The new year isn’t just about fresh starts—it’s about wise reflection. In this episode, we slow down to look back on the past year and talk honestly about what shaped us, stretched us, and strengthened us. Then we turn our eyes forward, considering how to move into the new year with intention, faith, and a clearer sense of direction. If you’re feeling reflective, hopeful, or somewhere in between, this episode is for you.

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From First Week to First Year: The Pastoral Journey dives into the real-life experiences of a brand-new pastor navigating the early days of ministry. Join us as we talk about the excitement, challenges, and lessons that come with stepping into church leadership for the very first time. From preaching your first sermon to handling pastoral care, building relationships, managing expectations, and finding healthy rhythms — this conversation offers insight for anyone in ministry or preparing to be. Whether you’re a new pastor, a seminary student, or a church leader looking to encourage the next generation, this episode gives an honest look at what it’s really like to begin your pastoral journey.

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(00:02) From First Week to First Year
(13:44) Stepping Into a New Role
(19:51) Building Relationships in Ministry
(34:27) Seeking Success and Impact in Ministry
(40:05) Measuring Success and Reviving Faith
(43:57) Navigating Ministry Expectations and Growth

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This Christmas, we’re exploring the spiritual rhythm of returning to the manger year after year. Like the shepherds, the Magi, and generations of faithful believers, we are invited to make an annual pilgrimage—not just to a place, but into the story of Jesus’ birth, His humility, and God’s faithfulness.

In this episode, we reflect on how these yearly journeys shape our faith: they help us remember God’s promises, reflect on His work in our lives, and build trust that carries us through the year. We’ll discuss how pilgrimage—whether literal or spiritual—connects us to God, to our communities, and to the generations of believers who have gone before us.

Whether you gather around a nativity, read the Christmas story, or simply pause to reflect, this episode will encourage you to make the season more than a tradition—to make it a transformative spiritual journey that strengthens your faith, renews your hope, and reminds you of God’s unchanging love.

(00:01) A Christmas Day reflection
(05:10) The manger and the empty tomb as destinations
(10:56) Faith strengthened through recurring rhythms
(14:40) Reflection, renewal, and hope for the year ahead

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