In All Things

In this special episode of In All Things, guest host Marc de Jeu, National Director of Church Health, is joined by Julie Hawkins and Michelle Tepper, Alpha USA’s National Director for Denominational Engagement, for a rich conversation about evangelism, hospitality, and the Church’s call to reach those who are searching. Together, they explore Alpha USA’s ministry and why it serves as such a powerful “front porch” for evangelism by creating welcoming spaces where people can ask honest questions, explore faith, and encounter the gospel in community. Michelle shares Alpha’s heart for discipleship and spiritual conversation, while Marc and Julie reflect on how EPC churches can faithfully integrate Alpha into their local ministry contexts. Whether your church is looking for new ways to engage your community or strengthen evangelistic pathways, this episode offers encouragement and concrete next steps for ministry. 🔗 Explore EPC Church Health tools and resources: https://epconnect.org/churchhealthtools 🔗 Learn more about Alpha USA and how to get started: https://alphausa.org

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Brandon Jolley, a member of the Benefits Resources, Inc. (BRI) Committee, for a practical and encouraging conversation about how the EPC’s benefits program works and why participation matters. Together, Brandon and Dean walk through the heart behind EPC Benefits, explaining how the program supports pastors, church staff, and their families through medical coverage, wellness resources, and long-term care. Brandon offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the benefits plan functions, what makes it different from navigating insurance independently, and why a strong, connected participation base helps strengthen care for everyone involved. This episode is an invitation to pastors, sessions, and church leaders to explore how EPC Benefits can serve their communities, and a reminder that caring for those who serve the Church is a vital part of the Church’s witness. 🔗 Learn more about EPC Benefits and how to join at epconnect.org/benefits

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Julie Lynn Ashley, who shares her family’s powerful story of how the EPC and the EPC Benefits program supported them through one of the most challenging seasons of their ministry journey. Julie Lynn reflects on the realities of pastoral life, the unexpected moments when benefits become more than paperwork, and how the care from the wider EPC family provided when her family needed it most. Her testimony offers a meaningful reminder that ministry families are not meant to walk alone, and that tangible support from the Church makes a lasting difference. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry spouse, elder, or church leader, this episode offers both encouragement and practical insight into how the EPC seeks to care for those who serve. To connect with Julie Lynn, visit her website or Alongside Ministry Wives. 🔗 Learn more about EPC’s Benefits Program at epconnect.org/benefits 🔗 Watch Julie Lynn’s most recent webinar here: https://youtu.be/ZLXesFa6NcQ?si=GEvz4eGyT54z62sr

In the first episode of our new miniseries, The Benefit of Joining Our Benefits, Dean sits down with Carolee Richendollar, Executive Director of Benefits Resources, to explore how the EPC supports pastors, church staff, and their families through comprehensive benefits and holistic care. Together, they discuss why benefits matter not only practically, but spiritually, and how healthy coverage can create space for pastors to serve with greater confidence and longevity. Carolee also shares why so many people enrolled in the plan aren’t fully utilizing the resources available to them and offers encouragement for pastors and sessions to take a fresh look at what’s already at their fingertips. This episode is a helpful reminder that caring for those called to ministry is a shared responsibility of the Church. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or church administrator, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical next steps for making the most of the EPC’s Benefits Resources. 🔗 Learn more about EPC Benefits Resources and explore available plans and support at: https://www.epconnect.org/benefits

In this episode, Dean sits down with Stuart Chen to explore the often-overlooked seasons of calling that come after a career has ended. Drawing from his own experience serving at an international school in Central Asia, Stuart reflects on the different phases of retirement and the surprising opportunities they can hold for meaningful ministry. This conversation is an encouragement to believers of all ages, especially those nearing or entering retirement, to prayerfully consider how God might be inviting them to use their time, skills, and availability in this next chapter of life. As Stuart reminds us, the call to follow Jesus doesn’t end with a career; it continues wherever God leads. 📩 Interested in exploring how your retirement years could be used in ministry? Stuart welcomes conversation and questions. Feel free to reach out to him at polycarp316@gmail.com

In this episode, Dean sits down with Annie Rose, the EPC’s National Director of Ministerial Health, to unpack the findings from the 2025 Pastoral Well-Being Survey. More than 200 EPC pastors and retired pastors participated, giving us a clear picture of both the joys and the pressures of ministry today. Annie walks us through the survey’s key insights, including pastoral satisfaction, sources of stress, spiritual health trends, and surprising generational differences in how pastors seek support. She also highlights the critical resources available to EPC pastors, from counseling and coaching to sabbatical planning, medical care, and benevolence funds. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or church member who wants to better understand and care for your leaders, this episode is full of wisdom, compassion, and practical next steps. 📄 Read Annie’s full article here 🙏 Learn more about care resources for pastors: ✉️ Contact Annie: annie.rose@epc.org

In the final episode of our Gospel Hospitality series, Dean and Brad Strait conclude their conversation by reflecting on Jesus as the ultimate stranger: the one who entered our world to bring us home. Together, they explore the extravagant love and radical acceptance taught throughout Scripture and what it means for the Church to embody that same spirit of welcome today. Brad and Dean discuss the importance of creating a safe and gracious space within the Church for those who are seeking, questioning, or longing for belonging. Through stories, Scripture, and personal reflection, they remind us that gospel hospitality mirrors the heart of God who invites everyone to the table, not because they’ve earned it, but because they are loved. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

In this second episode of our Gospel Hospitality series, Dean and Brad Strait return to dive deeper into what it means to show hospitality, not only with our homes but also with our hearts and minds. Together, they explore the idea of intellectual hospitality – how we can engage others with both grace and conviction, even when we disagree. Bran and Dean discuss the importance of humility and curiosity in conversations, how to navigate different environments with a spirit of welcome, and how Jesus himself modeled hospitality through his interactions with people across every walk of life. This episode invites listeners to reflect on how Christ-like hospitality calls us to listen well, speak graciously, and embody truth with gentleness in an increasingly divided world. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

In this first episode of our three-part series on Gospel Hospitality, Dean is joined by Brad Strait, Lead Pastor of Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church and the host of the upcoming 46th General Assembly. Together, they explore what it truly means to embody the heart of hospitality as followers of Christ. Brad and Dean discuss the biblical foundations of gospel hospitality, what Scripture teaches about welcoming the stranger, and how hospitality is not just a cultural nicety but a reflection of God’s own character. They also look forward to the ultimate hospitality we will be granted in heaven, where every tribe and tongue will be gathered around the table of the Lord. This episode reminds us that gospel hospitality is more than opening our doors. It’s opening our lives to others, just as God has welcomed us through Christ. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

“In this very special 200th episode of In All Things, our producer and guest host Gianna Lazzaro sits down with Dean to reflect on the incredible journey of the podcast so far. Dean shares stories about the podcast’s humble beginnings, recording in a closet, and how it has grown into a platform that connects and encourages the EPC family around the world.   Dean also reflects on his nearly five years as Stated Clerk, the joys of serving the denomination, and how he has seen God at work across the EPC. Together, Gianna and Dean look back at the impact of In All Things over its first 200 episodes and reaffirm the importance of the podcast’s core verse from Colossians 1, which continues to shape every conversation.   Thank you for being part of this journey. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without you! Follow the EPC on social media to stay connected by clicking HERE

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Bryan Rhodes, pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, Louisiana, for a thoughtful conversation about what it truly means to belong to a church. Together, they reflect on the church’s covenant relationship with God, the promises believers keep to one another, and the responsibilities of a faithful community of disciples. Bryan also shares from his own pastoral experience about navigating seasons of transition and why covenant community matters now more than ever. His book on the importance of family worship will soon be available on Amazon. 👉 Connect with Bryan Rhodes: bryan.rhodes@gcsla.org 👉 Explore Church Health Resources

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by filmmaker, church health coordinator, and our own Digital Content Lead Ritchey Cable to explore how creativity and beauty shape the life and worship of the church. Ritchey shares insights from his dual calling as a film director and presbytery leader, reflecting on how storytelling, art, and imagination can enrich discipleship and renew community. Whether you’re an artist, pastor, or church member, this conversation will inspire you to see creativity not as extra, but as vital to the church’s witness and worship. 👉 Learn more about Ritchey’s films at portalpictures.studio 👉 Explore resources from the EPC Church Health Team

In this first episode of our special two-part miniseries on church administration, Dean sits down with Greg Flagg, Executive Associate Pastor at Sierra Presbyterian Church in Nevada City, California. Greg shares from his experience as an Executive Pastor to discuss the often-unsung role that church administrators play in building healthy, sustainable ministries. From navigating HR challenges in small churches to identifying support structures that help pastors and staff flourish, Greg highlights how executive pastors serve as a backbone for their congregations. He and Dean also explore current trends in church administration, the value of intentional leadership development, and the importance of gatherings and networks for XP Admins across the EPC. Whether you're an executive pastor, a lead pastor, or someone curious about what happens behind the scenes of your church, this episode sheds light on the crucial (and complex) work of church administration.

In the final installment of our Church and Culture series, Dean is joined by pastor and author Luke Johnston for a powerful conversation on what it means to replant a church, and why doing so often requires deep humility, local insight, and faith in the God who brings life out of death. Drawing from Luke’s book, If It Dies: Why Replanting is the Hope for Dying Churches and How You Can Lead It, he and Dean explore Luke’s journey to replanting his church, how to recognize when a church plant needs to be reimagined, and practical wisdom for leaders facing ministry transitions. This episode is a meaningful close to our series and a hopeful word for anyone wrestling with cultural change, church decline, or missional calling. 🔗 Check out Luke’s book here: If It Dies 📘 Explore EPC Ministry Resources: epconnect.org/ministryresources

In this episode, Dean sits down with Michael Langer, CEO of Faithful Presence, to talk about what it means to live as a follower of Jesus in the public square. Drawing from his experience in Washington D.C., Michael reflects on his personal journey, the current cultural and spiritual landscape of our nation’s capital, and the critical need for gospel-rooted engagement in public life. They discuss the Church’s role in civic discourse, how to model grace and truth in polarized environments, and offer practical wisdom for believers who want to pursue unity, justice, and faithfulness in every sphere of life. Whether you’re serving in ministry, politics, or the marketplace, this conversation will encourage you to think deeply about your calling and what it means to be a faithful presence in today’s world. 🔗 Learn more about Faithful Presence: faithful-presence.org 📚 Explore EPC’s resources for ministry and discipleship: epconnect.org/ministryresources

In this special Independence Day episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by pastor, author, and teacher Zack Eswine for a thoughtful conversation on what it means to live faithfully at the intersection of Christianity and citizenship. Together, they explore the complex tensions between faith and politics, and offer encouragement for believers navigating our modern political landscape.   Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by political division or searching for clarity on how to engage as a Christian, this episode offers grounded insight and a grace-filled perspective on our modern world.   🎧 Listen to the Truth Over Tribe podcast: https://podcast.truthovertribe.com/episodes 🔗 Explore the EPC's Ministerial Vocation Resources: https://epconnect.org/ministryresources/

This special episode of In All Things comes to you straight from the 45th General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church! Guest host and podcast producer Gianna Lazzaro sits down with Dean Weaver, the EPC's Stated Clerk, for a behind-the-scenes conversation on all that's been happening this week in Michigan. Together, we reflect on the worship services, fellowship, and equipping opportunities that are energizing the EPC family, as well as some of the highlights from across the Assembly. From networking lunches to powerful reaching, from late-night laughter to Spirit-filled moments of prayer; this episode captures the heart of what it means to gather as a denomination grounded in our Firm Foundation. Whether you're here with us or listening from afar, we invite you into the rhythm and beauty of GA week.  Be sure to catch next week's episode for a full debrief on the business decisions made at this year's Assembly and what's ahead for the EPC. 

In this episode of our General Assembly 2025 Series, Dean sits down with Dr. Karen Jobes – Professor Emerita of New Testament Greek and Greek Exegesis at Wheaton College, and one of our featured worship speakers at GA 2025. Karen shares how her love for Greek and Scripture led her to teaching, study, and service to the Church. She and Dean talk about the passage Karen will be preaching from during General Assembly, found in 1 Peter, and how it ties in with this year’s theme of Firm Foundation. Her reflections point us back to the living hope we have in Christ – and the Word that sustains and anchors us in every season of life and ministry. 📚 You can explore Dr. Jobes’ work and writing here. 📍Register for GA and learn more at epconnect.org/ga2025

In his episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver is joined by Bob Garment, the Chief Parliamentarian of the EPC. As we look ahead to the 45th General Assembly, Bob walks us through the courts of the church, explains the role of the Chief Parliamentarian, and helps us understand how our polity supports the mission of the EPC. He also shares some insider tips for commissioners preparing to attend General Assembly – whether it’s your first time or your forty-fifth! This episode is a great behind-the-scenes look at what happens during business sessions and how these gatherings reflect our theological commitments and shared vision. 📩 Have questions? You can reach Bob directly at bob.garment@epc.org. 🔗 Learn more and register for General Assembly at epconnect.org/ga2025

In this episode of In All Things, our book club series continues as we explore the next section of Steven Garber’s The Seamless Life. Dean Weaver is joined by a thoughtful panel of guests—Rachel Toone, Nancy Duff, Marcos Ortega, Joe Kim, and Roger Woodworth—to discuss vocation, occupation, and the intersection of the two. How do we understand the work we do in light of God’s calling in our lives? Is there a difference between our job and our vocation? Together, our guests reflect on Garber’s insights, sharing their own experiences of living faithfully in their professions while holding onto a broader vision of calling. From wrestling with fragmentation in our daily lives to embracing the responsibilities that come with knowing and loving the world, this conversation challenges us to think deeply about what it means to integrate faith and work. Whether you’re in ministry, business, education, or any other field, this episode will encourage you to consider how your occupation is part of something much bigger—an invitation to live with coherence, purpose, and love. Tune in for a rich discussion on calling, responsibility, and the beauty of a life well-lived. 📖 Interested in reading along? Get your copy of The Seamless Life here!