We Make Christians

It's underway! This past Sunday, Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle started a five-week Adult Christian Education class on the CREC and our upcoming denominational decision. They focused on the CREC's Memorials. Subsequent classes will cover rhetoric, polemics, cultural engagement, theology and polity, and an honest conversation about what, if anything, will change if we enter the CREC. In this episode, our three pastors discuss the CREC "scaries," which will be the topic of our next ACE class. What, really, are we afraid of when it comes to the CREC? Is it the way Doug Willson talks online? Allowing toddlers to take communion? Defining gender roles? Being compelled to know what you believe and why? We have nothing to be afraid of; fear nothing but the Lord. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

This past Sunday, Pastor Kyle finished an Adult Christian Education class on public theology and the need for Christians to honor and serve the Lord in every area of life— including how we associate and affiliate with others. This upcoming Sunday, Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle will be starting a five-week Adult Christian Education class on the CREC and our upcoming denominational decision. How should we think Christianly about this? In this episode, our three pastors discuss the upcoming ACE class and sketch its schedule. They forecast their discussion of the CREC Memorials, liturgy and covenant renewal services, and how things might change for us as a congregation. If at all. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this seventh and last installment, Elder Chad Winkler reads his article entitled, “Trips to Moscow, ID.” In this article, Elder Winkler gives readers a worm's eye view of life at Christ Church, Moscow—a hub, of sorts, of all things CREC. Here's what you can expect: loads of cheerfulness, joy, reverence and also a little bit of Handel. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this sixth installment, Pastor Kyle reads his article entitled, “Reformed and Always Renovating.” In this article, Pastor Kyle discusses the "complete and comprehensive Lordship of Jesus Christ" and how the CREC is a communion of churches that takes this very, very seriously. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this fifth installment, Elder Tom O'Boyle reads his article entitled, “Let's Not Cancel the CREC a Second Time.” In this article, Elder O'Boyle recalls the Evangelical Presbyterian Church's demand that our church cease all communication and association with Dr. Peter Leithart, a CREC pastor and theologian. Yea, let's never go through that again.  Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this fourth installment, Pastor Pete reads his article entitled, “Putting the Bible First.” In this article, Pastor Pete discusses an important clause in the CREC's Constitution: "In all matters of doctrinal discussion and debate, an appeal to Scripture will always be the first resort." Here is a communion of churches that takes the Bible very seriously. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this third installment, Pastor Pete reads his article entitled, “Structurally Sound.” In this article, Pastor Pete discusses our need to join a denomination and his reasons for why he believes we should join the CREC. Because the Bible comes first. Because the local church has authority. Because we have personal responsibility. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their discussion of the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article reads their article and then it is discussed.  In this second installment, Pastor Nate reads his article entitled, “On Principle.” In this article, Pastor Nate discusses the work of Thomas Witherow, a nineteenth century Irish Presbyterian minister, who wrote about being principled when it comes to joining a denomination. Whatever we do, we have to be principled. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Over the next few episodes of We Make Christians, Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle will be discussing the articles written in the most recent Scattered Seeds Newsletter, which is entitled, “Why the CREC Is a Good Choice: Essays on Choosing Our Next Denomination." In each episode, the author of an article will read their article and then it will be discussed.  In this first installment, Pastor Nate reads his article entitled, “The Only Thing Harder . . .” In this article he addresses the difficulty some might have in returning to a denomination after what our church has been through. He gives a lay of the land—noting where we’ve been, where we are, and where we’re going. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Constitutions are like boundary markers: They say, “This is who we are (and who we aren’t).” They say, “Here’s how you inhabit this space.” They say, “No trespassing (this or that).” They say, “This is what we expect of each other and what our God expects of us.” They notify, clarify, and solidify. And like boundary markers, sometimes constitutions need to be reread and even updated. Like King Josiah hearing the Law read and realizing that Judah had not followed what the Lord prescribed (2 Kings 22:8-23:25), churches need to reread their constitutions and update their handbooks, as needed. In this episode, Pastor Nate, Pastor Pete, and Pastor Kyle pull back the curtain to show how the handbooks are made. As part of the Constitution and Handbook Committee, along with elders Bob Barron and Tom O’Boyle, they dive into how handbooks help us make Christians. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

A Christian can never experience too much conviviality. Yes, there needs to be balance when it comes to our expressing our emotions, but conviviality is different. It’s not a mere sentiment, it’s a state of being. A virtuous state of being. You can fall into a ditch of somberness or seriousness, for example, but conviviality doesn’t really have a ditch. Because conviviality means living life together as we worship the Way, the Truth, and the Life. In this third and final installment of episodes on conviviality, Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle discuss the “highs and lows” of covenant renewal worship, whether a ranch is a house flipped on its side (or a dressing), and what makes Peter a Labrador and Kyle a crow. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! Welcome to more conviviality! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

In this second installment of a three-parter on conviviality, Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle apply their reflections on conviviality to the Lord’s Supper and the serving and partaking of the elements. How should we come to the Lord’s Table? Shamefaced, guilt-stricken, dour? Looking like we’re dragging ourselves to the gallows? Or with abundant joy and eager to be nourished? Like we are ready for refreshment and renewal? How we carry ourselves to receive the bread and the wine is a sure indicator of the presence or absence of conviviality. And it tells us a lot about how we perceive Our Lord and what He is offering us at the Table. He is not only our Savior who spilled blood for us. He is also the Creator of grain and grapes, and the King who likes to throw banquets. So be of good cheer! Come with thanksgiving in your heart! Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! P.S. We hope you enjoy the intro and outro of the podcast, which comes from our very own Elder, Chad Winkler! The piece is an arrangement of Gustav Holst’s The Planets, the Jupiter movement. It’s guaranteed to be a shot of joy in the arm! Here's a link to his arrangement: https://m.soundcloud.com/chad-winkler/jupiter-the-bringer-of-jollity. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Are you happy? Are you blessed? Are you full of joy? Does it show on your face? How about feasting and festivity? Are you fond of them? Or do you find yourself gravitating toward what’s grave? Sulking, constantly dour? A necessary feature of the Pittsburgh Posture here at Beverly Heights is conviviality. To live life together, and to experience and enjoy life together. When singing. When eating. When praying. Even when confessing. In this first of a three-parter, Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle discuss the importance of conviviality in the Christian’s life, too much seriousness and somberness in the modern church, and the virtue of celebration. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Jesus makes it clear that it is the mission of the church to make Christians. After the resurrection and before his ascension, He gives the Church the Great Commission, which we read about in Matthew 28:18-20: "Go and make disciples." A disciple of Jesus Christ is one who learns to observe all of Jesus’ teachings and participates in the practices He instituted—like observing the Sabbath and participating in the sacraments. Confirmation classes here at Beverly Heights do just that. Students learn what it means to be a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and how to be member of His Church. This is done through Scripture memorization, learning the essential doctrines of the Christian faith, and discussions about the confession and catechism of our Reformed tradition. Join Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle as they discuss this part of the ongoing mission of the Church and the work of sanctification in the lives of our youngest covenant members. Please pray for Pastor Nate, our confirmands, and their sponsors as confirmation class starts this Sunday! Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

“Did you see the game last night? Did you watch until the end and see him make that game-winning shot? I could not believe it! The kids were absolutely hysterical, and my neighbor was jumping up and down so erratically he almost fell out the window. Man, that was wild.” When you watch something that others have watched, you have something to talk about. When you eat something others have eaten, you have something to talk about. When you read something others have read, you have something to talk about. In this episode, Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle discuss the Robert Murray M'Cheyne Bible reading plan and why it’s important for a congregation to read the same books, chapters, and verses of the Bible. Being on the same page and having the same diet brings God’s people together. Moreover, they discuss what you should do if you “drop the ball.” That is, what’s the best practice for catching up when you get days, weeks, and months behind on your reading plan? Should you skip to the current day? Cram it all in on a Saturday? Just give up? Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Education means to "lead out" (educere). When you educate someone, you take them out of darkness into the light. Out of deception and into true perception. Out of a vicious way of thinking or acting into the freedom of the abundant life. In this episode, Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle discuss the various classes being taught at Beverly Heights this season. Everything from Pastor Nate's "Pittsburgh Posture" class to Pastor Pete's class on Romans. It gets really interesting when they start talking about eating greasy cheeseburgers to the glory of God and brushing your teeth like a Christian. There is a culture to 1207, and we are all about making Christians. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Is God still communicating with His people? What does it mean to hear from the Spirit? Is there more going on around us than what meets the eye? What does the Bible mean by principalities and powers? Who is the Anti-Christ?  This past week we entered the season of Advent. ’Tis the season of waiting, of being patient, and of observing. It's a time of reflecting on the Word made flesh and His “coming-to” (advenio) His people. On that day, heaven broke through and brought the abundant life. In this episode, Pastor Nate delineates and discusses this year’s Advent sermon series. It will focus on the Spirit of Christmas, which will include two themes: the Incarnation of our Lord Jesus Christ and the principalities and powers that seek to contest His kingdom. Join Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle as they reflect on the season of Advent and Christmas and the life the Lord is producing in our midst. A life of anticipation, preparation, and blessing. A life in step with the Spirit of Life. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Do you have teeth? Are you thankful for them? How about the toothbrushes and the paste you use to make them all pearly? What about hair? Are you thankful for it, and for your husband’s scraggly beard? We’re back in time and talking about Thanksgiving! What does it mean to be thankful? What does it look like to express gratitude? We love our pilgrims, turkeys, and yellow leaves—but are we thankful for them? Everything is a gift, and Christians must have a heart that can turn its gaze toward the many donations of our divine Lord and appreciate them. And Christian parents must cultivate this heart in their children. But how do you turn Complainers into Celebrators? How do you get yourself or others to move from Grieving to Gratitude? Get a sneak peek into how Pastors Nate, Peter, and Kyle do this. Join Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle as they reflect on the holiday of Thanksgiving in contradistinction to Halloween, Christmas, and Black Friday, and how the Church must defend Thanksgiving and resist consumerism!Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

This past Lord’s Day, Pastor Peter led us in the Unison Prayer of Confession, Silent Confession of Sin, Assurance of Pardon, and the Unison Confession of Faith. He had never done that before. This past Monday, after introducing Nehemiah and his role as Protector of the King, Pastor Kyle gave the Benediction to the Preschool and Academy students in Morning Matins. He had never done that before. On November 9th, 2025, Pastor Nate and fellow Presbyters from the surrounding region laid their hands on Peter and Kyle to ordain them to the office of Pastor. It was a monumental and memorable event. The orchestral music was phenomenal. The food and cider marvelous. The atmosphere unabashedly jovial. It was like the whole Church of Jesus Christ was packed into one sanctuary and then they feasted. Join Pastor Nate, Pastor Peter, and Pastor Kyle as they reflect on the ordination service and Pastor Nate discusses what it means to be a shepherd. Namely, one who acts out of unction and has the heart of God. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

What if we don’t find what we’re looking for? What if the PCA or the OPC or the CREC isn’t right for BHPC? What do we do as a church if we don’t find a denomination to come alongside? How would we  then function as a congregation? Well, independency is an option. After all, our church has been through a lot. Maybe we should just take a deep breath and take our time? We don’t have to rush into anything. We could enjoy our freedom for a little bit. That’s an option. But is it a good option? In this episode, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle discuss denominational independency. They look at Scripture, the prescriptions of the Westminster Standards, and the meaning of “Presbyterian.” To call our church “Presbyterian” means that we are a part of a Presbytery and our pastors and elders are accountable to other elders. It also means that our church would collaborate with other churches. Join Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle as they discuss the fourth option, independency, the timing of it all, and what it would be like for our congregation if we didn’t affiliate with a Presbyterian denomination. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

In this episode, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their mini-series on denomination affiliation by examining the CREC—the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches. It’s a small and controversial denomination. You’ve probably heard people squabbling about the “Federal Vision” and expressing worry about that intrepid grandpa who comes out every November with a cigar in his mouth and flamethrower in his hands. Why would we ever consider such an affiliation? Putting the CREC through the denominational sifter, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle answer that question by reflecting on the CREC's theology, culture, and polity. An emphasis on the Bible, and going to it first and frequently? Pushing authority to the local level? Walking into public spaces and reclaiming them because they belong to the Lord? Hmm—what’s not to like? Join Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle as they discuss the CREC and the joy of being a Christian, the delight in having no standing committees, and what it means to have accountability without bureaucracy. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

You can tell a lot about a denomination by its name. Take, for example, the Orthodox Presbyterian Church (OPC). Their name tells you that they are Presbyterian and they care about Orthodoxy. Sounds pretty good, huh? But you can also tell a lot about a denomination by how many times a year it defrocks a pastor. Or how many charges of heresy are being adjudicated in a given month. Oof. No thanks!A denomination’s values, temperament, and culture are baked into its bureaucracy. And its principles, enemies, and worries are expressed through its preaching.   In this episode, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle continue their mini-series on denomination affiliation by reflecting on the OPC—the denomination started by J. Gresham Machen. They discuss why we should or shouldn’t align with the OPC, who we are as a congregation, and why presbyters and presbyteries should have a sense of humor. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

What’s the purpose of being a part of a denomination? Why not just soak up the freedom found in independency? Do what we want. Well, because that wouldn’t be very Presbyterian of us. To be Presbyterian, we have a plethora of options. But which denomination is "best" for us? Which would be most fruitful, edifying, supportive, and conducive to fellowship and collaboration in gospel ministry? In this episode, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle begin a mini-series on denomination affiliation. They start with a high-level overview of affiliations of the past and then they begin to look at the prospects. They start with the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA)—the second largest Presbyterian denomination in the country. The PCA is to the “right” of the EPC, but not everything to the right is right for us. For example, the PCA isn’t really all that conservative and traditional. It still struggles with the ghosts of Egalitarianism, Racism, and Bureaucracy. A lot has changed since Tim Keller was around. Then again, maybe not. Join Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle as they discuss the theological differences, political procedures, and cultural postures of the PCA that don’t quite align with our mission and ministry here at Beverly Heights. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Do you know how many ordination services there have been at Beverly Heights? In ninety six years, it hasn’t been more than a handful. Of course, Pastor Nate was one. But now, after passing their ordination exams, Peter and Kyle are set to be ordained on Sunday, November 9th! Ordination is the laying on of hands on a man to separate him for a specific office, a particular gospel ministry—namely, the preaching of the Word and the administration of the sacraments. It is done by fellow presbyters who have been called to the same office. Preaching the Word and administering the sacraments are not just two additional tasks that can be taken on by an elder. They are ordinances that are particular to the office of pastor. An office to which one must be called in a three-fold manner. First, one senses a calling from God to this office. Then there is an external call in which the local church affirms this call and accepts one as a candidate for ordination. This candidacy is then affirmed by other pastors or presbyters. The whole process is one of coming in and under. Under God. Under the tradition. Under fellow presbyters. And even under how one should dress. The police officer has a uniform, and so does the pastor. In this second episode of Season 2, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle further discuss the call to ordination, the three-office view of our church, the significance of the Geneva robe, and the upcoming ordination service. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

After a brief hiatus, the boys are back in town! It’s been a while since we released an episode, but make no mistake, we never stopped making Christians. Some exciting happenings occurred over the past few months. One of which was Peter and Kyle’s ordination exams, which they completed a few weeks ago. Peter and Kyle discuss the process in detail—starting with a written exam with over a hundred questions and two exegetical papers (one in Hebrew and one in Greek). They then had to respond to five pastoral case studies and complete two two-hour oral exams at night over Zoom. And that’s not all. The icing on the cake was an “on the floor” exam in Boston with pastors from the Bucer Presbytery of the CREC. The icing on top of the icing was they passed! In this first episode of “Season 2,” Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle discuss the office, the process of becoming a learned clergy, and if Moses was left-handed. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

To be a woman is to excel at failing. In fact, in order to excel as a woman, you must fail. But in the old-fashioned kinda way. Failure is an underrated skill, and every woman needs to have it. The Staff women are almost out of coffee but they are back to drop a few more crumbs of brilliance—like “bless the people closest to you” and “serve under authority.” They bring all the tips: read your Bible; pray every day; point out disobedience; keep your friends accountable; don’t be conflict averse; bless others, don't burden them. These crumbs are thick and rare—so chew on them like they’re going out of style. And then look to your own sphere. What crumbs can you drop? How can you nourish others? But as you look at what’s right in front of you, don’t get your curls in a twist. Run the race, but don’t forget that you have to rely on God’s grace. Fail and rely. And then repeat said relying. In this final installment, Elissa, Amy, and Jen drive across three townships to take women’s ministry home. Dig in and don't throw anything they say away. It's well worth the time, and you get to listen to it. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

And theyrrreeee back! This time not to set the record straight, but to revisit all those pesky prepositions. Is women's ministry a ministry to women for women by women or about women? What prepositions are we missing? Beside women? Among? They also discuss how women can be recharged and rejuvenated, not by self-care, but obedience and service. When women bless-forward and bless-down, life is brought forth. When women bless-forward and bless-down, you've got yourself a women's ministry.Think about the kind of grandmother you want to be to your grandchildren, and then take the requisite steps to get there. Put down your hobbies and pick up skills that you can use to benefit your family or loved ones. And teach them to your kids so that they can teach them to their kids. Listen to Elissa, Amy, and Jen once again take the prepositions by the horn and tackle the topic of women’s ministry and the beauty of it all. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

They’re here to set the record straight. Staff women—talking about women’s ministry. What is it? Why do it? And what does C.S. Lewis have to do with it? They first tackle the preposition. Is women’s ministry for women? Or is it to women? Must it be done by women? Is it just women being around other women? They pepper us with all of the acronyms to describe it: FUBU. FUTO. BUFO. Take your pick. In the end, though, it’s about women leading by serving. They also discuss how having a project or common goal can take you outside of yourself and squash the temptation to gossip and complain. And how do you know that you’re doing women’s ministry right? When teenage girls look up to elderly women in the congregation because of their virtues. Listen to Elissa Winkler, Amy Lucas, and Jen Tan take the WMC’s mic and then drop it on women’s ministry, service and leadership, and what it means to be a helpmate. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

“Glory to God in the Highest!” In this last episode for the summer, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle do a lot of singing. Mostly Peter. Agnus beef patties and Michael W. Smith get a shout-out. Then two minutes of boisterous merriment ensues. But it’s all about why we sing the Franklins and fugal Psalms year-round. And how singing such theologically rich and beautiful songs over and over again is good for the Body and the soul. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! See you in September! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Jesus said He is the Bread of Life. So why do some prefer Wonder Bread? His Blood was shed for us, so then why are we sippin’ on Welch’s? Is there a war on Jesus through our eating and drinking preferences? How are these liturgical alternatives forming our congregation? What if we could change the bread recipe to a greater quality of bread to avoid or abolish food intolerances? What if we all drank the same element? In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about bread, wine, the Lord’s Supper and symbols and signs of the Kingdom. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

How easily we start to trust our wallets more than the Word. Bitcoin more than the Bread of Life. The stock market more than the Suffering Servant. What is money for, and what should we do with our money? That’s just the thing: It's not ours. Our money is not our own; it comes from the Lord, and it belongs to Him. And He commands us to give back. But how shall we then give back? How much should we give back? With the fiscal year ending in June and our current sermon series on stewardship, we are reminded that tithing is not preferential or negotiable. It's mandated. In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about gifts, tithes, and offerings and how giving back is essential to being a Christian.  Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Singing, beatboxing, and rapping? The story of Jonah, Water Day, and sweaty armpits? FOMO, “Na na na na na na,” and sniffing out heresy? Must be VBS week! In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about VBS week and why it’s one of the highlights of the summer. We also give reasons why everyone in our congregation should attend the culminating VBS event this Sunday evening, June 22, at 4:30 p.m., “Summer at the Heights,” even if you don’t have kids or kids who participated in VBS. Reasons like: Because there will be food there. And we are a covenantal family who support one another as we minister to our neighborhood. And because your smiling face is needed. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

There is the Wise Person, the Foolish Person, and the Simpleton. Which one's your favorite? Which one are you most like? What does wisdom look like in negative world? What does it mean to have wisdom in this day and age? More like Chat GPT on your phone than an elderly man with a gray beard and a cane? In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about Peter’s current Adult Christian Education class on the book of Proverbs and the timely themes applicable today. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Christians are the kind of people who see judgment as a good thing. It sounds deranged or masochistic, but it’s not. Because Christians come to see how judgment brings cleansing, purification, and restoration with their covenantal God.  Related, Reformed Christians are the kind of people who see Christ all throughout the story of the ancient Israelites. There was and is gospel and grace in the mission, exile, and judgment of God’s people. They were fed. They were led. They were warned. They were corrected. In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about our sermon series in Isaiah—how it’s gospel and how to discuss it with your family. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians! https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Have you ever wondered how many churches are in The Presbyterian Church of the USA? Or how many conjunctions are in the EPC constitution? Or what “CREC” means? Us, neither. But have you wondered what denominations are worth considering for our congregation—pending Session approval and a congregational vote? Us, too.  Everything you needed to know about Presbyterian denominations can be found in this episode, as Peter gives a snapshot of the landscape and a brief history of each.Then Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle discuss ordination and next steps. Welcome to another episode of We Make Christians!https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

This week Peter Chace is officially graduating from seminary! Whoop whoop! Make sure you give him a high five, handshake, or a hug when you see him. Peter and Kyle were on the ordination track, but we’re out of the denomination. Soooo, now what?How are they supposed to get ordained? Did Peter do all that hard work for nothing? In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about graduation and ordination. What’s the difference between a Master of Divinity and a Master of Theology? Are Peter and Kyle going to Boston in September? Why?Tune in and find out. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

It means that I can walk away whenever I want. No harm, no foul. I don’t need to explain—it's my decision.  I don’t even need to have good reasons; it's just what I want to do. And, even if I did have good reasons, I certainly don’t need to give them to you!This is the epitome of contractual thinking about relationships. They are for me, and I reserve the right to abandon ship when they aren't meeting my needs. Sadly, this line of thinking has slithered its way even into the Christian's head and heart—with our marriages, friendships, and even our membership in the church.  In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about the biblical way of thinking about relationships: one of covenant, not contract. Specifically, they talk about the new five-week Adult Christian Education class that Pastor Nate is co-teaching with Nadine Michalak: The Covenant Family.  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Have you ever wondered why Christians celebrate Easter for so long? And Christmas? We got these periods called "Eastertide" and "Christmastide?" Why? Why doesn't every liturgical event have a "tide?" Because events like Christmas and Easter are so majestic and magnificent that we can’t adequately contemplate or celebrate them on just one day.  God took on flesh. Born of a virgin. And then He died. And then He trampled death. There is way too much awe and mystery to get our heads around that in just one day. We need at least a couple weeks. In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle discuss the nature of Eastertide and why we should be celebrating Resurrection every day. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Jesus said you can't serve God and Mammon (Matthew 6:24)—you have to pick one. That means that the Christian must make their money serve God. Saints of old have blessed our congregation with riches. But some of those riches have become idols. They perpetuate names other than "Jesus." In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle talk about the cost(s) of leaving the PCUSA and the EPC and using trusts to pay legal fees. God's people have to be fiscally prudent and steward their dollars well, but when green paper starts to demand our trust, we must be ready to burn it, so to speak. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

The Church never stops making Christians, and the Christian never graduates from following Christ. 2, 22, or 92—we all need to keep growing and getting chiseled.  But, in this day and age, we need a particular kind of education. One that prepares and equips believers to live out their faith and Christian practices in “negative world.” This applies to our Preschool, Academy, Sunday School, and Adult Christian Ed (ACE). In each stage of development and discipleship, we need educating and equipping. In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle discuss ACE and our new three-fold approach: catechetical instruction, liturgical formation, and practical discussion. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

The episode you’ve all been waiting for: everything you wanted to know about church constitutions! All the preambles and policies to eat your heart out. What is a church constitution? Is it necessary for a church? Or is it just helpful? But, also, if it’s 252 pages, might it create more problems than solutions? After leaving the EPC, we are now an independent church. But freedom isn’t free. We need to update our governing documents—like our constitution and bylaws. In this episode of We Make Christians, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Kyle discuss the nature and purpose of a church constitution and why we need one. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

“Is that all they do—make coffee, collect communion cups, wash dishes, and serve food? So anyone willing to give a helping hand can be a deacon?” What is a deacon? What does it mean to say that it is an “office?” Is the diaconate a mark of the Church? Do you have to have deacons in order to be a church?Peter, Pastor Nate, and I (alongside Elissa Winkler, Cindy England, and Joe Williams) were commissioned by Session, as the Deacon Task Force, to study the diaconate. We discovered that deacons have four key responsibilities: distribute financial assistance, maintain building and grounds, perform acts of service and mercy, and provide liturgical support. We also discovered that the diaconate is a high office reserved specifically for male leaders who serve under the direct oversight of the Presbyters, the Session. Join me, Peter, and Pastor Nate as we discuss the Deacon Task Force’s report, laugh and wax sarcastically, and say “Brakel” at least four times.https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Do you like to sing during Lent? Do you like to play games after confessing your sins? Do you like to fellowship in times of fasting? So do we! This episode introduces and discusses a new Lenten season event we are hosting as a congregation: Hosanna in the Heights. Sunday, April 6, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. This event replaces an old Lenten event, Resurrection Egg Hunt, and is part of a new four-point strategy of reaching our community with the gospel of Jesus Christ. The other points being Harvest at the Heights, Glory in the Heights, and a Block Party event after Vacation Bible School (Coming June 2020). Baby chicks. Lambs. Food. Singing. Youth video. Christians. Games. And an egg hunt. Without the bengals and rattlesnakes, of course.  Join me, Peter, and Pastor Nate as we discuss this new event, how much fun it’s going to be, and the new four-point strategy for reaching our community. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Got thumos? Well, then, Rise Up, O Men of God! Men—young and old alike—are hungry to bear the weight of responsibility. They desire the courage to mortify sin, resist the lures of Lucifer, and fight the enemy at the gate. Men want to be strong. Men want to build. But some need edification and others need encouragement. Some even need to hear that it's not only okay but good to be a man. In this episode, Kyle, Peter, and Pastor Nate talk about the College of Men ministry here at Beverly Heights. They recount its humble beginnings and how it has transformed into what it is today: hearty shanties, delicious elk pizza, and real talk about occupying the center. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Three dudes walk into an office to podcast about women’s ministry . . . What could go wrong? What is women’s ministry? In addition to Sunday morning worship and Linger Longers, do women need their own Bible studies and tea time? Could women’s ministry today be more informed by modern evangelical gobbledygook than the Bible? (Could the same be said about men’s ministry?)How does women’s ministry fit within the overall ministry of Beverly Heights Church?What could and should women’s ministry look like at Beverly Heights Church as we lean into God’s Good Future? Join me, Peter, and Pastor Nate as we discuss the importance of women’s ministry in the life our church, while pledging and promising to do a future episode with the “gals on Staff!” https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

In this episode, we host a self-proclaimed “reluctant guest”—our very own Elissa Winkler, Director of Music in Worship. Elissa chats with Pastor Nate, Peter, and I about the recent launch of The Master’s Music Academy here at Beverly Heights. She discusses the origin of the ministry, her passion for Christian education, and classes offered at the Academy.  Elissa also gives listeners a peek into her love for music, past teaching of children’s choir, and her calling as an educator.  She desires for everything to be done for the glory of God, including, and especially, music. Join me, Peter, Pastor Nate, and Elissa as we discuss the importance of being masterful at music for the Master who deserves it all. __________________________________________________________________________________________________“The Master’s Music Academy is a ministry of Beverly Heights Presbyterian Church. It offers high quality, distinctly Christian musical instruction of the South Hills. Our instructors provide private lessons and group class for all ages, fostering a love for music rooted in the good, true, and beautiful. Partnering with local Christian music teachers, we also host master classes, ensembles, and events year-round.”  https://beverlyheights.org/mma/https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

The landscape of the mission field has changed, and continues to change. Long gone are the days of being a Christian nation and sending evangelists and missionaries “over there” to “far off countries” to “save the lost.” Our neighbors are lost. We have pagans, heathens, and witches walking our streets. Our city, our state, our nation is a mission field. This extends to our college campuses. In this episode, Peter discusses his outreach ministry at Duquesne University in partnership with the Coalition of Christian Outreach.Join me, Peter, and Pastor Nate as we discuss how the local church, its liturgy, and life in covenantal community buttresses and blooms local missions and outreach.   https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

Most people nowadays view education like a “GetGo” gas station: “Get in. Get out. Get going.”They see education as going through the motions, getting a degree, and getting on with your life. Sadly, many Christian educators have adopted this view. Even some pastors have absorbed it: “Come to church, listen to the sermon, see you next week!”Here at Beverly Heights we see things very differently. Education isn’t a hoop to jump through; it’s not an item on a checklist. Education is eternal formation. It's formation for the future. And it's all about worship—a life fully lived in obedience, honor, and service to our Redeemer. He is the Designer of ABCs and 123s. The Lord of History. The Creator of Creatures. The Sustainer of Society. The content always culminates in Christ. In this episode of We Make Christians, Kyle, Peter, and Pastor Nate discuss Morning Matins—our daily time of worship for the Preschool and Academy students. https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”Since we are united in Christ as believers, we need to be in His Word as a church. In this nuts and bolts, brass tacks episode, Pastor Nate, Peter, and Kyle discuss the importance of reading the Bible on a daily basis. Despite the hustle and bustle, we can’t forget to be still and know our God. We need to eat our daily bread and be nourished. We need to read and hear His Word. So whether you're following the Robert Murray M'Cheyne, the ESV, or the Peter Chace Bible Reading Plan, take the time to read your Bible. It’s necessary for the life of the Church. It’s necessary for the health of your family. It’s necessary for your own growth and faith. Join Kyle, Peter, and Pastor Nate as they discuss eating our daily bread.  https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/

In Part One, Peter provided a brief lay of the land on the historical and theological front of child communion. In Part Two, he discusses what this means for the church and how this might be applied to our families. In short, child communion is a discernment process with the child, his or her parents, and the church. Peter proposes that the child needs to display a few features before communing. The ability to chew. They can reach out and take the bread and wine. They show signs of obedience to God, their parents, and other superiors. They articulate some form of faith. Join Kyle, Peter, and Pastor Nate as they continue in their discussion of children taking communion.https://beverlyheights.org/ | https://theparrhesians.com/