The World Parish Podcast

In this episode of The World Parish Podcast, host Larry Rankin talks with Rev. Charles Mulemena, a missionary in Belize. Born in Zambia, Charles shares his spiritual awakening at 12 and his eventual call to ministry, despite witnessing his father's hardships as a volunteer minister. He recounts his journey from pastoral work in Zambia to becoming a missionary, with a pivotal conversation with his bishop changing his perspective. His work at the New Life Center in Zambia, initiated by Delbert and Sandy Groves, has significantly influenced leadership and community development. Charles emphasizes the modern role of missionaries as servants, empowering local leaders. His story highlights the transformative power of faith and the enduring impact of missionary work.

In the latest episode of The World Parish Podcast, host Larry Rankin welcomes Rev. Nate Steury, a missionary with deep roots in Kenya. Nate shares his journey from growing up as a child of missionaries to becoming a missionary himself, influenced by his parents and brother-in-law. He recounts his unexpected return to the mission field in Zambia and his work with Kafakumba Transformational Outreach Ministries, which trains pastors and lay workers to shift from fear-based to love-based ministry. 

In the latest episode of The World Parish Podcast, Larry Rankin interviews Debbie Adams Corbin, who shares her unique experiences growing up as a missionary kid in Bolivia. Born to missionaries Reverend David and Carol Adams, Debbie reflects on her childhood in Sucre and La Paz, highlighting the cultural immersion, language learning, and the rich experiences that shaped her worldview. She discusses the challenges and joys of adjusting to life back in the United States, the profound impact of living in another country, and how these experiences have influenced her perspective on global cultures and ministry. Debbie also touches on the concept of "third culture kids" and the importance of understanding and appreciating diverse cultural backgrounds. Tune in to hear more about Debbie's journey, the role of missionary kids in ministry, and her insights on living a life of faith and service.

In this episode of The World Parish Podcast, host Larry Rankin interviews Molly McEntire, Missional Engagement Team Lead for The Florida Conference of The United Methodist Church. Molly shares her journey from her Methodist upbringing in West Palm Beach to her extensive work in local, national, and global missions, highlighting her faith's foundation shaped by her clergy father and transformative experiences at church camp, including a pivotal mission trip to San Francisco at sixteen.   Molly discusses her impactful work with Zoe Empowers, a nonprofit aiding vulnerable children, and shares stories from her travels to Kenya, Cuba, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She emphasizes the importance of seeing Christ in those she serves and learning from their resilience, illustrating how small acts, like providing seeds or grants, can significantly change lives. Molly also addresses the challenges of encouraging local churches to adopt healthy mission practices while honoring existing efforts. Tune in to hear her inspiring stories of faith, service, and the transformative power of missions worldwide.

In this episode, Larry Rankin interviews Rev. Janet Chilcote and Rev. Dr. Paul Chilcote about their mission work in Africa.  The Chilcotes recount their experiences in Kenya and Zimbabwe, highlighting their work in theological education, community health, and drought relief. They emphasize the strong sense of community and joy in the African church. Janet talks about teaching childbirth education and promoting health among African women and children, while Paul reflects on valuing people over material things and the joy of communal worship.

In this episode of The World Parish Podcast, host Larry Rankin interviews Heidi Aspinwall, Director of Missions and Outreach at Hyde Park United Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida. Heidi shares her journey from growing up in a small evangelical community in Oklahoma to her impactful work in urban ministry and mission programs in Miami. She discusses her faith journey, the importance of service, and her role in launching a young adult mission program for The Florida Conference in 2015. Heidi highlights the complexities of urban ministry, particularly working with individuals struggling with homelessness, and emphasizes the importance of community building and mutual understanding. Heidi offers insights into the transformative power of missions, recognizing God's work, and the value of partnering with local communities. Tune in to hear more about her inspiring journey and the lessons she's learned along the way.

In this episode of The World Parish Podcast, Rev. Ewing "Bud" Carroll, Jr. shares his remarkable journey in mission work. Born in St. Petersburg, Florida, Bud, with his former spouse Milly, served in Hong Kong for 25 years, involved in various ministries including university campus ministry and preaching in Chinese and English. He also reflects on his 12 years as an executive secretary with the UMC's General Board of Global Ministries, overseeing mission personnel in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos, and his time as a pastor in Saipan. Bud candidly discusses his faith journey, the challenges he faced, and the importance of a pastoral heart and love for Jesus. His story highlights how unexpected events and guidance by the Holy Spirit led to remarkable opportunities in mission work. Tune in for an inspiring testament to faith and dedication in serving others.

In this episode of The World Parish Podcast, host Larry Rankin interviews Bishop Tom Berlin, who reflects on his lifelong journey of faith, shaped by a strong Christian upbringing and the influence of his family and church community.   Bishop Berlin shares how his mission work, particularly in Appalachia, Sierra Leone, and local communities, deepened his understanding of integrated Christian life, blending evangelism, compassion, and justice. He emphasizes the importance of building lasting relationships through mission work, which he believes should go beyond short-term engagements to foster long-term partnerships and transformative impact. This episode offers insightful reflections on how mission and ministry can be lived out authentically within local and global communities.