Resurrection Stories
Sharing stories of hope, purpose, transformation and service
Resurrection Stories is a podcast about hope, purpose, transformation and service. Each week, Pastor Robert Johnson interviews a guest who is connected with Resurrection, A United Methodist Church. Our weekly guests open up to share their powerful stories of faith and how they are living that out on a daily basis. God is using people like us to close the gap between where the world is and where the world could be, and this podcast will leave you inspired, encouraged, and equipped to consider how you might join God to live out your own Resurrection Story.
Watch Episodes
In this episode of *Resurrection Stories*, Pastor Robert Johnson of Church of the Resurrection interviews Melanie Hill, Director of Operations and Community Life at Resurrection West, who shares her remarkable journey of faith, ministry, and joy. Melanie reflects on her early years growing up in a church environment, her personal struggles, and how her experiences shaped her calling to ministry. She highlights the significance of mentors in her life, emphasizing the importance of building supportive communities both in ministry and beyond.
Melanie describes her 26-year journey in ministry, starting from youth ministry to her current role, where she helps foster community and collaboration. Her deep sense of purpose and joy comes from knowing she is where God wants her to be, and from witnessing the tangible impact Resurrection Church makes in its community and beyond.
The conversation touches on themes of resilience, faithfulness, and the importance of nurturing future generations of church leaders. Melanie’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of purpose, joy, and community in Christian life. Tune in for an encouraging and heartfelt discussion that will resonate with anyone seeking meaning and service in their own spiritual journey.
In this compelling episode of Resurrection Stories, hosts Angie McCardy and Robert Johnson sit down with Luke Nolkemper, a recent high school graduate with a story as remarkable as his talents. From navigating the challenges of a rare congenital heart condition to finding purpose through community and faith, Luke shares how his experiences at Resurrection shaped his outlook on life and deepened his connection to God. Luke’s journey involves music, wildlife research, and a passion for nursing, all of which reflect his boundless curiosity and commitment to living fully in the moment. Join us as we explore how one young man’s challenges led him to embrace his faith, give back through service, and inspire others.
In this episode of *Resurrection Stories*, Pastor Robert Johnson sits down with BJ Huffman, the Director of Modern Worship at Resurrection Church. BJ shares his powerful testimony, detailing his path from a troubled youth to a place of deep faith and service within one of the largest United Methodist churches in the U.S.
BJ’s story begins with a turbulent childhood marked by family struggles and rebellion, but his life took a dramatic turn when he was invited to lead worship at just 16 years old. That invitation set him on a journey that transformed his relationship with God and led to a lifelong commitment to ministry. Now, as a worship leader at Resurrection, BJ blends his love for music and passion for recovery ministry, helping others experience healing and spiritual growth.
Throughout the conversation, BJ discusses the importance of worship in building community, the power of diversity in worship, and how music can profoundly impact individuals by drawing them closer to God. He also opens up about the role of creativity in ministry and his excitement for upcoming projects like the Resurrection Collective.
BJ’s journey from brokenness to worship leadership is an inspiring testament to the healing power of faith and community. This episode is a reminder that, no matter our past, God can use our gifts to bring hope and transformation to others.
In this episode of *Resurrection Stories*, Robert Johnson, the Leawood location pastor at Resurrection, sits down with Pastor Ali Drummond, a remarkable young leader with deep roots in the Resurrection community. Ali shares her personal journey of growing up in the church, her faith development, and the moments that led her to a courageous life in ministry. From childhood memories of running through the still-under-construction Foundry Sanctuary to her transformative time volunteering at a hospice house, Ali’s story is one of faith, care, and bold leadership.
As they embark on launching a new Resurrection location in Lee’s Summit, Ali reflects on the call to serve and lead with compassion and conviction. She discusses her experiences at Perkins School of Theology, how Resurrection stands out in the faith community, and the deep sense of mission she carries in her work. Her story serves as an inspiration for those seeking to find their place in faith, ministry, and community.
This episode is an intimate look at the life of a pastor who embraces challenges with grace and embodies the core values of Resurrection. Ali’s passion for connection, care, and courage shines through, offering listeners a chance to be inspired by her commitment to the work God has called her to.
In this inspiring episode of Resurrection Stories, Robert Johnson, location pastor at Resurrection Leawood, sits down with Matt Williams, a former professional baseball player and current Digital Engagement Team Director at Resurrection. Matt shares his life journey, from playing baseball at Duke University and being drafted by the Chicago Cubs, to his eventual calling into ministry. His story is one of transformation, rooted in hard work, perseverance, and a growing faith in God.
Matt opens up about the challenges of balancing the high demands of professional sports with his personal faith, reflecting on key moments that led him to shift his identity from “Matt the baseball player” to “Matt the Jesus follower.” He offers valuable insights for athletes, parents, and young fathers, discussing the importance of keeping sports and life in perspective, building strong family connections, and nurturing one’s faith in everyday life.
Through candid reflections and heartfelt advice, Matt encourages listeners to remain faithful, present, and purposeful in their walk with Christ. Whether you’re a parent, an aspiring athlete, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you empowered to embrace your faith journey and use your gifts for a higher purpose.
In this episode of Resurrection Stories, we meet Mikaela Tenny, the Student Discipleship Program Director at Resurrection. Mikaela shares her passion for working with students and the unique challenges and rewards of ministering to this age group.
Highlights:
A Lifelong Calling
Mikaela’s dedication to youth ministry began at a young age, inspired by her family’s deep involvement in the church. She recounts pivotal moments in her faith journey, including a turning point after her mother’s passing that solidified her commitment to Christ.
Understanding Today’s Students
Mikaela discusses the challenges faced by today’s youth, including the pressure to succeed, mental health struggles, and the difficulty of navigating conflicting messages about truth and identity.
Ministering with Intentionality
She emphasizes the importance of meeting students where they are, providing them with age-appropriate resources and opportunities to explore their faith.
Creating a Welcoming Community
Mikaela highlights the significance of creating a safe and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and loved, regardless of their background or identity.
Empowering Students through Service
She shares how Resurrection’s Student Ministry facilitates mission trips and service opportunities, helping students step outside their comfort zones and make a tangible difference in the world.
Mikaela’s unwavering passion for nurturing the next generation of Christians is evident throughout the podcast. Her insights and dedication offer a compelling glimpse into the heart of student ministry at Resurrection.
In this powerful episode of Resurrection Stories, Ed Slaughter, a Worship Experience Team Specialist at Resurrection, shares his incredible life journey. Ed’s story is one of tragedy, trauma, and ultimately, triumphant hope and forgiveness.
Highlights:
A Childhood Marred by Violence
Ed recounts his early experiences witnessing violence, including his father being shot when Ed was just a young child. These experiences shaped his understanding of the world and his faith.
Wrongful Imprisonment
At the age of 16, Ed was wrongfully convicted of a crime and spent the next 33 years in prison. He grappled with anger, despair, and a loss of faith.
Finding Redemption Through Forgiveness
Ed shares how forgiveness became a turning point in his life. He realized that forgiving those who had wronged him, including himself, was essential for his own healing and spiritual growth.
Divine Intervention and Release
After years of legal battles and a landmark Supreme Court ruling, Ed was finally exonerated and released from prison. He attributes his freedom to divine intervention and his unwavering faith.
A New Chapter at Resurrection
Ed found a welcoming community at Resurrection and now serves as a Worship Experience Team Specialist, ensuring that others feel the same warmth and acceptance he experienced.
A Message of Hope
Ed’s story is a testament to the power of hope, faith, and forgiveness. He encourages listeners to never give up hope, no matter how dire their circumstances may seem.
Ed Slaughter’s journey is a remarkable example of resilience, transformation, and the unwavering power of the human spirit. His story reminds us that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for redemption and a brighter future.
A Career Transition
Marna started her career in nursing in South Africa, then transitioned to clinical research. She and her husband moved to Kansas City for a job opportunity and became members of Church of the Resurrection. After 17 years in clinical research, Marna felt a calling to work with Matthew’s Ministry, the church’s special needs ministry. She began volunteering, eventually becoming the director.
Matthew’s Ministry: A Beacon of Inclusivity
Matthew’s Ministry serves individuals with special needs and their families. It offers a variety of programs, including the Sunflower Adult Learning Program, which features a bakery that makes delicious treats. The ministry is committed to making everyone feel welcome and providing a place where they belong.
Growing Up in South Africa
Marna grew up in the Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa. She experienced apartheid firsthand and was able to vote in the first democratic election in 1994. Her faith was shaped by her upbringing in the church and her family’s values.
A Welcoming Community
Marna and her family were drawn to Church of the Resurrection because of its welcoming community and Pastor Adam’s messages. They found a home away from home and connected with other South African families in the area.
Embracing Diversity
Marna emphasizes the importance of patience, love, and care when working with individuals with special needs. She encourages people to volunteer with Matthew’s Ministry and experience the blessings that come from serving others.
Marna’s Message:
- “Life will be better if you just eat the cookies from the Sunflower Bakery!”
- “Don’t let your first time volunteering be your last. It may be uncomfortable at first, but it can become a wonderful blessing.”
- “There is no requirement for experience or education to volunteer. All you need is patience and a loving, caring personality.”
Jon Edlin’s Journey of Faith and Trauma
Jon Edlin, Marketing and Engagement Lead Director at Church of the Resurrection, shares his harrowing experience of surviving a devastating tornado in Nashville in 2020. The traumatic event led to a profound crisis of faith, as Jon questioned God’s role in the tragedy and struggled with feelings of anger and doubt.
Doubt as a Part of Faith
Jon emphasizes the importance of recognizing that doubt is a natural part of faith, and it’s okay to question God during difficult times. He found solace in Adam Hamilton’s book, *Why? Making Sense of God’s Will*, which helped him reconcile his doubts with his belief in a bigger and more mysterious God.
Trauma-Informed Care and Healing
Jon advocates for trauma-informed care within the church, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the unique needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. He credits EMDR therapy, a treatment for PTSD, with playing a crucial role in his healing process.
Embracing a Bigger Faith
Jon’s message is one of hope and resilience. He encourages those who have experienced trauma to be open to different forms of healing, even those that may seem unconventional. He also emphasizes the importance of taking small steps in one’s faith journey, allowing for questioning and disagreement along the way.
Jon’s Work at Church of the Resurrection
Jon’s work in Marketing and Engagement at Resurrection is driven by his desire to share his story and offer hope to others who may be struggling with their faith. He believes that by sharing his experience, he can help others see that doubt is not a sign of weakness but rather an opportunity to grow in their faith.
The episode features Todd Davidson, who plays a vital role in student ministry at the Church of the Resurrection’s Leawood location. Todd shares his journey and experiences in youth ministry, highlighting the importance of recognizing students as the present force within the church community.
Todd’s Journey in Student Ministry
Todd discusses his extensive background in student ministry, which spans over 27 years. He reflects on his personal growth from feeling undervalued as a youth to finding his calling in nurturing young individuals. His story underscores the transformative power of youth ministry, both for the students and for himself.
Impactful Moments and Future Aspirations
Todd recalls significant moments in his career, such as mentoring a young man who eventually became a United Methodist pastor. These anecdotes illustrate the long-term impact of his work in student ministry. Todd expresses a passionate commitment to continuing his support for the youth, emphasizing their immediate significance to the church and community.
Concluding Thoughts
The episode wraps up with Todd advocating for the empowerment of young people in the church, stressing the need to let them lead and influence the community now, rather than viewing them merely as the future.
Finding Jesus is in the Mundane of Everyday Life
This week’s episode features Jay Peach, a member of the Worship Experience team at Resurrection. Jay has a passionate approach to life, deeply rooted in grace, which influences his family life and his role within the church.
Jay’s Role and Reflections on Faith
Jay discusses his role on the worship experiences team managing communion and coordinating greeters and ushers. Reflecting on his faith journey, Jay shares that he was raised by Baptist missionary parents and has been a Christian from a young age, with his faith deeply integrated into his identity.
Personal Stories and Insights
Jay recounts personal experiences, including his time spent in Gaza during his childhood, which gives him a unique perspective on the current conflicts in the area. He emphasizes the humanity of the people living in conflict zones, sharing poignant memories that connect him personally to these places.
Discussion on Ministry and Social Issues
Jay touches on his seminary years, which were formative in shaping his views on social issues and ministry. He advocates for inclusivity and the significant impact that those in social ministries can have, regardless of their backgrounds.
**Family Life and Personal Challenges**
Jay opens up about his family life, mentioning his wife Susan’s battle with cancer and their large, blended family. He shares the joys and challenges of managing a busy household and his approach to life that is filled with grace and acceptance.
Concluding Thoughts on Faith and Grace
The episode concludes with Jay sharing his core message of finding Jesus in the mundane aspects of life, illustrating how everyday moments are imbued with spiritual significance. This reflects his deep-seated belief in grace and inclusivity in all aspects of life, resonating with the podcast’s themes of hope and transformation.
Welcome to another episode of Resurrection Stories” a podcast that brings you stories of hope, purpose, transformation, and service from the heart of the Church of the Resurrection. Hosted by Robert Johnson, the Leawood location pastor, and Angie McCarty, a dedicated pastor at the church, each episode is a journey into the lives of individuals who are living out their faith in extraordinary ways.
In This Episode:
A Pastor’s Journey of Grace: Hear the moving story of Dennis Apple, a pastor at the Church of the Resurrection, who shares his journey through the devastating loss of his son and how it profoundly shaped his faith and ministry.
Faith Through Adversity: Discover how Dennis navigated the darkest moments of his life, grappling with doubt and grief, yet ultimately finding a deeper understanding of God’s grace and presence.
Inspiration for Your Faith Journey: Be inspired by Dennis’s resilience and the way he has used his experiences to support others in their times of grief, embodying the church’s mission of transformation and service.
A Message of Hope: This episode is a testament to the power of faith to carry us through life’s toughest challenges and a reminder that we are never alone in our struggles.
Isaac Cates, member of the Recording Academy, artist, composer and Director of Music Outreach at Resurrection, shares his inspiring story of faith, music, and how God’s love transformed his life.
A Life Dedicated to Music
Isaac grew up in Kansas City surrounded by music. His family encouraged his talents in both music and other passions. With both formal music education and a gift for improvisation, his career evolved through composing, film scoring, and even dissertation research subjects. Despite his global reach, Isaac shares how he maintains humility, always prioritizing service to God over worldly success.
The Power of God’s Love
Isaac describes a turning point in his faith at age 13, when he felt a deep, personal connection to God’s boundless love for him. This revelation launched a lifelong journey with God, and this same love remains the focus of his music ministry today.
Isaac’s Work at Resurrection
At Resurrection, Isaac leads worship and directs projects like the Affirmations Concert, bringing together amazing talents from across Kansas City. He finds great joy in serving his community and sharing the gospel message through music.
The Legacy of Love
Isaac’s personal testimony of faith is a reminder of the transformative power of God’s love. Despite challenges like losing both parents, he finds comfort knowing they are with God. This love remains evident through Isaac’s musical ministry and his dedication to serving his community.
Emily Stirewalt is a pastor at Resurrection who leads Silver Link, a unique ministry dedicated to caring for older adults. Her journey to this position has been one of faith, transformation, and discovering the true meaning of family.
Caring for Those Others Might Forget
Emily leads the Silver Link Ministry, reaching out to older adults who are homebound or living in care facilities. They provide worship services and loving companionship to this sometimes overlooked population.
Called to This Work
Emily has always felt a connection to older adults. Growing up in a close-knit church community shaped her faith and planted a seed of compassion within her. A woman serving as a campus minister later inspired her to answer her own calling within the church.
Overcoming Challenges, Finding Her Path
Emily faced setbacks in her early career, but God’s love and guidance led her back into ministry. It was through chaplaincy work that she confirmed her desire to adopt and foster children, feeling a profound connection to those who may feel orphaned or alone.
Building a Beautiful Family
Emily and her husband Randall both wanted to foster and adopt. Their beautiful family has grown through amazing circumstances. They adopted their oldest daughter, and then welcomed a biological child only eight days later! Emily shares their incredible journey as testament to how God makes a way.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to work at a large, vibrant church like Church of the Resurrection? Today, we introduce you to Becca Anderson, an experienced pastor who now uses her ministry gifts in the IT department. Learn how technology can amplify God’s work!
Becca’s Journey: From Pastor to IT Professional
Becca shares her remarkable faith journey: growing up in a ministry family, the life-changing influence of her grandmother, and eventually discovering her passion for tech and finding new ways to support God’s mission.
Doing Ministry at Work
As Becca helps guide staff members through tech processes, she infuses her work with grace and understanding. It’s all about building Christian community – both inside the church walls and out!
Married Life and Working Together
Becca offers a fun glimpse into her life beyond work. For over 30 years, she and her husband David have thrived while working together on various church teams. It’s beautiful to see how shared experiences cultivate both a strong marriage and a shared work ethic.
Faith Through Knitting
One of Becca’s favorite hobbies is knitting – but for her, it’s much more than just yarn and needles. Discover how the craft is her special spiritual practice, helping her connect with God even during stressful times.
Welcome to Resurrection Stories, a podcast where we connect with people who call Resurrection Church their home. In this episode, we meet Carol, the Missions Director, who shares her inspiring journey of faith and her passion for serving others.
Carol’s journey begins with a search for a church that feels welcoming and inclusive. After experiencing disappointment in previous churches, she finds a home at Resurrection, where she is warmly welcomed and feels a connection to the community. This leads her to explore her spiritual gifts and embark on a fulfilling career in ministry.
One of the defining moments in Carol’s faith journey is the realization of her own need for grace. This understanding makes her approach to ministry more compassionate and inclusive, recognizing that everyone makes mistakes and deserves forgiveness.
Carol’s passion lies in connecting people with mission opportunities, both locally and globally. Whether it’s volunteering on a Saturday morning or embarking on a life-changing mission trip, she encourages everyone to get involved and experience the transformative power of serving others.
The episode concludes with Carol inviting listeners to explore the various mission opportunities available at Resurrection Church. You can learn more by visiting the church website, connecting with Carol directly, or listening to their podcast, “Bridging Cultures.”
This episode of Resurrection Stories welcomes Jonathan Foster, a seasoned church planter, author, and grief expert, to share his journey of faith and loss. Here’s what awaits you:
A story of resilience: Hear Jonathan’s personal experience navigating the profound grief of losing his daughter. He speaks with openness and honesty, acknowledging the raw pain and questioning that arise in the face of such loss.
Finding meaning in tragedy: Witness Jonathan’s theological transformation as he wrestles with unanswered questions. He dives into René Girard’s mimetic theory, uncovering a different perspective on Jesus’ sacrifice and God’s love.
Solidarity over solutions: Jonathan emphasizes the power of simply being present with those in grief. He challenges the “fix-it” mentality, advocating for creating safe spaces where vulnerability and authenticity are embraced.
A reminder of humanity: Jonathan’s journey reflects the depth and complexity of human experience. He encourages us to embrace our full selves, including our brokenness and imperfections, as part of God’s beautiful creation.
Hope amidst the shadows: While acknowledging the ongoing struggle with grief, Jonathan also points to the light of grace and love that shines through. He emphasizes the importance of finding communities that allow us to be truly ourselves, even in our darkest moments.
This episode of Resurrection Stories features Dr. Rebecca Chow, the Clinical Director of Counseling Services at Resurrection.
Dr. Chow shares her personal journey, influenced by her parents who were both ordained ministers. She initially considered becoming a pastor but felt drawn to helping people through mental health.
She discusses the impact of the pandemic on our collective mental health, highlighting the concept of “traumatic pandemic trauma” and its effect on our tolerance for stress and disagreement.
Here are some key takeaways:
- We are all experiencing “traumatic pandemic trauma” which has affected our brain chemistry and shortened our tolerance for stress.
- Compassion and self-awareness are crucial for navigating this state.
- Setting boundaries and seeking professional help are essential for individual and community well-being.
- Resurrection offers free mental health services to the community, including play therapy, individual therapy, and couples therapy.
Dr. Chow’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of mental health and the resources available to support us.
Welcome back to Resurrection Stories! We’re thrilled to have Lydia on the show, a pastor with a captivating story of faith and service. Her journey is one of transformation, questioning, and ultimately finding her true calling within the walls of Resurrection.
Growing Up in Faith: Lydia grew up in a unique household, raised by parents from different cultural and religious backgrounds. While church was a constant presence, it wasn’t until after experiencing significant loss in high school that her faith was truly challenged. Witnessing the pain and suffering, Lydia questioned the traditional narratives she’d been told, ultimately finding solace in the United Methodist Church with its inclusive message of grace and love.
A Calling Ignored: Lydia’s heart for caring shone through early on, even before pastoral ministry. Working in child protective services in Los Angeles, she faced immense struggles while supporting those in need. Though drawn to pastoral care, she initially held back due to limitations within her previous church.
Discovering her Path: Finding the United Methodist Church opened new doors for Lydia. Witnessing women in leadership roles ignited a spark, propelling her to pursue her calling. Seminary became the next step, and in 2016, Lydia returned to Kansas City, ready to serve as a pastor at Resurrection.
Life as a Connection and Care Pastor: Today, Lydia thrives in her role, offering support and guidance to those facing life’s challenges. Her empathy and genuine nature make her a beacon of hope, drawing people in and creating a safe space for open conversation and prayer.
Beyond the Pulpit: But Lydia’s impact extends far beyond Sunday services. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, reminding us that “without being healthy spiritually, mentally, and physically, then what we bring to the table is not our best self.” Her dedication to creating boundaries shows us that even pastors need rest and rejuvenation to truly serve others.
A Message for Everyone: Lydia’s story is one of strength, resilience, and unwavering faith. It’s a testament to the power of finding your voice within a supportive community, and the transformative impact of genuine human connection. Her journey proves that anyone, regardless of age or background, can find their purpose and make a difference in the world.
This episode of Resurrection Stories introduces Angie McCarthy, a woman whose story is one of resilience, faith, and finding strength after facing life’s challenges. Here are the key takeaways:
A life transformed: Angie’s life took a sudden turn after 14 years of marriage when her husband had an affair. This devastating experience led her to question everything she knew, but it also ignited a journey of personal growth and self-discovery.
Finding strength in faith: Despite the pain, Angie turned to her faith and found solace in the community around her. She experienced a defining moment at a concentration camp in Germany, where she felt God’s call to release her anger and begin to heal.
Embracing transparency: Angie is a champion of transparency. She believes that sharing our struggles and vulnerabilities is crucial for healing and connecting with others. She encourages listeners to be open and honest about their own experiences, especially in the often-silent realm of marital struggles.
Hope for the future: Through therapy, support from her community, and her own determination, Angie has emerged from her dark place. She is now married to a supportive partner and uses her experiences to help others facing similar challenges. She offers words of hope, reminding listeners that there is always light at the end of the tunnel, even in the darkest moments.
Connecting with Resurrection: Angie’s story resonates with the spirit of Resurrection, a church community that embraces transparency, support, and open dialogue. She is excited to join as co-host and use her platform to share inspiring stories and offer hope to those seeking guidance and connection.
This episode of Resurrection Stories features Denise Mersmann, the Care Coordination Director at Resurrection. Her story is one of transformation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to serving others.
Early Life and Loss: Denise grew up in a small town church where everyone felt like family. When she joined Resurrection with her young family, tragedy struck as her infant daughter, Caroline, passed away from leukemia. This immense loss could have shattered her faith, but instead, it became a turning point.
Finding Strength in Community: The outpouring of love and support from the Resurrection community during this difficult time helped Denise see the true meaning of Christian family. She received 400 sympathy cards, many from people she didn’t even know, each a testament to the church’s care and compassion. This experience deepened her faith and ignited a passion for serving others.
Sharing the Gift of Love: Denise’s role at Resurrection as Director of Connection and Care Ministry perfectly embodies her calling. She leads a team of volunteers, providing emotional and practical support to members in need. Whether it’s organizing meals, offering rides to appointments, or simply listening with a compassionate heart, Denise and her team make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
Witnessing Faith in Action: Denise’s story is not just about personal strength and resilience; it’s a testament to the transformative power of faith and community. She has seen firsthand how acts of kindness, big and small, can uplift spirits and offer hope in times of darkness. Witnessing the impact of her work and the dedication of her fellow volunteers fuels her passion and inspires her to continue serving.
A Message of Hope: Denise’s story is an invitation for all of us to embrace our own journeys of faith and service. She reminds us that even in the face of hardship, there is always a reason to hope. By opening our hearts and extending compassion to others, we can make a difference and contribute to building a stronger, more loving community.
Welcome to another inspirational episode of Resurrection Stories! Today, we have the privilege of hearing from Pastor Hyemi Lee Jones, a beacon of love and care at Resurrection Church. Join us as she shares her inspiring journey of faith, her passion for serving others, and how she found her true identity as a daughter of God.
Hyemi’s story is one of constant evolution and deep purpose. Growing up in Korea, she grappled with self-acceptance and struggled to find her place in the world. A pivotal moment came when she heard God’s calling, leading her to study theology in America. Despite having a comfortable life back home, Hyemi followed her faith, embarking on a path of exploration and discovery.
At Yale Divinity School, Hyemi encountered patients during her CPE internship. It was in their stories, their vulnerability, and their resilience that she found her calling. Witnessing the presence of God in others helped Hyemi see His presence in her own life, finally embracing her identity as a child of God.
This revelation became her guiding light. Instead of pursuing the traditional path towards pastoral ministry, Hyemi found her calling in service. She became a chaplain, listening to the wounded and carrying their burdens, a role that perfectly echoed her desire to alleviate suffering and share God’s love.
Today, at Resurrection, Hyemi serves as the Director of Connection and Care Ministry. Leading a team of passionate staff and volunteers, she provides support and comfort to those in need, offering hope and guidance during difficult times. Hyemi’s dedication to this mission is evident in her every word, her warm smile, and her genuine desire to serve.
When asked about her legacy, Hyemi humbly emphasizes the importance of simply doing the work God has called her to do. She believes in planting seeds of faith and leaving the harvest to God’s timing. This perspective serves as a reminder that every act of service, no matter how small, can have a profound impact.
This episode of Resurrection Stories is more than just an interview; it’s an invitation. Hyemi’s story invites us to embrace our own journeys, to discover our unique gifts, and to use them to make the world a more loving and compassionate place.
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends and family, and consider visiting Resurrection to experience the impact, community, and transformation that God has in store for you. Remember, at Resurrection, there’s a place for everyone, and you might just find your own path to transformation and deeper faith.
Welcome to Resurrection Stories! Today, we’re thrilled to have Pastor Cheryl Jefferson Bell, a beacon of love and justice at Resurrection. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about her faith journey, her passionate work in community justice, and the amazing spirit of Resurrection.
Cheryl’s story is one of deep faith and unwavering conviction. Growing up in a Methodist family, the church became her safe haven and a place of acceptance. A pivotal moment came during her confirmation, where she felt God’s spirit fill her. This experience ignited a fire for social justice that continues to guide her path.
As Resurrection’s Pastor of Community Justice, Cheryl leads the charge in closing the “justice and kindness gap.” She spearheads initiatives like Allies for Racial Justice, the LGBTQ+ Ministry, and EarthCOR, demonstrating Resurrection’s commitment to living its faith in the world.
But what truly shines through is Cheryl’s genuine love for the people of Resurrection. She speaks of their “caring, generous, loving” spirit, and it’s clear that this community is her home.
When asked about her legacy, Cheryl hopes to be remembered as someone who made people feel loved and accepted. This simple yet powerful aspiration speaks volumes about her character and the impact she has on everyone around her.
This episode is more than just Cheryl’s story; it’s an invitation to join Resurrection’s journey. If you’re searching for a welcoming community that lives its faith in action, come visit Resurrection! Be inspired by Cheryl’s story, experience the warmth of the congregation, and discover your own path to deepening your faith.
This episode features Darryl Burton, a Connection and Care Pastor at Resurrection and the founder of the organization Miracle of Innocence. Darryl shares his incredible journey from being wrongly incarcerated for 25 years to finding faith and dedicating his life to becoming a messenger of grace.
Key points from Darryl’s story:
- He spent 25 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
- He initially rejected faith but found hope, transformation, and purpose in the teachings of Jesus.
- He started Miracle of Innocence to help other wrongly incarcerated individuals.
- The Church of the Resurrection has been a great supporter of Darryl and his mission.
- His message is one of hope and forgiveness.
This episode offers a heartwarming and inspiring message about overcoming adversity and finding hope through faith and community.
