Jesus in the Upper Left

Jesus in the Upper Left

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Jesus in the Upper Left episodes

  • Worship, Creativity, & Finding Hope with Hannah Glavor

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    In this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, we sit down with Hannah Glavor, an indie artist and worship leader, to explore how faith, creativity, and hope come together in powerful ways.


    🎶 Learn how Hannah’s journey—from worship leader to indie artist—has shaped her voice and mission.


    đź“– Topics include:

    •Facing challenges like a brain tumor and its impact on her creativity

    •Balancing music ministry inside and outside the church

    •Leading with vulnerability and empowering others


    đź’¬ What did you take away from this episode? Share in the comments below!


    đź”— Follow Hannah Glavor:

    •Website: HannahGlavor.com

    •Instagram: @hannahtheglavor


    🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations about faith and creativity!

    48 min
  • Beyond Performance: Rethinking Worship with Brian Winchester (Saving Grace Church)

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    What is true worship, and how can we cultivate a deeper, more authentic experience in our churches? Join Ahshuwah Hawthorne and Andre as they discuss worship with Brian Winchester, pastor of Saving Grace Church and a former hip-hop artist. Brian shares his unique journey from the music industry to ministry, exploring the transformative power of the gospel and the importance of responding to God in a worthy manner.

    This episode delves into:

    • Brian's Journey: From hip-hop artist to church planter
    • Defining Worship: Responding to God's worthiness in a worthy way
    • Common Pitfalls: Avoiding the pursuit of experience over encounter
    • The Role of the Worship Leader: Prioritizing character and servanthood
    • Cultivating Authentic Worship: Practical tips for fostering a deeper connection with God in corporate gatherings

    Whether you're a worship leader, a pastor, or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of worship, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others discover the true meaning of worship!

    1 hr 7 min
  • Planting and Thriving in Portland: A Church Planter's Journey

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    What are the unique challenges and joys of planting a church in Portland, Oregon? Join Ahshuwah Hawthorne and Andre as they sit down with Simon Bardoni, a church planter with over seven years of experience in the city. Simon shares his personal journey, the milestones, and the unexpected turns that have shaped his ministry.

    In this episode, you'll discover:

    • The Call to Portland: How Simon and his team ended up planting in the "Upper Left"
    • Major Milestones: From finding a venue to navigating a pandemic, Simon shares key moments in his church plant's journey
    • Christ-centered, Spirit-empowered, Socially Responsible: Exploring the core values that drive Simon's ministry
    • Global Connections: The impact of being part of a wider church network
    • Challenges and Encouragements: Honest reflections on the realities of church planting in Portland

    Whether you're a seasoned pastor, an aspiring church planter, or simply curious about ministry in the Pacific Northwest, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to support church planting in Portland and beyond!

    1 hr 3 min
  • Reclaiming Sacred Time: Combating the Secular Eclipse with Dr. Metzger

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    Is the secular calendar eclipsing the Christian imagination? Join Pete Armstrong and Ahshuwah Hawthorne as they welcome Dr. Metzger, author of "Setting the Spiritual Clock," to explore the importance of reclaiming sacred time in a secular age. Dr. Metzger shares his insights on navigating the liturgical calendar, engaging in multi-faith dialogue, and fostering a vibrant Christian community in the Pacific Northwest.

    This episode explores:

    • The Secular Eclipse: How cultural calendars can overshadow Christian rhythms
    • Jesus the Liturgical Being: Discovering the biblical roots of liturgical practices
    • The Power of the Liturgical Calendar: Its impact on spiritual formation and community
    • Multi-Faith Engagement: Building bridges with those outside the Christian faith
    • Advice for Church Leaders: Practical tips for navigating ministry in the Pacific Northwest

    Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will challenge and inspire you to reclaim sacred time and live with greater intentionality. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others discover the richness of the Christian tradition!

    Dr. Metzger's book: https://www.amazon.com/Setting-Spiritual-Clock-Breaking-Through/dp/1725258706

    1 hr 2 min
  • The Secret Struggle: Understanding Addiction in Your Church

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    What lies at the heart of addiction? Join Pete Armstrong and Petr Shotropa as they delve into the complexities of addiction and recovery with licensed professional counselor, Rhys Passimio. Rhys shares his personal journey, professional insights, and the often-misunderstood aspects of addiction, particularly within the context of faith.

    In this episode, you'll discover:

    • The root of addiction: Exploring the underlying pain and intimacy disorders
    • Acting in vs. acting out: Understanding the spectrum of addictive behaviors
    • The role of fasting: How this spiritual discipline can aid in recovery
    • Misconceptions about sex addiction: Addressing common myths and harmful beliefs
    • Partnering for healing: How pastors and counselors can work together to support those struggling with addiction

    Tune in for a compassionate and insightful conversation that sheds light on the path to healing and wholeness. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help break the stigma around addiction and support those in recovery!

    1 hr 3 min
  • Discipleship Reimagined: It's Not Just About Programs

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    What does real-life discipleship look like in the midst of busy schedules, suburban life, and cultural distractions? Join Pete Armstrong and Stephen Collins as they explore discipleship beyond programs and structures. Discover the power of head, heart, and hands in fostering spiritual growth, and learn how suffering can become a surprising catalyst for deeper faith. Stephen shares his unique perspective on ministry in the Pacific Northwest and challenges us to create "greenhouses" where genuine discipleship can flourish.

    Key takeaways from this episode:

    • Head, Heart, & Hands: A holistic approach to discipleship
    • The Power of Suffering: How trials can deepen our faith
    • Creating Greenhouses: Fostering an environment for growth
    • Beyond Programs: Rethinking discipleship in everyday life
    • Ministry in the PNW: Unique challenges & opportunities

    Tune in for an authentic conversation that will challenge and inspire you on your journey of faith. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others discover the transforming power of discipleship!

    46 min
  • The Secret to Thriving in Ministry (Hint: It's Not Just About KPIs)

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    In this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, Ahshuwah Hawthorne talks with John Garrick about the importance of soul care, rest, and intentional friendships in ministry.

    Discover insights on:

    • The hidden struggles of ministry leaders and the loneliness that can accompany even the most successful ministries
    • The dangers of measuring success solely by outcomes and neglecting the "being" aspect of ministry
    • The transformative power of retreats and intentional time away for rest and renewal
    • The importance of cultivating deep, non-dual relationships with other ministry leaders
    • Practical tips for prioritizing soul care and building a healthy rhythm of life in ministry

    Don't miss this essential conversation! Like, subscribe, and share this video to support those in ministry and encourage a culture of soul care.

    For more information and to connect with Multiply PDX, visit upperleftshow.com.

    58 min
  • The Mental Health Crisis: A Christian Counselor's Perspective

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    In this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, Pete Armstrong and Ahshuwah Hawthorne continue their series on mental health in the church with Dr. Bart Fowler, a licensed psychologist from Charis Counseling Associates.

    Together, they delve into:

    • The growing mental health crisis, particularly among adolescents and young adults
    • The role of social media and other factors contributing to this crisis
    • The importance of facing our struggles head-on and taking responsibility for our own choices
    • Dr. Fowler's unique "tic-tac-toe" model for understanding and navigating life's challenges
    • How faith and a biblical worldview can inform our approach to mental and emotional health

    Don't miss this insightful conversation! Like, subscribe, and share this video to support mental health awareness in the church and beyond.

    For more information and to connect with Multiply PDX, visit upperleftshow.com.

    1 hr 1 min
  • Church Planting: The Burnout Trap (and How to Avoid It)

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    In this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, Pete Armstrong and Oshawa Hawthorne continue their series on mental health in the church with Micah Dodson from Thrive Church Planting (web: thrivechurchplanting.org / email: [email protected]) and Abe Figueroa from CARES Counseling.

    They delve into the unique challenges faced by church planters and pastors, discussing:

    • The pressure to succeed and the dangers of work-life imbalance
    • The isolation and blind spots that can develop in leadership
    • The importance of recognizing warning signs and seeking help
    • Strategies for building a healthy, sustainable ministry

    Don't miss this important conversation! Like, subscribe, and share this video to support mental health awareness in ministry.

    For more information and to connect with Multiply PDX, visit https://www.upperleftshow.com

    1 hr 45 min
  • When 'I Got This' Mentality Fails: A Therapist's Perspective

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    In this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, Pete Armstrong and Ahshuwah Hawthorne dive into the crucial topic of mental health in the church with Jamie Califf, a licensed mental health counselor and executive director at CARES Counseling.

    Discover insights on:

    • The interplay between mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health
    • The unique challenges faced by church leaders and their families
    • How Christian counseling can provide a safe space for healing and growth
    • The importance of seeking help before reaching a crisis point

    Don't miss this vital conversation! Like, subscribe, and share this video to support mental health awareness in the church.

    For more information and to connect with Multiply PDX, visit https://upperleftshow.com.

    40 min

About Jesus in the Upper Left

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"Jesus in the Upper Left" is a Portland-based, thought-provoking podcast that explores the unique challenges and opportunities of ministry, church planting and Gospel multiplication in the Pacific…