Josiah Venture Stories
Josiah Venture is a non-profit mission organization that equips young leaders in Central and Eastern Europe to fulfill Christ's commission through the local church. We want to see passionate followers of Jesus Christ with a vision to reach and disciple their generation for him. This podcast is about sharing life-changing stories from on-the-ground missionaries and the local people they work with to inspire and fuel the movement of God in Central and Eastern Europe.
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Thanksgiving Reflections: Stories and Blessings from Central and Eastern Europe
11/18/2025
Thanksgiving Reflections: Stories and Blessings from Central and Eastern Europe
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Josiah Venture Stories, host Gwynne Gardner shares reflections from Josiah Venture missionaries across Central and Eastern Europe. They express gratitude for God's faithfulness, share favorite Thanksgiving dishes, and highlight meaningful Bible verses. Stories include experiences from the following missionaries: 🇸🇰 Darina Malá / Slovakia 🇸🇮 Kingsley Hunnicutt / Slovenia 🇺🇦 Hayley Arnold / Ukraine 🇵🇱 Caleb Tedder / Poland 🇱🇻 Katka Roney / Latvia 🇪🇪 Garrett Haas / Estonia 🇨🇿 Daniela Dickson / Czech Republic đź‡đź‡ş Maggie Bella / Hungary 🇦🇱 Ioani Dhima / Albania 🇷🇴 Adina Oaie / Romania đź‡đź‡· Mark Krupa / Czech Republic & Croatia We invite you to reflect on what you are thankful for in this season, and we ask you to join in praying for God's movement across Central and Eastern Europe. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Jonathan Ogden on Music, Art, and Serving the Kingdom
11/04/2025
Jonathan Ogden on Music, Art, and Serving the Kingdom
In this insightful session, Jonathan Ogden, a Manchester-born singer-songwriter with a background in graphic design and former lead singer of the band Rivers & Robots, shares his personal and creative journey at Media Academy in the Czech Republic. He reflects on his upbringing in a large Christian family and how his faith became a personal commitment during his teenage years. Jonathan discusses his extensive involvement in music and creativity from a young age, his passion for creating and storytelling, and how he combined his interests in animation, graphic design, and music. He also discusses the formation of his ministry, Magnify Studios, which aims to provide resources and build community for Christian artists, as well as the challenges and opportunities of using social media for promotion. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of authenticity, trust in God, and continual learning in the creative process. He answers questions from the audience on topics such as the role of the church in supporting creatives, overcoming creative blocks, and navigating the impact of AI on music. Jonathan concludes by underscoring the significance of staying rooted in faith and the community in the creative journey. Learn more about Jonathan: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Discipleship and Miracles with Diana "DU" Anton
10/21/2025
Discipleship and Miracles with Diana "DU" Anton
Diana "DU" Anton serves in Bucharest, Romania, alongside her husband Bogdan. DU shares her spiritual journey from a young age and her calling into full-time ministry with Josiah Venture. She recounts her initial resistance to ministry, her supportive family, and her life's work in discipling young women and promoting the gospel. DU also details her personal challenges and triumphs, including her journey to marriage at 34 and the miraculous birth of their son, Adam, after years of struggle with infertility. The interview provides deep insights into the spiritual climate of Romania, DU's faith-driven life, and her hope and encouragement for young people today. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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From New Age to True Faith in Jesus with Mateja Todorovska
10/07/2025
From New Age to True Faith in Jesus with Mateja Todorovska
In this podcast episode, Mateja Todorovska shares her remarkable journey from growing up in a Catholic church to becoming deeply involved in New Age practices and the occult. After believing she was serving God through these practices, Mateja's life changed dramatically in December 2018 when she encountered Jesus while watching a YouTube video. This revelation led her to repent and fully embrace Christianity, even leading her former New Age followers to Christ. Mateja lives in Slovenia with her family, works with Josiah Venture, and is committed to helping others through her faith. Mateja also provides guidance on how to engage lovingly with those who are still involved in New Age beliefs. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Fall Conference: Strategies, Stories, and Spiritual Warfare with Rob Chestnut & Brooke Stevens
09/16/2025
Fall Conference: Strategies, Stories, and Spiritual Warfare with Rob Chestnut & Brooke Stevens
Discover the heart behind the Josiah Venture Fall Conference, featuring insights from Rob Chestnut and Brooke Stevens. They share the significance and purpose of the annual training and equipping event, detailing its varied history and evolution over the years. They explore this year's theme, 'Victorious: Equipped for the Battle, Anchored in Christ,' and share their personal experiences and insights into spiritual warfare. "There's a spiritual shift that's taking place in this next generation, like in ways that we really haven't seen before." -Rob "Is Jesus getting the headline of the story that I'm telling right now when it comes to spiritual warfare, or am I giving the headline to the enemy? He doesn't deserve and should never have the headline. That's why this is "Victorious"." -Brooke We invite you to join us in prayer for this year's conference! Pray for clarity and wisdom for our speakers. Pray that this conference would be Spirit-led! Pray for smooth and safe travel for everyone coming to the conference. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Camps Ministry and Mission Teams with Lelde Keice
09/02/2025
Camps Ministry and Mission Teams with Lelde Keice
In this episode of Josiah Venture Stories, Gwynne Gardner interviews Lelde Keice from Latvia. Lelde became a Christian at 14 through a youth camp and was introduced to Josiah Venture during high school. She later moved to England to pursue an Applied Theology and Youth Work degree at Moorlands College. Called back to Latvia in 2015, she now serves as the Camps Director for JV Latvia and coordinates mission teams. Gwynne and Lelde discuss the impact of Christian camps on youth, Latvia's spiritual climate, and mission teams' role in local ministries. Lelde shares personal anecdotes and insights on how camps and mission teams foster significant life change and spiritual growth among young people. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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"Real Life" Story with Lee Humerian
08/19/2025
"Real Life" Story with Lee Humerian
In this interview, Lee Humerian shares his journey from rock star to full-time missionary in Ukraine. Lee and his wife, Katie, led mission teams to the Czech Republic and then to Ukraine, which sparked their passion for youth ministry, leading them to join Josiah Venture in 2017. They have been deeply involved in various ministries, including Exit Tours and music camps. Due to the war in Ukraine, they have also led trauma-healing retreats. Lee now leads the evangelistic ministry programs team, while Katie handles human resources. They focus on supporting local church leaders and organizing camps for youth. This summer, the camp theme across our 16 Central and Eastern European countries was "Real Life," and Lee wrote the outlines for the evening talks, which focused on the life of the apostle Paul, for over 120 evangelistic camps. "We can't have the theme 'Real Life' without having stories from our real lives. Your story is powerful. I always think of the verse in Revelation: "We will overcome the enemy by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony." Our stories have the power to overcome the enemy, and so that was my proclamation." -Lee Despite the ongoing war and its impact, their ministry continues to thrive with a commitment to youth and their community. Please continue to pray for an end to the war in Ukraine, and for all of the after-camp follow-up events that are happening right now across all of the JV countries. Pray that young people will come to realize that real life is life with Jesus. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Inside the Summer Internship with Rosie and Inita
08/05/2025
Inside the Summer Internship with Rosie and Inita
Summer is one of the most exciting seasons across the 16 Central and Eastern European countries where Josiah Venture serves. Local churches are gearing up for camps, short-term teams are arriving, and perhaps one of the most energizing parts of the season—our summer internship program—is officially underway. This program welcomes college students and young adults passionate about spreading the gospel. Interns share their experiences, starting with their Amazing Race team-building exercise and subsequent training in the Czech Republic. In this episode, interns Rosie Kaminski and Inita Gutmane recount their journey to joining the program, experiences during the Amazing Race, training sessions, and the impactful work they are involved in. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Summer Intern Insights with Julie, Isaiah, and Adele
07/22/2025
Summer Intern Insights with Julie, Isaiah, and Adele
Summer is one of the most exciting seasons across the 16 Central and Eastern European countries where Josiah Venture serves. Local churches are gearing up for camps, short-term teams are arriving, and perhaps one of the most energizing parts of the season—our summer internship program—is officially underway. This program welcomes college students and young adults passionate about spreading the gospel. Interns share their experiences, starting with their Amazing Race team-building exercise and subsequent training in the Czech Republic. In this episode, interns Julie Weeks, Isaiah Martin, and Adele Tamberg recount their journey to joining the program, experiences during the Amazing Race, training sessions, and the impactful work they are involved in. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Extended Summer Intern Spotlight: Aidan Carson
07/08/2025
Extended Summer Intern Spotlight: Aidan Carson
Get to know Extended Summer Intern, Aidan Carson, in this episode. Originally from Chandler, Arizona, Aidan majored in civil engineering and worked as an engineer before feeling called to intern. After interning last summer, he’s back for another season, eager to continue building friendships with students and missionaries, make new connections, and help others become disciples of Jesus. Aidan shares his desire to grow in understanding the Czech language and culture, as well as his passion for supporting Edge Sports leaders as they use ultimate frisbee to reach young people who don’t know Jesus yet. In this episode, you’ll hear: • Aidan’s personal faith journey • What led him to serve on mission teams and apply for the summer internship • Why he returned for another internship • How you can pray for him this summer • And more! Join us as we welcome Aidan to the show and hear his heart for ministry in Central and Eastern Europe. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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LAUNCHED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
07/01/2025
LAUNCHED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "LAUNCHED" and is the last of this series. Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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TROUBLED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
06/24/2025
TROUBLED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "TROUBLED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Book referenced on this episode: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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DRAWN "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
06/17/2025
DRAWN "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "DRAWN." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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IMPRESSED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
06/10/2025
IMPRESSED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "IMPRESSED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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SATISFIED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
06/03/2025
SATISFIED "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "SATISFIED." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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ALIVE "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
05/27/2025
ALIVE "Jesus Stories" Teaching with Peter Mead
Jesus was more than just a good teacher or an amazing leader. He embodied all he taught and put flesh on all he communicated. He was (and IS) the Word, Light, Life, and so much more. When people encountered him, they were changed in a manner that was hard to explain. Can we be transformed today in similar ways? The theme of our 2025 Spring Conference was "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ." We were led by Peter Mead, a gifted Bible teacher, author, and pastor from the UK. He guided us through six stories of Jesus from the Gospel of John. This specific talk is called "Alive." Prepare yourself to be surprised and changed through these "Jesus Stories." Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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Peter Mead on Ministry Life and Biblical Preaching
05/20/2025
Peter Mead on Ministry Life and Biblical Preaching
Peter Mead is the director of Cor Deo and part of the leadership team of Trinity Chippenham, a church in the UK Peter helped to plant back in 2014. Peter shares his background, including being raised in a missionary family, his initial resistance to ministry and preaching roles, and how his faith journey led him to embrace these callings. He discusses the inspiration behind the ministry training program Cor Deo, his involvement in church planting, and his approach to preparing sermons and teaching. Peter also talks about his recent venture into podcasting with a focus on preaching and provides insights into his writing process. The episode concludes with Peter's message of hope for the younger generation, emphasizing the transformative power of Jesus. Peter was the main speaker at our annual Spring Conference and his teachings on "Jesus Stories: Transformative Encounters with Christ," will be released on the podcast over the next month. We invite you to listen to these teaching episodes and explore the gospel of John more deeply. Get to know Peter More: Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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20 Years on the Field and beyond with Susan Ellis
05/06/2025
20 Years on the Field and beyond with Susan Ellis
In this conversation, Josiah Venture alumnus Susan Ellis shares her remarkable journey from a life-changing trip to Europe in 1985 to becoming a Josiah Venture missionary in 1995. She discusses her deep emotional connection with Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Poland, where she served for 20 years. Susan's work spanned youth ministry, discipleship, marketing, and program development. In 2015, she returned to California to support her aging mother and now serves as the Director of Local Compassion Global Outreach and Congregational Care at her childhood church. Susan underscores the enduring impact of bold faith and discipleship, both of which are cornerstones of her life's work. She also shares insights on being single in ministry and encourages others to take steps towards missions, highlighting the transformative power of serving God full-time. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you, friends, and have a blessed day!
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From Youth Camp to Youth Leader with Baška Benešová
04/22/2025
From Youth Camp to Youth Leader with Baška Benešová
Get to know Baška Benešová from Slovakia and be inspired by her incredible journey of faith. She gave her life to Jesus at a youth church camp at the age of 13 and has been involved in ministering to teens and young adults ever since. She currently leads the English camp at her local church and works as the director of pointonline.sk for TCK (Training Center Kompas), providing resources and support for youth leaders. Baška also shares insights into her participation in KPM, the Annual Youth Leaders Conference, and her experience with the School for Youth Leaders. The episode ends with a heartfelt message on trusting God's plan and the importance of community support. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend or on your social media. Thank you friends, and have a blessed day!
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Christian Content Creators and Digital Missions
04/08/2025
Christian Content Creators and Digital Missions
In today’s special episode of Josiah Venture Stories, we’re live from the Digital Missions Summit in the Czech Republic! This incredible event brings together content creators, influencers, and storytellers from Central and Eastern Europe who are passionate about sharing the gospel in the digital space. Joining me are three amazing guests who are pioneers in using their creative gifts to advance the Kingdom of God online. With a live audience submitting questions, this episode dives deep into the challenges, joys, and strategies of being a Christian content creator in a world dominated by screens. If you’re passionate about using your digital presence to inspire and connect others with the gospel, this episode is packed with insights, encouragement, and practical advice. Guests: Aaron Bratcher, Germany: Pastor and / IG: Helenka Ukropcová, Czech Republic: Missionary and Social Media Manager for Josiah Venture, Czech - / IG: Sven Muller, Croatia: Youth Pastor and Content Creator / IG: Key Takeaways: The importance of being a Christian content creator in the digital space. How to balance creating vs. consuming and when and how to rest Why collaboration and community are essential for Christian content creators. Connect with Us: Follow on Instagram Learn more about Josiah Venture at Contact: Listener Challenge: What’s one step you can take this week to share the gospel through your digital platform? Whether it’s posting a story, creating a video, or connecting with a follower in need, take the leap and make an impact! Subscribe & Share: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with other creators who might be inspired to join the mission of sharing Christ in the digital space.
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Youth Ministry and Christian Coaching with Mark Krupa
03/25/2025
Youth Ministry and Christian Coaching with Mark Krupa
Mark Krupa has been a Josiah Venture missionary for 26 years. He currently works as a Christian coach to young people and youth pastors and serves as the Josiah Venture country leader for Croatia. He discusses his ministry work dedicated to youth ministry and church leaders in the Czech Republic and Croatia. Mark shares his passion for seeing spiritual growth among youth and church leaders, emphasizing the importance of healthy leadership and vibrant youth groups. An avid outdoor enthusiast, Mark also talks about his personal interests, including working on old cars and exploring Europe. He explains his transition to Christian coaching after a decade of traditional ministry, outlining how coaching helps empower leaders by asking the right questions and providing support tailored to individual needs. Mark also gives insights into the spiritual climate in the Czech Republic, the ongoing prayer for revival, and his current responsibilities supporting the Josiah Venture team in Croatia. He ends with an encouraging message for young people to explore the transformative power of Jesus in their lives. Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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From "Mistake" to Miracle, Music Inspiration with Faith Child
03/04/2025
From "Mistake" to Miracle, Music Inspiration with Faith Child
Faith Child is a multi-award-winning rapper, presenter, and one of the UK’s top Contemporary Christian Artists. Born and raised in South London, his music is an eclectic blend of Rap, Electro, and Pop. Putting his life experiences into music, Faith Child has a remarkable story that dates back to his birth. His consistent message is, " You are not a mistake. God has a plan and a purpose for every single person." Being a seasoned performer, he has performed in over 20 countries, in intimate settings of 50 people, and to larger audiences of more than 50,000 across Europe, America, and Africa. Faith Child has partnered with Josiah Venture multiple times for Exit Tours for over a decade. We are so thankful for his ministry partnership and for inspiring the next generation with God's love through his music. Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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Living Through War in Ukraine with Kristy Williams
02/18/2025
Living Through War in Ukraine with Kristy Williams
How do you hold onto hope in the midst of war? In this episode, Kristy shares how the team in Ukraine is doing after three years of full-scale, active war. At the end of the episode, she also shares specific ways you can continue to pray as we ask the Lord to bring peace and end the war. You can also support Ukraine by clicking on the following links: Kristy and her husband, Ben, have served in Ukraine for 18 years. Their first introduction to Josiah Venture was when they served as high school students in the Czech Republic at English camps. That exposure to peer evangelism started them on a journey with Josiah Venture to share Christ with the youth of Central & Eastern Europe. In 2002, they served as summer interns in Czech before marrying in January 2003. For the next three consecutive years, Ben and Kristy led short-term high school teams from southern New Jersey to the Czech Republic for camp ministry. During these summer trips, they felt God calling them into full-time missions. Josiah Venture suggested that they help launch a new team in Ukraine, and in January 2007, they moved there. After serving as camp directors and in a local youth group for several years, they began leading the Josiah Venture Ukraine team, Epokha, in 2011. Ben and Kristy serve in a dynamic local church, train Ukraine's youth, volunteer with the Department of Education, and teach and equip leaders across Central and Eastern Europe. They live in Lviv, Ukraine, with their children, Marissa and Dylan. 00:00 Introduction to Christy Williams 00:37 Journey to Full-Time Missions 01:07 Life and Ministry in Ukraine 02:19 Family and Personal Background 04:00 Passion for Youth Ministry 05:20 High School Sweethearts and Early Missions 06:09 First Mission Trip to the Czech Republic 09:59 Transition to Ukraine 13:45 Early Days in Ukraine 17:05 Impact of the Ongoing War 27:11 Holding on to Hope in the Midst of War 27:30 The Power of Psalms and Prayer 28:05 Eternity and the Life of Christ 30:13 Team Ukraine's Mission and Resilience 31:33 Stories of Resilience and Transformation 32:41 Challenges and Opportunities in Ministry 37:30 Mental Health and Trauma Care 42:02 Unity Among Churches in Ukraine 45:50 Prayer Requests and Final Thoughts Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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Media, Ministry, and Mission with John and Erin Kloosterhuis
02/04/2025
Media, Ministry, and Mission with John and Erin Kloosterhuis
In this episode, John and Erin Kloosterhuis share their journey into missions, starting from their college years, where they felt called to a life devoted to missions and relational evangelism. They discuss their move to the Czech Republic and later to Slovakia to support Josiah Venture's international communications team. John, an assistant communications director and UX design director, and Erin, who works in digital marketing, elaborate on using their skills and passions for God's kingdom. They reflect on the significance of media in missions and share their personal experiences and challenges. They currently live and work in Bratislava, Slovakia, with their two sons, Nathan & Ezra, to continue supporting a growing movement of God among the next generation in Central and Eastern Europe. Learn more about Josiah Venture Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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"Sacred Rhythms, Atomic Habits" with Landen Llamas
01/28/2025
"Sacred Rhythms, Atomic Habits" with Landen Llamas
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The fourth and final episode of our "Word Formed" conference series is “Sacred Rhythms, Atomic Habits” with Landen Llamas. In this episode, Landen explores ways to develop consistent, sacred habits of encountering God and His Word. He discusses the struggle of maintaining good habits and introduces insights from James Clear's book 'Atomic Habits,' focusing on how to incorporate these principles into spiritual practices. Landen examines how to cultivate a lifetime of following God through consistent engagement with His Word, drawing lessons from Scripture, such as Psalm 119 and Deuteronomy 6. Thank you for joining us for this teaching podcast. Follow on Instagram Praxologie Podcast Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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"Word Formed Hope" with Tyler Patty
01/21/2025
"Word Formed Hope" with Tyler Patty
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The third episode of our "Word Formed" conference series is "Word Formed Hope" with Tyler Patty, Director of the ForMission College EU Campus. In today’s world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, “Word Formed,” focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Thank you for joining us for this teaching podcast. Follow on Instagram Praxologie Podcast Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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"Meet and Listen" with Landen Llamas
01/14/2025
"Meet and Listen" with Landen Llamas
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The second speaker you will hear from in this episode is Landen Llamas, a teacher for the ForMission College EU Campus. In today’s world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, “Word Formed,” focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Thank you for joining us for this teaching podcast. Follow on Instagram Praxologie Podcast Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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"Pay Attention to Your Path" with Sean Smith
01/07/2025
"Pay Attention to Your Path" with Sean Smith
Get excited for new Podcast content in 2025! For January, we will take a break from the interview-style episodes to share the main talks from our last fall conference, "Word Formed." The first speaker you will hear from in this episode is Sean Smith. He is the Research Director for the Josiah Venture Research Institute and a Formation Tutor for the ForMission College EU Campus. In today’s world, young people face a constant barrage of conflicting messages about identity, truth, and relationships. But where can they turn for real answers? Our annual Fall Conference was dedicated to helping young leaders engage with the transformative power of Scripture in fresh, meaningful ways. The theme of the conference, “Word Formed,” focused on helping young people transition from seeing Scripture as an obligation to embracing it as a source of light, life, and clarity. Through this shift, they can better understand their identity, convictions, and relationships, preparing them for a hopeful and resilient future. Thank you for joining us for this teaching podcast. Follow on Instagram Praxologie Podcast Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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Shaped by Scripture and Theology with Landen Llamas
12/17/2024
Shaped by Scripture and Theology with Landen Llamas
Landen Llamas is originally from California and now lives and serves in Olomouc, Czech Republic, alongside his wife, Jenny, who is a Czech national. They first met in 2005 at a Josiah Venture English Camp. He came to serve with his short-term missions team, and Jenny was the Czech translator and a summer intern with Josiah Venture. As their own relationship grew, so did their love for ministering to Czech young people. It was clear that God was bringing them together to be a powerful team that would use their intercultural marriage as a tool to share the love of Christ with Czech people. After years of serving in their church in California with student ministries, Landen and Jenny moved to the Czech Republic in 2014 to bring encouragement, resources, and skills to the local church and build relationships with the Czech people. They hope that many will find salvation in Jesus Christ. They now live and serve the youth in the city of Olomouc. In 2020, Landen joined a new initiative within Josiah Venture to bring theological education to emerging Christian leaders in Central and Eastern Europe. Through a new partnership with ForMission College, which is based in the United Kingdom, Josiah Venture is able to offer an accredited bachelor’s degree in Theology, Mission, and Ministry, and Landen is serving on this team as a teacher. Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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Fatigue, Suffering, and Learning to Lament with David and Katka Bordner
12/03/2024
Fatigue, Suffering, and Learning to Lament with David and Katka Bordner
David & Katka Bordner share their profound experiences of suffering, faith, and community as they recount their journey through various health challenges while serving in Slovenia. Their story begins with a transformative trip to Slovenia that led to a lifelong commitment to youth ministry and missions. From David's persistent health issues starting in 2004 to Katka's own health struggles amidst the global pandemic, the couple discusses how they navigated suffering together. They explore themes of biblical lament, the power of community, and the importance of maintaining faith during difficult times. The episode underscores the profound impact of suffering in deepening one's relationship with God and highlights the delicate balance of celebrating and lamenting life's hardships. Katka grew up in Slovenia and began serving with Josiah Venture back in 2001. After graduating from Multnomah Bible College in 2003, David joined the team in Slovenia as a one-year intern. His passion and love for the people of Slovenia quickly grew, and that internship turned into a long-term commitment. After working together for 2.5 years, David and Katka began dating and were eventually married in September 2006. After serving 15 years together in their local church in the capital city, Ljubljana, with David as the youth pastor, and Katka leading the worship team, they felt a clear call to a new city. In 2018, they moved to the coastal city of Koper, where they are passionate about helping grow the local youth ministry, continuing to train and equip worship leaders around the country, and developing a new songwriting ministry for Slovene churches. Learn more about Josiah Venture Website: Social Media: Contact: social@josiahventure.com Josiah Venture Prayer Room: Josiah Venture Prayer Room APP:
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