Coffee Connect: Recent Episodes
Project Zion Podcast
Grab a cup of coffee and settle in for a good listen with retired apostle, Linda Booth. One of the first two female apostles ordained in Community of Christ, her stories of life and ministry are sure to inspire. The perfect podcast when you need a lift. Brightens your day with hope and little reminders of God’s gentle loving presence in our world.
A new year has begun, and the pressure is on, whether you fall prey to it or not, to make some new year resolutions. Many will do it. Some will succeed. Some know better than to even try. In this short episode of Coffee Connect, host, Blake Smith, reminds us to focus on the small...Source
Life can get messy, even when we have the best of intentions. The great news is that there’s no safer place to be “messy” than in sacred community ... you know, that special kind of community that the church is supposed to be for one another. Sometimes, however, we get so focused on achieving perfection (the destination) that we miss the beauty hidden below the mess (the journey). We need others ... companions on the journey ... to help us see the beauty that lies within. In this episode of Coffee Connect, join Blake Smith for a reflection on the importance of the journey as well as the people who journey with us.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Are you a “prodigal?” Have you ever thought you knew a better way for your life only to find out that you had it pretty good? At least you knew you were loved and welcomed. Perhaps it is true that “the grass is NOT always greener...” In this episode of Coffee Connect, Host and former apostle, Linda Booth is back with a couple of prodigal stories, and you might be surprised to find that one of the stories is her story. It just goes to show you that it can happen to anyone. But, the good news is that there is sufficient grace to cover any lapses in judgment we might have.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
In this episode of Coffee Connect, Linda Booth shares a personal experience where a scripture story about Mary Magdalene's journey to the tomb on Easter morning came alive for her during the preparation of an Easter sermon. Join Linda as she reflects on the transformative power of scripture and personal experiences, emphasizing the profound impact of dwelling in God's Word.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Do you have it? Sure you do. Even if you have to dig deep to find it, you’ve got that “thing.” And you’re not alone. As children of God created in the image of God we all have that “thing.” That something special that creates an hospitable environment where people feel like they matter … that they are of worth. Join host Blake Smith for a quick reminder of the importance of making everyone feel welcome. It may be one of the only effective ways to get beyond the things that seek to divide us.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Grab a cup of coffee (or hot tea) and settle down to hear one of Linda Booth’s amazing stories of healing, restoration, and the power of community. In this episode, you’ll hear Colinda’s story and testimony of what happens when we take time to notice those around us who are hurting and alone. You’ll find from this story that you’re never too young (or old) to be the answer to someone’s need.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Advent is a time of anticipation and expectation. It is a time of waiting. But who likes waiting? What is the use of waiting for something when you already know how things will turn out. It’s like watching the end of a movie first. The reality is that there is so little in life that many of us have to wait for anymore. But, there are still millions in our world who wait every day … for everything from love and acceptance to food and clean water. Join host Blake Smith for a reflection on waiting. It may require an exercise in imagination, but who knows what surprises may await.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
We all have times in our lives when we could use a “God Moment.” In this episode of Coffee Connect, retired Apostle, Linda Booth, shares Elizabeth’s story of grief and desperation and how a God moment made all the difference in the lives of her and her two boys. Here, you’ll see what unconditional commitment to discipleship and ministry can do in the lives of others. And, you’ll find inspiration and encouragement for living out your own calling to make a difference in our world.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
The Apostle Paul asks the question in relation to the love of God, but it’s time for us to ask the question in relation to our relationships with God, with each other and with all of creation. Better yet, perhaps we could ask the question, “What can bring us together?” In this episode of Coffee Connect, host Blake Smith reflects on the importance of relationships and connections. Our hearts should break at the knowledge that there are those who have been separated for any reason, and we should be challenged to initiate reconciliation and healing when we have been “the reason.”Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Sometimes it feels like being a disciple can create more questions than answers … especially when you’re living out your faith in the midst of other disciples struggling with similar issues but coming to very different conclusions. Questions are good though. It is in facing tough questions that our faith is strengthened and our communities are shaped. Join host Blake Smith in this episode of Coffee Connect as he lifts up just a few of the tough questions, the answers to which are necessary for the building of the Peaceable Kingdom.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Too many churches are missing the boisterous laughter, Joyful awe, and sometimes disruptive behavior of children. As congregations age, there is little worry of stains on the carpet, marks on the walls, or inappropriate behavior during the often solemn act of worship. Whatever happened to “of such is the kingdom of God?” The great news is that the kids are still there. It’s just that “there” might not be in our pews. Instead, they are in our neighborhoods and when we’re willing to listen to God and pay attention to where God is already at work great things can happen. Join host Linda Booth, for a tale of three congregations, and see what can happen when we make space for God’s disruptions.
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Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!
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Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Forever seems like a long time when talking about how long someone will remember the mistakes that you made. Camera phones and social media have made memories even longer than before. But what happens if we use the memories of our mistakes and the mistakes of others to navigate the future... a future where reconciliation and forgiveness is a possibility? Join host Blake Smith for a thoughtful reflection on the importance of reconciliation … on both sides of every mistake.
All scriptural references for this episode are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE).
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Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Can one be both a Christian and a patriot at the same time? For some in the US, it is a resounding yes, while for those who live out their Christian discipleship in a global faith community like Community of Christ, the answer is much more nuanced. In this brief episode of Coffee Connect, especially written in recognition of the United States’ Independence Day observance, host Blake Smith reminds us that although the United States is “one nation, under God,” it is not the only nation under God. He suggests that it is appropriate to love your nation, without loving all of the skeletons in its closet, as long as love of God remains one’s priority. God doesn’t play favorites.
This reflection is taken from Blake’s weekly blog, “From the Desk of...,” which posts every Thursday (with a few exceptions), and can be found at: https://chicagomissioncenter.org/ministry/news/from-the-desk-of/ Download Transcript
Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Arthur Brooke wrote about it. William Shakespeare brought it to stage. In 1957 it came to stage again under another name. It’s a tale as old as time, and we continue to hear versions of it in our daily news. But what’s at the heart of it? Join host Blake Smith for a brief yet thought-provoking episode of Coffee Connect in which he looks at the story within the story.
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Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Life might be better if we could just be handed “truth” on a proverbial silver platter. It would probably be easier if everything we thought we knew was all we needed to know. But, that’s not the way it works in a global, diverse community like the one we live in. Join host Blake Smith for this Coffee Connect episode in which he shares some brief reflections on the importance of understanding “truth” from more than our own perspective.Download TranscriptIntro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
You can run from God, but you can’t hide! When the people of God come together after, and in the midst of, spiritual preparation, there is no telling what God might do. World Conference in Community of Christ is a perfect example. It is both a unique and an amazing experience. Chances are, if you’ve been to World Conference, you know that to be true. Listen in as Retired Apostle and storyteller, Linda Booth, shares a few of her transformational moments in the World Conference setting.
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Host and master storyteller, Linda Booth, is back with another episode of Coffee Connect, and a call to action. Listen in as she tells stories of modern-day “Good Samaritans,” and how their simple acts were mighty deeds in the eyes of those who were the recipients of their kindness and generosity.
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Grab a cup of your favorite warm beverage and get cozy as Linda Booth shares holiday stories just in time for your Christmas weekend!
Host: Linda Booth
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Stories heal, bring understanding, and connect humanity. Today, Linda Booth shares three short stories from her time as an apostle in Community of Christ.
Host: Linda Booth
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Grab your favorite brew and listen to Project Zion's resident storyteller, Linda Booth, share tales from the heart.
Host: Linda Booth
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In the swarm of uncertainty during the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic, Linda Booth decided she couldn't simply wait for miracles, but needed to take an active role in creating them by connecting safely with those around her.
Host: Linda Booth
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Finding God in the midst of storms and heartbreak is one of life's biggest challenges. Today, Linda Booth shares a deeply personal story about one of her family's greatest storms and how she was able to find grace, love, and forgiveness in the midst of it.
Host: Linda Booth
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The ordination of women was a controversial move in Community of Christ and did not come without broken relationships. Today on the podcast, Linda Booth shares a story of an unusual friendship between herself as an ordained apostle and leaders of Restoration congregations. These friendships led to the Restoration Reconciliation Committee and for Linda, they continue to be a reminder that reconciliation is possible in a divided world.
Host: Linda Booth
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Retired Apostle Linda Booth shares three stories that answer the question Jesus asked in Luke chapter 10, "Who is my neighbor?"
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Host: Linda Booth
On this Christmas Eve episode of Coffee Connect, Linda Booth shares two stories of welcoming the Christ child. Merry Christmas from the Project Zion team!
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Host: Linda Booth
Linda Booth shares a personal Easter story of when the promise of resurrection was made real.
Host: Linda Booth
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Sometimes we think that we can only find or praise God after our troubles are sorted out, but today Linda Booth shares a few stories that challenge us to look for God while we're praying for our miracle.
Host: Linda Booth
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Merry Christmas from Project Zion Podcast. Grab your favorite hot drink and settle in to hear a Christmas story from Linda Booth.
It is Linda's prayer that "during this holy season, you find the Christ child, that you intentionally seek those who need the ministry that you can give, and that you feel and live the words "In as much as you have done it unto one of the least of these my children, you have done it unto me."
Merry Christmas!
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There's no doubt that the world is going through a lot right now. How would our perspective shift if we were able to slow down and notice God in the every day mess of life? Retired Apostle, Linda Booth, shares a few stories with us today about finding God in the midst of the mess.
Host: Linda Booth
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Recognizing God in the midst of struggle can be difficult, but if we look we can see that God is with us through it all. Today Linda Booth shares a few stories of how she has learned the lesson that God is present through troubling times.
Host: Linda Booth
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What would happen if we paid closer attention to where God was showing up in our everyday? Our Coffee Connect series features stories of life and ministry from retired apostle, Linda Booth. So grab your favorite cup of brew and settle in as she shares three stories of God showing up in the world today.
Host: Linda Booth
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