Rural Renewal Podcast by Ascent Movement

If you’ve ever felt like your ministry is unseen, slow, or harder than you expected—you’re not alone.  In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, Sam Peters shares wisdom from The Heart of a Small Town Pastor, offering encouragement for leaders who are in it for the long haul. From building meaningful relationships to leading with patience and protecting your family, this conversation is a reminder that God is at work in the ordinary, everyday faithfulness of pastoral life. 

A healthy church isn’t just a tight-knit group of friends. It’s a place where all kinds of relationships can flourish. In this conversation, David Blackwell shares how insights from Dunbar’s Number invite rural church leaders to rethink size and connection, and how prioritizing weak, bridging relationships can help rural churches break down cliques, welcome outsiders, and embody the Gospel in place. Listeners will hear both a challenge and a roadmap for building more robust relational ecosystems that reflect the breadth of God’s community.Guest Info (title, bio, headshot, where to find them): David has served as the senior pastor of Florence-Carlton Community Church in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana for 19 years, and is passionate about helping develop church leaders and pastors for outwardly-focused, community-oriented ministry in small town and rural settings.Related Resources:The Church and Dunbar’s Number - https://seedbed.com/the-church-and-dunbars-number/Rural Churches Need More Weak Relationships - https://wheatonbillygraham.com/rural-churches-need-more-weak-relationships-by-carl-greene/Email us: [email protected]

Do movies actually reflect real-life ministry? Or do they miss the quiet tensions, complexities, and grace that leaders carry every day? In this episode of Rural Renewal, we take a different approach by reflecting on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. Beneath the mystery, the film raises questions about faith, leadership, public trust, and human frailty in close-knit communities. Whether you’ve seen the movie or not, this conversation invites you to think about how stories shape our understanding of church, calling, and renewal where life and faith intersect.

What if faithfulness in rural ministry isn’t about moving faster—but about listening longer?In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we hear from PJ and Melanie, two co-pastors planting a church in southwestern Virginia who have learned to let prayer, patience, and presence set the pace. They share honestly about discerning God’s leading, choosing slowness in a culture that rewards speed, and remaining open to change—even when it’s uncomfortable or costly. Their story is a reminder that deep roots are formed through intentional prayer, trust in God’s timing, and the courage to adapt for the sake of the people God has placed before us.

What happens when a rural church leans fully into the gifts of its landscape and the passions of its people? In this episode, we sit down with Clint and Steph Pearsall to explore how their congregation is building community through simple, heartfelt hospitality—from their wildly successful Hunters Dinner that gathers neighbors across generations, to creative outreach like inviting a local game warden to Vacation Bible School to spark kids’ curiosity and connection to the outdoors. Join us for a conversation full of laughter, storytelling, and fresh hope for ministry in the everyday rhythms of rural life.

In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we talk with Nanc Bourne and Malcolm Fowler about how a simple nudge from God grew into monthly community dinners that meet a real need in their rural town. What began with a few faithful people has become a lay-led ministry that’s strengthening relationships, feeding neighbors, and renewing the church’s mission.Their story shows how small steps—led by ordinary church members, not just pastors—can bear real fruit. If you’re longing to see your community thrive, this conversation offers hope and practical inspiration for what God can spark right where you are.

What happens when a heart for missions meets the quiet rhythms of rural life? In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we sit down with Tim Schwartz, a Pennsylvania pastor whose calling to short-term mission work has led him into all kinds of disaster relief efforts across the country. Tim shares how serving in places of crisis has reshaped his understanding of ministry and the local church.Now serving in a rural setting, Tim opens up about adjusting to small-town life—and how simple acts, like gathering with men for breakfast every week, have become spaces for real connection and transformation.Tim Schwartz lives in Cogan Station, PA with his wife, Jenn, and three children. He pastors Hepburn Baptist Church and works as the North Central PA Geographic Pastoral Servant for ABCOPAD.  He received his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at James Madison University and his Master of Divinity from Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary. Throughout his last 25 years of ministry, Tim has pastored churches, worked as an interim minister, and facilitated numerous mission trips in disaster recovery. Tim is an avid Philadelphia sports fan, well-experienced youth sports coach, cancer survivor, and enjoys chatting with people over lunch or coffee.Email us: [email protected]

What makes a rural church thrive in the face of challenges? In this conversation, we explore the strengths, creativity, and opportunities that rural churches carry into their communities—and how they can lean on faith to navigate the obstacles before them.Our guest is John Crowder, Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church in West, Texas, and author of the newly released Anchor Point: How to Lead with Faith, Find Strength, and Rebuild with Hope After Crisis. John shares his own story of faith—growing up, sensing God’s call to ministry, and eventually being called west to shepherd a rural congregation.Dr. John Crowder (DMin) is the Sr. Pastor of First Baptist Church of West, TX, where he has served for over thirty years. John helped his community recover after a massive explosion in 2013. Since then, he has spent a great deal of time studying disaster recovery. He has led multiple training sessions for pastors and has spoken on the subject many times in churches and civic organizations and wrote Anchor Point after a culmination of over a decade of experience, study, and working with others going through disaster recovery.Related Resources:Anchor Point: How To Lead with Faith, Find Strength, and Rebuild with Hope After CrisisEmail us: [email protected]

Retired pastor and ministry coach Dave Peppler shares lessons from over 20 years in rural ministry, from guiding a congregation through closure to helping churches rediscover their unique calling. He offers practical insights on pastoral health, the value of bi-vocational ministry, and trusting that the God who calls is always sufficient to equip.

In this episode, we hear from Jon in Florida and Greg in Virginia—two rural leaders using Dinner Church to reach their communities in powerful ways.Jon shares how a simple outdoor meal in a town of 700 became a bridge across division. Greg describes how his church now gathers at fairgrounds and homes, empowers lay leaders, and even partners globally—all through the table.From refugee connections to special needs ministries, these stories show how sharing food and faith can transform a community.

In this rich and reflective episode, we talk with pastor and author Brad Roth about the heart behind his latest book, Flyover Church. Brad shares a compelling vision for ministry in rural places—one grounded not in programs or performance, but in presence, patience, and the power of story.We explore the difference between task-based and presence-based ministry, how fear can lead us to misguided goals, and why both success and failure have something to teach the Church. Brad offers practical ways to "be with" our communities, how to navigate being an outsider, and why the stories we tell—of bounty and brokenness—matter deeply. Whether you're rooted in a rural church or simply longing for a deeper sense of place and purpose, this conversation offers encouragement, insight, and hope.

In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we sit down with David Blackwell for a candid conversation about one of the most important — and sometimes most challenging — parts of ministry: helping relationships move from social connection to spiritual depth.We don’t claim to have all the answers, but we share honest reflections, stories, and questions from our own experiences. This episode is more of an open-ended conversation than a how-to guide — a space to spark your own ideas and invite you into the dialogue.How do you help everyday conversations turn toward faith without feeling forced or awkward? What has worked in your context? We’d love to hear from you.

In this episode of Rural Renewal, Chris Morton shares simple, practical ways rural and small churches can improve their online presence—without needing a big budget or tech team.From claiming your Google listing to using Facebook like a town bulletin board, Chris explains how digital engagement today is the new front porch. You’ll learn why hospitality starts online, how to overcome assumptions people make about your church, and how a few small steps can make a big difference in helping people find—and feel welcome in—your church.This isn’t about going viral. It’s about being visible.

Dean Miller joins the podcast to share how churches can move from maintenance to mission—especially in rural and challenging contexts. Drawing on his pastoral experience, Dean encourages leaders to listen deeply, build community partnerships, and rethink success in ministry.He highlights stories of churches making a real difference by focusing on relationships, not just programs, and reminds us that innovation doesn’t require a big budget—just curiosity and courage. This episode offers practical encouragement for pastors feeling isolated, with a hopeful reminder: faithful presence matters, and God is still at work.

In this episode we explore leadership and mission in rural ministry.First, John Upton reflects on his journey from missionary work in Taiwan to leading the Baptist General Association of Virginia, emphasizing the importance of presence, trust, and adaptability in leadership.Next, Brandon Shook of Fusion USA discusses connecting college students with local churches, highlighting relational approaches and long-term investment in young adults.Together, these conversations offer insights into nurturing leadership and fostering intergenerational connections within rural communities.

What happens when a small-town church becomes a lifeline for mental health support? Since 2004, Corey Laughary has served as pastor in the rural community of Palouse, Washington, where he and his church have stepped into the mental health gap. In this episode, Corey shares how they’ve built a mental health ministry team, offered Youth Mental Health First Aid trainings, and equipped schools, agencies, and churches to care for their communities. Full of practical insights and hard-won hope, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone facing the realities of rural ministry and mental health care.

What happens when the church leaves the building? In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we hear from two sets of leaders who are reimagining church in unexpected places. Heather Jallad shares how Fresh Expressions are flourishing in rural spaces—around dinner tables, in parks, even barns—through simple, relational gatherings rooted in deep listening and trust. Then we head to Virginia, where Theresa Colomba and Tony Gray bring Church in the Park to life for people facing homelessness and addiction. Their stories remind us that presence matters more than polish, and that faithfulness in forgotten corners can bear incredible fruit. Get ready to be inspired by these stories of mission, mercy, and grassroots renewal.

In this episode, we explore two powerful stories of creative and faithful ministry.Russell Goodrich shares how Cape Charles Baptist Church went from near closure to becoming a vibrant community hub—serving over 130 kids each summer through Splash Camp and transforming lives through local partnerships.Amy Hall shares her journey from religious trauma to spiritual renewal, launching Shalom Creatives and Forest Church—spaces where art, nature, and community open doors to healing and connection.Two very different paths. One shared mission: joining God where He’s already at work.

What does it mean to dream big in a rural setting? In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, Tim Brown and Allen Jesse share how small-town churches can make a big impact. From disaster relief efforts after severe flooding to building networks for struggling rural pastors, they explore the power of community-driven ministry.Hear how Tim connects with first responders, how Allen’s church mobilized disaster relief teams, and how even a 90-year-old woman found purpose through simple acts of kindness. Discover how faith, perseverance, and collaboration can transform rural communities.

Engaging all ages in ministry is core to the work of the church, but the reality of rural life can make that complicated. In this episode, we’ll hear about creative ways to incorporate children and adults into the life of rural congregations, even in the face of declining populations and limited resources.Listen in to learn about how the “Messy Church” approach to multigenerational ministry plays out in rural churches from Trish Johnsen, Senior Pastor at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church in LaPorte, Indiana. You will also hear from Brad and Joanie Perry from Alabaster Grace Ministries, who provided the music for season two, about how their music came to be.

What can churches do in a culture known for its skepticism? Nestled between Seattle and the Olympic National Forest, Belfair Community Church focuses on consistent, small acts that reflect God’s love and goodness. In this inspiring interview, you’ll hear from A Culture of Scarcity And a God of Abundance: Leading a Church into a Bigger, Better, More Beautiful Story

What do you do when you know there are people in your small town who need a community and a place to learn about Jesus, but they aren’t coming to your church? Sharon White led her church through a process of listening for needs and opportunities in their small town of Waco, Ga. When they discovered a shared passion for Bluegrass music they prayed for God’s help to start something new. Today, in their town of barely 500, 100 people show up for the West Georgia Opry every weekend. Listen to hear the full story.Rev. Sharon White serves as Pastor of Waco UMC and Fresh Expressions Cultivator for the North Georgia Conference within the United Methodist Church. She feels called to minister to those on the fringe through acts of mercy and social justice andis passionate about finding creative ways to connect non-churchgoers to God. 

The stories of news media and Hollywood often focus on major coastal cities. But God is at work everywhere and the small towns and rural communities of North America are a testimony to God’s goodness.In this interview, Brad Roth, Mennonite pastor and award-winning author, shares about the importance of place, people watching and recognizing people for who God believes they can 

Most churches are “small churches,” but they don’t always get the attention, resources and support they need. In this episode, Senior Director Chris Backert shares what he sees happening across North America and the exciting things that can only happen in smaller congregations.

Of the challenges facing rural North America, health care remains one of the most pressing. What can local churches do to help? In this episode, Allen Stanton, author or Reclaiming Rural returns alongside Sidney Everhart to discuss how they've seen churches help their members and their communities stay healthy.

Robert Frazier might not be the first person you think of when you consider the needs of rural churches. Robert planted Redemption Hill, a network of microchurches in Boise, Idaho, and founded The City Network. However, Boise is the only major city in the region, and their ministry has expanded to the suburbs, exurbs, and rural areas in the two-hour vicinity.In this episode, Robert discusses the difference between being a "small" church and a "micro" church. He provides new insight into how churches of all sizes can approach discipleship and the unique strengths small and rural churches have. He also discusses how the ministry of rural churches makes a significant impact on cities.You'll also hear a bonus section where hosts Chris and Kathleen Blackey discuss their approach to building relationships.

Times change, but the same can’t always be said of churches. Why is it that some take risks and try new things, while others can’t seem to get unstuck?In this overwhelmingly encouraging conversation, Ron Johnston, Executive Director of Small Church Connections in Canada, shares practical steps pastors can take to build trust and cast vision with their congregations. You’ll also hear a refreshing and very personal approach to life-on-life discipleship. Listen in and gain new hope for your rural church.

Many rural church leaders are part-time or bi-vocational. With such high demands on their time, what does "excellent" preaching look like?Patricia Batten, Assistant Professor of Preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, provides encouragement and direction for rural church leaders doing their best with limited resources. She also shares her story of ministry among those with disabilities and explores what a more inclusive church experience could be.

With many rural areas declining in population, "growth" is an impossible goal. What should churches do instead?David Blackwell returns to the podcast to explore a more "relational" model of ministry. With a keen awareness of the average rural and small church, Blackwell outlines a realistic approach to leading a highly engaged and mission-driven church.David Blackwell has pastored Florence Carlton Church in Montana for nearly 20 years. His rural church reaches people from across their county with a variety of gatherings, expressions and outreach.

Should small, rural churches aim for excellence, authenticity, or both? Many well-known, usually large churches, are known to strive for "excellence" in their production of weekend worship. This can leave small churches, with fewer means, feeling like they have to keep up.Brandon O'Brien offers an alternative for small churches to aim instead to represent themselves and their faith authentically. This episode is perfect for rural church leaders seeking to create meaningful worship gatherings within their means and manpower.Brandon J. O'Brien is the senior director for content development and distribution at Redeemer City to City. He is the author or co-author of several books, including The Strategically Small Church and Misreading Scripture with Western Eyes. He lives with his wife and two kids in Chicago.

What do you think a rural church looks like? Listen to new ideas from real-life leaders who are reaching new people in places already accustomed to church. Featuring David Blackwell of Florence, Montana, Chris and Jaidy Smith from Ramseur, North Carolina and Allen Jessee from Abingdon, Virginia.Allen Jessee, is the Lead Pastor of Highlands Fellowship and has served in ministry since 1983. Allen has lived in Southwest Virginia his entire life. After graduating from Lebanon High School, he attended Emory and Henry College and received a degree in Chemistry. He continued his education at Liberty University, receiving his Master’s degree in Biblical Studies, graduated from Luther Rice Seminary with a Masters of Divinity degree and returned to Liberty University for his Doctorate of Ministry. Allen and his wife, Brenda, have five children; two are "homemade”, Martha and Joseph, and three are “heart-made”, Bella and Timmy from Ethiopia, and Chris. David came to Florence Carlton Church in Montana in 2005. He preaches, teaches, works with leaders, and enjoys getting to know people. “My greatest joy in ministry is watching the light of Christ come on in somebody’s eyes…when they say ’I can do this.’" David and his wife Beth married in 1985 and have been partners in ministry for 38 years.They are blessed with four children (and spouses) and five grandchildren. He loves music, 19th century American history, and any sport with a scoreboard. David earned his M.Div./R.E. from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, and was ordained in 1986.Chris and Jaidy Smith are a pastoral team serving in central North Carolina at Jordan Memorial UMC and La Luz De Cristo IMU. Jaidy was born and raised in Puerto Rico while Chris is a native North Carolinian, they met in Puerto Rico and began a life together nearly 14 years ago. Their marriage reflects two cultures coming together which is reflected in their ministry. Through their Fresh Expressions they seek ways to bridge cultural and language barriers in order to create spaces for authentic love based communities.Related Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023Join our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected] is a Fresh Expression? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hzPUqInrw-IDavid Blackwellhttps://www.florencecarltonchurch.com/Jaidymar Smithhttps://www.facebook.com/jaidymarhttps://www.instagram.com/jaidypr/Chris SmithJordanmemorial.orgAllen Jesseehttps://hf.church/

Rural church pastors preach and organize church programs. But sometimes they manage contractors, water pigs, and other things you might not expect. Join Lindsay Callaway from the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada in a discussion of how to prepare church for the unexpected opportunities in rural ministry.Lindsay Callaway has been with the EFC since 2019 and works as a researcher for the Centre for Research on Church and Faith. Lindsay has graduate degrees in systematic theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and bioethics from Trinity International University. She lives in Ottawa with her husband, who is a pastor, and their three children. Related Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023The podcast episode we referred to about our Family Faith Formation study is here if you want to link to it directly too: https://www.evangelicalfellowship.ca/Resources/Podcasts/Faith-Trends/Family-Faith-FormationShe has contributed tothe Parenting Faith study, learning how parents disciple their children in the home (final report releases March 15, 2023)the Canadian Evangelical Small Church Study, researching the life and experiences of small churches in Canadathe Faith Trends Podcast, where she is co-host. The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada: theefc.caLindsay Callaway’s email: [email protected] our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected]

Ministry in rural areas can have challenges, when it comes to resources. Listen to Marta share how she has addressed the needs of Latino community (especially with language barriers) in her town and advocate for them and how she has partnered with schools, libraries, and other organizations to connect with people in her community.Marta Sobrino Bolen, the pastor of Glenfield United Methodist Church, has started a ministry for Latinos called La Misión that helps Latino families in three areas: family, community, and spiritual growth. La Misión currently includes a tutoring program, a food pantry, a clothes pantry, reading and writing skills, spiritual growth, and support to families who have just arrived to the US. Related Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023Glenfield UMC Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100068987816208Join our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected]

What does it mean to be the church in a place where people come to vacation? Some small towns and less about Friday Night Lights and more about AirBnB. But what if it was possible not only to reach weekend warriors looking for recreation and the local population who live in small towns all year long. In this episode listen to discover different ways local churches seeking to revitalize their presence and they do it through play and outdoor adventure.Pamela Morse and her husband, Earle, have served as pastors of Sugarloaf Christian Ministry in Carrabassett Valley, Maine, since 1990. In that rural, but also resort setting, they raised two amazing boys who are now fully launched! Ordained through the ABC/USA she also serves as chair of the American Baptist Churches of Maine Committee on Ministry, overseeing and implementing standards of recognition for ministerial leadership in the region. The Ministry is also a partner with Skiers and Snowboarders for Christ, an organization devoted to reaching the ski and snowboard culture. A graduate of Bates College and Andover Newton Theological School, Pam also completed her Doctorate of Ministry at Portland Seminary under the mentorship of Leonard Sweet, focusing on Semiotics and Future Studies.Related Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023Pam Morse’s Dissertation: Roots, Routes, And Religion: Calling Playful Pilgrims To Follow The Way Of JesusHere’s the link to our amphitheater you might find interesting:  https://youtu.be/DXcg4pl3-3E    Here are some links you might find interesting for outdoor worship experiences:https://engageworship.orghttps://alpinechurch603.comhttps://www.wildchurchnetwork.comJoin our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected]

Doing ministry in rural areas is different from doing ministry in urban or suburban areas, but many books and conferences tend to be more helpful for larger population areas. In this episode listen to two denominational leaders provide their perspective on strengths and challenges for doing discipleship in rural churches.Dr. Leah Hidde-Gregory is an elder in the Global Methodist Church. During her ministry, she served in lay leadership, as a pastor and as a District Superintendent. Leah has a heart and passion for the mission of the church spending much of her ministry in church revitalization, revival and church growth. She holds a Doctorate in Ministry in Church Leadership Excellence; a Masters of Divinity; a Bachelors in Psychology / Sociology from Texas A&M. Dale Edwards is the Region Minister for American Baptist Churches of Vermont and New Hampshire. Before taking that role, he served 25 years as pastor of the First Baptist Church of Lebanon, NH. He is a graduate of Berkshire Christian College and Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. For hobbies Dale raises chickens and rabbits and collects old Moxie bottles (recent count of 68).Related Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023Newsletter from Leah Hidde-Gregoryhttps://www.midtexasgmc.org/Join our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected]

The word "rural" can bring to mind both bucolic and dilapidated images. But the truth is much more complicated! Discover how churches serve as anchors for small-towns, and new metrics for measuring success in this unique environment.In the first episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, you'll hear from Allen Stanton, an ordained pastor who currently manages a large initiative to expand access to dental care in rural areas and is author of Reclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations.Allen Stanton is an ordained pastor in the Western North Carolina Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. He currently serves in extension ministry, managing a large initiative to expand access to dental care in rural areas for the College of Dentistry at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Allen is the author of Reclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations (Rowman & Littlefield, 2021). Allen holds degrees from Wake Forest University and Duke University, and lives with his wife and two daughters in Tennessee.Rural Renewal Podcast is a part of the Rural Renewal Summit, an initiative of Fresh Expressions happening April 21-22. The summit is a two-day digital event exploring new possibilities for small-town Churches. Learn more at Rural Renewal Summit - Fresh ExpressionsRelated Resources:Rural Renewal Summit: A Two-Day Digital Event Exploring New Possibilities for Small-Town Churches - April 21 & 22, 2023Dividing Paradise: Rural Inequality and the Diminishing American Dream by Jennifer ShermanReclaiming Rural: Building Thriving Rural Congregations by Allen StantonUse RLFANDF30 for 30% off. Join our Facebook group: Rural Renewal Podcast CommunityEmail us: [email protected]

Revival is happening in small-town churches. Many of Jesus' followers across ruralregions are uncovering exciting possibilities as they explore creative and practical approaches to loving their neighbors. Hosted by rural church co-pastors, Chris and Kathleen Blackey, this new podcast from Fresh Expressions will introduce you to ministry leaders serving in rural contexts to provide examples and inspiration for being the Church and addressing the needs unique to your community.Rural Revival Podcast launches March 13. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.Rural Renewal Podcast is brought to you by the Rural Renewal Summit, a two-day digital event exploring new possibilities for small-town churches. The summit will bring together church leaders like Hugh Halter, Tim Thompson and Leah Hidde-Gregory, along with fresh expressions pioneers like Michael Beck, who are leading the church to do new and exciting things in small-town North America. The Rural Renewal Summit will take place on April 21 and 22, and is designed for individuals and church leaders to participate, on their own, or with their team. Register before March 1 to get the early bird price. Rural Renewal Summit - Fresh Expressions