Lausanne Movement

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2D AGO

The Hidden Gap in Christian Leadership: Knowing Christ vs Becoming Like Christ | Herman Moldez

Why do so many leaders know Christ deeply—yet struggle to become like him? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Herman Moldez about the often-overlooked gap between knowing Christ and becoming like him. Drawing from decades of ministry experience, Herman explores how true Christlike leadership is formed not just through knowledge and skill, but through deep inner transformation, humility, and intentional mentoring relationships. Main Points There is a gap between knowing and becoming. Many leaders are well-trained in Scripture but struggle to embody Christlike character because inner formation is neglected. The journey from head to heart takes time. Transformation is not automatic—what we know does not easily translate into how we live. Christlike leadership is formed in hidden places. Leaders are shaped not on the front stage, but in humility, anonymity, and faithful service. Culture often shapes leaders more than Christ. Without intentional formation, churches can produce leaders driven by success, power, or influence rather than Christlike humility. Mentoring must focus on the heart. Transformation happens through trusted relationships that ask honest, value-driven questions about motives and inner life. Leaders need deep, honest friendships. Beyond networking, leaders must cultivate “heart-to-heart” relationships where they can be known, process pain, and grow in Christlikeness. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast and share it with a leader or mentor in your life. We’d also love for you to join the conversation in the Lausanne Movement Podcast space on the Lausanne Action Hub, where you can share your thoughts and engage with our global community—and please consider leaving a rating or review so others can discover the podcast too. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive https://lausanne.org/podcast/the-making-of-a-leader-how-god-forms-character-calling-and-influence-over-a-lifetime-with-richard-clinton https://lausanne.org/podcast/the-art-of-whole-life-mentorship-an-interview-with-ole-magnus-olasfrud https://lausanne.org/podcast/delphine-fanfon-on-leading-with-vulnerability-and-humility-lessons-from-the-african-church-reaching-the-next-generation-cultivating-identity-and-purpose-in-christ-and-moving-forward-from-failure Links & Resources MentorLink International — https://mentorlink.org/ IFES (International Fellowship of Evangelical Students) — https://ifesworld.org Asian Access - https://www.a3leaders.org/ Lausanne Podcast Action Hub - https://collaborate.lausanne.org/share/FF0jv_MJcqEcpuoK?utm_source=manual Guest Bio Pastor Herman A. Moldez Served with IVCF Philippines (IFES) for 25 years, discipling and mentoring students, and 3 terms as General Secretary. In 2003, he started the ministry of mentoring pastors and Christian leaders with MentorLink International where is part of the Global Leadership Team and in 2017 started A3 (formerly Asian Access) Philippines where peer mentoring is integrated in the two-year training of 16-18 trainees per cohort. He is also the Senior Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Quezon City, Philippines. Aside from mentoring pastors, Pastor Herman and his wife, Mercy Moldez, former Staff Training Directress of IVCF Philippines, facilitate spiritual retreats for pastors and Christian leaders.

2d ago

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53 min
APR 28

Why Christian Leaders Fall—and What It Takes to Finish Well with Malcolm Webber

Why do gifted Christian leaders fall—and what kind of formation helps us finish well? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Malcolm Webber about why so many Christian leaders fall—and why the answer is not simply better information, stronger gifting, or more ministry activity. Malcolm invites us back to Jesus’ way of forming leaders through union with Christ, accountable community, tested character, God-given calling, and Spirit-shaped competencies. Main Points Leadership failure is often a formation crisis. Malcolm argues that many leaders fall because the deep issues of their lives were never addressed. Jesus shows us how leaders are formed. Jesus developed leaders through relationships, teaching, assignments, pressure, failure, and mission. Union with Christ comes first. Healthy leadership begins with abiding dependence on Jesus, not gifting, platform, productivity, or ambition. Leaders need an accountable community. Spiritual mothers and fathers, mentors, correction, nurture, and encouragement are essential for finishing well. The 5Cs offer a framework for healthy leadership. Christ, community, character, calling, and competencies help leaders pursue holistic growth. Finishing well requires intentional rhythms. Malcolm urges leaders to pursue personal growth, choose real accountability, practice spiritual rest, and receive wisdom from previous generations. Call to Action Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a pastor, ministry leader, mentor, or younger leader who is seeking to lead from a healthier place. Then take one practical step this week: name a spiritual mother, father, mentor, or trusted friend who can walk with you in honest accountability. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive The Making of a Leader: How God Forms Character, Calling, and Influence Over a Lifetime with Richard Clinton The Art of Whole Life Mentorship: An Interview with Ole-Magnus Olasfrud Leading with Vulnerability & Humility: Delphine Fanfon on African Leadership, Identity, and Purpose Links & Resources LeaderSource The 5Cs of Healthy Christian Leadership LeaderSource Resources LeaderSource Books 5C Checkpoint LeaderSource App LeaderSource YouTube Channel Malcolm’s Musings on Substack Lausanne Action Hub Guest Bio Malcolm Webber is the founder and executive director of LeaderSource, an international ministry focused on developing healthy Christian leaders and strengthening churches around the world. Originally from Australia, Malcolm came to Christ in 1980 and has spent more than 35 years working alongside Christian leaders globally, with a particular focus on Christ-centered, holistic leader development. He holds a PhD in organizational leadership, has written around 50 books, and is also the Founding Pastor Emeritus of Living Faith Fellowship in Indiana, USA. Through LeaderSource, his writing, teaching, and resources, Malcolm continues to equip leaders to grow in union with Christ, accountable community, character, calling, and practical leadership capacity.

Apr 28

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1h 2m
MAY 4

80. Resilience in Madagascar: A Quest for Transformation

What happens when a nation rich in beauty and resources is held back by spiritual syncretism, crushing poverty, and foreign interests—and Christians still refuse to give up? In this episode of God on the Move, Mahafahatra Vonintsoa shares how Madagascar’s traditions of ancestor worship and zebu sacrifice shape gospel conversations, why discipleship is urgently needed as many mix Christianity with traditional beliefs, and how the 2009 political coup coincided with her being born again and reshaped her view of development as starting with restored people. She also opens up about failed efforts like a stalled solar project, the eye-opening impact of medical missions to remote communities, and the “Sisterhood of Seven Women” dreaming of practical, holistic education initiatives for girls—inviting collaborators, volunteers, and support, and asking for prayer for spiritual strength and a way forward for Madagascar. 🧑‍💻 About Mahafahatra Mahafahatra Vonintsoa is a Malagasy professional passionate about transformational development in Madagascar. Raised in a humble family from the Amoron’i Mania and Haute Matsiatra regions, she was inspired early on to contribute to her country’s growth through education and service. After studying business administration, marketing, and international management, she gained diverse experience across sectors including investment promotion, project development, and sustainable development, as well as missionary work. Since giving her life to Christ in 2009, Mahafahatra’s vision for development has been deeply shaped by her faith. She believes that lasting transformation in Madagascar begins with restored identity in Christ, leading to renewed relationships with God, others, and the environment. Today, she serves as an Operations and Sustainability Manager for a medical mission NGO, while actively investing in student ministry and mentoring young people. Through her work and community engagement, she is committed to empowering the next generation and contributing to meaningful, faith-driven change in Madagascar. 🔗 Join the God on the Move Community on the Lausanne Action Hub and be part of the conversation, see exclusive content and share your own testimony.

May 4

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45 min
MAR 30

The Making of a Leader: How God Forms Character, Calling, and Influence Over a Lifetime with Richard Clinton

What if the most important work God is doing in your leadership right now is not through you, but in you? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Dr. Richard Clinton about how God develops leaders over time through formation, testing, experience, and response. Drawing on leadership emergence theory and decades of ministry experience, Richard explains why the years between ages 25 and 35 are especially significant for character formation, mentoring, and learning to lead for the long haul. Main Points Leadership is both shaped by God and developed over time; it does not appear fully formed overnight. God is often more concerned with who a leader is becoming than with what that leader is accomplishing. The 25–35 stage is often a crucial season of inner life growth and ministry maturing. Four core character foundations for emerging leaders are integrity, obedience, humility, and faith. God uses tests and checks throughout a leader’s life to strengthen character and response. Mentors are essential for helping leaders navigate difficult seasons, avoid burnout, and finish well. Two stabilizing truths for every leader: God is with you and God wants to help you. Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with an emerging leader or mentor who needs encouragement for the long journey of leadership. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive Here are the top three related episodes I found from the Lausanne Movement Podcast archive: The Art of Whole Life Mentorship: An Interview with Ole-Magnus Olafsrud - https://lausanne.org/podcast/the-art-of-whole-life-mentorship-an-interview-with-ole-magnus-olasfrud Discipling Future Leaders for Global Mission: Nana Yaw Offei Awuku on Building Generational Impact & YLG 2026 - https://lausanne.org/podcast/discipling-future-leaders-for-global-mission-nana-yaw-offei-awuku-on-building-generational-impact-ylg-2026 Links & Resources Clinton Leadership 2.0 — Richard Clinton’s website, which exists to continue the work of J. Robert Clinton and Richard Clinton by helping leaders finish well. The Making of a Leader by J. Robert Clinton — the foundational book behind much of the conversation on leadership emergence and lifelong formation. Connecting by Paul D. Stanley and J. Robert Clinton — a mentoring resource Richard specifically recommends in the interview. Courses from Clinton Leadership 2.0 — Richard mentions courses and leadership development tools available through the Clinton Leadership site. Leadership coaching with Richard Clinton — coaching resources for leaders seeking help understanding their development journey. “The Emerging Leader” article by J. Robert Clinton — a useful complementary resource on early leadership development. Richard Clinton Bio Dr. Richard Clinton is a leadership mentor, pastor, and co-founder of the Clinton Leadership Network, dedicated to helping leaders understand how God develops their calling, character, and influence over a lifetime. Building on the groundbreaking research of his father, Dr. J. Robert Clinton, Richard has spent more than four decades studying, teaching, and coaching leaders around the world. He has served in a wide range of ministry roles—including church planter, pastor, professor, consultant, and leadership trainer—and has worked with leaders across cultures and contexts globally. Richard also continues to steward and expand the leadership development insights behind The Making of a Leader, equipping emerging and seasoned leaders to grow in character and finish well. Richard continues to mentor leaders, teach on leadership formation, and provide resources through Clinton Leadership 2.0, helping a new generation discern how God is shaping their lives and leadership for long-term impact.

Mar 30

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54 min
JAN 19

Tim Keller on Why Cities Matter and How to Reach Them | Cape Town 2010

As cities continue to shape the future of culture, influence, and innovation, what does faithful gospel witness look like in an increasingly urban world? In this Lausanne Movement Podcast archive episode, we revisit two landmark talks by Tim Keller from the Third Lausanne Congress in Cape Town 2010. Keller first unpacks why cities matter so deeply for God’s mission, then offers a practical and theological framework for how the church can faithfully engage and reach them. Key Takeaways Why cities matter for mission: Cities are cultural, economic, and spiritual centers where global influence is formed. God’s heart for people: In cities, there is ‘more image of God per square inch than anywhere else in the world’. The church must follow the people: Urbanisation is accelerating faster than the church’s presence. Contextualised churches are essential: Effective urban ministry requires cultural sensitivity, patience, and adaptability. Faith and vocation must connect: Urban discipleship integrates faith with everyday work and public life. From churches to movements: Lasting impact comes through cooperation, prayer, justice, evangelism, and citywide gospel movements. Hope grounded in the gospel: Christ’s righteousness empowers believers to serve, pray for, and sacrificially love their cities. Call to Action If this episode encouraged or challenged you: Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast for more voices shaping global mission. Share this episode with church leaders, planters, and those passionate about cities. Explore Lausanne’s resources on cities, church planting, and urban mission at lausanne.org. About This Episode This episode is part of the Lausanne Movement Archive, featuring historic messages from key moments in the global mission movement. These two talks were originally delivered by Tim Keller at the Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization in Cape Town (2010). Links & Resources Third Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization (Cape Town 2010) https://lausanne.org/cape-town-2010-the-third-lausanne-congress-on-world-evangelization Lausanne Issue Networks: Cities - https://lausanne.org/network/cities Church Planting - https://lausanne.org/network/church-planting Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive https://lausanne.org/podcast-series/lausanne-movement Tim Keller Bio: Timothy Keller (1950–2023) was the founding pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in New York City and a widely influential pastor, theologian, and author. Alongside his wife Kathy, he helped plant Redeemer in 1989 and later co-founded Redeemer City to City, which has supported the planting of more than 1,000 churches in over 150 cities worldwide. Keller authored 31 books, including The Reason for God, The Prodigal God, and The Meaning of Marriage.

Jan 19

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34 min
APR 13

Faithfulness and Mission in a Least-Reached Nation: Lessons from Japan with Miho Buchholtz

What does it look like to lead in one of the least-reached nations on earth? In this episode, Jason Watson speaks with Miho Buchholtz about following Jesus and serving the church in Japan, where Christians make up a very small minority and ministry often requires deep patience, humility, and long-term faithfulness. Miho reflects on her own story of depression and healing, the spiritual and cultural realities of Japan, the challenges of church planting in a secular context, and the quiet, resilient leadership needed to serve well in a place where visible fruit can come slowly. 🔗 Link to the Lausanne Podcast Community: https://collaborate.lausanne.org/share/FF0jv_MJcqEcpuoK?utm_source=manual Main Points Miho shares how Jesus met her in a season of depression and gave her hope when her future felt closed off. In Japan, many people carry hidden pain beneath outward stability, making grace and authenticity essential in the life of the church. Gospel witness in Japan often grows through trust, patient relationships, and everyday faithfulness rather than quick results. Ministering in your own culture can require relearning how to communicate, listen, and serve with humility. Tokyo Life Church reflects a beautiful picture of mission from everywhere to everywhere, with Japanese and international believers serving together in one city. Co-leading in ministry as a married couple can be deeply fruitful, but it also demands repentance, honesty, and the willingness to seek outside help when needed. Faithful leadership in a least-reached context is often quiet, sacrificial, and marked more by endurance than visibility. Younger leaders should pursue clarity of calling while remaining faithful in the local ministry God has already placed before them. Call to Action If this episode encouraged you, subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and share this conversation with a ministry leader, church planter, or friend serving in a difficult context. Join us in praying for the church in Japan—that God would raise up faithful leaders, strengthen collaboration, and open new doors for the gospel. Lausanne Movement Podcast Archive Here are three related episodes from the Lausanne Movement Podcast archive that connect closely with this conversation: Missional Insights from East Asia: Seth Kim on Mobilizing the Next Generation, Contextualisation, and Uniting the Church for Global Mission — Seth Kim explores how churches in East Asia are reaching their cultures and nations through contextualized mission, leadership development, youth mobilization, and collaboration. Why Mental Health Matters for the Church and Global Mission with Gladys Mwiti — Dr. Gladys Mwiti explains why mental health, trauma care, burnout, and emotional health are not side issues, but central to the church’s witness and sustainable ministry. Least Reached Peoples: How the Gospel Restores Dignity and Transforms Communities with Dr. Mary Ho & Lisa — This episode looks at ministry among the least reached, highlighting dignity, transformation, and the ways ordinary believers can participate in God’s mission among those with little access to the gospel. Links & Resources Tokyo Life Church — Miho and Grant Buchholtz’s bilingual church in Tokyo. Lausanne Diasporas Network — Miho mentions her involvement in Lausanne’s diaspora work and the importance of collaboration between Japanese and internationals in mission. Lausanne Issue Networks — Referenced in the conversation as a place where younger leaders can better understand the needs and opportunities facing global mission today. Younger Leaders Gathering (YLG) — Mentioned in the episode as a catalytic space for younger leaders to discern calling and grow in mission. Frederick Buechner, Wishful Thinking — Miho references Buechner’s well-known idea that calling is found where deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet. Scripture references mentioned in the episode: 1 Peter 5:10, Psalm 23, and John 14:6. 🔗 Link to the Lausanne Podcast Community: https://collaborate.lausanne.org/share/FF0jv_MJcqEcpuoK?utm_source=manual Bio: Miho was born and raised in Yokohama. She became a Christian through depression she suffered in high school. Though she earned a business degree in college and has worked in the fashion industry, God completely reoriented her life to pursue full time ministry. She received her Master of Divinity degree from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and has been serving in her home country as a missionary with her family. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago. She is ordained in the Evangelical Covenant Church. She is currently serving as the Chair of the Japan Lausanne Committee. She is also an adjunct professor of ministry at Tokyo Christian University. She also serves as a Vision Time preacher on CGN Japan. Miho loves teaching the Bible and seeing people utilize their gifts to take part in God’s mission. She enjoys getting inspiration while taking a walk, drinking coffee, traveling to new places, and seeing her two daughters grow.

Apr 13

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49 min
MAR 16

Why Mental Health Matters for the Church and Global Mission with Dr. Gladys Mwiti

Mental health challenges affect millions of people around the world—but what if caring for the mind and emotions is not just a pastoral concern, but a critical part of the church’s mission? Summary In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson speaks with Dr. Gladys Mwiti, a Kenyan clinical psychologist, trauma specialist, and founder of Oasis Africa Wellness. Drawing from over three decades of ministry and counseling experience, Dr. Mwiti explains why mental health care is essential to God’s mission of restoring the whole person. The conversation explores how addressing trauma, burnout, and emotional health strengthens evangelism, discipleship, and Christlike leadership in the global church. Main Points Mental health is central to holistic mission. The gospel addresses the whole person—spiritual, emotional, relational, and social healing. The global church faces a growing mental health crisis. Mental health disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide. Ignoring mental health weakens the church’s witness. Trauma, anxiety, and depression affect families, communities, and ministry leaders. Pastors and ministry leaders often carry hidden burdens. Many leaders experience stress, burnout, and isolation while caring for others. Burnout develops gradually. Warning signs include emotional fatigue, decreased motivation, cynicism, and social withdrawal. Young leaders face increasing pressure. Social comparison, high expectations, and limited mentorship contribute to rising anxiety. Healthy leadership begins with inner health. Emotionally healthy leaders are better equipped to demonstrate humility, wisdom, and compassion. Sustainable ministry requires intentional rhythms. Rest, Sabbath practices, journaling, peer accountability, and counseling help leaders finish well. The church can respond through community care. Congregations can train members to provide basic support and referrals through collaborative mental health ministries. Links & Resources Oasis Africa Wellness - https://www.oasisafricawellness.co.ke Connect with Dr. Gladys Mwiti LinkedIn: Oasis Africa Wellness Email: glmwiti@oasisafrica.co.ke Admin contact: admin@oasisafrica.co.ke Lausanne Articles by Dr. Gladys Mwiti Turning the Church’s Attention to Mental Health - https://lausanne.org/global-analysis/turning-the-churchs-attention-to-mental-health Task Shifting for Mental Health and Trauma: Implications for the Global Church- https://lausanne.org/gathering/task-shifting-for-mental-health-and-trauma-implications-for-the-global-church Guest Bio Dr. Gladys Mwiti is a Kenyan clinical psychologist, trauma specialist, and founder and CEO of Oasis Africa Center for Transformational Psychology and Trauma in Nairobi. With more than three decades of experience, she has equipped churches, leaders, and communities across Africa to respond to trauma, mental health challenges, and leadership development. Dr. Mwiti has served as chair of the Kenya Psychological Association, co-chaired the Lausanne Congress Mental Health and Trauma Advisory Group, and has written several books and articles on Christian counseling and holistic care in mission.

Mar 16

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44 min
APR 20

79. From Slum to CEO: A Journey With Dawn for the Poor in the Philippines

What happens when a child from a Manila slum becomes the leader of the very organization that once sponsored him? In this episode of God on the Move, Fred Dungganon shares how growing up in extreme poverty in Welfareville, losing his father, and surviving through odd jobs shaped his life—along with his early involvement in a spiritist cult marked by fear, emptiness, and syncretism. He tells how encountering the gospel at a youth camp led him back to Jesus, into discipleship, and ultimately into ministry with Dawn for the Poor, an OMF-founded work serving the urban poor through scholarships, holistic programs, and house churches. Fred recounts becoming executive director at 26, navigating a near-closure in 2020 that turned into renewed support during the pandemic, and casting vision for “Project 25” as Dawn expands to more communities across the Philippines. 📚 Links from the Interview Dawn for the Poor OMF International Podcast: Episode 23, From the Slums of Uganda to Founding a Conglomerate Social Enterprise Book: A Journey Of The Poor Book: Journey to Growth 🧑‍💻 About Fred Fred Dungganon is a Filipino pastor and nonprofit leader who serves as Executive Director of Dawn for the Poor, a Christian ministry working among urban poor communities in the Philippines. Having grown up in extreme poverty in Manila’s slums, he benefited from the organisation’s sponsorship programme as a child—an experience that enabled him to complete his education and encounter the Christian faith. After later pursuing ministry and leadership within the organisation, Dungganon became its director in 2007, helping transition it into a locally led foundation. Under his leadership, Dawn for the Poor has expanded its work in education, healthcare, livelihood development, and church planting, impacting thousands of families and communities. Dungganon is widely known for his story of transformation—from scavenging to support his family to leading the very organisation that once supported him—and for his vision of holistic mission that integrates faith, discipleship, and poverty alleviation. 🔗 Join the God on the Move Community on the Lausanne Action Hub and be part of the conversation, see exclusive content and share your own testimony.

Apr 20

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34 min
05/12/2025

Recovering the Heart of Evangelism: Des Henry on Proclamation, Discipleship, and the Spirit’s Power in the Church

What if the Church’s evangelistic crisis isn’t about culture—but about conviction? And what if the way forward isn’t more methods, but deeper surrender? In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Dr. Desmond Henry, Lausanne catalyst for proclamation evangelism and International Director of the Global Network of Evangelists for Palau, joins us for a compelling conversation on why evangelism often feels sidelined in today’s church—and why it must remain central to God’s mission. He shares insights on the tensions, misunderstandings, and future of evangelism, and challenges ministry leaders to embrace a Spirit-empowered lifestyle of gospel witness. If this episode challenged and encouraged you, share it with someone who’s passionate about mission and leadership. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and explore more resources at lausanne.org. 📚 Links & Resources Palau Association - https://www.palau.org/ Lausanne Global Classroom: Proclamation Evangelism - https://lausanne.org/global-classroom/proclamation-evangelism Advance Groups (Mentoring Guide for Evangelists) - https://www.advancegroups.org/ Life in 6 Words App - https://li6w.com/ Connect with Desmond Henry - https://www.desmond-henry.com/ Guest Bio: Desmond Henry is a missional thought-leader, professor of missiology, author, speaker, and practitioner committed to advancing global evangelism. As the International Director of the Global Network of Evangelists for Palau, he leads a global movement to identify, equip, mobilise, and support evangelists in reaching millions with the Gospel. In addition to his main role at Palau, Dr. Henry serves as Chairman of the Conspectus Journal at the South African Theological Seminary; Catalyst for the Lausanne Proclamation Evangelism Network; and Research Fellow for Lausanne Insights on Global Horizons and Trends, contributing to global thought leadership in missiology. Through his leadership at Palau, Lausanne, and beyond, Dr. Henry helps shape the future of gospel outreach strategies, ensuring evangelism remains bold, innovative, and biblically faithful. He is married to Lara, and together they have three daughters: Gabriella, Annabella, and Olivia.

05/12/2025

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43 min
10/27/2025

The Gospel in the City of Witchcraft: Ministry During Halloween in Salem with Steven and Sarah White

What does it mean to follow Jesus in a city famous for witchcraft? Pastor Steven and Sarah White share how their family and church bring the light of Christ into the heart of Salem, Massachusetts—especially during Halloween, when the streets overflow with spiritual seekers and darkness feels most tangible. ✨ Summary In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason Watson sits down with Pastor Steven and Sarah White to explore what faithful discipleship looks like in one of America’s most spiritually charged cities. From prayer walks through the Satanic Temple to welcoming thousands of visitors during Halloween, the Whites describe how God is using gentle presence, prayer, and joy to advance the gospel in Salem. They also open up about the importance of rest, marriage, and raising children amid spiritual opposition—and how light truly shines brightest in the dark. 🔑 Main Points Called to Salem: How God led Steven and Sarah to pastor in the spiritual epicenter of witchcraft. Faith Over Fear: Learning to live and minister without fear, even in the midst of spiritual warfare. Halloween Outreach: Why their church turns on every light, welcomes thousands, and embodies Christ’s presence during Halloween. Power in Prayer: Insights from praying through Salem—including inside the Satanic Temple—and what it reveals about Christ’s authority. Transformation Story: A moving testimony of a man delivered from witchcraft who gave his life to Jesus and threw his cauldron into the ocean. Rooted in Christ: How daily rhythms of prayer, Sabbath rest, and Scripture sustain their family and ministry. Marriage & Mission: How the Whites protect their marriage and nurture joy together in a spiritually heavy environment. 🙏 Call to Action Pray for the city of Salem this October—that Christ’s light would pierce the darkness and draw many to Himself. Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast for more stories of global mission, discipleship, and hope. Leave a review and share this episode to help others discover how the gospel is advancing in unexpected places. 🔗 Links & Resources 📰 Steven White on Pastoring in a Spiritual Battleground 👥 Guest Bios Steven White has served as pastor of First Baptist Church of Salem (Massachusetts) since 2021, leading a congregation committed to embodying the gospel in its historic New England context. He holds a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theology in Missiology from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, as well as a degree in Marketing from the University of Tennessee. Steven and his wife, Sarah, have two daughters. Sarah White has served with the Lausanne Movement since 2014, where she oversees operations and logistics for global gatherings and consultations. Before joining Lausanne, she worked in higher education administration for six years at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, where she also earned her Master of Divinity. She currently resides in Massachusetts with her husband, Steven, and their two daughters.

10/27/2025

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53 min

The Lausanne Movement connects influencers and ideas for global mission, with a vision of the gospel for every person, disciple-making churches for every people and place, Christ-like leaders for every church and sector, and kingdom impact in every sphere of society. Learn about our beginnings, ongoing connections, and mission today.

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