Means of Grace

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

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the themes of humility, connection, and community as they reflect on the past year and look forward to 2026. They emphasize the importance of letting go of unrealistic expectations and perfectionism while embracing change and experimentation in ministry. The conversation also highlights the church's role in society, the need for intentional spiritual life, and the power of asking for help. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to engage in public witness for the common good and to support one another in their journeys of faith.

Show Notes:

• Bishop Carter shares his monthly pastoral letter and calendar with the WNCC.
• Human Relations Sunday - January 18th
• Equip & Connect in-person district gatherings will be happening on January 25th.
• Register for the 2026 Peace Conference coming up in March.
• Register for the Grant Skill Builder webinar happening later this month.

Chapters

00:00 New Beginnings and Reflections for 2026 02:09 Understanding the Calendar: The Significance of 2026 07:08 What to Carry into 2026: Humility and Connection 12:25 Embracing Change: Letting Go of the Old 18:35 The Importance of Experimentation in Ministry 24:05 Adjusting Expectations: Meeting People Where They Are 30:32 Navigating First Impressions in Church 33:31 The Challenge of Welcoming Newcomers 35:27 Understanding Growth and Community Dynamics 38:25 Innovative Ministry Approaches 39:56 Letting Go of Shame and Embracing Vulnerability 47:59 Intentional Spiritual Life and Community Engagement 48:12 Conference Announcements 50:30 Intentional Spiritual Life and Community Engagement Continued 57:47 The Power of Asking for Help 01:02:05 MOG-Like and Subscribe

Thank you for all your support throughout 2025. To end the year, we've compiled a few of our most inspirational stories. We look forward to bringing you more episodes in 2026!

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Rev. Dr. Luke Edwards reflect on the importance of being present for the vulnerable, particularly immigrants facing legal and social challenges. They discuss the launch of the Immigrant Ministry Crisis Fund by the Western North Carolina Conference, aimed at providing support to immigrant families in need. The conversation emphasizes the role of the church in advocating for justice, offering compassion, and creating a welcoming community for those in distress. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in meaningful support and accompaniment of their immigrant neighbors.

Show Notes:

• WNCC Immigrant Ministry Crisis Fund
• Conference Board of Pension and Health Benefits Contributes $100,000 to Support Immigrant Ministry Crisis Fund
• The Listening Church

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the vital role of appreciation in ministry with Reverend Sally Queen, who shares her experiences as a district superintendent. The conversation explores the challenges faced by churches today, the importance of recognizing and valuing clergy, and practical ways for congregations to show appreciation. The episode emphasizes that gratitude is essential for fostering relationships and supporting mental health within the church community. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the profound impact of community support, the importance of acknowledgment in relationships, and the need for clergy to humanize themselves by sharing vulnerabilities. They explore the significance of timely gratitude and the lasting effects of kind words. The discussion also highlights the value of lay leadership and the vision for a welcoming future in the church, emphasizing that appreciation is a continuous practice that sustains relationships and ministry.

Announcements

Clergy Day Apart - Thursday, Oct. 10, 2025

An Advent Retreat with Dr. Cynthia Weems: For Students, Teachers and Preachers of the Bible - Thursday, Nov. 13

The Serve Well newsletter on Clergy Appreciation

eLead on Church Staff Appreciation Month

Summary

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, John and Jesse host Rev. Pam Carter, Wanda Musgrave and Rev. Wayner Dickert who discuss the complex realities of Haiti, the legacy of Dr. Maklin Eugene, and the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. They share personal stories of connection, resilience, and the ongoing challenges faced by the Haitian people. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building relationships, learning from failures, and continuing the work that Dr. Eugene started, even in his absence. The guests reflect on their experiences in Haiti, the joy found in the communities, and the hope for the future as they honor Dr. Eugene's legacy.

Dr. Eugene Maklin: A Tireless Healer, Visionary Leader, and Beloved Friend

Partners 4 Hope