In this milestone 300th episode, TJ Kirk joins Chris McCurley to discuss how churches can be more inviting and create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. They explore practical ways to foster a culture of hospitality and genuine connection within the church. TJ Kirk, Vice President of Student Services at Freed-Hardeman University, brings valuable insight into making congregations more open and engaging.

This spring, embark on a journey of faith with the 89th Annual Freed-Hardeman University

Lectureship, happening March 16–20, 2025. The theme? "Promise and Providence: A Faith

Journey through Genesis."

Discover God's creation, humanity's rebellion, and His enduring patience and provision—from

the garden to the global flood, the faith of Abraham, Sarah, and Jacob, to the journey of Joseph

and Israel into Egypt. These stories aren't just history; they're reminders of God's unchanging

promises, even in times of trial.

Come to Freed-Hardeman University for five days of inspiring lessons, fellowship, and spiritual

growth. To make this even sweeter, the lectureships are free to attend! That's right - there's no

registration fees.

So mark your calendars and learn more at www.fhu.edu/lectureships

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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#DearChurch #WelcomingChurch #ChurchGrowth #ChristianCommunity #TJkirk #ChrisMcCurley #HospitalityInChurch

In this episode, Joe Wells joins Chris McCurley to discuss his new book, Connected: Parenting Faithfully in the Digital Age. They explore the impact of technology on children's faith, identity, and values, offering practical tools for Christian parents to set boundaries, foster real-world relationships, and instill discernment in a tech-driven world.

Check Out Connected: Parenting Faithfully in the Digital Age:

https://www.amazon.com/Connected-Parenting-Faithfully-Digital-Age/dp/1952955513

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#DearChurch #ChristianParenting #FaithandTechnology #ParentingWisely #JoeWells #ChrisMcCurley #ConnectedBook #RaisingFaithfulKids

Dr. Candice McQueen, president of Lipscomb University and former Tennessee Commissioner of Education, joins Chris McCurley to discuss the intersection of faith and educational leadership. They explore how Christian values shape her approach to higher education, student success, and leadership in academia.

Attention! We want to let you know about a FREE resource coming your way. A seminar on

February 11th-13th entitled What Every Church Leader and Behavioral Health Professional

Needs to Know About Sexuality and Ministry.

If you work in the ministry space or as a social worker or a counselor, this FREE seminar is

perfect for you.

Hosted by Freed-Hardeman University and featuring renowned expert Steve Holladay, this

seminar will cover vital topics around sexuality like trauma, addiction, and healing.

If you're a counselor or social worker, you'll also receive CE credits, again, for FREE! Again,

that date is February 11th-13th on the campus of Freed-Hardeman University.

You simply do not want to miss this opportunity. For more information and to register, you can

email [email protected].

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #FaithandEducation #LipscombUniversity #EducationalLeadership #ChristianHigherEd #CandiceMcQueen #ChrisMcCurley

Dan Owen, a seasoned preacher of the gospel for over 39 years, joins this episode to discuss bruised faith—how to address spiritual wounds and help those who have been hurt. As a longtime minister at Broadway Church of Christ and a former academic dean at Bear Valley Bible Institute, Dan brings a wealth of experience in biblical teaching and ministry. With advanced degrees in Bible and Greek New Testament, as well as a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction, he has authored numerous biblical studies, including "That You May Believe" and "How We Got the Bible." His insights help ministers and Christians navigate struggles with faith and work toward healing.

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
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#BruisedFaith #HealingInChrist #ChristianMinistry #DanOwen #FaithStruggles #ChurchHurt #SpiritualHealing #BiblicalTeaching #MinistryMatters #HelpingTheHurt #BiblicalWisdom #FaithRestoration #ChristianLeadership

In Dear Church Ep. 296, we're joined by David Rives, founder of David Rives Ministries and The Wonders Center & Science Museum, a unique destination that blends science and faith. Located just 35 minutes from Nashville, the museum highlights God's fingerprints in disciplines like astronomy, biology, geology, and more. Featuring life-size dinosaur replicas, hands-on experiments for kids, and a world-class planetarium, the museum upholds biblical values while showcasing the wonders of creation. David shares his mission to inspire faith and defend the Gospel through scientific exploration and discovery.

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• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#creationScience #DavidRives #WondersCenter #scienceAndFaith #biblicalCreation #ChristianScienceMuseum #dinosaursAndTheBible #defendingFaith #creationBasedScience #scienceMuseumNashville #originsMedia #BibleAndScience #apologetics #ChristianEducation #biblicalWorldview #faithAndScienceIntegration #creationApologetics #defendingTheGospel #ChristianDiscovery #DavidRivesMinistries

Join us for a conversation with Dr. Richard Johnson, President of Crowley's Ridge College in Paragould, AR. Since 2020, Dr. Johnson has led this remarkable Christian institution, combining over 35 years of experience in ministry, fundraising, and higher education leadership. Learn about the unique mission of Crowley's Ridge College and how it serves as a hidden gem in Christian education.

Learn more about Crowley's Ridge College

https://crc.edu

Freed-Hardeman University invites you to join them on February 11th-13th for a seminar

entitled What Every Church Leader and Behavioral Health Professional Needs to Know

About Sexuality and Ministry.

For more information and to register, you can email [email protected].

Invest in yourself at Freed-Hardeman University.

https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch

• Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/
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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#ChristianEducation #CrowleysRidgeCollege #DrRichardJohnson #ChristianLeadership #FaithBasedEducation #DearChurchPodcast #HigherEducation #ChurchOfChrist #ChristianCollege

In Episode 294 of Dear Church, Carlus Gupton, director of the Doctor of Ministry program at Lipscomb University, shares his wealth of experience in church leadership and preacher hiring. With decades of experience in ministry and education, Carlus provides practical advice and deep insights into the challenges and opportunities churches face when searching for a new minister. Drawing from his academic expertise and real-world experiences, he explores how congregations can navigate this pivotal process to foster thriving faith communities.

Invest in yourself at Freed-Hardeman University.

https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch

• Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/
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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#DearChurch, #ChurchLeadership, #PreacherHiring, #ChurchMinistry, #CarlusGupton, #LipscombUniversity, #ChristianPodcast, #ThrivingCongregations, #MinisterSearch, #FaithLeadership

In Dear Church Ep. 293, Brandon Edwards explores how the church can effectively engage with technology. Exploring everything from digital platforms to outreach strategies, this episode dives into the tools and strategies churches should embrace and the pitfalls to avoid. If you're curious about where the church can grow in the digital age and how to use technology to spread the gospel, this conversation is a must-watch!

Invest in yourself at Freed-Hardeman University.

https://www.fhu.edu/dearchurch

Connect with Us:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dearchurch_podcast/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564673680147
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DearChurch

• Website: https://www.rippleoflight.org/
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Have a question? Email Chris at [email protected].

#DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #BrandonEdwards #ChurchAndTechnology #ChristianTech #Evangelism #SocialMediaForChurch #ChurchLiveStreams #FaithAndTechnology #OnlineEvangelism

In Dear Church Ep. 292, Stephen Scaggs joins the discussion on how Christians should view and treat Christmas. Is it a pagan holiday, or can it be celebrated in a way that honors God? This episode dives into the history, traditions, and spiritual implications of Christmas for believers. Whether you're curious about the origins of the holiday or seeking guidance on how to approach it, this conversation offers valuable insights.

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#DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #StephenScaggs #Christmas #HolidaysAndFaith #ChristianHolidays #FaithAndTradition #IsChristmasPagan #CelebrateChristmas #ChristianPerspective

In Dear Church Ep. 291, Blake Donaho joins the conversation to discuss the vital role of young disciples in the church. They explore how the church perceives younger Christians, ways young disciples can actively serve, and how churches can foster growth and discipleship among the next generation. It's a thought-provoking episode about nurturing faith and leadership in young believers.

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#DearChurch #ChristianPodcast #BlakeDonaho #YoungDisciples #ChristianYouth #ChurchGrowth #Discipleship #NextGeneration #FaithLeadership #RippleOfLight