Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast

In this episode of the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast, we explore the quiet but powerful theme of feeling like an imposter—especially in the unique spaces women navigate cross-culturally. Through an honest and hope-filled conversation with Jenn Chang, we unpack the tension between calling and doubt, confidence and comparison, and the ways imposter syndrome can take root in our stories.Jenn shares from her own leadership journey, offering insight, language, and encouragement for women who wonder if they truly belong in the spaces God has placed them. This conversation is an invitation to name what feels hidden, to release comparison, and to step more fully into the person God created you to be.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about Yield Leadership CoachingThe Mission Leaders BlogBlog posts on Women in LeadershipCheck out the Velvet Ashes Membership Community

What are you listening to in the midst of all the noise?The world hums with urgency, headlines, and endless voices—yet beneath it all, there is a quieter invitation: to listen for what is true, steady, and unseen.In this episode, we sit with the weight many are carrying and the sacred practice of tuning our hearts again.We also step into the story of John and Betty Stam—a story marked by courage, surrender, and a faith that echoes far beyond their years.A story that asks us: what does it look like to listen… and to trust… with open hands?Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about our Online Retreat for this year, Listen: Hear My VoiceCheck out Andrew's book, By Life or by Death: The Life and Legacy of John and Betty StamThe new Velvet Ashes book, Yet We Still Laugh, is available on ⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠⁠Barnes & Noble

What does it really mean to retreat?In this month’s episode, the entire Velvet Ashes team — Denise Beck, Danielle Wheeler, and Sarah Hilkemann — gathers for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the heart, history, and hope of Velvet Ashes retreats.What started years ago as a simple experiment — an online invitation for women scattered across the globe to step away and meet with God — has grown into a sacred annual rhythm for cross-cultural workers worldwide. In this episode, you’ll hear how retreat first began, how it has evolved over the years, and why it continues to matter so deeply.Danielle shares the heart behind this year’s theme: learning to recognize and respond to God’s voice. In a world filled with noise, fear, and competing messages, so many women ask: How do I know it’s really Him? This retreat gently and honestly explores that longing — creating space to sift through distractions, confusion, and doubt so we can listen more deeply to the One who is always speaking. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Want to go deeper with the Velvet Ashes community? Learn more about Friends, Circle and Inner Circle levels of membership connection here. Register for this year's Listen Online Retreat.

What does a faithful life look like when the fruit isn’t always visible right away? In this month’s episode, Sarah talks with Jeff Barker about the life of Arlene Schuiteman—a Midwest farm girl whose quiet yes to God carried her across Africa and shaped generations to come. Listen in and be reminded that God is always at work, even when we can’t yet see it.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about how to be part of the Velvet Ashes communityCheck out Jeff's books about Arlene on Amazon: Sioux Center Sudan, Iowa Ethiopia, Zambia Home, and Whispers from the Lord: A Missionary Nurse's JournalPerformance of Sioux Center Sudan, a play written about Arlene's lifePerformance of Iowa Ethiopia, a play about another part of Arlene's lifeThe new Velvet Ashes book, Yet We Still Laugh, is available on ⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Barnes & Noble

What happens when everything that once defined you—your strength, your calling, your ability to serve—falls away?In this episode of the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast, Denise and Sarah sit down with Joy, a former medical global worker and physician assistant whose life and ministry were radically reshaped after severe illness brought her fast-paced, highly productive life to a sudden halt. What followed was a long, painful wilderness season marked by loss, waiting, and deep questions about identity, worth, and God’s goodness.This conversation is an invitation to anyone who feels stripped, sidelined, or unsure of who they are when they can no longer “do.” It’s a reminder that the wilderness is not punishment—but a place where God meets us with comfort, identity, and surprising goodness.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about the ⁠2026 In-Person Tuscany Retreat That Sounds Fun Episode 1021The Uninvited Companion: God's Shaping Us in His Love Through Life's Adversities by Scott Shaum

This month on the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast, Denise and Sarah open the episode with a joyful December check-in and a little book talk—because what better way to start a conversation than with reading rhythms and favorite formats from our community?But the heart of this episode is something deeply special. Sarah sits down with her former professor, Rick Clark, to talk about the extraordinary life and legacy of his mother, Marian Clark. Marian grew up in Ecuador, returned as an adult to serve with creativity and courage, and became a faithful presence through radio, television, storytelling, and hospitality. Her story intersects with key moments in missions history, but it also shines in the quiet, steady ways she loved people and followed Jesus.It’s a moving, tender conversation—full of rich history, surprising connections, and a beautiful reminder of what it looks like to echo God’s joy and faithfulness through generations.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about the 2026 In-Person Tuscany Retreat Check out the Advent Mini-Advent Learn about Marian ClarkThe History of HCJB Radio The new Velvet Ashes book, Yet We Still Laugh, is available on ⁠Amazon⁠ and ⁠Barnes & Noble

What if rest isn’t a reward after burnout—but part of how God designed us to live and serve?This month on the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast, Denise talks with Nathan and Tricia LaGrange of Oasis Rest International—a ministry offering safe spaces of renewal for global workers around the world. 🌍They share how God gave them a vision for helping others find true rest—body, mind, and soul.Tune in and be reminded: rest is not selfish. It’s sacred.Also Denise and Sarah chat about the theme of Table for this month, airplane etiquette, and more. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about Oasis Rest InternationalServantCareThe Velvet Ashes Unplugged Retreat: Refuge in the Wilderness The new Velvet Ashes book, Yet We Still Laugh, is available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble

This month we’re welcoming a new theme song and diving into stories of resilience, refuge, and calling. Denise and Sarah share favorite cross-cultural kitchen gadgets (yes, rice cookers and electric kettles make the list!) and talk about creating safe spaces when home doesn’t always feel safe. They highlight upcoming Velvet Ashes events—including the Equip Conference and the Unplugged Retreat—designed to support global women in the wilderness seasons of life.Plus, Sarah sits down with author Rachel Pieh Jones to explore the remarkable, challenging life and legacy of Italian aid worker Annalena Tonelli, whose work fighting tuberculosis and empowering communities in Africa continues to inspire.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Doxology of Mercy" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Learn more about Rachel Pieh JonesRachel's book about Annalena, Stronger Than DeathRachel will be speaking at the Somali Kayd Festival in London, England about Annalena's life and work on October 20, especially focusing on her work with the deaf community. Learn more here. Learn more about the Equip Conference and our other resources at https://grow.velvetashes.com/.

Denise and Sarah kick things off with something lighthearted—our recent Instagram poll on pen preference. Yes, pens! Because sometimes delighting in the little things—like whether you love a bold gel pen or a fine-tip ballpoint—really does matter.Then we’ll turn to something deeper as we hear Dawn’s story from Italy. She shares how God has been at work in her life and how attending the Velvet Ashes In-Person Retreat opened the door for her to say yes to sabbatical. You won’t want to miss this beautiful reminder of God’s invitation to rest and renewal.We want to share more of your stories this season on the Legacy podcast! Do you have a story of a way you have seen God work? A way he has brought comfort or joy in a hard season? A cool answer to prayer? Email us at [email protected] if you are interested in sharing your story on a future podcast! Sign up for the VA Monthly NewsletterCheck out the ⁠Re-entry Retreat⁠Find out more about this year's ⁠Equip Conference⁠ Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.List of people's favorite pens from our recent poll: S-GelsZebra fine pointSharpie fine tipG2 .038Pentel RSVPBIC fine point ballpointFelt tipSharpie gel 0.38Sharpie S-Gel 0.7Papermate Ink Joy (many colors)Bic Cristal Xtra Life ballpoint - blueG2 (cheaper pens)Lamy fountain penPilot precise v5 RT 0.5Sharpie gel penZebra Z grip retractableG2 gel penLePenClip Click IncMr PensBic click stickSharpie S-Gel .07 mm medium tipPentel black pensJapanese Frixion pensPapermate Profile

God has woven the language of story into the fabric of Scripture, inviting us into His grand narrative of redemption. And here we are, in the middle. The middle of our own stories, with all their beauty, brokenness, questions, and quiet miracles.We want to share more of your stories this upcoming season on the Legacy podcast! Do you have a story of a way you have seen God work? A way he has brought comfort or joy in a hard season? A cool answer to prayer? Email us at [email protected] if you are interested in sharing your story on a future podcast! Check out the Re-entry RetreatFind out more about this year's Equip Conference Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode, we explore the remarkable life and legacy of F. Grace Allen, a little-known but deeply influential Free Methodist global worker who spent 53 years serving in Southern Africa. Born in 1864 to a devout Methodist family, Grace’s calling to the mission field led her to Portuguese East Africa and later to Fairview Mission Station in South Africa, where she built a home and school for marginalized girls. Through decades of hardship, cultural challenges, and personal sacrifice, she nurtured and educated generations of African children, many of whom became pastors, teachers, and leaders. With heartfelt stories drawn from archival research, we reflect on Grace’s deep faith, her pioneering spirit, and the enduring impact of her humble, behind-the-scenes service—reminding us that legacy often grows quietly through a life poured out in love.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight.

In this episode, Sarah and Denise dive into the complicated nature of home—how it shifts, stretches, and sometimes splinters as we live across cultures. Drawing from their own experiences around the world, they reflect on what it means to belong, how home can be more of a feeling than a place, and the surprising ways God meets us in the in-between. Whether you're longing for home, rebuilding it, or redefining it, this conversation will resonate deeply.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by EineBlume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

In this episode of the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast, we welcome Dr. Kendal P. Mobley to explore the life and legacy of Helen Barrett Montgomery — a pioneering educator, preacher, translator, and leader in the early women’s missionary movement. Dr. Mobley shares stories from Helen’s childhood, her passion for social reform in Rochester, and her deep commitment to missions as a form of Kingdom work. We also take a thoughtful look at the complexities of her legacy, including the racial and cultural blind spots of her era. Tune in to be inspired by a woman who believed deeply in the power of the gospel to transform not just souls, but society — and whose influence still echoes today.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight.Find the first edition of Dr. Mobley's book on Amazon and watch for the revised edition coming soon! BU School of Theology Bio on HelenArchived versions of Helen's books

In this episode, Cindy Wu shares her journey of faith and service, exploring the intersection of cross-cultural work, hospitality, and justice. With a heart for the marginalized and a deep understanding of cross-cultural ministry, Cindy unpacks what it means to welcome the stranger and embody the love of Christ in tangible ways. Join us as we discuss her experiences, the lessons she's learned, and how we can all cultivate a spirit of hospitality and compassion in our daily lives.Cindy is also one of the retreat leaders for the 2025 Velvet Ashes Online Retreat! It isn't too late to register and access the amazing teaching and resources in this year's retreat. Learn more about the retreat here. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by EineBlume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Rev. Cindy M. Wu is co-founder and Director of Diaspora Ministries of Mosaic Formation, a Christian non-profit she co-directs with her husband, David. Additionally, she mobilizes Christians to welcome refugees, a true passion of hers. As a “pastor to pastors,” her ministry focuses on serving the city and church at-large through community organizing, spiritual direction, leading workshops and retreats, and cross-cultural training.Cindy is author or co-author of books and articles on global Christian identity, religious demography, and refugee welcome (browse publications here). She also delves some into poetry.Cindy is based in Houston, TX, and is ordained to word and service with the Evangelical Covenant Church. She enjoys global cuisine, historical fiction, (short) triathlons, and thunderstorms.Connect with Cindy at cindymwu.com.

This month on the Legacy Podcast, we explore the extraordinary life of Volahavana Germaine, known as “Nenilava.” Her bold faith and unwavering spirit carried herthrough immense challenges as she ministered in Madagascar and beyond.Guiding us through her story is Reverend Dimbiniaina H. Randrianasulu—Reverend Andry—an ordained clergy in the Lutheran Church of Madagascar and Nenilava’s godson. His personal connection and deep insights offer a unique perspective on her impact.Join us as we uncover the historical and spiritual significance of Nenilava’s legacy, a story that continues to inspire and encourage today.Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music!We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight.Since 2005, Rev. Andry has been an ordained clergy in the Lutheran Church of Madagascar. Previously, in 1996  after two years of training he was certified and commissioned as a mpiandry (shepherd), a Malagasy Lutheran ministry concept whereby a person is certified and commissioned to function in three main ways: 1) as an evangelist, 2) as a= mission-doer, and 3) as an exorcist. The duties and functions of mpiandry include evangelism, spiritual counseling, mission work, exorcism, and healing ministry. Rev. Andry spent two years serving in a remote part of the island nation. He has also served as parish pastor and the Deputy Director of theMalagasy Lutheran Regional Seminary in southeastern Madagascar. He was a professor and taught courses on Lutheran Practical Theology and Church Ministryat the same school. Rev. Andry is currently a PhD candidate in the Intercultural Studies program at Asbury Theological Seminary, with a concentration in evangelism and discipleship.

Have you ever found yourself thinking, “I’m just not cut out for this cross-cultural life. I’m not like [insert the name of a global worker from the past or someone on your team].” On this month’s podcast we get to hear from Sue Eenigenburg, author and long-time global worker. She shares honestly about how she didn’t feel like she fit the cross-cultural worker mold, yet she consistently said yes to the Lord through the years. Sue tells us some sweet stories of God’s faithfulness to her and through her. Sue is the author of several books specifically for women serving cross-culturally including Screams in the Desert and her most recent book Bags Packed, Hearts Ready. We hope you are encouraged as you listen to Sue’s living legacy story! Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Sue Eenigenburg has been in cross-cultural ministry since 1986. She has lived on four different continents seeking to love and serve God. In August 2025, she and her husband will celebrate 47 years of marriage. Their clan includes four kids, their spouses, and twelve grandkids. She is the author of Screams in the Desert and More Screams, Different Deserts. Sue co-authored Expectations and Burnout, Sacred Siblings, and Grit to Stay Grace to Go. Her latest book, Bags Packed, Hearts Ready is filled with stories about God's faithfulness. Each year she grows more and more thankful for God's grace and kindness. Sue’s books Sue’s blog  Follow Sue on Facebook or Instagram

We have a powerful legacy story to share with you this month! When our special guest, Rev. Dr. Grace Rajan, first learned the story of Ada Jones Lee, she was sad that more people didn't know about this family that ministered in her home country of India. Ada's story includes the tragic loss of six of her children. Dr. Rajan shares beautifully about the faith of Ada and her family, and we hope you will be impacted by their story. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight. The Diarjeeling Disaster, It's Bright Side: The Triumph of the Six Lee Children by Ada Lee Blog Post written by Rev. Dr. Grace Rajan about Ada Lee We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

What does it take to stay when just the calling to global work isn’t enough? This month Jody opens up about her winter season of the soul. She shares vulnerably about the weight of the cost of this cross-cultural life, the gift of obscurity, and how Jesus met her beautifully in the wilderness. Don’t miss hearing Jody’s story on this month’s Legacy podcast! Learn more about ⁠Velvet Ashes We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Invited Retreat - God's invitations in different seasons of the soul Velvet Ashes Spiritual Directors Velvet Ashes Olive Retreat

Mary Lane Clarke (1872-1970) was a teacher, linguist, Bible translator, author, and global worker to the very end of her long life. She and her husband served in Sierra Leone, where she was part of making Scripture available in the heart language of the people. Hear from our Velvet Ashes Resident Scholar, Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer, as she shares more of Mary's story this month. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight. Article about the legacy of Mary and her husband George Clarke We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

This month, Denise is joined by Stephanie Gutierrez, host of the Modern Day Missionaries podcast. In this episode, they discuss Stephanie’s work in equipping global workers, her recent favorite guests, and the impact of her family’s transition off the field. Stephanie also shares about the new roles she and her husband have embraced in this next season of life. Learn more about Stephanie Modern Day Missionaries Podcast Learn more about Velvet Ashes Check out the Equip Conference MDM podcast with Russell Moore MDM podcast with Rob Hoskins Footrock All Terrain Marriage We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Cross-cultural life can be challenging, but laughter has a way of lightening the load and keeping hope alive. In this episode, Denise and Sarah chat with Katelyn Comer from the Velvet Ashes Instagram team, the creative mind behind our beloved Friday Funnies. Katelyn shares some fun behind-the-scenes stories and reflects on the importance of humor in her life. Plus, Denise and Sarah give us a sneak peek into the next exciting Velvet Ashes book project. Don't miss out on the joy and inspiration in this episode! Katelyn, along with her husband Aaron, and kids Addie (15) and Dean (12), serve in the island country of St Kitts and Nevis. They have been working in recovery and prison ministry, as well as pastoring an international church full of mostly medical and veterinary students. Katelyn loves beach days, any kind of time with friends, and laughing as much as possible. She has been volunteering for Velvet Ashes for nearly 7 years, and is honored to be a part of the team in such a unique way - Instagram Friday Funnies. Follow Katelyn on Instagram Follow Velvet Ashes on Instagram or Facebook and look for more information about book submissions opening soon, or email [email protected]. Yet We Still Hope book

This was such a fun conversation with Karli - composting toilets, the beauty of Florence, when you don't love where you live, and so much more. Karli Von Herbulis is a joyful wife, blessed mama, and resident of Kigali, Rwanda. You can find her zipping through books, cooking a fun meal, or podcasting at Third Culture Thriving. Resources mentioned in this podcast: Third Culture Thriving Summer Live Featuring Karli EMDR therapy definition Taking Route Thrive Retreats VA Spiritual Directors Valeo TCT episodes on hiring house help - 7 & 9 Karli's blog posts

Streams in the Desert was published in 1924 and has never gone out of print. This devotional was written by Lettie Burd Cowman (1870-1960), an incredible woman who helped found OMS and eventually served as its president. Learn more about Lettie's story this month from our special guest, Michelle Ule! Michelle Ule is the author of two biographies: Overflowing Faith: Lettie Cowman and Streams in the Desert and Mrs. Oswald Chambers: The Woman Behind the World’s Bestselling Devotional. She is also an essayist, a long-time blogger, and a bestselling author of inspirational historical novellas. A 40-year Bible study teacher in various Christian settings and denominations, she studied English Literature at UCLA and trained as a reporter. Michelle is also an amateur genealogist. She lives with her family in Northern California. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight. Michelle's website includes more information and links to learn more about Lettie Cowman. We are grateful to ⁠⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠.

When Amy Young sent out an anonymous survey in January 2024, over 350 global workers responded. She asked this question, "Is there something you feel might jeopardize you staying on the field, if your senders or organization knew about it?" Amy joined Denise this month to talk about the results of the survey, and the importance of both senders and goers talking about the hard things we often don't tackle. Amy Young, MA, LPC loves a good story. She served in China for nearly 20 years (plenty of stories there!), cofounded Velvet Ashes, and founded Global Trellis. As the founder Global Trellis, her current story involves helping Great Commission workers have tended souls and growing skill sets. Amy is a sought-after speaker and has spoken hundreds of times around the globe. Amy’s written six books for Great Commission workers including Looming Transitions and Becoming More Fruitful in Cross-Cultural Work. She loves all things Denver Broncos, Kansas Jayhawks, and Diet Coke. We are grateful to ⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Global Trellis Senders Webinar and Discussion Guide Global Trellis Goers Webinar Taking Down the Ministry Pedestal We recommend Barnabas or Valeo for counseling options specifically for global workers.

We are so grateful for Betsy's honesty and courage as she shares her story of her husband's porn addiction. We trust this episode will leave you filled with hope, whether you are married or single, on the field or off. While not graphic, this episode isn't suitable for little ears. We also know Betsy's story and this topic might be triggering, so all the grace to you to listen when you are ready. Please see the notes below for resources. We are grateful to ⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. Learn more about ⁠⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Betsy's Recommended Resources - books, podcasts, and counseling options

The story of the spread of the gospel in China can't be told without the women who were really the driving force behind the movement. But all too often, their legacies are lost to the pages of history. We are so grateful to our guest this month, Dr. Daryl Ireland, for honoring these special women and helping us understand the history and context for their stories. This episode is special because Daryl is our first male guest on the podcast! Don't miss our bonus episode for this month, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the Velvet Ashes Retreat. Learn more about the retreat HERE. Learn more about ⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight. Learn more about the Chinese Bible Women Dora Yu (Yu Cidu) Mary Stone (Shi Meiyu , 石美玉) Biographical Dictionary of Chinese Christianity Article about the Chinese Bible Women in Christianity Today Pioneer Chinese Christian Women Silas Wu, Dora Yu and the Christian Revival in 20th-Century China. We are grateful to ⁠⁠Barnabas International⁠⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

The Velvet Ashes Online Retreat creates sacred space for you and Jesus. This month we are bringing you a special bonus episode of the podcast where Denise sits down with Danielle Wheeler, Velvet Ashes Director of Spiritual Development. Danielle gives you a peek behind the curtain as she shares the intentional way these retreats are curated. April is retreat month and we can't wait to see what God has in store. It's not too late to join! Learn more at velvetashes.com. Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Polyvagal Chart From Broken to Beloved: A Journey of Awakening by Terry Wardle

This is one of those "we're going there" conversations. Denise and Sarah invite you in as they cover topics like spiritual abuse, wilderness seasons, harm caused in missions, and whether the good news is still good. We want to create safe space for you if you have also wrestled with questions and haven't felt like you have someone to share them with. Join us at our virtual coffee shop for this conversation. We are grateful to ⁠Barnabas International⁠ for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them ⁠here⁠. Learn more about ⁠⁠Velvet Ashes⁠⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠⁠iTunes⁠⁠ or wherever you get music! Savior Complex The Mission Through Gates of Splendor Spiritual Abuse webinar Gen Z webinar Story of Paul and Silas in Prison - Acts 16 Dr. Lauren Pinkston - Kindred Exchange Wilderness conversations on Velvet Ashes Episode 20 Conversation with Jen Mobilizing Gen Z book Velvet Ashes Olive Retreat

It is the type of phone call you hope you never have to make. "Mom, I've been arrested." In this month's Living Legacy episode, Jen takes us through her experiences of being on trial in her host country. She shares honestly about the ripple effects our own surrender can have on those around us and brings encouragement for anyone who is walking through a wilderness season. This episode is a rich treasure! We are grateful to Barnabas International for sponsoring this podcast! Barnabas is a member care organization that shepherds global workers and trains global shepherds. Learn more about them here. Learn more about ⁠Velvet Ashes⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠Facebook⁠ or ⁠Instagram ⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠iTunes⁠ or wherever you get music! If you are a global worker in need of counseling while on the field, also check out the organization Valeo.

This month we had the special privilege of hearing from Miriam Rockness, biographer of missionary Lilias Trotter (1853-1928). Lilias was a beautiful artist who studied under John Ruskin, the foremost art critic of the day and a monumental and influential figure. She surrendered fame to follow Jesus to Algeria, where she served until her death. Miriam brings Lilias to life and it was a treat to hear from her. We hope you enjoy learning more about Lilias Trotter! Learn more about ⁠Velvet Ashes⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠Facebook⁠ or ⁠Instagram ⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠iTunes⁠ or wherever you get music! Get in touch with Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer at [email protected] to share thoughts on Legacy stories or suggest a woman to highlight. Learn more about Lilias Trotter - Lilias Trotter website with many different resources - Lilias Trotter documentary called Many Beautiful Things - A Passion for the Impossible by Miriam Rockness - Lilias' writing inspired the hymn "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus" - Lilias Trotter writing and art

This is probably the longest title we've ever had! We wanted to capture the depths of this conversation, but a title really doesn't cut it. Take our word for it, this episode is so good! Denise sat down with Jenny Erlingsson, an author and global worker in Iceland, to talk about her writing journey and the ways she has wrestled with her income-generating giftings while raising support. She talks about how God affirmed her calling to write and confirmed it through others around her. Do you ever wrestle with the complicated and beautiful layers of raising support? Do you wonder if it is okay to take time to do fun and life-giving things that don't count as "ministry"? This conversation is for you! Jenny's first novel is coming out in June 2024! You can pre-order Her Part to Play on Amazon. Learn more about Jenny on her website or on Instagram. Learn more about ⁠Velvet Ashes⁠ Follow Velvet Ashes on ⁠Facebook⁠ or ⁠Instagram ⁠ Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on ⁠iTunes⁠ or wherever you get music!

From California to Cornwall, with a meet-cute with Denise's family in Uganda, Sarah Yardley is following Jesus on a journey of faithfulness and love. Sarah grew up at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa in California, served at Reality Carpinteria, and currently serves as the Mission Lead for Creation Fest UK. She regularly contributes to Lectio 365, wrote More > Change, and often travels to share the good news of the God who loves us. She is daily discovering what it means to follow Jesus and inviting others to know and follow Him. May you be inspired by this month's Living Legacy conversation with Sarah. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Books mentioned: The Joy of Listening to God by Joyce Huggett Finding God in all Things by William Barry Sarah Yardley transcript

Maria Gerber (1858-1917) was a Swiss missionary to Turkey. She worked with orphans during the Armenian Genocide, with a front row seat to incredible tragedy but also beautiful transformation. Listen in as Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer shares more of Maria's amazing story on this month's podcast! Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Learn more about Maria Gerber - Read her story from the Flower Pentecostal Heritage Center - Locate a library with a copy of Maria's book

70% of today's global workers on the field are women, and many serve as team leaders, regional directors and also in unseen ways right where they are. In our first topical discussion on the podcast, we wanted to talk about the challenges and joys of serving in leadership. This episode features two conversations, one from the perspective of a single woman and one from a woman who is married. We hope you are encouraged by all that they shared. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Shoulder to Shoulder Ministry Episode 15 Transcript

Welcome to Season 2 of the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast! This month we get to hear from Ruth Potinu as she shares about growing up on the missions field, the fun way she met her husband, and finding community where she now serves with her family in Papua New Guinea. Ruth is honest about grief and hope and we think you will walk away encouraged after you hear her story. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Ruth is the author of Permission to Mourn: Engaging with Culture, Story and Scripture in a Quest for Healing with Hope. She works alongside her husband and three children in Papua New Guinea where they seek to minister to the vulnerable, especially widows and their children. She loves a good cup of chai, connecting with friends and writing whenever she can carve out the time.   You can follow her on Facebook , Instagram or at her blog Simply Contemplating. Episode 14 Transcript

We are so excited to bringing you a brand new season of the Velvet Ashes Legacy Podcast! Tune in to hear about what you can expect in Season 2. Season 2 Trailer Transcript Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music!

Lillian Trasher (1887-1961) left her fiancée practically at the altar to say yes to God's call to Egypt. Despite those who didn't believe her care for orphans counted as "real missionary work", she trusted God and lived out everyday faithfulness in all she did. Learn more about Lillian in the podcast this month! Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Lillian Trasher Episode Transcript Learn more about Lillian Trasher Letters from Lillian Flower Pentecostal Heritage Center The Nile Mother Documentary

Amanda Berry Smith (1837-1915) was born enslaved in the United States. Though much of her life was marked by suffering, she impacted many through her itinerant preaching, singing and sharing Jesus around the world. Learn more about this fascinating woman in the podcast this month! Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Amanda Berry Smith Episode Transcript Learn more about Amanda Berry Smith Summary of Amanda's story

Pandita Ramabai (1858-1922) was an Indian Christian scholar, social reformer, and a spiritual seeker. She overcame immense challenges, including losing her family to starvation and becoming a widow at a very young age. Through it all she pursued a deeper relationship with Christ and lived a life of faith as she advocated for better treatment for women in India and shared Christ with young girls. She was even commemorated in India on a postage stamp for her work! We hope you enjoy learning about this amazing woman. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Pandita Ramabai Episode Transcript Learn more about Pandita Ramabai Summary of Pandita Ramabai's life Ramabai Sarasvati, Pandita. The High-Caste Hindu Woman. New York: F. H. Revell, 1901. Dyer, Helen S. Pandita Ramabai: The Story of Her Life. New York: Fleming H. Revell Co., 1900. Butler, Clementina. Pandita Ramabai Sarasvati: Pioneer in the Movement for the Education of the Child-Widow of India. New York: Fleming H. Revell company, 1922. Learn about Minnie Abrams

Clementina Rowe Butler (1820-1913) was a Methodist missionary who helped start the American Women’s Missionary Movement. This woman knew what it was like to deal with the complicated concept of "home". We are joined by Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer as she brings her expertise and experience in sharing about Clementina's life. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Clementina Rowe Butler Episode Transcript Learn more about Clementina Article about the life of Clementina American Women in Mission by Dana L. Robert

This is one you guys have been asking for! Ann Judson (1789-1826) was one of the first American female foreign missionaries. She and her husband first went to India with the American Board and then to Burma (Myanmar) as a Baptist missionary. While her story is full of suffering, her trust in Jesus and resiliency has inspired courage in others for many years. This month we are joined by Dr. Laura Chevalier Beer as she brings her expertise and experience in sharing Ann's story.  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Ann Judson Episode Transcript Learn more about Ann Judson Short article from BU School of Theology Ann Judson Memoir American Women in Mission by Dana L. Robert

After being freed from slavery, Betsey Stockton (1798-1865) made her way to the Sandwich Islands (Hawaii) to serve as a missionary. She thought it would be forever, yet it didn't work out that way. She made an impact through her quiet persistence, determination and love of education that she passed on wherever she could. We hope you enjoy this month's Legacy podcast.  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Betsey Stockton Episode Transcript The Education of Betsey Stockton: An Odyssey of Slavery and Freedom by Gregory Nobles Missionaries You Should Know article about Betsey Stockton

You might love Elisabeth Elliot (1926-2015), or you might respect her but aren't sure you like her very much. While she is best known for her time as a missionary with the Waodani people in Ecuador and the loss of her husband there, she was also a sought-after speaker and prolific writer. We cover all these different aspects of this strong, determined woman in this podcast episode and hope that you'll come away impacted by her heart for the Lord.  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Our favorite biography about Elisabeth Elliot: Becoming Elisabeth Elliot by Ellen Vaughn  Books by Elisabeth Elliot  Timeline of her life Interview with Elisabeth and her husband Lars Gren on the Family Life Today radio show 

Amy Carmichael (1867-1951) is a hero for so many people who were inspired by her story. She was also quirky, determined and an ordinary woman who struggled and experienced loneliness and all the things we so often go through today. Enjoy learning a bit more about her life in this podcast episode!  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Amy Carmichael Episode Transcript  Scriptures mentioned: 1 Corinthians 3:12-14, Daniel 12:3 Check out these resources:  Books by Amy Carmichael  A Chance to Die: The Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael by Elisabeth Elliot  The Story of Amy Carmichael on YouTube Timeline of Amy's Life

Helen Roseveare (1925-2016) was a doctor and teacher for many years in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her story is full of challenges and trauma, but hope shines through in every part of her life. Learn more about the kind and passionate Dr. Helen Roseveare in this episode!  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Helen Roseveare episode transcript  Scriptures mentioned: Philippians 3:10, 2 Chronicles 24:4 Check out these resources: Helen's books  Helen's memorial service  Interview with Helen (YouTube) Podcast Interview with Helen 

Betty Greene (1920-1997) impacted missions aviation history in a big way! Learn more about her experiences as a Women Airforce Service Pilot (WASP), her adventures in South America, Africa and Southeast Asia, and her humility and calm in the midst of the challenges of being a woman in a man's world. We hope you will be inspired to keep learning about this amazing woman!  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Betty Greene episode transcript  Check out these resources:  Learn more about Mission Aviation Fellowship MAF Documentary Ends of the Earth Betty Greene: Wings to Serve (Christian Heroes Then and Now series) by Janet and Geoff Benge We are grateful to MAF for access to excerpts from Giving Wings to the Gospel by Dietrich Buss and Arthur Glasser  Flying High: The Amazing Story of Betty Greene and the Early Years of Mission Aviation Fellowship by Betty Greene and Dietrich Buss (not currently in print but we found used copies online) 

You may know Corrie Ten Boom from The Hiding Place, but this represents just one small part of a very rich life. In this episode you'll hear more about her strong family ties and heritage, the ways God worked in her life following her time in a prison camp during World War 2, and her obedient steps to share the Gospel and power of forgiveness around the world. Corrie was an amazing woman and we can't wait to tell you more of her story!  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Corrie Ten Boom episode transcript Books we read and loved:  The Hiding Place In My Father's House Tramp for the Lord 

There was so much we wanted to tell you about the life and legacy of Isobel Kuhn that we split up this episode into two parts. Don't miss Part 1 where we share about her life before she got to the field and her initial years in China. Isobel was honest about both the joys and struggles of cross-cultural life. A big part of her legacy is her beautiful writing captured in the many books she authored. We hope you are encouraged by her story! Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Part 2 Transcript Scriptures mentioned: Psalm 91:1 Isaiah 46:9-10 Resources to learn more about Isobel Kuhn Timeline of Isobel's Life Isobel's Letters from Lisu Land Nests Above the Abyss Stones of Fire  More books by Isobel can be found on Amazon

There was so much we wanted to tell you about the life and legacy of Isobel Kuhn that we split up this episode into two parts. Don't miss Part 2 of her story!  Isobel was honest about both the joys and struggles of cross-cultural life. A big part of her legacy is her beautiful writing captured in the many books she authored. We hope you are encouraged by her story!  Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Part 1 Transcript Scriptures mentioned:  1 Peter 5:7-9 Ezekiel 34:6 John 10:16 Resources to learn more about Isobel Kuhn Timeline of Isobel's Life Isobel's Letters from Lisu Land By Searching by Isobel Kuhn - her story of faith and preparing to go overseas More books by Isobel can be found on Amazon

Did you know that Lottie Moon was only four feet, three inches tall, or that she was a major advocate for furloughs for global workers? While you may recognize her because of the Christmas offering that bears her name, this determined and courageous woman has left an incredible, far-reaching impact. In this episode, Denise and Sarah share about Lottie’s childhood, calling overseas, and her work in China from 1873 until her death in 1912. What can we learn from this feisty woman? We can’t wait to hear what you think about this story of Lottie Moon. Learn more about Velvet Ashes Follow Velvet Ashes on Facebook or Instagram  Follow Denise and Sarah Featured music is "Daughters and Sons" by Eine Blume. Check out more from them on iTunes or wherever you get music! Check out the transcript for this episode. Check out Lottie's Tea Cake recipe Books:  The New Lottie Moon Story by Catherine B. Allen Send the Light: Lottie Moon's Letters and Other Writings by Keith Harper Articles:  Who Was Lottie Moon? What Lottie Moon Taught Me About Injustice and the Gospel Lottie Moon: The Rebel I Want to Be Why the Lottie Moon Offering is Collected at Christmas