In this episode of We Are Vineyard, we continue our mini-series around pastoral succession with Super Regional Leader Joel Seymour interviewing Amanda Clark. Amanda shares about being born into a hyper-charismatic healing cult, navigating her relationship with Jesus after leaving that religious group, and her journey into ministry. Amanda and Joel talk through the things her pastor did to prepare the church for her to step into the lead pastor role, some of the challenges in her pastoral transition, and how she cared for her soul during that time. 

Amanda Clark pastors Branches Church in Northern Indiana. She loves Jesus and hands-on culturally relevant ministry. She’s passionate about sharing meals around the table and building community through meaningful relationships. Amanda has been privileged to study the Bible at Northern Seminary and holds a Masters in New Testament Theology.

Amanda is married to Justin, who is a talented video producer, artist, and musician. Justin and Amanda have served in ministry together since 2007, previously serving at Vineyard Community Church in Syracuse, Indiana, and The Vine in Goshen, Indiana. 

When she isn’t prepping for a sermon, you might find her in the kitchen, or at the Farmer’s Market. Amanda enjoys spending time with her parents and her seven siblings, or anyone, really – she’s a people person!

Show Notes: 

Day of Giving: Seed & Soil 

The Gospel People Don’t Want to Hear: Preaching Challenging Messages, Lisa Cressman

Tell Her Story: How Women Led, Taught, and Ministered in the Early Church, Nijay Gupta

We Are Vineyard: Tell Her Story podcast interview with Jay Pathak and Nijay Gupta

Women’s Association Mentoring Opportunities

VineyardUSA Pastoral Health: Coaches & Spiritual Directors

Vineyard History and Identity Resources: 

The Way It Was by Carol Wimber 

The Quest For The Radical Middle by Bill Jackson 

Empowered Evangelicals by Rich Nathan and Ken Wilson

“I’m a Fool For Christ”– John Wimber’s testimony