In this episode of Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, Reverend Doctor Kent Lundy welcomes Reverend Chris Stephens from the Nappanee United Methodist Church. With only five months into his journey at Nappanee UMC, Chris shares his experiences, joys, challenges, and aspirations as a new pastor.

A notable theme of the episode centers around the idea of new beginnings. Chris, still within his "honeymoon period" at Nappanee, candidly discusses the learning curve he's navigating, from getting acquainted with the congregation to, quite humorously, finding all the light switches in the church. This season of adaptability underscores the importance of resilience and openness in ministry.

Takeaway #1: Finding Joy in Family and Ministry

Throughout the discussion, Chris emphasizes the joy his children bring to his life. With three kids aged 11, 4, and 2, Chris often finds himself balancing full-time ministry with lively family dynamics. Despite the busyness, he finds profound joy in nurturing the next generation. This segment highlights the essential balance between personal life and vocational ministry, emphasizing that joy can be found in the simplest, most personal moments.

Takeaway #2: Answering the Call to Serve

Chris recounts his early sense of calling to vocational ministry, which he initially resisted by pursuing a career in engineering. However, even during his time in engineering school, the call to ministry resurfaced in a profound way, leading him back to his true vocation. This journey reflects a powerful message: one's calling can be persistent and transformative, and sometimes, aligning with it might require detours and epiphanies.

Takeaway #3: The Importance of Support and Community

Drawing a vivid comparison with a basketball game, Kent asks Chris about his "home court advantage" in ministry. Chris credits his family and a "great cloud of witnesses," including former pastors and Sunday school teachers, as his primary cheerleaders. This underscores the vital role of communal support in sustaining a thriving ministry. Chris's legacy aspiration of instilling "joy, community, and love" within his congregation further reinforces this point.

Takeaway #4: Embracing Nature for Spiritual Rejuvenation

Chris finds solace and rejuvenation in nature, particularly in national parks like Teddy Roosevelt National Park. His love for nature is deeply tied to his spiritual renewal, showcasing that sometimes, the best way to recharge is by stepping away from daily stressors and immersing oneself in the tranquility of creation.

Takeaway #5: Lessons Learned: The Power of Saying No

One of the most profound lessons Chris shares is the importance of setting boundaries in ministry. He discusses the necessity of saying "no" to some things to say "yes" to what truly matters. This lesson, linked to preventing burnout and ensuring sustainable ministry, is a crucial takeaway for clergy and laypeople alike.

Join us in this heartfelt and insightful episode as Reverend Chris Stevens shares his journey and wisdom, offering a blend of humor, sincerity, and inspiration. Tune in to Pulpit Perspectives Podcast to hear more about how Chris is shaping his legacy at Nappanee United Methodist Church with joy, community, and love.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this heartfelt episode of the "Pulpit Perspectives" podcast, Host Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy welcomes Pastor Bette Thompson from the Jamestown United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana. As she celebrates her first anniversary with the church, Pastor Bette offers listeners a profound glimpse into her joys, struggles, and enduring faith journey in a spirited and illuminating discussion.

From the very outset, Pastor Bette’s vibrant spirit shines through. She finds her greatest joy in witnessing the congregation's attentive, smiling faces and engaging deeply with the children during Sunday services. By sharing these moments, she reveals a central takeaway for all to ponder: True joy in ministry comes from the connection and shared experiences with one’s congregation.

Pastor Bette's path to ministry wasn't straightforward. She recounts how her curiosity about the life of a pastor led her to vocational ministry, thanks in part to the mentorship she received at Mishawaka First United Methodist Church and a pivotal experience at Senior High Institute at Epworth Forest. This journey underscores a key takeaway: Mentorship and authentic encouragement within the local church are vital in nurturing the next generation of spiritual leaders.

In a more whimsical segment, Dr. Lundy asks Pastor Bette whom she would take for an imaginary axe-throwing session. Her choice, the Apostle Paul, provides insight into her admiration for his dogged determination and unwavering focus on Christ, even in adversity. This engaging analogy brings home another important takeaway: Drawing strength and inspiration from biblical figures can bolster and guide one's ministry today.

Pastor Bette also shares some personal wisdom about the need for patience in ministry, learned through the rigors of pastoral work. Recognizing and respecting the congregation's pace of transformation is essential— a lesson that came the hard way. This serves as a reflective takeaway: Patience and empathy are crucial in guiding a congregation through change and transformation.

Toward the end of the episode, when asked to encapsulate her ministry legacy in three words, Pastor Bette chooses "Love with Passion." She elaborates on this by emphasizing the importance of unconditional love—for others and oneself. In her words, loving fully, even in quiet moments when no one is watching, is central to her message. This provides a final and resonant takeaway: The essence of enduring ministry is to love with authenticity and passion, bringing forth God's love in every interaction.

Tune in to this inspiring episode for an enriching conversation that encourages both clergy and laity to find joy, patience, and passionate love in their spiritual journeys. Catch the full episode now and be uplifted by Pastor Bette's genuine warmth and insightful wisdom.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this insightful episode of "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast," host Kent Lundy sits down with Pastor Larry Chrisman from Coalbush United Methodist Church in the North District for a candid conversation about his journey into vocational ministry, the joy of witnessing faith-sharing within his congregation, and the experiences that have shaped his pastoral mission.

Pastor Larry Chrisman opens the discussion by sharing the profound joy he derives from watching his church members actively engage in faith outreach. He passionately describes how seeing parishioners invite others to church services and share their personal faith stories has been a transformative and uplifting experience for him. This joy fuels his commitment to fostering a community where faith is not just a private affair but a shared journey.

One of the pivotal moments in Pastor Larry’s life was his unexpected call to ministry. From an early age, Chrisman believed he was destined to become a priest, a conviction instilled by his mother. However, his life's trajectory took a significant turn when he met his wife during a retreat at the age of 15. This encounter led him to leave behind his aspirations of priesthood and eventually find a new calling within the United Methodist Church. Through a serendipitous invitation to play bass in a worship band, Pastor Larry’s path to ministry became clear, leading him to full-time pastoral work under the mentorship of Pastor Bob Vale.

Here are key takeaway points from the episode:

Faith in Action: Pastor Larry emphasizes the importance of church members being active in their faith, encouraging them to invite others and share their spiritual journeys. He believes that personal invitations can significantly impact church growth and community building.

Unexpected Callings: Highlighting his own journey, Pastor Larry illustrates how life’s unexpected twists can lead to profound vocational callings. His transition from aspiring Catholic priest to Methodist pastor underscores the mysterious and often surprising ways in which life unfolds.

Ministry and Family: Larry treasures the support and involvement of his family, particularly his wife, who is his loudest cheerleader and his barometer in sermon preparation. The tight-knit bond between their families enriches his pastoral life.

Community Engagement: His tenure at First United Methodist Church of South Bend introduced him to working with the homeless, expanding his understanding and involvement in community ministry. This experience was crucial in shaping his compassionate approach to serving others.

Vision for Growth: Pastor Larry's vision for Coalbush United Methodist Church is encapsulated in the mantra "We will grow." He firmly believes that through persistent outreach, personal faith-sharing, and fostering an inviting church environment, the congregation will continue to thrive.

Kent Lundy and Pastor Larry Chrisman explore themes of personal growth, community involvement, and the dynamic nature of spiritual callings, offering listeners a heartfelt and inspiring narrative that underscores the power of faith in action. Join them for this enriching dialogue and discover how everyday moments and interactions can lead to profound spiritual growth and community transformation.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this inspiring episode of "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast" host Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy sits down with Reverend Karen Koelsch, the senior pastor at Trinity on Jackson United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana. Celebrating her fourth year at the church, Karen shares her journey in ministry, her sources of joy, and invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way.

Karen’s journey into ministry began in her high school years, but it wasn't until she attended Ball State University that she fully embraced her calling. She talks about the pivotal influence of members of the Wesley Foundation and her church mentors, who guided her spiritual growth. A poignant memory she shares is when a close friend affirmed her call to ministry, saying, "It's about time the rest of us have known it for quite a while."

Throughout the episode, Karen touches on several critical aspects that come with being in vocational ministry, offering listeners insightful takeaways:

1 Persistent Joy Amidst Challenges: Karen exhibits a profound understanding that joy in ministry is not about the absence of challenges but rather about finding joy amidst them. She humorously recounts how her 8-month-old puppy can bring joy some days and test her patience on others. This perspective extends into her ministry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining joy even during trying times.

2 Relying on a Supportive Community: When asked who’s in the stands cheering for her, Karen highlights the importance of family, friends, and her covenant group. This powerful imagery reinforces how crucial a supportive community is for anyone in ministry. Those spiritual friends and family members become the bedrock during difficult times.

3 Faith and Perseverance: Karen shares her philosophy, “I can't screw it up so bad that God can't fix it,” demonstrating her resilient faith. This mindset allows her to keep pushing forward, knowing that God’s grace covers all trials and errors. For Karen, daily perseverance fueled by her relationship with Jesus is essential.

4 Ordinary Places Can Be Extraordinary: Reflecting on her profound experiences at Epworth Forest during her formative years, Karen beautifully illustrates how God often works in what appear to be ordinary places. These places become sacred spaces where God’s presence transforms and guides believers.

5 Core Principles of Ministry: Finally, Karen distills her ministry philosophy into three legacy words: try, follow, and rejoice. She believes in always trying, faithfully following Jesus, and never forgetting to rejoice in the good news. These principles guide her mission to make a lasting impact in Elkhart and beyond.

Join us for this heartfelt conversation as Reverend Karen Koelsch shares her wisdom, experiences, and the inspirations that fuel her commitment to ministry. Whether you’re in ministry or looking for spiritual encouragement, this episode offers abundant insights to inspire and uplift.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, hosted by Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy. This episode, recorded in the chancel of Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church, brings forth the profound insights and heartfelt experiences of Rev. John Hogsett, the senior pastor of Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church. Rev. Hogsett has been serving his congregation for over 12 years and shares his journey of faith, family, and ministry in this deep, reflective conversation.

John Hogsett's tenure at Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church began in 2012, marking his long-term dedication to his congregation. From the onset, Hogsett aimed to nurture his children through high school and college while also growing his ministry. Throughout his conversation with Kent, Hogsett illuminated several critical aspects of his life and ministry, providing listeners with valuable takeaways.

Takeaway Points:

1 The Power of a Personal Calling:

⦁ Experience of Divine Encounter:

One of the most captivating segments of the episode is Rev. Hogsett's vivid account of his divine calling to pastoral ministry. While studying psychology in college, Hogsett initially aimed to follow in his mother's path as a counselor. However, a profound and life-changing experience during communion at Galloway United Methodist Church redirected his trajectory. He recalls seeing Jesus sitting next to him, instilling a clear, unspoken call to pastoral ministry. This vision profoundly strengthened his faith and guided his decision to enter ministry despite his introverted nature.

2 Family as a Support System:

⦁ Cheer Block:

For Rev. Hogsett, family is at the heart of his support system. His wife, Mary Anne, and their four children have been his biggest fans and most ardent supporters. Hogsett emphasizes the importance of family in sustaining him through the ups and downs of ministry. Moreover, his extended family and parishioners have also played vital roles in providing encouragement and prayers, especially during challenging times.

3 Faith, Grace, and Hope as Legacy:

⦁ Defining Legacy:

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave at Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church, Hogsett succinctly articulated three words: faithful, grace, and hope. He reflects on his faithfulness to God’s calling, the grace he has tried to show and received from others, and the hope he consistently aims to convey to his congregation. These principles underpin his ministry and personal life.

4 Recharging Through Solitude and Scripture:

⦁ Introverted Reflections:

As an introvert, Rev. Hogsett finds rejuvenation in solitude and nature. He particularly enjoys walking, reading the Bible, and listening to music, especially classic rock and '80s Christian artists like DC Talk and Steven Curtis Chapman. His affinity for the Psalms, particularly Psalm 23, underscores his theological reflections and personal devotional practices.

5 Navigating Ministry Challenges:

⦁ Overcoming Introversion:

Despite being an introvert and facing initial fears of public speaking, Hogsett has embraced his pastoral role through perseverance and divine assurance. His journey reflects a transformative transition from reluctance to confidence, driven by a strong sense of calling and trust in God’s presence.

Tune in to this enriching episode to uncover how Rev. John Hogsett intertwines his personal experiences with his spiritual journey, offering lessons in faith, family, and ministry. This episode serves as a testament to the profound impact of divine calling and the unwavering presence of God in one’s life.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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Welcome to this heartwarming episode of the "Pulpit Perspectives" podcast, hosted by the ever-engaging Reverend Doctor Kent Lundy. In this episode, Kent visits Grace New Paris United Methodist Church in New Paris, Indiana, to chat with its dedicated pastor, Greg Way. Kent and Greg delve into a myriad of topics, offering listeners an enriching perspective on ministry, personal growth, and the joy of service.

Narrative Summary

Greg Way, a seasoned pastor now in his fourth year at Grace New Paris, welcomed Kent and the podcast listeners into his world with warmth and candidness. The conversation veered from his personal joys—like spending time with his granddaughters—to profound reflections on his calling to vocational ministry, which he felt as early as high school.

One of the most inspirational parts of the discussion was Greg’s depiction of his relationship with Jesus, humorously but sincerely imagining Jesus as a cheerleader at a figurative basketball game of life. This deeply personal and relatable imagery set the tone for the rest of the conversation.

Key Takeaways

1 Family as a Source of Joy: Greg shares that family, particularly his granddaughters, brings him immense joy. Having moved back to be closer to family after 30 years in Texas, he appreciates the newfound ability to experience family life more fully. This move has enriched his ministry by grounding him in the warmth and support of family.

2 Calling to Ministry: Greg’s journey to ministry began in high school but was initially delayed. Pressured by family expectations and financial constraints, he first pursued a technical career. Yet, the calling lingered, eventually drawing him back to serve in the church, a testament to the enduring nature of one’s true vocation.

3 Recharging in Nature: Greg recharges by spending serene mornings on his pontoon with his wife, reflecting on life and faith amidst the beauty of a lakeside sunrise. This practice highlights the importance of finding personal spaces and routines for spiritual and emotional renewal.

4 Shared Leadership: One lesson Greg learned the hard way was the necessity of letting go of responsibilities and empowering his congregation. He reflects on the growth that follows when church members take ownership of their roles and contribute to the community's spiritual life.

5 Legacy of Scripture, Missions, and Christlikeness: When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave at Grace New Paris, Greg aspires to be remembered for three core tenets: a dedication to scripture, a strong commitment to missions, and living a Christlike life. He believes these pillars are vital for a thriving, spiritually grounded community.

In closing, Kent acknowledges the significant progress made by Greg and his congregation, especially in recovering from the challenges posed by COVID-19. Pastor Greg Way’s journey and insights provide a refreshing and encouraging perspective for clergy and congregations alike, making this episode a must-listen for anyone invested in the vibrant life of church ministry.

For more insights and stories from the North District's faithful shepherds and their communities, follow Pulpit Perspectives on Facebook or visit the Indiana Annual Conference website at inumc.org.

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Welcome back to another inspiring and thought-provoking episode of the Pulpit Perspectives podcast. In this heartwarming episode, host Kent Lundy bring an incredible conversation with Reverend Ed McCutchan, the pastor at Lakeville United Methodist Church. Ed dives deep into the essence of his calling, his sources of joy, and the challenges he’s faced along his pastoral journey. Here are some key takeaways from this enlightening discussion:

1 The Journey to Ministry: Ed shares the story of how he initially felt called to ministry during high school but chose to ignore it for seven years. It was a mission trip to Juarez, Mexico, and subsequent biblical studies at the University of Evansville that rekindled and solidified his faith. With the support of mentors like Pastor Tim Ed embraced his vocation. This journey of self-discovery and spiritual deconstruction & reconstruction provides a blueprint for understanding divine calling amidst doubt and adversity.

2 Finding Joy in Ministry: Throughout the episode, Ed emphasizes how witnessing the success of various ministries fills him with joy. Particularly notable is the "Disciples and Dragons" group, a dynamic Dungeons & Dragons session that facilitates connection and joy among high schoolers. This highlights the importance of innovative and inclusive approaches in ministry, catering to varied interests to foster community and spiritual growth.

3 Support Systems and Recharge: Ed underscores the necessity of a robust support system for pastors, mentioning his wife, Rita, his parents, mentors, and seminary friends as his stalwarts. He discusses his unconventional yet effective recharge methods like weekly D&D sessions with pastor friends, reading, and crocheting. This sheds light on the significance of personal hobbies and communal support in maintaining mental and emotional wellness.

4 The Significance of Questions and Comfort: Among the three legacy words Ed elaborates on, "questions" and "comfortable" stand out. He promotes the idea that churches should be safe spaces for questioning faith and theology, encouraging growth through doubt. Furthermore, Ed aspires to create an environment where congregants can be their true selves, feeling accepted and loved without pretense. This inclusivity and authenticity are crucial in contemporary church dynamics.

5 Learning to Delegate and Collaborate: One of the toughest lessons Ed learned was realizing he can't do everything alone. Delegating tasks not only prevents burnout but also provides congregation members the opportunity to serve and fulfill their own callings. This speaks volumes about leadership in ministry being a collective endeavor rather than a solitary pursuit.

From understanding the importance of joy and creativity in ministry to emphasizing the need for community support and authenticity, Pastor Ed McCutchan’s insights are invaluable for anyone navigating the complexities of spiritual leadership. Whether you’re part of the clergy, a church member, or simply someone interested in spiritual growth, this episode is packed with wisdom and encouragement you won't want to miss!

For more information on the North District clergy and their congregations, visit www.inumc.org and join the conversation on their Facebook page. Stay connected and be encouraged by the work God is doing in the North District.

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In this enlightening episode of "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast," host Dr.Kent Lundy is joined by Pastor Randy Schrock from La Crosse United Methodist Church in La Crosse, Indiana. With over 26 years of ministry experience, Pastor Randy shares invaluable insights from his journey and discusses his roles both within his congregation and beyond. Here are three key takeaways from this episode that highlight Pastor Randy's inspiring perspective on ministry and service.

1. The Joy of Diverse Ministry Roles

Pastor Randy Schrock has served as a pastor at La Crosse United Methodist Church for 26 years and at Hannah United Methodist Church for nearly two years. He also dedicates a significant portion of his time to working with young people, particularly children with special needs in school settings. Randy's multifaceted role underscores the joy he finds in both preaching and directly impacting the lives of students who face significant challenges. His diverse ministry portfolio illustrates that serving God can take many forms, all of which are deeply fulfilling and vital.

2. The Importance of Encouragement and Support

One of the profound images Pastor Randy evokes is that of the "great cloud of witnesses" cheering him on in his ministry journey. He emphasizes the significance of encouragement from family, mentors, and the spiritual community. By likening his support system to a crowd in a basketball game, Randy paints a vivid picture of how feeling supported can drive one’s commitment to their calling. This takeaway highlights the crucial role that a supportive community plays in sustaining long-term ministry work.

3. The Centrality of Nurturing One's Soul

Pastor Randy stresses the importance of spiritual self-care for clergy. He describes his personal practices, such as daily silence, annual silent retreats, and engaging in activities like golf to recharge both physically and spiritually. Randy's emphasis on nurturing his relationship with God is a vital reminder for all in ministry about the necessity of self-care. This practice allows ministers to maintain their strength and passion, ensuring they can effectively serve their congregations.

Pastor Randy Schrock’s conversation with Dr. Kent Lundy offers rich insights into the joys and challenges of vocational ministry. His dedication to serving both his church and the broader community, his appreciation for encouragement, and his focus on spiritual self-care provide valuable lessons for anyone in or considering ministry work.

For more information on the North District clergy and their congregations, visit www.inumc.org and join the conversation on their Facebook page. Stay connected and be encouraged by the work God is doing in the North District.

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