theFormed.life

Poem:Lord Jesus,I have nothing to give today,Except you.I have nothing to receive today, Except you.A perfect day. ~ Esther Huhn

On today’s episode, Bill and Paul share some exciting news about an incredible journey Christ Community Church is embarking on in 2026 called “With God.” This isn’t just another sermon series. It's a year-long, church-wide experience that invites everyone, from kids to adults, to engage with the entire story of Scripture from Genesis to Revelation.They discuss how this initiative will weave together weekly sermons, daily reading plans, special events, and new resources, all designed to help individuals and families immerse themselves more deeply in God's word—not just on Sundays, but all throughout the week. Listen in as they reflect on the history and heart behind this vision, share personal hopes for its impact, and offer a glimpse of what’s to come for Christ Community in this pivotal season of spiritual formation.3 Main TakeawaysYear of the Bible in 2026: Christ Community Church is launching a year-long, church-wide focus called "With God" in 2026. It is a journey from Genesis to Revelation. It’s designed to help everyone engage deeply with the whole story of the Bible—not just on Sundays, but in daily life.Integrated Spiritual Formation: This initiative is much more than a sermon series. It involves multiple layers of engagement, including tailored Bible reading plans, the Formed.life spiritual formation resources, events (like the Story of Scripture seminar with Dr. Yarborough), and children’s and student ministry integration. The desire is for intergenerational participation and transformation.Hope for Deep Transformation: Bill and Paul express their excitement and hope that the church community will fall more in love with God's word and be transformed by being "with God" through Scripture. Their vision is for this year to foster unity, spiritual growth, and a deeper commitment to living out biblical truths both individually and as a community, especially in a season of transition for the church.Resources:Story of Scripture Event: https://www.thestoryofscripture.org/event/kansas-city-mo-january-2026theFormed.life: https://theformed.life/With God: cckc.church/withgod/Timestamps:00:00 "Engaging God's Timeless Word"04:28 "Scripture Engagement and Growth"06:29 "With God, Together Transformed"

Poem:O King of our desire whom we despise,King of the nations never on the throne,Unfound foundation, cast-off cornerstone,Rejected joiner, making many one,You have no form or beauty for our eyes,A King who comes to give away his crown,A King within our rags of flesh and bone.We pierce the flesh that pierces our disguise,For we ourselves are found in you alone.Come to us now and find in us your throne,O King within the child within the clay,O hidden King who shapes us in the playOf all creation. Shape us for the dayYour coming Kingdom comes into its own. ~  Malcolm Guite

Scripture:Moses and Aaron and his sons were to camp to the east of the tabernacle, toward the sunrise, in front of the tent of meeting. They were responsible for the care of the sanctuary on behalf of the Israelites. – Numbers 3:38Poem:Struggling to fall asleep,I wrestle with tomorrow.How will the people respond?Will everyone cooperate? Bone-weary from the enormous taskThat will greet me in the morning,I must surrenderTo the need for rest.The rays of the morningSlip under the flaps of the tentTo touch my eyelidsAnd welcome me to the new day.The gentle sway of the curtainBrings in dew-kissed morning air, But my mind already wrestlesWith the burden I must carry.My muscles protestAs I rise to respond. I step through the openingInto the divine greetingOf the Creator’s goodness.I stand in awe of it all– As our God feeds usWith his faithfulness.My feet feel the earth As my face soaks inThe gift of sunlight.The pressure of Today’s responsibilitySets up camp against meAnnouncing its threat to my peace.My God is with me.I will breathe the next breath.I will take one step forward. ~ Esther Huhn, Today’s Responsibility

Hosts Paul Brandes and Jacob Nannie consider the heart of the Advent season by exploring the question: "Where on earth does God live?" Centered around the upcoming Advent teaching series, "The Meaning of the Manger," the discussion journeys from the nativity scene and its connection to God's presence throughout Scripture. The theme of God dwelling with humanity is traced through five key moments in the biblical narrative: the garden of Eden, the building of the temple, the arrival of Jesus, the creation of the church, and finally God’s promise for the future. All these scriptural stories reflect humanity’s longing for connection with God during Advent and the anticipation of Christ’s return.Whether you’re looking for a fresh perspective on the Advent season or want to see how the entire sweep of the Bible speaks to God’s desire to be present with his people, this episode is the perfect place to begin your journey. 3 Main Takeaways:God’s Presence and Dwelling with His PeopleFrom Eden, to the temple, to Jesus’ incarnation in the manger, and continuing with the presence of the Holy Spirit in the church, the biblical story is seen as a journey of God wanting to be intimately present with humanity.Tracing God’s Dwelling Places Throughout ScriptureThe Advent series will journey through the major dwelling places of God. It starts in Eden, moves through the tabernacle and temple, reaches its climax with Christ’s first coming, and culminates in God’s ultimate dwelling with his people at the end of time. Anticipation and Hope in AdventAdvent is a season of waiting and anticipation. It is not just remembering Christ’s first coming, but also looking ahead to his return when God will dwell with his people forever. Timestamps:00:00 "Where Does God Live?"05:12 "Temple Thread from Eden Onward"09:51 "Local Church: Hope of World"10:41 "God's Plan: The Church's Mission"16:38 Unchanging Word in Transition17:43 "Dream Jobs Beyond the Norm"

Hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman sit down with Dr. Mark Yarbrough, president of Dallas Theological Seminary and a passionate advocate for helping people grasp the overarching story of Scripture.If you’ve ever felt lost trying to connect the dots in the Bible or wondered how individual stories fit into the grand narrative, this episode is for you.Dr. Yarbrough shares his personal journey from a small town upbringing to his calling in ministry and education, revealing how his encounters with Scripture transformed his perspective. This conversation considers why understanding the Bible as a continuous, connected story can change how we see God, trust him with our lives, and participate fully in his story.This discussion includes practical steps for reading the Bible more holistically, the importance of big-picture thinking, and the impact of experiences like The Story of Scripture seminar in churches across the country. Whether you’re new to the Bible or a lifelong student, this conversation will help you see yourself as a vital part of God’s unfolding narrative.3 Main Takeaways:1. Understanding the Bible as a Unified Story Deepens Faith:Dr. Yarbrough emphasizes that seeing the Bible as one continuous, interconnected story from Genesis to Revelation can truly transform a person's spiritual life. 2. We Are Participants in God’s Story, Not Just Observers:The power of engaging with Scripture as our shared narrative helps us recognize we are part of God’s unfolding story. Rather than standing back and looking at Bible stories as isolated events, Scripture invites us to participate in God’s mission.3. Methodical and Big-Picture Bible Reading is Essential:Developing Bible reading habits that connect the dots between individual passages and the overarching story, helps us approach Scripture with both the “forest” (the big narrative) and the “trees” (individual stories) point of view. Resources:- https://www.thestoryofscripture.org/event/kansas-city-mo-january-2026Timestamps:00:00 Church Engagement and Spiritual Growth05:21 Bible: More Than Myth Stories07:40 Faithful Parents Living the Gospel10:14 Old Testament's Connection to Jesus15:12 Journey to Dallas Seminary18:06 "Big Picture and Little Picture"20:57 "Bible's Story and Our Mission"24:13 "Teaching the Bible to Youth"28:27 Grace, Mission, and Understanding30:30 "God's Continuous Story Explained"32:57 "Resource Demand in Modern Age"38:13 Yellowstone Fishing Adventure38:49 Alaska's Midnight Milky Way

Welcome to a special episode of theFormed.life podcast, where hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman revisit one of their most compelling conversations with special guest Tom Nelson. In a time marked by political tension, division, and uncertainty, we dive deep into what it means for followers of Jesus to engage faithfully—and fruitfully—in the public square.This episode is packed with essential moments from a previous three-part series exploring the radical teachings of Jesus, especially the call to love and pray for our enemies. Together, our hosts and guest unpack the dynamic and diverse perspectives within Jesus’s own circle of disciples, shedding light on how to navigate differences without division. They discuss the power of being “salt and light” in our communities as described in Matthew 5, the importance of cultivating virtue over simply winning arguments, and the need for the Church to model healthy, respectful dialogue in a polarized culture.You’ll also hear practical wisdom for embracing humility, fostering genuine community, and developing spiritual habits that ground us in God’s love—no matter what the news cycle brings.Whether politics is your favorite topic or one you try to avoid, this conversation will equip and encourage you to engage with grace, conviction, and hope. Let’s lean in together and discover how our faithfully present lives can bless the world around us, even in turbulent times.3 Main Takeaways:Model Respectful Dialogue:This episode challenges the church to set the tone for political conversations—learning from one another, respecting differences, and gaining wisdom without feeling threatened.Embody Faithful Presence: The idea of being “salt and light” means showing up in our communities with genuine humility and influence, but not domination. Cultivate Personal Virtue: The episode emphasizes that who we become matters more than what we do. Spiritual practices, community, and the intentional pursuit of the fruit of the Spirit can transform our approach to civic engagement.Full Episodes:Navigating Politics with Biblical Principles: Dual Citizenship & Faithful Presence - Part 1 | POD 031: https://youtu.be/JhtesHcb6agNavigating Politics: Postures for Public Engagement - Part 2 | POD 032: https://youtu.be/18JjRBO6WBoPractices for Navigating Faith and Politics - Part 3 | POD 033: https://youtu.be/RmpnXFXPwbITimestamps:00:00 Love Your Enemies: Radical Teaching04:11 "Diversity in Christian Community"08:27 "Church Unity Amid Differences"12:42 "Salt, Light, and Incarnation"15:13 "Humility and Gentleness in Leadership"18:08 "Who Are We Becoming?"20:04 "Faith, Virtue, and Growth"24:49 Spiritual Habits and Life Transitions26:27 Perfect Love Overcomes Fear29:46 Captivated by Art's Impact

Introduction:Welcome to this episode of theFormed.life podcast! Hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman dive into a topic that’s reshaping family life across America: youth sports. Once a casual backyard activity, youth sports has transformed into a $40 billion industry filled with high pressure, early specialization, and packed calendars. Drawing on Sarah Zylstra's expert insights and research, our hosts explore both the goodness and the challenges this new landscape brings—not just for kids, but for parents, too.In today’s conversation, you’ll hear thoughtful reflections on why youth sports have become so professionalized, what’s driving parents to invest so much, and how this impacts family rhythms, faith formation, and even finances. From the blessings of leadership and community to the dangers of burnout, misplaced priorities, and accidental idolatry, we’ll unpack what it looks like to navigate these waters as people who want to shape not just future athletes, but well-formed human beings.Whether you’re a sports-loving family, new to parenting, or simply care about how culture forms us, this episode offers wisdom, real stories, and practical questions to help you discern the best path forward. Let’s jump right in!Bio:Sarah Zylstra is a seasoned journalist and Senior Writer at The Gospel Coalition, renowned for her thoughtful, narrative-driven storytelling. She specializes in cutting-edge features that explore how Christianity intersects with contemporary culture, society, and family life. Sarah brings years of reporting experience, having previously served as a writer for Christianity Today, and her work is a vital resource for understanding the major trends impacting churches and communities today.3 Main TakeawaysYouth Sports Have Shifted from Play to IndustryOver the past few decades, youth sports in America have moved from being casual, neighborhood-based play to a highly professionalized, $40 billion industry. This shift is due to a combination of factors: increased affluence, fewer children per family, changes in family routines (e.g. more parents working), safety concerns, and the desire to keep kids off screens and engaged with others. As a result, many families find themselves structuring their entire lives (time, finances, social circles) around their kids’ sports schedules.Formation: Both the Good and the Malforming SidesParticipation in sports can be a beautiful gift, contributing to community, leadership, discipleship, and personal growth. However, youth sports (or any extracurricular activity) is not guaranteed to form good character—it has just as much potential to deform. The podcast challenges listeners to consider if sports have become an idol, taking precedence over faith, family, or holistic well-being. One practical suggestion is a “time and money audit” to see what your true priorities are, and to honestly reflect on whether the activity is still life-giving or has tipped into something unhealthy.Challenging the Scholarship Myth and Rethinking PrioritiesOne of the major pressures families face is the belief that early and intense sports specialization is the path to college scholarships and future opportunities. The facts shared in the episode highlight that the odds of getting a significant athletic scholarship are extremely low (only about 2% of competitive high school athletes play Division 1, and fewer still get substantial scholarships or lucrative NIL deals). The hosts encourage parents to focus on joy, relationship, character development, and wisely choosing family priorities (such as church and real friendships) over chasing an unlikely financial return on their investment in youth sports.Resources:Gospel Bound - Sarah Zylstra & Collin Hansen: https://a.co/d/fZvCMSLTimestamps:00:00 The Benefits and Challenges of Sports06:06 "Balancing Goodness in Youth Sports"06:59 Identifying Sports as an Idol12:51 Youth Sports Specialization Challenges14:09 "Don't Specialize in Sports Early"17:40 "Invest in 529 for College"22:09 "Sports Shape Communities and Youth"24:34 Parental Influence on Child Athletes26:54 Prioritizing Faith in Busy Lives31:29 Navigating Faith and Hard Choices35:22 "Finding Joy in Kids' Sports"36:24 "Time, Priorities, and Reflection"Hashtags:#YouthSports #ChristianParenting #SpiritualFormation #HealthyBoundaries #SportsIdolatry #FamilyLife #CharacterDevelopment #CommunityImpact #AthleticScholarships #theFormedLifePodcast

Introduction:On this episode of theFormed.life podcast, hosts Paul Brandes and Bill Gorman dive into the cultural phenomenon of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement, exploring why stories of romance and celebrity captivate us all. Joined by special guest Victoria Sawyer—a licensed professional counselor in Kansas City who is newly engaged herself—the conversation ranges from the whirlwind of reactions to Taylor and Travis’ big news, to deeper reflections on our society’s fascination with love, connection, and marriage.Together they unpack what makes certain love stories so compelling, how celebrity relationships shape our expectations, and why the desire for partnership runs so deep. With insights from Victoria’s counseling practice and a look at biblical perspectives on love and repair, the episode blends laughter, personal stories, and thoughtful commentary. Whether you’re a Swiftie, a Chiefs fan, or someone simply curious about why love stories matter, this episode invites you to consider what our attraction to romance reveals about our deepest longings—and how faith intersects with modern relationships.BioVictoria Sawyer, LPC, provides a compassionate and client-centered approach to therapy for individuals and families in the Olathe and Kansas City area. With a strong belief in the power of connection and understanding, Victoria works with clients facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, and relationship challenges. She tailors her approach to meet the unique needs and strengths of each person, creating a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment.Victoria is skilled in a range of evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness strategies, and trauma-informed care. She is passionate about helping clients of all ages thrive, restore hope, and foster meaningful change in their lives. 3 Main TakeawaysOur Fascination with Celebrity Love Stories Reflects Deeper LongingsThe episode kicks off discussing the engagement of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, exploring why public romances captivate so many people. The hosts and guest reflect on how these high-profile relationships tap into universal human desires for love, connection, and celebration. The conversation highlights that our obsession with celebrity couples often points to our own hope for meaningful, lasting relationships.Healthy Relationships Require Intentional Communication and RepairVictoria Sawyer, a licensed professional counselor, shares insights from her practice with couples—emphasizing the importance of communication, feeling seen and heard, and especially the process of repairing after conflict. She points out that, whether it’s in celebrity relationships or our own, real connection comes from being intentional, learning from mistakes, and prioritizing repair over perfection. Approaches like the Gottman Method’s "attunement" are discussed as practical tools.Christian Faith Offers a Distinct Lens on Love and RomanceThroughout the episode, the conversation weaves in biblical perspectives on love, noting that our desire for deep relationships is rooted in being made in the image of a loving God. Victoria discusses how biblical principles—like responding gently in conflict, or the ultimate story of God’s covenant love—can help shape healthier relationships. The hosts also note that human love stories often mirror the larger story of God’s pursuit of relationship with us.Resources https://www.gottman.com/about/the-gottman-method/Timestamps:00:00 Celebrity Engagement: Reactions & Reflections06:29 Supportive Relationship's Public Evolution10:13 Celebrating Marriage's Goodness11:57 "Universal Fascination with Romantic Love"14:33 Enhancing Partner Communication Skills19:03 "Creating Secure Attachments"22:01 Soft Answers, Thoughtful Responses24:13 Integrative Christian Therapy Insights28:42 Desire for Fairy Tale Endings33:20 Pinspiration and Self-Comparison Struggles36:20 Lighthearted Wisdom: Balance and Enjoyment38:12 Hostage Negotiation FascinationHashtags#LoveAndRomance #CelebrityCulture #TaylorAndTravis #ChristianCounseling #ScripturalPerspective #RelationshipAdvice #AttachmentTheory #MarriageMatters #HealthyConnections #theFormedLifePodcast

Introduction:Welcome to theFormed.life! In this heartfelt episode, our hosts Nathan Miller and Gabe Coyle are joined by Dela Beebe, Chief Operating Officer at Christ Community, for the final conversation in our special three-part series exploring the lead senior pastor process and position at Christ Community.Drawing from over 15 years of shared history, the trio takes a walk down memory lane, reminiscing about the formative moments that have shaped their friendships, their callings, and the church itself. From humble beginnings in church planting and volunteer days, to the joys and challenges of executive leadership, Nathan, Dela, and Gabe share stories of camaraderie, authenticity, and faithfulness.Together, they reflect on the core values that define Christ Community—especially the commitment to "live before an audience of one" and remain focused on mission rather than chasing trends. As they navigate both mountaintop moments and gut-wrenching challenges, listeners are given a candid glimpse into the deep respect and trust that has developed among these leaders.Tune in for an inspiring conversation about leadership transitions, teamwork, and the hope that anchors them as they step boldly into the church’s future, united in their purpose and love for Jesus. 3 Main Takeaways:Deep Roots and Relationships at Christ CommunityThe conversation reflects on the long-standing relationships between the hosts and guest, highlighting how their shared history at Christ Community has formed a strong foundation of trust, camaraderie, and mutual respect. Their memories reveal a journey of growing together through early campus launches, personal milestones, and professional development.Commitment to Mission Over FadsA major theme is how Christ Community has intentionally avoided chasing church trends or "fads." Instead, they've remained committed to their core mission—living "before an audience of one" (God). This steady focus has allowed the church to respond wisely to new opportunities and challenges, ensuring lasting impact rather than temporary popularity.The Beauty of Unified Leadership and Shared MissionThe team expresses gratitude for a leadership culture where everyone is "rowing in the same direction." Even in challenging seasons, there's a clear sense of unity and commitment to Jesus and the church's mission. The mutual support through both high and low moments is highlighted as a source of hope and encouragement for the future.Timestamps:00:00 Final Podcast on Pastor Role03:26 "Leadership Transition in Church Campuses"07:59 Christ Community's Consistent Mission Focus09:47 "Teamwork's Beauty and Hope"Keywords:Christ Community, lead senior pastor process, executive leadership team, church history, church planting, Olathe campus, staff roles, residency program, campus pastors, Brookside campus, Downtown campus, Shawnee campus, church transitions, leadership team, audience of one, mission-driven church, church fads, church culture, volunteer service, team collaboration, church memory sharing, authentic leadership, church growth, congregation development, church credit card, staff relationships, humility in leadership, leadership challenges, teamwork, church faithfulnessHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #ChurchHistory #FaithfulCommunity #MinistryLife #TeamworkInChrist #AuthenticLeadership #MissionFocused #SharedMemories #ChristianHope #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to a special edition of theFormed.life podcast! In this episode, host Bill Gorman is joined by longtime colleague Tom Nelson and Gabe Coyle, who is currently the candidate for the next lead senior pastor of Christ Community. This conversation is part of a three-part series exploring the church’s pastoral succession process.Today, we take a deep dive into Gabe’s personal journey—starting with his upbringing in a loving, church-engaged family, his early calling to pastoral ministry, and the pivotal moments that shaped his passion to serve God's purposes. Gabe shares stories from his formative years, including what it was like growing up in a single-parent household, discovering his gifts in teaching and leading, and the key mentors who encouraged him along the way. Bill and Tom recall their earliest experiences of working with Gabe, highlighting both his character and the quirky stories—like Tom shedding blood to help Gabe move a couch!We also get a glimpse into Gabe’s family life, his marriage to Allie (involving quite the church gardener-meets-secretary love story), and life with their three vibrant children in Kansas City’s Longfellow neighborhood. Plus, there’s a revisit of the legendary couch—a symbol of lasting friendships and community.Whether you’re a member of Christ Community or curious about the heart behind pastoral leadership transitions, this episode offers warmth, authenticity, and plenty of laughter along the way. Join us as we get to know Gabe Coyle, his story, and the vision he brings for the future. 3 Main Takeaways:- Gabe Coyle’s Journey to Pastoral MinistryGabe shares his personal story of growing up in a loving but challenging single-parent home, his early engagement with church, and how the love and support he received from his church community was instrumental in his faith journey. Encouraged by pastors and mentors, he sensed a calling to pastoral ministry during his high school years, particularly through experiences in leadership roles and teaching God’s word.- The Power of Mentorship and CommunityBoth Gabe and Tom highlight the significant impact that mentors and community have had in forming their faith and leadership. Gabe speaks specifically about pastors who made time for him despite busy schedules and saw potential in him, shaping his calling and development. The story reinforces the importance of being seen, supported, and called into deeper service by others in the faith community.- Embracing the Whole Mission of GodGabe discusses how a shift in understanding the integration of faith and work (especially after hearing Tom Nelson speak) changed his perspective. He realized that work isn’t just a means of evangelism or supporting the “real” ministry, but a vital part of God’s mission. This perspective influenced his decision to join Christ Community and participate in their residency program, seeing it as a missing piece in his ministry formation.Timestamps:00:00 "Exploring Pastoral Succession Process"05:14 High School Chaplaincy Experience09:58 Church Campus Romance Begins12:57 Couch Pickup IncidentKeywords:pastoral succession, Christ Community Church, Gabe Coyle, Bill Gorman, Tom Nelson, pastoral residency, church leadership, elder chairman, executive leadership team, calling to ministry, vocational calling, church community, faith and work, pastoral mentorship, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, Cedarville University, church upbringing, single parent family, church support, youth ministry, worship leader, chaplain experience, sermon teaching, mentorship, family life, Longfellow neighborhood, community involvement, Kansas City, church culture, church staff relationships, career discernmentHashtags:#PastoralSuccession #ChurchLeadership #CallingToMinistry #ChristianCommunity #FaithJourney #MentorshipMatters #FamilyFaith #SpiritualFormation #GospelLegacy #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to a special edition of theFormed.life podcast from Christ Community! In this episode, host Paul Brandes sits down with Tom Nelson, the founding and current lead senior pastor, and Kevin Rockman, current elder chair and chair of the succession task force, for an honest and insightful conversation about the church’s upcoming leadership transition.With over 37 years of dedicated service, Tom shares how intentional succession planning has always been part of the church’s DNA—from developing a mission-centered leadership culture to launching a pastoral residency program designed to train both internal and external leaders. Kevin takes us behind the scenes of the recent, focused succession process, explaining how the task force was formed, how they considered both internal and external candidates, and why they ultimately felt confident in recommending Gabe as the next lead senior pastor.You’ll hear about the values and thoughtfulness guiding every step—from bylaws refreshment to financial health and doctrinal integrity—ensuring the church continues forward grounded in its core mission. Join us as we explore the heart, history, and hope steering Christ Community into its next chapter, and get an insider’s look at the team, process, and vision shaping the future of leadership within the church. 3 Main Takeaways:Intentional, Long-Term Succession PlanningSuccession has been a deliberate part of Christ Community’s leadership culture for many years. Tom Nelson, the founding and current lead senior pastor, emphasized that from the beginning, the church has focused on building leaders and preparing for future transitions. The pastoral residency program was highlighted as a key piece of this strategy—developing a pipeline not only for Christ Community, but for the broader church landscape.Thorough and Prayerful ProcessThe succession process was described as thorough, thoughtful, and deeply prayerful. Kevin Rockman, elder chair and head of the succession task force, shared details about assembling a diverse team, consulting internal and external advisors, and considering both internal and external candidates. Key organizational updates, including bylaws and financial health, were made to ensure a stable foundation for the transition. Ultimately, after much discernment and input, the task force and elders unanimously recommended Gabe as the next lead senior pastor.Confidence in Leadership Continuity and the Next GenerationAll speakers expressed deep gratitude and confidence in the continuity of leadership. The selection of Gabe Cole—who embodies the church’s DNA, mission, and vision—was enthusiastically affirmed. There was a strong sense of excitement for the future, both for Gabe’s unique gifts (such as his commitment to spiritual formation and leadership development) and the broader senior team. The episode ends with hopeful anticipation for what God will do through the next generation of leaders.Timestamps:00:00 Pastoral Succession Series Launch05:56 Leadership Transition Reflection08:59 Elder Team Succession Planning12:32 Multi-Site Church Leadership Search15:00 2025 Succession Plan Announcement17:40 Teamwork Over Individual Roles21:54 "Leadership Transition in Faith Community"24:12 "Succession and Leadership Continuity"Keywords:lead pastor succession, church leadership transition, Christ Community Church, pastoral residency program, elder board, succession planning, leadership development, organizational integrity, mission statement, church bylaws, financial sustainability, debt free church, EFCA (Evangelical Free Church of America), church doctrine, position papers, gender and church leadership, sexuality and marriage, leadership culture, biblical leadership, team leadership, internal candidates, external candidates, multi-site church, campus pastors, executive leadership team, Gabe Cole, leadership selection process, spiritual formation, staff continuity, future leadership visionHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #ChurchSuccession #SpiritualFormation #ChristCommunityChurch #GospelLeadership #TeamMinistry #BiblicalIntegrity #PastoralResidency #FaithfulStewardship #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc

Introduction:Welcome to theFormed.life podcast! In this special episode, we share a significant announcement in the life of Christ Community Church. After 37 years of faithful service, founding pastor Tom Nelson is preparing to pass the baton to a new generation of leadership. Joined by Andy Root and Gabe Coyle, the episode celebrates Gabe’s unanimous recommendation by the Elder Board to become the next lead senior pastor. With reflections on the church’s legacy, the importance of spiritual formation, and a vision for building deeper people—not just a bigger church—this conversation invites you into a pivotal moment of transition and hope for the future. Whether you’ve been part of Christ Community for years or are just tuning in, you’ll hear firsthand from those at the heart of this inspiring next chapter. 3 Main Takeaways:Leadership Transition Announcement: Tom Nelson, the founding pastor, announces that he will be passing the baton to a new generation of leadership at Christ Community Church. After 37 years of dedicated service, he shares the news that the Elder Board has unanimously recommended Gabe Coyle to be the next lead senior pastor.Strong Endorsement for Gabe Coyle: Both Tom Nelson and Andy Root express their excitement about Gabe Coyle stepping into this new role. Gabe has been part of the church for over a decade and already serves at the downtown campus, giving him deep familiarity with the church’s mission and culture. The continuity provided by his leadership, along with the senior team and campus pastors, is highlighted as key for the church's ongoing mission.Focus on Spiritual Formation: There’s a strong emphasis that the role of lead senior pastor at Christ Community is about much more than growing the size of the church; it’s about nurturing spiritual depth and formation—building “deeper people.” Tom Nelson specifically underscores that a pastor's primary calling is to be a “gardener of the soul,” shaping the spiritual health of both the congregation and themselves.Overall, this episode marks an exciting and hopeful transition period for the church, centered on faithfulness, legacy, and a renewed commitment to its core mission.Resources mentioned in this episode:A Long Obedience in the Same Direction - Eugene PetersonKeywords:Christ Community Church, Kansas City, pastoral transition, lead senior pastor, Gabe Coyle, Tom Nelson, Elder Board, succession, church leadership, spiritual formation, church mission, continuity, campus pastors, downtown campus, church family, legacy, stewardship, Christian leadership, values, mission, sound doctrine, long obedience, Eugene Peterson, spiritual growth, deeper people, church team, prayerful work, church era, voting, transition date, new generationHashtags:#LeadershipTransition #SpiritualFormation #ChurchLegacy #FaithfulLeadership #GabeCoyle #TomNelson #ChurchFamily #ChristCommunity #PastoralSuccession #theFormedLifePodcast~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~WEB: https://cckc.church/CONNECT: https://ccefc.ccbchurch.com/goto/forms/1304/responses/newIG: https://www.instagram.com/christcommunitykc/FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/christcommunitykc