In All Things

What does it look like to love our neighbors the way Jesus does? In this episode of In All Things, Duncan and Laney Howard, founders of the Lago Vista Neighbor Ministry and authors of Joining Jesus in Underserved Communities, join Dean to share the story behind their ministry and the lessons they’ve learned through years of serving their community. Together, they explore God’s heart for the poor, the marginalized, and the overlooked, and how that concern is evident throughout Scripture. Click through to view various resources mentioned in this episode: Joining Jesus in Underserved Communities: Developing a Neighbor Ministry Model by Duncan and Laney Howard: https://www.amazon.com/Joining-Jesus-Underserved-Communities-Developing/dp/B0GPSF1TQQ Lago Vista Neighbor Ministry: https://lagovistaneighbor.org/ Contact Duncan and Laney: [email protected]

What does it mean to love your neighbor in a world that often feels disconnected? In this episode of In All Things, Dean sits down with Mark Grapengater, church planter and founder of the Table Project in Denver, for a conversation about hospitality, community, and the transformative power of relationships. As part of our Loving God, Loving Neighbor series, Mark shares how his ministry seeks to create spaces where people can encounter one another, and ultimately encounter Christ, around the table. Whether you’re looking for practical ways to engage your neighbors or a renewed vision for Christian community, this conversation offers encouragement and inspiration for living out Christ’s call to love God and love neighbor. Learn more about the Table Project at https://thetabledenver.org/

What does it mean to become the kind of person who naturally loves God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength? In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Michael Stewart Robb, author, researcher, and founder of the Sanctus Institute, for a conversation about spiritual formation through the lens of the late philosopher and theologian Dallas Willard. As part of our Loving God, Loving Neighbor series, Michael explores how Christian discipleship is not simply about believing the right things but being transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Learn the ins and outs of this years 46th General Assembly. Gianna Lazaro interviews Michael Davis.

What does it mean to be a people marked by prayer? In this episode of In All Things, Dave Strunk, outgoing Moderator of the 45th General Assembly and Thursday morning worship speaker, reflects on the theme of prayer through the story of Hezekiah and Isaiah. Drawing from scripture and his experience serving the EPC, Dave offers encouragement for leaders and churches to seek the Lord with humility, dependence, and trust. As we gather for General Assembly, this conversation reminds us that our strength as a church is found not in ourselves, but in the Lord, and that we are “Better Together” when we come to Him in prayer. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

How does the church stand firm in the midst of spiritual opposition, and what does that mean for our unity? In this episode of In All Things, Keon Abner, teaching elder and Regional Church Planting Director for the EPC Northeast, shares his experience in ministry and previews his General Assembly message from Ephesians 6, exploring the reality of spiritual warfare and the call for the church to stand firm together. As we prepare for General Assembly, this conversation calls us to remain grounded in truth, strengthened in faith, and committed to one another – because we are “Better Together.” To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What does it look like to trust Jesus in the midst of uncertainty? In this episode of In All Things, Megan Hackman, church planter and our Wednesday morning worship speaker at GA, shares about her experience in church planting and the ways God has been at work in her community. She reflects on both the joys and challenges of planting a church and the importance of depending on the Lord in every season of ministry. Megan also offers insight into John 14:1-7, the passage she will be preaching at General Assembly, where Jesus reminds His disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled.” As we prepare for General Assembly, this conversation points us to the hope we have in Christ and reminds us that we are truly “Better Together.” To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What does it mean to be part of Christ’s global church? In this episode of In All Things, Ed McCallum, ITEN’s Associate for Site and Program Development and our Tuesday evening worship speaker at this year’s General Assembly, reflects on Matthew 16 and the promise that Christ will build His church. With a focus on global mission and the upcoming World Outreach Commissioning service, Ed shares how the EPC participates in God’s work around the world. This episode reminds us that the church is truly global and that we are “Better Together” as we join in God’s mission across nations and cultures. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What does it look like for the church to grow together as one body in Christ? In this episode of In All Things, Dr. Tim Sansbury, provost and professor at Knox Theological Seminary and our Tuesday morning worship speaker at General Assembly, reflects on Ephesians 4:15-16, the theme passage for this year’s Assembly. He offers insight into what it means to “speak the truth in love” and how the church is called to maturity as it is joined and held together in Christ. This conversation invites us to consider how we can grow together in faith and unity, living into the truth that we are “Better Together.” To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026 Read Tim’s book here: https://www.bloomsbury.com/us/beyond-time-9780761846420/

What role does church planting play in the future of the EPC, and how can we be a part of it? In this episode of In All Things, Tom Ricks, National Director of Church Planting, shares a vision for church planting across the denomination and reflects on the opportunities available for current and prospective planters. Tom highlights the ways the EPC is working to equip, support, and send leaders into new communities with the gospel. With a special focus on this year’s General Assembly, this conversation invites listeners to consider how they might engage in the work of church planting – whether by going, sending, or supporting – and reminds us that in this shared mission, we are truly “Better Together.” To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What does it mean to uphold faithful ordination standards in today’s church? In this episode of In All Things, guest host Annie Rose sits down with Doug Resler and Julie Hawkins, co-chairs of the ad-interim committee on ordination standards, to discuss the work of their committee and the recommendations being presented to this year’s General Assembly. They offer insight into the importance of ordination standards for the health of the church and the preparation of its leaders, as well as the process their team followed in studying and discerning these issues together. As the EPC looks ahead, this conversation highlights the value of thoughtful collaboration and shared discernment, reminding us that we are truly Better Together. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

How can the church approach complex and sensitive questions with both theological clarity and pastoral care? In this episode of In All Things, Cameron Shaffer, co-chair of the ad-interim committee on same-sex attraction and ordination standards, shares insight into the work of the committee and the recommendations coming to this year’s General Assembly. Cameron offers a thoughtful framework rooted in Scripture, as well as practical guidance for how church leaders can navigate these conversations with wisdom, humility, and compassion. This episode invites listeners to consider how the EPC can remain faithful to its convictions while continuing to pursue unity in mission, living out the reality that we are Better Together. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What role does the Book of Discipline play in the life of the church, and why does it matter for the EPC today? In this episode of In All Things, Betsy Rumer, co-chair of the Book of Discipline Revision Task Force, joins us to discuss the work of the task force and the recommendations being brought to this year’s General Assembly. Betsy offers helpful insight into the purpose of the Book of Discipline, the process behind the proposed revisions, and how these changes are intended to support the health, accountability, and unity of the church. Throughout the conversation, Betsy highlights the collaborative spirit of the EPC and the importance of approaching this work with both clarity and grace, living into this year’s theme that we are truly Better Together. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

What is coming to the 2026 General Assembly, and why does it matter for the life of the EPC? In this episode of In All Things, we introduce the 46th GA and what listeners can expect as pastors, elders, and ministry leaders gather for worship, discernment, and fellowship. We explore the specific business coming to this Assembly and how this annual gathering strengthens the shared mission of the EPC. To learn more about the 2026 General Assembly and to register, visit: epconnect.org/ga2026

In this special Good Friday episode of In All Things, Michael Davis offers a brief devotional reflection on Luke 22:39–43, inviting us into the quiet, weighty moment of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane. As we consider Christ’s obedience and dependence on the Father, this episode also reflects on this year’s General Assembly theme and reminds us that even in our need, we are “Better Together.”

In this episode of In All Things, Cameron Shaffer, lead pastor of Langhorne Presbyterian Church and author of Keeping Kids Christian, shares pastoral insights on discipling children and cultivating lasting faith in the home and the church. Drawing from both Scripture and experience, Cameron offers a thoughtful theological framework for understanding how faith is formed, and why it so often struggles to take root. Together, he and Dean explore practical ways churches and families can partner in raising children who know and love the Lord, as well as the importance of community, consistency, and grace in that process. Resources mentioned in this episode: Keeping Kids Christian by Cameron Shaffer: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/products/9781540905055_keeping-kids-christian It’s Not Too Late by Dan Dupee: https://www.heartsandmindsbooks.com/2016/03/its_not_too_late_the_essential/ EPC Next Generation Ministries Council: https://epconnect.org/nextgen

In this episode of In All Things, Marc de Jeu, Director of Church Health, joins Annie Rose, Director of Ministerial Health, for a conversation about the importance of cultivating healthy churches and healthy leaders in the EPC. Together, they explore how community, prayer, and shared encouragement can sustain pastors and congregations, especially in challenging ministry contexts. They also discuss new initiatives designed to support leaders across the denomination, including the Rural Ministry Cohort Initiative and the Better Together Cohorts, which create space for pastors and leaders to connect, learn, and pray together as they serve their churches. Finally, the conversation highlights the EPC’s partnership with Knox Theological Seminary through the Commissioned Pastor Certification Program, which helps equip leaders for faithful ministry in local congregations. Learn more about the program here: Commissioned Pastor Certification Program with Knox Theological Seminary https://forms.monday.com/forms/f879d7a7fdae9968a9cbb7c75f05e4a4?r=use1&utm_source=Knox+Marketing&utm_campaign=402b1af535-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2025_11_05_07_46&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_-402b1af535-529299849

This week, special guest host Marc de Jeu sits down with pastor and author Josh Hayden to discuss the missional markers of a healthy church. They break down the distinction between revitalization and remissioning, the relationship of church metrics to a church’s missional identity, and share a bit about the equipping session they will be leading together at this year’s General Assembly. Whether you’re leading a church that wants to make disciples or just interested in how to improve your church’s missional health, this episode will allow you to consider the important questions and encouragements needed to for a healthy EPC church. Read Josh’s book, Remissioning Church, here: https://www.ivpress.com/remissioning-church?srsltid=AfmBOorwhJXYrulGe3_txOVkiOb95fWKFCwxp4oBfH7aEGNKT5-uHf99

In this special episode of In All Things, guest host Marc de Jeu, National Director of Church Health, is joined by Julie Hawkins and Michelle Tepper, Alpha USA’s National Director for Denominational Engagement, for a rich conversation about evangelism, hospitality, and the Church’s call to reach those who are searching. Together, they explore Alpha USA’s ministry and why it serves as such a powerful “front porch” for evangelism by creating welcoming spaces where people can ask honest questions, explore faith, and encounter the gospel in community. Michelle shares Alpha’s heart for discipleship and spiritual conversation, while Marc and Julie reflect on how EPC churches can faithfully integrate Alpha into their local ministry contexts. Whether your church is looking for new ways to engage your community or strengthen evangelistic pathways, this episode offers encouragement and concrete next steps for ministry. 🔗 Click HERE to Explore EPC Church Health tools and resources 🔗 Learn more about Alpha USA and how to get started: https://alphausa.org

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Brandon Jolley, a member of the Benefits Resources, Inc. (BRI) Committee, for a practical and encouraging conversation about how the EPC’s benefits program works and why participation matters. Together, Brandon and Dean walk through the heart behind EPC Benefits, explaining how the program supports pastors, church staff, and their families through medical coverage, wellness resources, and long-term care. Brandon offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the benefits plan functions, what makes it different from navigating insurance independently, and why a strong, connected participation base helps strengthen care for everyone involved. This episode is an invitation to pastors, sessions, and church leaders to explore how EPC Benefits can serve their communities, and a reminder that caring for those who serve the Church is a vital part of the Church’s witness. 🔗 Learn more about EPC Benefits and how to join at epconnect.org/benefits

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Julie Lynn Ashley, who shares her family’s powerful story of how the EPC and the EPC Benefits program supported them through one of the most challenging seasons of their ministry journey. Julie Lynn reflects on the realities of pastoral life, the unexpected moments when benefits become more than paperwork, and how the care from the wider EPC family provided when her family needed it most. Her testimony offers a meaningful reminder that ministry families are not meant to walk alone, and that tangible support from the Church makes a lasting difference. Whether you’re a pastor, ministry spouse, elder, or church leader, this episode offers both encouragement and practical insight into how the EPC seeks to care for those who serve. To connect with Julie Lynn, visit her website or Alongside Ministry Wives. 🔗 Learn more about EPC’s Benefits Program at epconnect.org/benefits 🔗 Watch Julie Lynn’s most recent webinar here: https://youtu.be/ZLXesFa6NcQ?si=GEvz4eGyT54z62sr

In the first episode of our new miniseries, The Benefit of Joining Our Benefits, Dean sits down with Carolee Richendollar, Executive Director of Benefits Resources, to explore how the EPC supports pastors, church staff, and their families through comprehensive benefits and holistic care. Together, they discuss why benefits matter not only practically, but spiritually, and how healthy coverage can create space for pastors to serve with greater confidence and longevity. Carolee also shares why so many people enrolled in the plan aren’t fully utilizing the resources available to them and offers encouragement for pastors and sessions to take a fresh look at what’s already at their fingertips. This episode is a helpful reminder that caring for those called to ministry is a shared responsibility of the Church. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or church administrator, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical next steps for making the most of the EPC’s Benefits Resources. 🔗 Learn more about EPC Benefits Resources and explore available plans and support at: https://www.epconnect.org/benefits

In this episode, Dean sits down with Stuart Chen to explore the often-overlooked seasons of calling that come after a career has ended. Drawing from his own experience serving at an international school in Central Asia, Stuart reflects on the different phases of retirement and the surprising opportunities they can hold for meaningful ministry. This conversation is an encouragement to believers of all ages, especially those nearing or entering retirement, to prayerfully consider how God might be inviting them to use their time, skills, and availability in this next chapter of life. As Stuart reminds us, the call to follow Jesus doesn’t end with a career; it continues wherever God leads. 📩 Interested in exploring how your retirement years could be used in ministry? Stuart welcomes conversation and questions. Feel free to reach out to him at [email protected]

In the third and final episode of our Generations Series, Dean, Gianna, and Kendra turn their attention to one of the most vital questions facing the Church today: how do we cultivate meaningful community across generations? The conversation explores how different generations understand belonging, commitment, and connection—especially in a world shaped by both digital and in-person interactions. From the strengths and limitations of online spaces to the irreplaceable value of embodied, face-to-face community, the team reflects on how churches can thoughtfully engage people of all ages within their immediate reach. 🔗 Learn more about the upcoming Next Gen Leadership Summit and how to register here.

In the second episode of our Generations Series, Dean, Gianna, and Kendra turn their attention to one of the most common and often misunderstood challenges in ministry: communication across generations. From texting and tone to email etiquette and expectations, the team explores how different generations communicate, where misunderstandings most often arise, and why good intentions can still lead to confusion. At its heart, this episode is a reminder that communication is an act of discipleship. When the Church learns to listen well and speak thoughtfully across generations, it reflects the unity of the Body of Christ and creates space for deeper connection. 🔗 Learn more about the EPC’s Next Generation Council: http://epconnect.org/nextgen/

In the first episode of our Generational Ministries series, Dean sits down with Kendra Smith and Gianna Lazzaro to explore the historical and cultural contexts that have shaped the generations currently present in the Church, and what those differences mean for ministry today. Rather than viewing generational differences as obstacles, this episode invites listeners to see them as opportunities for mutual learning, humility, and shared discipleship. As the Church looks ahead, the question is not how to choose one generation over another, but how we can faithfully steward the richness of the whole Body of Christ, together. To learn more about the EPC’s Next Generation Ministries Council, check out their webpage here.

In this episode, Dean sits down with Annie Rose, the EPC’s National Director of Ministerial Health, to unpack the findings from the 2025 Pastoral Well-Being Survey. More than 200 EPC pastors and retired pastors participated, giving us a clear picture of both the joys and the pressures of ministry today. Annie walks us through the survey’s key insights, including pastoral satisfaction, sources of stress, spiritual health trends, and surprising generational differences in how pastors seek support. She also highlights the critical resources available to EPC pastors, from counseling and coaching to sabbatical planning, medical care, and benevolence funds. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or church member who wants to better understand and care for your leaders, this episode is full of wisdom, compassion, and practical next steps. 📄 Read Annie’s full article here 🙏 Learn more about care resources for pastors: ✉️ Contact Annie: [email protected]

In this final week of Advent, celebrate the heart of the season: love. Dean reflects on the miracle of the Incarnation, where the promise of Matthew 1:22-23 comes true, God becomes “Immanuel, God with us,” and where John 1:14 declares that the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Through 1 John 4:9-12 and Jesus’ command in John 13:34-35, we’re reminded that this love is not abstract. It is embodied, sacrificial, and meant to be shared. Christmas proclaims that God didn’t just send love; He stepped into our world to transform it. As the Body of Christ, we are called to love one another deeply, living out the truth that we are truly better together. Merry Christmas from all of us at In All Things!

This third week of Advent centers on joy, and Dean turns our attention to one of Scripture’s most joyful moments – Mary and Elizabeth’s meeting in Luke 1:39-45, where even the child in Elizabeth’s womb leaps at the nearness of Christ. Paired with Paul’s exhortation in Philippians 4:4-7 to “rejoice in the Lord always,” we’re reminded that joy is not dependent on circumstances but anchored in God’s presence. Advent joy is a shared joy; when we rejoice together, that joy multiplies. As we await Christ’s coming, we celebrate that God is near, God is faithful, and God is at work among His people.

In the second week of Advent, Dean invites us to consider the gift of peace as declared by the angels in Luke 2:8-14 and accomplished through Christ Himself. Ephesians 2:14-18 shows us that Jesus doesn’t just offer peace; He is our peace, breaking down dividing walls and reconciling us to God and one another. Advent reminds us that peace is not simply the absence of conflict but the presence of a restored relationship. In a fractured world and a divided age, the Church is called to embody this peace together, living as a people reconciled by grace and united in Christ.

In this first week of Advent, we turn our hearts toward hope, remembering that God’s people have always been a people who wait together. Drawing from Isaiah 9:2-7, Dean reflects on a world that once walked in darkness and the promise of a great light: Christ, our coming King. And as Romans 15:12-13 reminds us, this hope is not wishful thinking, but a confident expectation rooted in God’s faithfulness. Advent teaches us that hope grows strongest in community; we are “better together” when we lift one another’s eyes toward the Savior who keeps every promise and turns our waiting into worship.

In this special Thanksgiving edition of In All Things, Assistant Stated Clerk Michael Davis leads a heartfelt devotional on Psalm 100, reflecting on what it truly means to give thanks as the people of God. Through the psalm’s call to joyful worship, intimate relationship, and corporate gratitude, Michael reminds us that thanksgiving is not merely a feeling but a faithful response to who God is. Each verse offers a glimpse into how we express gratitude: with gladness in song, with intimacy in relationship, with unity in community, and ultimately because of God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. As we enter this season of gratitude, may we remember that our thanksgiving is better together as a chorus of praise lifted by the Body of Christ. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us here at In All Things!

In the concluding episode of our Essentials series, Dean sits down with esteemed church historian Dr. Mark Noll to explore the rich historical and theological context surrounding the Essentials of our Faith. Together, they trace the development of Presbyterianism in America, reflect on the global identity of the EPC, and consider how balancing truth and grace has always been central to our confessional life. Drawing from centuries of church history, Dr. Noll and Dean discuss how past movements of faith and reform can guide the EPC in navigating present and future challenges. Their conversation reminds us that the Essentials are not only a foundation to preserve but a living testimony of God’s ongoing work in His Church around the world. This episode offers both historical insight and pastoral encouragement for anyone seeking to understand how the EPC’s theological roots inform its present mission and unity in Christ. 🔗 Learn more about the Permanent Committee on Theology and its work at epconnect.org/committees

In this episode, Dean is joined by Don Fortson, one of the EPC’s leading authorities on our denomination’s history and doctrine. Together, they explore the deep relationship between the Essentials of Our Faith and the Westminster Confession of Faith, unpacking how these foundational documents work together to shape the theological core of the EPC’s Constitution. Don and Dean discuss the importance of doctrinal integrity, the role of confessional subscription in the life of the church, and how the EPC’s distinctive approach preserves both unity in the essentials and liberty in non-essentials. Through their conversations, listeners will gain a richer understanding of why what we believe – and how we hold those beliefs – matters deeply for the church’s witness and health today. 🔗 Learn more about the Permanent Committee on Theology: epconnect.org/committees 📘 Explore Dr. Fortson’s book on the Essentials: https://epcresources.org/collections/books-and-booklets/products/liberty-in-non-essentials-the-story-of-the-evangelical-presbyterian-church

In the second episode of our Essentials series, Dean sits down with Dr. Clifton Ward, Associate Professor of Church History and Theology, to explore the enduring theological depth and practical significance of the Essentials of Our Faith. Together, they unpack the relationship between the Essentials and the Westminster Confession, tracing how both shape our understanding of Reformed theology and the unity of the Church. Their conversation highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in illuminating truth, guiding the Church in charity and conviction, and binding believers together across generations and traditions. Dean and Clifton also reflect on how the EPC’s Essentials foster unity amid diversity, and how these core affirmations of faith can serve as a spiritual anchor for the next generation of believers seeking a firm foundation in an ever-changing world. 🔗 Learn more about the Permanent Committee on Theology, the committee that first brought the Essentials to the floor of the General Assembly and continues to guide the EPC in matters of doctrine and faith: epconnect.org/committees

In the first episode of our series on The Essentials of Our Faith, Dean sits down with Bob Stauffer, who was present at the very first General Assembly of the EPC. Together, they look back on the denomination’s formative years, exploring the streams of thought that flowed into the river of the EPC’s development and the theological and cultural moments that gave rise to who we are today. Bob shares his firsthand perspective on the early vision of the EPC, the conversations that shaped our identity, and the foundation that led to the creation of the Essentials of Our Faith. This episode provides both historical insight and heartfelt reflection on how God’s providence has guided our denomination from the beginning, laying a firm foundation for generations to come. 🔗 Learn more about the Permanent Committee on Theology, the group that first brought the Essentials to the General Assembly and continues to guide our denomination’s theological conversations: epconnect.org/committees

In the final episode of our Gospel Hospitality series, Dean and Brad Strait conclude their conversation by reflecting on Jesus as the ultimate stranger: the one who entered our world to bring us home. Together, they explore the extravagant love and radical acceptance taught throughout Scripture and what it means for the Church to embody that same spirit of welcome today. Brad and Dean discuss the importance of creating a safe and gracious space within the Church for those who are seeking, questioning, or longing for belonging. Through stories, Scripture, and personal reflection, they remind us that gospel hospitality mirrors the heart of God who invites everyone to the table, not because they’ve earned it, but because they are loved. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

In this second episode of our Gospel Hospitality series, Dean and Brad Strait return to dive deeper into what it means to show hospitality, not only with our homes but also with our hearts and minds. Together, they explore the idea of intellectual hospitality – how we can engage others with both grace and conviction, even when we disagree. Bran and Dean discuss the importance of humility and curiosity in conversations, how to navigate different environments with a spirit of welcome, and how Jesus himself modeled hospitality through his interactions with people across every walk of life. This episode invites listeners to reflect on how Christ-like hospitality calls us to listen well, speak graciously, and embody truth with gentleness in an increasingly divided world. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

In this first episode of our three-part series on Gospel Hospitality, Dean is joined by Brad Strait, Lead Pastor of Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church and the host of the upcoming 46th General Assembly. Together, they explore what it truly means to embody the heart of hospitality as followers of Christ. Brad and Dean discuss the biblical foundations of gospel hospitality, what Scripture teaches about welcoming the stranger, and how hospitality is not just a cultural nicety but a reflection of God’s own character. They also look forward to the ultimate hospitality we will be granted in heaven, where every tribe and tongue will be gathered around the table of the Lord. This episode reminds us that gospel hospitality is more than opening our doors. It’s opening our lives to others, just as God has welcomed us through Christ. 🌐 Learn more about Cherry Creek Presbyterian Church: cherrycreekpres.org 📅 Get the latest updates for the 46th General Assembly of the EPC: epconnect.org/ga

“In this very special 200th episode of In All Things, our producer and guest host Gianna Lazzaro sits down with Dean to reflect on the incredible journey of the podcast so far. Dean shares stories about the podcast’s humble beginnings, recording in a closet, and how it has grown into a platform that connects and encourages the EPC family around the world.   Dean also reflects on his nearly five years as Stated Clerk, the joys of serving the denomination, and how he has seen God at work across the EPC. Together, Gianna and Dean look back at the impact of In All Things over its first 200 episodes and reaffirm the importance of the podcast’s core verse from Colossians 1, which continues to shape every conversation.   Thank you for being part of this journey. We couldn’t have reached this milestone without you! Follow the EPC on social media to stay connected by clicking HERE

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Sean Nemecek, Regional Director for PIR Ministries and the author of The Weary Leader’s Guide to Burnout, for a candid and compassionate conversation about the realities pastors face behind the pulpit. Sean and Dean discuss the misconceptions surrounding pastoral burnout, the isolation many pastors experience, and the unique pressures that come with shepherding a congregation. Sean offers heartfelt encouragement and practical advice for both pastors and congregations on how to foster healthy rhythms of rest, support, and care so that churches can thrive and their leaders can flourish. Whether you’re a pastor, elder, or member of a congregation, this conversation is a powerful reminder that pastors are people, too – and that building healthy church communities requires caring for the shepherds who care for us. 📖 Read Sean’s book The Weary Leader’s Guide to Burnout: https://seannemecek.com/book/ 🌱 Learn more about PIR Ministries: https://pirministries.org/ 💒 Explore resources from the EPC Church Health Team: https://epconnect.org/cpch/churchhealth/

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Greg Perry, President of Thirdmill Seminary, for a powerful conversation on the calling and challenges of global discipleship. Greg shares the story behind Thirdmill’s vision to equip church leaders worldwide and reflects on the unique opportunities and obstacles facing the global church. Together, Greg and Dean explore the difference between intercultural and cross-cultural discipleship, and discuss how understanding those dynamics can transform the way churches approach global ministry. They also offer practical steps for local churches that want to participate in God’s global mission, even if they feel small or far removed from international work. Whether you’re a pastor, church leader, or simply passionate about the Great Commission, this episode will inspire you to see how the flourishing Body of Christ spans every culture, language, and nation. 🌍 Learn more about Thirdmill Seminary: https://thirdmillseminary.edu 💒 Explore resources from the EPC Church Health Team: epconnect.org/cpch/churchhealth

In this episode of In All Things, Dean Weaver once again sits down with Ritchey Cable to delve into the intersection of art and faith, exploring how art can serve as a parable and a tool for discipleship within the church. They discuss the power of storytelling in art, the importance of engaging with culture through creative expressions, and practical ways for pastors to incorporate art into their ministry. The conversation emphasizes the need for discernment in evaluating media and the potential for art to foster gospel conversations. Whether you are an artist yourself or simply interested in the function of the arts in ministry, this conversation proves an invaluable resource for understanding how art and media can act as modern-day parables. 👉 Learn more about Ritchey’s films at portalpictures.studio 👉 Explore resources from the EPC Church Health Team.

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Josh Brown, Lead Pastor of Bellefield Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Together, they explore what it means to live out a true partnership in the gospel within the church and beyond. Their conversation ranges from the theology of place and community engagement, to understanding partnership as more than just pastor-and-congregation dynamics, to the unique role campus ministries can play when they collaborate with local churches. Drawing on both pastoral and presbytery experience, Josh offers practical wisdom and a hopeful vision for how every member of the Body of Christ has a part to play in the Great Commission. 👉 Learn more about resources from the EPC Church Health Team at epconnect.org/cpch/churchhealth

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by Bryan Rhodes, pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Alexandria, Louisiana, for a thoughtful conversation about what it truly means to belong to a church. Together, they reflect on the church’s covenant relationship with God, the promises believers keep to one another, and the responsibilities of a faithful community of disciples. Bryan also shares from his own pastoral experience about navigating seasons of transition and why covenant community matters now more than ever. His book on the importance of family worship will soon be available on Amazon. 👉 Connect with Bryan Rhodes: [email protected] 👉 Explore Church Health Resources

In this episode of In All Things, Dean is joined by filmmaker, church health coordinator, and our own Digital Content Lead Ritchey Cable to explore how creativity and beauty shape the life and worship of the church. Ritchey shares insights from his dual calling as a film director and presbytery leader, reflecting on how storytelling, art, and imagination can enrich discipleship and renew community. Whether you’re an artist, pastor, or church member, this conversation will inspire you to see creativity not as extra, but as vital to the church’s witness and worship. 👉 Learn more about Ritchey’s films at portalpictures.studio 👉 Explore resources from the EPC Church Health Team

In this episode, Dean sits down with Matt Stinson, Executive Director of Finance and Operations at Colonial Village Presbyterian Church, to explore the heart behind church administration. Matt shares his story of transitioning from the business world into full-time church operations, offering thoughtful reflections on the distinct challenges – and opportunities – of managing the practical life of a congregation. Together, he and Dean discuss how executive pastors and administrative leaders can serve both the mission of the church and the people in the pews. Whether you're in church leadership or simply curious about the unseen work that keeps ministry running, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and a glimpse into what faithfulness looks like behind the scenes.

In this first episode of our special two-part miniseries on church administration, Dean sits down with Greg Flagg, Executive Associate Pastor at Sierra Presbyterian Church in Nevada City, California. Greg shares from his experience as an Executive Pastor to discuss the often-unsung role that church administrators play in building healthy, sustainable ministries. From navigating HR challenges in small churches to identifying support structures that help pastors and staff flourish, Greg highlights how executive pastors serve as a backbone for their congregations. He and Dean also explore current trends in church administration, the value of intentional leadership development, and the importance of gatherings and networks for XP Admins across the EPC. Whether you're an executive pastor, a lead pastor, or someone curious about what happens behind the scenes of your church, this episode sheds light on the crucial (and complex) work of church administration.

In the final installment of our Church and Culture series, Dean is joined by pastor and author Luke Johnston for a powerful conversation on what it means to replant a church, and why doing so often requires deep humility, local insight, and faith in the God who brings life out of death. Drawing from Luke’s book, If It Dies: Why Replanting is the Hope for Dying Churches and How You Can Lead It, he and Dean explore Luke’s journey to replanting his church, how to recognize when a church plant needs to be reimagined, and practical wisdom for leaders facing ministry transitions. This episode is a meaningful close to our series and a hopeful word for anyone wrestling with cultural change, church decline, or missional calling. 🔗 Check out Luke’s book here: If It Dies 📘 Explore EPC Ministry Resources: epconnect.org/ministryresources

In this episode, Dean is joined by Chris White, Lead Pastor of Gateway Church EPC, for a thoughtful conversation on discipleship in today’s cultural landscape. Together, they unpack the challenges of forming mature believers in a world of competing stories, and why faithful discipleship is more important than ever. Chris shares personal experiences from his own journey, explores the power of biblical storytelling in cultural engagement, and reflects on what it means to live out the gospel in our everyday lives. From Sunday mornings to the mundane moments of the week, this conversation calls us back to a life deeply rooted in Christ and faithfully lived in the world. 🔗 Learn more about Chris’s church: gatewaychurchepc.org 📚 Explore more resources on discipleship and ministry at: epconnect.org/ministryresources