Means of Grace

Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church
  • 5.0 (17)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Means of Grace, a podcast from the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, equips church leaders through expertise and examples. Twice a month, we feature local experts on a variety of topics from leadership to innovation and share examples of churches in our conference reaching their communities in news ways through mission engagement, Fresh Expressions and much more. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, defined Means of Grace as the outward signs, words or actions that are the ordinary channels conveying God's grace to the souls of people. So when we're talking about leadership or discipleship or an outreach initiative, it's about more than doing a program well, it's a means of God's grace to the world.

  1. MAY 7

    Handing It Off: Worship, Legacy, and the Future of Conference with Rev. Dr. Kaury Edwards

    Join Jesse Enniss and John Yeager as they chat with Kaury Edwards, a visionary Annual Conference worship leader preparing to pass the baton after four years of shaping unforgettable conference experiences. Kaury shares the meticulous process of blending deep-rooted Methodist traditions with bold, innovative design that reimagines sacred space — from stunning backdrops inspired by Taylor Swift's Eras Tour to visual art that celebrates 660+ churches. You'll discover how intentional planning, community participation, and spiritual discernment turn routine gatherings into Holy Spirit-filled Annual Confernce celebrations. Show Notes:  Annual Conference 2026 - June 18-21. Lake Junaluska, NC Failure-Sparked Innovation: The Key to Ensuring the Future of Local Churches by Kaury C. Edwards Chapters  00:00 The Heart of Annual Conference Worship 03:02 Planning and Preparation for Annual Conference Worship 06:05 Balancing Tradition and Creativity 09:11 Creative Elements in Worship 12:06 Engaging with Juneteenth 15:00 Transitioning Out of Leadership 18:01 Strangely Heartwarming Moments 22:42 Connecting Through Liturgy 23:59 Bold Creativity in Worship 26:21 Epic Fails 30:23 Embracing Failure as a Path to Growth 32:24 The Spirit's Role in Community 35:12 Anticipation for Annual Conference

    38 min

  2. APR 16

    Peace by the Lake, Rebuild the Church: Pilgrimage, Change, and the Work Ahead

    Summary This episode features insights on church leadership, the importance of humility, and navigating change during appointment season. Hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the significance of mentorship, avoiding ego, and the power of community in faith-based leadership.   Chapters  00:00 Introduction to the Peace Conference and Pilgrimage 05:31 Navigating Appointment Season 08:31 The Importance of Connection and Community 11:28 Theological Reflections on Leadership 14:25 The Role of Mentorship in Ministry 17:37 Epic Fails in Leadership 20:29 The Need for Balance in Ministry 23:22 Conclusion and Call to Action 32:02 MOG-Like and Subscribe

    32 min

  3. MAR 12

    Re-Air: Healing and Hope in Anxious Times

    MOG Re-Air from 2023: In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and Kim Ingram talk to Rev. Katherine Sherrill, a therapist, and United Methodist deacon, about the pervasive state of anxiety in our lives. They discuss how our relationship with God through the church can give hope and methods for de-escalating our worries. Share this holy conversation with a friend.

    38 min

  4. FEB 26

    Ashes and Roadmaps with Rev. Dr. In-Yong Lee

    Summary In this episode of Means of Grace, John Yeager explores the significance of Lent and its evolution over the years, emphasizing the importance of reflection and spiritual growth. He is joined by Reverend Dr. In-Yong Lee, who shares her experiences as a district superintendent and the challenges faced by church leaders today. The conversation delves into the practices of Lent, including fasting, prayer, and giving, and discusses the recent regionalization within the United Methodist Church, highlighting the need for community support during these challenging times. Show Note: Quietly Courageous by Gil Rendle   Chapters 00:00 Understanding Lent: A Journey of Reflection 02:57 The Role of Leadership in the Church 03:58 Navigating Challenges in Ministry 07:00 The Importance of Connection and Community 09:42 Practices of Faith: Prayer, Fasting, and Giving 12:51 The Essence of Fasting and Its Spiritual Significance 17:38 Tithing: Balancing Generosity and Responsibility 24:57 The Role of Wealth in Generosity 28:14 Understanding Regionalization in the UMC 36:01 Clergy Exhaustion and Community Support 44:43 Embracing Change During Lent 46:47 MOG-Like and Subscribe

    47 min

  5. FEB 12

    Peace Conference 2026

    Summary In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Rev. Beth Crissman engage in a profound discussion about the ongoing conversation surrounding peace, particularly in the context of the upcoming 2026 Peace Conference. They explore the theme of 'Disarming Hatred' and the importance of practicing peace as a form of resistance in a world filled with division and hatred. The conversation delves into the historical context of hatred, the difference between worldly peace and the peace of Jesus, and the necessity of community and individual action in fostering compassion and understanding. The speakers emphasize the importance of preparation for the conference, including self-reflection and partnership in advocacy for peace.   Show Notes: Peace Conference: March 13-15, 2026 Lake Junaluska, NC   Chapters 00:00 The Ongoing Conversation About Peace 01:25 Introducing the 2026 Peace Conference 02:04 Changes and Continuities in the Peace Conference 04:44 The Historical Context of Hatred 06:09 Shifting the Narrative from Hate to Compassion 08:44 The Illusion of Peace in History 10:35 Jesus' Peace vs. Worldly Peace 12:21 The Long Road to Shalom 13:34 Disarming Hatred: A Call to Action 15:41 Understanding the Roots of Division 18:16 Self-Examination and the Danger of Hatred 20:30 Preparing for the Peace Conference 23:04 The Role of Anger in Advocacy 26:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 34:48 MOG-Like and Subscribe.mp4

    35 min

  6. JAN 29

    God and the Machine with Rev. Nathan Webb

    Summary In this conversation, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager engage with Nathan Webb, author of 'God and the Machine', to explore the intersection of faith and technology. They discuss the historical context of technology in relation to faith, the ethical implications of AI in ministry, and the importance of building relationships in a digital age. Nathan shares his experiences as a church planter and the role of AI in enhancing accessibility and community within the church. The discussion emphasizes the need for ethical considerations in the use of technology and the enduring relevance of love and grace in ministry. Bio: Nathan Webb is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church and the founding pastor of Checkpoint Church, a digital-first United Methodist community. He writes and teaches at the intersection of faith, technology, and pop culture, creating accessible theology for digital natives and digital skeptics alike. Through YouTube, Twitch Substack, Discord, and other online platforms, Nathan reaches a global audience with weekly "nerdy sermons" and creative resources for churches navigating the digital age. Show Notes: God and the Machines Cokesbury Book Cokesbury Leader Guide Amazon Book Amazon Leader Guide The Remarkable Life of Ibelin News The A.I. Advantage The 2025 Annual Conference Journal Peace Conference 2026

    1h 2m

  7. JAN 15

    What We Carry, What We Release

    In this episode of the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the themes of humility, connection, and community as they reflect on the past year and look forward to 2026. They emphasize the importance of letting go of unrealistic expectations and perfectionism while embracing change and experimentation in ministry. The conversation also highlights the church's role in society, the need for intentional spiritual life, and the power of asking for help. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to engage in public witness for the common good and to support one another in their journeys of faith.   Show Notes: Bishop Carter shares his monthly pastoral letter and calendar with the WNCC. Human Relations Sunday - January 18th Equip & Connect in-person district gatherings will be happening on January 25th. Register for the 2026 Peace Conference coming up in March.  Register for the Grant Skill Builder webinar happening later this month.   Chapters  00:00 New Beginnings and Reflections for 2026  02:09 Understanding the Calendar: The Significance of 2026  07:08 What to Carry into 2026: Humility and Connection 12:25 Embracing Change: Letting Go of the Old 18:35 The Importance of Experimentation in Ministry 24:05 Adjusting Expectations: Meeting People Where They Are 30:32 Navigating First Impressions in Church 33:31 The Challenge of Welcoming Newcomers 35:27 Understanding Growth and Community Dynamics 38:25 Innovative Ministry Approaches 39:56 Letting Go of Shame and Embracing Vulnerability 47:59 Intentional Spiritual Life and Community Engagement 48:12 Conference Announcements 50:30 Intentional Spiritual Life and Community Engagement Continued 57:47 The Power of Asking for Help 01:02:05 MOG-Like and Subscribe

    1h 2m

  8. 12/31/2025

    2025 Means of Grace Year in Review

    Thank you for all your support throughout 2025. To end the year, we've compiled a few of our most inspirational stories. We look forward to bringing you more episodes in 2026!

    48 min
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5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Means of Grace, a podcast from the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, equips church leaders through expertise and examples. Twice a month, we feature local experts on a variety of topics from leadership to innovation and share examples of churches in our conference reaching their communities in news ways through mission engagement, Fresh Expressions and much more. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, defined Means of Grace as the outward signs, words or actions that are the ordinary channels conveying God's grace to the souls of people. So when we're talking about leadership or discipleship or an outreach initiative, it's about more than doing a program well, it's a means of God's grace to the world.

Information

  • Creator
    Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    178
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All Material Copyright 2019 Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church
  • Show Website
    Means of Grace

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