In the latest episode of the "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast," host Rev. Dr. Kent Lundy invites listeners to join him at St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana, where he engages in a heartfelt conversation with the senior pastor, Rev. Tom DeFries. The goal of this podcast is to foster connections among the clergy and congregations of the North District, and this episode does just that by taking us through Rev. DeFries' 12-year journey at St. Paul's and sharing the vibrant life of the church community.

The conversation kicks off with a discussion about what brings joy to Pastor Tom's life. Aside from family, he finds immense joy in the annual Christmas shop hosted by the church. This year, the initiative is set to brighten Christmas for 137 children who otherwise might not celebrate at all. The church community comes together selflessly, with about 40-50 volunteers participating, and this act of service brings an irreplaceable joy to Rev. DeFries and sets a tone of compassion and generosity.

One of the most captivating parts of the episode is when Rev. DeFries shares the moment he knew he was called to vocational ministry. At the tender age of 9 or 10, he had a profound spiritual experience in a reformed church in his hometown of DeMotte, Indiana, which marked the beginning of his lifelong journey in ministry. Initially, young Tom was hesitant, believing the misconception that pastors don’t have fun. Yet, he recalls with a smile how his childhood sermons to his brothers in their family basement laid the groundwork for his future calling.

Here are three takeaway points from this episode:

1 Joy in Service: The joy Rev. DeFries experiences through serving others, especially through the church's annual Christmas shop, emphasizes the fulfillment found in selfless acts of kindness and community service.

2 Early Calling: The story of his calling to ministry underscores the importance of nurturing spiritual experiences at a young age. This early encounter with God’s call can have a lifelong impact.

3 Balancing Ministry and Personal Life: Rev. DeFries talks about the significance of his family room, which, though ordinary in appearance, holds extraordinary value due to the quality time spent there. It's a reminder of the need for pastors to have a sanctuary away from their demanding roles.

Throughout the episode, Rev. DeFries emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with Jesus and trusting in the congregational journey. His commitment to love, service, and community underpins his ministry's legacy. As a fitting closure to this heartfelt discussion, Rev. Dr. Kent Lundy prays for Rev. DeFries' continued journey at St. Paul’s, reflecting the deep sense of connection and shared faith that Pulpit Perspectives Podcast aims to foster.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this heartwarming and insightful episode of “Pulpit Perspectives,” we join Reverend Doctor Kent Lundy as he hosts the Pulpit Perspectives Podcast. Broadcasting from the sanctuary of Trinity on Jackson United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana, Kent engages with Deacon Lori Grasty, a devoted servant who has dedicated 14 years to the congregation, with the last five years under appointment.

Lori's journey into ministry is a compelling narrative, steeped in perseverance, faith, and passion. Initially involved in Upward Ministry and Christian programming at the YMCA, Lori shares a profound dream that steered her pathway towards serving as a deacon. It's a classic tale of divine intervention and self-discovery, which began with a prophetic dream that prompted her to fully embrace her pastoral calling.

One of the standout elements in this episode is Lori's extensive involvement in children's ministry. Serving as the "Children Matter Most Coordinator" for the district and the "Growing Young Specialist" for the conference, she highlights her love for working creatively with kids through various initiatives like summer camps and creative arts camps. Her commitment to fostering a nurturing environment where children and families thrive is both inspiring and noteworthy.

Here are a few key takeaways from this episode:

1 The Call to Ministry:

⦁ Lori's dream is an extraordinary testimony to how callings can manifest uniquely. Her story emphasizes the importance of being open to divine signs and the transformative journey they can initiate.

2 Support Systems in Ministry:

⦁ Lori celebrates the extensive support from her family and church community. She underscores the significance of having a robust support network that champions one's ministry call and personal growth.

3 Value of Patience and Stillness:

⦁ She highlights the necessity of patience in ministry. By sharing how she has learned to be still and wait for God's timing, Lori's experience serves as a vital lesson on the value of taking measured, prayerful steps in one's ministerial journey.

4 Creating Joyful, Authentic Community:

⦁ Lori’s vision for her legacy revolves around fostering a joyful, authentic, and connected community. She wants the church to be a place where people, particularly children and families, experience joy, fun, and a sense of belonging without the pressure of being perfect.

5 Camp Lakewood:

⦁ This ordinary place turned extraordinary for Lori, highlighting how consistent engagement in a familiar setting can foster profound spiritual growth and transformation.

Join us as Lori and Kent deep dive into the facets of the ministry that make it a fulfilling and challenging vocation. Their conversation is a rich exploration of faith, community, and the unique journeys that shape our spiritual lives. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone involved in or considering a path in ministry.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this episode of Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, Reverend Doctor Kent Lundy welcomes Reverend Chris Stephens from the Nappanee United Methodist Church. With only five months into his journey at Nappanee UMC, Chris shares his experiences, joys, challenges, and aspirations as a new pastor.

A notable theme of the episode centers around the idea of new beginnings. Chris, still within his "honeymoon period" at Nappanee, candidly discusses the learning curve he's navigating, from getting acquainted with the congregation to, quite humorously, finding all the light switches in the church. This season of adaptability underscores the importance of resilience and openness in ministry.

Takeaway #1: Finding Joy in Family and Ministry

Throughout the discussion, Chris emphasizes the joy his children bring to his life. With three kids aged 11, 4, and 2, Chris often finds himself balancing full-time ministry with lively family dynamics. Despite the busyness, he finds profound joy in nurturing the next generation. This segment highlights the essential balance between personal life and vocational ministry, emphasizing that joy can be found in the simplest, most personal moments.

Takeaway #2: Answering the Call to Serve

Chris recounts his early sense of calling to vocational ministry, which he initially resisted by pursuing a career in engineering. However, even during his time in engineering school, the call to ministry resurfaced in a profound way, leading him back to his true vocation. This journey reflects a powerful message: one's calling can be persistent and transformative, and sometimes, aligning with it might require detours and epiphanies.

Takeaway #3: The Importance of Support and Community

Drawing a vivid comparison with a basketball game, Kent asks Chris about his "home court advantage" in ministry. Chris credits his family and a "great cloud of witnesses," including former pastors and Sunday school teachers, as his primary cheerleaders. This underscores the vital role of communal support in sustaining a thriving ministry. Chris's legacy aspiration of instilling "joy, community, and love" within his congregation further reinforces this point.

Takeaway #4: Embracing Nature for Spiritual Rejuvenation

Chris finds solace and rejuvenation in nature, particularly in national parks like Teddy Roosevelt National Park. His love for nature is deeply tied to his spiritual renewal, showcasing that sometimes, the best way to recharge is by stepping away from daily stressors and immersing oneself in the tranquility of creation.

Takeaway #5: Lessons Learned: The Power of Saying No

One of the most profound lessons Chris shares is the importance of setting boundaries in ministry. He discusses the necessity of saying "no" to some things to say "yes" to what truly matters. This lesson, linked to preventing burnout and ensuring sustainable ministry, is a crucial takeaway for clergy and laypeople alike.

Join us in this heartfelt and insightful episode as Reverend Chris Stevens shares his journey and wisdom, offering a blend of humor, sincerity, and inspiration. Tune in to Pulpit Perspectives Podcast to hear more about how Chris is shaping his legacy at Nappanee United Methodist Church with joy, community, and love.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this heartfelt episode of the "Pulpit Perspectives" podcast, Host Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy welcomes Pastor Bette Thompson from the Jamestown United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana. As she celebrates her first anniversary with the church, Pastor Bette offers listeners a profound glimpse into her joys, struggles, and enduring faith journey in a spirited and illuminating discussion.

From the very outset, Pastor Bette’s vibrant spirit shines through. She finds her greatest joy in witnessing the congregation's attentive, smiling faces and engaging deeply with the children during Sunday services. By sharing these moments, she reveals a central takeaway for all to ponder: True joy in ministry comes from the connection and shared experiences with one’s congregation.

Pastor Bette's path to ministry wasn't straightforward. She recounts how her curiosity about the life of a pastor led her to vocational ministry, thanks in part to the mentorship she received at Mishawaka First United Methodist Church and a pivotal experience at Senior High Institute at Epworth Forest. This journey underscores a key takeaway: Mentorship and authentic encouragement within the local church are vital in nurturing the next generation of spiritual leaders.

In a more whimsical segment, Dr. Lundy asks Pastor Bette whom she would take for an imaginary axe-throwing session. Her choice, the Apostle Paul, provides insight into her admiration for his dogged determination and unwavering focus on Christ, even in adversity. This engaging analogy brings home another important takeaway: Drawing strength and inspiration from biblical figures can bolster and guide one's ministry today.

Pastor Bette also shares some personal wisdom about the need for patience in ministry, learned through the rigors of pastoral work. Recognizing and respecting the congregation's pace of transformation is essential— a lesson that came the hard way. This serves as a reflective takeaway: Patience and empathy are crucial in guiding a congregation through change and transformation.

Toward the end of the episode, when asked to encapsulate her ministry legacy in three words, Pastor Bette chooses "Love with Passion." She elaborates on this by emphasizing the importance of unconditional love—for others and oneself. In her words, loving fully, even in quiet moments when no one is watching, is central to her message. This provides a final and resonant takeaway: The essence of enduring ministry is to love with authenticity and passion, bringing forth God's love in every interaction.

Tune in to this inspiring episode for an enriching conversation that encourages both clergy and laity to find joy, patience, and passionate love in their spiritual journeys. Catch the full episode now and be uplifted by Pastor Bette's genuine warmth and insightful wisdom.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this insightful episode of "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast," host Kent Lundy sits down with Pastor Larry Chrisman from Coalbush United Methodist Church in the North District for a candid conversation about his journey into vocational ministry, the joy of witnessing faith-sharing within his congregation, and the experiences that have shaped his pastoral mission.

Pastor Larry Chrisman opens the discussion by sharing the profound joy he derives from watching his church members actively engage in faith outreach. He passionately describes how seeing parishioners invite others to church services and share their personal faith stories has been a transformative and uplifting experience for him. This joy fuels his commitment to fostering a community where faith is not just a private affair but a shared journey.

One of the pivotal moments in Pastor Larry’s life was his unexpected call to ministry. From an early age, Chrisman believed he was destined to become a priest, a conviction instilled by his mother. However, his life's trajectory took a significant turn when he met his wife during a retreat at the age of 15. This encounter led him to leave behind his aspirations of priesthood and eventually find a new calling within the United Methodist Church. Through a serendipitous invitation to play bass in a worship band, Pastor Larry’s path to ministry became clear, leading him to full-time pastoral work under the mentorship of Pastor Bob Vale.

Here are key takeaway points from the episode:

Faith in Action: Pastor Larry emphasizes the importance of church members being active in their faith, encouraging them to invite others and share their spiritual journeys. He believes that personal invitations can significantly impact church growth and community building.

Unexpected Callings: Highlighting his own journey, Pastor Larry illustrates how life’s unexpected twists can lead to profound vocational callings. His transition from aspiring Catholic priest to Methodist pastor underscores the mysterious and often surprising ways in which life unfolds.

Ministry and Family: Larry treasures the support and involvement of his family, particularly his wife, who is his loudest cheerleader and his barometer in sermon preparation. The tight-knit bond between their families enriches his pastoral life.

Community Engagement: His tenure at First United Methodist Church of South Bend introduced him to working with the homeless, expanding his understanding and involvement in community ministry. This experience was crucial in shaping his compassionate approach to serving others.

Vision for Growth: Pastor Larry's vision for Coalbush United Methodist Church is encapsulated in the mantra "We will grow." He firmly believes that through persistent outreach, personal faith-sharing, and fostering an inviting church environment, the congregation will continue to thrive.

Kent Lundy and Pastor Larry Chrisman explore themes of personal growth, community involvement, and the dynamic nature of spiritual callings, offering listeners a heartfelt and inspiring narrative that underscores the power of faith in action. Join them for this enriching dialogue and discover how everyday moments and interactions can lead to profound spiritual growth and community transformation.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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In this inspiring episode of "Pulpit Perspectives Podcast" host Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy sits down with Reverend Karen Koelsch, the senior pastor at Trinity on Jackson United Methodist Church in Elkhart, Indiana. Celebrating her fourth year at the church, Karen shares her journey in ministry, her sources of joy, and invaluable lessons she’s learned along the way.

Karen’s journey into ministry began in her high school years, but it wasn't until she attended Ball State University that she fully embraced her calling. She talks about the pivotal influence of members of the Wesley Foundation and her church mentors, who guided her spiritual growth. A poignant memory she shares is when a close friend affirmed her call to ministry, saying, "It's about time the rest of us have known it for quite a while."

Throughout the episode, Karen touches on several critical aspects that come with being in vocational ministry, offering listeners insightful takeaways:

1 Persistent Joy Amidst Challenges: Karen exhibits a profound understanding that joy in ministry is not about the absence of challenges but rather about finding joy amidst them. She humorously recounts how her 8-month-old puppy can bring joy some days and test her patience on others. This perspective extends into her ministry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining joy even during trying times.

2 Relying on a Supportive Community: When asked who’s in the stands cheering for her, Karen highlights the importance of family, friends, and her covenant group. This powerful imagery reinforces how crucial a supportive community is for anyone in ministry. Those spiritual friends and family members become the bedrock during difficult times.

3 Faith and Perseverance: Karen shares her philosophy, “I can't screw it up so bad that God can't fix it,” demonstrating her resilient faith. This mindset allows her to keep pushing forward, knowing that God’s grace covers all trials and errors. For Karen, daily perseverance fueled by her relationship with Jesus is essential.

4 Ordinary Places Can Be Extraordinary: Reflecting on her profound experiences at Epworth Forest during her formative years, Karen beautifully illustrates how God often works in what appear to be ordinary places. These places become sacred spaces where God’s presence transforms and guides believers.

5 Core Principles of Ministry: Finally, Karen distills her ministry philosophy into three legacy words: try, follow, and rejoice. She believes in always trying, faithfully following Jesus, and never forgetting to rejoice in the good news. These principles guide her mission to make a lasting impact in Elkhart and beyond.

Join us for this heartfelt conversation as Reverend Karen Koelsch shares her wisdom, experiences, and the inspirations that fuel her commitment to ministry. Whether you’re in ministry or looking for spiritual encouragement, this episode offers abundant insights to inspire and uplift.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, hosted by Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy. This episode, recorded in the chancel of Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church, brings forth the profound insights and heartfelt experiences of Rev. John Hogsett, the senior pastor of Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church. Rev. Hogsett has been serving his congregation for over 12 years and shares his journey of faith, family, and ministry in this deep, reflective conversation.

John Hogsett's tenure at Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church began in 2012, marking his long-term dedication to his congregation. From the onset, Hogsett aimed to nurture his children through high school and college while also growing his ministry. Throughout his conversation with Kent, Hogsett illuminated several critical aspects of his life and ministry, providing listeners with valuable takeaways.

Takeaway Points:

1 The Power of a Personal Calling:

⦁ Experience of Divine Encounter:

One of the most captivating segments of the episode is Rev. Hogsett's vivid account of his divine calling to pastoral ministry. While studying psychology in college, Hogsett initially aimed to follow in his mother's path as a counselor. However, a profound and life-changing experience during communion at Galloway United Methodist Church redirected his trajectory. He recalls seeing Jesus sitting next to him, instilling a clear, unspoken call to pastoral ministry. This vision profoundly strengthened his faith and guided his decision to enter ministry despite his introverted nature.

2 Family as a Support System:

⦁ Cheer Block:

For Rev. Hogsett, family is at the heart of his support system. His wife, Mary Anne, and their four children have been his biggest fans and most ardent supporters. Hogsett emphasizes the importance of family in sustaining him through the ups and downs of ministry. Moreover, his extended family and parishioners have also played vital roles in providing encouragement and prayers, especially during challenging times.

3 Faith, Grace, and Hope as Legacy:

⦁ Defining Legacy:

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave at Elkhart Faith United Methodist Church, Hogsett succinctly articulated three words: faithful, grace, and hope. He reflects on his faithfulness to God’s calling, the grace he has tried to show and received from others, and the hope he consistently aims to convey to his congregation. These principles underpin his ministry and personal life.

4 Recharging Through Solitude and Scripture:

⦁ Introverted Reflections:

As an introvert, Rev. Hogsett finds rejuvenation in solitude and nature. He particularly enjoys walking, reading the Bible, and listening to music, especially classic rock and '80s Christian artists like DC Talk and Steven Curtis Chapman. His affinity for the Psalms, particularly Psalm 23, underscores his theological reflections and personal devotional practices.

5 Navigating Ministry Challenges:

⦁ Overcoming Introversion:

Despite being an introvert and facing initial fears of public speaking, Hogsett has embraced his pastoral role through perseverance and divine assurance. His journey reflects a transformative transition from reluctance to confidence, driven by a strong sense of calling and trust in God’s presence.

Tune in to this enriching episode to uncover how Rev. John Hogsett intertwines his personal experiences with his spiritual journey, offering lessons in faith, family, and ministry. This episode serves as a testament to the profound impact of divine calling and the unwavering presence of God in one’s life.

To stay updated on the activities and ministry in the North District, follow their Facebook page. For more comprehensive information about the Indiana Annual Conference, visit www.inumc.org.

Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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