http://www.umc.org/podcastsenReligion & SpiritualityCopyright United Methodist Communicationhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/f686bb6e1f4a78eeb4bb4ab8166f07f5.jpghttp://www.umc.org/podcastsFri, 21 Feb 2025 09:18:08 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist Communicationpodcast@umcom.orgLooking for a healthier spiritual life? UMC.org’s free 30-minute podcast, brought to you by United Methodist Communications offers interviews, advice, and resources, to help you get—and keep—your spirit in shape.cleanepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/serving-a-community-with-unity-resilience-and-love--64490613Continue reading "Serving a community with unity, resilience and love"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2661Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:00:58 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDiscover how love has unified a Los Angeles community through decades of civil unrest, gentrification and natural disasters when the Rev. Victor Cyrus-Franklin shares the story of Holman United Methodist Church, an historic church embodying its...Continue reading "Serving a community with unity, resilience and love"]]>2509cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/doodle-your-way-to-a-deeper-faith--64243542Continue reading "Doodle your way to a deeper faith"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2634Fri, 07 Feb 2025 09:00:10 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDiscover how to doodle your way to a divine connection during Lent or at any time when the Rev. Stephanie Dunn shares practical tips for integrating creativity into your spiritual journey from her new book, “Draw Close: A creative companion to Lent.”...Continue reading "Doodle your way to a deeper faith"]]>1623cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holy-week-a-tapestry-of-sacred-stories-in-the-final-days--63723640Continue reading "Holy Week: A tapestry of sacred stories in ‘The Final Days’"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2607Fri, 17 Jan 2025 09:00:45 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn a study for Lent from the Rev. Matt Rawle, “The Final Days: A Lenten Journey through the Gospels” explores the themes of justice, poverty, freedom and love woven throughout the sacred stories of Jesus’ last days on earth. More information and a...Continue reading "Holy Week: A tapestry of sacred stories in ‘The Final Days’"]]>1955cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-kristin-stoneking--63555556Continue reading "Meet Bishop Kristin Stoneking"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2584Fri, 03 Jan 2025 09:00:51 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAs a part of the "Meet a bishop" series, discover how Bishop Kristin Stoneking, the newly-elected bishop of the Mountain Sky Conference, lives into her call by striving to be an humble learner as she communicates the church's message in a changing...Continue reading "Meet Bishop Kristin Stoneking"]]>2149cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-christmas-is-blue-a-meditation-of-hope--63412030Continue reading "When Christmas is blue: A meditation of hope"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2571Fri, 20 Dec 2024 09:00:08 +0000United Methodist Communication‘Tis the season for all things merry and bright. Except when you’re feeling sad, lonely and perhaps grieving. Retired United Methodist pastor and current spiritual director Cindy Serio discusses why Christmas can be a challenging season for some folks...Continue reading "When Christmas is blue: A meditation of hope"]]>1252cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/transform-your-faith-from-believing-in-jesus-to-believing-like-jesus--63184667Continue reading "Transform your faith: From believing in Jesus to believing like Jesus"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2547Fri, 06 Dec 2024 09:00:53 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhat if, instead of having faith in Jesus, you had the faith of Jesus? Rev. Rebekah Simon-Peter, who has integrated the Jewish faith of her birth with her chosen identity as a United Methodist, urges all of us to embrace our inner divinity to live a...Continue reading "Transform your faith: From believing in Jesus to believing like Jesus"]]>2225cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-full-hearted-life-walking-in-wisdom-and-love--62753251Continue reading "‘A Full-Hearted Life': Walking in wisdom and love"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2527Fri, 15 Nov 2024 13:00:37 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAlways being joyful and finding meaning in life can be challenging for many of us.  In his new book, “A Full-Hearted Life: Following Jesus in This Secular Age,” Bishop Jake Owensby offers a guide for navigating our culture’s complexities by...Continue reading "‘A Full-Hearted Life': Walking in wisdom and love"]]>2582cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/training-wild-mustangs-a-guide-to-harmonious-living--62579363Continue reading "Training wild mustangs: A guide to harmonious living"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2510Fri, 01 Nov 2024 08:00:42 +0000United Methodist CommunicationClarity, consistency, communication and compassion. Learn how the 4 Cs that Rev. Calvin Yashie Hill used to train wild mustangs guides us in building authentic relationships across cultures. Today’s “Get Your Spirit in Shape” episode is the second in...Continue reading "Training wild mustangs: A guide to harmonious living"]]>2209cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sacred-journeys-weaving-navajo-spirituality-with-wesleyan-faith--62408387Continue reading "Sacred Journeys: Weaving Navajo spirituality with Wesleyan faith"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2485Fri, 18 Oct 2024 08:00:21 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhen the Rev. Calvin Yashie Hill discovered the Wesleyan Quadrilateral as a seminary student, the Navajo holy man knew he had found his denominational home. Discover how Wesleyan discipleship aligns with indigenous spirituality and how understanding...Continue reading "Sacred Journeys: Weaving Navajo spirituality with Wesleyan faith"]]>1600cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/diversity-in-the-umc-telling-our-stories-leads-to-unity--62228899Continue reading "Diversity in The UMC: Telling our stories leads to unity"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2463Fri, 04 Oct 2024 08:00:54 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAs we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, the Rev. Dr. Lydia Munoz reminds us of the importance of listening to one another’s stories and respecting one another’s journeys as we live into a diverse and inclusive church that encompasses a rich tapestry of...Continue reading "Diversity in The UMC: Telling our stories leads to unity"]]>1822cleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/embracing-diversity-in-a-world-where-racism-is-the-air-we-breathe--62041708Continue reading "Embracing Diversity in a World Where Racism is the "Air We Breathe""]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2446Fri, 20 Sep 2024 09:00:06 +0000United Methodist Communication"Racism is the air we breathe, the water we swim in," says the Rev.  Dr. Donnell FitzJeffries. In this conversation about the complexities of racism, and the challenges of honest conversations, we are encouraged to be "holy surprised" at how the...Continue reading "Embracing Diversity in a World Where Racism is the "Air We Breathe""]]>2265christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/faith-loss-and-the-fight-for-inclusion-a-mother-s-story--61281602Continue reading "Faith, loss and the fight for inclusion: A mother's story"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2408Fri, 06 Sep 2024 08:00:29 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn a poignant and powerful conversation about faith and loss, Julie Hilliard Wood, a lifelong United Methodist, shares her family’s story of how homophobia and rejection within the church had devastating consequences and reminds us of how critically...Continue reading "Faith, loss and the fight for inclusion: A mother's story"]]>2638christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/blessed-are-the-peacemakers--61051072Continue reading "Blessed are the peacemakers"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2379Fri, 16 Aug 2024 08:00:59 +0000United Methodist CommunicationEven as we believe our differences are our downfall, scripture tells us that diversity is the source of our beauty. The Rev. Beth Crissman discusses the Purple Church Initiative, a guide to harmony that challenges us to take up Jesus’ call to be...Continue reading "Blessed are the peacemakers"]]>2619christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rediscovering-joy-prioritizing-play-in-a-delight-deficient-world--60899466Continue reading "Rediscovering joy: Prioritizing play in a delight-deficient world"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2191Fri, 02 Aug 2024 08:00:01 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWe live in a delight-deficient world, one where we, as adults, are driven to be productive and where play is seldom prioritized. The Rev. Tyler Strange reminds us that soul care means living from the inside out and that by rediscovering joy, we can...Continue reading "Rediscovering joy: Prioritizing play in a delight-deficient world"]]>2426christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualityclean169fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/safeguarding-safe-spaces-a-um-firefighter-s-ministry--60828152Continue reading "Safeguarding safe spaces: A UM firefighter's ministry"]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1855Thu, 25 Jul 2024 18:23:14 +0000United Methodist CommunicationProtecting sacred spaces is a passion for Selena Ruth Smith. A firefighter and deaconess, the cradle United Methodist shares tips for how all of us can promote fire safety in our local congregations. More information and a full transcript of this...Continue reading "Safeguarding safe spaces: A UM firefighter's ministry"]]>1938christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/conservative-pastor-focuses-on-common-mission-amid-differences--60459762https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2643Fri, 21 Jun 2024 08:00:26 +0000United Methodist CommunicationA lifelong United Methodist and career minister who describes himself as "conservative" discusses how, rather than focus on differences within the denomination, he concentrates on the common mission to make disciples, a space that supports The UMC’s...1398christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/following-a-holy-nudge-from-self-doubt-to-self-discovery--60309113https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2626Fri, 07 Jun 2024 08:00:36 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDiscover how a “holy nudge” led Jordan Cramer on a journey from self-doubt to self-discovery while earning his Master of Divinity degree. The cradle United Methodist’s story of commitment and faith reveals God’s transformative power available to all...2150christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nurturing-mental-wellness-embracing-inclusivity-for-all--60068884https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2602Fri, 17 May 2024 08:00:04 +0000United Methodist CommunicationMental wellness is a spectrum where each of us resides. Creating inclusive and diverse spaces so all of us can feel safe regardless of where we fall on the spectrum is a primary focus at First United Methodist Church in Holland, Michigan. First UMC’s...1846christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/life-after-doom-a-guide-to-a-better-church-a-better-world--59793497https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2573Fri, 03 May 2024 08:00:36 +0000United Methodist Communication“Never waste a good crisis,” Winston Churchill was quoted as saying. In Brian McLaren’s new book, “Life After Doom,” the pastor, author and American theologian urges us to confront the multifaceted crisis facing the world, especially climate change,...2450christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-path-to-general-conference-one-delegate-s-story--59547336https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2508Fri, 19 Apr 2024 08:00:19 +0000United Methodist CommunicationJessica Vittorio is a lawyer by trade, someone who spends her workdays amid conflict and difficult settings. As a lay delegate at the upcoming General Conference, the lifelong United Methodist knows the business of the church also can be challenging...1864christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/god-s-gift-our-responsibility--59304575https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2484Fri, 05 Apr 2024 08:00:44 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn late 2023, the Rev. Emily Carroll from Shady Grove United Methodist Church in rural Louisiana, traveled to the United Arab Emirates to meet up with 100,000 attendees of the United Nations Climate Change Conference. Rev. Emily shares about her...2111christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/retirement-power-tools-rv-nomads--59054096https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2427Fri, 15 Mar 2024 08:00:43 +0000United Methodist CommunicationA nomadic life may conjure images of aimlessly traveling with no sense of destination. For lifelong United Methodists Tammy and Rodney Ripley, who have been NOMADS for several years, their lives are far from aimless and destinations are...2009christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/discovering-thin-places-how-to-encounter-god-in-everyday-life--58887058https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2388Fri, 01 Mar 2024 09:00:27 +0000United Methodist CommunicationThe phrase, "thin places," dates back to the ancient Celts who used it to describe those times when we feel closest to the God, as if the veil between the natural world and spiritual world becomes very thin. The Rev. Jane Ellen Nickell discusses how...1996christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/love-yourself-a-fresh-perspective-on-1-corinthians-13--58705038https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2369Fri, 16 Feb 2024 09:00:04 +0000United Methodist Communication1 Corinthians Chapter 13 often is referred to as the “love chapter.” Following the verses as a checklist of what love is, we might find that we’re better at loving others than we are at loving ourselves. But to practice the commandment that Jesus...1946christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-tom-berlin--58541581https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2343Fri, 02 Feb 2024 09:00:45 +0000United Methodist CommunicationThis “Get Your Spirit in Shape” episode is part of our “Meet a bishop” series. Bishop Tom Berlin, a lifelong United Methodist who grew up near Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, credits his local church with creating a strong sense of community in his...2198christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualityclean158fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wellness-in-2024-divine-inspiration-meets-wesleyan-wisdom--58363887https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2324Fri, 19 Jan 2024 09:00:44 +0000United Methodist CommunicationThe topic of health and wellness isn’t new to the 21st century. Numerous Scriptures encourage us to take care of ourselves, reminding us that our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. John Wesley, the founder of Methodism, wrote a book on the topic...1958christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gc-worship-leader-blends-diversity-and-ministry--58205786https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2303Fri, 05 Jan 2024 09:00:23 +0000United Methodist CommunicationServing as worship leader at The United Methodist Church’s General Conference is a feat that Raymond Trapp is embracing by offering music that both showcases the diversity of the church and also meets people at their point of need. Trapp shares...1576christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/united-methodists-combat-hiv-aids-with-compassion-and-action--57874782https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2287Fri, 01 Dec 2023 09:00:47 +0000United Methodist CommunicationHIV and AIDS aren’t in the news much anymore as the western world has gained access to life-saving medications and cases have decreased. Despite the good news, the worldwide HIV/AIDS pandemic still exists, with the World Health Organization reporting...2001christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/being-united-methodist-a-guide-and-celebration--57676897https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2239Fri, 17 Nov 2023 09:00:59 +0000United Methodist CommunicationLet’s celebrate being United Methodists! That single sentiment is the overarching message from a trio of United Methodist pastors – Andy Langford, Sally Langford, Ann Langford Duncan – whose new book, titled “Being United Methodist Christians,”...2098christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/empathy-the-key-to-showing-god-s-love-in-a-complex-world--57500787https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2186Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:00:56 +0000United Methodist CommunicationNavigating through the complexities of current conflicts, like the one between Israel and Hamas, can be challenging. The Rev. Dr. Ron Bell discusses how empathy, meaningful action and making room to see the humanity of others can help us rise above...2174christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unwrapping-the-sights-and-sounds-of-christmas-with-matt-rawle--57318143https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2157Fri, 20 Oct 2023 08:00:08 +0000United Methodist CommunicationChristmastime is filled with sights, sounds, tastes and smells. United Methodist minister and author Matt Rawle shares how our sensory experiences of Christmas can deepen our connection to the season’s narrative and help us create a more meaningful...2980christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/personal-discipleship-the-move-from-passive-to-active--57127000https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2142Fri, 06 Oct 2023 20:17:35 +0000United Methodist CommunicationPersonal discipleship is more than attending Sunday School and reading the Bible. The Rev. Stacey Harwell-Dye shares her thoughts on how following Jesus can move us into action in our churches and our communities. Today’s episode, which marks the...1744christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/moving-beyond-limited-words-for-a-limitless-god--56809572https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2120Fri, 15 Sep 2023 08:00:53 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWords matter – even the ones we use when we talk about God – or perhaps especially the ones we use to talk about God. Meg Lassiat from The United Methodist Church’s General Commission on the Status and Role of Women discusses how words can limit or...1508christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/quests-community-and-faith-online-gaming-with-a-mission--56658598https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2098Fri, 01 Sep 2023 08:00:56 +0000United Methodist CommunicationSharing our faith where people commonly gather is a concept as old as John Wesley. The Rev. Dr. Adam Sowder believes, if Wesley were alive today, the founder of Methodism definitely would be gaming on Twitch, chatting on Discord and streaming his...2570christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/confronting-trauma-building-resilience--56510767https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2087Fri, 18 Aug 2023 08:00:04 +0000United Methodist CommunicationTrauma is universal and trauma, especially unaddressed, can affect how we engage with one another both inside and outside of our church communities. The Rev. Christy Miller White discusses how our behaviors can bring healing and offers practical tips...1890christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/courageous-conversations-why-kindness-beats-niceness--56373063https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2055Fri, 04 Aug 2023 08:00:21 +0000United Methodist CommunicationCourageous conversations have nothing to do with being nice and everything to do with being kind, gentle and loving. The Rev. Dr. Scott Hughes of The United Methodist Church’s Discipleship Ministries asserts that engaging in structured dialogues of...1922christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-poetic-journey-to-healing-with-stephon-void--56174953https://podcast.umc.org/?p=2023Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:00:31 +0000United Methodist CommunicationCrying out in grief. Thanking God for mercy. Asking for strength. Like a psalmist, Stephon Void used poetry to express how he felt as he navigated his father’s terminal cancer diagnosis, as well as his own chronic health concerns. Stephon’s new book,...1759christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-cedrick-bridgeforth--56024278https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1984Fri, 07 Jul 2023 08:00:24 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhen Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth was 9 year old, he prayed aloud at his small Alabama church, resulting in a standing ovation. His grandma then squeezed his cheeks and proclaimed that her grandson would preach one day. Though he was intent on becoming...2349christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anti-racism-work-intentional-learning-intentional-action-with-andrea-gauldin-rubio--54456454https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1921Fri, 16 Jun 2023 07:00:27 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist Andrea Gauldin-Rubio, a white woman who grew up in the rural south, shares about examining biases and recognizing white privilege, while acknowledging that anti-racism work should be ongoing and focused as much on action as on...1861christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/understanding-justice-through-a-faith-lens-with-viafaith-mccullough--54116120https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1919Fri, 02 Jun 2023 07:00:55 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAt a young age, ViaFaith McCullough learned that people are more than their circumstances. After spending a summer as a college intern with The United Methodist Church’s General Board of Church and Society, this cradle United Methodist discovered a...1521christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-depression-to-joy-one-man-s-story-with-pete-wright--53927208https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1885Fri, 19 May 2023 07:01:02 +0000United Methodist CommunicationPeople have told Pete Wright that, from the outside, his life looked trouble-free: loving wife and kids, fulfilling career, all the signs of success. On the inside, Pete has struggled for years with chronic depression. He shares the story of his...1797christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-healing-power-of-god-s-creation-with-beth-jones--53748719https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1869Fri, 05 May 2023 07:00:26 +0000United Methodist CommunicationMany of us seek God in the natural world, whether we backpack in the mountains, walk through a forest or relax by a lake. The Rev. Beth Jones shares how the discipline of slowing down and noticing God's creation has the ability to heal us physically,...1841christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-david-wilson--53604420https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1842Fri, 21 Apr 2023 06:00:55 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn this special “Meet a bishop” episode of “Get Your Spirit in Shape,” we meet the Rev. David Wilson who recently made history as the first Native American to be elected as bishop of The UMC. Bishop Wilson tells us how growing up in The UMC prepared...2187christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jesus-path-from-pain-to-triumph-a-guided-meditation-with-cindy-serio--53468559https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1823Fri, 07 Apr 2023 06:00:27 +0000United Methodist CommunicationPause for a few quiet moments to ponder the events of Jesus' final hours on earth through the contemplative spiritual discipline of guided meditation. The Rev. Cindy Serio, a retired United Methodist pastor and current spiritual director, leads us in...1413christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/grief-and-compassion-for-such-a-time-as-this-with-linda-holbrook--53233161https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1789Fri, 17 Mar 2023 08:00:24 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodists may feel grief as the denomination experiences disaffiliations. A spiritual director shares tips for healing while explaining why compassion is needed during this fragile time.1308christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-love-in-the-classroom-and-beyond-with-tiffany-anderson--53081117https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1765Fri, 03 Mar 2023 09:00:59 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn this episode, a school superintendent who was recognized by former President Obama, honored at the Oscars, and is a candidate to be a UMC deacon, shares where she finds joy, including how living out the Gospel for her includes sitting on the floor...1541christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-delores-williamston--52892461https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1723Fri, 17 Feb 2023 09:00:25 +0000United Methodist CommunicationBishop Delores (Dee) Williamston, the first Black woman elected as bishop in The UMC's South Central Jurisdiction, is a grandmother who discovered her call to ministry at a skating rink while supervising a group of 50 kids from her local church. More...1700christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-curious-path-to-better-listening-with-luke-edwards--52892658https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1687Fri, 03 Feb 2023 09:00:51 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist pastor Luke Edwards discusses how to develop listening as a spiritual discipline, a practice that when rooted in curiosity and love can transform our communities, our churches and our faith. More info and a full transcript are...1546christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spiritual-trauma-gaining-insight-showing-love-with-christy-holden-derrick-scott-iii--52892716https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1661Fri, 20 Jan 2023 09:00:51 +0000United Methodist CommunicationSpiritual trauma happens, even in the church. Rev. Christy Holden and Derrick Scott III discuss why some have experienced spiritual pain that may make the church feel unsafe. They share ways we can prevent harm and encourage healing as conduits of...2461christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pilgrimage-a-path-to-getting-unstuck-with-steve-manskar-and-chris-heckert--52892693https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1639Fri, 06 Jan 2023 09:00:19 +0000United Methodist CommunicationPilgrimages are not tourism. Rather, these holy treks have the power to change lives. The Rev. Steven Manskar and the Rev. Chris Heckert discuss their roles as both pilgrimage leaders and pilgrims on "Get Your Spirit in Shape." Learn more about this...2586christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-christmas-is-blue-a-guided-meditation-with-cindy-serio--52892252https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1623Fri, 16 Dec 2022 09:00:06 +0000United Methodist Communication‘Tis the season for all things merry and bright. Except when you’re feeling sad, lonely and perhaps grieving. Retired United Methodist pastor Cindy Serio discusses why Christmas can be a challenging season for some folks and shares a guided meditation...1310christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/stories-behind-the-songs-of-charles-wesley-with-paul-chilcote--52892550https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1605Fri, 02 Dec 2022 09:00:36 +0000United Methodist Communication“Hark, the Herald Angels Sing” is indisputably one of the most popular Christmas hymns of all time. When Charles Wesley penned the lyrics, however, the opening line read, “Hark, how all the welkens ring!” World-renowned Wesley scholar Paul Chilcote...2012christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-conversation-about-words-we-use-and-misuse-with-enger-muteteke--52892304https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1597Fri, 18 Nov 2022 09:00:17 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhat is gaslighting? What is cultural bias? What is implicit bias? We hear these terms in the news, on social media, perhaps even at church. Dr. Enger Muteteke who works with The UMC’s General Commission on Religion and Race, shares how understanding...1967christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/shut-down-your-inner-critic-find-healing-with-andrew-lang--52892319https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1583Fri, 04 Nov 2022 08:00:14 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWe all have an inner critic, that voice in our heads that is sometimes quite loud telling us we are not good enough, we are not in control and even that we are not lovable. In his new book, “Unmasking the Inner Critic: Lessons for Living an...2109christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/empowering-families-by-reimagining-missions-with-laura-horvath--52892575https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1572Fri, 21 Oct 2022 08:00:04 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAfter more than 20 trips to Africa to work primarily with vulnerable children who often lived in orphanages, Laura Horvath and her work with Healing Children Worldwide, has determined that centuries’ old wisdom about caring for underserved areas may...1436christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-enduring-influence-of-charles-wesley-with-paul-chilcote--52892727https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1391Fri, 07 Oct 2022 08:00:25 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhen it comes to the Brothers Wesley, most people know John as the preacher and Charles as the hymn writer. What is less recognized, however, is how Charles, the younger of the two, was a trailblazer, often forging ahead of his brother. The Rev. Dr....2322christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/umc-campus-ministries-a-place-to-belong-with-kyla-smith--52892573https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1376Fri, 16 Sep 2022 08:00:00 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAs a freshman at Memphis State University, Kyla Smith was shy and introverted when she joined her college’s Wesley Foundation chapter. Two years later, Kyla has been transformed into a leader who now believes she can take on anything, as evidenced by...1050christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/i-am-jesus-revealed-in-the-gospel-of-john-with-matt-rawle--52892603https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1336Fri, 02 Sep 2022 08:00:24 +0000United Methodist CommunicationSeven times in the Gospel of John, Jesus describes himself in ‘I am' statements: I am the light of the world, I am the bread of life, and others. In this episode, we talk with the Rev. Matt Rawle about his new book ‘Jesus Revealed' and how the ‘I am'...2400christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wesleys-enduring-message-for-the-umc-with-ashley-boggan--52892329https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1327Fri, 19 Aug 2022 08:00:27 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn the mid-1700s, John and Charles Wesley were known as radical dissidents who had a lot to say about the church, faith and following God. The UMC’s General Commission of Archives and History’s chief executive, Dr. Ashley Boggan, shares why the...1789christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/encouraging-men-to-live-boldly-with-greg-arnold--52892572https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1309Fri, 05 Aug 2022 08:00:21 +0000United Methodist CommunicationHelping men live a bold life of faith by overcoming isolation and anxiety is a passion for the chief executive of United Methodist Men.2072christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/re-listen-meet-bishop-thomas-bickerton--52892445https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1302Fri, 22 Jul 2022 08:00:08 +0000United Methodist CommunicationIn this re-release of a 2020 ‘Meet a Bishop' episode  of Get Your Spirit in Shape, Bishop Thomas Bickerton of the New York Episcopal Area and now President of the Council of Bishops talks about his knowledge of glass, his interest in every person’s...1392christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-spiritual-antidote-to-injustice-with-leah-wandera--52892678https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1296Sun, 10 Jul 2022 17:56:39 +0000United Methodist CommunicationLeah Wandera, the first United Women in Faith deaconess in Africa, is working to bridge The United Methodist Church and the global community through her work in social justice advocacy and public health.2400christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-dementia-a-guide-for-loved-ones-with-elizabeth-schulman--52892571https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1287Fri, 24 Jun 2022 08:00:23 +0000United Methodist CommunicationLoneliness, grief, anger, exhaustion and a longing for peace. United Methodist pastor and author Elizabeth Shulman says these emotions frequently surround families dealing with dementia. In her new book, Finding Sanctuary in the Midst of Alzheimer's:...1471christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/find-wholeness-and-balance-with-the-enneagram-with-suzanne-stabile--52892456https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1278Fri, 10 Jun 2022 08:00:08 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist and Enneagram master Suzanne Stabile shares how she uses the Enneagram to feel closer to God and how it can help us achieve more balance and wholeness in our daily lives.2874christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-need-to-be-a-well-informed-church-with-tim-tanton--52892625https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1271Fri, 27 May 2022 08:00:14 +0000United Methodist CommunicationPeople of faith cannot be effective and relevant in the world today if they are not well informed, says Tim Tanton, who oversees UM News. On today’s episode of “Get Your Spirit in Shape,” Tim shares details about the news agency of The United...1946christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/silent-no-more-one-pastor-shares-mental-health-struggles-with-vance-lowe--52892322https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1260Fri, 13 May 2022 08:00:13 +0000United Methodist CommunicationFor more than 38 years, the Rev. Vance Lowe was a successful United Methodist minister, with churches growing and thriving under his leadership. What his congregations and those closest to him did not know was that Vance daily struggled with mental...1621christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/earthkeepers-loving-creation-across-the-generations-with-cary-and-caleb-james--52892269https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1247Fri, 29 Apr 2022 08:00:50 +0000United Methodist CommunicationNo plastic for 30 days! That’s the challenge the Rev. Cary James Jr. and his 16-year-old son, Caleb, recently undertook in support of their roles as EarthKeepers, trained by the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church, to...1654christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jesus-path-from-pain-to-triumph-a-guided-meditation-with-cindy-serio--52892469https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1227Thu, 14 Apr 2022 17:59:01 +0000United Methodist CommunicationYou are invited to ponder the events of Jesus' final hours on earth through the contemplative spiritual discipline of guided meditation. The Rev. Cindy Serio, a retired United Methodist pastor and current spiritual director, leads us through the...1265christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/finding-humor-in-holy-moments-with-robert-darden--52892539https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1215Fri, 01 Apr 2022 08:00:55 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDid Jesus laugh? Did he find humor with his friend, the disciples, as they moved through the region? Robert Darden, Baylor University professor and religious humorist, emphatically says, "Absolutely!" Learn how humor can be a part of your faith...1331christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/e-stanley-jones-gandhi-s-friend-king-s-mentor-with-john-harnish--52892478https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1201Fri, 18 Mar 2022 08:00:04 +0000United Methodist CommunicationTime Magazine called Dr. E. Stanley Jones the most important missionary of the 20th century. Commissioned by the Board of Missions of the Methodist Episcopal Board in 1907, Jones traveled the world, befriending Mahatma Gandhi and inspiring the Rev....1600christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/performance-addicted-no-more-learning-to-be-with-juanita-rasmus--52892240https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1185Fri, 04 Mar 2022 09:00:58 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist pastor and author Juanita Campbell Rasmus, a self-professed performance-addicted perfectionist, shares her story of hitting bottom, an event that led her on a healing journey of learning to be still and truly coming to know God....2432christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pursuit-to-make-prayer-personal-with-angela-chadwick--52892213https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1168Fri, 18 Feb 2022 09:00:33 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAngela Chadwick, Global Director of Prayer for Alpha International, talks with us about prayer, what it looks like day in and day out, and how prayer is that place where God becomes personal when we show up as our authentic selves.1462christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-vaccines-available-for-all-with-kathleen-griffith-david-boan--52892613https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1158Thu, 03 Feb 2022 21:00:27 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDr. David Boan, a member of First United Methodist Church of Boise, Idaho, and Kathleen Griffith, a veteran global heath leader with the General Board of Global Ministries, discuss Love Beyond Borders, an equitable vaccine distribution campaign.1814christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-respect-is-greater-than-conflict-with-david-field--52892333https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1150Fri, 21 Jan 2022 08:00:38 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDr. David Field, Ecumenical Staff Officer for Faith & Order and Theological Dialogue for The United Methodist Church’s Council of Bishops, shares thoughts on how we, as Christians, might follow the complex command to love – and respect – all...1849christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/give-love-radical-hospitality-with-john-calhoun--52892296https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1140Fri, 07 Jan 2022 15:53:13 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist missionary the Rev. John Calhoun, who pastors the English-Speaking United Methodist Church of Vienna (ESUMC), shares how radical hospitality with a multicultural population is playing an important role in congregations in Austria....1362christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/give-love-keeping-kids-safe-in-honduras-with-desiree-segura-april--52892501https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1135Thu, 16 Dec 2021 17:52:02 +0000United Methodist CommunicationDesiree Segura-April and her husband are United Methodist missionaries serving throughout Latin America and the Caribbean and currently living in Honduras. As a Resource Person for Children at Risk Ministries, Desiree is passionate about creating safe...1494christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/give-love-serving-liberia-s-children-with-helen-roberts-evans--52892518https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1130Sat, 11 Dec 2021 15:00:34 +0000United Methodist CommunicationHelen Roberts-Evans grew up in the United States, in Chicago. But returning to the continent of Africa, to Liberia, where she was born, was a lifelong dream. Today, Helen is a United Methodist missionary, serving in Liberia. In this special Advent...2173christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/giving-gratitude-generosity-with-linda-bruner--52892325https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1114Mon, 29 Nov 2021 17:20:56 +0000United Methodist CommunicationLinda Bruner is a cradle Methodist, raised in the church as a preacher’s kid. Today, Linda works for the global denomination as senior manager of connectional giving and marketing for United Methodist Communications. We talk with Linda about her...1751christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/food-faith-finding-connections-with-annette-spence--52892321https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1096Fri, 12 Nov 2021 14:36:14 +0000United Methodist CommunicationFood blogger and ministry leader Annette Spence talks about using food to help share God’s love and connect with our neighbors—a practice Jesus knew well. For more than 20 years, Annette has told the stories of the Holston Conference of The United...1585christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-messy-reality-of-raising-kids-with-kim-meyers--52892617https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1075Fri, 29 Oct 2021 07:00:09 +0000United Methodist CommunicationThinking about what she had not read in parenting books was the springboard for the Rev. Kim Meyers when she started writing Parenting with Perspective. Kim’s new book is a candid look at the various stages of child rearing, from bringing home our...1492christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/finding-faith-in-the-story-of-the-grinch-with-matt-rawle--52892669https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1065Wed, 13 Oct 2021 20:14:46 +0000United Methodist CommunicationChristmas 2020 felt like it was stolen. Many of the things we enjoy most about the season—travel, parties, exchanging cookies, and singing Christmas carols/hymns in a filled sanctuary—were not the same. It made us feel a bit more Grinchy than we may...1888christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-minerva-carcano--52892589https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1046Thu, 30 Sep 2021 09:00:17 +0000United Methodist CommunicationFor our 100th episode, we talk with Bishop Minerva Carcaño. Not only is she the current bishop of the San Francisco Episcopal Area, she is the first Hispanic woman appointed as a district superintendent in the continental United States and the first...1623christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/work-innovation-and-doing-greater-things-with-len-wilson--52892670https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1035Thu, 23 Sep 2021 20:03:35 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAs Jesus is preparing his disciples for when he will no longer be with them in the flesh, he tells them how those who believe in him will continue his work. But he doesn’t leave it there. He then says, “and they will do even greater things than these”...1779christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/meet-bishop-patrick-streiff--46495038In addition to talking about his amazing work as a bishop, in this conversation from Zurich, Switzerland, we talk about his early life in Bern, the beginnings his faith development, his love of study and skiing, and his doctoral thesis on early Methodist John William Fletcher.
It is such a privilege to meet Bishop Patrick Streiff.]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1012Thu, 09 Sep 2021 16:31:57 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhile some bishops in the United States serve episcopal areas that include three or four states, Bishop Patrick Streiff serves one that includes 14 countries. The Central and Southern Europe Episcopal Area consists of 12 countries in Europe and two in...In addition to talking about his amazing work as a bishop, in this conversation from Zurich, Switzerland, we talk about his early life in Bern, the beginnings his faith development, his love of study and skiing, and his doctoral thesis on early Methodist John William Fletcher.
It is such a privilege to meet Bishop Patrick Streiff.]]>1471christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wild-and-holy-women-with-sherry-cothran--46495039In this conversation, Crystal and Sherry talk about how resurrecting these stories may encourage us to untame certain parts of who we are.]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=1006Fri, 27 Aug 2021 07:00:30 +0000United Methodist CommunicationUnited Methodist pastor and author the Rev. Sherry Cothran invites us to take a closer look at the stories of some of the wild and holy women of the Bible. While we may be familiar with Esther, Rahab and others, Cothran teaches that their lives and...In this conversation, Crystal and Sherry talk about how resurrecting these stories may encourage us to untame certain parts of who we are.]]>1695christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/following-god-s-direction-with-donna-fowler-marchant--43939199In this conversation, the Rev. Donna Fowler-Marchant, author of a new book titled, Mothers in Israel: Methodist Beginnings Through the Eyes of Women, introduces us to some of the amazing women of the early Methodist movement. Each chose to follow God, even when the tradition of the day (and many of the men) were saying what they were doing was wrong.
You may have heard about the bold strength of Susanna Wesley, mother of John and Charles. But do you know about Mary Bosanquet Fletcher? How about Sarah Lawrence and Mary Taft? Learn from their example of the conviction to follow where God leads.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=895Wed, 17 Mar 2021 21:11:12 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWhen faced with resistance, we sometimes back down, even when we believe we are doing what God has created us to do. In this conversation, the Rev. Donna Fowler-Marchant, author of a new book titled, Mothers in Israel: Methodist Beginnings Through the...In this conversation, the Rev. Donna Fowler-Marchant, author of a new book titled, Mothers in Israel: Methodist Beginnings Through the Eyes of Women, introduces us to some of the amazing women of the early Methodist movement. Each chose to follow God, even when the tradition of the day (and many of the men) were saying what they were doing was wrong.
You may have heard about the bold strength of Susanna Wesley, mother of John and Charles. But do you know about Mary Bosanquet Fletcher? How about Sarah Lawrence and Mary Taft? Learn from their example of the conviction to follow where God leads.]]>1961christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/race-racism-and-the-umc-with-rudy-rasmus-and-jevon-caldwell-gross--43545355The Rev. Rudy Rasmus, senior pastor of St. Johns United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas, and the Rev. Jevon Caldwell-Gross, teaching pastor at St Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, talk with Joe about the state of the Church, our politics and societal ills. Along the way, they encourage us to look deeply at our congregations and communities.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=881Fri, 19 Feb 2021 15:30:03 +0000United Methodist CommunicationTwo of the authors of I’m Black. I’m Christian. I’m Methodist. talk about the importance of confronting racism both within the Church and throughout society. They share stories of their experiences as United Methodist pastors and differences they have...The Rev. Rudy Rasmus, senior pastor of St. Johns United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas, and the Rev. Jevon Caldwell-Gross, teaching pastor at St Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Indiana, talk with Joe about the state of the Church, our politics and societal ills. Along the way, they encourage us to look deeply at our congregations and communities.]]>2079christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holy-spirit-transforming-the-ordinary-with-jack-levison--43196108Jack Levison, Professor of Old Testament Interpretation at Perkins School of Theology and the author of several books, addresses many of these issues and helps us to understand how the Holy Spirit infuses our ordinary days with the extraordinary presence of God.
Jack talks specifically about Pentecost, Jesus’s baptism, and the way the Spirit works in our lives today.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=869Fri, 29 Jan 2021 09:03:32 +0000United Methodist CommunicationMany of us have questions about the Holy Spirit. We’ve heard things and assume others, but we’re unsure if any of them are true. Jack Levison, Professor of Old Testament Interpretation at Perkins School of Theology and the author of several books,...Jack Levison, Professor of Old Testament Interpretation at Perkins School of Theology and the author of several books, addresses many of these issues and helps us to understand how the Holy Spirit infuses our ordinary days with the extraordinary presence of God.
Jack talks specifically about Pentecost, Jesus’s baptism, and the way the Spirit works in our lives today.]]>1812christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/holistic-health-around-the-world-with-kathleen-griffith--42951939“When one is unwell, one’s whole being is affected,” explains the interim Global Health Team Lead and the Program Manager of Maternal, Newborn and Child Health with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church. “We are such integrated beings.”
Griffith also shares how the Abundant Health Initiative of the UMC’s audacious goal of reaching one million children with lifesaving intervention was reached in the fall of 2020.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=863Fri, 15 Jan 2021 14:05:40 +0000United Methodist CommunicationAs many focus on their health in a new year, Kathleen Griffith reminds us to have a holistic approach—body, mind and spirit. “When one is unwell, one’s whole being is affected,” explains the interim Global Health Team Lead and the Program Manager of...“When one is unwell, one’s whole being is affected,” explains the interim Global Health Team Lead and the Program Manager of Maternal, Newborn and Child Health with the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church. “We are such integrated beings.”
Griffith also shares how the Abundant Health Initiative of the UMC’s audacious goal of reaching one million children with lifesaving intervention was reached in the fall of 2020.]]>1789christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/being-present-give-love-2020-with-mark-deirdre-zimmerman--42567291In this conversation, we talk about their life as a missionary couple, parenting, and how being fully present to patients, students, colleagues, and to God, helps them in their work of sharing the love of Jesus by caring for the physical needs of others.
Hear the rest of our 2020 Give Love missionary episodes.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=844Fri, 18 Dec 2020 07:43:06 +0000United Methodist CommunicationOur final Give Love: Advent 2020 conversation is with Mark and Deirdre Zimmerman, United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries missionaries serving in Kathmandu, Nepal. Mark is a physician and Deirdre a nutritionist who care for people at Patan...In this conversation, we talk about their life as a missionary couple, parenting, and how being fully present to patients, students, colleagues, and to God, helps them in their work of sharing the love of Jesus by caring for the physical needs of others.
Hear the rest of our 2020 Give Love missionary episodes.]]>1382christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/providing-nutrition-give-love-2020-with-temba-nkomozepi--42567299Hear the rest of our 2020 Give Love missionary episodes.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=842Fri, 11 Dec 2020 07:49:21 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWe continue our Advent 2020 missionary conversations with Temba Nkomozepi, a United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries missionary serving as an agriculturalist for the Mujila Falls Agriculture Center in Kanyama, Zambia. Temba helps provide...Hear the rest of our 2020 Give Love missionary episodes.]]>1105christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/making-connections-give-love-2020-with-lily-maijama-a--42309959He trains young people in the dangers of the internet and might organize a football match (what we in the U.S. call soccer) just to meet people and invite them into a small group. A passion for connecting people to one another and to Jesus Christ, drives him. Hear how he began to understand his skills for church leadership and how he uses them to reach out to those who are not yet part of the church.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=840Fri, 04 Dec 2020 08:00:56 +0000United Methodist CommunicationOur second missionary conversation for Advent 2020 is with Lily Maijama'a, a Global Missions Fellow with the General Board of Global Ministries serving the West Africa Initiative of Liberia where he serves as a project manager. But Lily's service goes...He trains young people in the dangers of the internet and might organize a football match (what we in the U.S. call soccer) just to meet people and invite them into a small group. A passion for connecting people to one another and to Jesus Christ, drives him. Hear how he began to understand his skills for church leadership and how he uses them to reach out to those who are not yet part of the church.]]>930christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/activated-faith-give-love-2020-with-ben-lasley--42195285Growing up in North Carolina, Ben was active in his United Methodist church where he developed his relationship with Jesus Christ. In Philadelphia, he serves as a community organizer, coordinating a meal service for those experiencing homelessness and overseeing a community garden.
Ben's enthusiasm for his work is contagious. He says it helped "activate my faith." It isn't always easy. There are many challenges, but when we are willing, God works in and through us.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=831Fri, 27 Nov 2020 08:00:34 +0000United Methodist CommunicationWe begin our missionary conversations for Advent 2020 by meeting Ben Lasley, a Global Missions Fellow with the General Board of Global Ministries serving Arch Street United Methodist Church in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Growing up in North Carolina,...Growing up in North Carolina, Ben was active in his United Methodist church where he developed his relationship with Jesus Christ. In Philadelphia, he serves as a community organizer, coordinating a meal service for those experiencing homelessness and overseeing a community garden.
Ben's enthusiasm for his work is contagious. He says it helped "activate my faith." It isn't always easy. There are many challenges, but when we are willing, God works in and through us.]]>951christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/education-spiritual-formation-with-bryce-hillhouse--41729418In this conversation, Bryce shares the value of education, the importance of spiritual formation, and the challenges Lydia Patterson has overcome at the U.S. – Mexico border and through the coronavirus pandemic.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=814Fri, 30 Oct 2020 14:27:08 +0000United Methodist CommunicationBryce Hillhouse knows the value of education. He worked hard and made his own path. Today, he serves as Development Coordinator at the Lydia Patterson Institute a United Methodist-related and church-supported middle and high school in El Paso, Texas....In this conversation, Bryce shares the value of education, the importance of spiritual formation, and the challenges Lydia Patterson has overcome at the U.S. – Mexico border and through the coronavirus pandemic.]]>1439christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/technology-and-missions-with-jenny-phillips--41488369So when energy is unreliable or unavailable, our missionaries and disaster relief teams turn to innovative technologies to get the job done.
The Rev. Jenny Phillips, Senior Technical Advisor for Environmental Sustainability at United Methodist Global Ministries, introduces us to some those cool technological advances and shares about the importance of care for creation as we care for others.]]>http://podcast.umc.org/?p=802Fri, 16 Oct 2020 06:00:52 +0000United Methodist CommunicationEnergy is one of those things many of us can take for granted. We flip a switch and bring light to a darkened room. Outlets are plentiful where we charge our phones or power a tool. We have refrigerators that keep our food fresh and water heaters to...So when energy is unreliable or unavailable, our missionaries and disaster relief teams turn to innovative technologies to get the job done.
The Rev. Jenny Phillips, Senior Technical Advisor for Environmental Sustainability at United Methodist Global Ministries, introduces us to some those cool technological advances and shares about the importance of care for creation as we care for others.]]>1484christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/politics-of-compassion-with-mark-feldmeir--40832945As the U.S. presidential election nears, we appear to be a divided nation—not only in politics but also in the church. In his new book, A House Divided: Engaging the Issues through the Politics of Compassion, United Methodist pastor, Feldmeir writes, “Americans are not nearly as polarized in their actual convictions as the current political rhetoric suggests.”
In his book, and in this conversation, he encourages and equips us to have constructive conversations on challenging topics like climate change, immigration, and racism. By starting from where we already agree, we can become more comfortable with welcoming differing opinions to the table.]]>https://podcast.umc.org/?p=759Fri, 04 Sep 2020 07:36:16 +0000United Methodist Communication“The length and width of our table determines the depth and breadth of our compassion,” teaches the Rev. Mark Feldmeir. “If we can get folks to the table and stay there, even in the difficult conversations, that compassion grows deeper and wider and...As the U.S. presidential election nears, we appear to be a divided nation—not only in politics but also in the church. In his new book, A House Divided: Engaging the Issues through the Politics of Compassion, United Methodist pastor, Feldmeir writes, “Americans are not nearly as polarized in their actual convictions as the current political rhetoric suggests.”
In his book, and in this conversation, he encourages and equips us to have constructive conversations on challenging topics like climate change, immigration, and racism. By starting from where we already agree, we can become more comfortable with welcoming differing opinions to the table.]]>1554christian,god,health,jesus,religion,spiritualitycleanfull