Baptist Bridges

Welcome to a special episode of Baptist Bridges, recorded live at Brock University during CBOQ Assembly’s Pastor’s Day! In this conversation, we’re joined by Dr. Sam Reimer, sociologist and author of Caught in the Current: British and Canadian Evangelicals in an Age of Self-Spirituality.We dive into what’s happening in our culture, why people are “deconstructing” their faith, and how belonging might matter more than apologetics. Plus: the rise of the “nonvert,” why relationships are everything, and how the church can still be a place where people meet God—even if they don’t start by calling it that.Whether you’re a pastor, parent, or just trying to make sense of the spiritual shifts around you, this one’s for you.

In this special episode, our Executive Minister, Leanne Friesen, sits down with Rev. Laura Salakandu, one of our newest ordinands, to hear her powerful and inspiring testimony. Laura shares her journey of faith, calling, and the moments that led her to this new chapter in ministry.Whether you're discerning your own call or simply in need of encouragement, Laura’s story is a moving reminder of God’s faithfulness and the courage it takes to say “yes.”Notes:You can view photos and video from Laura's ordination here.Children & Family Certificate Training Program.Connect with us:• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Credits:Host: Leanne FriesenGuests: Curtis Lai & Ken FooRecorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina GummatovaEdited by: Josh Del Rosario

A few weeks ago, we released an episode of our podcast called "The Politics and the Pulpit." With the current political realities happening around us, we felt it was timely to release this episode again. Our Executive Minister, Rev. Leanne Friesen, recorded a special message to start the episode for all of you leading in these days. Part of her message states:"Pivot from believing or suggesting that our hope will be found if we just get the right person "on the throne." Christ is on the throne. Christ is the one we follow and in whom we place our hope. You are pastoring such challenging times and we are thankful for you. Know of our prayers for you. Know that you are seen, and do not underestimate the importance of your calling in this time and this place. Preach well, dear friends, and know that God is with you."  In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations.Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division.Connect with us:• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠Credits:Host: Leanne FriesenGuest: ⁠Kevin Loten⁠Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina GummatovaEdited by: Josh Del Rosario

In this episode of Baptist Bridges, host Leanne Friesen is joined by guests Rev. Dr. Ken Foo and Curtis Lai to explore the importance of sabbaticals for pastors. They share personal experiences, discuss the biblical foundation of sabbaticals, and address common misconceptions, such as guilt, identity struggles, and church concerns. The conversation highlights how sabbaticals prevent burnout, strengthen leadership, and benefit entire congregations. Whether you're a pastor considering a sabbatical or a church leader wondering how to support one, this episode offers valuable insights on rest, renewal, and trusting God in ministry.Notes:Leanne mentioned that she wrote some pieces on her blog about Sabbatical, including one about the ephod. Here is a piece she wrote about struggling to take Sabbatical.Connect with us:• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Credits:Host: Leanne FriesenGuests: Curtis Lai & Ken FooRecorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina GummatovaEdited by: Kristina Gummatova

How can churches become truly inclusive communities for people with disabilities? In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith, accessibility, and belonging. Our guest, Rev. Dr. Stephen Bedard, shares personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how churches can move beyond accommodation to full participation. From practical steps to theological reflections, this conversation invites leaders and congregations to rethink what it means to be the body of Christ—where every member is valued and empowered.Tune in for an honest and hopeful discussion on breaking barriers and embracing diversity in our church communities.Notes:Here is an article Stephen wrote on importance of online services for accessibility and how that opens up new opportunities for disabled people.Additional resources:www.disabilityandchurch.comStephen's X (formally Twitter) account: @stephenbedard10Connect with us:• Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Credits:Host: Leanne FriesenGuest: Stephen BedardEdited by: Kristina Gummatova

Are today’s youth and young adults just the "future of the church" or vital leaders for today? How can churches empower youth and young adults to lead meaningfully? In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Leanne Friesen is joined by Alvin Lau, CBOQ's Youth Ministries Associate, and Tejay Morley, a young leader from North Burlington Baptist Church, to explore how mentorship and trust can transform the next generation of church leaders. Alvin shares insights on breaking stereotypes about Gen Z and Gen Alpha and creating meaningful leadership opportunities, while Tejay tells his inspiring story of turning a bold idea into a thriving youth-led ministry project. Discover practical ways your church can invest in and equip young people to make a lasting impact. Don’t miss this engaging conversation! Notes: CBOQ Youth Website Micro Grants Avalanche and Blizzard youth retreats Camp Kwasind Leaders In Training (L.I.T.) Young Leaders Collective RightNow Media CBOQ offer Bible in 30 Minutes Play that Tejay directed Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Alvin Lau and Tejay Morley Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division. Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Kevin Loten Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. In our first episode of Baptist Bridges for 2025, Faith Beyond Sunday School, Tanya Yuen sits down with two experts in family discipleship, Christie Thomas and Ken Foo, as they dive into the real challenges families face when it comes to spiritual growth at home. From time constraints to feeling overwhelmed and kids’ disinterest, these challenges are familiar to so many. But you will learn that small, intentional steps can make a big difference! Christie shares practical, easy-to-implement ideas that any family can use to incorporate faith throughout the week. Plus, she talks about her new book, Little Habits, Big Faith, and why simple practices can lead to deep, lasting spiritual growth in your family. Ken also discusses the crucial role of churches in supporting parents and reshaping ministries to help families thrive. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. Listen now to discover how you can help your family grow in faith with simple, everyday habits that make a big impact. Notes: • Little Shoots, Deep Roots: Christie Thomas' ministry that empowers parents to nurture their children's faith. • Christie Thomas' most recent book: Little Habits, Big Faith: How Simple Practices Help Your Family Grow in Jesus • Toronto Children's Ministry Conference Connect with us: • Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Website: ⁠⁠baptist.ca⁠⁠ Credits: Host: Tanya Yuen Guests: Christie Thomas and Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

In today's bonus episode, our guest is Sharlene MacLennan, a registered social worker and practicing therapist who specializes in mental health and addiction. Sharlene shares insights on self-care strategies for ministry leaders and discusses her work supporting clergy, non-profit workers, and others in high-demand roles. Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experiences as a pastor's kid, Sharlene offers valuable advice on navigating the Christmas season with resilience and grace. We encourage you to take time for yourself - prioritize mental health and seek support when needed during this season of giving and reflection. Resources: Our website provides some Mental Health Resources that may be of interest to you. Advent playlist - may these melodies remind you of God’s faithfulness and fill your heart with expectation as we prepare for the joy of Christmas. Come, Lord Jesus, come. Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠baptist.ca⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Sharlene MacLennan Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

A message from our guest, Jeremy Ng: To the unnamed grievers. Although there is so much more about grief, both individual and corporate, that we could have talked about, the one thing I wished I had brought more attention to was unnamed grief. The grief that is not socially acceptable. The grief that is not allowed to be talked about openly. The grief that we don’t believe is real. Maybe, like I mentioned on the podcast, that it’s children who grieve, and people think they are simply too young to grieve, that they don’t understand what’s going on. It could be expectant parents who experience a miscarriage.  It could be a death by a suicide. Sometimes, it’s just a really complicated relationship with that person, where it feels like they aren’t allowed to grieve. For so many reasons, grief can become unnamed, disenfranchised, it can be ignored, and the person is never seen, leaving them feeling further isolated and alone. Our learning includes being aware that grief can happen in all sorts of unexpected ways.  Our response to grief is not based on whether we judge it to be valid or not, but by the experience of the griever going through it.  Our invitation begins with simply being present, seeing people in their grief, and walking alongside them. Notes: In this podcast, Jeremy mentioned specifically about children’s grief and wanted to highlight the importance of children being included in the grieving process.  Here are a few resources that he has found helpful in his work with the younger population: Children and Youth Grief Network Canadian Virtual Hospice Dougy Centre Addition Resource: Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss - a book written by our Executive Minister, Leanne Friesen. Blue Christmas Service -  a service to make space for your grief at Christmas. Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website: ⁠baptist.ca⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Tracey Bagley and Jeremy Ng Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

Today’s conversation takes us into the world of small churches, where our guests describe the distinctive rhythms and responsibilities of leading a smaller congregation. They talk about what church studies and conferences that usually focus on bigger churches often miss about small church life, as well as the multi-hat roles pastors often play and the hands-on tasks unique to small congregations. The discussion highlights the beauty of small church ministry, the depth of relationships, and the lessons new ministers need to embrace in order to thrive. Notes: Contact ⁠Tanya Yuen⁠ Learn more about Small Church Connections On Naming "Small Churches": A few days after recording this episode, a number of our female clergy gathered for a Female Clergy Retreat. While introducing themselves, one of our pastors of a church of 20 or so congregants described her church as a "Boutique Church." Here is a description of a "boutique" store: "Boutiques are specialty shops that sell limited types of products. A large retail chain may offer clothing, makeup, hair products, and possibly even food all in one place. Boutiques operate in small spaces, so they must be more selective when ordering inventory." A boutique hotel is described as: "Small-capacity hotels that provide more personalized service than typical hotels." The women at our retreat loved this way to describe our small churches - focussing on the unique benefits and blessings of a small church. Ruth was eager to share this new term as part of our podcast! Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠⁠ Website: baptist.ca Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Ruth Bartlett, Ron Johnston, Michel Belzile Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

Earlier this season, we started by exploring the topic of pastoral shortages in CBOQ. We named that we have seen more churches struggling to find pastors in a season of great pastoral transition. In this particular podcast, we also discussed one of the exciting ways that we are seeing God move among us in the midst of this. We are seeing more and more pastors join our family who have come to us from other countries, and are now eager to serve in their new home in Canada. Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠⁠@cboq⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠@cboqcommunity⁠⁠ Website: ⁠baptist.ca⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Kwasi Boakye, Dennis Johnson, Gabriel Araba Recorded & Edited by: Josh Del Rosario

In today's episode, Leanne Friesen, Elden Faulkner, and Leaslie Makins explore how the pandemic has reshaped both the Church and their personal roles. They discuss the adjustments they’ve had to make and emphasize the significance of adapting to these new realities. The conversation also sheds light on the diverse experiences of churches and their ability to evolve and thrive despite challenges. Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠@cboq⁠ Facebook: ⁠@cboqcommunity⁠ Website: ⁠baptist.ca⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Elden Faulkner, Leaslie Makins Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario Edited by: Kristina Gummatova

Today's podcast discusses the challenges of finding pastors for churches in the CBOQ and across Canada, including a shortage of pastors, pastors looking at different ministry avenues, and churches struggling to afford full-time pastors. Leanne Friesen, Cid Latty and David Williams, provide insights into the changing landscape of pastoral ministry, such as the need to rethink traditional expectations and models of pastoral leadership, and the importance of empowering the broader church community to engage in ministry. The conversation highlights the complex factors contributing to the "pastoral crisis," including stress, isolation, low salaries, and toxic church cultures. Notes: Barna Group Article Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq Facebook: @cboqcommunity Website: ⁠baptist.ca⁠ Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Cid Latty, David Williams Edited by: Josh Del Rosario