
Unlike many of us, Jesus didn't just give thanks for what already had happened, but He also thanked God prior to performing miracles and before willingly dying for humankind — lessons in showing great faith that God would provide what was needed.
2021-11-2317 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGratitude part 2 — King David‘s Guide to Giving Thanks: the PsalmsOur special three-part series on giving thanks to God continues with an examination of how King David showed his gratitude toward God:
Looking back at what God already had done for him and the Israelite people.
Praising the traits and truths of God.
Understanding God listens to our prayers.
Having faith that God will answer.
2021-11-2324 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSGratitude part 1 — Giving Thanks in Good Times & BadIn a special three-part series the week of Thanksgiving 2021, Todd studies how to show gratitude to God. The series starts with lessons from the prophet Daniel, who showed that we should give thanks to God when things are going really well for us, but also when times are tough.
2021-11-2321 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCLM Part 3 — Academy for Small Membership Church MinistriesTodd continues his series on certified lay ministry with an interview with the Rev. Dr. Carl Ellis. Besides being a retired elder serving two rural churches in southeast Kansas, Carl is the founder and leader of The Academy for Small Membership Church Ministries. In this episode, Carl shares his views on lay ministry and provides an update on changes regarding the academy — plus a special online workshop planned for late February.
2021-11-0548 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCLMs Part 2 — Teaching & PreachingWe continue a short series on certified lay ministries and certified lay servants with a look at how one CLM, Bryan Hankins, serves two churches in the Omaha area as an associate pastor. Learn about his passion for teaching, how he works with the appointed pastor, and about an exciting multi-language effort for the Lay Servants Ministry Basic course within the Great Plains Conference.
2021-10-0540 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSCLMs Part 1 — Leading the Local ChurchWe start a short series of episodes examining certified lay ministers (CLMs) and the role they play in the local church, how they are trained, and why more people may want to prayerfully consider exploring becoming a CLM. In this episode, host Todd Seifert talks with Jada Hodgson, a CLM serving as pastor at Plum Creek United Methodist Church near Paola, Kansas. It is believed that Jada was the first CLM in the United Methodist denomination.
2021-09-0341 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSSeeking Justice as ChristiansThe “In Layman’s Terms” podcast concludes its series on re-emerging from our in-home exiles with a look at how we can reshape our communities to more closely resemble the Kingdom of God. A key part of that effort likely is justice ministries.
Host Todd Seifert, conference communications director, interviews the Rev. Sarah Marsh, the new coordinator for mercy and justice ministries. They talk about the difference between mercy ministries and justice ministries, and they discuss the partnership the conference has with two organizations that are building grassroots community organizing efforts across Kansas and Nebraska.
2021-07-2144 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLydia Patterson InstituteIn this special video episode of "In Layman's Terms," host Todd Seifert talks with Dr. Socorro de Anda and Rev. Larry Moffet about the Lydia Patterson Institute. LPI is a ministry of education and discipleship for kids along the border of El Paso, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico. Download the episode.
You can learn more about LPI by going to its website: https://lpi-elpaso.org/.
Watch a video of this interview.
Listen to more "In Layman's Terms" episodes at https://toddseifert.com/podcast/.
2021-06-3051 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSKeeping What WorksThe re-engagement series continues with an interview with the Rev. Stephanie Ahlschwede, lead pastor at St. Paul United Methodist Church in the Benson neighborhood of north Omaha. She and Todd talk about the things St. Paul tried as a means of staying connected to its community and parishioners and how some of those efforts are now so ingrained into the church that they will remain long after the pandemic is over.
In this episode, Stephanie references several videos you may want to check out for yourselves:
Pianoside Church.
The online children's Christmas pageant.
Provide a devotion...
2021-05-1239 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSReading the BibleWe continue our look at re-engaging our faith by examining how we read the Bible. In this episode, Rev. Jeff Goetzinger from the Hutchinson area and Todd talk about their different strategies for reading through the Bible in 365 days.
2021-04-2935 minIN LAYMAN'S TERMSReturning from Our Own ExilesContinuing with the theme of re-engaging our faith and communities after the pandemic, Calvary UMC in Wichita serves as an example of how preparation and flexibility can keep people connected to each other and, most importantly, to God.
Rev. Michael Marion and Rev. Ashley Prescott Barlow Thompson sit down with Todd to talk about how the pandemic forced them to make decisions and how the congregation is adapting even 13 months after the start of the COVID-19 outbreak.
2021-04-2243 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSLet's Build! – Embracing the New NormalAs we come nearer and nearer to being able to return to life from our in-home exiles, we are embarking on a new series focused on rebuilding our communities and strengthening our spiritual disciplines.
Using the stories from the Old Testament history books of Ezra and Nehemiah, the goal is to share stories about how people and churches are preparing to re-engage with their congregations, their communities and with God through their own faith practices.
This first episode in the series sets the stage by taking a brief look at Jewish history and the way...
2021-04-1524 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSMinistry Within the Purple ZoneOur country is more divided than ever. We have red states and blue states, and even red and blue congregations. Or do we? Aren't our congregations really just different shades of purple? The Rev. Dr. Leah Schade joins Todd for a discussion about her book, "Preaching in the Purple Zone," and how a method she has developed heavily involves the input from laity to help a church determine its response to topics pertinent to our times.
2021-03-0538 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSOliver Green: Coming of Age in the Civil Rights EraOliver Green has been heavily involved in the Great Plains Conference since its inception. As we wrap up Black History Month, Oliver shares his story and what it was like to move into adulthood — as an African-American man — during the Civil Rights Movement.
Oliver shares how the movement of the 1960s is similar to the cries for racial justice that we experience today, what attracted him to leaders like Malcom X and Martin Luther King and what can we do today to move forward on the important topic of racial justice.
2021-02-2641 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSContinuing the push for racial justiceIt's been nine months since the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, so Todd Seifert, host of the "In Layman's Terms" podcast, decided to tell some follow-up stories featuring guests who helped explain the impact of police and other kinds of violence upon people of color in earlier episodes in the spring of 2020.
Eugenio Hernandez, the conference’s multimedia production specialist, took it a step further by recording this video of the interview discussions with the Rev. Dee Williamston, superintendent of the Salina and Hutchinson districts, and the Rev. Robert Johnson, lead pastor of Saint Mark United Me...
2021-02-2255 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSListening & Response — Part 2In the second of a two-episode series on how we listen for God's call to service in our lives and then how we respond to that call, Todd looks at the call of Peter, Andrew, James and John as Jesus' disciples. The story teaches us how we should respond to God's call.
2021-02-1617 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSListening & Response — Part 1In the first of a two-part series examining how God calls us to service, Todd shares a reflection from 1 Samuel that recounts the call of the prophet who would anoint the first two kings of Israel. As you listen to the episode, consider how God may be reaching out to you.
2021-02-1020 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSJesus: Child of Light — A Re-telling of the Christmas StoryThis compilation of the Christmas story takes the accounts from Matthew, Mark and Luke — framed in the concept of light coming into the world from John — to tell the story of the birth of Jesus.
2020-12-2238 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2020 — Showing LoveIn this fourth week of Advent, Todd continues to explore the themes of each week's candle. This week we light the candle of love. See how Jesus showed love to others and, particularly, to all of us through his sacrifice on the cross.
2020-12-1817 min
IN LAYMAN'S TERMSAdvent 2020 — Enduring JoyWe often think of joy as a feeling we have after a fun activity or an emotion to be felt when we're among loved ones. But Jesus explained that joy is something much deeper than that. It's a state of being, an enduring trait. Jesus explains how we find joy and how we maintain it, even amid difficult circumstances.
2020-12-1116 min