What's Good?

In a world where many churches struggle to connect with their communities, Second Baptist Church in Memphis stands out as a beacon of hope and clarity. His approach emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships, community engagement, and a deep commitment to faith. In this episode, we’ll explore his insights on leading with conviction and nurturing a vibrant community.

About Reverend Dr. Stephen Cook
Reverend Dr. Stephen Cook is the Senior Pastor of Second Baptist Church, a congregation known for its dedication to community justice and thoughtful faith. With a unique blend of pastoral wisdom and cultural awareness, he helps congregations navigate the complexities of modern faith. His leadership reflects a passion for courageous conversations and fostering meaningful relationships.

One of the key themes in our conversation with Stephen is the significance of community engagement. He emphasizes that his church is not just a place of worship but a vital part of the larger community. Stephen emphasizes that true hospitality goes beyond mere welcome; it involves standing alongside those in need and building lasting relationships.

The church has opened its doors to Afghan refugees, providing them with a space for worship and community connection. This initiative reflects the church's commitment to standing in solidarity with those facing challenges.

Rev. Kristen McAtee is pastor of First Baptist Church in Columbia, Missouri. She has been faithful to her call in ministry that has seen many forms, but now she finds herself in the Senior Pastor role. This is a fun listen as she explains finding her way and her voice!

Michelle knows a little something about helping parents journey through adolescence with their teenagers. Fun fact, a lot about leadership can be informed using many of the same skills. This isn't to suggest you are leading, nor should you treat your team as, children, but rather about communication, self-awareness and good old-fashioned paying attention. 

Join me for this conversation and if you like what you hear, you can find more from Michelle at her website, as well as her books and contact information. Michelle will also be a featured speaker at the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship's Leadership Institute in Jacksonville, FL on June 17,  2027. For more information or to register, click here.

That's right, the next evolution of this podcast is here, and it still focuses on what's good ion the world, in ministry and in church.  Look, by focusing on what's good, we are not saying that things are not hard or difficult or messy. We want to look at where we see some of the best of what's happening in our churches, in our communities, in our neighborhoods, and in our lives. You'll hear stories to inspire and hopefully provoke some imagination as well. Our first episode will be back in your feed on Thursday, May 7th, so let's do it! 

Join me for a conversation as we discuss the fifth and final  question in a series of conversations about how CBF is seeking to serve the interests of and learn from young adults. This final conversation is  with CBF's Young Adult Ministries Manager, Colin Kroll, where we discuss "Why Calling Matters?"

Join me for a conversation as we discuss the fourth  question in a series of conversations about how CBF is seeking to serve the interests of and learn from young adults. This fourth conversation is  with CBF's Congregational Advocacy Manager, Sharon Felton, where we discuss "Why Advocacy Matters?"

Join me for a conversation as we discuss the third  question in a series of conversations about how CBF is seeking to serve the interests of and learn from young adults. This third conversation is  with CBF's Director of Ministerial Transitions, Jay Kieve, where we discuss "Why Biblical Literacy Matters?"

Join me for a conversation as we discuss the second  question in a series of conversations about how CBF is seeking to serve the interests of and learn from young adults. This second conversation is  with CBF's Young Baptist Event Specialist, Alishs Seruyange where we discuss "Why Gathering Matters?"

Join me for a conversation as we discuss the first question in a series of conversations about how CBF is seeking to serve the interests of and learn from young adults. This first conversation is  with CBF's Coordinator of Global Missions, Laura Ayala as we discuss "Why Service Matters?"

Genesis Be is a powerhouse voice in the fight for racial justice, including reconciliation work in her home state of Mississippi. She speaks with a powerful voice but listens and builds bridges even more so.

Beyond that work, she is a creator of beautiful things from her hip-hop albums, children's book, spoken word poetry, painting, and whatever else she sets her mind to! She has a unique gift to prophetically challenge the wrongs in this world while also reminding us of what's good in it too!