Between Sundays

What does it take to navigate decades of change in a church while staying grounded in what matters most? In this episode of Between Sundays, several members of Rainbow Forest’s pastoral staff sit down to reflect on the church’s journey through the years. From pastoral transitions and evolving ministries to changes in worship, facilities, and leadership, they share firsthand stories, unexpected challenges, and some of the changes that have produced lasting fruit. But through it all, one thing has remained constant: a commitment to Christ and the mission of His church. Whether you've been part of Rainbow Forest for decades or are newer to the church, this conversation offers a meaningful look at where we've been, how God has led us, and the faithfulness that carries us forward.

How can a church change over four decades while staying rooted in the same unchanging gospel? Join Pastor John and Pastor Lane Hasson on Between Sundays as they look back at nearly 40 years of change at Rainbow Forest Baptist Church—from pastoral leadership and worship styles to missions and church governance. Discover how God uses seasons of transition to grow His church while His Word and the message of Christ remain the same.

Family Discipleship: Raising Kids Who Follow Jesus

What does it look like to disciple your children when the ultimate goal isn’t perfect behavior, but a heart that loves Jesus? Join Martha as she talks with Josh and Heidi Payne about the joys and challenges of family discipleship. From teaching little ones about God to equipping teenagers to live out their faith, they share practical wisdom on shepherding hearts, modeling grace, praying together, and trusting God as children grow into adulthood. Discover how parents can faithfully guide their children while giving them room to make their faith their own—and why you don’t have to be a perfect parent to point your family to a perfect Savior.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Before you vote, do you know what’s actually on the ballot?

In this episode of Between Sundays, Pastor John and Vanessa walk through the proposed Virginia constitutional amendments and discuss why Christians should take time to understand what they are voting on. They talk through the ballot language, biblical convictions about life and marriage, voting rights, and the importance of considering the long-term impact of constitutional changes.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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What happens when student ministry becomes more than just a Wednesday night?

In this episode of Between Sundays, Pastor John sits down with Brooks Ward, Rainbow Forest’s new Family Pastor, to talk about his calling, his vision for student ministry, and his passion for equipping families to disciple their kids at home. Brooks shares his desire to help students grow in their knowledge of God’s Word, confidently wrestle with difficult questions about their faith, and discover how God has gifted them to serve within the church. He also explains why family worship matters and how parents can make discipleship a natural part of everyday life. Together, John and Brooks discuss the importance of connecting students to the larger church body rather than allowing student ministry to become an island—and what it looks like to equip the next generation to love Jesus, know His Word, and serve His church.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Who is responsible for discipling your kids? In this episode of Between Sundays, we talk about the parent’s calling to be the primary disciple-maker and how the church can come alongside families—not replace them. Discover simple, practical ways to weave faith into everyday family life and take the next small step toward helping your children follow Christ.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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What does it really mean to parent with the gospel at the center? In this episode of Between Sundays, Brianna McMillan and Pastor John Richardson explore the biblical foundation of parenting, reminding us that discipleship isn’t a checklist or a once-a-week activity—it’s a daily rhythm of bringing God’s Word and presence into the life of the family. From Deuteronomy 6 to Ephesians 6, they discuss how parents can intentionally use everyday moments to teach their children about God, establish meaningful rhythms of Scripture and prayer, and trust that God’s Word does the work. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow, this conversation offers encouragement and practical ways to build a home where knowing and following Jesus becomes part of everyday life.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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What happens when students step outside their comfort zones and serve halfway around the world? In this episode of Between Sundays, Pastor Joel sits down with two students to talk about their experiences serving in Guatemala. They share stories of friendship, serving children and the elderly, seeing God at work through local churches, and how the trip opened their eyes to faith, worship, and the needs of others. Hear how these experiences have shaped their relationship with Christ and sparked a desire to keep going wherever God leads.

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What is it like to watch your child step out in faith and serve on a mission trip? On this episode of Between Sundays, Pastor Joel sits down with Katie and Abby to talk about the recent trip to Guatemala from two very different perspectives. Abby shares what it was like to serve on the mission field, while Katie reflects on the experience of sending her daughter and navigating the unique challenges and joys of being a sending parent.

Together, they discuss how this year's trip was different for their family, the ways God worked in their hearts, and the lasting impact short-term mission trips can have on both those who go and those who stay behind.

www.rainbowforest.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Worshiping With Tears (Psalm 89:46–52) reminds us that God meets us in the midst of suffering. The psalmist teaches us to bring our deepest questions to the Lord in prayer, cling to His unchanging character when our circumstances are painful, and continue worshiping even through tears. Suffering is not wasted—it conforms us to Christ, prepares us for eternal glory, loosens our grip on this world, and draws us closer to God. Because Jesus has conquered death through His resurrection, believers can worship with hope, trusting that God is at work even in life's hardest seasons.