The Circuit

The podcast episode is a special broadcast featuring representatives from various congregations around Cedar Creek Lake. The host, Rob Risko, introduces the episode as the season finale for season two, focusing on positive stories of hope, transformation, and healing. The discussion includes representatives from various churches sharing their experiences and the impact of their ministries, including food pantries, community projects, and special worship services. The episode emphasizes the importance of laity in church activities and highlights various community outreach efforts, including the 821 Project, backpack programs, and the Red Tie Gala. The conversation also touches on the challenges and hopes for the future, particularly in engaging younger generations and addressing community needs. The episode concludes with a prayer, inviting listeners to explore the participating churches and engage in discipleship.

In this episode of the Circuit Podcast, hosts Rob Risko and Pastor Wayne Walters welcome Kara Vallines, a local music educator and community figure. They discuss Kara's journey from a shy child in Mabank to a successful music teacher and the founder of Music Play Love. The conversation explores the importance of music education, the impact of technology on music, and the need for community support in the arts. Kara shares her experiences teaching music online during the pandemic and her vision for making music education accessible to all. The episode concludes with advice for aspiring musicians and information on how to connect with Kara's work.

The Circuit podcast, hosted by Market Street UMC, featured Deacon John Dellis, a native of Mabank, Texas, and lifelong member of Four Mile Lutheran Church, the oldest ELCA congregation in Texas (founded in 1848). The conversation explored the rich history of Four Mile, its immigrant roots, and its role as a longstanding faith community alongside newer congregations like Market Street UMC.

Deacon Dellis shared his personal story, growing up in Mabank with deep Lutheran ties, receiving early encouragement from his home church, and later experiencing formative moments in Lutheran Campus Ministry at Baylor University and Trinity Lutheran Seminary. Though he never felt called to be a parish pastor, Dellis discerned his vocation as a deacon—a role in the ELCA that emphasizes ministry of word and service, especially at the intersection of church and community. His career included communications roles at St. Luke’s Lutheran Hospital in San Antonio and Texas Lutheran University, as well as his current service in legacy generosity foundations.

This conversation explores the journey of Celebration on the Lake. This church has evolved over 20 years to become a welcoming space for the LGBTQ community and others seeking spiritual connection. Bradley Scott, the board chair, shares insights into the church's origins, community outreach efforts, and the challenges faced by small congregations. The discussion highlights the importance of inclusivity, the role of allies, and the need for continued growth and the inclusion of new members. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology on worship and the church's commitment to addressing homelessness and community needs.

This episode features Randy Squib, President of Kaufman County Children's Advocacy Center, and Shannon Gardner, the Executive Director.

In this episode of the Circuit we explore college readines and tips for students including faith formation and the importance of connection.

In this episode, The Circuit hosts Michael Rowland, High School Principal at Mabank. Topics discuss his background and pressing issues in education, including those affecting the state and the school district.

This episode explores the Kairos ministry through an interview with retired police officer Bill Shehee. Please take time to listen to this story of hearts transformed throught the power of Christ.

In this episode, The Circuit hosts Pastor Vic Casad and tells the story of Market UMC and how the experience of a new church start led to a feeling of Pentecost and desire to share the Good News!

A recording to accompany the Stations of the Cross for Market Street UMC during Holy Week 2025.