Preparing Room: Mercy, Immigration, and the Quiet Defiance That Saves Lives
Release Date: 12/10/2025
Living Into Our Vision with John Crane & Rev. Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand
Means of Grace
In this episode, Rev. Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand and John Crane explore how churches can live beyond their walls, connect evangelism with missional outreach, and collaborate effectively to make a faithful impact. The challenge is to find new ways to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously. The three-part webinar series will equip laity and clergy with practical strategies and resources to help their churches more effectively connect with their community, build missional partnerships, and transform their communities by reaching others with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ....
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Wesley Pilgrimage Reflections with Rev. Hannah Howell and Rev. Blake Smarr
Means of Grace
In this episode, Hannah Howell and Blake Smarr reflect on their pilgrimage through England, retracing Wesleyan history, and explore how the experience deepened their faith, understanding of history, and sense of community. They discuss the spiritual insights, surprising discoveries, and ongoing impact of walking in the footsteps of John Wesley. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction: The Wesleyan pilgrimage 01:38 Meet Hannah Howell and Blake Smarr 03:43 Hopes for the pilgrimage 05:17 Discovering new sides of John Wesley 07:22 Letting go of expectations and being present 08:44 Spiritual moments at...
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Healing from Religious & Spiritual Abuse
Means of Grace
In this episode, Dr. Hannah Sutton-Adams, Rev. Dr. Susan Heafner-Heun & Rebecca Yates explore the concept of healing within the church, addressing religious trauma, spiritual abuse, and how churches can become safe spaces for healing and growth. Featuring experts from Matthews United Methodist Church, this conversation offers practical insights and spiritual reflections on transforming church communities. You are invited, on October 25, 2026, Matthews United Methodist Church will host a workshop titled
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Wonder Summit 2026 with Skyler Przygoda and Rev. Dr. Latricia Scriven
Means of Grace
This episode explores the upcoming and innovative approaches to involving children in worship, emphasizing the importance of listening to their voices and reimagining church practices. Skyler Przygoda and Latricia Scriven share insights from the upcoming Wonder Summit, a transformative event for all church leaders. Remember to use code "SCHOOL" for a discount on your registration to
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Ep. 167 - Leading with Grace: A Metro District Superintendent's Journey with Rev. David Hockett
Means of Grace
In this episode, Rev. David Hockett shares his journey into ministry, his return to the role of Metro District Superintendent, and insights on leadership, change, and faith in challenging times. 00:00 Introduction to David Hockett and the Metro District Superintendent role 01:36 David’s call to ministry and early formation in the church 05:02 Returning to district superintendent a second time 09:06 Leaving Davidson and moving into a new season 13:21 What a district superintendent actually does 16:05 Making space for clergy and laity to try new things 18:37 When DS leadership should be mostly...
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No Mission Without Margin
Means of Grace
Meredith Martin, the new conference treasurer and director of administrative services, shares her journey, experience, and vision for her new role. She emphasizes the importance of stewardship, accountability, and mission in managing the financial and administrative aspects of the conference. Meredith's background as a deacon, social worker, and nonprofit leader has prepared her to bring a unique perspective to her new role, ensuring responsible and strategic financial management aligned with the mission of the church. The conversation covers topics related to financial stewardship, integrity,...
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Pentecost Already Happened with Rev. Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand
Means of Grace
In this episode, Rev. Dr. Stephanie Hand shares insights on the Holy Spirit's movement in church life, the importance of authentic evangelism, and reimagining church beyond traditional walls. Join us for a deep dive into spiritual renewal and practical steps for engaging the world with courage and compassion. Resources Guest Links: Chapters 00:00 Debriefing the Annual Conference 03:05 The Role of the Holy Spirit 05:36 Living Beyond the Walls of the Church 08:39 The Balance of Holy and Human 11:31 The Power of Holy Conferencing 14:26 Embracing Change and New Directions 17:22...
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Highlights from the 2026 WNC Conference with Bishop Carter & Rev. Kim Ingram
Means of Grace
This episode provides a comprehensive overview of the 2026 Western North Carolina Annual Conference, highlighting key initiatives, recognitions, and spiritual reflections that shape the future of the church in the region. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview 02:37 Church Restoration Fund and Racial Justice Initiatives 04:08 Partnership with Ukraine-Moldova Conference 05:56 Reinstatement of Lauren Scruggs' Ordination Credentials 07:53 Recognition of Ministry Leaders and New Ordinations 09:57 Conference Budget and Financial Stewardship 12:36 Small Group Conversations and Community...
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Handing It Off: Worship, Legacy, and the Future of Conference with Rev. Dr. Kaury Edwards
Means of Grace
Join Jesse Enniss and John Yeager as they chat with Kaury Edwards, a visionary Annual Conference worship leader preparing to pass the baton after four years of shaping unforgettable conference experiences. Kaury shares the meticulous process of blending deep-rooted Methodist traditions with bold, innovative design that reimagines sacred space — from stunning backdrops inspired by Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour to visual art that celebrates 660+ churches. You’ll discover how intentional planning, community participation, and spiritual discernment turn routine gatherings into Holy Spirit-filled...
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Peace by the Lake, Rebuild the Church: Pilgrimage, Change, and the Work Ahead
Means of Grace
Summary This episode features insights on church leadership, the importance of humility, and navigating change during appointment season. Hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the significance of mentorship, avoiding ego, and the power of community in faith-based leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Peace Conference and Pilgrimage 05:31 Navigating Appointment Season 08:31 The Importance of Connection and Community 11:28 Theological Reflections on Leadership 14:25 The Role of Mentorship in Ministry 17:37 Epic Fails in Leadership 20:29 The Need for Balance in Ministry...
info_outlineIn this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Rev. Dr. Luke Edwards reflect on the importance of being present for the vulnerable, particularly immigrants facing legal and social challenges. They discuss the launch of the Immigrant Ministry Crisis Fund by the Western North Carolina Conference, aimed at providing support to immigrant families in need. The conversation emphasizes the role of the church in advocating for justice, offering compassion, and creating a welcoming community for those in distress. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage in meaningful support and accompaniment of their immigrant neighbors.
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