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What happens when a tornado upends your community, and you find yourself at the heart of the recovery efforts? Join us on this heartfelt episode of the "It's What We Do" student ministry podcast, where I, Zac Priest, recount my experiences during the recent disaster in Sulphur. From the damage to homes and businesses to our ministry's role in providing crucial relief, relive the moments that tested our strength and unity. Our special guest, Ryan Williams, worship pastor at Crossway Church, shares his incredible journey over the past nine years, transitioning from recreation to leading worship and tech, and the impact it has had on his life and family.

Have you ever felt lost in your career path, only to find your true calling in the most unexpected way? Ryan opens up about his college years filled with uncertainty and the pivotal internship in Breckenridge, Colorado, that altered his life's direction. Initially set on becoming a teacher, Ryan's experiences and mentorships led him to embrace a full-time role at Crossway, evolving from an intern to a worship leader. His story is a testament to perseverance, growth, and the divine guidance that shaped his ministry journey, making for an inspiring conversation you won’t want to miss.

What does worship truly mean beyond the songs we sing? In our discussion, we explore worship as an inward and outward expression, referencing scriptures like John 4 and Romans 12:1. Ryan and I delve into creating a positive worship culture, investing in student worship ministry, and the joys and challenges of managing a student band. From practical tips for fostering young musicians to the importance of heartfelt worship preparation, this episode is packed with insights for anyone involved in ministry or passionate about the transformative power of worship.

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What if a single storm could redefine the strength and unity of a community? Join me, Zac Priest, as I recount the harrowing yet inspiring story of Sulphur, Oklahoma’s recent experience with a devastating tornado. Before a busy summer filled with enriching activities like camp Crossway and Super Summer Oklahoma, we were thrust into an unexpected and heart-wrenching ordeal. Listen as I share the emotional journey of witnessing the extensive damage to our town's cherished landmarks and the incredible outpouring of support from volunteers and organizations coming together to help us rebuild.

Our expanded church facilities have become a beacon of hope and a hub for disaster response, thanks to the generous contributions of groups like Mercy Chefs, Samaritan's Purse, and the Red Cross. Discover how these organizations have transformed our space into a lifeline for meal distribution, volunteer training, and emergency housing. From local artist TJ Todd’s musical contributions to the collective efforts of our resilient community, this episode shines a light on the power of faith, unity, and unwavering support. Your prayers and continued encouragement are vital as we navigate through this challenging time and work towards a stronger future for Sulfur. Thank you for standing by us.

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Embarking on a journey through time, I found myself reuniting with John Moles, a dear friend and guiding light from my early teen days. Our conversation is a treasure trove of nostalgia, wisdom, and laughter, peppered with impactful anecdotes that resonate with anyone who's ever navigated the choppy waters of leadership. Whether it was grappling with the whims of teenage years or savoring the simple joy of the perfect sweet tea, John's insights from his tenure at Park Hill Baptist Church serve as both a balm and a beacon for those of us dedicated to our congregations and families.

Peering into the rearview mirror of our ministry work unearthed not only cherished memories but also the profound growth that comes from years of commitment. Our chat traverses the terrain of family dynamics, the balancing act required in student ministry, and the nuanced art of building trust with both churchgoers and fellow staff. It's a testament to the shared experiences that bind us, as we charted the course from wide-eyed novices to seasoned shepherds of faith. The real kicker? Exploring our favorite things outside the church walls, from cinematic guilty pleasures to the eternal debate of chocolate preferences, offering a rare glimpse into the personalities behind the pulpit.

As our conversation winds down, we pivot to the power of mentorship and the unwavering support of a spiritual network, crucial for any minister's toolkit. Drawing from the wisdom of veterans like Zac and John Moles, we underscore the necessity of continuous learning and the humility required to seek guidance when the going gets tough. For those new to the journey or wondering how to deepen their ministry roots, this episode is a heartfelt reminder of the enduring impact of patience, authenticity, and the strength found in community.