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In this World Class episode, Rodney Ragwan highlights the remarkable life and legacy of George Liele (1750–1828) — a man born into slavery who became the first Baptist missionary and a pioneer of global mission long before William Carey sailed for India.

Through this 25-minute reflection, Rodney explores Liele’s theology of freedom, community, and gospel witness among the enslaved in Jamaica, showing how mission often rises from the margins rather than the centers of power.

Listeners will discover how Liele’s story expands our understanding of world Christianity and invites today’s church to re-imagine mission as a movement of hope, resilience, and justice.

To support Rodney’s ongoing work as a Global Servant with International Ministries, and to help make episodes like this possible, visit:https://www.internationalministries.org/rodney-ragwan

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In this episode of World Class, I sit down with Rev. Sali Emmanuel Vemarathnam for an engaging conversation on Gen Z and Digital Discipleship. Together, we explore how today’s generation is navigating faith in a digital age—where screens, social media, and instant connectivity shape identity and community. Rev. Sali brings deep insight into how churches and leaders can meaningfully engage Gen Z, fostering authentic relationships and spiritual growth online and offline. As we talk, we uncover the challenges and exciting opportunities this generation presents for the global church and the future of discipleship.

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In this special episode of World Class, I sit down with Gen Z leaders from South Africa, India, Australia, the USA, and the UK to hear their stories of faith, ministry, and making an impact in their communities. These young voices share how they  navigate challenges and live out their calling in diverse cultural contexts. I also had the privilege of sharing practical insights on “How Do I Read the Bible?”—from simple steps to tools that help make God’s Word a part of daily life.

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In this episode of World Class, Dr. J. Jayakiran Sebastian joins us to reflect on his article “Nicene Faith – Towards a Contemporary Reformed Reading.” Together, we revisit the Council of Nicaea—1700 years ago—and explore why it still matters for the church today.

From empire and power shaping theology in the 4th century to the ongoing struggles of churches in Asia with identity, denominationalism, colonial legacies, economic disparity, and the quest for unity, Dr. Sebastian helps us see how reaching back to Nicaea can provide wisdom for moving forward.

What does it mean to live out Nicene faith in contexts marked by marginalization and pluralism? How can the church reclaim an ecumenical vision of unity while remaining faithful to Christ? Join us for a conversation that connects history, theology, and the realities of the global church today.

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Yuree Lembke’s From Refugee to Missionary: A Journey of Grace and Grit traces her remarkable path from childhood in Burma, through the hardships of life as a refugee in Thailand, to becoming a missionary. She shares vivid memories of growing up amid political unrest, facing hunger, limited education, and uncertainty as a refugee. Through each challenge, Yuree recounts how God’s grace sustained her and how the grit forged in those years prepared her for cross-cultural ministry. Her story is both a testimony of resilience and a call to trust God’s faithfulness in every season.

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In this Season 2 premiere of World Class: Listening. Learning. Living., I sit down with Ashalia Rangiah, a dynamic South African attorney, advocate for justice, and great-great-granddaughter of the pioneering Indian Christian leader, Rev. John Rangiah.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Ashalia reflects on the legacy of her forebear, the first Indian ordained pastor in South Africa and founder of the South African Indian Baptist movement. We explore how his courage and calling continue to shape her own journey in the legal profession and her deep Christian faith.

From generational memory to present-day challenges, Ashalia offers thoughtful insights into heritage, identity, vocation, and the call to live out one’s faith in every sphere of life.

Listen and be inspired by a story that spans continents and generations.

World Class is a podcast that amplifies voices from around the world who embody faith, resilience, and purpose in a rapidly changing world.

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In this timely and powerful episode, Dr. Peter Sensenig shares a compelling vision of Christian peacemaking grounded in Scripture, theology, and real-world experience. He unpacks the rich biblical concept of shalom and calls the church to embody the peace of Christ in a world marked by violence and division. Through stories of reconciliation between Christians and Muslims and reflections on the church’s role in times of war, Dr. Sensenig challenges listeners to embrace courageous, Christ-centered peace witness. A conversation filled with hope, wisdom, and practical guidance for everyday peacemaking.

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In this engaging and insightful episode, Pastors Margaret and Wung Valui share their remarkable journey from the hill regions of Northeast India to pastoral leadership in Silicon Valley. Rooted in a deep call to ministry, they reflect on their theological formation, cross-cultural experiences, and life as a clergy couple serving in one of the world’s most diverse and tech-driven regions.

Together, they offer a compelling look into their church community, where cultures, professions, and faith intersect. They discuss how their Northeast Indian identity shapes their ministry in a secular, fast-paced environment—and how they creatively leverage technology to disciple across cultures. With wisdom and hope, the Valuis affirm the future of the global church and what it means to serve faithfully in a world that is rapidly changing.

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In this engaging episode, artist-theologian Perry Brisbon explores how sound—especially through music and vocal performance—can be a sacred medium for doing theology. Brisbon shares how melody, tone, and timing often reveal deep theological truths beyond what words alone can convey. Drawing from his experience as a worship leader, he reflects on the power of sound to embody Scripture, foster spiritual encounters, and transcend cultural barriers. He also offers practical wisdom on staying grounded amid distractions, emphasizing the importance of preparation, prayer, and faithfulness to the biblical message. For Brisbon, music is more than expression—it is revelation.

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In this powerful episode of The Power of Storytelling, Rev. Terrance Jacob—a South African-born Lutheran pastor serving in the USA—shares transformative stories from his life and ministry. He recalls a childhood experience with his father at a cultural gathering that sparked early awareness of identity and belonging. He also reflects on his time in prison in South Africa, where suffering became a source of strength and purpose. Emphasizing the spiritual depth of storytelling, Rev. Terrance explains how it connects people to God beyond doctrine, much like Jesus’ use of parables. He closes with a moving account of generational legacy, showing how stories can heal, inspire, and unite across all boundaries