Podcast

In this episode we discuss the 'elephants' of church renewal. Rev. Dr. Elaine May discusses her work in church renewal and leadership development within the Christian Reformed Church in North America. She highlights the importance of shifting from ownership to stewardship, aligning church ministry with God's mission, and the challenges and blessings of navigating change and discernment in congregational contexts.

Mark Vanderwees from Diaconal Ministries Canada joins us to talk about his journey to becoming a deacon and suggestions for best practices for deacons. This episode discusses the evolving role of deacons, community engagement, and practical support for church benevolence and justice initiatives.

Pastor Dave VanderWoude from City Hope GR shares insights on creating an inclusive church for people of all abilities. He discusses his personal journey, challenges in fostering belonging, and the transformative power of inclusivity. Don't miss these interesting stories and insights.

In this episode we're joined by Bev Stephenson, a dedicated volunteer in refugee resettlement in the US. Bev shares her experiences co-sponsoring Afghan and Cuban refugee families alongside her church. Bev shares insightful stories highlighting the challenges, joys, and profound impact of building cross-cultural relationships and supporting families through their resettlement journeys.

In this enlightening episode host Chris Orme has a candid conversation with Tom Jantzi, Director of Congregational Assistance Plan and Clergy Care at Shalem Network. Tom shares invaluable insights on destigmatizing mental health within church communities, emphasizing the importance of normalizing conversations and acknowledging the holistic nature of well-being. From practical programs like CAP to fostering safe spaces for vulnerability, they explore how churches can authentically support mental health while integrating faith and professional psychotherapy.

Host Chris Orme welcomes Greg Houldcroft, founder of Cross Town Impact, a ministry dedicated to serving at-risk youth. Greg shares his journey of faith and the challenges faced in establishing the organization. Cross Town Impact provides safe spaces for children, offering support and mentorship. Greg highlights lessons he's learned along the way especially for churches.

In this compelling episode host Chris Orme sits down with Dan Veeneman and Marcel de Regt from Gateway Community Church in Abbotsford B.C. Together, they delve into the church's transformative journey of hosting an extreme weather shelter for the homeless. Dan and Marcel share stories about the realities of participating in this ministry. From confronting addiction to offering hospitality, their experiences underscore the power of saying 'yes' when someone knocks on your door.

George de Vuyst, is a missionary with Resonate Global Mission.  He has been serving in Ukraine since 1998. George trains pastors and facilitates healing and reconciliation through “Healing Hearts, Transforming Nations” (HHTN) workshops and trainings for facilitators.  In June 2021 he traveled to Michigan and planned to return overseas in June 2022. Russia’s war against Ukraine changed that. We pray for the war to end and for opportunities to serve and minister to Ukrainians now and in the future. 

When Stacey Campbell talks about reconciliation she knows what she's talking about. Not only because of her work with Prison Fellowship Canada but also because of the reconciliation she has worked through in her personal life. Stacey vulnerably shares stories about both with us.

Marlene was born In Burns Lake BC to an Indigenous father and a white mother. Her father joined the military when she was 18 months old and she was raised in a variety of towns and Air Bases throughout Canada and Germany. In this episode Marlene tells us about what it has been like to embrace her Indigenous AND Christian identity.