HeavenEarth Church

HeavenEarth Church
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Christianity
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HeavenEarth Church exists to make a lasting impact in our community (Whiteland, Indiana) by building relationships with all kinds of neighbors; by working in the community and with individuals to help people experience freedom from their burdens; and helping people know and live like Jesus togethers. We do all this so that our community is transformed for generations to come.

  1. 6d ago

    HeavenEarth Conversations: Evan Fruits

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. https://heavenearthchurch.org/ This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser Show Notes:HeavenEarth Church Podcast https://heavenearthchurch.org/ Guest: Evan Fruits Host: Dr. Brad Miller In this episode, Dr. Brad Miller welcomes Evan Fruits, a founding member and board participant at Heaven and Earth Church in Whiteland, Indiana. The conversation offers listeners an inside look at the church’s history, foundational values, and community impact, all woven together through Evan Fruits’s personal journey and unique perspective. Whether you’re exploring faith communities or simply curious about what makes Heaven and Earth Church distinctive, this episode provides honest, firsthand insights. Episode SummaryThe episode begins with a brief introduction to Heaven and Earth Church, contextualizing its mission to create lasting community impact. Evan Fruits shares how he became involved during the church’s earliest days, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that led a small group, meeting in a living room, to grow into a vibrant congregation. The discussion moves into Evan Fruits's personal history—growing up in Whiteland, his family, career, and the importance of local ties. As a financial planner and father of two, Evan Fruits offers a real-world perspective on balancing demanding careers, raising young children, and maintaining close family connections. A significant portion of the episode dives into the unique leadership style and values at Heaven and Earth Church. Evan Fruits describes open, honest, and even at times challenging conversations that take place among the board and leadership, ensuring decisions are both collaborative and accountable. The episode highlights the church’s nontraditional approach to finances, partnerships, and worship—underscoring a commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and practical community service, especially through initiatives like Restoration Way, a weekly event addressing mental health and dependency. Top 3 Takeaway Points1. Radical Community and BelongingA central theme is the church’s dedication to genuine community. At Heaven and Earth Church, everyone is noticed and valued, regardless of background or beliefs. The congregation strives to ensure that anyone attending—whether lifelong local or newcomer—feels seen and welcomed. As Evan Fruits describes, “Even if you don’t necessarily believe in all the things that you’re supposed to believe in as a Christian, you’re welcome here and you have a community” 10:12. 2. Collaborative & Transparent LeadershipHeaven and Earth Church is characterized by a collaborative culture where honest debate is encouraged. Board and staff make decisions together, openly sharing information—especially regarding finances and key opportunities. Pushback is welcomed, and transparency is the norm, contributing to a sense of trust and stability within the community 13:13. This ensures that no single voice dominates and that the church can pursue its vision with integrity and practical accountability. 3. Making a Lasting Impact Through PartnershipsThe church’s focus on partnership and community service is exemplified by initiatives like affordable housing through their nonprofit arm and offering space to organizations such as Resources for Hope. These partnerships extend the church’s reach beyond Sunday worship, actively addressing tangible needs in the broader community and cementing their commitment to serving others 19:08. Listen and Learn MoreTune in for an inspiring, transparent conversation about what it means to build a church centered on acceptance, collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. For more information, visit heavenearthchurch.org or consider joining an upcoming Sunday service or Wednesday’s Restoration Way event.

  2. Sep 27

    Sunday Conversation: Where's Jesus: "Recovering the Beauty and Power of Born Again"

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser Message SummaryHeavenEarth Pastor Ross Stackhouse, and guest Amanda Ott lead a community-centered conversation exploring everything from affordable housing in Johnson County to the deeper meaning behind the phrase “born again.” The episode weaves together practical challenges facing local families, the role of the church in social issues, and powerful reflections on spiritual transformation. After welcoming the audience, Ross Stackhouse outlines the five core values of HeavenEarth Church—meeting people where they are, focusing on Jesus, experiential learning, blessing the community through partnerships, and responsible stewardship—which frame the day’s discussion 00:40. Emphasizing the church’s commitment to community impact through partnerships, Ross and Amanda dive into the pressing issue of housing insecurity, revealing the practical and personal obstacles many neighbors face, even those with steady employment 03:15. Ross Stackhouse and Amanda Ott share the story of “Spaces for All,” a nonprofit launched by the church to provide affordable housing and break down barriers to secure leases. Amanda explains the successful subleasing program that helps residents build rental history and eventually transition into stable housing, underlining the organization’s growing demand and transformative impact 07:25. The discussion then transitions into spiritual territory, where Ross Stackhouse invites the congregation to share their candid reactions to the term “born again,” highlighting both positive and negative associations 12:22. Through open dialogue, the group explores how baptism and spiritual rebirth should be seen not as an endpoint, but as a starting point for lifelong growth 21:36. Drawing inspiration from the dramatic transformation of Saul (Paul) in the New Testament, the episode calls listeners to embrace the ongoing and communal journey of growing up in faith. Three Key Takeaways1. Affordable Housing is a Community-Wide ChallengeThrough Amanda’s firsthand experiences and local data, the conversation brings to light the stark reality: many working individuals in Johnson County simply cannot afford safe, stable housing. The wage gap and lack of affordable inventory place significant strains on families, forcing impossible choices between essentials like medication, food, and shelter 03:15–05:18. “Spaces for All” combats this by directly intervening with innovative subleasing programs and community partnerships, offering both immediate relief and long-term hope. 2. Spiritual Growth is a Lifelong Process, Not a One-Time EventThe episode reframes “being born again” as the beginning of a journey, not a spiritual finish line. Drawing parallels to childhood development, Ross Stackhouse emphasizes that baptism and conversion are departures into a new life, not arrivals. Real transformation—like that seen in Paul—unfolds in ordinary moments, community support, and consistent openness to growth 22:05–34:18. 3. Transformation is Possible for Everyone—and It Happens TogetherThrough examples ranging from biblical narrative to the church’s own values and programs, the episode champions the possibility of radical change for every individual. Whether change comes as a sudden awakening or a gradual process, the podcast encourages listeners to “reclaim the beauty and power of being born again,” continually growing and maturing with humility, hope, and community 35:20–44:59. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about faith in action, social justice, and the real, messy, and hopeful work of transformation—both personal and communal.

  3. Sep 20

    Sunday Conversation: Where's Jesus: "The Beginning, The End and The Middle"

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. HeavenEarthChurch.org This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser https://heavenearthchurch.org/ Show NotesEpisode OverviewIn this honest and transformative episode, Ross shares the story of how his church came to be named Heaven Earth, digging into foundational questions of faith, judgment, and salvation. Through personal reflection and open conversation, the community navigates the complex terrain of Christian judgment, seeking a richer, more authentic understanding rooted in grace, restoration, and the vision of “new creation.” Three Takeaways1. Judgment Is About Bringing Everything into the Light—Not CondemnationMuch of the episode is devoted to reimagining the concept of judgment. Ross emphasizes that judgment, in the biblical sense, is less about condemnation and more about exposing all things to God’s light, where evil is addressed and good is revealed 32:15. The community notes how negative church experiences and cultural preconceptions can make “judgment” feel ominous or shameful, but in God’s purpose, it is a means for restoration, justice, and the making of all things new 37:01. 2. Salvation Is a Cosmic, Restorative Event—Not Just Individual RescueRoss challenges the common, transactional view of salvation as simply sorting people into heaven or hell. Instead, he draws on scriptural themes to show that salvation is God’s movement to bring heaven to earth: restoring all creation and making everything new, including individuals and the wider world 26:01. This up-down vision changes how we live “in the middle”—shifting the focus from personal escape to joining in God’s restorative work here and now 22:05. 3. Grace and Accountability Are Held Together in God’s HandsWhile the conversation acknowledges the reality of sin, personal failings, and the need for accountability (“How did you treat the least of these?” 33:21), Ross stresses that none of us can “earn” restoration through works alone—grace is at the center. Ultimate justice and mercy are not human tasks, but God’s 37:08. This frees us to love others, let go of condemnation, and trust God with the mysteries we cannot solve 45:32. Final ThoughtsThis episode invites listeners to rethink what judgment and salvation really mean, urging a move beyond fear and shame toward a faith marked by honest light, restorative grace, and hopeful participation in God’s new creation.

  4. Sep 13

    Sunday Conversation: Wheres's Jesus:"Faith Alone Will Not Save Us"

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser Show NotesEpisode OverviewThe conversation focused on how historical perspectives and beliefs shape contemporary experiences of Christianity, with a strong emphasis on the interconnectedness of faith, personal growth, and restorative practices. Through an exploration of pivotal moments in church history, personal stories, and reflective dialogue, the discussion explored the impact of past doctrines on present-day faith and community engagement. Three Key Takeaways1. History Deeply Shapes Contemporary FaithOne concept discussed was the strong influence of church history on how Christianity is lived and understood today. The episode illustrated this with an interactive exercise, using volunteers positioned to represent different eras in church history—from the time before Jesus, through the Reformation, to the present day 01:38. A key theme that emerged was that much of what shapes current Christian practice actually stems from key events and shifts that took place centuries ago, particularly during the Reformation with leaders like Martin Luther 10:17. Recognizing these historical influences helps listeners better understand why certain doctrines, such as “saved by faith alone,” are so prevalent today. 2. The Faith and Works Debate Is Both Old and OngoingThe discussion explored the roots and modern impact of the tension between “faith alone” and the necessity of works. Several points were raised, including Martin Luther’s pushback against the Catholic practice of indulgences and his overcorrection toward “faith alone,” as well as his disdain for the Book of James for its emphasis on faith demonstrated through action 16:09. A key insight was that, originally, these concepts were not separated—faith was always understood as something lived out through love and care for others 20:03. The episode challenged listeners to move beyond a reductionist view and to consider that genuine faith must express itself through loving action. 3. A Growth Mindset and Restorative FaithThe importance of embracing a growth mindset was highlighted through personal stories about learning from past mistakes and the ongoing journey of faith 25:13. Listeners were encouraged to integrate failure as a means for spiritual and personal maturity, rather than allowing it to fragment their identity 27:41. Communion was presented as a restorative act, echoing Jesus’s inclusive table and the bigger vision of salvation as the restoration of all things and people 28:52. The episode concluded by emphasizing the call to restorative, inclusive love in both personal and community spheres. Reflection Question: How do your beliefs about the past and future shape how you act today? Everyone is welcome at the table—faith, questions, doubts, and all.

  5. Sep 7 ·  Bonus

    At the Table for All: Ross Stackhouse Advocates Full LGBTQ Inclusion in Church

    Welcome to a special bonus episode of the HeavenEarth Church Podcast.HeavenEarth Church Website In this compelling episode of HeavenEarth Church Pastor Ross Stackhouse, opens up about his personal journey of growth, faith, and transformation regarding LGBTQ inclusion within the Christian community. Raised in a rural environment with rigid biblical interpretations, Ross Stackhouse candidly recounts how his understanding evolved as he encountered new environments and people, prompting deep spiritual and personal change. Beginning with memories of moving to graduate school, Ross Stackhouse describes feeling shocked by the presence of openly LGBTQ students in faith spaces 00:33. Initially, his prayers were more about reinforcing his previous convictions than seeking understanding 00:55, but over time, meaningful interactions with LGBTQ Christians stirred his curiosity and humility. He expresses regret over how long it took to develop a more inclusive outlook 01:12, emphasizing his grief for prior hesitation. A pivotal moment came when a close friend's sister vulnerably asked Ross Stackhouse if her identity meant she was destined for hell 02:04. Encounters like these, coupled with continued friendships and relentless prayer for guidance, challenged and reshaped his theology and his view of scripture 02:25. Drawing on biblical narratives, Ross Stackhouse illuminates parallels between the church’s historic boundaries and the radical inclusivity modeled by Jesus. He references Acts 10 and John 4, comparing the exclusion of Gentiles and Samaritans to the marginalization faced by LGBTQ people today 03:43–06:09. Ultimately, Ross Stackhouse declares his conviction that the Christian movement must affirm and fully include all people, especially those who have felt like outsiders 06:13. Key TakeawaysHumility and Curiosity Transform FaithRoss Stackhouse emphasizes how genuine curiosity and humble prayer can lead to profound personal and theological change 00:51, moving beyond entrenched beliefs to empathetic understanding.Powerful Encounters Drive GrowthMeaningful relationships and conversations with LGBTQ Christians—especially vulnerable moments—challenge assumptions and provide a pathway for compassion and reevaluation 02:04.Scriptural Precedent for Radical InclusionReferencing stories of Gentiles and Samaritans, Ross Stackhouse argues convincingly that full inclusion is consistent with Jesus’s ministry and the early Christian movement 03:43–06:09.Overcoming Fear of RejectionHe acknowledges his own fears about being labeled a heretic or losing acceptance but ultimately prioritizes love, belonging, and Jesus’s example over concern for critics 06:26.A Church Built for OutsidersRoss Stackhouse concludes by reaffirming a vision for a church that centers those who feel like outsiders, striving to create a community where everyone truly belongs 07:15. This episode is a heartfelt, thought-provoking exploration of inclusion, spiritual growth, and what it means to enact the radically welcoming spirit of Jesus in today’s church. ========== The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. HeavenEarth Church Website This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser

  6. Sep 7

    HeavenEarth Conversations: Mandy Rosenkrans

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser

  7. Sep 7

    Sunday Conversation: Where's Jesus 5: Letting Go of the God's of Christianity

    Show Notes: "Letting Go of the Gods of Christianity"In this soul-searching episode of the HeavenEarth Church podcast, founding pastor Ross Stackhouse welcomes listeners to Heaven Earth Church—a space intentionally created for those who don’t fit neatly into religion’s boxes. Ross Stackhouse dives deep into the heart of personal faith, collective spirituality, and what it means to confront our inner struggles and long-held beliefs. Dr Brad Miller introduces the signature Sunday Morning Conversations, highlighting how the church seeks to meet people where they are, and sets the stage for the main message: “Letting Go of the Gods of Christianity.” Throughout the episode, Ross Stackhouse shares stories of transformation and renewal within the Heaven Earth Church community. From the historical cast-iron bell that now serves as a “Sobriety Bell” for women completing their recovery program to the multiple organizations finding hope in the church’s spaces, listeners hear firsthand how new life is being breathed into a place filled with legacy. Central to the message is the challenge to turn toward, rather than away from, difficult emotions and core fears. Using an engaging live illustration, Ross Stackhouse explores the interconnectedness of loving God, neighbor, and self. He shares how avoidance—whether by workaholism, numbness, or rigid religious systems—can fragment us and keep us from authentic relationship with God and others. On a communal level, Ross Stackhouse candidly addresses how religious institutions can inadvertently (or intentionally) build systems of control that avoid vulnerability. He unpacks the ways doctrine can become dogma, the dangers of unquestionable authority, exclusionary practices, and how fear is often the root of these dynamics. The episode wraps with Ross Stackhouse's vulnerable testimony about his journey toward full inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ people, drawing on biblical insights, personal relationships, and a commitment to humility and curiosity. Takeaway PointsTurn Toward Yourself and God: Facing difficult feelings with honesty is essential for spiritual and personal wholeness. Avoidance leads to fragmentation.Faith Is an Inside Job: True transformation starts from within, not from outward performance or rigid rule-following.Institutional Religion Can Perpetuate Fear: Systems of control within churches often reflect avoidance of vulnerability and can cause harm if left unexamined.Curiosity Over Certainty: Embracing mystery and being open to learning from those different from us is central to the way of Jesus.Radical Inclusion Mirrors Jesus: The call to create a table where all belong, especially those on the margins, is woven throughout Jesus’s ministry—and should be in ours, too. Find out more or join the conversation at heavenearthchurch.org.The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser

  8. Aug 31

    Sunday Conversation: Wherever Jesus Went...This Happened.

    The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church. This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together. You can help the HeavenEarth Church Podcast share and amplify this conversation by: Following or subscribing to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Give a five star rating to the HeavenEarth Church Podcast,Writing a review about your HeavenEarth Church Podcast Experience. Please follow, rate and review at the following channels: Apple Podcasts Spotify Podchaser

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About

HeavenEarth Church exists to make a lasting impact in our community (Whiteland, Indiana) by building relationships with all kinds of neighbors; by working in the community and with individuals to help people experience freedom from their burdens; and helping people know and live like Jesus togethers. We do all this so that our community is transformed for generations to come.

Information

  • Creator
    HeavenEarth Church
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    117
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 HeavenEarth Church
  • Show Website
    HeavenEarth Church