The Journey to Annual Conference
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Reverend Jesse Enniss and Reverend John Yeager celebrate Jesse's graduation from Duke Divinity School and reflect on their experiences in seminary and ministry. The conversation also touches on the ongoing journey of learning and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for clergy in the United Methodist Church. They delve into the significance of ordination and the various amendments being proposed at the upcoming Annual Conference, including issues of inclusiveness, racial justice, and voting qualifications for clergy. The dialogue...
info_outline
Easter: Living as Resurrection People with Rev. Dan Pezet
Means of Grace
In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Reverend Dan Pezet explore the deeper meanings of Easter, emphasizing that it is not merely a celebration of traditions but a profound invitation to embrace hope, transformation, and the reality of resurrection. They discuss the importance of recognizing change in identity, the healing power of letting go, and the necessity for churches to adapt to current realities. The conversation highlights the significance of living as 'resurrection people' and finding joy amidst grief, ultimately encouraging listeners to...
info_outline
Showing Up: Advocating for the Poor and Marginalized with Rev. Joel Simpson (Encore)
Means of Grace
This edition of the Means of Grace features a conversation with Rev. Joel Simpson, pastor of First UMC in Taylorsville, NC. Joel has a heart for justice and the poor and marginalized. In April 2022, Joel, along with Shane Claiborne, led participants through the stations of the cross. The stations included images that portrayed the execution of Jesus as painted by men awaiting their own execution of Tennessee’s death row. We talk about how that came about and how Joel and the church engage in justice ministries. Show notes: Joel Simpson email to connect...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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.
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Reverend Dan Pezet explore the deeper meanings of Easter, emphasizing that it is not merely a celebration of traditions but a profound invitation to embrace hope, transformation, and the reality of resurrection. They discuss the importance of recognizing change in identity, the healing power of letting go, and the necessity for churches to adapt to current realities. The conversation highlights the significance of living as 'resurrection people' and finding joy amidst grief, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace the wisdom of closure and the potential for new beginnings. This conversation explores the themes of change, personal growth, and legacy within church leadership. They discuss the importance of embracing change, the challenges of navigating transitions, and the lessons learned from failures. The conversation culminates in a vision for the church's future, emphasizing the need for connection and collaboration in a rapidly changing landscape.
Show Notes:
- You Only Have to Die: Leading Your Congregation to New Life by James A. Harnish
- Means of Grace Ep. 147: Peace Conference 2025 with Beth Crissman
Chapters
03:50 The Ship of Theseus: Identity and Change
09:38 Living as Resurrection People
45:30 Epic Fails
52:42 Dreaming Big for the Future of the Church