In today’s episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss, John Yeager and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith discuss the critical role of youth in the church, exploring the challenges of youth engagement, the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in ministry, and the misconceptions surrounding youth ministry. They are joined by special guest Shannon LeMaster-Smith, who emphasizes the need for churches to empower youth as co-creators in ministry and to adapt to their needs and interests. The conversation also touches on practical approaches to engaging youth and the vision for the future of youth ministry, highlighting the potential for transformation and renewal within the church community.

Chapters

00:00 The Role of Youth in the Church

07:53 Understanding Youth Engagement Challenges

14:39 Authenticity and Vulnerability in Youth Ministry

19:04 Misconceptions in Youth Ministry

29:37 Empowering Youth as Co-Creators

35:30 Practical Approaches to Youth Engagement

51:09 Dreaming of the Future of Youth Ministry

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the importance of failure in personal and spiritual growth. They are joined by Charles DiRico, who shares his journey through the challenges of ordination and how his perceived failures led to significant ministry opportunities. The conversation emphasizes the value of vulnerability, mentorship, and the unexpected blessings that can arise from setbacks. 

In this conversation, Jesse, John and Chris explore the themes of faith, ministry, and the importance of embracing failure and risk-taking in church leadership. They discuss the significance of being open to God's guidance, the value of organic conversations in ministry, and the need to engage with marginalized communities. The dialogue emphasizes the historical roots of Methodism in serving the poor and the necessity of taking ministry beyond the walls of the church to authentically represent the kingdom of God.

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Failure

08:11 Introducing Charles DiRico

15:35 Epic Fails: Personal Stories

20:27 Advice for Navigating Failure

27:40 Embracing Unknown Blessings

29:59 Navigating Open Doors and Opportunities

31:59 Encouraging a Culture of Risk and Failure

34:00 Holy Chaos: Engaging in Community Ministry

38:03 The Importance of Organic Conversations in Ministry

44:01 Rediscovering the Heart of Methodism

50:01 Taking Ministry Beyond Church Walls

On Election Day, we wanted to share something a little bit different. Instead of having a lively conversation with John and Jesse, we are sharing with you a prayer service for peaceful elections that was recorded by our cabinet and some members of the Western North Carolina Conference staff. This service includes a message from Bishop Carter along with scripture readings and prayers. It's a powerful resource that we hope will help to promote a peaceful transition of power at the local, state and federal levels.

As you listen to this, we hope that it brings you some peace in today's anxieties that it helps to foster unity and hope through prayer, that together, we can seek God's guidance for our leaders and communities during this pivotal time.

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Ennis and John Yeager discuss the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and the power of community connection in times of crisis. They are joined by Reverend Sally Queen and Reverend Nathan Arledge, who share their experiences and insights on how their communities responded to the devastation. 

The conversation highlights the importance of being 'helpers' in times of need, the emotional challenges faced by those unaffected by the storm, and the necessity of building and maintaining connections for long-term recovery. They share insights on organizing community support, learning from failures, and understanding the mission of the United Methodist Church in disaster relief. The discussion highlights the power of connection and the need for ongoing engagement in service, encouraging listeners to be proactive in helping others.

Chapters

00:00 The Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

05:48 Community Response and Connection

12:00 Navigating the First 24 Hours

17:57 Building Connections in Crisis

24:00 The Power of Connection and Trust

32:39 The Church as a Healing Presence

34:41 Empowering Resilience in Communities

36:33 The Role of Grace in Service

39:32 Organizing Community Support

42:54 The Importance of Communication in Volunteer Engagement

44:50 Learning from Failure

50:53 Understanding UMCOR's Mission

55:55 The Power of Connection in Service

Links: Hurricane Helene Response, Hurricane Helene Relief Offering

Today’s episode of Means of Grace discusses environmental stewardship through a faith-based lens, emphasizing the theological foundations and practical applications of creation care. Hosts Jesse Enniss, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith and John Yeager explore the distinction between stewardship and dominion over creation, the importance of humility in environmental actions, and the role of faith communities in promoting sustainable practices. Examples of churches integrating creation care, such as First United Methodist Church in Stanley, North Carolina, and Maple Springs United Methodist in Winston-Salem, are highlighted. The conversation also touches on the broader theological implications, the need for theological shifts, and resources for churches to engage in creation care.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:47 Theological Foundations of Environmental Stewardship

09:37 Acting with Humility in Creation Care

12:06 Challenges and Opportunities

15:41 Examples of Environmental Sustainability Initiatives

25:37 Theological Shifts and Resources

42:48 Practical Steps and Future Dreams

43:25 Conclusion and Call to Action

Today we explore the life and legacy of John Wesley, focusing on his early influences, the development of Methodism, and its impact on American Christianity. Hosts Jesse Ennis, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith and John Yeager discuss Wesley's background, his innovative approaches to ministry, and the importance of small group discipleship. They also reflect on Wesley's love for America and how his theology continues to inspire social justice and transformation in the church today.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

00:58 Wesley's Early Life and Background

06:03 The Influence of Background on Religion

08:27 Wesley's Focus on Means of Grace

14:22 Small Group Discipleship and Practical Piety

17:30 Wesley's Emphasis on Social Justice

24:52 Adapting and Innovating in Changing Contexts

29:29 The Future of Methodism in America

30:45 John Wesley's Mission to America

31:53 The Methodist Tradition of Piety, Connection, and Mission

32:53 Adapting and Transforming the Church

33:22 The Legacy of John Wesley

Connect with the Means of Grace Hosts:

John Yeager

[email protected]

Calvary United Methodist Church, Charlotte

IG: @sportstheology85

Jesse Enniss

[email protected]

St. Stephen United Methodist Church, Charlotte 

Jonathan LeMaster-Smith

[email protected] 

Kairos University and Northbrook Charge

jlemaster-smith.com 

FB.com/theruralprofessor

IG and Threads: @Rural_Professor

Fall is here, football is in the air, and the Means of Grace team explores the intersection of sports and faith. Hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith share their favorite teams and the impact of sports on their lives. They also explore the deeper meaning of sports and the opportunities for growth and connection that they provide. The conversation explores the intersection of sports and faith, discussing the communal experience of sports, the role of sports in bringing people together, and the lessons that can be learned from sports about evangelism. 

In this final part of the conversation, the discussion revolves around the intersection of sports and faith. Special guest Nina Miller explores the topic of athletes expressing their faith after games and the balance between predestination and personal responsibility. The conversation concludes with a segment highlighting a wood chopping ministry as an example of a heartwarming ministry found in the Methodist Church.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

00:56 The Intersection of Sports and Faith

06:01 Does God Care About Sports?

16:00 Opportunities for Evangelism in Sports

22:19 Putting Sports in Perspective

25:49 Growth and Reflection in the Intersection of Sports and Faith

28:54 The Communal Nature of Sports and Faith

29:52 The Power of Unity and Belonging in Sports

31:18 Authenticity in Expressing Faith in Sports

43:21 The Impact of Actions in Sports and Faith

50:32 Exploring the Relationship Between Sports and Faith

51:02 Reimagining Evangelism in the World of Sports

52:49 The Future of Sports and Faith

56:32 Sports as a Unifying Force

01:00:40 Engaging in Sports as a Form of Ministry

Visit the North Carolina High School Athletic Association: nchsaa.org

Connect with the Means of Grace Hosts:

John Yeager

[email protected]

Calvary United Methodist Church, Charlotte

IG: @sportstheology85

Jesse Enniss

[email protected]

St. Stephen United Methodist Church, Charlotte 

Jonathan LeMaster-Smith

[email protected] 

Kairos University and Northbrook Charge

jlemaster-smith.com 

FB.com/theruralprofessor

IG and Threads: @Rural_Professor

No man is an island, and no religion exists in a vacuum. Within the US alone, there are more than 200 denominations of Christianity, and many more globally. In today’s episode of Mean of Grace, hosts Jesse Ennis, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith and John Yeager discuss the concept of ecumenism and the importance of unity within the Christian faith. They explore how different Christian denominations can find common ground and work together towards a shared mission of faith and service. 

Joining them in this discussion is Reverend Christopher Harris, Executive Pastor at Crossover Church in Tampa, Florida. Together, they express their hope for a future where Christians of different denominations collaborate and come together for common goals, such as disaster relief, veteran care, and refugee assistance. 

Chapters:

00:00 Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Ecumenism

04:10 Unity in Diversity: Finding Common Ground

07:39 Different Types of Ecumenical Partnerships

12:26 The Importance of Ongoing Dialogue and Collaboration

26:55 Introduction of Christopher Harris

29:45 Engaging Younger Generations in Ecumenical Efforts

34:11 The Importance of Answering Real Questions

37:19 Teaching the Historical Context of Theology

41:35 Dreaming of Collaboration and Church Mergers

44:12 Collaboration and Church Mergers for Greater Impact

46:16 The Significance of Multi-Generational Churches

52:27 The Importance of the Holy Spirit in the Church's Work

In this episode of Means of Grace, hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith explore the concept of unspoken rules and their impact on society. The discussion covers various examples, such as funeral processions, phone etiquette, clergy attire, all the way to some of the most recent changes at the highest levels of the Methodist church. The conversation explores the interplay between rules, traditions, and the larger story of Christianity. The hosts emphasize the importance of engaging with rules and understanding their context and purpose. The hosts also discuss how rules can be flexible and subject to change, and how they are created by people within the community. This episode concludes by encouraging listeners to actively participate in shaping and revising rules for the betterment of the community.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

08:00 Unspoken Rules in Everyday Life

15:16 The Process of Changing Rules in the Methodist Church

23:19 The Inclusion of Youth and Ordination of Women

29:25 Consequences and Ripple Effects of Rule Changes

35:46 The Importance of Diverse Voices in Decision-Making

39:42 Holy Conferencing and the Bible

41:37 God's Rules and the Holy Spirit

45:40 Parenting and Contextual Rules

56:47 Engagement and Dialogue in Shaping Rules

In this episode of Means of Grace, hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith are joined by Kim Ingram, Director of Ministerial Services and former host of the Means of Grace podcast. Together, they discuss the recent post-conference events and their impact on the United Methodist Church. They explore topics such as the future of the church, jurisdictional conferences, bishop elections, and the need for creativity and adaptability in the face of financial challenges. They also highlight the importance of inclusivity and racial equity in leadership positions. The conversation also highlights the resources available for local churches to address issues of anti-racism, anti-immigration xenophobia, and indigenous rights. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Unpacking the Future of the United Methodist Church

02:37 Special Guest and Personal Experiences at the Conferences

06:36 Impact of Conference Decisions on the Local Church

10:45 Renewed Emphasis on Wesleyan Christianity

17:17 Opportunities for Growth and Collaboration

19:44 Regional Delegates

22:06 Continuing the Conversation

24:53 Impact of Recent Conferences on the United Methodist Church

31:02 The Importance of Embracing Change

38:03 Reflecting on Past Changes and Learning from Them

43:52 Change as an Opportunity for Growth and Transformation

46:34 Keeping Christ at the Center of All Decisions and Actions

48:02 Conclusion and Call to Share