In this episode of Going the MILE, Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth talks with Julie O’Neal about a call shaped by youth ministry, seminary, and long-term service in conference and general church leadership. Julie is a Desert Southwest Conference delegate and staff member. As a PK (pastor’s kid), Julie grew up immersed in the life of the church, yet her discernment led her toward a lay ministry path rather than ordination. Her story highlights a deep commitment to helping the church thrive through thoughtful administration, formation, and support of young people.

For more information, feedback, or guest ideas, please reach out to: communications@greaternw.org

In this episode of Going the MILE: Stories of Calling and Ministry in the Greater Northwest, Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth speaks with Rev. Ashley Skinner Creek, Assistant Dean at Seattle Pacific Seminary. Ashley reflects on a call shaped less by one defining moment and more by a series of faithful “small yeses”, serving in the local church, being affirmed by trusted voices, and gradually stepping into ordained ministry and seminary leadership.

For more information, feedback, or guest ideas, please reach out to: communications@greaternw.org

In this episode of Going the MILE: Stories of Calling and Ministry in the Greater Northwest, Bishop Cedrick Bridgeforth is joined by Dr. Joyce del Rosario, Executive Director of the Faith Action Network in Washington State. Joyce traces her call back to family, faith, and a defining moment as a young adult that shaped decades of ministry with youth, immigrant communities, and families on the margins, eventually leading her into teaching, organizing, and public policy advocacy.

Joyce’s journey embodies the heart of MILE. Ministry that Matters is reflected in her lifelong commitment to justice. Itineration & Location show up in how her call has carried her from neighborhood ministry to statewide advocacy. Lay Ministry Enhancement is evident in her work equipping people of many faiths to act together. And Eliminating Racism runs through her insistence on listening to marginalized voices and trusting a God who moves first at the edges. Joyce’s story is a reminder that a single call, faithfully held, can shape a lifetime of transformation.

For more information, feedback, or guest ideas, please reach out to: communications@greaternw.org