Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes Pastor Jon Bilitz to discuss the unique aspects of campus ministry at Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel. They explore the challenges and joys of serving students, the importance of building connections, and the spiritual needs of young adults. The conversation highlights the role of community, engagement through events, and the impact of prayer in fostering relationships within the ministry. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Jon Bilitz explore the complexities of college life, faith, and the importance of vulnerability in relationships. They discuss the challenges students face in balancing academic pressures with spiritual growth, the impact of family support, and the evolving culture on college campuses. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open discussions about faith, sexuality, and the importance of finding supportive communities. Ultimately, they express optimism about the next generation's ability to navigate these challenges with a strong foundation in their faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast

01:15 Welcoming Pastor Jon Bilitz

03:56 Wisconsin Lutheran Chapel Overview

06:59 Unique Aspects of Campus Ministry

10:55 Engaging Students Through Events

15:23 Building Community and Relationships

18:20 Challenges of Campus Ministry

21:42 Future of Campus Ministry

23:43 Reflections on Past Experiences

25:12 Navigating Challenges in Campus Ministry

28:18 Understanding the Spiritual Needs of Young Adults

32:52 Building Connections Across Generations

35:56 The Importance of Authentic Relationships

39:33 Perceptions of Public Universities

45:09 Addressing Sexuality and Faith

47:32 Academic and Spiritual Indicators of Success

52:35 The Importance of Parental Support in Faith

53:48 Surrogate Parenting in Faith Communities

54:55 Encouragement and Connection with Students

57:00 Navigating Spiritual Independence

59:16 The Perspective of Time and Faith

01:00:35 Career Choices and Life Directions

01:03:02 The Value of Personal Experience in Ministry

01:05:20 The Joy of Ministry and Student Engagement

01:07:03 Understanding the Next Generation

01:08:46 Confidence in Future Generations

01:11:07 Excitement for Global Perspectives in Faith

01:13:02 Creating a Home Away from Home for Students

PB's Links:

[email protected]

instagram.com/wlchapel

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

Dean Otto joins the show to talk about the importance of church history in shaping Lutheran identity, especially within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod and the Confessional Evangelical Lutheran Conference. He explains how understanding our past gives clarity to our doctrine, strengthens our confessions, and helps preserve the unique voice of confessional Lutheranism in the modern Christian landscape.

This conversation explores both historical and current challenges faced by the Lutheran church in America, highlighting doctrinal integrity, the struggles of early immigrant congregations, and the role of pastors in building strong, faithful communities. Dean shares personal reflections and stories that illustrate the deep connection between faith, identity, and history.

The episode also looks ahead, considering mission opportunities and the importance of boldly proclaiming the gospel as we face the future. Throughout, the central theme is clear: preserving and understanding Lutheran history is vital for the church’s ongoing faithfulness and witness.

Chapters

04:14 Dean Otto's Role and Background

09:53 The Importance of Church History

14:24 Lutheranism's Historical Continuity

18:52 The Value of Distinctive Lutheran Teachings

23:46 The Emotional Experience of Faith

25:05 Lutheran Identity and Catholicism

27:03 The History of Lutheranism in America

28:21 Challenges Faced by Early Lutheran Immigrants

36:30 Cultural and Economic Challenges in the New World

44:43 Preserving Lutheran History and Identity

46:07 Reflections on the Wisconsin Synod's Journey

47:42 Mission Opportunities and Future Aspirations

49:03 Celebrating the Wisconsin Synod's History

50:17 Challenges Facing the Lutheran Church

52:38 Hopes for the Future of Confessional Lutheranism

01:04:51 The Importance of Proclaiming the Gospel

Dean Otto's Links:

WELS Historical Institute: https://welshistoricalinstitute.org/

WELS 175 resources: https://welshistoricalinstitute.org/175th-resources/

Christ Through Us: A Pictorial History of the Wisconsin Synod, 1850–2025: https://online.nph.net/christ-through-us.html

The Wisconsin Synod Lutherans, Second Edition: https://online.nph.net/the-wisconsin-synod-lutherans.html

WELS History YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@welshistory/videos

The Lutheran History Podcast: https://tlhp.buzzsprout.com/

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Jacob Kieselhorst, a recent seminary graduate and new pastor. They delve into the complex topic of toxic masculinity, exploring its definitions, societal implications, and the biblical perspective on masculinity. Jacob shares insights from his thesis on the subject, discussing the historical evolution of gender roles and the impact of modern society on men's behavior. The conversation emphasizes the importance of active fatherhood and the need for dialogue in addressing the challenges faced by men and women today. In this conversation, Jacob K and Charlie Ungemach explore the profound impact of fatherhood on identity, the importance of listening to understand others' experiences, and the role of scripture in defining masculinity. They emphasize the necessity of knowing Christ personally and presenting the unconditional love of God to those who have experienced negative father figures. The discussion also delves into various perspectives on masculinity found in literature, highlighting the need for a balanced understanding of manhood informed by Christian teachings.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast

05:59 Exploring Toxic Masculinity: The Thesis Behind the Discussion

12:09 Defining Toxic Masculinity: Perspectives and Challenges

21:13 The Other Side: Embracing Traditional Masculinity

30:43 Masculinity: The Struggle Between Hyper-Masculinity and Vulnerability

37:06 Historical Context: The Evolution of Gender Roles

42:48 The Role of Pornography in Modern Relationships

47:59 The Importance of Fathers in the Home

50:05 The Cycle of Emotional Wounds

52:51 Understanding the Roots of Anger

56:50 The Role of Scripture in Defining Masculinity

01:01:33 The Difference Between Kindness and Niceness

01:06:10 Knowing Christ: A Personal Relationship

01:11:33 The Beauty of God's Love Amidst Pain

01:12:16 The Prodigal Son: A Father's Love

01:13:45 God the Father: A Different Kind of Love

01:14:26 Forgiveness and Redemption for Fathers

01:14:56 Living Out the Christian Example

01:16:23 The Impact of Living Faithfully

01:17:19 Listening and Engaging in Conversations

01:17:57 Sharing Personal Testimonies

01:18:41 Evaluating Christian Literature

01:20:40 Understanding Negative Perceptions of Christianity

01:22:22 The Importance of Positive Male Figures

01:24:29 The Role of Mentorship in Healing

01:25:43 The Power of Presence in Relationships

01:27:39 Restoring Order Through Godly Leadership

01:29:05 The Need for Proper Masculine Role Models

01:30:33 Presenting Unconditional Love in Christ

01:31:16 Navigating Masculinity in Christian Literature

01:33:21 The Importance of Understanding Different Perspectives

Jacob's Links:

https://www.menshealth.com/trending-news/a60258262/crossroads-church-man-camp/

https://pastor.trinity-pres.net

http://essays.wls.edu:8080/handle/123456789/7676

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Ashley Fritz, a landscape architect and worship coordinator, about her journey of faith, experiences in a secular university, and the importance of community and genuine friendships. They discuss the challenges women face in the church, the significance of making faith personal, and the dynamics of dating in a Christian context. Ashley shares her insights on navigating peer pressure, building supportive relationships, and the evolving role of women in the church. In this conversation, Ashley Fritz and Charlie Ungemach explore the complexities of faith, relationships, and personal growth within the context of Christian values. They discuss the importance of being upfront about beliefs in dating, the value of being single, and the challenges young women face in the church. The conversation also touches on the state of young men in the church, the impact of societal norms on sexuality, and the significance of landscape architecture as a means to connect with God's creation. Throughout, they emphasize the importance of mentorship, community, and understanding one's purpose in life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Support

04:14 Staying Involved in Faith Post-College

08:54 Navigating the Party Culture at University

14:33 Building a Supportive Community in College

17:19 Preparing for Temptations and Challenges

20:07 Evangelism and Outreach in a Secular Environment

23:07 The Importance of Approach in Conversations

24:56 Reflections on Conversations with Different Beliefs

25:58 The Importance of Speaking Truth

27:45 Searching for Identity and Belonging

28:10 The Depth of True Christian Friendships

30:19 Navigating New Friendships in a New Place

32:14 The Role of Faith in Friendships

33:36 Choosing Friends Wisely

36:51 Creating a Culture of Meaningful Conversations

38:14 The Decline of Young Women in Church

41:29 Understanding Gender Roles in the Church

43:57 Ensuring Women Feel Valued in Church

45:45 The Experience of Being Heard in Church

47:31 Dating as a Single Woman in the Church

52:59 Navigating Faith and Relationships

56:18 The Freedom of Singleness vs. Desire for Family

59:07 The Value of Being Single in God's Kingdom

01:01:48 Cultural Influences on Women's Value

01:05:23 The State of Young Men in the Church

01:12:05 Challenges of Sexuality in Christian Dating

01:17:02 The Importance of Respect and Understanding Past Mistakes

01:20:17 Healing and Forgiveness in the Context of Sexuality

01:24:42 The Journey into Landscape Architecture

01:28:37 The Connection Between Nature and Human Well-being

01:33:57 Designing with Purpose: Understanding Creation

01:39:21 Natural Living and the Return to Simplicity

Ashley's Links:

https://www.instagram.com/refugeraleigh?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.instagram.com/ash.monette/https://www.instagram.com/ash.monette/

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Jon, a missionary in Ecuador, about his journey from teaching in the Midwest to working in global missions. They discuss the challenges and rewards of living in a different culture, the importance of family and faith, and the role of technology in outreach efforts. Jon shares insights on raising a bilingual child, navigating fame, and the significance of intentional mission work. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support and the power of God's word in guiding their lives and work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast

01:48 Journey to Ecuador: A Missionary's Tale

04:26 From Teaching to Mission Work: John's Transition

09:45 Overcoming Language Barriers in a New Country

11:28 The Gringo Show: A Unique Experience in Chile

14:48 Finding Purpose in Academia Cristo

17:12 Balancing Family Life and Mission Work

19:44 Raising a Bilingual Child in a Foreign Land

22:10 Cultural Differences in Worship

24:20 Multilingual Productions: Expanding the Mission

27:07 Intentional Outreach: Reaching Communities

29:31 The Role of Internet in Modern Missions

35:43 Faith in Adversity: Lessons Learned

39:36 Transformation Through Experience

40:29 Starting Anew: The Journey of Relocation

44:08 Embracing Community: The Power of Support

45:38 From Influencer to Celebrity: The Unexpected Journey

51:22 The Evolution of Content Creation: From Phone to Professional

58:38 Navigating Fame: The Balance of Influence and Humility

01:03:03 The Algorithm Game: Pressure and Authenticity

01:13:14 Finding Purpose: The Role of Faith in Life's Journey

Jon's Links:

http://academiacristo.com/

https://wels.net/serving-others/missions/latin-america/

https://www.youtube.com/@JonGrossGringo

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Quinten Petersen, a dedicated music educator at Wisconsin Lutheran High School. They discuss the importance of early music education, the value of persistence in practice, and the joy that music can bring to students. Quinten shares insights about his innovative Viking Steel program, which has significantly increased student engagement in music. The conversation also touches on the balance between talent and hard work in music education, and how building a culture of music can positively impact students' lives. In this engaging conversation, Quinten and Charlie explore the themes of personal branding, authenticity, and the balance between professional and personal life. They discuss the importance of curating one's brand while staying true to oneself, the joy found in the process of work, and the challenges of balancing fatherhood with a demanding career. The conversation also touches on the value of old friendships and the art of sharing experiences over whiskey, emphasizing the beauty in well-crafted moments and connections.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Support for Girt Up Podcast

07:55 The Importance of Music Education for Kids

11:50 Active, Intelligent Young People and Music

17:14 The Value of Hard Work in Music

23:03 Finding Joy in Music Education

25:57 The Birth of Viking Steel: A Unique Music Program

28:39 Building a Music Community

29:59 The Growth Mindset in Music Education

31:16 The Longevity of Steel Pan in Students' Lives

32:23 Music as a Community and Worship Tool

33:46 The On-Ramp to Ensemble Music Making

35:17 The Joy of Music Education

36:25 Defining Success as a Music Educator

38:30 The Role of Culture in Music Programs

39:39 Consistency and Building Trust in Music Education

42:34 Authenticity in Teaching and Personal Branding

46:12 Finding Your Truth and Brand

51:41 The Balance of Work and Family Life

56:31 The Power of Confidence in Communication

56:47 Lessons from Band Directing to Fatherhood

57:35 Navigating Challenges as a Parent

58:41 The Impact of Fatherhood on Teaching

01:00:20 Work-Life Integration: Finding Balance

01:04:13 The Importance of Self-Care for Educators

01:06:10 Understanding Time Management as a Parent

01:08:08 Efficiency and Adaptability in Parenting

01:09:57 The Value of Enjoying Your Work

01:12:27 Music Recommendations and Creative Passions

01:16:53 Exploring the World of Whiskey

Quinten's Links:

https://www.wlhs.org/

https://www.wlhs.org/academics/fine-arts/viking-steel-community-band

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews Chris Gorr, who discusses his thesis on moral injury, particularly in the context of law enforcement and military personnel. They explore the differences between moral injury and PTSD, the spiritual implications of these experiences, and how Christian communities can better support those affected. Chris shares his personal journey from law enforcement to ministry, emphasizing the importance of proactive spiritual care and the role of pastors in addressing moral injury. The conversation also touches on biblical examples of moral injury and the significance of the gospel in healing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast

01:13 Understanding Moral Injury

04:55 Personal Experiences with Moral Injury

07:49 Transitioning from Law Enforcement to Ministry

17:22 The Role of Pastors in Addressing Moral Injury

20:34 Distinguishing PTSD from Moral Injury

24:20 The Nature of Moral Injury

27:27 The Impact on First Responders

31:23 Toxic Experiences in Law Enforcement

35:23 The Role of Dispatchers in Public Safety

36:16 Moral Injury and Spiritual Care

41:20 Building Rapport with First Responders

46:07 The Importance of Proactive Spiritual Care

50:44 Recognizing Warning Signs of Distress

52:48 Biblical Examples of Moral Injury

55:34 The Combat Patch of the Cross

58:49 Reflections on Law Enforcement and Community Respect

Chris's Paper: http://essays.wls.edu:8080/handle/123456789/7673

WELS Military/Police Resources:

https://lutheranmilitary.org/

https://wels.net/serving-you/christian-life/special-ministries/ministry-to-the-military/military-resources/

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, Charlie Ungemach and Jacob Klug explore themes of manhood through the lens of poetry, particularly focusing on Rudyard Kipling's poem 'If.' They discuss the challenges of criticism, the nature of risk and resilience, and the philosophical implications of triumph and disaster. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, humility, and the understanding that both success and failure are temporary states. Ultimately, they highlight the need for a grounded perspective in life, rooted in faith and the recognition of one's limitations. In this conversation, Jacob and Charlie explore the themes of life's challenges, the importance of perspective, and the value of hard work. They discuss the balance between physical and mental challenges, the significance of purpose in actions, and the role of recreation and entertainment in life. The conversation also delves into the importance of physical labor, reflections on mortality, and the essence of true manhood, emphasizing love and vulnerability as central to human experience.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Support for Girt Up Podcast

03:49 Exploring Manhood Through Poetry

10:21 Kipling's 'If': A Deep Dive into Manhood

20:01 The Challenges of Criticism and Self-Reflection

29:45 Building Back After Loss: Resilience and Action

30:42 Understanding Job's Trials and Divine Sovereignty

33:50 The Nature of Risk and Stewardship

37:40 Embracing Risk in Christian Life

41:23 The Value of Hard Work and Mastery

45:46 Perspective on Triumph and Disaster

50:00 The Importance of Doing Hard Things

54:06 Purpose Behind Hard Work and Discipline

59:51 The Value of Love and Redemption

01:00:32 Recreation and Entertainment: A Necessary Balance

01:02:45 The Role of Physical Labor in Our Lives

01:08:36 The Importance of Meaningful Rest

01:11:07 Mortality and the Human Experience

01:17:46 The Limitations of Stoicism

01:22:32 The Centrality of Love in Virtue

01:28:22 Faith and the Journey to Wholeness

Jacob's Links:

https://x.com/i/flow/login?redirect_after_login=%2Fklugsays

https://www.youtube.com/ @RevKlug 

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach interviews JonAlden Pedersen about the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in ministry and society. They discuss the definition of AI, its principles of use, and how it can serve as a tool for enhancing church work. The conversation also addresses concerns about AI replacing jobs, the fears surrounding its impact, and the importance of using AI responsibly within a Christian context. Ultimately, they emphasize that while AI can be a powerful tool, it should not overshadow the human element in ministry and community building. In this conversation, Jon Alden Peterson and Charlie Ungemach explore the multifaceted applications of AI in everyday life, particularly in research, learning, and church ministry. They discuss the importance of effective prompting, transparency in AI usage, and the potential for AI to enhance community engagement within the church. The dialogue emphasizes the need for ethical considerations and the integration of technology with traditional values, ultimately aiming to leverage AI for positive outcomes in personal and communal contexts.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast

01:10 Exploring Artificial Intelligence

03:34 Defining Artificial Intelligence

09:14 Principles of AI Usage

12:03 AI as a Tool for Ministry

14:14 AI's Impact on Employment

18:31 Addressing Fears of AI

21:23 The Role of AI in the Church

25:16 Practical Applications of AI

32:26 Harnessing AI for Everyday Tasks

35:54 AI as a Research Assistant

36:51 Learning New Skills with AI

37:18 Transparency and Ethical Use of AI

38:15 Effective Prompting Techniques

43:34 Building a Conversational Relationship with AI

47:34 The Future of AI in Ministry

50:52 Creating a Positive Online Community

56:49 Leveraging AI for Church Engagement

01:00:07 Integrating Tradition with Technology

Jon's Links:

https://www.facebook.com/jonny.pedersen.524

https://www.instagram.com/jonaldendelmer/

Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary Essay File:

https://www.wisluthsem.org/resources/essay-files/

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summary

In this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes Professor Joel Russow, a systematic theology and pastoral theology professor at Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. They discuss the importance of pastoral and mental health counseling, the journey of lifelong learning in theology, and the unique challenges faced by seminarians. Professor Russow shares insights on building trust with pastors, the intersection of counseling and theology, and the need for support in ministry. The conversation emphasizes the significance of understanding mental health within the context of faith and the role of education in preparing future pastors. In this conversation, Professor Joel Russow and Charlie Ungemach delve into the complexities of infidelity, mental health, and the alarming rise of male suicide. They explore how understanding the psychological impact of infidelity can aid pastors in counseling, the intersection of secular research and biblical teachings, and the importance of community support in addressing mental health issues. The discussion emphasizes the need for open conversations about suicide, particularly among men, and highlights the role of faith and community in providing hope and healing. In this conversation, Charlie Ungemach and Professor Joel Russow explore the complexities of prayer, the implications of suicide, and the comforting aspects of Lutheran theology. They discuss personal prayer practices, the nature of prayer as a conversation with God, and the challenges surrounding the topic of suicide, including questions of salvation and forgiveness. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of mourning and hope in the face of grief, the longing for eternal life, and the purpose of life on earth as a calling to serve others. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the unwavering love of God and the assurance of His presence in our lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:18 Meet Professor Joel Russow

02:44 The Journey of Lifelong Learning

05:23 The Intersection of Pastoral and Mental Health Counseling

09:24 Navigating the Need for Counseling

11:50 Expectations from Pastoral Counseling

14:05 Building Trust with Your Pastor

16:05 The Role of a Counseling Professor

18:14 The Importance of Counseling in Seminary Training

23:00 Common Struggles of Seminarians

27:11 Specialization in Mental Health Counseling

29:19 Understanding Infidelity and Its Impact

34:15 The Intersection of Research and Biblical Perspectives

34:44 Addressing Male Suicide: A Growing Concern

42:05 The Complexity of Mental Health Issues

48:28 Finding Hope in Community and Faith

01:01:47 Creating Personal Prayer Spaces

01:02:47 The Nature of Prayer as Conversation

01:05:08 Understanding Suicide and Its Implications

01:07:30 Lutheran Perspectives on Sin and Salvation

01:11:32 Responding to Grief and Loss

01:15:29 Navigating Conversations Around Suicide

01:18:10 Longing for Home: A Christian Perspective

01:22:32 Finding Purpose in Our Time on Earth

Gird Up Links:

https://youtube.com/@girdupministries4911?si=tbCa0SOiluVl8UFx

https://www.instagram.com/girdup_be_a_man/

https://www.girdupministries.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.