Baptist Bridges

CBOQ
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Baptist Bridges, the podcast where faith meets dialogue and connection! Join Executive Minister, Leanne Friessen, of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ) as we explore what it means to be part of the Baptist community. From contemporary issues to timeless truths, this podcast offers thought-provoking discussions and reflections through a lens of faith. Whether you're a lifelong Baptist or simply curious, Baptist Bridges is your place to engage, learn, and grow. Stay tuned as we journey together, building bridges of understanding and unity!

  1. 2025-07-10 · BONUS

    Caught in the Current (with Dr. Sam Reimer)

    Welcome to a special episode of Baptist Bridges, recorded live at Brock University during CBOQ Assembly’s Pastor’s Day! In this conversation, we’re joined by Dr. Sam Reimer, sociologist and author of Caught in the Current: British and Canadian Evangelicals in an Age of Self-Spirituality. We dive into what’s happening in our culture, why people are “deconstructing” their faith, and how belonging might matter more than apologetics. Plus: the rise of the “nonvert,” why relationships are everything, and how the church can still be a place where people meet God—even if they don’t start by calling it that. Whether you’re a pastor, parent, or just trying to make sense of the spiritual shifts around you, this one’s for you.

    34 min

  2. 2025-04-08

    Faces Of CBOQ: Meet Our New Ordinand

    In this special episode, our Executive Minister, Leanne Friesen, sits down with Rev. Laura Salakandu, one of our newest ordinands, to hear her powerful and inspiring testimony. Laura shares her journey of faith, calling, and the moments that led her to this new chapter in ministry. Whether you're discerning your own call or simply in need of encouragement, Laura’s story is a moving reminder of God’s faithfulness and the courage it takes to say “yes.” Notes: You can view photos and video from Laura's ordination here. Children & Family Certificate Training Program. Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Curtis Lai & Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

    37 min

  3. 2025-03-25 · BONUS

    Politics And The Pulpit (Re-Release)

    A few weeks ago, we released an episode of our podcast called "The Politics and the Pulpit." With the current political realities happening around us, we felt it was timely to release this episode again. Our Executive Minister, Rev. Leanne Friesen, recorded a special message to start the episode for all of you leading in these days. Part of her message states: "Pivot from believing or suggesting that our hope will be found if we just get the right person "on the throne." Christ is on the throne. Christ is the one we follow and in whom we place our hope. You are pastoring such challenging times and we are thankful for you. Know of our prayers for you. Know that you are seen, and do not underestimate the importance of your calling in this time and this place. Preach well, dear friends, and know that God is with you."   In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division. Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: ⁠Kevin Loten⁠ Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

    55 min

  4. 2025-03-18

    Should We Sabbatical?

    In this episode of Baptist Bridges, host Leanne Friesen is joined by guests Rev. Dr. Ken Foo and Curtis Lai to explore the importance of sabbaticals for pastors. They share personal experiences, discuss the biblical foundation of sabbaticals, and address common misconceptions, such as guilt, identity struggles, and church concerns. The conversation highlights how sabbaticals prevent burnout, strengthen leadership, and benefit entire congregations. Whether you're a pastor considering a sabbatical or a church leader wondering how to support one, this episode offers valuable insights on rest, renewal, and trusting God in ministry. Notes: Leanne mentioned that she wrote some pieces on her blog about Sabbatical, including one about the ephod. Here is a piece she wrote about struggling to take Sabbatical. Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Curtis Lai & Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

    49 min

  5. 2025-02-25

    Disability And The Church

    How can churches become truly inclusive communities for people with disabilities? In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith, accessibility, and belonging. Our guest, Rev. Dr. Stephen Bedard, shares personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how churches can move beyond accommodation to full participation. From practical steps to theological reflections, this conversation invites leaders and congregations to rethink what it means to be the body of Christ—where every member is valued and empowered. Tune in for an honest and hopeful discussion on breaking barriers and embracing diversity in our church communities. Notes: Here is an article Stephen wrote on importance of online services for accessibility and how that opens up new opportunities for disabled people. Additional resources: www.disabilityandchurch.com Stephen's X (formally Twitter) account: @stephenbedard10 Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Stephen Bedard Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

    50 min

  6. 2025-02-04

    More Than Babysitters

    Are today’s youth and young adults just the "future of the church" or vital leaders for today? How can churches empower youth and young adults to lead meaningfully? In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Leanne Friesen is joined by Alvin Lau, CBOQ's Youth Ministries Associate, and Tejay Morley, a young leader from North Burlington Baptist Church, to explore how mentorship and trust can transform the next generation of church leaders. Alvin shares insights on breaking stereotypes about Gen Z and Gen Alpha and creating meaningful leadership opportunities, while Tejay tells his inspiring story of turning a bold idea into a thriving youth-led ministry project. Discover practical ways your church can invest in and equip young people to make a lasting impact. Don’t miss this engaging conversation! Notes: CBOQ Youth Website Micro Grants Avalanche and Blizzard youth retreats Camp Kwasind Leaders In Training (L.I.T.) Young Leaders Collective RightNow Media CBOQ offer Bible in 30 Minutes Play that Tejay directed Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Alvin Lau and Tejay Morley Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

    53 min

  7. 2025-01-21

    Politics And The Pulpit

    In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division. Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Kevin Loten Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

    48 min

  8. 2025-01-07

    Faith Beyond Sunday School

    Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. In our first episode of Baptist Bridges for 2025, Faith Beyond Sunday School, Tanya Yuen sits down with two experts in family discipleship, Christie Thomas and Ken Foo, as they dive into the real challenges families face when it comes to spiritual growth at home. From time constraints to feeling overwhelmed and kids’ disinterest, these challenges are familiar to so many. But you will learn that small, intentional steps can make a big difference! Christie shares practical, easy-to-implement ideas that any family can use to incorporate faith throughout the week. Plus, she talks about her new book, Little Habits, Big Faith, and why simple practices can lead to deep, lasting spiritual growth in your family. Ken also discusses the crucial role of churches in supporting parents and reshaping ministries to help families thrive. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. Listen now to discover how you can help your family grow in faith with simple, everyday habits that make a big impact. Notes: • Little Shoots, Deep Roots: Christie Thomas' ministry that empowers parents to nurture their children's faith. • Christie Thomas' most recent book: Little Habits, Big Faith: How Simple Practices Help Your Family Grow in Jesus • Toronto Children's Ministry Conference Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Tanya Yuen Guests: Christie Thomas and Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

    52 min
See All (14)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Baptist Bridges, the podcast where faith meets dialogue and connection! Join Executive Minister, Leanne Friessen, of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ) as we explore what it means to be part of the Baptist community. From contemporary issues to timeless truths, this podcast offers thought-provoking discussions and reflections through a lens of faith. Whether you're a lifelong Baptist or simply curious, Baptist Bridges is your place to engage, learn, and grow. Stay tuned as we journey together, building bridges of understanding and unity!

Information

  • Creator
    CBOQ
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © CBOQ
  • Show Website
    Baptist Bridges