Peace Conference 2025
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage with Reverend Beth Crissman to reflect on the recent Peace Conference held at Lake Junaluska. They explore the themes of peace, action, reconciliation, and love, emphasizing the importance of confronting discomfort and fostering leadership for future generations. The conversation delves into the historical context of the Peace Conference, its evolution, and the critical role of mentorship in peace building efforts. The episode highlights the necessity of justice in achieving true peace and the challenges that...
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Season of Lent and the Gospel of Mark: Bishop Ken Carter Interviews Dr. Clifton Black
Means of Grace
In this episode we revisit a great conversation that continues to edify us during the Lenten season. In recognition of the Lenten season, Bishop Ken Carter interviews Dr. Clifton Black, an Elder in the Western North Carolina Conference and authority on the Gospel of Mark. A native North Carolinian, Dr. Black talks about the connection the Gospel of Mark has with the Lenten season, as well as what makes it stand out from the other three Gospels of the New Testament.
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Quietly Revolutionary - Examining the Meaning of Lent
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage in a heartfelt conversation with Megan Habich, exploring the themes of Lent, wilderness experiences, and personal growth. They discuss the significance of introspection during Lent, the challenges of navigating difficult moments, and the importance of community support. Megan shares her insights on vocational discernment and the future of the church, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift towards recognizing everyone's calling. The conversation highlights the transformative power of embracing...
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Fresh Expressions 2025
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss their experiences at the Fresh Expressions Conference. They explore themes of connection, community, and the evolving nature of church, emphasizing the importance of listening to neighbors and adapting to new contexts. The conversation highlights the role of creativity in worship, the need for economic justice, and the concept of church leaders as 'sheepdogs' guiding their communities. The hosts reflect on the spirit of holy chaos that characterizes Fresh Expressions and the potential for transformation...
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Sanctuary: The Lawsuit Fighting for Safe Spaces
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager, along with guests Michelle Chappell and Greg Huffman, delve into the multifaceted concept of sanctuary within the church and its implications in contemporary society. They explore the historical context of sanctuary, the legal challenges faced by religious institutions, and the intersection of faith and law. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for religious freedom and the role of the church in providing refuge for the vulnerable amidst political and legal pressures. The conversation explores the...
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Examining Mystery in Modern Faith with Rev. Rob Hutchinson
Means of Grace
Jesse Enniss and Reverend John Yeager engage with Rob Hutchinson to explore the theme of mystery in modern faith. They discuss how churches can embrace mystery in their teachings and practices, the importance of community in navigating uncertainties, and the role of scripture in understanding faith. The conversation emphasizes that faith often requires belief in the unknown and that engaging with others enriches the spiritual journey. Rob Hutchinson discusses the importance of dialogue over debate in spiritual discernment, emphasizing humility and openness to different perspectives. He...
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Exploring the Meaning of Baptism: How a Viking Baptism Brought the Word Mercy to America
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager delve into the profound significance of baptism, exploring its historical roots, theological implications, and its role in shaping identity within the Christian faith. They discuss how baptism transcends mere tradition, serving as a bold declaration of faith and a transformative experience that challenges societal norms. The conversation also touches on the varying perspectives on baptism across different Christian denominations, emphasizing the importance of understanding its deeper meaning in a world of...
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Managing and Preventing Burnout
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager delve into the pervasive issue of burnout, exploring its emotional, physical, and spiritual dimensions. They discuss the importance of recognizing burnout, the necessity of rest, and how cultural attitudes towards work can impact our well-being. The conversation emphasizes that rest is not a luxury but a vital part of life, modeled by God and essential for maintaining spiritual health. John and Jesse explore the themes of burnout, rest, and community support. They discuss the cultural shift regarding...
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Youth in Ministry with Shannon LeMaster-Smith
Means of Grace
In today’s episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss, John Yeager and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith discuss the critical role of youth in the church, exploring the challenges of youth engagement, the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in ministry, and the misconceptions surrounding youth ministry. They are joined by special guest Shannon LeMaster-Smith, who emphasizes the need for churches to empower youth as co-creators in ministry and to adapt to their needs and interests. The conversation also touches on practical approaches to engaging youth and the vision for the...
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Epic Fails with Charles DiRico
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the importance of failure in personal and spiritual growth. They are joined by Charles DiRico, who shares his journey through the challenges of ordination and how his perceived failures led to significant ministry opportunities. The conversation emphasizes the value of vulnerability, mentorship, and the unexpected blessings that can arise from setbacks. In this conversation, Jesse, John and Chris explore the themes of faith, ministry, and the importance of embracing failure and risk-taking in...
info_outlineToday’s episode of Means of Grace discusses environmental stewardship through a faith-based lens, emphasizing the theological foundations and practical applications of creation care. Hosts Jesse Enniss, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith and John Yeager explore the distinction between stewardship and dominion over creation, the importance of humility in environmental actions, and the role of faith communities in promoting sustainable practices. Examples of churches integrating creation care, such as First United Methodist Church in Stanley, North Carolina, and Maple Springs United Methodist in Winston-Salem, are highlighted. The conversation also touches on the broader theological implications, the need for theological shifts, and resources for churches to engage in creation care.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
02:47 Theological Foundations of Environmental Stewardship
09:37 Acting with Humility in Creation Care
12:06 Challenges and Opportunities
15:41 Examples of Environmental Sustainability Initiatives
25:37 Theological Shifts and Resources
42:48 Practical Steps and Future Dreams
43:25 Conclusion and Call to Action