What Is It?

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Manna University's Ministry Chair & alum, Dr. Josh Thomas in this special Christmas episode, as they unpack the true theological meaning of Christmas and why it matters for today’s Christian leaders. Josh shares how understanding the depth of the Christmas story shapes the way Manna U professors teach, guide, and inspire their students throughout the year.

They explore how Manna University equips students, especially those in Ministry and Pastoral Counseling, to enter their cultural contexts with the Gospel just as Christ entered our world. Josh also highlights how the university forms leaders with both conviction and competence by grounding education in the biblical truths found in the Nativity story.

Finally, Josh walks through the impact of the Leadership in Action (LIA) program, sharing real examples of how students put classroom learning into practice during the Christmas season. Discover how Manna U empowers graduates to advance the Kingdom of God wherever they serve—whether in churches, nonprofits, or the marketplace.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Manna Church’s Lead Pastor, Christopher Fletcher, as they talk about one of the church’s most impactful annual events—the Reach Out Celebration (ROC)—and how Manna University plays a vital role in its mission.

Pastor Chris shares his journey in leadership and how Manna University has helped equip him to lead with vision and purpose. Together, we explore how Manna U’s educational approach prepares students not just academically, but spiritually and missionally to make a difference in their communities and beyond.

From education to action, discover how Manna University and the Reach Out Celebration partner to educate, equip, and empower a new generation of missionaries and church leaders to change the world.

Manna Church Fayetteville/Ft. Bragg: https://fayftbragg.manna.church/

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Jeff Christensen as they dive into the history and impact of the Reformation and its lasting influence on how Christians live, learn, and lead today. Together, they unpack what the Reformation was, why it mattered, and how its core principles still shape the mission of Manna University.

From the call to integrate theology into everyday life, to the biblical vision of the "priesthood of all believers," they explore how these ideas continue to inform Manna U’s approach to educating and equipping leaders for both church and marketplace.

They also reflect on how the Reformation brought both positive change—like literacy and accessibility of Scripture—and challenges, offering lessons for today’s leaders navigating cultural upheaval. Listeners will hear how Manna U empowers students to rise with resilience, creativity, and effective biblical leadership in a rapidly changing world.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Sadé Wilson as she shares her unique journey as both a proud alum of Manna University and the MC for the annual Dream Run 5K. Sadé reflects on how her time at Manna U shaped her career path, equipped her for opportunities after graduation, and empowered her to embrace challenges with confidence.
She also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the honor of serving as MC for the Dream Run—what it means to her personally, how it impacts participants and spectators, and why events like the Dream Run are vital for building community and supporting the mission of Manna University.
Whether you’re a student, alum, or first-time runner, this episode will inspire you to see how education, preparation, and empowerment can impact lives both on and off the racecourse.
Register for our Dream Run 5K: www.manna.edu/dream-runHabitudes Book by Dr. Tim Elmore: https://a.co/d/8YPORLd

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Stefanie Ertel, Executive Director of Academics at Manna University, to explore how academics serve as a foundation to educate, equip, and empower. Stefanie shares her journey to leadership, insights on how academic training shapes Christian leaders, and how Manna U prepares students not just for the classroom—but for real-world impact.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Daniel McBride as he shares about his recent mission trip to Havana, Cuba. Hear how the trip reflects Manna U’s core values—Educate, Equip, and Empower—and how students are prepared to serve and lead on the mission field. From overcoming fears to sharing the Gospel with confidence, Daniel offers real insights for anyone considering missions.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Sherita Brooks, a student at Manna University, as they talk about her education journey after years away. She shares why she chose Manna U, how serving in the Student Government Association has equipped her, and how she's balancing school, work, family, and ministry. Sherita also reflects on how Manna University has empowered her—and how she’s now empowering others through her growth and leadership.

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Dr. Carlo Serrano, as they explore the heart behind Educate, Equip, Empower—three pillars that shape the journey to Commencement. Discover why Commencement is seen as the “Super Bowl” of the university, how leadership equips not just students but staff, and what it truly means to empower the next generation toward their calling.

Want to register for classes? Visit www.manna.edu and apply today!

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie and this episode's co-host, Dr. Natasha Tubbs, as they dive into the importance of education, equipping, and empowering others in the context of Easter and Apologetics. They explore key insights about the Resurrection of Christ, how apologetics strengthens faith, and how believers can be better equipped to address common objections. Check it out to hear them discuss how to educate, equip, and empower others to confidently defend and live out their faith.

#Inheritance

Interested in taking some classes? Visit www.manna.edu/apply and apply today!

Join Manna U alum and staff member, Dee Bowie, and this episode's co-host, Andrew Sutton, as Andrew reflects on his journey with Manna University, from its roots as Grace College of Divinity to its current form. He shares how his time at Manna U shaped his ability to educate, equip, and empower others, how he's using what he learned to lead and mentor those around him, and how he empowers others in his role as a pastor.Interested in our Golf Tournament? Visit https://manna.edu/golf-tournament to register today!