In this episode, Rev. David Hockett shares his journey into ministry, his return to the role of Metro District Superintendent, and insights on leadership, change, and faith in challenging times.

00:00 Introduction to David Hockett and the Metro District Superintendent role

01:36 David's call to ministry and early formation in the church

05:02 Returning to district superintendent a second time

09:06 Leaving Davidson and moving into a new season

13:21 What a district superintendent actually does

16:05 Making space for clergy and laity to try new things

18:37 When DS leadership should be mostly invisible

20:44 The spiritual responsibility of serving on the cabinet

25:37 The human side of appointment making

32:16 Learning from failure and moving too slowly

39:23 What David is listening for in this season of church change

48:38 The church's calling to embody Christ in the world

51:04 The same call for laity and clergy alike

52:02 Two ways to support the work: prayer and presence

Meredith Martin, the new conference treasurer and director of administrative services, shares her journey, experience, and vision for her new role. She emphasizes the importance of stewardship, accountability, and mission in managing the financial and administrative aspects of the conference. Meredith's background as a deacon, social worker, and nonprofit leader has prepared her to bring a unique perspective to her new role, ensuring responsible and strategic financial management aligned with the mission of the church. The conversation covers topics related to financial stewardship, integrity, and responsibility, as well as the importance of financial sustainability, margin, and creative vision. It also delves into best practices for church financial health, non-traditional giving, and asset management. Additionally, the discussion touches on personal interests, hobbies, and the importance of well-being in the context of professional responsibilities.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Meredith Martin

02:06 Meredith's Calling and Background

03:12 Meredith's Experience and Preparation

05:05 Meredith's Intersection of Background and Experience

09:12 Meredith's New Role and Early Experiences

13:33 Understanding the Role of Conference Treasurer

18:50 Meredith's Week and Responsibilities

23:31 Building Trust and Connecting with Local Churches

25:57 Stewardship as Ministry

27:40 Stewardship and Integrity

33:41 Financial Sustainability and Margin

36:14 Church Financial Health

39:35 Non-Traditional Giving and Asset Management

43:29 Personal Interests and Well-Being

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Stephanie Hand shares insights on the Holy Spirit's movement in church life, the importance of authentic evangelism, and reimagining church beyond traditional walls. Join us for a deep dive into spiritual renewal and practical steps for engaging the world with courage and compassion.

Resources

Western North Carolina Conference Susanna Wesley - Mother of Methodism

Guest Links:

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Chapters

00:00 Debriefing the Annual Conference 03:05 The Role of the Holy Spirit 05:36 Living Beyond the Walls of the Church 08:39 The Balance of Holy and Human 11:31 The Power of Holy Conferencing 14:26 Embracing Change and New Directions 17:22 Personal Stories of Faith and Growth 26:37 The Call to Courageous Action 28:34 Reimagining the Church's Future 32:02 Building Without a Blueprint 36:55 Assignments in Everyday Life 41:14 Discipleship and Personal Holiness 45:15 The Church as a Community Center 48:04 Embracing Technology in Evangelism 49:31 Rebuilding Church Evangelism 52:28 The Power of Connection in Ministry

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the 2026 Western North Carolina Annual Conference, highlighting key initiatives, recognitions, and spiritual reflections that shape the future of the church in the region.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview 02:37 Church Restoration Fund and Racial Justice Initiatives 04:08 Partnership with Ukraine-Moldova Conference 05:56 Reinstatement of Lauren Scruggs' Ordination Credentials 07:53 Recognition of Ministry Leaders and New Ordinations 09:57 Conference Budget and Financial Stewardship 12:36 Small Group Conversations and Community Engagement 14:20 Honoring Retiring and Deceased Clergy 14:48 Governance and Mission of the Conference 17:54 Pre-Conference Workshops and Engagement Opportunities 19:27 Commissioning of Presiding Elders and Leadership Development 21:17 Celebrations and Milestones in the Conference 22:29 Joy and Reflection on Inclusion and Progress 24:45 Worship as the Heart of the Conference 26:42 Closing Reflections and Call to Action 29:42 MOG-Like and Subscribe.mp4

Join Jesse Enniss and John Yeager as they chat with Kaury Edwards, a visionary Annual Conference worship leader preparing to pass the baton after four years of shaping unforgettable conference experiences. Kaury shares the meticulous process of blending deep-rooted Methodist traditions with bold, innovative design that reimagines sacred space — from stunning backdrops inspired by Taylor Swift's Eras Tour to visual art that celebrates 660+ churches. You'll discover how intentional planning, community participation, and spiritual discernment turn routine gatherings into Holy Spirit-filled Annual Confernce celebrations.

Show Notes:

Annual Conference 2026 - June 18-21. Lake Junaluska, NC

Failure-Sparked Innovation: The Key to Ensuring the Future of Local Churches by Kaury C. Edwards

Chapters

00:00 The Heart of Annual Conference Worship 03:02 Planning and Preparation for Annual Conference Worship 06:05 Balancing Tradition and Creativity 09:11 Creative Elements in Worship 12:06 Engaging with Juneteenth 15:00 Transitioning Out of Leadership 18:01 Strangely Heartwarming Moments 22:42 Connecting Through Liturgy 23:59 Bold Creativity in Worship 26:21 Epic Fails 30:23 Embracing Failure as a Path to Growth 32:24 The Spirit's Role in Community 35:12 Anticipation for Annual Conference

Summary

This episode features insights on church leadership, the importance of humility, and navigating change during appointment season. Hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the significance of mentorship, avoiding ego, and the power of community in faith-based leadership.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Peace Conference and Pilgrimage

05:31 Navigating Appointment Season

08:31 The Importance of Connection and Community

11:28 Theological Reflections on Leadership

14:25 The Role of Mentorship in Ministry

17:37 Epic Fails in Leadership

20:29 The Need for Balance in Ministry

23:22 Conclusion and Call to Action

32:02 MOG-Like and Subscribe

MOG Re-Air from 2023: In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and Kim Ingram talk to Rev. Katherine Sherrill, a therapist, and United Methodist deacon, about the pervasive state of anxiety in our lives. They discuss how our relationship with God through the church can give hope and methods for de-escalating our worries. Share this holy conversation with a friend.

Summary

In this episode of Means of Grace, John Yeager explores the significance of Lent and its evolution over the years, emphasizing the importance of reflection and spiritual growth. He is joined by Reverend Dr. In-Yong Lee, who shares her experiences as a district superintendent and the challenges faced by church leaders today. The conversation delves into the practices of Lent, including fasting, prayer, and giving, and discusses the recent regionalization within the United Methodist Church, highlighting the need for community support during these challenging times.

Show Note:

• Quietly Courageous by Gil Rendle

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Lent: A Journey of Reflection 02:57 The Role of Leadership in the Church 03:58 Navigating Challenges in Ministry 07:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 09:42 Practices of Faith: Prayer, Fasting, and Giving 12:51 The Essence of Fasting and Its Spiritual Significance 17:38 Tithing: Balancing Generosity and Responsibility 24:57 The Role of Wealth in Generosity 28:14 Understanding Regionalization in the UMC 36:01 Clergy Exhaustion and Community Support 44:43 Embracing Change During Lent 46:47 MOG-Like and Subscribe

Summary

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Rev. Beth Crissman engage in a profound discussion about the ongoing conversation surrounding peace, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2026 Peace Conference. They explore the theme of 'Disarming Hatred' and the importance of practicing peace as a form of resistance in a world filled with division and hatred. The conversation delves into the historical context of hatred, the difference between worldly peace and the peace of Jesus, and the necessity of community and individual action in fostering compassion and understanding. The speakers emphasize the importance of preparation for the conference, including self-reflection and partnership in advocacy for peace.

Show Notes:

Peace Conference: March 13-15, 2026 Lake Junaluska, NC

Chapters

00:00 The Ongoing Conversation About Peace 01:25 Introducing the 2026 Peace Conference 02:04 Changes and Continuities in the Peace Conference 04:44 The Historical Context of Hatred 06:09 Shifting the Narrative from Hate to Compassion 08:44 The Illusion of Peace in History 10:35 Jesus' Peace vs. Worldly Peace 12:21 The Long Road to Shalom 13:34 Disarming Hatred: A Call to Action 15:41 Understanding the Roots of Division 18:16 Self-Examination and the Danger of Hatred 20:30 Preparing for the Peace Conference 23:04 The Role of Anger in Advocacy 26:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 34:48 MOG-Like and Subscribe.mp4

In this conversation, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage with Nathan Webb, author of 'God and the Machine', to explore the intersection of faith and technology. They discuss the historical context of technology in relation to faith, the ethical implications of AI in ministry, and the importance of building relationships in a digital age. Nathan shares his experiences as a church planter and the role of AI in enhancing accessibility and community within the church. The discussion emphasizes the need for ethical considerations in the use of technology and the enduring relevance of love and grace in ministry.

Bio: Nathan Webb is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church and the founding pastor of Checkpoint Church, a digital-first United Methodist community. He writes and teaches at the intersection of faith, technology, and pop culture, creating accessible theology for digital natives and digital skeptics alike. Through YouTube, Twitch Substack, Discord, and other online platforms, Nathan reaches a global audience with weekly "nerdy sermons" and creative resources for churches navigating the digital age.

• God and the Machines
  • Cokesbury Book
  • Cokesbury Leader Guide
  • Amazon Book
  • Amazon Leader Guide
• The Remarkable Life of Ibelin

• The A.I. Advantage
• The 2025 Annual Conference Journal
• Peace Conference 2026