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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.

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When laughter intertwines with profound life insights, you know you're in for a treat. Tiff Jones joins us, bringing the warmth and wisdom from her years as an assistant principal and seasoned educator. As we chat, you'll hear us swap tales of friendship and the comedic dance of aligning our personal lives with the unyielding schedules of work and ministry.

Imagine the reverberations of a life built on faith, family, and the influence of mentors—we unpack all that and more. My own narrative of growing up in a Christian home and the pivotal moments that shaped my faith journey will intertwine with Tiff's reflections on mentorship, from high school coaches to early teaching roles that shaped her career. We'll also celebrate the unexpected paths that volunteer work can pave, leading us to places and purposes we never anticipated, like Tiff's life-changing basketball mission trip.

Rounding out our conversation, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes of student ministry—the volunteers. At the bustling Battle Creek's Broken Arrow Campus, we dissect the art of matching passion with purpose, maximizing the skills of our Dream Teamers to avoid burnout and bolster our youth initiatives. If you've ever wondered about the strategic finesse required to keep a volunteer team thriving, or the sweet synergy of community contributions at church events, this is your backstage pass to the heart and hustle of leading with love and intention.

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When Brad Eason, a Multi-Area Director for FCA, and I sat down to record this episode, we discovered a shared passion – the transformative power of faith and cooperation in Christian ministry. We unpacked the synergy between the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and local churches, diving into how this alliance is pivotal in strengthening individuals' relationships with Christ. Brad opened up about his journey, sharing his victory over addiction and how golf became an unexpected spiritual practice for him, illustrating that our personal interests often weave seamlessly into our ministry work.

The episode is filled with heartfelt stories that navigate through the rugged terrain of life's highs and lows – a testimony to the undeniable strength that faith and community can provide. We revisit one man's tumultuous path, from his roots in Murray County to a life of revelry, and how an emotional encounter with a pastor redirected him towards a life of purpose and ministry. It's a narrative that reverberates with the essence of redemption, reminding us that no journey is too wayward when it comes to finding one’s way back to faith.

Beyond personal tales, this podcast celebrates the significant influence of coaches in the spiritual and personal development of young athletes. We recognize the tireless efforts of those in the FCA, where the love of sport meets the love of Christ, creating a nurturing ground for youth to grow in character and faith. From coaching conversations that shape lives to FCA camps that build skills and spirit, join us to explore the profound impact of these communal efforts and the power of effective communication in weaving a stronger, more faithful collective.

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Embark on a heartfelt journey with me, Zac Priest, as I sit down with someone who's more than a pastor—he's a long-standing comrade in faith, Chris 'the machine' Gully. Together, we navigate the transitions and triumphs of his ministry, from the vibrant days with Cimarron Baptist Association to his influential role at Cherokee Hills Baptist Church. Chris's candid reflections on almost a quarter-century of marriage, parenting grown kids, and the formative years at Northwest Baptist offer more than anecdotes; they provide a masterclass in cultivating a life of purpose and an enduring legacy of leadership.

This conversation delves into the foundational aspects of ministry—how we hold onto our vision and purpose amidst the whirlwind of leadership responsibilities. Chris and I dissect the powerful message of 2nd Corinthians 5, revealing how scripture informs our path to magnify the king and fortify his kingdom. We talk about aligning with our creator to discover our unique callings, shaping church culture, and embedding our vision into every facet of ministry. It's not just about avoiding burnout; it's about fostering a church ethos that resonates so deeply it becomes a living, breathing manifestation of our mission.

In a landscape where leadership transitions can be as precarious as walking a tightrope, Chris and I discuss the art of building relational equity and trust. We emphasize the importance of healthy leadership and the necessity of a collective approach to discernment and vision-casting. Listen closely as we unpack stories of implementing change with patience, intentionality, and the kind of excellence that only comes from a clear, communicable vision deeply rooted in spiritual conviction. We're peeling back the layers of ministry to reveal the transformational power of servant leadership and the collaborative spirit needed to nurture and sustain a thriving church community.

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The sweltering Oklahoma heat once put Kent Epling's relentless cheer to the test, but not his commitment to ministry. With a twinkle in his eye, he recounts this story and many more as we sit down with him to uncover the profound impact of his extensive tenure at Meadowood Baptist in Midwest City. His journey is a testament to the beauty of nurturing relationships across generations and the fulfillment that comes from a family deeply woven into the fabric of church life. The energy of our conversation with Kent will leave you with a renewed sense of purpose and a hearty dose of good humor.

Grasp the intricacies of youth ministry through the eyes of someone who’s witnessed its evolution firsthand. Kent Epling delves into the art of balancing timeless gospel truths with the swift currents of youth culture. We probe into the tales of personal growth and divine calling, shedding light on moments that can alter one's path in unexpected ways. From the wisdom of children to the invaluable insights of mentors, these stories will stir your soul and embolden you to embrace each chapter of life with grace and enthusiasm.

Prepare to be inspired by our heartfelt discussion on the significance of mentorship in both giving and receiving, the strategies for recruiting and nurturing youth workers, and the enduring influence of personal and spiritual relationships. Witness the true essence of ministry longevity through Kent’s experiences and the wisdom he shares on sustaining a vibrant community impact. By the end of our exchange, you'll be reminded of the crucial role that seasoned volunteers play and the refreshing perspectives that newer ones bring, knitting together the fabric of a resilient ministry.

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When I sat down with Jake Anson from FBC Ardmore, we couldn't resist taking a stroll down memory lane, laughing at the slip-ups and sentimental moments that make student ministry so enriching. Our conversation took us from the high-energy escape rooms to the hilarious 'F word' incident, showcasing how creativity in youth programs isn't just about the big events—it's woven into our everyday interactions and the personal growth we witness in the young leaders emerging from our communities. This episode is a testament to the vibrant tapestry of life and faith that we're privileged to be a part of, and we're inviting you to laugh, learn, and grow with us.

If a university mascot's tumble can land on SportsCenter, imagine what everyday creativity can do for youth ministry. That's what Jake and I dissect, illustrating that the genesis of inspiration can be as simple as Waffle Wednesdays or as grand as a community-wide event like D-Now weekend. Our dialogue bridges the gap between the necessity of preparation and the beauty of spontaneity, offering practical advice for infusing your ministry with creativity—regardless of budget constraints. From the legacy we leave in our students to the ingenious reuse of decorations, our tales are sure to spark your own ideas.

This episode isn't just about looking back; it's about reaching out and moving forward. We're thrilled to announce that our student ministry adventures are expanding onto YouTube, ready to connect with you across new horizons. As you join us on this journey, feel free to engage, share your thoughts, and become part of the vibrant conversation that extends beyond the church walls. Welcome to an episode packed with encouragement, innovation, and the shared laughter that binds us all in this calling of ministry.