The Innovative Church Leaders Podcast

Innovative Church Leaders
  • 4.7 (12)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Biweekly

Innovative Church Leaders helps pastors experience and bring renewal to their mission field. Discover how to bring Spirit-led innovation, reach new people, and make disciples who make disciples. Sign up for our free email newsletter at https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/ to win free resources including books, access to conferences, and access to cohorts, workshops, and coaching!

  1. 12h ago

    12 Steps for Pastors: Experiencing Spiritual Vitality with Clifton Roth

    Cross Point Ministry's Executive Director, Clifton Roth discusses the importance of presence in pastoral care. He emphasizes that the best gift pastors can offer is their transformed and transforming presence, which is central to the journey of spiritual formation for pastors. Clifton shares insights into spiritual disciplines for pastors, highlighting how these practices are essential for maintaining emotional and spiritual health. He explains that strategies for building strong pastoral communities involve fostering authentic relationships and being present to God and others. The discussion also touches on how does recovery relate to spiritual formation for pastors? Cliff notes that recovery processes, such as 12-step programs, are integral to spiritual growth and healing. These programs are part of the broader journey of spiritual formation for pastors, helping them navigate personal and professional challenges. Cross Point Ministry offers various resources, including retreats and counseling, to support pastors. These initiatives are part of their strategies for building strong pastoral communities, ensuring that pastors have the tools they need for effective ministry. Understanding how does recovery relate to spiritual formation for pastors is crucial. 🎬 Video Chapters 0:00 - Transformative Presence in Ministry 3:01 - Origins of Cross Point Ministry 6:02 - Challenges Faced by Pastors 9:03 - Intervention and Prevention Strategies 12:04 - Frameworks for Pastoral Health 15:05 - Deeper Journey Retreat Series Conclusion In this episode, Clifton Roth discusses the importance of pastors being present to themselves, their families, and God, emphasizing the role of Cross Point Ministry in providing whole-person soul care. He highlights the shift from crisis intervention to preventive care, inviting pastors into ongoing relationships and healing. 📚 Resources Mentioned: CrossPoint Ministry - https://www.crosspointministry.com/ Steps by John Ortberg - https://www.amazon.com/Steps-Guide-Transforming-Willpower-Enough/dp/1496447042 Eric Bryant Website - https://www.ericbryant.org 🚀 Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: ⁠https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org ⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeaders LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders⁠ Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: ⁠https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com⁠ For free resources, sign up for our newsletter here: ⁠https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/⁠ #PastorRecovery #SpiritualFormation #PastoralHealth #RecoveryJourney #SpiritualDisciplines #PastorWellness #FaithAndRecovery #MinistryLife #PastoralCommunity #SpiritualGrowth #RecoverySupport #PastorCare #FormationJourney #HealthyPastors #SoulCare #innovativechurchleaders #EricBryant #CliftonRoth #CrossPointMinistry #CrossPoint

    12 Steps for Pastors: Experiencing Spiritual Vitality with Clifton Roth

  2. Jul 7

    Tracking God in Your Life with Laurie Polich Short

    In this video, Laurie Short shares her journey of faith and resilience. She explores the profound question: what does trusting in God mean? Through her personal experiences, Laurie illustrates how trusting in God's plan can transform our lives, even when circumstances seem bleak. Her story is a testament to how struggle builds character and how trusting God's plan for my life can lead to unexpected blessings. Trusting in God does not mean having all the answers but about finding peace in uncertainty. It means realizing that God is present in our circumstances, even when we don't understand them. This perspective helps us see that struggle builds character, shaping us into who we are meant to be. Reflect on past experiences to understand what trusting in God means. Identify moments where struggle built character in your life. Embrace the idea of trusting in God's plan, even when it's unclear. Consider how trusting God's plan for your life can lead to growth and fulfillment. 🎬 Video Chapters 0:00 Finding God in Hard Times 3:25 Laurie Short's New Project 6:50 Reflecting on Personal Stories 10:15 Laurie's Journey of Singleness 13:40 Unexpected Life Changes 17:05 Embracing God's Timing 20:30 Encouragement for Tough Seasons 📚 Resources Mentioned: Tracking God in Your Life by Laurie Short - https://www.amazon.com/Tracking-God-Your-Life-Experience/dp/0764244922/ Laurie Short Website - https://laurieshort.com Small Group Study on RightNow Media - https://www.rightnowmedia.org/Content/Series/123456 Eric Bryant Website - https://www.ericbryant.org 🚀 Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: ⁠https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org ⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeaders LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders⁠ Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: ⁠https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com⁠ For free resources, sign up for our newsletter here: ⁠https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/⁠ #TrustingInGod #GodsPlan #FaithInGod #TrustGod #ChristianLiving #SpiritualGrowth #GodsTiming #FaithJourney #TrustHisPlan #ChristianFaith #GodIsInControl #BiblicalTruth #FaithOverFear #WalkByFaith #GodsPurpose

    Tracking God in Your Life with Laurie Polich Short

  3. Jun 30

    The Power of Sabbath: Rest as a Formative Practice with Dr. Chesarae Fletcher

    In this episode of the Innovative Church Leaders podcast, host Jenni Wong Clayville interviews Dr. Chesarae Fletcher about the importance of Sabbath, rest, and community for women of color and church leaders. They explore practical ways to incorporate Sabbath into daily life, the theological significance of rest, and the power of sisterhood in healing and renewal. They also discuss the anthology: Sabbath with My Sisters an Anthology: Women Reflecting on God’s Rest in a Restless World. 🎬 Video Chapters 0:00 - An Introduction of Dr. Chesarea Fletcher 02:21 - The Birth of Sabbath with My Sisters 05:32 - The Central Invitation of the Book 06:58 - Rest as Formation, Not Escape 10:10 - Practical Steps to Rest 12:25 - The Importance of Communal Rest 17:27 - Personal Significance of Rest 24:29 - The Process of Creating the Anthology 27:11 - Upcoming Rest Retreat 30:30 - Encouragement for Exhausted Listeners 📚 Resources Mentioned: Sabbath with my Sisters Book - https://www.amazon.com/Sabbath-My-Sisters-Anthology-Reflecting/dp/B0GVPVMNF8/ Sabbath Retreats and Resources - https://sabbathwithmysisters.com Win a free copy of Sabbath with My Sisters or share your story with Dr. Chesarea Fletcher at dr.chesaraefletcher@gmail.com Jenni Wong Clayville - https://www.bettertogether.tv/our-guests/jenni-wong-clayville 🚀 Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: ⁠https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org ⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeaders LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders⁠ Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: ⁠https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com⁠ For free resources, sign up for our newsletter here: ⁠https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/⁠ #Sabbath #rest #womenofcolor #spiritualformation #womeninministry #community #healing #leadership #theology #discipleship #renewal #JenniWongClayville #ChesareaFletcher #SistersofSabbath #innovativechurchleaders

    The Power of Sabbath: Rest as a Formative Practice with Dr. Chesarae Fletcher

  4. Jun 23

    Engaging Neurodivergent Kids | RPGs And Discipleship with Dr. Phillip Hash

    In this video, child and adolescent psychiatrist Dr. Philip Hash discusses the importance of creating inclusive church environments. He shares insights on how to embrace neurodiversity. Dr. Hash emphasizes that the desire for relationships and joy is present in everyone, even if the pathways to get there differ. Dr. Hash's work at Valley Church in Ohio highlights the need for church community engagement. By focusing on engaging neurodivergent learners, his ministry uses role-playing games (RPGs) to foster connections. This approach not only aids in personal development but also integrates RPGs and Christian discipleship, offering a unique way to explore faith. The initiative, known as Dragon Games, started with a small group and has expanded internationally. It demonstrates how RPGs and Christian discipleship can be powerful tools for engaging neurodivergent learners. The program encourages participants to discover their stories within God's narrative, promoting church community engagement. Discover how to: Embrace neurodiversity as a normal part of church life. Utilize RPGs to enhance Christian discipleship. Focus on engaging neurodivergent learners through innovative methods. Promote church community engagement by including all members. Practical steps include creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals feel welcome. This involves understanding their unique needs and integrating them into church activities. Summary In this episode, Dr. Philip Hash discusses the importance of embracing neurodiversity within church environments, likening it to accommodating physical disabilities. He shares insights from his ministry at Valley Church, where role-playing games help neurodivergent youth explore their identities and build relationships 🎬 Video Chapters 0:00 Understanding Neurodiversity in Church 3:06 Dr. Philip Hash's Background 6:12 Origins of the Valley Church Ministry 9:18 Role-Playing Games for Therapy 12:24 Expanding the Ministry Globally 15:30 Embracing Neurodiverse Individuals 📚 Resources Mentioned: Dr. Phillip Hash : https://www.joydragon.co/meet-dr-phillip/ Joy Dragon Role Playing Game: https://www.joydragon.co/ Eric Bryant's Website: ⁠https://www.ericbryant.org⁠ 🚀 Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: ⁠https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org ⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders⁠ TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@InnovativeChurchLeaders LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders⁠ Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: ⁠https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com⁠ For free resources, sign up for our newsletter here: ⁠https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/⁠ #InclusiveChurch #NeurodivergentLearners #ChurchCommunity #ChristianDiscipleship #RPGDiscipleship #InclusiveMinistry #ChurchEngagement #NeurodiversityInChurch #AccessibleChurch #SpecialNeedsMinistry #ChurchInclusion #DiscipleshipTools #EngagingLearners #ChurchInnovation #FaithAndLearning

    Engaging Neurodivergent Kids | RPGs And Discipleship with Dr. Phillip Hash

  5. Jun 16

    Stop Chasing Models and Go Back to the Basics with Dr. Maurice Pugh

    In a culture chasing the next big church model, what if the secret to growth is getting back to the basics? After 20+ years of faithful ministry in South Arlington, Dr. Maurice Pugh has seen God double New Life Fellowship's attendance since COVID — adding one new service every year — simply by trusting Jesus with the results. Maurice Pugh and Eric Bryant explore what it looks like to build a thriving, multiplying church on sound doctrine, authentic community, and Spirit-led faithfulness. From micro-group discipleship to city-wide outreach, Maurice shares the rhythms and convictions that are producing real, lasting fruit. This conversation is a timely encouragement for every pastor who is tempted to measure success by size alone. Summary:The church grows when pastors stop striving and start trusting. Maurice shares how returning to Christology, the Trinity, and sound biblical teaching is drawing people into genuine faith. His two-year micro-group discipleship model is on track to multiply 1,500 disciple-makers, and his personal rhythms of rest have sustained him for the long haul. 🎬 Video Chapters00:00 - Celebrating Growth and Resilience in Ministry 03:40 - The Importance of Sound Doctrine 06:31 - Building Community Through Small Groups 09:07 - Maintaining Healthy Rhythms in Ministry 11:59 - Investing in Staff and Leadership Development 14:47 - Serving the Community and Loving Your Neighbor 17:30 - Miraculous Provision and Future Vision 19:59 - Encouragement for Struggling Pastors Conclusion:Whether you're leading a church of 50 or 5,000, Maurice's story is a reminder that Jesus said He would build His church. Your job is faithfulness. Join us and be encouraged to plant, trust, and let God bring the increase. 📚 Resources Mentioned:Maurice Pugh & New Life Fellowship: https://newlifefellowship.orgEric Bryant's Website: https://www.ericbryant.org Leading on Empty by Wayne Cordeiro 🚀 Follow Innovative Church Leaders:Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation.Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.orgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleadersTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleadersYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativechurchleadersLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com For free resources, sign up for our newsletter here: https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/ #ChurchGrowth #ChristianLeadership #Discipleship #ChurchLeadership #PastorLife #SoundDoctrine #MakingDisciples #ChurchMultiplication #MinistryLife #FaithfulMinistry #SmallGroups #ChurchCommunity #PastoralHealth #ChurchRevival #InnovativeChurch

    Stop Chasing Models and Go Back to the Basics with Dr. Maurice Pugh

  6. Jun 9

    The 12 Steps and Spiritual Formation: A Conversation with John Ortberg

    Join us for an insightful conversation where Filipe and Mandy Santos of Echo Church in the Bay Area interview John Ortberg and they explore spiritual formation, the origins of the 12-step program, and its relevance for church leaders today. Discover practical wisdom on character, vulnerability, and leveraging technology in a polarized culture. Spiritual formation is not just about personal growth; it’s about leading others into a transformative relationship with God. John emphasizes that this process is essential for effective church leadership today. In a world filled with polarization and contempt, fostering a community centered on the teachings of Jesus is more crucial than ever. Ortberg notes, "The greatest opportunity ever offered to the human race is life in God's presence with friendship and guidance." Want to join a Steps group for pastors and church leaders? Email us at info@innovativechurchleaders.org. Key Insights: 00:00 - Introduction to John Ortberg 03:24 - The Journey of Faith and Ministry 09:35 - Understanding the 12 Steps and Spiritual Formation 19:53 - The Importance of Character in Leadership 26:06 - Vulnerability and Accountability in Leadership 31:49 - Navigating Technology and Community in the Church Resources Mentioned: Become New with John OrtbergSteps by John OrtbergAndy Crouch's writings on technologyDallas Willard's worksEcho Church in the Bay Area of CAFilipe and Mandy SantosInnovative Church Leaders Newsletter: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InnovativeChurchLeaders TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativechurchleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/ Download the Free Guide: "Why Innovation Matters and Our Innovative God" at https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/ Take our FREE Pastoral Health Checkup: https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com/ Keywords: spiritual formation, 12-step, church leadership, vulnerability, character, technology, culture, discipleship, addiction, community, John Ortberg, Filipe Santos, Mandy Santos, Echo Church, innovative church leaders

    The 12 Steps and Spiritual Formation: A Conversation with John Ortberg

  7. Jun 2

    Speak Jesus | How To Start a House Church with Jesse Reeves

    Are you feeling called to start something new? Discover the transformative journey of how to start a house church and create a community that thrives on faith and fellowship. Starting a house church can be a rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to connect with others on a deeper level. In this video, Jesse Reeves of King's Porch, explores the essential steps and considerations for establishing your own house church. From understanding the core principles to practical church outreach ideas. Jesse Reeves - award-winning songwriter ("Speak Jesus") and worship leader - shares his radical shift from touring with Chris Tomlin to the front lines of a house church movement. After years on staff at Passion City and The Austin Stone, Jesse took a God-ordained "sabbatical" that led him to a startling realization: We have more Christian resources than ever, yet fewer people coming to know Christ. Discover the rhythm of King’s Porch, where the "Jesus Stories" practice turned awkward silence into a culture of evangelism. Jesse breaks down the history of the "clergy-laity divide" and explains why every Christian - from realtors to car salesmen - is called to be a royal priest in their own neighborhood. Learn how a small network of house churches is giving away hundreds of thousands of dollars to global missions by living simply and following the Book of Acts. It’s time to elevate your priesthood! Key Insights: 04:36 – The One-Year Fast: Why Jesse’s wife told him he had to quit church to find Jesus again. 05:34 – Acts 2:42 vs. Modern Metrics: Re-evaluating why we do what we do if it isn't working. 10:58 – A Warning from Francis Chan: "You can't start a church out of bitterness or anger." 11:28 – The Lost Priesthood: How 1 Peter 2:10 changes your 9-to-5 job into a ministry. 15:11 – The Edict of Milan: How Constantine unintentionally stalled the wildfire of the early church. 16:59 – 1 Corinthians 14 Gathering: What happens when everyone brings a word, not just a priest. 18:07 – Jesus Stories: The "awkward" 3-month experiment that birthed a culture of sharing faith. 19:41 – The Origin of "I Speak Jesus": How a house church movement inspired a global worship anthem. 31:15 – Radical Giving: How a church with zero staff salaries gave away nearly $400k to missions. Resources Mentioned: The Forgotten Ways by Alan Hirsch Letters to the Church by Francis Chan We Are Church Training: https://www.wearechurch.com/ King’s Porch Website: https://www.kingsporch.com/ Eric Bryant's Website: https://www.ericbryant.org Innovative Church Leaders Newsletter: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InnovativeChurchLeaders TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativechurchleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/ Download the Free Guide: "Why Innovation Matters and Our Innovative God" at https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org/ Take our FREE Pastoral Health Checkup: https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com/ #HouseChurch #PriesthoodOfTheBeliever #ChurchInnovation #ISpeakJesus #Acts2 #KingdomMovement #OrganicChurch #JesseReeves #InnovativeChurchLeaders #FaithfulPresence

    Speak Jesus | How To Start a House Church with Jesse Reeves

  8. May 26

    Church Outreach Ideas | The Most Effective Ways To Engage A Community with Jeff Brodie

    Discover the most effective ways to engage a community with church outreach ideas. Whether you're part of a small congregation or a large ministry, these strategies will help you connect meaningfully with your community. Join us as we explore innovative approaches that have proven successful in various settings. In this video, Jeff Brodie, the lead pastor of Connexus Church in Toronto shares innovative methods that have inspired many to rethink traditional outreach strategies and embrace new ways of connecting with people. By focusing on authentic relationships and genuine interactions, you can make a lasting impact in your community. Learn how to create an inviting atmosphere that encourages participation and fosters a sense of belonging. Jeff also shares about the remarkably smooth transition to the lead role from the founding pastor, Carey Nieuwhof. Utilize social media platforms to reach a broader audience.Host community events that cater to diverse interests. Encourage volunteerism to foster a sense of purpose and belonging. Develop small groups to build deeper connections. By implementing the most effective ways to engage a community, your church can become a beacon of hope and support. These strategies not only enhance community involvement but also strengthen the bonds within your congregation. Summary:"So it's community, then encountering God in an accessible way. I think in the attractional days, we were so worried about the weird that we pushed away from the weird to the point we lost the wonder of it all. The wonder disappeared and we got so focused on the imminent that we missed the transcendent." 🎬 Video Chapters 0:00 - Community and Encounter Focus 4:15 - Rise of Spiritual Curiosity 8:30 - Navigating Cultural Polarization 12:45 - Post-Christian to Pre-Christian Transition 17:00 - Generational Curiosity and Engagement 21:15 - Timeless Truth and Community Needs 25:30 - Innovative Church Practices Post-Pandemic 29:45 - From Attractional to Invitational Church Conclusion Embrace these church outreach ideas to transform your community engagement. Start today and witness the positive changes in your church and beyond. Resources Mentioned: Connexus Church Website: https://connexuschurch.com/ Eric Bryant’s Website: https://www.ericbryant.org Innovative Church Leaders Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org Follow Innovative Church Leaders: Helping pastors experience and bring renewal through Spirit-led innovation. Website: https://www.innovativechurchleaders.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativechurchleaders TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@innovativechurchleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovativechurchleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovative-church-leaders/ Take the Free Pastoral Health Checkup: https://pastoral-health.scoreapp.com For free resources, sign up our newsletter here: https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/ #ChurchOutreach #CommunityEngagement #EffectiveOutreach #ChurchGrowth #CommunityBuilding #EngagementTips #ChurchLeadership #OutreachIdeas #CommunityImpact #CareyNieuwhof #ConnexusChurch #MinistryTips #ChurchCommunity #EngageYourCommunity #OutreachStrategy

    Church Outreach Ideas | The Most Effective Ways To Engage A Community with Jeff Brodie
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Innovative Church Leaders helps pastors experience and bring renewal to their mission field. Discover how to bring Spirit-led innovation, reach new people, and make disciples who make disciples. Sign up for our free email newsletter at https://innovativechurchleaders.org/join-us/ to win free resources including books, access to conferences, and access to cohorts, workshops, and coaching!

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