Ep. #350 “Second Chances”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Michael Whitworth for a thoughtful and honest conversation about second chances and returning to ministry after divorce. Together, they reflect on grace, restoration, and the challenges and responsibilities that come with stepping back into ministry following a difficult season of life. Michael Whitworth is a preacher and the author of more than forty books and commentaries exploring the depth and wonder of Scripture. A graduate of Freed-Hardeman University, he preaches for the Newport Avenue Church of Christ in Bend, Oregon. This...
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Ep. #349 “Small Town Ministry”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Matt James, preacher at the Church of Christ in Crosbyton, Texas, for a conversation about small town ministry. Together, they discuss the unique challenges and blessings that come with serving Christ in close-knit communities, where relationships are personal and ministry is deeply connected to everyday life. The discussion highlights the importance of faithfulness, long-term investment, and gospel-centered work in smaller congregations, reminding listeners that meaningful ministry is not measured by size, but by devotion to Christ...
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Ep. #348 “The Role of Special Needs Members in the Church”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Robin Lampley, a mother of a child with special needs, for an important conversation about how the church can better serve and support members with special needs and their families. Together, they discuss what church life looks like for families navigating special needs, how individuals with special needs can meaningfully serve within the body of Christ, and the responsibility of the church to love, include, and care for every member. This episode encourages thoughtful, compassionate engagement and reminds us that the church is...
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Ep. #347 “House to House, Heart to Heart”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Matt Wallin for a discussion about the work and mission of House to House, Heart to Heart. They reflect on the ministry’s beginnings in 1994 and its vision of churches of Christ cooperating to seek and save the lost through direct mail evangelism. Matt shares the role they play in 2026 and how churches can get involved. Connect with Us: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #HouseToHouse #HeartToHeart #Evangelism...
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Ep. #346 “Connected to the Vine”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Donovan Rillion for a thoughtful conversation through John 15 and Jesus’ teaching on the vine and the branches. Together, they explore what it truly means to remain connected to Christ and why our connection to the Vine is essential for spiritual life, growth, and fruitfulness. Connect with Us: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #John15 #TheVine #AbideInChrist #ChristianLiving #FaithAndGrowth #BiblicalTeaching...
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Ep. #345 “Keith Lancaster on the Power of Praise”
Dear Church
In this episode of the Dear Church Podcast, Chris McCurley is joined by Keith Lancaster, singer, songwriter, producer, and founder of The Acappella Company. Keith shares his journey in a cappella music, the heart behind Praise & Harmony, and why congregational singing plays such a vital role in Christian worship. Connect with Us: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #KeithLancaster #PraiseAndHarmony #A cappella #ChristianWorship #CongregationalSinging #ChurchMusic #WorshipMinistry...
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Ep. #344 “Allegiance”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by theologian and author Matthew Bates to discuss the gospel, faith, and allegiance to Jesus as King. Drawing from his book Salvation by Allegiance Alone, Bates challenges common assumptions about “faith alone” and invites Christians to rethink what Scripture teaches about salvation. Connect with Us: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Have a question? Email Chris at chris.mccurley@rippleoflight.com. #DearChurchPodcast #MatthewBates #Allegiance #Gospel #ChristianTheology #Salvation #FaithAndObedience...
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Ep. #343 “Faith in the Midst of Trial”
Dear Church
In this deeply moving episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with J. Tom Washburn, preaching minister at the Austin Avenue Church of Christ in Brownwood, Texas, for a powerful conversation about dying well. Now on hospice, J. Tom shares his personal story of faith in the midst of trial — reflecting on hope, trust in God, and what it means to finish life with confidence in Christ. This episode is not about despair, but about peace, assurance, and the enduring promises of the gospel when life grows fragile. J. Tom’s testimony offers encouragement to anyone facing suffering, loss,...
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Ep. #342 “Rural Ministry”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley is joined by Chandler Henderson and Chad Thies for a conversation about the unique challenges and blessings of rural ministry. Without formal ministry education or traditional training, both men have stepped into leadership roles simply because they saw a need — and answered God’s call. Chandler and Chad share how everyday Christians can make a powerful impact in small congregations, what ministry looks like in rural communities, and how God equips ordinary people to do extraordinary work. Their story is one of courage, faithfulness, and a...
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Ep. #341 “Communion Focus”
Dear Church
In this episode of Dear Church, Chris McCurley sits down with Dr. Josh Ketchum and his son Austin Ketchum, co-authors of the book At His Table: Weekly Reflections for the Lord’s Supper. Together, they explore the heart behind communion and why this weekly practice continues to be central to Christian worship. Their book offers 53 short reflections designed to help worshippers engage in the Lord’s Supper with greater depth, gratitude, and spiritual renewal. As they explain, communion is a sacred tradition handed down from the early church (Acts 20:7), yet it can easily become routine. Their...
info_outlineIn this episode of Dear Church, Chris talks with Landon Talley, an up-and-coming country singer and songwriter who is chasing his passion for music. Together, they explore the intersection of faith and country music, the challenges of pursuing a dream, and the importance of holding onto God while navigating the music industry. Landon shares how faith shapes his journey, inspires his songs, and gives meaning to his pursuit of success.
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