Healthy Church Growth Show

ABOUT THIS EPISODE Elders Connell and Rhonda Hollins will discuss Christian marriage and relationship counselling which is rarely addressed in adequate ways in many assemblies. They are based in Chicago and run Me to We Talk podcast. _____________________________________________________________________________ TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 1.40 Is Christian marriage being overlooked in the Church? Marriage based on functioning disfunction – based on TV, Reality shows etc? Address the marriage ceremony and not the transition? Excited about the wedding day, not about the marriage. 3.52 What made them start a relationship ministry. Pre-marital classes. More questions than answers. Marriage – God’s first ministry. Classes were more religious than understanding modern issues. Some Christian ministers were not equipped. 7.08 Real marriage counselling case-study. 10.58 Who did they learn from about marriage? 14.30 Is it ok to be unequally yoked with a life partner? 19.16 the tests in a relationship 22.16 Is it OK to disagree as a couple? 24.07 Like milk, there needs to be an expiration date on arguments 24.26 Do they only work on Christian marriage counselling or non-Christians too? 26.47 The trend for single people attending relationship classes. 28.08 Is there a line they would draw or subjects which would not be broached in relationship classes. 30.10 Non-Christian relationship counselees understanding Christian principles on sex before marriage. No condemnation. 34.18 Leaders – what can they learn about relationships for their own assemblies? 39.00 Relationship consultancy to other leaders in the Church available from Elders Connell and Rhonda LISTEN TO - ME TO WE TALK Podcast https://metowetalk.com Minister Madge Obaseki madgeobaseki.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

FULL TRANSCRIPT Welcome to the healthy church growth show podcast ep. 56. This is the last in this present series of the podcast until the beginning of August. You will hear interviews I recorded earlier this year with Andy Frost, from Share Jesus international on resources he has developed for churches to approach evangelism easily. So, over the past few weeks, I have been talking about engagement of your staff and volunteers, why this important and what aspects you should be focusing on. Last week in ep. 55 I discussed: 1. The PURPOSE OF A PERFORMANCE REVIEW? 2. WHO’S A PERFORMANCE REVIEW FOR? 3. WHO’S RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUT A PERFORMANCE REVIEW? The recording is in the link for this week’s show notes. To continue the subject of performance review today I’ll discuss the other subjects to consider. 4. HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD A PERFORMANCE REVIEW SHOULD TAKE PLACE 5. HOW TO AGREE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES ARE NEEDED 6. HOW TO RECORD WHAT WAS DISCUSSED IN THE PERFORMANCE REVIEW HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD A PERFORMANCE REVIEW SHOULD TAKE PLACE In my time spent in human resource management, performance reviews were usually carried out on a 6-monthly basis. This period gives time for the member of staff or volunteer an opportunity to reflect and work on any issues which came up in the review. So, by the time the next review came round, the manager or team leader with the member of staff could discuss the impact of any changes over the last 6-months. I suggest 6 months is a good guide to aim for. HOW TO AGREE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES ARE NEEDED Agreeing what improvements are needed in a performance review can sometimes be a bone of contention. Some of the reasons for this might be a new managers or team leader who may not be used to conducting a review. If you are in this position, I suggest you study the examples of Jesus reviewing his disciple’s actions, reactions, and responses to assignments. He often asked them questions. The best performance review sessions enable the member of staff or volunteer to address the issues raised, by asking them a question.  For example, you could ask, “How do you feel you performed?” “What would you do differently?” When you ask open ended questions like that, you allow the staff or volunteer to address issues rather than you telling them what they’ve done wrong which Cn cause conflict. HOW TO RECORD WHAT WAS DISCUSSED IN THE PERFORMANCE REVIEW A template either printed or on a computer will have: · the name of the member of staff or volunteer · the department · the date of the review · date of the last review if there was one · what actions were agreed from the last review (if this is relevant) · improvements which have been made. If you would like a template for a performance review, email admin@growthechurchnow.com and we’ll send you one. LINKS madgeobaseki.com Engaging Church Staff & Volunteer PERFORMANCE REVIEWS ep. 55 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-Church-Staff--Volunteer-PERFORMANCE-REVIEWS-ep--55-e12o26k --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

FULL TRANSCRIPT As a natural progression to developing relationships, today I’m covering staff & volunteer development, specifically their progression in the role they are carrying out. As usual this series are practical. I suggest you get your pen and note pad to take some notes! Also, if you have people who report to you, share the link to this episode with them so they can listen. As far as team & staff development goes, you might be familiar with the terms one-one, feedback, evaluation, or performance review. If you’re not familiar with those terms, a performance review is where you talk with an individual on a regular basis about their performance. Staff and volunteer development has always been an important matter to address. But, in these uncertain times, it’s even more important to ensure we keep our staff and volunteers engaged and willing to contribute to our overall goals. As a biblical reference I suggest studying Ephesians 4: 12. There are many advantages to providing staff and volunteer development. If a review is done well, your staff or volunteers can see how they started in their role in your ministry, church or business and what progress they’ve made over time. An evaluation or performance review provides a road map showing what worked, and what improvements are needed. It’s a great opportunity to honour people’s efforts and provide guidance which are also motivating factors. This is especially important where people are volunteering because as a performance review can act as a non-financial motivator. Another advantage in carrying out a performance review, is you’ll find out about people’s hidden gifts and talents. Their gifts and talents may differ from the role they are carrying out in your church. You might find through a review that they are better serving in another department or role such as leadership! An added value for your volunteers is the skills they learn in your church or ministry might be transferrable and can be added to their resume. There are 6 points to get the best from your staff and volunteer performance review. I’ll only cover 3 in this episode. Today I will discuss: 1. The PURPOSE OF A PERFORMANCE REVIEW? 2. WHO’S A PERFORMANCE REVIEW FOR? 3. WHO’S RESPONSIBLE FOR CARRYING OUT A PERFORMANCE REVIEW? · The performance review is for ALL staff and volunteers. That is from ordained and un-ordained leaders, any staff level and all volunteers. · Basically, everyone should have a performance review. I recommend every six months as it provides an opportunity to address any issues identified and make adjustments before the next review. · The person who manages the staff or volunteer or you oversee a department, would ensure you programme a review on a regular basis. Next week I will discuss: 4. HOW OFTEN YOU SHOULD A PERFORMANCE REVIEW SHOULD TAKE PLACE 5. HOW TO AGREE WHAT IMPROVEMENTS OR CHANGES ARE NEEDED 6. HOW TO RECORD WHAT WAS DISCUSSED IN THE PERFORMANCE REVIEW LINKS madgeobaseki.com Ep. 54 Developing Relationships - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-Staff-and-Volunteers-DEVELOPING-RELATIONSHIPS-ep--54-e126drb --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

What’s this episode all about? Continuing the series on engagement of Church staff and volunteers this week, Minister Madge Obaseki digs deeper She discussed leaders intentionally developing relationships with staff and volunteers to get to know them for successful engagement which can impact the achievement of mission, objectives and strategies in local churches. FULL TRANSCRIPT Welcome to ep. 54 of the HCGSP. In Episode 53 I started a new series on staff & volunteer engagement. I talked about Pastoral Care. If you missed that episode why not go back & listen, the link is in the show notes. Engagement as far as staff & volunteers is much broader than Pastoral Care. For example, part of my corporate business career was in HR and in particular organisational development. Whether you are running a business non-profit or a local church, successful engagement means your people feel passionate about what they do and are committed to the organization's vision, mission objectives & strategy. But how do you harness that enthusiasm and passion? I think it’s simple really, get to know them! Might sound obvious, right? But, you'd be that some really don't really know their staff or volunteers, their likes, dislikes, what motivates them, what their key skills are etc. Without that knowledge, it's difficult to know how you can harness their strengths to support your organisations goals and as importantly develop their skills & talents. Here are some ideas for staff and volunteer engagement: 1. Carry out regular one-one i.e., evaluations where you discuss their progress, future ambitions, what their strengths and areas for development are. These sessions could take place every 6 months. I’ll be going into more detail about how to do a one-one evaluation successfully in episode 55. 2. Hold a staff retreat in person if possible 3. Have a social event for your staff and volunteers where you can all relax and unwind. It is amazing how much you get to know people in a social setting especially where food is involved! If you want to keep in touch and get access to resource to help you grow a healthy church, visit madgeobaseki.com/contact See you next week by God’s grace! LINKS Episode 52 – https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Engaging-staff-and-volunteers-PASTORAL-CARE-ep--52-e11ooo7 Website  madgeobaseki.com/contact --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? Minister Madge Obaseki shares insights, knowledge and tips for better engagement with church staff and volunteers. Engagement is important to build trust and motivate staff and volunteers to work towards our mission, objectives and hence a healthier growing church. This is the first of a series addressing the importance of engagement. Different aspects of engagement will be addressed. The episodes will be deliberately shorter than normal so that listeners can use the audio to conduct team training and reflection on existing systems 1.10 What Nona Jones Head of Head of Faith Based Partnerships for Facebook says about engagement 1.35 What this new series in the podcast with the focus on i.e. engagement of staff & volunteers 1.44 The reason for the subject of engagement is that people are biggest asset. 2.15 This episode covers Pastoral Care for Staff & Volunteers from an engagement point of view. 2.22 Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin, Bishop of Dover & the 1st black female Bishop to be installed in the CoE appeared in Episode 46 called Who ministers to the minister focusing on Pastoral Care 2.49 Why Pastoral care is essential for the well-being & engagement of our staff & volunteers. but overlooked in some quarters. 3.09 Why pastoral care is even more important during the pandemic. 3.59 Why a written system of Pastoral care is important 5.19 Just one leader responsible for pastoral care and the disadvantages and why it is reminiscent of Moses and Jethro. 7.35 no formal system in place and the challenges this brings up. 8.32 Reviewing pastoral care system with your congregation and the tools that can be used. Why it needs to be anonymous. 9.48 More tips on church staff and volunteer engagement. LINKS madgeobaseki.com Episode 46 - Bishop Rose Hudson Wilkin - Who ministers to the minister? https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Who-Ministers-to-the-Minister---Bishop-Rose-Hudson-Wilkin--Ep--46-ev4ph4 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? This conversation is with Chris Staron about his faith journey as a self-described Pharisee to fisher of men. He talks to Minister Madge Obaseki about how as Christian leaders we might unwittingly have an attitude of a Pharisee, and why this can impact our congregations. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 1.46 Chris Staron’s background as film producer, podcaster of the Truce Podcast, Thespian and Comedian (improv) 3.00 appealing to a non-Christian audience as a believer. 3.43 The Accidental Pharisee 4.50 Being relatable as a Christian believer. 5.17 Opportunities to evangelise in the public space. 6.00 Truce Podcast and why some of the subjects appear to be controversial. 8.06 What does the Pharisee approach look like? 9.36 Why Minister Madge Obaseki took her discipleship book off the shelf 10.45 The importance of communicating with people of different backgrounds and traditions and studying the bible for ourselves. 10.58 What took Chris Staron out of his own fundamentalist views. The importance of sharing Jesus to enlighten others. 12.50 What specific incident led Chris Staron from Pharisee to Fisher of Men. Sharing the gospel in a workplace situation. 16.33 Why some non-believers might be angry with Christians OR against the faith. The importance of simply listening to discern the reasons. 17.45 Examples of how biblical verses are miscommunicated or misunderstood which can lead to fundamentalism or wrong doctrine. 20.33 The importance of Church Leaders, pastors clergy, sharing all aspects of bible and the consequences for not doing so. 20.52 Is the pastor the font of all knowledge? Considering the empowerment of congregations i.e. discipleship. 23.21 Chris Staron quote – “It’s easy to think we control all the pieces, but the best way is to teach the pieces to take control” 24.19 Advice to leaders in the Church – on how to stop being a Pharisee. 25.14 The Truce Podcast and where to find it. ABOUT CHRIS STARON Chris Staron is the producer and host of the Truce Podcast, which dives deep into history to explore how as Christian believers we got here and how we can do better. I'm also the writer/director of two feature-length films, "Bringing up Bobby" and "Between the Walls" (on Amazon Prime, Netflix, TBN, DVD). He is the author of the novel "Cradle Robber", and the young adult book "How to Survive a Money Making Summer". He is a content creator, and also worked a crew member on "The Bernie Mac Show", "Hell's Kitchen", and more. LINKS Truce Podcast - https://trucepodcast.com/ BOOK - Cradle Robber by Chris Staron - https://www.amazon.com/Cradle-Robber-Chris-Staron-ebook/dp/B01M59BBPD/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=cradle+robber+Chris+Staron&qid=1621848517&sr=8-1 Christian Films by Chris Staron Bringing Up Bobby - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EynY5e0eL3o Between the Walls - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8sInY_IMEnE BOOK by Larry Osborne - Accidental Pharisees: avoiding pride, exclusivity, and the other dangers of overzelous faith. AMAZON UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Accidental-Pharisees-Avoiding-Exclusivity-Overzealous/dp/0310494443/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr= Contact Minister Madge Obaseki madgeobaseki.com/contact --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE This is a short episode to introduce the updated format of the show and the subjects that will be covered to help grow a healthy church. FULL TRANSCRIPT Welcome to Episode Number 50! Another landmark! We celebrated our 40th Anniversary in March, quickly followed by my 1st year hosting this podcast and now we're at number 50! I've even got some bonus episodes out so I've actually done more than 50! I appreciate all of you who've followed this podcast from the start and anyone who has just discovered it for young me. This week I'm going to outline the next stage for the upcoming format of this podcast. in ep. 51 you'll hear my conversation with Chris Staron and his journey from Pharisee to Fisher of Men. In modern terms a Pharisee is someone who is hypercritical and into the rules, the regulations first & foremost rather than relationships & humanity. Recent research suggest that the attitude of a Pharisee could influence people's decisions to stay in the Church. Listen to ep.51 if you're concerned about church retention problems. In future episodes I'll be covering some practical subjects around engagement of staff & volunteers. Interspersed with that I'll be talking to Anne Livingstone about her journey from New Age to Child of God. That episode will be useful if you've found people visiting your online services with little or no faith who've possibly dabbled with new age practices. Fascinating insights from Anne! You'll also hear my conversation with Andy Frost of Share Jesus International who'll take us through some simple steps to kick start evangelism in our local churches. I'll also be speaking to Elder Conell & Rhonda Hollis who are relationship experts who work with Churches to integrate this important ministry. LINKS madgeobaseki.com/contact --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? Minister Madge Obaseki speaks to Andy Peck from the Leadership Show at Premier Christian Radio, about her experience in designing training to address conflict in churches. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 3.01 Minister Madge journey to ministry 5.10 Common areas of conflict in the church – lack of or unclear communication mission, vision, objectives and values 7.26 Can there be conflict in a healthy church? 7.52 Principles for dealing with conflict in the church and biblical verses that addresses conflict. 9.41 An analysis of 1st Corinthians 1-3 which addresses divisions in the church and some of the causes of conflict. 10.41 The part doctrine and traditions can play in conflict and what the guiding principles should be from a biblical perspective. Using the pulpit to speak to a situation rather than dealing with the individuals involved. 14.43 Is there an issue with gender and conflict in the church? 16.57 Should Christians get involved in politics? Was Jesus a politician? 19.15 What sort of subjects does Minister Madge Obaseki address in a typical conflict management training session for the church? How to contact Minister Madge Obaseki to deliver training for your church. Case study example of a church management committee who were in conflict and the power of strategic administration. LINKS Enquiries about training and facilitation with Minister Madge Obaseki – madgeobaseki.com/contact The Leadership Show with Andy Peck -  https://www.premierchristianradio.com/Shows/Sunday/The-Leadership-Show --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT THIS EPISODE IS ALL ABOUT? This is part two of the outline of a real case study of a church Minister Madge Obaseki host of the Healthy Church Growth Show podcast worked with. They wanted to experience growth but was meeting some barriers. You’ll hear what some of those barriers were through recordings from a live event with staff of volunteers of the church assembly. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 1.11 – Context of the episode – the case study of a church Minister Madge has worked with 5.32 – Live recording of breakout group (edited clip) discussing main topics in the survey sent to all attendees. Nominating a group leader. Ideas shared from group members. Digital church improvement suggestions Small Group (hub group) leadership and practical ideas for engagement. Small groups and the opportunity for growth. 9.24 Viewing and following up online church visitors. Lack of dedicated team for following up church visitors. 9.43 Clip of feedback shared from each shared group. 12.05 Analysis for the church staff and volunteer event by Minister Madge. LINKS Episode 47 The work I do for churches (part 1) - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-work-i-do-for-churches-minister-madge-obaseki-ep-47-part-1/id1453862091?i=1000518523211 Contact Minister Madge Obaseki - madgeobaseki.com/contact --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THE EPISODE ALL ABOUT? Minister Madge Obaseki talks about the work she does for churches by sharing some case studies of churches she has been commissioned by. You will hear extract of the training event and ideas you can use in your own local church. This is also the 1st year anniversary episode. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 1.0  1st year of Healthy Church Growth Show podcast 1.10 Testimony & encouragement 2.40 The purpose of the podcast, the pandemic and opportunities for the church 4.12 Part 1 what does a church consultant does. 4.37 The case study of working with a church who commissioned Minister Madge earlier in 2021. 5.06  The background of the local church I have worked with 5.20 Why the church leader approached Minister Madge & her research interest in retention problems 5.37 Leadership willing to get to the root of the problem and being authentic and consultation. The key information: Vision, Mission, Objectives and Values. 6.56  The proposal to work with a church, what does it involve? 7.26  Supplying anonymous surveys beforehand to gauge attendees and delegate needs perceptions and experiences. 7.42 How staff and volunteer retreats can be delivered in times of social distancing. 8.07  What support staff are included with each commission and the cost differential and what alternatives can churches utilise. 8.37 Communications with the team and senior leaders throughout the commission to ensure clear communications channels 9.19  How added value was provided by the consultant – recorded announcement to delegates and attendees 10.16  Using online platforms such as Zoom – the pros and cons 11.33  What you will hear in Part 2 of The work I do for churches in episode 48 ABOUT MINISTER MADGE OBASEKI Minister Madge Obaseki is Director of Grow The Church Now where she serves as a church consultant. She is host of the Healthy Church Growth Show and she is an author. She is known as the Healthy Church Growth advocate. That is because she is committed to facilitating our collective mission found in Matthew 28:19-20. Her background in corporate organisational development, training delivery and Human Resource management has prepared her to serve in full-time ministry which she has been doing for over 28 years. Her specialism is retention challenges in the church. She provides services to churches and ministry including strategic reviews, training delivery, facilitation for staff and volunteer events and staff and volunteer retreats and mentoring for leaders. The objective is to assist church assemblies and ministries to ultimately achieve healthy sustainable growth. She works with churches small and medium no matter the denomination in the USA and UK and has travelled to speak at events for church leadership on her specialism church retention challenges. She holds a degree in Ministerial Theology, a post-graduate in Management and she is CIPD and ILM accredited. LINKS Minister Madge Obaseki website - madgeobaseki.com/contact Example of a church previously worked with - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-26-leading-through-a-crisis-church-new-norm/id1453862091?i=1000495202381 Episode 40 – Healthy Church Growth Show 40thepisode special - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ep-40-celebrating-40-episodes-healthy-church-growth/id1453862091?i=1000510916884 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? We talk to Bishop Rose about pastoral care from a clergy perspective in these challenging times. We discuss why clergy need to be intentional of looking after their well-being so they can look after others more effectively. ABOUT BISHOP ROSE HUDSON-WILKIN Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin is made history in 2019 as the 1st black female Bishop to be ordained in the Church of England. She is also the 1st black woman to be installed as the Bishop of Dover. She was formerly Chaplain to the Speaker of the House of Commons and continues to serve Her Majesty The Queen of England as a vicar/chaplain. SUMMARY OF TRANSCRIPT 2.56 Announcement of Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast 1st anniversary 5.08 Bishop Rose Leadership Challenges across denominations during the Covid pandemic 9.36 Ensuring, leaders, clergy, pastors receive pastoral care to be able to cope with difficult times The importance of building relationships, communication team meetings putting in place mechanisms staying in touch and being in tune knowing where your people are and what they're experiencing. 12.58 - Minister Madge - how to juggle varied needs. Finding time for self and balancing family, life etc. Bishop Rose Diary management. Prayerful workers. 16.06 - 17.21 Who ministers to Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin? The importance of not assuming that it will just happen and being intentional. The definition of a Spiritual Director 20.24 Bishop Rose last word -  I do hope that those listening will make the time not only to care for others, but to care for themselves. I'm always reminded of that passage of scripture, Love the lord your God with all your heart soul, strength and mind. Love your neighbour as you love yourself. Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-church-growth-show-podcast/id1453862091 Minister Madge Obaseki Website  - madgeobaseki.com/videos --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

ABOUT THIS EPISODE The purpose of this conversation with author and TV personality Reina Rose on the Healthy Church Growth Show was to discuss how as Christian leaders we can better prepare people’s souls. The soul is sometimes ignored/overlooked in teaching and discipleship. We discuss the reasons why this might be. Reina also shares the tragedy which led to a wake-up call to a deeper relationship with God and nourishing her soul. ABOUT REINA ROSE International best-selling author and Soul Nutrition ROKU TV show host, Reina Rose shares her unique experience and expertise on the importance of nourishing the soul. Digging deep into the question of what truly satisfies our inner life, Reina distils ancient wisdom into practical tools useful for today's modern audiences. As a former fitness professional and lifelong student of human behaviour, Reina draws a powerful parallel between harmful food cravings and the common mindsets and behaviour that harm our souls. From stress management to meditation to prayer to mindful self-awareness, Reina's topics direct audiences on a journey toward personal and spiritual fulfilment. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY Reina Rose background 5.18  Definition of what the Soul is – True self vs False Self. 7.05  Prosperity Gospel, depravity gospel and living on and with purpose. 8.21  The role discipleship plays in preparing the soul. 9.19  Why Reina used a Tibetan parable in a Christian book – Sin Tastes Good. 12.38 Old wine skins patched up. 14.28 Redefining certain terms e.g. Sin. The burden of guilt and sin. 15.18 Retention and what is behind it. 15.49 Reina and ego and the tragedy she experienced which acted as a wake-up call. 23.00 Focusing on purpose and calling without seeing the material benefits immediately. Not being swayed by people’s opinions to distraction. 28.17 The importance of leaders being vulnerable. The example of a Pastor struggling with depression. How leaders can start to be relatable.  31.53 The demi-god in the pulpit 35.34  Sin Tastes good. Living with a mask. Nutritious intimacy. Apostle Paul his wisdom and the controversy. 38.53 Where to get Sin Tastes Good: Nourishing your soul in an empty calorie world. LINKS Sin Tastes Good – Amazon USA - https://www.amazon.com/Sin-Tastes-Good-Nourishing-Calorie-ebook/dp/B08NY1NZG4#:~:text=Sin%20Tastes%20Good%20is%20the,a%20better%20connection%20with%20God.&text=book%20for%20you!-,The%20book%20Sin%20Tastes%20Good%20will%20help%20you%20to%20have,a%20better%20connection%20with%20God. Sin Tastes Good – Amazon UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sin-Tastes-Good-Nourishing-Calorie-ebook/dp/B08NY1NZG4 Reina Rose Website – https://reina-rose.com/ Reina Rose Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/reina_rose_tv/ Pastor Terry Nightingale – Dealing with Disappointment and Mistakes - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Ep-39---Christians-dealing-with-disappointment-and-mistakes-eql2pe --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? Paul Pavlou is a curate in the Church of England. He shares his journey towards church planting including setbacks and disappointments. About Paul Pavlou Paul is a dad and husband to wife Hayley. He created the Church Plant Chat Podcast in 2020 to learn from Church Planters & Leaders around the UK and to share it as a resource for others. He is currently a Curate in Milton Keynes (within the Church of England) and has a passion to see Church Planting multiply across the UK. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 2.18 Paul’s teaching career and how it led to ministry. 4.25 What is a curate and what are they responsible for? 6.56 The Alpha course and Paul’s love of discipleship and investing in others. 9.01 Why Church plant chat podcast was started. 15.05 Who is affected by decisions Paul makes about ministry i.e. his family. The importance of a ministry couple agreeing everything together. 17.52 Disappointment and how Paul has handled them. The importance of discernment. Being able to hear that small still voice (22.05). 23.01 The next stage of Paul’s journey. 24.19 Mentoring and how it plays a pivotal role in the church. 28.39 Where to find Church Plant Chat podcast. Has leadership become and idol in the church? 30.38 Advice to potential church planters LINKS Instagram: @churchplantchat and @pcpavlou Twitter: @pcpav LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/paul-pavlou-9055ba190 LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/pcpavlou Church Plant Chat Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/church-plant-chat/id1502722723 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

State of Online Church with Minister Madge Obaseki WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? John Porterfield an expert in streaming, interviews Minister Madge Obaseki regarding her experiences of helping churches. The particular focus in this episode is changes regarding how local churches gather, worship, disciple and evangelise in these socially distanced times since the pandemic started. TRANSCRIPT SIMMARY 3.28 Minister Madge Obaseki’s career/business and ministry experience 5.21 State of online church reflection from 2020 – 2021 from a church consultant’s point of view. The reactive use of online steaming tools such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams. Church leaders experience of streaming. 7.22 Where have all the online church visitors/guests gone? 8.44 Tools some churches are using for online streaming and why pastors/leaders in the church are making these choices. Why some leaders believe online streaming may not need to be considered after lock-down has ended. 9.50 John and his talk with Amazon. The conflict leaders in the church are having with technology. 11.02 The problem with not having a strategy for online/digital church. Under resourced church leaders. Senior leaders taking on most of the responsibility and the problems with doing that e.g. mental well-being and burnout 12.28 A commitment by leaders to identify gifts to support online/digital church 13.00 Opportunities for the global church through local churches to spread the good news 13.13 An example of a church using online/digital church to reach the unchurched, new to faith and communicate with its community. Planning is a key. Using traditional communication methods e.g. phone, snail mail, sermon on conference calls mixed with digital communications. 15.07 Holistic approach to digital church. The opportunity for the church now. Some research shared. 18.36 Is hybrid church here to stay? Why not everyone will visit the local church. Google research on faith and engagement. 21.35 Canon J. John analogy LINKS John Porterfield – Social 180 Website - https://social180group.io/about JP Chalk Talks YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCFhgwI36THLEZZBiIF2FEg Minister Madge Obaseki – madgeobaseki.com/videos --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? How does a leader in the church recover from crisis? How to you plan for crisis? Those are some of the questions Pastor Kent James who is based in Jacksonville, Florida will be discussing with Minister Madge Obaseki. Pastor Kent James biography Pastor Kent James is a leader, creator and influencer. His daily work involves developing talent and training corporate leaders to reach their full potential. A former youth leader and teacher, Kent is lead pastor at Restoration Church of Jacksonville located in Florida. He has written four books and he contributes inspiring articles to Program Success magazine. He has been married to his wife Donnette for 24 years and together they have a son in the United States Army and a seventeen-year-old son who is active in the church. 1.23 How to manage 2 vocations i.e. being a Church leader and Employee. AUDIO GRAM 5.27 How his faith journey impacted his current standing as a pastor 9.03 Setting up a unique ministry and partnering with other organisations 9.39 Being a Church without walls…on a Sunday 10.12 Dealing with well-meaning advice, opposition and fear along the path of calling and purpose 13.55 The challenge that turned into crisis and where that left the leadership team and particularly his wife 21.21 Having a contingency plan to navigate through crisis 22.57 Losing faith 23.58 Why allowing people to lead in their own authentic way is the best way and why it might be advantageous to the lead pastor. May 10 week Leadership Training called LEAD 21 31.23 Advice to other leaders in the church when dealing with crisis. Consulting with key stake holders to map out crisis scenario. The vantage point of a leader and those working in the trenches. 35.32 Dealing with brokenness. Getting back to wholeness LINKS Restoration Church Jacksonville - https://www.myrcj.org/about-rcj Upgraded by grace – your abundant life the way God intended – – UK link https://www.amazon.co.uk/Upgraded-Grace-Your-Abundant-Intended/dp/1501091948 USA link for the book - https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Grace-Your-Abundant-Intended/dp/1501091948 YouTube video of Ep. 42 Healthy Church Growth Show Podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE102sgvTtk --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

What is this episode all about? Joe talks about his experience as a Christian Leader, how he manages organisational change, how he grew the organisation, and how he operates in the secular realm as a Christian Leader. He also talks about how UK Churches can engage with the KICK organisation. About Joe Lowther Joe Lowther was previously a Principal of an outstanding School and is now CEO of KICK. KICK’s mission is to transform young people’s lives, with God’s love, through sport and support. KICK’s vision is to see a generation of young people reach their God given potential; where communities have been socially impacted; and where spiritual change has transformed a nation. KICK do this through values-driven physical education, street dance, mentoring, chaplaincy in schools and church-based KICK Academies to impact young people. KICK has grown rapidly to engage over 12,000 young people a week across 77 schools and 24 church-based KICK Academies. KICK is committed to seeing young people experience a hope for the future and joy in the present. Joe has recently completed an MSc in Change Management for Charities. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY LINKS KICK Transforming Lives through sport - https://kick.org.uk/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT This episode takes a departure from the usual format. There are contributions from 8 people who’ve Either appeared in previous episodes are great supporters of the podcast. This episode will explain the journey thus far in producing this weekly show and the lessons learnt….. As one of the contributors, Jacqueline Malcolm stated, the number 40 is a significant number in the bible. For example Jesus fasted and prayed for 40 days and nights. Rain   fell for "forty days and forty nights" during the Flood, (Genesis 7:4). Forty days was also the period from the resurrection to the   ascension of Jesus (Acts 1:3). It is period of testing, trial, and   probation. Great breakthroughs have happened after a forty-day period. THE CONTRIBUTORS FOR THIS EPISODE Ed Stolle a POWERFUL Apologist based in Maryland,  USA who had some timely and pertinent, matters to discuss about helping young people defend their faith in Episode 38 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Ep-38---How-to-help-young-people-defend-their-faith-eqd9lr Dr Shana Wise of Wise Choice Ministries based in Jacksonville, Florida - She spoke about re-opening her assembly Wise Choice Ministries in Episode 21 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-21---Establishing-a-New-Church-the-2nd-time-around-ejg8cj A young man who listened to Episode 36 https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-36---Youth-and-Faith-in-a-post-Christian-place-epht2m with Youth Pastor Kendall Dooley in Arizona about post Christian   attitudes and how it affects faith amongst young people. Pastor Paul Ilo from The Higher Place Church UK who   appeared in 2 episodes i.e. 5 & 26 on leading in crisis through the pandemic.  Episode 5 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-5---How-church-leaders-can-lead-in-a-crisis-ee67rahttps://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/ Episode-26---Leading-through-a-crisis---church-new-norm-el88te John Porterfield from Southern California a   streaming expert from Episode 31 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-31---Online-Streaming-Basics-for-Churches-emramq Jacqueline Malcolm - from the Creative Platform Academy - https://www.creativeplatformacademy.com/about.html Message read from Nik Read from Big Picture Charity Films appeared in Episode 20 - https://anchor.fm/healthy-church-growth-sho/episodes/Episode-20---Highlighting-your-cause-by-improving-your-church-video-ej6vbd Apostle Obaseki madgeobaseki/videos --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? A subject rarely discussed is how Christians whether leaders or lay people face disappointment and mistakes and move forward. Pastor Terry Nightingale shares authentic accounts of his own experience and provides sage advice. ABOUT TERRY NIGHTINGALE Terry is a pastor serving in Perth, Western Australia, having previously worked in education. Terry has been involved in Christian ministry from teaching to evangelism, and from music ministry to pastoral care. Terry started writing in 2003 when he had an idea for a Christian novel with an adventure involving time travel. Terry also writes a weekly blog at terrynightingale.com called ‘The best is yet to come’, ‘Looking Back to Move Forward’ is his first non-fiction book for Christian leaders – in fact for anyone who occasionally faces discouragement or setbacks. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 0.0 – 2.58 – Special News for Episode 40 2.59 – Pastoral experience and journey of Terry Nightingale 3.59 Reason behind addressing mistakes and disappointments in his new book. 5.50 What the world says and what the reality is about looking back on previous mistakes and disappointments. What does God and the bible teach about disappointment? 6.53 Terry on being authentic as a Christian leader. The importance of honest role models. 8.54 Influencers and what authenticity means for different generations of people in the 21st century. How to encourage people to be authentic. 11.49 Example of a mistake Terry made which he reflected upon. The importance of admitting one’s mistakes. 17.04 The importance of listening to God for direction through prayer and the word of God. 19.48 – 20.19 The danger of Ministers getting caught up in the busyness of life. 20.49 - The pressures leaders like pastors face such as conflicting priorities and distraction. The importance of spiritual health and well-being for leaders in the church. The oxygen mask analogy. 23.37 Knowing when to give up, close or change. 26.40 Advice to leaders to make difficult decisions. 29.45 The book Looking back to move forward – who was it written for? 31.25 Advice from one pastor to another LINKS BOOK PUBLISHER – Looking Back to Move Forward - https://www.kharispublishing.com/ TO PURCHASE THE BOOK AMAZON UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Looking-Back-Move-Forward-Fruitfulness-ebook/dp/B08PQ65CVM AMAZON USA - https://www.amazon.com/Looking-Back-Move-Forward-Fruitfulness/dp/194627772X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=looking+back+to+move+forward&qid=1613740060&sr=8-1 AMAZON AUSTRAILIA - https://www.amazon.com.au/Looking-Back-Move-Forward-Fruitfulness/dp/194627772X/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=looking+back+to+move+forward&qid=1613740125&sr=8-1 LINK --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT? Helping young people defend their faith especially as most of the worlds we’re living a post Christian context. Ed Stolle shares his experience and ideas on how to answer some of the difficult questions young people can answer. ABOUT ED STOLLE Ed Stolle is a Certified Financial Crimes Investigator, Certified Fraud Examiner. Though and expert in his field, his passion is developing and implementing evidence-based apologetics (defending one’s faith). His teaching is geared towards young people, their carers and youth leaders. Ed teaches a range of topics in classes and offers his knowledge and expertise free of charge to churches, youth groups and Christian organisations. Ed is based in Maryland, USA where he lives with his family. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 1.11 How Ed started as an apologist. 2.27 Answering a child’s question about the authenticity of a bible story using contemporary examples. 5.51 What does apologetics mean? 6.51 Are leaders in the Church equipped to defend their faith? Content of the bible vs doctrine. 9.34 Churches uncomfortable talking about certain topics. Leaders in the church answering hard or uncomfortable questions. 10.49 Anti-Christian bias in present day culture. 11.15 The challenge to Christian faith and it’s impact on engaging youth. 13.52 Challenge to an 8-year-old practicing his faith in school in Michigan USA and a teen who was stopped from praying in her break in Texas and University students loosing their faith. Religions, State and separation of the two. 17.35 The hidden agenda thesis. Atheist quote from the late Professor of Philosophy, Princeton University, Richard Rorty- see quote here - https://www.adflegal.org/blog/we-hate-you-now-give-us-your-kids-so-we-can-turn-them-against-you#close 18.45 What parents/carers/leaders in the church do to encourage young people in their faith. Preparing them for people attacking their faith. The importance of backing up claims with evidence. 22.48 Advice. Build relationships. Don’t avoid difficult questions. Teach the bible with evidence. 26.08 Barna research on the Connected Generation and rates of depression. 26.56 How to Get in touch with Ed Stolle. Get in touch with Ed Stolle for a FREE workshop for youth or parents via email - edls@yahoo.com Hank Hanegraaff The Bible Answer Book. Provides quick answers tricky questions- https://www.christianbook.com/bible-answer-book-volume-2-ebook/hank-hanegraaff/9781418577957/pd/13666EB (eBook). Also available on Amazon and other book retails around the world.. Barna Group’s world-wide research project The Connected Generation about youth and faith https://theconnectedgeneration.com God’s not dead - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gods-Not-Dead-Willie-Robertson/dp/B00OSNV8I8 Robert Pershing Wadlow the 20th century giant https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Wadlow James Bartley swallowed by a whale- https://www.ycaol.com/swallowed.htm --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message

WHAT IS THIS EPISODE ALL ABOUT We discuss the so called ‘Connected Generation’ with Nicole Lewis, Associate Student Director of Agape UK. What does it really means to disciple young people in difficult times and circumstances. BIOG Nicole Lewis serves as the Associate Student Director for Agape UK, A UK registered charity that is part of Campus Crusade for Christ International. Nicole helps to lead the Student work across the UK and locally in London serves as the City Coordinator for Agape. During Nicole's twenty-four years of doing Student Work in three different countries (USA, Italy, UK) she has served in various roles: local student worker, team leader, missions mobilizer and also National Student Director. {Nicole has been a speaker at several student conferences and retreats in the US} and says that in twenty-four years of student work, she still feels passionate about students knowing Jesus and following him as lifelong multiplying disciples. TRANSCRIPT SUMMARY 2.07 What Nicole does and the organisation Agape UK. 3.33 Are there differences in students/young people across different continents as far as faith is concerned. Countries include Italy, USA and UK. 8.26 How Agape UK is helping young people to develop their faith. 12.31 Barna.com Research on the Connected Generation and what it means to the Church at large. Why are young people more anxious than in previous generations? Should mental health be included in Christian discipleship programmes? 17.The film: The boy who harnessed the wind and possible keys to easier access to resources meaning their might be a lack of appreciation for what we already have. 20.25 Definition of Discipleship. 2nd Timothy: 2. Dallas Willard book – The divine conspiracy. 22.30 Advice and guidance for Church leaders and leaders in the church on discipleship. Being intentional when considering discipling young people. 27.13 Avoiding the propensity to disciple someone to self rather than Jesus. LINKS Agape UK - https://www.agape.org.uk Connected Generation & Research on Gen Z - https://www.barna.com Dallas Willard – The Divine Conspiracy - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/173454.The_Divine_Conspiracy Episode 36 - with Kendall Dooley - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-36-youth-and-faith-in-a-post-christian-place/id1453862091?i=1000506768084 Episode 35 - with Reverend Chris Lee -  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-35-rev-chris-lee-60-second-sermon-and-young-people/id1453862091?i=1000506404124 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/healthy-church-growth-sho/message