Michigan Ministry Network L3 Podcast : Recent Episodes
Michigan Ministry Network
The L3 Podcast is a resource to help equip our pastors for the fullness of ministry and the hurdles that come with it. We hope this podcast will be a good tool for you to use in your personal life as well as your ministries. New episodes will be released every Monday morning at 7am!
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
We're back with Part 2 of our conversation on discipleship with Pastor Holly Davis. Picking up where they left off, Pastors Aaron and Holly dive into the practical application of discipleship, starting with the foundational power of Scripture. Holly shares a raw and powerful testimony of facing intense spiritual warfare and how she learned to fight back with the living and active Word of God. How do we move our congregations from simply hearing a sermon on Sunday to feasting on the Word all week long? This conversation is packed with practical ideas for pastors on how to creatively engage their people in Scripture, the importance of celebrating small steps of progress, and why true discipleship often happens in the everyday moments of "doing life" together. This is a deeply encouraging episode for any leader passionate about making disciples who are resilient and rooted in the Word.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at mmn.ag.
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, in Part 1 of a special two-part episode, we're joined by Holly Davis, the Student Discipleship Director from the Assemblies of God national office. Pastor Holly shares her powerful journey as a woman called to ministry at a time when there were few female role models, offering incredible encouragement and a passionate plea for leaders to pursue their credentials. Pastors Aaron and Holly lay a powerful foundation for discipleship, discussing how it's so much more than a class—it's about digging deep spiritual roots and "doing life" with people. They explore why for the next generation, who you are is the platform for what you know, setting the stage for a deeper dive into practical discipleship in Part 2.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at mmn.ag.
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're joined by Nathan Hlavin, Family Life Pastor at Bridgewood Church, to discuss the vital and growing focus of Family Ministry. In a culture where the family unit is breaking down, how can the church effectively minister to the whole family, not just its individual members? Pastor Nathan unpacks a powerful, principle-based approach to family ministry that shifts the primary place of spiritual development back into the home. This is a crucial conversation for any leader looking to build a strategy that strengthens marriages, empowers parents, and creates healthy homes for generations to come.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at mmn.ag.
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're joined by Pastor Mike Way from Center Point Assembly of God in Charlevoix for a powerful conversation about weathering the storms of ministry. What happens when ministry hurts, especially when the conflict comes from within your own church and family? Pastor Mike Way shares his powerful testimony of navigating a deeply painful storm in his own congregation and how he not only survived but was able to lead the church to a place of health and unity. Pastors Aaron and Mike discuss the critical importance of staying connected, standing firm on biblical truth, and refusing to isolate yourself in the battle. This is a must-listen for any leader in a difficult season, filled with honest wisdom and profound encouragement that you are not alone and this season will pass.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at mmn.ag.
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're joined by a great friend and Next Gen Pastor at Bridgewood Church, Dallas Cogle, to talk about a subject critical to every leader's well-being: why relationships matter. With statistics showing that over 60% of pastors often feel lonely, how do we break the cycle of isolation? Dallas Cogle dives into the vital importance of friendship, explaining that relationships are the very essence of how God created us. Why do so many leaders struggle to build deep, authentic friendships? Pastors Aaron and Dallas discuss the need to "come off the platform"—not just physically, but emotionally—to cultivate private relationships for the health of our own souls. They explore the barriers that keep us from connecting and share practical ways to be intentional about finding friends, getting outside the ministry bubble, and building the support system needed for a lifetime of healthy ministry.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're sitting down with our newly elected Ethnic Diversity Presbyter, Pastor Steve Amaro, for a crucial conversation on diversity in the local church. How do we move beyond simply having different ethnicities in our pews to truly embracing the diverse cultures God brings to our congregations? Pastor Steve Amaro unpacks this important topic, emphasizing the difference between acknowledging skin color and truly welcoming culture. Using a powerful analogy of adding rich "seasoning" to a meal, he explains how diversity brings a fuller flavor of the Kingdom to our churches and communities. What are the practical steps pastors can take to make every individual feel seen, heard, and valued without resorting to "tokenism"? Pastors Aaron and Steve provide an insightful and practical guide for any leader passionate about building a church that truly reflects the heart of God and the community they serve.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're excited to introduce the Worship and Creative Arts Ministry Director for the Michigan Ministry Network, Kelly Warner. How do we lead our congregations into a genuine connection with God? Pastor Kelly joins the podcast to share her heart and wisdom on leading worship with "anointed excellence." What does a healthy partnership between a lead pastor and a worship leader look like? How do we balance Spirit-led spontaneity with diligent preparation to create a seamless and powerful worship experience? Pastors Aaron and Kelly discuss the importance of a worship leader’s personal walk, practical tips for building a confident team (no matter the size), and how to keep the focus simple and centered on the presence of Jesus. This is a great episode for lead pastors, worship leaders, and anyone serving on a creative arts team.
To contact Pastor Kelly, you can reach out at kelly@mygracevalley.com
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we're joined by Donovan Locke, the Youth Discipleship Director for the Michigan Next Gen team, to talk all things student discipleship. With so many students walking away from their faith after high school, how can we create a discipleship culture that lasts a lifetime? Donovan Locke dives into the practical challenges and strategies for discipling youth today. Are we answering the questions this generation is actually asking? Are we prioritizing authenticity over entertainment? Pastors Aaron and Donovan discuss the shift away from flashy programs toward a genuine pursuit of truth and the supernatural. They also unpack the new resources and initiatives being launched by the Next Gen team to equip and support youth pastors, and even help churches start a student ministry from scratch. This is a vital conversation for any leader who wants to invest in the next generation and understands that sometimes, the most powerful form of discipleship is simply being in the room.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have a special episode with our LEAD Director for the Michigan Ministry Network, Pastor Chad Deerman. As part of the network's vision to help churches thrive, Pastor Chad joins the podcast to discuss his role and answer a crucial question: What does a thriving church actually look like? Moving beyond just numbers, Pastor Chad unpacks three key indicators of church health: tangible spiritual activity, strong relational unity, and meaningful community impact. How can pastors know if their church is truly healthy? What practical steps can any leader take to begin moving their congregation from surviving to thriving? Pastors Aaron and Chad discuss practical principles like clarifying your vision, assessing your ministries, and focusing outward to make a difference. This is a great conversation for any pastor looking for encouragement and a clear path toward greater church health.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have the privilege of sitting down with legendary pastor and missionary Bob Roberts to discuss the crucial and timely subject of ministerial ethics and the purity of the minister. In a world where the failures of leaders are often on public display, how do we, as ministers, guard our hearts and finish well? Pastor Bob Roberts offers decades of wisdom on this vital topic, explaining that moral failure is often a slow drift that happens when we allow our spiritual "deep wells" to be filled with the dirt of performance and neglect. Is it possible to master the 'work' of ministry while losing our connection to the Lord? How do we avoid confusing God's patience with His approval of our lives? Pastors Aaron and Bob discuss the necessity of accountability, redefining success as spiritual integrity, and the courage to look into the honest mirror of God's Word. This is an essential message on protecting the foundation of our lives and ministry.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
In Part 2 of our conversation, we're back with Trent Roberts, President of Northpoint College, to tackle the pervasive and challenging topic of Moralistic Therapeutic Deism (MTD). What is the actual religion of many in our churches today? Pastor Aaron and Trent dive deep into MTD, a belief system that reduces Christianity to being a good person and using God for personal happiness, all while keeping Him at a safe distance. They explore how this "prosperity gospel of self" impacts everything from our testimonies to our preaching, creating a faith that is afraid of suffering and avoids the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. This is a vital discussion for leaders seeking to understand the cultural water we're all swimming in and how to call people back to an authentic, costly, and powerful Christ-centered faith that the next generation is hungry for.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, in Part 1 of a two-part conversation, we have Trent Roberts, President of Northpoint College, joining us to discuss the critical topics of biblical literacy and the importance of education in ministry today. In a culture with unprecedented access to information, why does it seem like biblical literacy is at an all-time low? How can we, as leaders, cultivate a deeper understanding of Scripture in our congregations? Pastors Aaron and Trent tackle the challenges of ministering to a generation that often knows more about Christian culture than the biblical narratives themselves. They discuss the need to move beyond surface-level teaching, create space for questions, and embrace the growth that comes from wrestling with the whole counsel of God. They also dive into the vital role of education—both formal and lifelong—in equipping ministers with the skill sets and knowledge needed for a lifetime of effective, resilient ministry.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we are flipping the script and hearing "Perspectives from the Pew" with special guest Chuck Cova, a long-time lay leader with a heart for pastors and the local church. What do the people we lead really see, and what do they want us to know? In this unique and insightful episode, Chuck Cova shares his journey as a lifelong church member and lay leader, offering profound encouragement to pastors. He shares personal stories of how pastors impacted his life—not just from the pulpit, but through personal moments of grace, mentorship, and friendship. Pastor Aaron and Chuck discuss the importance of self-care, keeping priorities in order, and building healthy relational circles. This is a must-listen for every ministry leader, filled with affirming truths that will remind you that you are seen, valued, and that your personal walk and well-being matter deeply to the people you serve.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have missionary and pastor John Baker, who shares a powerful and vulnerable testimony on how to continue in ministry while managing incredibly difficult seasons in your personal life. Over the last few years, Pastor John Baker has navigated a series of immense challenges. How do you keep going when life and ministry hurt? What lessons can be found in the midst of hardship? Pastors Aaron and John discuss the importance of paying attention to what God is doing even in the darkest moments, the power of the "ministry of presence," and the truth that God is still at work in and through you. This is a crucial conversation for any leader facing their own trials, offering profound encouragement to not give up and to see God's faithfulness through it all.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Jeff Bonzelaar, Director of Life Challenge for Detroit and Flint, sharing about the life-transforming work of this vital ministry that serves individuals struggling with addiction. With 37 years of experience, Jeff Bonzelaar provides a powerful look into the heart of Life Challenge, a residential discipleship program dedicated to bringing hope, help, and healing. What does it take to minister on the front lines of addiction? How does Life Challenge approach the complex bio-psycho-social and spiritual aspects of recovery? Pastors Aaron and Jeff discuss the incredible stories of transformation, the ministry's holistic approach to care and the practical ways local churches can partner through prayer, awareness, and support. Discover how your church can connect with this "ER of the local church" and be part of changing lives and lineages.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have a special dual-guest episode with Nate Elarton, Lead Pastor of Compelled Church, and Rick Flood, Executive Pastor at Compelled Church, discussing the vital keys for lead and staff pastors to build a thriving, long-term working relationship. Pastors Nate and Rick share their journey and the principles that have fostered a strong and effective partnership. What does it take for a lead pastor to create an environment where staff feel valued, empowered, and want to stay? How can staff pastors maintain a healthy perspective and contribute to a unified team, even through disagreements? Pastors Aaron, Nate, and Rick dive into the importance of relational leadership, authenticity, mutual trust, advocating for your team, and taking personal responsibility.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Rick Ross, General Treasurer of the Assemblies of God, sharing wisdom and encouragement for pastors and ministry leaders. In a candid conversation, Pastor Rick addresses the challenges many leaders face today, from loneliness in ministry to the pressures of perfectionism. How do we build vital relationships and find mentors? Do we really need every Sunday to be the "best ever"? Pastors Aaron and Rick discuss the importance of realizing you're not alone, the freedom in letting go of the need to overachieve, and the joy found in slowing down to value people and be present with family. Pastor Rick also shares insights on current trends, including a renewed focus on the next generation, a move of the Spirit stirring believers beyond settling, and recapturing the awe of God to fuel a passion for the lost.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Pastor Tim Alley, lead pastor of Baldwin Assembly of God, talking with us about influencing and pastoring your entire community. What does it mean to pastor beyond the four walls of the church? How can we cultivate a heart for the community God has placed us in, especially when facing challenges like poverty mindsets or fear within our own congregations? Pastor Tim discusses the importance of choosing to love the people God loves, seeing them as Jesus does, and bringing hope to the hopeless. Pastors Aaron and Tim talk about the vital role of the pastor in leading the charge for outreach and how stepping out in faith, even when it's difficult, allows God to show up in powerful ways.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Brian Pruitt, family life pastor at Grace Valley Church and motivational speaker and trainer, talking with us about good leadership. John Maxwell says "Leadership is influence". Who are you influencing on a daily basis? What happens when people don't like the way you lead? People love change until you change something they love. Sometimes when trying to lead, we push too hard and to move too fast and we end up damaging ourselves and the people around us. Pastors Aaron and Brian share their wisdom and experience on how to make sure everyone is healthy when leading a team and a congregation.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Raymond Marshall, Michigan Student Ministries Director, sharing with us on how to integrate Speed the Light and BGMC into your church culture. STL and BGMC both have tremendous merits not just in the resources we're able to provide to missionaries around the world, but also to instill the heart of generosity and selflessness into your kids and students. If you're looking to start giving towards STL or BGMC and need some help, please reach out to Pastor Raymond at rmarshall@aogmi.org and make sure to follow us at agmsm.org for all the resources and playbooks coming out.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Otis Buchan, former director of affiliated churches and camps, sharing with us today on his message "Stewarding Memories". Memories can be good or bad, but we can choose to steward those memories well. Not every memory needs to stay, and not all memories in bad situations need to go. It's about filtering and finding what God had done throughout those situations and what He wants you to carry with you. This episode contains a lot of deep stories from Pastor Otis and we are so thankful to him for coming on the podcast and sharing with us.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Eric Klein-Wassink, associate pastor at Grand Rapids First & community engagement director for GoServe sharing with us on what Go Serve is all about and how it can help your church serve your community. GoServe's mission is to resource the local church to expand its reach throughout its communities by freely providing food, home goods, clothing, and other necessities. GoServe is an amazing program for churches of all sizes. Pastors Aaron and Eric talk about what the program is geared towards and how to get involved.
For mor information on GoServe, you can find them online at goserve.org or call at 616.322.3320
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Larry Parker, senior pastor at Life Church sharing with us on how to lead a mostly volunteer staff to reach your community. What is it like only having staff members in the office only a few hours a week? How do you properly manage, set realistic expectations, and lead a team you don't get to see that often? How do you thank and take care of your team to best honor them for following you? This has been an eye opening conversation on what it's like leading a staff that you fully trust, but don't often see them all at the same time.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Cal Garcia, lead pastor or Auburn Hills Christian Center sharing with us on how to choose the right staff. Staff pastors are vital for the growth of the church. How do we know we're hiring the right one for our congregations and communities? Pastor Cal has seen tremendous longevity when hiring and retaining his staff members. He teaches us what to be on the lookout for and how to listen in to Holy Spirit (sometimes speaking through others) before bringing them onto the team.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Philip Krist, lead pastor of Lakeside Assembly of God talking about building buildings with wisdom. When God blesses us with vision and provision, we're responsible for stewarding his resources well. How do we know what's best when building or expanding a church building? Is there a better time to build than others? How do you build/entrust teams so they can catch the vision and assist with the dream? If you're thinking about expanding, moving, or building a church, pastor Philip has been a tremendous fount of wisdom and we encourage you to reach out for questions.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Jeff Krist, lead pastor of Gateway Assembly in Imlay City, sharing his wisdom with us on how to grow a church in a rural community. Pastor Jeff shares the challenges and unique opportunities he's had to face when it comes to building a church in a rural area. We are all called to reach the lost but God calls us to different areas which means we have to "do church" differently. What works in a big city won't always work in a rural area. We're thankful for pastor Jeff taking the time to teach us this morning!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have part 2 of conversations with Pastor Aaron Hlavin. It's been incredible hearing the heart and wisdom of our superintendent and we pray you can glean some helpful information about how to live healthy lives, lead those around you, and how to launch into your communities. We thank you pastors and leaders for taking the time to join us today as we all learn more about who God created us to be together.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website atMMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we are switching up the script! We have Pastor Jim Riley, our Live director interviewing Pastor Aaron Hlavin, our Network Superintendent! Over the last couple episodes we've been privileged to hear a lot of wisdom from 2 different superintendents but today we get to hear the heart, thoughts, and vision of our own!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website atMMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we continue the conversation with Pastor Darryl Wootton, the superintendent of Oklahoma and our speaker from Refresh 25. Pastor Aaron and pastor Darryl share their thoughts on the things churches should know from the viewpoints of a superintendent. We pray will help you as you lead you church and bring clarity to the best way to serve your communities.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Darryl Wootton, the superintendent of Oklahoma and our speaker from Refresh 25 talking with Pastor Aaron on the things churches should know from the viewpoints of a superintendent. No one knows what fully happens inside our Networks quite like the superintendents. We took some time at Refresh to have some insightful conversations that we pray will help you as you lead you church and bring clarity to the best way to serve your communities.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Ben Murray, lead pastor of Northville Christian sharing with us how he goes about learning while having to be the one in charge. There's always something new to learn. It's a hard truth for some, and an exciting adventure for others. How are you supposed to go about on a learning journey while being the one people are trying to glean from? How can you make sure to take care of yourself while leading others? Pastor Ben and Pastor Aaron delve into how to extract wisdom from past missteps, remain open to fresh perspectives, and allow your vision for the future to fuel your own development, all while effectively shepherding a church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Happy New Year! We look back at 2024 with gratitude and look forward to 2025 with hope. Pastor Aaron Hlavin shares with us today on the importance of starting this year off with full reliance on God. We're called to fully pursue the Lord and with it being a new year, it's a great time for refresh our spiritual growth. We pray that people will come to know Christ through your churches, people you lead, and how you live your lives throughout this new year.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Brooks McElhenny, the MMN Secretary Treasurer sharing with us about the Acts 2 Journey. The Acts 2 Journey is a transformative process to help you fulfill your vision to strengthen your church spiritually, numerically, and relationally. You and a team of your church leaders would attend four weekend retreats throughout one year. This includes a focus on prayer, dreaming, vision development, core values identification, church structure/processes, and strategizing about the future of your church.
You can get more information on the Acts 2 Journey, please visit: mmn.ag/mmn-recalibration
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Merry Christmas Michigan Pastors and leaders! We here at the Michigan Ministry Network are so incredibly thankful for you. We are thankful that you choose to LIVE healthy lives, LEAD thriving churches, and LAUNCH into the communities around you. We pray this Christmas season is restful and filled with the joy of the Lord. We pray you and your families have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Ben Vegh, Lead pastor of The Gateway Church, sharing with us on why Fine Arts for kids and students isn't just about showcasing talents, but giving them opportunities to minister through their giftings. Fine Arts is designed to celebrate the goodness of God through the talents He's given us. So why should Fine Arts be important to your church? It's about investing and believing in these students and giving them a chance to use their giftings for God.
You can get more information on this years Fine Arts festivals at https://www.agmsm.org/fine-arts
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
This episode today is a longer one but is PACKED with good information on how to keep a healthy marriage.
Today, we have John and Judy Pyper, the National Directors of AG Marriage Encounter, sharing with us how to have and maintain a healthy marriage. If we can't have a healthy marriage, it's extremely difficult for us to lead thriving churches. Marriage need to intentional. It doesn't just "happen" everyday. John and Judy share their wisdom on the problems and solutions pastors and spouses face when it comes to maintaining a healthy marriage.
For more information on Marriage Encounter, you can visit agme.org
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Jim Riley, our Live Director for the Network talking with us about our resource on conducting funerals or memorial services. This is one of the hardest, but most honoring part of being a pastor. But what do you do when it's a community member outside of your church? How can you connect and minister to people that have gone through one of the hardest times of their lives when you don't know them well? How do you effectively prepare a memorial service that both honors and celebrates the deceased with a heart of gratitude that comforts those that are still here? This is a great episode for those that have not gone through a funeral planning yet or those that still find it difficult on them to prepare.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Pastor Aaron Hlavin sharing his heart on finding thankfulness in all things. First of all, we are so grateful for you, the pastors and leaders in our amazing state. There are so many reasons for us to be thankful during this time, but it's easy to lose track of those reasons if we don't focus on them. The more we focus on our identity in Christ, not just our assignment, it becomes easier to find things to be grateful for. Thank you MMN pastors for all you do to serve your churches and the people in your communities.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have John Opalewski, owner and founder of Converge Coaching which is all about helping pastors getting and remaining spiritually and mentally healthy. Today, we discuss the trends of the current church. The first thing we're seeing is that people are HUNGRY for the Word of God. There is such a need for truth nowadays and people are recognizing that. How can we capitalize on this need? How can we bring the truth to them? There also has been a trend of building your staff from within. It's about finding those who have a call and training those in your church to lead and grow within your church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Zach Preston, Kids pastor at Mount Hope and Kids Min Liaison for the MMN sharing with us on his passion and role in helping churches in our network with their children's ministries. There's such a massive need for a solid kids program in churches nowadays with many young families wanting to get involved in a local church. There is a need to assist with solid curriculum if there's no fulltime pastor in kids min, or even to help with ideas on coming up with elevated lessons. There's an amazing free program called Kids Min Roadmap that Zach would love to help you implement if you have a need in your church.
To contact Zach about how he can help your church, you can email him at: Zachp@mounthope.org
To learn more about Kids Min Roadmap, you can go to Kidminroadmap.com
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Gerad Strong, one of the directors at CMN (Church Multiplication Network), sharing with us on what it looks like to plant churches no matter the current size of your church. We have such a growing need for churches in this nation. We are all called to make disciples, this also means to train and disciple future pastors. The size of your church shouldn't matter when God is calling you to expand outside of your own walls. This episode is great for those who may have a calling to help future pastors find their own churches or event helping them plant a church.
If you want more information, go to iwanttoplantachurch.com
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have John Zick, National Director of Called.
Called is focused on equipping those who feel called into vocational ministry as quickly as possible. Called is about gaining, training, and retaining future ministers in the AG.This is a great program not just for future ministers, but for lead pastors to help guide them throughout the process. It's so important that these students that are called have a leader that wants to talk them through the process, educate them, and mentor them.
For more information or resources on Called, you can go to http://called.ag.org
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have David Boyd, one of our speakers from ACLC and Fire Bible ambassador, sharing with us on the importance of the Fire Bible and the impact it's had on reaching the world. The Fire Bible is for those who want to not just read the Word, but study it enough to be able to teach the nuances of it. The Fire Bible has been translated into over 60 languages and has been helping our missionaries all over get the Word into peoples hands.
If you want more information on the Fire Bible and how to get involved, you can go to firebible.org
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Julie Pratt, AG Director of Children's Discipleship, and one of our keynote speakers at our ACLC event sharing with us on how to minister to the next generation. How do we go about discipling the next generation? This is the most creative generation that will work jobs that don't even exist yet. How can we bring that creativity and mindset into the church? They truly are interested in being a part of the church. We need to make sure we have space for them to be involved.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Bill Leach, former Michigan AG Superintendent sharing with us his lessons he's had to learn from 50 years of ordained ministry. "You have to love what you do." Pastor Bill has many years of ministry experience in all aspects and shares how God has pulled him through the toughest times and how to trust Him in the good times. We are so thankful to have his wisdom pouring into our lives.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today we have Tom Forgo, Executive pastor at Vision Pointe Church talking with us on the importance of having fun and doing life with the people you lead. A culture of fun helps people in the church be less defensive, more productive, and more contagious. Vision Pointe has seen a culture of serving and volunteering in the church people they purposely make it a fun environment for their people. But to have a joyful church, you need to be a joy-filled person. Vision Pointe church is known for their joy of their staff so we're excited to learn from pastor Tom.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today we have Jeremy Gyorke, lead pastor of Wyandotte Family Church, sharing on the importance of taking care of not just your spirit, but your God created body as well. Why should physical health be important to us in ministry? Because our physical, spiritual, and mental health is all connected with each other. There's so much potential stress in ministry when leading people. It doesn't matter if your willing to lead and pour into people if your body isn't capable of handling it.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today we have Steve Samonek, senior pastor of Abundant Life Assembly, sharing on how to maximize your creativity and ministry effectiveness in a limited space or with limited resources. Not everyone can break ground on a new building or start a massive expansion project. So how can we best utilize what we have available to us without having to spend a tremendous amount of money? Pastor Steve has had 18 years of experience figuring out this dilemma and is sharing his experience and expertise in this area.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today we have Rocky Barra, Pastor Emeritus & Second Wind, AND Dave Stephens, Lead Pastor at Canton Connections Church sharing with us on how to transition leadership well in a church. Change can be hard for a church, especially when a new lead pastor takes over. So how can this be done in such a way that it is both beneficial to the church body, the current staff of the church, as well as both leaders in the middle of the transition. Pastors Rocky and Dave have had to learn how to navigate this well for their people and have done a fantastic job on leading and honoring God's vision for the church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Rocky Barra, Pastor Emeritus & Second Wind, sharing with us on how to lead a church that will continue on after you. Having a succession mindset is something that Jesus taught his disciples, we as pastors need to follow that mindset not just in leading those around us, but leading those who might one day lead us. Your church cannot end with you. Your job as a pastor and a leader is to make sure the church far outlasts your time in the pastor position. Pastor Rocky shares how he and his staff went about this big change and how it has been a positive change for the church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Lisa Harrell, pastor at Revival Tabernacle, sharing her heart on what it means to love on the people in your community outside of your church. The local church should have a local heartbeat for what is happening around them. Pastor Lisa does an amazing job challenging the typical way of thinking when it comes to ministry. We need to fully understand the heartbeat and culture of what's around us in order to reach out and show the love of Jesus effectively.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Eddie Marcum, lead pastor at River of Life church talking with us about how to keep trusting God that the prodigal will come back. Pastor Eddie shares his personal story with us and what God has done in his life to bring him back. We all know someone that is believing that God is going bring back a loved one to the faith and we need to know what to do in the meantime while trusting Him. Pastor Eddie's story is one of many prodigals that have returned. This a powerful episode that we're praying brings hope to those who are living in waiting.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Mitch Frost, lead pastor of Tecumseh Assembly Of God, sharing with us on what healthy success looks like in ministry and what it really isn't. Success is becoming the person God has called you to become, and doing what God has called you to do in His way and in His time. Success doesn't happen overnight, so how do we deal with the waiting? How can we make sure we're working within God's timing and being satisfied with that? Pastor Mitch has a lot of wisdom that he shares in this episode.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Phil Eliason, lead pastor of Ann Arbor Assembly of God talking with us on the importance of character in ministry. There's the saying "your talents can take you to places where your character cannot sustain you." How can you know if your character is slipping? It's important to take time to reflect even before someone else points it out. It's so important to have a character that reflects Jesus but we often confuse character for control.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Tom Mattiuzzo, co-pastor of Every Nation Church in Flint sharing with us on how to provide care for not just those inside your church, but those in your community. As churches, we need to have a culture of compassion, caring, and serving, just as Jesus had for himself and the disciples. There's a practicality to serving that pastor Tom lays out clearly for us.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Kim Sivyer, ordained minister, military veteran, and retired police sergeant talking with us about how to keep your people safe. Unfortunately, the world isn't a safe place for everyone. Our churches are called to love on people that are dealing with all sorts of issues and we can't always know everyone's intentions. It's very important that we understand we have a spiritual responsibility to be prayed up and sensitive to Holy Spirit so we can address situations that may arise. It's not just how we handle the physical situation, but are ready to fight spiritually as well. Pastor Kim does a great job explaining how to do both well to keep your people safe from potential threats.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Jessica Meissner, youth pastor at Auburn Hills Christian Center walking us through the process of remembering the why of ministry when things get tough. How do we deal with the difficult people? How do we have realistic expectations of others and of ourselves? We can't be Jesus to people. We are not the Lord, we are called to work WITH the Lord. Sometimes we need to take a step back and refocus our foundation and focus on the fundamentals of Christianity (the Word, prayer, worship, walking with the Father).
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Choco De Jesús, Assemblies of God US Missions Director, sharing his heart and the AG's vision of US missions. Pastor Choco share a lot of wisdom and encouragement for pastors in our network. These missionaries are reaching the lost here in our country and partnering with churches around the US. All of our US missionaries need to know they are loved and supported by our network. We are so thankful for the mission God has given him to serve these missionaries in our own backyards.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have John Easter, Executive Director of AG World Missions sharing a follow up from his keynote message at Network Council and talking more on the concept of sons and daughter in the missions field. It changes the dynamic of how we view missionaries if we view them as our own sons and daughters and that should also change the way we support them.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Sam Agee, lead pastor at Life Worship Center sharing with us on visionary preaching. This is all about having a full vision for your preaching, not just preaching vision. "Don't preach for Sunday, preach for everyday." As ministers of the gospel, it's our job to make sure we're putting forth every best effort to help the Word stick in peoples hearts. This will happen when we have a full vision for what our sermons are supposed to look like.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today we have Tom Wirtz, lead pastor at Freeland Assembly of God sharing his expertise in staying positive while creating changes in your church. "Everyone loves change until you change something they love." How can you get around this mindset? There's so much change that a new pastor wants to make when they take over a ministry but it's so important that we understand the history of the church, the peoples heart, and what is happening around the community before we should implement many changes.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today, we have Jennae James and Tony Van Duser our camp directors of both Faholo and Lost Valley talking with us on the importance of camps in peoples lives. Camps season isn't just for students and kids. Camps are a time for people to grow together in Christ and get away from the craziness of life to seek His face and hear His voice. Camps are a time for people to make commitments and find callings. It's so important that we invest in those opportunities.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today, we have Scott Shamel, lead pastor at Harbor Church, talking with us on how to create healthy change in a church. How do you determine what is "healthy" change? How can you honor the past whether that's people, process, or progress, but make effective changes that you know will help propel the church to the next level? What if you're a new pastor and you're trying to find out what's been done and what has worked in the past? Pastor Scott has great insight into making healthy changes and we're thankful for him walking us through the process he went through when taking his lead pastor role.For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.Today, we have Jason McKay, campus pastor of Freedom Center Church Linden Campus, sharing with us on what it takes to be a successful campus pastor. Being a campus pastor means you're running your own church, being a part of the community, and doing ministry for the people there but under the vision of another leader. How does that exactly work? Pastor Jason has been serving at Freedom Center Church for over 20 years and has helped shape the culture of the church and has been entrusted to do the same at a new location. We're thankful to him for sharing his wisdom on this topic.For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Dan Burger, lead pastor of Lapeer Assembly, sharing with us on the importance of having healthy pastoral relationships. The enemy is really good at making us feel isolated when we're going all the time. It's important to place high value on the that are close to us. What happens when someone leaves our church? How should we feel if their leaving for even the best of reasons? How can we make sure to stay healthy in our relationships as a pastor? We're thankful for Pastor Dan's wisdom in walking us through his processes.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Brian Lidbeck, the Academic Dean at Northpoint College, talking with us about the Next Generations hunger for the Holy Spirit. They have a great desire for Holy Spirit and we have an opportunity to invite them into an experience with the power of God and the fullness of His presence in their lives. They want to be connected with the older generation because they want to see the passion for the real authentic presence of the Holy Spirit.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Tim Pike, lead pastor at New Life Christian Fellowship talking with us on the importance of having a spiritual hunger as a leader. "Spiritual hunger is a state of being that we decide that knowing God is the most important thing we can do." It's so important that we are being even more intentional to pursue the true nature of God. How can we make sure to stay hungry for not just what He has for us, but for who He is?
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Brett Carleton, marketing director at Freedom Center Church talking about the importance of the "presentation" of the local church. The hype of marketing can never and will never replace the full power and wonder of God. But, why is it important to have a good presence? Is livestream/social media necessary for every church? What if I don't have people that can assist with the setup or running of the equipment or creating graphics and videos? These are a few of the questions we hope to be able to help answer during this episode of the podcast.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Larry Clair, executive pastor at Freedom Christian, talking with us on the role of an executive pastor and the importance of administration in the church. "It's filling the gap between vision and reality." The goal is to fulfill the goal of the lead pastor while leading from the second chair. It's not about the accolades or the recognition, it's about making their vision come to life. Not everyone is created to fit in this role and we're grateful for pastor Larry to share his experience in the role and what a great executive pastor should look like.
To register for the Executive Pastors Cohort, please go to: https://shorturl.at/twGN4
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have special guest, Jaime Hlavin talking about what it's like being the spouse of a minister. Ministry is more than a job, it's a calling. So how do we balance the call of ministry and keeping/building a healthy marriage? Ministry will always impact your marriage on some level. Pastor Aaron and Jaime share some fun stories as well as the lessons they've had to learn along the way. This would be an AMAZING episode to listen together as a couple or for those in ministry living a single life and are looking for a future spouse.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have a part 2 from our speaker from Refresh, Greg Surratt. The discussion today is all about the greatest opportunities we have as the church and envisioning the future of the church! What does the future hold for the church? What can we do to move to that next level in our ministries? Who do we have around us that need to be called up to that next level? These are a few of the discussion points from todays podcast.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have our speaker from Refresh, Greg Surratt. Pastor Greg is the founding pastor at Seacoast church and is the president and co-founder of the Association of Related Churches (ARC), which is a global church-planting initiative that has established over 800 churches worldwide.
Pastors Aaron and Greg continued the discussion from the Refresh Conference this past week talking about personal and mental health as a pastor. If you're a pastor who is dealing with, or on the verge of burnout or struggling mentally, you NEED to listen to this episode. It's so important that we are mentally, physically, and spiritually healthy, but that's not always the case for some of us. We need safe people to talk with and a community lifting us when we're weary.
If you need a safe professional to speak with, please check out our Safe Zone Counselor list at www.mmn.ag/print-resources
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Lori O'Dea, lead pastor at New Life Assembly, talking with us about women in leadership! Lori leads our Network of Women Ministers which exists to mobilize women to fulfill their ministerial call. We get to talk about the exciting things that are happening in ministry when it comes to more women taking leadership positions in ministry. Lori shares the struggles and difficulties as well as the strengths that majority of women face in ministry. We absolutely love that more women are taking lead roes in ministry and are so thankful for people like Lori to help guide the next generation of women ministers.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Today, we have Devin Gough, senior pastor at Revival Tabernacle, sharing the struggles and the successes of urban ministry. We all know there's a big difference in how we do ministry in the urban, suburban, and rural parts of Michigan. We can't just be copy paste churches and expect things to work for these different communities. We have SO much to learn from each other and we pray you get a lot out of the wisdom of pastor Devin just as we have. Pastor Devin shares his wins, hopes, and struggles when it comes to pastoring in his community.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Happy New Year! God did SO much through our churches and you pastors and leaders this last year and we're SO thankful to be a part of a network along side you amazing pastors and leaders. This episode of the podcast starts season 2! We have Pastor Aaron Hlavin sharing on how to close a year of ministry and start a new one. January can have some really high highs and low lows. This new year is a chance for us to take a look back at what worked and dream for what God has this next year. This is a chance to cast new vision as a church and get our people to see what God has for us. We're praying for you all this new year!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
Merry Christmas! This is the last episode of the podcast for this year! We're coming to you with a quick Christmas blessing from Pastor Aaron Hlavin, Pastor Bradley T. Trask, and Pastor Brooks McElhenny. We are so grateful you have spent this year with us learning from some of the greatest pastors in the nation and we're praying God has given you some wisdom and insight throughout the year. We pray blessings and miracles over your families, churches, and God-given dreams this season!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.We have only 2 more episodes for the year! This has been an amazing year of learning from our amazing pastors and leaders in our network. We appreciate all the wisdom and teachings that have come from this podcast. Today, we have a special episode featuring Jaime Hlavin and Pastor Aaron Hlavin talking about how they celebrate Christmas as a ministry. Christmas has a lot of different meanings to a lot of different people. It isn't always the happiest time of the year for everyone. The teaching and conversation today is to talk through those different feelings people may have at this time of year.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode. we have Henrik Lidman, pastor of Prayer & Praise Assembly talking with us about how to love people with excellence in a small church. We can't always look at the larger churches and say "if it works for them, it must work for us." God has a specific plan for each individual church that is going to look different and honestly needs to be different. Smaller communities and churches have so many different opportunities that the larger churches can't achieve. Pastor Henrik walks us through what a smaller sized church can accomplish and how to impact your community for the Kingdom.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have our very own, Lisa Nagle, Office Manager & Administrative Assistant to the Network Superintendent. Lisa has served at the network office for 34 years and has served under 3 different superintendents and has a WIDE range of experience in this role. Today, she shares her wisdom and experience on what it takes to be a great administrative assistant when working with a visionary leader. If you're looking for an administrative assistant or have one currently, this is a great episode for you or your team to listen to.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have, Pat Rusch, assistant and missions pastor of Christian Celebration Center sharing his heart on missions in the AG. Why is the AG so passionate about sending missionaries throughout the world? It's all about being obedient to the calling of God. There are still lost people out there. Pat talks about how we as a church body can gain a NEW passion for missions and how to get those around us excited as well.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have, Zach Preston, kids pastor at Mount Hope Church and kids ministry liaison for the MMN talking about the state of Kids ministry in the local church. What is the current state of kids ministry as as whole? What are kids, and kids ministry volunteers/leaders needing to thrive? This generation craves the authentic and will be able to see when they are just tolerated rather than celebrated. We need to be a church that is EXCITED about kids ministry!
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have, Mike Houser, lead pastor of Holland First Assembly of God. Today, we're talking about restoring hope to a defeated church. What do you do when things seem like they're falling around you? What are the opportunities on the other side of that chaos? There's good to be had through the hardship if God has called you and you can persevere.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have, Raymond Marshall, Student Ministries Director the for MMN! This last weekend we watch as God healed, saved, and called students at Youth Convention and figured it would be a great time to talk about the greatest things about this next generation. How can we as pastors and leaders lead and serve them well? They are passionately hungry for the gospel and want to hear from you! It's time we call them as disciples to follow and learn so they can go and create their own disciples.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode we have, Rhonda Trask, director of the MMN Narrative Ministry, who's mission is to Increase awareness of the need for foster care and adoption. The topic for today is Foster and Adoption care in the church. What should we be doing as the church? Should your church have a foster/adoption ministry for your community? If you have any questions or interest in starting a ministry like this, please reach out to Rhonda at rhonda@brightonag.org
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Casey Arnouts, pastor at Grace Assembly of God, sharing with us on the topic "Intergenerational worship". Simply put, it's about creating a space for all generations to worship together as one. How do we go about this though? How do you take the different elements of all the types of ministries we usually have for different age groups and make it impactful for all? Pastor Casey shares a unique view on this amazing concept of gathering the generations together to worship.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
***This episode was recorded before the most recent attacks on Israel. On today's episode, we have Brooks McElhenny, MMN Secretary Treasurer, talking about peace. This episode is all about peace whether that's finding it in yourself or showing it to those around us. We all have our own thoughts on what's going on around us and can make our own conclusions based on what we look for, but one thing we can agree on, we need the love, grace, and peace of Jesus.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Bradley T. Trask, lead pastor of Brighton Assembly of God and Assistant Superintendent of the Michigan Ministry Network! The topic of discussion of all things leadership. Leading intentionally is becoming more and more rare as time goes on, we as the church cannot afford to lose that mindset. Today, we discuss why it has become harder to lead, what difficulties around us have affected leaders, and the importance of leading intentionally, with purpose.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Lisa Marsack, executive pastor at Bridgewood Church, sharing what it means to be fully you while leading in the church. What do we do when ministry tries to change us from who we know God created us to be? How are we supposed to go about taking a step back and evaluate if what people/the ministry tells us we need to be? We know who gave us our calling into ministry, and it wasn't man. Some of us need to learn to make choices and trust that God will move in them. We're thankful to have Lisa with us to help guide us through this process.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Cal Garcia, lead pastor of Auburn Hills Christian Center, sharing on how to create a culture of diversity in the local church. Pastor Cal works with many diverse cultures in his church, not just ethnically, but also different socioeconomic backgrounds. If the Kingdom of God represents every tribe, every tongue, every nation, we need to be sharing the gospel with them as well. This is a powerful episode on how to build a culture of diversity and just how to learn to be accepting of all peoples.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Herb Helsel, lead pastor at The Grove Church, sharing with us on the subject how to lead a growing church without losing yourself. What healthy habits, thoughts, and patterns do you need to have to keep yourself healthy? What are the hard decisions do you need to make for yourself to keep you and your family healthy? Taking care of yourself is vital if we're to minister to those around us. We're thankful for pastor Herb sharing his wisdom with us today.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Randy Merren, former lead pastor and now missionary to Middle Eastern refugees in the Metro Detroit area. This is a very important conversion we are having today about what missionaries like the least about calling pastors for support. It's not easy being a missionary and they need our help and support! This shows us what it's like on the other side of that conversation that seems to be uncomfortable (sometimes on both sides) to most.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Parker Saleski, the Kids Pastor at Rock Church (at the time of this recording, Parker was serving as the Next Gen pastor at the Shores Church). Our discussion revolves around the Next Gen's leaders view on diversity in the church. What does it mean to look different than those around you? What if your community is a different culture than you or your leadership? What kind of questions do we need to be asking ourselves and those around us? Parker has a unique view on diversity in the church that he gratefully shares with us.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Jeremy Gyorke, lead pastor at Wyandotte Family Church, talking about the life and rhythms of a church planter. What are the habits, process, and relationships that every church planter needs to stay healthy? Church planting is so important! We need more church planters. However, we need our church planters to be healthy so they can lead their communities well.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Curt Demoff, lead pastor of Bridgewood church talking with us on what it's like leading a creative church in the community. Why is creativity so important in a local church? "The mission never changes, but the methods do and creativity attacks the method." We can't be afraid of new and creative ideas as the church. We need to be embracing newness if that's what is needed in the community for them to be open to the thought of salvation. But what happens when you have too many people speaking into your vision? What happens when it doesn't go your way? Pastor Curt shares his heart with us and gives us a look behind the scenes on having a culture of creativity as the lead pastor.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Thomas Finley, lead pastor at Fairhaven Assembly of God, sharing on the benefits of diversity in the local church. Should we push for diversity in our churches? Why does it matter so much? We need to have people of different backgrounds cultures, and thoughts because it paints a bigger picture of who God is. It's so important that we strive for diversity in our churches because the Body of Christ is diverse and the more we discover about it, the more joy it brings.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Jim Westheim, Next Steps Pastor at Faith Alive Church sharing about the role executive pastoring and the principles of serving in the role with excellence. How does this role fully function? How are you supposed to carry out the lead pastors vision well? What do you as in an executive role need to learn, know, do? Jim shares his experience in this role and how other local churches can benefit from a similar position.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Bobby Hill, worship/discipleship pastor at The Gateway Church, sharing with us his wisdom on how to build a worship ministry structure. Most of what goes into a good worship ministry happens behind the scenes. There are different systems that need to be in place in order for the church to have a solid worship culture. As a worship leader/pastor, it's your job to facilitate and follow the leaders vision. Today, we discuss how to do that well by building solid systems for your church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Chad Deerman, lead pastor of Faith Alive Church talking about how to cultivate culture in a local church. It isn't good enough just to "create" culture. We need to find ways to sustain and grow the culture as well. "Culture is created from the top, sustained at the bottom, and lost in the middle." We need to find ways to define and cultivate a healthy culture in the church.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Brenda Maurer, Senior Pastor at Cornerstone Assembly of God, sharing with us how to make intentional change within our churches and ministries. We discuss how to get your church excited about the changes, how to deal with conflict that may/will arise, and how you as the leader can grow and learn during the times of change. You need to be prepared to answer the "why" behind the change.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Aaron Robinson, Spiritual Life Director at The Power Company Kids Club sharing with us the importance of understanding different cultures and people groups. Not everyone from the same culture or skin color has the same likes and dislikes, dreams and visions, skills and faults. Why do we group people like that? We need to learn people's individual stories. "Without story, all you are is a stereotype. If we don't get the story, the stereotype becomes the prototype."
To learn more about The Power Company, check out thepckc.org
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Shannon Shaffer, worship pastor at Auburn Hills Christian Center sharing with us the personal disciplines of a worship leader. If we are called to lead others into a space of praise, awe, and worship, we should be able to find that outside of leading on a stage. We need to press into God in the private more-so than the public. How do you mostly hear from God? Pastor Shannon shares his thoughts and ideas on deepening your personal walk in order to lead those around you.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Ben Vegh, lead pastor of The Gateway Church. Our discussion today revolves around being able to evaluate where your church is at with honesty. You need to be able to look through the history of the church, the fruit of the people that attend, and answer honestly if your church is going after the mission that God has called you to. We don't ask questions that we don't really want to hear the answers to because we're afraid of the answers or the discouragement that may come. How can we overcome this fear? This is a big part of the discussion on today's episode.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Richard Colon, Lead pastor at Santos Church talking about how the church has an amazing opportunity to be diverse in culture to reach the communities around us. We're not all called to look the same, speak the same way, reach the same people. We have a specific community we're supposed to reach so we need to make sure we're not just reflecting Christ, but the community as well.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On today's episode, we have Kamron Oberlin, lead pastor of Greater Lansing First, teaches us how to move the church's vision forward with limited resources. How can we have big vision with very little resources? What do we do with that vision and how do we truly trust God to fulfill the vision? We believe this is an AMAZING teaching that a lot of our pastors need to hear today.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Tina Hudson, Youth Pastor at Carleton Assembly of God Church. Our discussion today revolves around being a great staff member. Tina has served under 5 different lead pastors at the same church and has lots of insight into what it's like watching transitions happen around her while staying herself. She shares the ups and downs when a new leader comes in and brings new vision.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Travis Buerky, Lead Pastor at Hickory Ridge Community Church, back with us again talking about what it takes to build a successful worship team. How do you balance styles, egos, talents and callings within people when it comes to putting them on stage to lead your people in worship? How do you create a healthy worship culture in your own church? Today's discussion hopefully will help answer these questions and more.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Travis Buerky, Lead Pastor at Hickory Ridge Community Church, sharing with us his experience on both sides of being a worship leader working with a lead pastor, and being said lead pastor. Musical worship is a huge part of our services nowadays. We need to be on the same page across the board when it comes to ushering people to the throne room of God. We are excited to discuss how to build that solid relationship between lead pastor and worship leader.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Rob King, lead pastor at Trinity Assembly sharing with us the mistakes leaders make in ministry and what we can learn from them. If you're just starting out in ministry, or have been in it for 30+ years, there is wisdom for everyone to get something out of today's conversation.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Jeff Haddon, young adult pastor at Trinity Assembly of God. Today we discuss all things young adults. How do we engage them where they are? How can we help them with their call to ministry? What happens if we don't reach out and have a place for them in our churches and teams? The young adults are the ones who will be taking the baton in ministry and we as pastors and leaders need to have a good grasp on how to disciple them as Jesus did.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have Jamie Kjos, lead pastor of Brightmoor church, helping us through what it takes to make BIG decisions in ministry. If you're in charge of your church or ministry, you need to be able to make big decisions not just for you, but for your team. Leaders sometimes become fearful of making decisions but it's not about only you when you're making a decision about your ministry. It's about those you serve.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode we have our former superintendent, Jeff Hlavin! Today's topic is all about handling betrayal in ministry. One of the first things we need to figure out is if it's true betrayal or just a misunderstanding or feeling even annoyed. What do we do with those true betrayals that come our way? How can we forgive and trust that God helps us move through them? We are thankful for pastor Jeff's many years of experience and wisdom to help us through this topic.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Christy Demoff from Bridgewood Church. Today, we have a great discussion on keeping your family healthy when in the thick of ministry. There are many attacks that come our way as ministers of the gospel and some of those attacks are targeted at our kids. There's a tension between pastoring and parenting. We need to pay attention to that tension. We are not supposed to be "pastor parents" we are supposed to be fully their parent.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have James Courter, lead pastor at Faith Church. Discouragement is a part of life, but it's not supposed to define us. Today, we discuss how to recognize and handle discouragement in ministry. We need to address it rather than try to ignore it before we become too acquainted with it.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Angelo Fleece, lead pastor at Rock Church. Today, we continue the discussion on church planting. Pastor Angelo shares his wisdom with us about when he was going through the planting process talking about the lessons he's learned along the way.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Jim Wiegand, lead pastor of Freedom Center Church talking about the importance of planting new churches. Why do we need more churches? Because the world needs Jesus and we're called to bring the truth to it. We need more church planters. We need those who have a burden and passion for an area, people group, or just an unquenchable thirst to bring people to Jesus. If you would like more information on church planting, you can visit us at https://www.mmn.ag/church-multiplication.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Steve Gallegos, Children Ministries Pastor at Auburn Hills Christian Center. Steve has been on staff for over 21 years serving under the same leadership. There are certain qualities that people look for in leadership to stay on as long as he has. Today, he shares his wisdom with us on what it takes to be motivated, passionate, and faithful to be on the same team for over 20 years.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have John Opalewski, owner of Converge Coaching speaking with us on the importance of rest! As pastors and leaders, we will sometimes push ourselves beyond what we're capable of because we are so passionate about the call. However, this isn't a good long term strategy. We need to learn what our bodies, souls, minds, and spirits need to sustain us longterm in order for us to see longevity in our ministries.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Dave Barringer, lead pastor at Kalamazoo First. Today, we are talking about marriages! We've seen people do marriage and ministry well, and we've seen marriage take a backseat to ministry at times as well. God's goal is unity in all things and that starts in our marriages. We talk about how to build that trust and unity and how to be intentional about building that relationship through having a heart of gratitude and pursuit.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Shane Bryant, lead pastor from Charlotte Assembly of God. Today, we are discussing the pains and the discouraging moments in ministry. What happens when you love people but don't feel the love back? What happens when ministry doesn't turn out like you thought it would? Can you handle discouragement well or even recognize it? It might be something more than just a bad day but that means we need to be prepared to conquer that mindset and find hope, peace, and joy in what God has.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Jim Riley, lead pastor from Eaton Rapid Assembly of God. We discuss the pain in we as ministers can unintentionally cause to the people around us as well as the losses, both good and bad, that happen within our ministries. We don't always say the "right" things and need to learn how to repent and move forward because we are called to pastor people.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Cal Garcia from Auburn Hills Christian Center speaking with us on how to deal with conflict within the church. Whether it's a staff member, board member, or parishioner, we've all dealt with someone that has tried to point out what's wrong with either the church or us. There are times to engage and times when we should not. Pastor Cal shares his wisdom and stories with us today.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Kevin Berry from Mount Hope Church in Lansing. Today, we discuss how a good leader needs to have a great prayer and devotional life! There's so many misconceptions we tell ourselves about when/how/what we pray and dig into the Word. We need to find the true heart of why we are called to pray and have that time for devotions.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Rich Guerra who was our Refresh speaker sharing more of his wisdom with us. Today, we get to talk about church! We discuss the current state of the church and it's needs and dream together about the potential that the church could/will have in the future.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.On todays episode, we have JP Dorsey talking with us about how to speak to the next generation. There are many important conversations that need to be had but we're all still learning how to approach the next generation and making sure they know that we're also approachable. For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Eric Hoffman, the national Speed The Light director talking with us about next gen leadership as it relates to missions. He does an amazing job teaching on how to cultivate the heart of missions at the earliest of ages in our churches.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag
Welcome to the L3 Podcast! We hope this podcast will be helpful to both you and your ministry.
On todays episode, we have Jim Wiegand, the lead pastor at Freedom Center Church in Fenton talking with us about how to have healthy relationship with your next generation of leaders. We get into what it means to speak life and correction into their lives as a lead pastor as well as how to intentionally build relationships with them.
For more information on the Michigan Ministry Network, please go to our website at MMN.ag