Means of Grace

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, we delve into the multifaceted role of Yadkin Valley's new district superintendent, Rev. Dr. Mark Conforti. Join us as we explore how this position blends administration with pastoral care, history with vision, and the strategic with the spiritual. Learn more about the ministries and opportunities of the Yadkin Valley District. Tune in for insights into the heart and mind of a leader committed to nurturing both clergy and laity in their spiritual journeys.

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the importance of connection in ministry, especially during challenging times. They emphasize the need for clergy and lay leaders to engage with their communities, share stories of transformation, and embrace creativity in reimagining congregations. The conversation also highlights the significance of technology and financial stewardship in supporting ministry efforts. Ultimately, the hosts remind listeners that they are not alone in their journey and encourage open communication and connection within the church community.

Bishop Carter's AC2025 Sermon

Bishop Carter's Substack Grinding the Beans United Methodist Foundation of Western NC Website WNCC Leadership Development Website WNCC Social Media Channels

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In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Reverend Jesse Enniss and Reverend John Yeager discuss the intersection of faith and civil disobedience, particularly in the context of the Moral Monday Movement. Special guest Reverend Joel Simpson shares his personal experiences of activism, including his participation in protests and the significance of community engagement in the fight for justice. The conversation highlights the importance of being actively engaged in faith and standing against injustice, encouraging listeners to find their own ways to participate in social activism. They explore historical examples of civil disobedience in the Bible, the role of clergy in advocating for social justice, and the impact of recent budget cuts on vulnerable communities.

Show Notes:

News Story

Poor Man's Campaign

Moral Mondays

Repairers of the Breach Event

In this episode of Means of Grace, host Reverend John Yeager is joined by Bishop Ken Carter and Reverend Kim Ingram to reflect on the recent Annual Conference held at Lake Junaluska. They discuss the significance of the location, the moments of holy conferencing, and the impact of Hurricane Helene on the community. The conversation highlights the importance of youth ministry, the recent uptick in ordinations, and the need for diversity and inclusion within the church. They also address constitutional amendments and the vision for a healing-centered church that prioritizes justice and community connection.

Show Notes:

Beyond 2025

Annual Conference 2025

WNCC Creation Care Ministry

Camps and Retreats

Disaster Ministries

Trauma and Conflict: Resources for Healing

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Reverend Jesse Enniss and Reverend John Yeager celebrate Jesse's graduation from Duke Divinity School and reflect on their experiences in seminary and ministry. The conversation also touches on the ongoing journey of learning and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for clergy in the United Methodist Church. They delve into the significance of ordination and the various amendments being proposed at the upcoming Annual Conference, including issues of inclusiveness, racial justice, and voting qualifications for clergy. The dialogue highlights the need for adaptability within the church while maintaining core beliefs, and the importance of clergy supporting one another in their journeys. Visit ac2025.org for more information on Annual Conference.

Learn more about the AC2025 Constitutional Amendments.

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Reverend Dan Pezet explore the deeper meanings of Easter, emphasizing that it is not merely a celebration of traditions but a profound invitation to embrace hope, transformation, and the reality of resurrection. They discuss the importance of recognizing change in identity, the healing power of letting go, and the necessity for churches to adapt to current realities. The conversation highlights the significance of living as 'resurrection people' and finding joy amidst grief, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace the wisdom of closure and the potential for new beginnings. This conversation explores the themes of change, personal growth, and legacy within church leadership. They discuss the importance of embracing change, the challenges of navigating transitions, and the lessons learned from failures. The conversation culminates in a vision for the church's future, emphasizing the need for connection and collaboration in a rapidly changing landscape.

• You Only Have to Die: Leading Your Congregation to New Life by James A. Harnish
• Means of Grace Ep. 147: Peace Conference 2025 with Beth Crissman

Chapters

03:50 The Ship of Theseus: Identity and Change 09:38 Living as Resurrection People 45:30 Epic Fails 52:42 Dreaming Big for the Future of the Church

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage with Reverend Beth Crissman to reflect on the recent Peace Conference held at Lake Junaluska. They explore the themes of peace, action, reconciliation, and love, emphasizing the importance of confronting discomfort and fostering leadership for future generations. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Peace Conference, its evolution, and the critical role of mentorship in peace building efforts. The episode highlights the necessity of justice in achieving true peace and the challenges that come with it. The conversation explores the themes of inclusivity, confronting Christian nationalism, reflections on the Peace Conference, grassroots community organizing, future visions for peace gatherings, and learning from failures. Rev. Beth Crissman emphasizes the importance of inviting all faiths to the Peace Conference while acknowledging the need for the Christian community to confront its complicity in societal issues. The discussion highlights the success of the recent conference, the significance of grassroots organizing, and the vision for future peace initiatives within the United Methodist Church. Crissman also shares insights on leadership and the importance of learning from past mistakes.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Peace Conference and Its Themes 05:00 The Historical Context and Evolution of the Peace Conference 09:49 Reimagining the Peace Conference for Future Generations 14:59 The Role of Leadership and Mentorship in Peacebuilding 19:58 The Importance of Discomfort in the Journey to Peace 25:51 Inclusivity in the Peace Conference 29:10 Confronting Christian Nationalism 30:11 Reflections on the Peace Conference 36:04 Grassroots Community Organizing 37:26 Vision for Future Peace Conferences 43:40 Learning from Failures

In this episode we revisit a great conversation that continues to edify us during the Lenten season.

In recognition of the Lenten season, Bishop Ken Carter interviews Dr. Clifton Black, an Elder in the Western North Carolina Conference and authority on the Gospel of Mark. A native North Carolinian, Dr. Black talks about the connection the Gospel of Mark has with the Lenten season, as well as what makes it stand out from the other three Gospels of the New Testament.

Learn more about the WNCC 2024 Lenten spiritual practices.

In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage in a heartfelt conversation with Megan Habich, exploring the themes of Lent, wilderness experiences, and personal growth. They discuss the significance of introspection during Lent, the challenges of navigating difficult moments, and the importance of community support. Megan shares her insights on vocational discernment and the future of the church, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift towards recognizing everyone's calling. The conversation highlights the transformative power of embracing vulnerability and the journey of faith.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Wilderness Experience

04:25 Understanding Lent and Its Significance

10:04 Navigating Wilderness Moments

15:10 The Importance of Being Present

21:19 Overcoming Resistance to Introspection

25:50 Growing Through Adversity

27:39 Introspection and Personal Growth

29:52 The Journey of Parenthood

33:23 Embracing Control and Fear

38:39 Dreams for the Future of the Church

44:57 Strangely Heartwarming Stories

45:39 Epic Fails and Lessons Learned

46:58 Embracing Wilderness Moments