Rev. Joel Simpson joins Affirming Methodism for a powerful conversation on faith that refuses to stay confined to the pulpit. As a pastor, moral-justice organizer, preacher, and scholar, Joel reflects on the moments that shaped his calling to move from sermons to organizing, protest, and deep community engagement—including his recent arrest in Washington, DC. Together, we explore the tension between belief and action, the risks of prophetic ministry, and how the church can faithfully engage justice work rooted in hope, courage, and collective action.

In this month’s episode of Affirming Methodism, Marianne & Tracy sit down with Patti Kreis to explore the story and impact of Light of Christ’s Angel Tree—how it strengthens our partnerships, supports families locally and globally, and reflects our mission as a church. We also hear from Kayla, Alyssa, and Mikah, three of our young “angels,” as they share why this ministry matters and what it means to them to help lead our congregation in generosity this season.

This month on Affirming Methodism, we’re joined by Brittany Bethel and Makena Bellamy of Cross Connection to explore the inspiring transformation happening at Parkview Community Center. Through adaptive leadership and deep listening to the neighborhood’s needs, Parkview has become a living example of faith in action—where God’s presence is seen in community connection, compassion, and new life emerging in unexpected ways. Tune in to hear how this story of transformation invites us all to expand our understanding of who God is and what’s possible when the Church opens its heart to the world around it.

In this month’s episode of Affirming Methodism, hosts Marianne and Taylor sit down with Rev. Nathan Arledge, Senior Pastor of Harrison UMC, to talk about what it means to be an outward-focused missional church. Together, they explore how congregations can respond to injustice, gun violence, racism, and human rights violations with advocacy, hospitality, and action. Rev. Arledge shares stories of leading mission efforts in response to natural disasters and alongside immigrant communities, as well as his vision for how churches like Light of Christ and Harrison can partner in justice and mercy.

This month on Affirming Methodism, host Marianne is joined by guest co-host Tracy Vassil, our Director of Children’s Ministry and a former teacher, for a conversation about the education system in North Carolina. Together with two LOC members who are current teachers, we discuss the challenges educators and students face today and how the church can play a meaningful role in supporting them both inside and outside the classroom.

In this month’s episode of Affirming Methodism, we’re joined by Allie Black, Marisa Romanat, and Austin Romanat—directors for this summer for Cross Connection. They share life updates, reflect on how Light of Christ and Cross Connection have shaped their journeys, and offer a look into what’s ahead for their summer of service. Tune in to hear how we can support and pray for them as they lead with love and purpose.

In this month’s episode of Affirming Methodism, we’re joined by Rev. Dawn Hand, Director of Equity and Justice for the Western NC Conference. We talk about her past ministries, her passion for justice, and how her work is shaping a more inclusive future for our churches and communities.

This month on Affirming Methodism, we’re joined by Rev. Emily Bagwell, Director of Resource Management & Development at Reconciling Ministries Network (RMN). We discuss her role at RMN, their current initiatives, and their vision for the future. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about the impact and ongoing mission of RMN in creating a more just and affirming church.