What if your church work felt like a true calling rather than just a job? We had the pleasure of hosting Pastor Jason Scheler, who shares his journey from selfishness to servanthood and the powerful transformation that occurs when we embrace grace. Through heartfelt stories, Jason recounts the pivotal role that dedicated teachers and spiritual influences played in shaping his missionary heart, and he offers critical insights into the disconnect between career motivations and spiritual calling, particularly within the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. This episode promises to challenge and inspire with its exploration of being called to mission over comfort.

Leadership in the church is not without its challenges, especially when it comes to implementing change. Fear and conformity can often stifle creativity and innovation within faith communities. Our discussion focuses on the need for an adaptable approach to ministry, emphasizing emotional connections and authentic discipleship over mere knowledge acquisition. We also explore the potential of smaller, diverse church communities to effectively reach people in unconventional settings, challenging traditional church growth models and encouraging a more vibrant and inclusive approach to pastoral leadership.

From hosting beach services to cultivating online discipleship pathways, we delve into innovative discipleship systems designed to enhance community outreach and engagement. By shifting from traditional teaching methods to dynamic approaches like life groups and discovery Bible studies, we're fostering a culture of personal accountability and spiritual growth. With an emphasis on storytelling and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we encourage believers to live out their faith boldly. This episode is packed with insights into empowering church leaders, embracing diversity, and engaging in courageous conversations to strengthen the mission of the church.

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Unlock the transformative power of Lutheran education with insights from Dr. Thomas Wrege, who shares his extensive knowledge and experience in this episode. Discover how Lutheran schools approach education as a mission field, welcoming diverse families and teaching the Bible in a distinctively Lutheran way. Explore the challenges and joys of reaching out to unchurched families and fostering faith formation among students, while also addressing the decline in Lutheran students attending confirmation classes.

Embark on a journey to understand the Lutheran Religion Standards Project, launched in 2023, which aims to integrate faith and education by creating cohesive standards for Lutheran schools. We'll discuss the collaborative efforts with organizations like Concordia Publishing House to align curriculum with core religious principles, strengthening Lutheran identity in education. This grassroots initiative demonstrates the power of collective effort to inspire widespread change, with potential expansions into other core subjects.

Support Lutheran educational leaders with innovative strategies from DAST Consulting, ensuring schools access lesser-known funding opportunities and maintain a healthy work-life balance for educators. Highlighting programs like SLED and Van Lunen fellowships, we discuss the importance of continual learning and development among administrators. We'll also touch on holistic health, church unity, and the Unite Leadership Collective's mission to empower Lutheran leaders through collaboration, ensuring a bright future for Lutheran education.

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What if the future of the church lies not in grand, imposing structures, but in the intimate connections made within small communities? Join us as we uncover the fascinating journey of Pastor Travis Hartjen, a dedicated church planter and youth minister. His story is a powerful testament to the transformative potential of staying within the church to enact change.

Explore the evolving world of youth ministry with Travis, as he shares insights on engaging today's skeptical teens with authenticity and sincerity. Discover how he navigates the complex landscape of mega churches and concert-like worship experiences by fostering meaningful, personal relationships within smaller church settings. We discuss the shift from traditional sermons to interactive, discussion-based approaches, creating spaces where young people can find their identity and purpose in Christ, and promoting genuine discipleship.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as we discuss the critical need for leadership development and community building within the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Pastor Travis shares his experiences and challenges in transitioning from youth ministry to a pastoral role, emphasizing the importance of shared leadership and unity among churches. Learn how new church plants can breathe life into existing congregations and how fostering authentic relationships can lead to a more collaborative and supportive church environment. Be inspired by stories of bold faith, as we explore the potential of emerging leaders to steer the church toward a sustainable and joy-filled future.

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Join the Lead Time Newsletter! (Weekly Updates and Upcoming Episodes)
https://www.uniteleadership.org/lead-time-podcast#newsletter

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