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37: Where We Are Planted With Jolene Ray

Summary

In this episode of The Grace Raised Podcast, host Riah Jaffrey interviews Jolene Ray, a pastor's wife and mother of seven, about her journey of faith, balancing family life with ministry, and the importance of community. Jolene shares her spiritual awakening, the challenges of balancing homeschooling and how she navigates serving in the church while raising her children. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mentorship, trusting God in our callings, and the role of mothers in ministry, encouraging listeners to find balance and support within their communities.

Resources:

Titus 2:4-5

Ephesians 5:22

About

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

Summary

In this episode of the Grace Raised podcast, Riah and Alex Jaffrey reflect on their 13-year marriage journey, discussing the challenges, growth, and faith that have shaped their relationship. They share personal stories about their early years, the struggles with intimacy, long-distance relationships, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, trust, and the role of faith in navigating the complexities of marriage, ultimately celebrating their commitment to each other and their family.

About

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

Summary

In this episode of the Grace Raised podcast, Riah and Alex Jaffrey reflect on their 13-year marriage journey, discussing the challenges, growth, and faith that have shaped their relationship. They share personal stories about their early years, the struggles with intimacy, long-distance relationships, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, trust, and the role of faith in navigating the complexities of marriage, ultimately celebrating their commitment to each other and their family.

About

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

Summary

In this episode of The Grace Raised Podcast, host Riah Jaffrey welcomes Jessie McCormack for a heartfelt conversation about her ministry journey, the challenges faced by disenfranchised communities, and the importance of community support. Jessie shares her experiences from a recent mission trip to the Dominican Republic, where she aims to help a young man named Caleb improve his living conditions. We delve into Jesse's personal faith journey, her cultural identity, and her passion for serving others as well as discussing the heart of staying in the word. 

Jessie McCormick

Jessie is a passionate storyteller, faith leader, and cultural bridge-builder rooted in her Puerto Rican and Dominican heritage. With a heart for discipleship, Ministry, and service, she shares devotionals and testimonies in both English and now Spanish to uplift and equip diverse communities. Jessie is also a dedicated student of Ministry Leadership as well as a range of languages like Haitian Creole, deepening her commitment to unity across cultures through language, faith, and mission.

About Blessed Journey

Blessed Journey is a community-driven initiative founded by Jessie to share the love of Christ through testimonies, teaching, and tangible acts of service. Rooted in faith and cultural compassion, Blessed Journey mobilizes support for under-resourced families—like helping rebuild homes in the Dominican Republic and spreads gospel-centered encouragement across linguistic and cultural lines. It’s more than a ministry; it’s a movement of hope.

Resources

Give to Support Caleb

https://www.givesendgo.com/BuildHopeForCaleb?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=post&utm_campaign=BuildHopeForCaleb&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAR73cPLDqGT1_aySyL0LfcWeVd-OQnJxfCeMw5Z_Qx-tapeCa9pxqzq0uqLXeg_aem_hzrbdiQHcNquGETXjTvS3g

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083484025840 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bles.sedjourney/?hl=en

About

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

Summary
In this episode of the Grace Raised podcast, host Riah Jaffrey speaks with Rhonda Sperrey, a public school superintendent, about her journey in education, her faith, and how she navigates her role in the public sphere. Rhonda shares her experiences transitioning from teaching to administration, the challenges she faced, and how her faith has guided her through difficult times. They discuss the importance of grace in parenting, the impact of public versus private education, and redefine what ministry looks like beyond traditional roles. Rhonda emphasizes that every individual has influence and that ministry is about living out one's faith in everyday life.

Rhonda Sperrey
Rhonda Sperrey is a seasoned educational leader with over 25 years of experience in public school administration. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of New Brunswick and a master's degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Maine. For the past 11 years, Rhonda has served as superintendent of schools in her current district, where she leads with vision, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to student success. Known for her wisdom, integrity, and deep-rooted faith, Rhonda brings a thoughtful perspective to conversations about leadership, education, family, and the power of community.

Resources
Philippians 2:1-10
Ephesians 4:11-12
Colossians 3:23
1 Peter 4:10-11

About
Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

About 

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

Lindsay Whitty

Lindsay Whitty is a follower of Christ, wife to Ian of almost 10 years, and dog mom of 5 living in beautiful Dedham, Maine. She has attended the same church for the past two decades, where she's served everywhere from children's and youth to cafe and women's ministry. Lindsay is a Commercial Portfolio Manager for a local bank and recent graduate of Rock School of Ministry's two-year ministry training program. Her passion lies in discipleship, the local church, and seeing fellow believers grow more in love with God. She is a lover of all things Fall, buffalo plaid, chats with friends at Starbucks, summer bonfires and beachwalks, Trader Joe's, road trips to any beach along the East Coast, and sappy Christmas Hallmark movies.

Summary

In this episode of The Grace Raised Podcast, host Riah Jaffrey speaks with Lindsay Whitty about her profound journey of faith, loss, and healing. Lindsay shares her experiences growing up in a Christian home, the challenges she faced during her husband's battle with cancer, and the deep grief that followed his passing. Throughout their conversation, they explore themes of surrendering to God, the importance of honesty in prayer, and finding peace amidst fear and anxiety. Lindsay emphasizes the power of thanksgiving and the grace of God in navigating life's trials, ultimately highlighting the unchanging nature of God's love and support.

Resources

Safe All Along book

https://www.amazon.com/Safe-All-Along-Anxieties-Unshakable/dp/0593445112

Anxious study

https://www.amazon.com/Anxious-Bible-Access-Fighting-Anxiety/dp/1087733863

Get out of your Head book

https://www.amazon.com/Get-Out-Your-Head-Stopping/dp/1601429649

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

About

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

Bekah York

I was born in New Brunswick, Canada to two loving, Christian parents. I became a Christian at a young age. We moved around a lot while I was young before finally settling down in Bangor, ME. I went to Berkshire Institute for Christian Studies and then transferred to Lancaster Bible College to complete my degree in both Bible and Music Education. I came back to Maine, worked as a music teacher(2013-2019), got married(June 2016), and started having babies in 2019.  I have been a stay-at-home mom ever since, and I absolutely love it! 

Summary

In this episode, Bekah shares her profound journey of faith through heartbreak, health challenges, and the lessons learned along the way. From her early experiences of trusting God during a broken engagement to facing a brain tumor diagnosis, Becca emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God's will and finding joy in His presence amidst suffering. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the transformative power of faith.

Resources:

It's Not Supposed to Be This Way: Finding Unexpected Strength When Disappointments Leave You Shattered by Lysa TerKeurst

Suffering is Never for Nothing Elisabeth Elliot

James 1:1-12

Phillipians 4:6-7

Exodus 14:14

Isaiah 46:3-4

Elisabeth Eliot Podcast

Bekah York Quotes

“I have learned that suffering can even be a privilege”

“People have told me I’m strong. But no, His grace is sufficient for me.”

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

About: 

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

Riah Jaffrey

Riah is the host of the Grace Raised Podcast and visionary for the Grace Raised Ministry. She spends her free time raising ducks, writing poetry, and caring for her community alongside her husband of 13 years, and four children. Though she has spent the last 20 years studying scripture and is a graduate of the Rock School of Ministry, it was not through academia she came to know the heart of Christ. She discovered her living relationship with Him not in the books and religious studies but through great loss, hardship, and heartbreak.

​

"I would rather have nothing and have Jesus; for even the greatest treasures of this world are meaningless compared to Christ. In Him, there is fullness of joy and glory beyond all imagination."

Pastor Billy Alley:

Married Father of 3 Boys, Follower of Christ for Almost 30 years. Full Time Pastor at The Rock Church in Bangor Maine. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@pastor_kickinwithjesus?_t=ZT-8ulG8HUtLJu&_r=1

Summary

In this episode of the Grace Raised Podcast, host Riah Jaffrey and Pastor Billy Alley delve into the importance of healing from past traumas and the role of mentorship in spiritual growth. They discuss the significance of understanding one's personality and how it affects interactions with others, emphasizing the need for intentional change. The conversation highlights the transformative power of surrendering to God and trusting in His plan, leading to freedom and peace. The episode concludes with a call to action for mature Christians to mentor others, fostering a supportive community within the church.

Resources:

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

Chapters

00:00 Healing from the Past

10:26 The Role of Mentorship in Growth

20:57 Understanding Personality and Change

26:04 The Importance of Surrender

32:02 Transformation Through Trust

Support the show

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

About: 

Join Riah Jaffrey for a podcast series where we draw on our personal stories, examine the truth of God’s word, and identify the lies, false identities, and unbiblical beliefs that keep us from walking whole heartedly in the power of our new life through the gift of Grace in Jesus. Join us as we share what it is to walk in relationship with Jesus; where we discover new life in death and step into the supernatural power of God’s Grace and Glory. 

Riah Jaffrey

Riah is the host of the Grace Raised Podcast and visionary for the Grace Raised Ministry. She spends her free time raising ducks, writing poetry, and caring for her community alongside her husband of 13 years, and four children. Though she has spent the last 20 years studying scripture and through educational ministry opportunities, it was not through academia she came to know the heart of Christ. She discovered her living relationship with Him not in the books and religious studies but through great loss, hardship, and heartbreak.

​"I would rather have nothing and have Jesus; for even the greatest treasures of this world are meaningless compared to Christ. In Him, there is fullness of joy and glory beyond all imagination."

Pastor Billy Alley:

Married Father of 3 Boys, Follower of Christ for Almost 30 years. Full Time Pastor at The Rock Church in Bangor Maine. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@pastor_kickinwithjesus?_t=ZT-8ulG8HUtLJu&_r=1

Summary

On this episode of the Grace Raised Podcast, host Riah Jaffrey interviews Pastor Billy Alley, who shares his unique journey of faith, growing up in Maine, and the cultural influences that shaped his worldview. Pastor Billy discusses his late entry into ministry, the importance of community and relationships in faith, and the transformative power of surrendering to God. He emphasizes the significance of serving in the church and how personal growth often comes through challenges and accountability within a community. The conversation highlights the need for connection and the role of the church in fostering relationships among believers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Pastor Billy's Journey

01:07 Growing Up in Maine: Culture and Faith

04:39 The Path to Christianity: A Personal Testimony

09:24 The Impact of Community and Relationships

16:17 Surrendering to God: A Turning Point

22:29 The Importance of Serving in the Church

28:58 Navigating Personal Growth and Challenges

37:44 Conclusion and Future Conversations

Support the show

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.

Send a Text Message today!

Summary

In this episode, Riah Jaffrey interviews Emily Carney, who shares her powerful testimony of faith and personal growth following a car accident involving her son. Emily discusses her journey of understanding faith, the impact of suffering, and how she found God through her experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of community, gratitude, and the transformative power of faith in navigating life's challenges.

Takeaways

Emily's son was involved in a car accident that deeply affected their family.

Listening to Riah's podcast was a pivotal moment for Emily's faith journey.

Emily had never fully given her struggles to God until recently.

The importance of gratitude and mindfulness in overcoming anxiety.

Emily's background included a strong foundation of spirituality and kindness from her parents.

The connection between suffering and personal growth in faith.

Community support plays a crucial role in spiritual development.

Emily's experience with loss has shaped her understanding of faith.

The journey of faith is not linear; it includes ups and downs.

God orchestrates events in our lives for a greater purpose. 

Resources:

Uninvited Lisa Tyrsket

When you Pray: A Study of Six Prayers in the Bible

by Kelly Minter, Jackie Hill Perry, Jen Wilkin, Jennifer Rothschild, Jada Edwards, and Kristi McLelland

Genesis 50:20

Romans 2:28“God works all things together for our good”

Episode: The Old and the New

Support the show

If you would like to share your story you can submit a request on our website at thegraceraisedpodcast.com, or send us an email at [email protected]. If you would like to donate to help support the ministry you can click the donate link in the show notes or go to thegraceraisedpodcast.com/donate.