Your Week with St. Luke’s

Pentecost: The Spirit Matters

Mon, 18 May 2026 06:25:00 -0400

What happens when the Holy Spirit interrupts ordinary life? In this Pentecost episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Corey and Melissa dive into Acts 2:1–21 and explore how God’s Spirit transformed fearful disciples into a courageous, compassionate community that carried the story of Jesus into the world. Together, they reflect on the meaning of Pentecost as more than a dramatic moment of wind, fire, and speaking in different languages. It is the reminder that God still breathes new life into ordinary people today. Through honest conversation and personal stories, Corey and Melissa wrestle with what it means to listen for the Spirit in seasons of uncertainty, disruption, waiting, and community. They talk about how the Holy Spirit gathers diverse people together without erasing their differences, how God often works through both careful plans and unexpected interruptions, and why faith was never meant to be lived alone. Whether you are longing for direction, feeling stuck, or simply wondering how God might still be moving in your life, this episode offers a hopeful invitation to pay attention. The Spirit may be closer than you think.

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Simply Invite

Mon, 11 May 2026 10:10:36 -0400

What do we do with the parts of our story we wish we could undo? In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Corey and Melissa reflect on one of the most tender and human moments in the Gospel of John: the resurrected Jesus meeting Peter beside a breakfast fire in John 21:15–19. After denial, shame, and failure, Peter expects judgment—but instead receives grace, restoration, and a renewed calling to “feed my sheep.” Together, Corey and Melissa explore what it means to follow Jesus after we’ve gotten it wrong, why failure doesn’t disqualify us from purpose, and how love and forgiveness can reshape the way we care for others. This conversation speaks to anyone who has wrestled with guilt, questioned their worth, or wondered if God could still use them after a mistake. Honest, thoughtful, and deeply hopeful, this episode invites listeners to see themselves in Peter’s story—and to hear Jesus’ invitation to begin again.

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Servant Evangelism

Mon, 04 May 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Corey and Melissa reflect on John 21 and the powerful post-resurrection moment when Jesus meets his disciples in the midst of their ordinary lives—after a long, fruitless night of fishing—and quietly serves them breakfast on the shore. Their conversation explores how resurrection isn’t just found in dramatic or extraordinary moments, but in the everyday rhythms of work, disappointment, and community. As they unpack the symbolism of the overflowing nets, the disciples’ return to what is familiar, and in the simple act of sharing a meal, listeners are invited to consider how Jesus continues to show up in our ordinary spaces, offering grace before words and abundance before action. This episode challenges us to recognize where we are being called to embody Christ in daily life, trusting that we are not alone as we are sent out to live, love, and lead in community.

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Living Proof

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 07:30:00 -0400

Is doubt the opposite of faith? In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we continue our Eastertide journey through “Love University” in the Commons, exploring what it means to live as a resurrection community through the story of Thomas in John 20:24–29. In a thoughtful and engaging conversation, Pastors Corey, Jad, and Melissa reflect on Thomas’s so-called “doubt,” reframing it not as a failure of faith but as an honest, even necessary, part of it—one that invites curiosity, naming our questions, and deeper encounter with Christ. Together, they consider how Jesus meets Thomas exactly where he is, how faith can look different across a community, and how doubt, when explored rather than dismissed, can lead to a more personal and resilient faith. This episode invites listeners to see their own questions not as barriers, but as openings to grow in faith alongside others.

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Shaped by Forgiveness

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, St. Luke’s Pastors Corey, Jad, and Melissa reflect on John 20:19–23, exploring how the risen Jesus meets the disciples in their fear, speaks peace into their anxiety, and immediately sends them out with the gift of the Holy Spirit and the responsibility of forgiveness. The conversation highlights the movement from fear to joy, from disorientation to purpose, and wrestles with the weight and necessity of forgiveness as central to the Christian life—suggesting that true peace is deeply connected to our willingness to both receive and extend grace. Ultimately, the episode invites listeners to see themselves as part of a resurrection community, shaped by forgiveness and called to embody Christ’s peace in the world.

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Special Episode: Celebrating Autism Acceptance Month @ St. Luke's!

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:01:00 -0400

In this special episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad is joined by St. Lukers Dayani Fernando and Mark Niederman for an honest and hope-filled conversation marking Autism Awareness Month—while inviting listeners to move beyond awareness toward true acceptance. Through personal stories and faith-centered reflection, they explore the wide spectrum of autism, the challenges families face, and the often-overlooked strengths and gifts of those on the spectrum. Together, they invite the church to become a more inclusive and compassionate community—one that listens deeply, embraces difference, and lives out the truth that every person is a beloved child of God, created with purpose and worthy of belonging.

Formed for Fellowship

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this Eastertide episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Corey, Jad, and Melissa reflect on Luke 24:36–49, exploring the powerful moment when the risen Jesus appears to his disciples—speaking peace into their fear even as they struggle with doubt. Through honest conversation, they unpack the tension of believing in something that feels “too good to be true,” highlighting how Jesus meets the disciples in their uncertainty, invites them to see and touch his resurrected body, and even eats with them to reveal his presence. The discussion emphasizes that doubt does not disqualify faith; instead, Jesus continually shows up, opens minds to understanding, and calls imperfect, questioning people to be witnesses together. This episode invites listeners to consider how Christ still meets us today—in our fear, in community, and in the everyday moments where resurrection hope becomes real.

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Remember and Recognize

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, the pastors kick off our new Eastertide series, The Commons, reflecting on Luke 24 and the story of the road to Emmaus, exploring what it means to live as a resurrection community. As two disciples walk in confusion, grief, and disappointment, the risen Jesus meets them along the way—though they do not recognize him at first. Through their conversation, Pastors Corey, Jad, and Melissa unpack how context, emotion, and unmet expectations can cloud our ability to see Christ at work, even when he is near. It is ultimately in the breaking of the bread that their eyes are opened, revealing the power of community, scripture, and the table to make Christ known. This conversation invites listeners to consider how Jesus is present in their own journeys, especially in seasons of uncertainty, and challenges them to walk together in faith, remain open to encountering Christ in unexpected places, and share their stories of transformation with others.

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Holy Week @ the Crossroads

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, the final episode of our Lenten series Crossroads, pastors Corey, Melissa, and Jad invite us into the depth and significance of Holy Week as more than just a lead-up to Easter, but as the very heart of the Christian story. Walking through the movement from Palm Sunday to the Last Supper, the cross, and the stillness of Holy Saturday, they reflect on how these sacred days reveal not only who Jesus is—through love, humility, and sacrifice—but also who we are, in both our brokenness and our capacity for grace. This conversation encourages us to slow down, resist skipping ahead to resurrection, and instead fully engage the tension, beauty, and challenge of the week that changes everything.

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Final Seminar: Misunderstood Love

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad reflects on the Palm Sunday story from Matthew 21 as the culmination of the Lenten Crossroads series, inviting listeners to wrestle with the tension between expectation and the way of Jesus. While the crowds shout the right words— “Hosanna” and “Son of David”—they misunderstand the kind of king Jesus is, expecting power and triumph while he embodies humility, gentleness, and sacrificial love, entering on a donkey rather than a war horse. Matthew’s telling reveals that it’s possible to say all the right things about Jesus and still miss his way entirely, as the same crowd that praises him will later turn against him. This episode challenges listeners to examine their own expectations of Jesus and consider whether they are willing to follow a king whose path leads not to spectacle or success, but to surrender, nonviolence, and the cross—especially as they prepare to enter the journey of Holy Week.

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Love 501: Love through Loss

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we continue our Lenten series, Crossroads, by exploring John 11 and the powerful story of the raising of Lazarus. Pastor Jad reflects on how the story unfolds less as a miracle tale and more as a series of conversations that reveal who Jesus is, culminating in his declaration, “I am the resurrection and the life.” As Martha, Mary, and their grieving community wrestle with loss and the painful question of why Jesus arrived too late, the story invites us to consider what faith looks like in the midst of grief and uncertainty. Jesus’ tears remind us that God meets us not only in celebration but also in sorrow, and the raising of Lazarus becomes a turning point that reveals both the promise of resurrection life now and the crossroads where belief, doubt, love, and loss intersect.

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Love 401: Learning to See Differently

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we explore John 9 and the story of Jesus healing the man born blind through the lens of our Lenten series Crossroads and this week's theme: Learning to See Differently. What begins as a story about physical sight becomes a deeper reflection on perception, assumptions, and spiritual openness. As the man who was blind gradually recognizes who Jesus is, the religious authorities who believe they see clearly become unable to recognize God’s work in their midst. Drawing on insights from Disability Theology, this episode invites listeners to reconsider common interpretations of suffering and disability, to reflect on how society often overlooks or marginalizes people, and to ask where God’s work might be revealed in unexpected places. Ultimately, the story challenges us to examine our own assumptions, listen to voices we may have ignored, and allow the light of Christ to transform the way we see the world and one another.

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Love 301: Unseen and Chosen

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad explores the powerful encounter between Jesus and the Samaritan woman in John 4:5–42, a story that unfolds at the crossroads of culture, theology, and human division. As part of our Lenten journey, this lesson reveals how Jesus intentionally crosses boundaries of ethnicity, gender, and religion to reveal God’s living water to someone society had overlooked. Rather than a story of shame, this passage becomes a story of revelation: a conversation that transforms an unseen woman into a courageous witness and expands the understanding of worship, salvation, and belonging beyond the limits people try to impose. Through rich biblical insight and historical context, Pastor Jad invites listeners to see how Jesus meets people in contested spaces—and how the church is called to follow him, crossing boundaries so that God’s love can reach the whole world.

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Love 201: Letting Love Change You

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad explores Gospel of John 3:1–17 through Jesus’ nighttime conversation with Nicodemus, inviting listeners to reflect on what it means to be “born from above.” Unpacking the rich symbolism and double meanings in John’s Gospel: light and darkness, wind and Spirit, lifting up and exaltation, the episode examines how sincere faith can coexist with honest questions. Centered on John 3:16, Pastor Jad reframes this well-known verse within its broader context, emphasizing God’s love for a confused and resistant world and clarifying that Jesus’ mission is not condemnation but salvation. This conversation encourages listeners to release control, trust the movement of the Spirit, and embrace the transforming love of God that brings eternal life not just someday, but beginning now.

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Love 101: Resisting False Power

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0500

In this special episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad launches the Lenten series called Crossroads with a reflection on Matthew 4:1–11, where Jesus faces temptation in the wilderness. Framed as “Love 101: Resisting False Power,” the episode explores how Jesus, freshly named God’s beloved Son at his baptism, is tested not in his identity but in what that identity means. Drawing connections to Israel’s wilderness story, Pastor Jad unpacks three temptations: self-sufficiency, spectacle, and compromise, and shows how each invites Jesus to misuse power for self-protection, self-validation, or control. Instead, Jesus chooses trust, faithful dependence, and wholehearted allegiance to God. Listeners are invited to see Lent not as punishment but as formation, a season to notice where we grasp for control and to practice small, intentional acts of trust that reflect the way of love.

Join us on the free LivetheRhythm app to reflect on the scripture and find community with others.

Preparing for Ash Wednesday

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad invites listeners to step thoughtfully into the season of Lent by exploring the meaning and history of Ash Wednesday. Tracing Lent’s roots to the early church as a season of communal preparation, repentance, and renewal, he explains the biblical symbolism of ashes as signs of mortality and truth-telling before God. Reflecting on Matthew 6, Pastor Jad unpacks Jesus’ teaching on almsgiving, prayer, and fasting, highlighting the difference between public faith and performative faith and challenging us to examine our motives and “audience.” Rather than focusing on outward ritual, this episode reframes Lent as an invitation to reorder our desires, prepare our hearts, and walk honestly toward the cross and the hope of resurrection.

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Join us for worship on Ash Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary and live online

Lead All U Can

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, all four pastors come together to explore what it truly means to lead our lives as disciples of Jesus in everyday, ordinary life. Rooted in 2 Peter 1 (from The Message), the conversation reflects on discipleship as transformation rather than perfection; faith that moves from belief into embodied practice through God’s grace. Using rich Wesleyan imagery like stepping into the “river of grace,” the pastors discuss prevenient, justifying, and sanctifying grace, emphasizing growth over time, authenticity over polish, and participation over passivity. They wrestle honestly with failure, formation, and the public square, showing how God’s story shapes real decisions, leadership, justice, and love in the world. This episode invites listeners to stop tiptoeing, lean into grace, and lead lives formed by Jesus... together.

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Love All U Can

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 05:15:00 -0500

This episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s continues the Love University journey by exploring what it truly means to love God through worship, using Jesus’ conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4. Together, all 4 St. Luke’s pastors unpack how Jesus reframes worship away from arguments about the “right” place or style and toward worshiping God in spirit and truth—something communal, formative, and deeply lived. The conversation highlights worship as a spiritual discipline and a shared practice of giving ourselves to God, not simply a service we attend or an experience we consume, but a kind of dress rehearsal that shapes how we live, love, and lead in the world. Listeners are invited to engage scripture throughout the week, wrestle with it in community, and come to worship ready to be formed and sent out to embody God’s story in everyday life.

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Live All U Can in Community... Practice

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:15:00 -0500

This episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s invites listeners into a reflection on what it truly means to live God’s story in community. As part of the Love University series, Pastor Melissa and Pastor Jad explore Acts 2:42–47, one of the earliest snapshots of the church, highlighting practices of teaching, prayer, shared meals, generosity, and deep connection. Their conversation unpacks how these simple yet radical rhythms challenge modern ideas of independence and ownership, reminding us that faith is formed not in isolation but in shared life together. From small groups and shared tables to generosity, disagreement with grace, and showing up for one another, this episode emphasizes that the church is less about a place we go and more about a people we become... living out the gospel together in tangible, life-giving ways.

Get connected to small groups and classes at st.lukes.org/adults

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Learn All U Can... Skills and Drills

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 12:06:48 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we kick off the new year and introduce Love University, St. Luke’s 2026 theme centered on learning to live, love, and lead like Jesus. 3 of our pastors (Jenn, Corey, and Jad) explore St. Luke’s discipleship rhythm—Learn, Live, Love, Lead—and why deep engagement with scripture matters for faithful, thoughtful Christian living today. Drawing from Deuteronomy 11 and Matthew 22, the conversation highlights scripture as a lived, embodied practice that shapes daily life, community, worship, and public witness. The episode invites listeners to grow as “public theologians,” develop lifelong habits of learning God’s story, and take part in upcoming classes and studies designed to help faith take root beyond Sunday mornings.

Get connected to small groups and classes at st.lukes.org/adults

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Christmas is Here!

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 05:15:00 -0500

As Christmas Eve approaches, Pastors Jen, Jad, and Melissa invite listeners to look beyond the familiar glow of candles and carols and rediscover the deeper, incarnational meaning of this holy night. Rooted in Isaiah’s promise of light in the darkness and the grounded reality of Luke 2, this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s reflects on a God who does not arrive in perfection or comfort, but enters fully into a world of dust, blood, struggle, and hope. The conversation explores how the incarnation calls us to stop looking away from suffering, to understand peace as real reconciliation and justice, and to embrace a faith shaped by God’s nearness rather than distance. Ultimately, the pastors remind us that Christmas is about making room—within ourselves and our communities—for Christ to be born anew, growing in us and calling us into lives of presence, love, and incarnational discipleship.

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Advent Week 4: Joy

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0500

As Advent draws to a close and we approach the Sunday of Joy, this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s explores a surprising path to joy through Joseph’s often-overlooked annunciation in Matthew 1. St. Luke’s pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa reflect on how Joseph, a righteous man shaped by duty, expectation, and responsibility, is invited to loosen his grip, trust God’s work, and say yes to a story that disrupts all his plans. In a season when many feel overwhelmed by obligations and the pressure for everything to be “just right,” this conversation asks how we might move from fear to faith, from box-checking to presence, and from anticipation to participation. The episode invites listeners to release perfection, embrace the unexpected, and discover that true joy is found in naming Jesus in the midst of a real, messy life—Emmanuel, God with us.

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Advent Week 3: Love

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 10:40:14 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa take us into the theme of love through the story of Mary visiting Elizabeth in Luke 1. Reflecting on the moment when Elizabeth feels John leap in her womb, they discuss how the presence of Christ brings confirmation, transformation, and a deep sense of God’s love that moves from head to heart. Drawing connections to John Wesley’s “heart strangely warmed” and even the Grinch’s growing heart, the conversation invites listeners to notice the moments when God’s love shows up in real and tangible ways as we continue our Advent journey.

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Advent Week 2: Peace

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:30:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore the theme of peace through Luke 1 and Mary’s encounter with the angel Gabriel. They share personal reflections on seeking peace amid life’s chaos, discuss Mary’s courageous trust and agency, and wonder about the spiritual shaping that prepared her to say “yes” to God’s call. Drawing connections to the season, daily life, and popular movies, the conversation invites listeners to consider how peace and trust intertwine, how God meets us in turmoil, and how we stay attentive to God’s voice.

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Advent week 1: Hope

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we launch our new Advent series, A REEL Christmas: You Can’t Make This Up, exploring how beloved Christmas films help us make sense of a world that often feels unbelievable—yet the hope God offers is even more extraordinary. Pastors Jenn, Melissa, and Jad reflect on Isaiah 9, the theme of hope, and the surprising promise that God’s light enters the world not through power, but through a child. As we begin the Christian year, this episode invites you to clear space for wonder, confront cynicism, and prepare room for Christ to be born anew in our lives. Join us for a deep and hope-filled start to Advent.

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Who is your king?

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, all three pastors (Jenn, Jad, and Melissa) gather to close out the Christian year with a conversation on Christ the King Sunday and the culmination of our month-long focus on gratitude. Together, they explore what it means to claim Christ as Lord in a world full of competing allegiances, how worship recenters us in community, and why generosity is a spiritual discipline rooted in trust rather than pressure. Reflecting on 2 Corinthians 9, they discuss how giving reveals the posture of our hearts, how worship shapes our daily lives, and how the rhythms of discipleship prepare us long before moments of crisis arise. This rich conversation sets the stage for a Sunday filled with praise, thanksgiving, and a renewed commitment to live as citizens of God’s kingdom.

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Commit to the Future - With Gratitude for the Hope

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 05:30:00 -0500

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad explores Nehemiah 2. As we close our November series, Lead Courageously with Gratitude, we look ahead with gratitude for the hope God gives us to rebuild what’s been broken. Through Nehemiah’s story, we’re reminded that faithful leadership begins with noticing, that hope rooted in gratitude gives us courage to act, and that rebuilding—whether in our lives, our church, or our community—is sacred work. Join us as we reflect on how God’s gracious hand still leads us to say together, “Let’s start building.”

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Embrace the Moment - With Gratitude for the Mission

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad invites us to reflect on what it means to “clothe ourselves with love” from Colossians 3:12–17. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful teaching, he explores how virtues like compassion, humility, gentleness, and patience shape a community that mirrors Christ’s fullness and peace. Drawing from the letter’s historical and theological depth, Pastor Jad reminds us that gratitude is not just a feeling but a posture—a way of living courageously and serving faithfully in response to God’s grace. As we embrace gratitude for our mission, we’re encouraged to let love be the connective tissue that holds us together and to let our thankfulness become the melody of our daily lives.

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Remember the Courage - With Gratitude for the Dream

Sun, 26 Oct 2025 19:35:00 -0400

In this episode Your Week with St. Luke’s, we’re invited to reflect on how gratitude shapes the way we lead—in our church, families, workplaces, and community, as we kick off a new series called Lead Courageously with Gratitude. Through the lens of Israel’s crossing of the Jordan, Pastor Jad unpacks the book of Joshua as a theological reflection on covenant faithfulness, remembrance, and the living presence of God. The episode challenges us to identify our own “stones of remembrance,” the moments and people who have shaped our faith, and to consider how our gratitude today can give courage to the next generation.

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Make Room for Joy

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jenn and Liz sit down with Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio to explore the radical power of hospitality—how scripture calls us to welcome not just friends, but strangers and even God in unexpected forms. Together they unpack what it means to “make room” in our homes, our churches, and our lives when true hospitality disrupts our comfort zones. It’s a conversation that challenges the easy version of welcome and invites us into the deeper, more transformative kind—the kind that changes both guest and host.

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Pour It Out

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jenn and Liz continue their conversation with Dr. Ryan Bonfilio from The Candler Foundry as they explore 2 Kings 4:1–7—the story of a widow, a jar of oil, and a God who transforms scarcity into abundance. Together they wrestle with what it really means to trust God’s provision, especially when our instinct is to hoard rather than share. This honest and hope-filled discussion invites listeners to consider how faith, community, and generosity reveal God’s ongoing miracles in everyday life.

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Dig Anyway

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:30:00 -0400

Three kings lost in a desert, a prophet who calls for music before a miracle, and a divine command to dig ditches in dry ground—what does faith look like when the world feels barren? In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Dr. Ryan Bonfilio from the Candler Foundry joins Pastor Jenn and Liz to unpack 2 Kings 3 and explore what it means to prepare for God’s abundance even when hope seems impossible. Together, they dive into the tension between faith and politics, the power of empathy, and the challenge of living “as if God is real.” This conversation will leave you asking: What ditches am I digging in my own life as I wait for God’s rain?

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Pick Up the Cloak

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we launch a new series: Serve Joyfully, reflecting on the dramatic story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2. Pastor Jenn and Liz are joined by Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio from the Candler Foundry and together they explore how Elijah’s departure in a fiery whirlwind and Elisha’s courageous step into leadership illustrate the challenges and blessings of answering God’s call. They unpack the role of prophets in Israel’s history—not as royal yes-men, but as truth-tellers and checks on power—and highlight how influence often outweighs authority in God’s work. Through discussion of mantles, water-parting miracles, and the symbolism of leadership transitions, the conversation draws parallels to modern faith, church leadership, and personal calling, inviting us to see ourselves in Elisha’s determination to step forward with courage and God’s Spirit.

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Prove Love

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad closes out the Love Boldly series by diving into Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 22:34–40, where he names love of God and love of neighbor as the heart of the entire law. As you listen, you’ll be invited to imagine yourself in the story: as a Pharisee questioning Jesus, a disciple listening in, or a member of Matthew’s community seeking hope in uncertain times. What happens when we see love not as optional, but as the very foundation of faith? Join us as we discover how bold, practical love shapes our lives, our relationships, and our community today.

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Offer up the REAL Jesus

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we’ll explore Jesus’ command in John 15 to “love one another as I have loved you” alongside the vision of the early church in Acts 2, where believers devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, prayer, and radical generosity. Pastor Jenn reminds us that Jesus redefined friendship as sacrificial love, a love embodied in bold, risky action for the sake of others. Drawing from John Wesley’s rule to “do good,” she emphasizes that acts of love are not optional niceties but channels of God’s grace and powerful witnesses to Christ. The Acts 2 church demonstrates how this love becomes structural, reorganizing life around community and care for the vulnerable, which in turn draws others to faith. What does this mea for today’s church?

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Heal the Harm

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Melissa continues the Love Boldly series by exploring John Wesley’s first General Rule—“Do no harm”—and reframing it as the church’s call to heal the harm. Drawing on Isaiah 58:6–12, she unpacks the prophet’s challenge to move beyond empty ritual toward authentic devotion expressed through justice, compassion, and restoration. The message invites us to consider how the church can repair harm—especially harm it has caused—by feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, and dismantling systems of oppression, ultimately becoming “repairers of the breach” and a community that restores hope, justice, and healing.

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It's JUST that simple

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of "Your Week with St. Luke’s,” we kick off a new series called Love Boldly, where we’ll explore what it means to practice genuine love and overcome evil with good, taking an innovative look at John Wesley's three simple rules and and focusing on practicing love as a verb. St. Luke’s Pastor Jad unpacks Romans 12:9-21, where the Apostle Paul outlines love as the ethic and heartbeat of Christian living. But not just any love, bold love, love that runs against many of our instincts and is needed to heal the world.

Find discussion questions and learn in community with others at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Lead Your Life Boldly

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this final episode of the Change Makers series, St. Luke’s Pastor Jenn invites us to reflect on what it means to lead our lives with courage, humility, and faithfulness rooted in God’s presence. Drawing from Joshua 1:1–9, one of the Bible’s most pivotal leadership transitions, she unpacks God’s call to “be strong and courageous” as an act of trust rather than ego—reminding us that bold leadership isn’t about having all the answers but about faithfully stepping forward with God by our side. Whether you’re facing change, discerning a calling, or simply longing to live your faith more boldly, this episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for taking your next faithful step as a true change maker.

Download the free Change Makers series guide at st.lukes.org/changemakers

Find a new small group at st.lukes.org/adults

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Raise Your Voice

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jenn explores the call to be Change Makers by lifting our voices for justice through two powerful scriptures: Proverbs 31:8–9 and Micah 6:8. Together, these passages challenge us to move beyond private faith into public action—speaking up for the voiceless, practicing mercy, and walking humbly with God. With insights from wisdom literature, prophetic voices, and Methodist tradition, this episode invites us to see justice not as an abstract idea but as love made visible in the world. Tune in for inspiration and a challenge: where is your voice of justice, mercy, and love needed today?

Download the free Change Makers series guide at st.lukes.org/changemakers

Find a new small group at st.lukes.org/adults

Start Where You Are

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jenn continues the Change Makers series by exploring the parable of the Good Samaritan through a fresh lens. She challenges us to shift from passive belief to active discipleship—starting right where we are. Drawing on scripture, historical context, and insights from theologians, Pastor Jenn reminds us that mercy is more than a feeling—it’s a costly, boundary-breaking action rooted in love. Just as the Samaritan came near, risking comfort and safety to care for a stranger, we too are called to see those in need right in front of us and act with compassion, regardless of differences. True change, she says, begins when we let mercy—not fear or prejudice—define our faith and choose to be a neighbor to those God places in our path.

Download the free Change Makers series guide at st.lukes.org/changemakers

Find a new small group at st.lukes.org/adults

Do Something

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 00:01:00 -0400

In this first episode of our Change Makers series, Pastor Jenn invites us to move from belief to bold action by exploring the powerful connection between faith and works in James 2. Building on Jesus’ call to be salt and light, she challenges us to live out our discipleship by fighting modern-day “dragons”—acts of injustice, favoritism, and spiritual bypassing—through everyday faith in action. With insights from the early church, John Wesley, and even the musical Big Fish, this episode sets the foundation for what it means to live the rhythm of faithful change-making.

Download a free digital series guide at st.lukes.org/changemakers

Be the Hero of Your Story

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 11:24:00 -0400

In the final episode of our Big Fish series, Pastor Jenn and the creative team reflect on what it means to “be the hero of your own story” through the lens of faith, theater, and transformation. They discuss how telling stories—both our own and others’—can be an act of courage, healing, and grace. This conversation celebrates the power of community, the gift of perspective, and the ways God meets us in the midst of our wild, wonderful, unfinished stories.

Catch previous episodes at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Get tickets to Big Fish at st.lukes.org/bigfish.

Sacred Imagination and the Stories We Tell

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:07:23 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we continue our special Big Fish Series and pick up where we left off. Together with Kelly Morris Rowan, Dustin Russell, and Steve MacKinnon, Pastor Jenn leads a thoughtful exploration into how imagination, grace, and vulnerability come alive on stage and in life. The group discusses how storytelling helps us recognize truth even in fiction—and how sacred imagination can stretch our understanding of what it means to live faithfully and love extravagantly.

Catch previous episodes at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Get tickets to Big Fish at st.lukes.org/bigfish.

The Power of Storytelling

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 08:39:21 -0400

In this special episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jenn sits down with members of the cast and creative team behind St. Luke’s upcoming theater production of Big Fish to explore the spiritual power of storytelling. Through honest conversation, Kelly Morris Rowan, Dustin Russell, and Steve MacKinnon reflect on the role of theater as a modern-day parable—sharing stories that heal, challenge, and invite us to experience God’s love in new ways. This episode kicks off a three-part series inspired by the themes of Big Fish on stage at St. Luke’s. Get your tickets at st.lukes.org/bigfish.

7.14.2025 - Be Fruitful: Gentleness & Self-Control

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 08:23:52 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Liz, Pastor Jenn, Chris Stubblefield, and Diana Mendez wrap up the “Be Fruitful” series with a thoughtful conversation on gentleness and self-control. They explore how these final fruit of the Spirit aren't just personal virtues but visible signs of a Spirit-led life—shaped by grace, humility, and trust in God. With real-life stories and honest reflection, the group discusses how self-control and gentleness grow from love and are nurtured through the Spirit’s work in us, not by striving but through surrender.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Need a new small group? Visit st.lukes.org/adults.

7.7.2025 - Be Fruitful: Faithfulness

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 07:59:09 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, host Liz Vasquez, Lead Pastor Jenn Stiles Williams, and guests Barbara Barber and Will Hodges explore the fruit of faithfulness as part of the Be Fruitful series on the fruit of the Spirit. Through Scripture, personal stories, and heartfelt reflections, they discuss how faithfulness is more than belief—it’s a consistent, trustworthy presence rooted in God’s reliability. From family influences to small group support, the conversation reveals how the Spirit cultivates faithfulness in everyday acts of kindness, perseverance, and community.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Need a new small group? Visit st.lukes.org/adults.

6.30.2025 - Be Fruitful: Kindness & Goodness

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 07:46:40 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, we continue our Be Fruitful series by exploring the fruit of the Spirit through the lens of kindness and goodness—not as superficial niceness, but as authentic, Spirit-led qualities that flow from love and transform how we live and relate to others. Liz, Pastor Jenn, Brittany, and Sanyie reflect on how true kindness and goodness are rooted in God’s love and grace, and shape not only how we act outwardly but also how we cultivate inner goodness and integrity. They share personal insights, scriptural connections, and invite us to notice and celebrate real fruit-bearing in our lives and community.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

6.23.2025 - Be Fruitful: Patience

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 08:13:56 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we’re talking about patience—the kind that comes from the Holy Spirit, not just biting your tongue! Liz and Pastor Jenn are joined by special guests Brenda Cheves and John Stiles Williams as they share real stories from classrooms, parenting, and life about what it means to practice “cheerful, hopeful endurance.” It’s honest, funny, and full of wisdom you won’t want to miss.

This episode is part 3 of the Be Fruitful series. Catch previous episodes and find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

6.16.2025 - Be Fruitful: Peace

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 00:29:26 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Liz and Pastor Jenn are joined by two more St. Lukers: Brittany Vega and Josh Stanley, and together they explore how peace—often misunderstood as the absence of conflict—is actually found in surrender, perspective, and trust in God's presence. Drawing from Galatians 5 and reflections on nature, rowing, and spiritual practices, we talk about the kind of peace that comes from stepping back and seeing life through God's eyes. Through worship, silence, and the rhythms of ordinary time, we learn how to make space for the Spirit to cultivate peace in us.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

6.9.2025 - Be Fruitful: Love & Joy

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 07:40:59 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we begin our Be Fruitful series by exploring the first two expressions of the fruit of the Spirit: love and joy. St. Luke’s staff member Liz Vasquez and Pastor Jenn host a thoughtful conversation with special guests Alice Williams and Dennis Barber about how these expressions grow within us as part of a Spirit-shaped life—not as a checklist, but as a reflection of God’s presence. Together, they reflect on how love and joy can be cultivated like a garden in our hearts, becoming visible through our everyday actions and relationships.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Looking for ways to discuss love & joy with your family or with kids? Find resources at st.lukes.org/podcast.

6.2.2025 - Pentecost is Here!

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this special Pentecost episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, St. Luke’s staff member Liz Vasquez hosts a lively and insightful conversation with Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa about the significance of Pentecost—the day the Church was born through the movement of the Holy Spirit. The group explores the original Pentecost in Acts 2, and reflects on how Pentecost invites today’s church to break down walls, embrace diversity, care for community needs, and live Spirit-led lives every day—not just on holy days.

Find questions for reflection and group discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

5.26.2025 - (Re)flect

Mon, 26 May 2025 07:33:49 -0400

In this final episode of our Eastertide series, Pastor Jad explores Ephesians 5:6–14 and what it means to reflect the light of Christ in our daily lives. From ancient context to personal transformation, this reflection invites us to discern what is pleasing to God, live as children of light, and embody the love, truth, and sacrifice of Jesus in a world longing for healing and hope.

Find questions for reflection and group discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

5.19.2025 - (Re)create

Mon, 19 May 2025 08:20:14 -0400

In this week’s episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad explores what it means to "Be Alive" as a resurrection people by reflecting on Proverbs 8 and the personified voice of Woman Wisdom. We delve into the poetic, joyful, and creative nature of God’s creation, where wisdom is not just instruction but invitation—calling us to delight, play, and recreate. Discover how resurrection life is not only about belief but about living creatively and joyfully every day.

Find questions for discussion and personal reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

5.12.2025 - (Re)new

Mon, 12 May 2025 08:31:19 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad Denmark explores what it means to be truly renewed in the season of Eastertide. Rooted in Ephesians 4, this episode invites listeners to shed old patterns and embrace a new life shaped by compassion, kindness, and the Spirit of Christ. Discover how resurrection becomes more than a moment—it becomes your everyday way of being.

Find questions for reflection and discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

5.5.2025 - (Re)fresh

Mon, 05 May 2025 07:49:06 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad Denmark explores what it means to live as a resurrection people by focusing on John 4:13–15, the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well. Emphasizing the contrast between static traditions and the dynamic, life-giving “living water” Jesus offers, the message highlights Jesus’ radical breaking of social and religious barriers by engaging a Samaritan woman—a marginalized figure in her time. The woman’s gradual openness to Jesus, despite her initial misunderstanding, reflects a journey from exclusion toward transformation. Pastor Jad invites listeners to reflect on how Jesus calls us to be refreshed not only physically, but spiritually and socially, challenging old assumptions with a gospel that reaches everyone. Ultimately, the episode underscores how resurrection life means living with openness to new realities shaped by grace, compassion, and inclusion.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

4.28.2025 - (Re)vive

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad continues the Eastertide series, Resurrection to Be Alive, exploring what it means to live as a resurrection people every day. Focusing on 2 Corinthians 5:13–19, he unpacks Paul's message about being a new creation in Christ, shaped not by human standards but by divine love and transformation. Pastor Jad also offers background on the letter's history and how it reflects Paul's deeply personal call to ministry amid conflict. Listeners are invited to reflect on how Christ’s resurrection revives and reshapes our lives and relationships today. Click here for reflection and discussion questions!

4.21.2025 - (Re)joice

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 07:22:30 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Jad reflects on what it means to "Be Alive" during Eastertide, drawing from Philippians 4:4–9. He highlights Paul’s deep love for the Philippian church and the important role of women in its leadership. The message centers on rejoicing and seeking peace—not as passive emotions, but as active choices rooted in God’s nearness. Pastor Jad encourages listeners to notice goodness both within and beyond the church, reminding us that God’s truth can be found in many places. Ultimately, it’s a call to live with intention, gentleness, and trust in the steady presence of God’s peace.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

4.14.2024 - The Holy Week Episode

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 08:27:36 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we reflect on the deep vulnerability of Jesus in the garden and the quiet strength that carries him through betrayal, denial, and suffering. From angelic presence in Gethsemane to the harrowing journey through Good Friday, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore the paradox of power through surrender, the challenge of love in the face of violence, and the haunting silence of Holy Saturday. With a little help from Harry Potter, memories from classes, and a deep dive into John’s Gospel, we wrestle with truth, resilience, and the cost of real leadership.

Click here to view a full schedule of Holy Week services.

Find discussion questions here.

4.7.2025 - Hold Paradox in the Wilderness

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 07:13:15 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn and Jad reflect on Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem and his final teachings in John’s Gospel. Together, they explore how faith invites us to hold sorrow and joy, suffering and peace, death and new life—all at once.

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent

Join us for Holy Week! View worship schedules at st.lukes.org/lent.

3.31.2025 - Be Rooted in the Wilderness

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa discuss John 15:1-17, where Jesus calls us to remain in Him, like branches connected to the vine. True discipleship isn’t just about doing—it’s about abiding, growing, and bearing fruit. Listen now and stay rooted in faith!

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent

Lent is better together! Join a small group and journey together during the season. Find a full list at st.lukes.org/adults.

3.24.2025 - Be Resilient in the Wilderness

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa dive into John 14 and what it means to be resilient in faith. As we continue our Lenten journey, we’re reminded to stay centered in Christ, even in uncertain times.

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent

Lent is better together! Join a small group and journey together during the season. Find a full list at st.lukes.org/adults.

3.17.2025 - Be Servants in the Wilderness

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In times of chaos, Jesus calls us to serve. In this week's episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore John 13:1-17, where Jesus washes his disciples' feet, showing that true leadership is rooted in humility and love. Serving others isn’t just an action—it’s a way to stay grounded in faith. Listen now and reflect on how you can embody Christ’s love through service!

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent

Lent is better together! Join a small group and journey together during the season. Find a full list at st.lukes.org/adults.

3.10.2025 - Be Obedient in the Wilderness

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore obedience through Mary’s anointing of Jesus’ feet as seen in John 12:1-11. Her act of costly devotion foreshadows Jesus’ death and invites us to see worship as an act of faith, even in uncertainty. Tune in for insights on discipleship, humility, and the power of worship in community!

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent.

Lent is better together! Join a small group and journey together during the season. Find a full list at st.lukes.org/adults.

3.6.3035 - Be Centered in the Wilderness

Thu, 06 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this bonus episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore John 11:45-54. After Lazarus’ resurrection, fear drives religious leaders to plot against Jesus. How does fear shape our response to change? And how can we find stability in faith, even in uncertainty? Tune in as we reflect on Jesus’ retreat—not as avoidance, but as preparation for what’s ahead.

Download a free copy of our Lenten Guide at st.lukes.org/lent

Lent is better together! Join a small group and journey together during the season. Find a full list at st.lukes.org/adults.

3.3.2025 - Getting Ready for BeWilderment

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jen and Melissa introduce our Lenten series, "Bewildered." Lent is a season of reflection, trust, and transformation—where faith isn’t about having all the answers but learning to navigate the wilderness with God. Through the story of Lazarus (John 11), we’ll explore how disorientation can lead to deeper faith. Tune in as we embrace the journey together!

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Join a new group during Lent! Visit st.lukes.org/lent for a full list.

Belong: Witness

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, guest speaker Brett Opalinski, a United Methodist pastor and professor, reflects on the commitment of being a witness for Christ. He explains that discipleship goes beyond belief—it's about embodying Jesus' love and teachings in everyday life. Brett challenges listeners to consider how their lives can reflect God's love and grace, showing that being a witness is not just about words but actions.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Belong: Service

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Brett Opalinski, Assistant Dean of Methodist Studies at Candler School of Theology, explores the promise of service as part of our Belong series. Discover how service, rooted in Wesleyan tradition and modeled by Jesus, calls us to humbly serve others, build relationships, and reflect God’s love through acts of compassion and justice. Listen now and be inspired to take your next step in serving with love and purpose!

Find questions for reflection and discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Belong: Gifts

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:01:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, special guest Brett Opalinski dives into the powerful promise of generosity within the United Methodist Church. Using compelling stories, Brett invites us to reflect on the true meaning of generosity. It's not just about money, but about offering our time, love, and resources in response to God's abundant grace. If you're looking to deepen your discipleship and discover the joy in living a generous life, this episode is for you!

Find questions for discussion and deeper reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Belong: Presence

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 18:06:38 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, the Rev. Dr. Brett Opalinski from the Candler School of Theology leads us in reflecting on presence—what it means to truly show up for God, our community, and one another. Through thought-provoking insights, he highlights the power of presence as a means of grace, a way to encounter God, and a practice that forms and transforms us over time.

Find questions for discussion and deeper reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Belong: Prayers

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:23:10 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we kick off our new series called Belong, where we’ll explore the vows United Methodists take to support the church with prayers, presence, gifts, service, and witness. This week, we’re joined by Brett Opalinski, United Methodist Pastor and Assistant Dean of Methodist Studies at the Candler School of Theology, for a discussion on prayers. Drawing on examples from early Christianity and personal experiences, he illustrates how prayer can ground our lives and transform our relationship with God. He’ll guide us through some practical suggestions and show us how prayer can be a transformative practice that connects individuals to God and strengthens the church community.

Find questions for discussion and deeper reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Be: Bold

Sun, 19 Jan 2025 19:56:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, pastors Jenn & Melissa explore the theme of "Be Bold" as part of the ongoing "Be" series. They’ll discuss how boldness requires preparation and readiness, drawing inspiration from Jesus' ministry. The key scripture is from Luke 4:14-21, where Jesus, in the synagogue, proclaims his mission by reading from Isaiah. This mission includes bringing good news to the poor, freedom to the oppressed, and equity for all—marking the start of his ministry with a bold and transformative declaration.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Be: Ready

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:01:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn and Melissa dive into the story of the wedding in Cana as told in John 2:1-11, where Jesus performs his first miracle. From turning water into wine to celebrating abundance, this episode explores powerful lessons about calling, readiness, and how God transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Be: Loved

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 05:15:00 -0500

What does it mean to be loved? In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa guide us through the well known passage of Jesus’ baptism in Luke 3 and talk about how it ties to Isaiah 43.

Find questions for reflection and discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Looking for a small group to share your thoughts? Visit st.lukes.org/adults.

Be Alive in 2025!

Thu, 02 Jan 2025 00:01:00 -0500

Start your year with "Your Week with St. Luke's" as we dive into what it means to be guided by God's light and love. In this week's episode, St. Luke's Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa explore the story of the Magi, their journey of transformation, and how being rooted in Christ reshapes our lives. Join us as we reflect on the light that leads us, the call to be fully present as God's children, and the power of Epiphany to awaken new paths in the new year.

The Christmas Episode

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 09:05:05 -0500

Check out this special episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, where Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa talk about some of their favorite Christmas Things.

Fear Not: The Shepherds

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa lead us into the 4th week of advent as we turn to the Shepherds, who were the first to hear the good news of Jesus’ birth. This story serves as a reminder that God lifts up the humble and includes the excluded. Their joyful response to the angelic message inspires us to share the Gospel with authenticity, love, and joy because, like them, we too are called to be messengers of hope and transformation.

Find questions for reflection and discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

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Fear Not: Joseph

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa dive into the third week of Advent turning to Matthew 1:18-25 to look at the story through the eyes of Joseph and his choice to lead with love over fear.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Fear Not: Mary

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa dive into Mary’s story in Luke 1 and explore how her encounter with the angel Gabriel shows us the power of faith, trust, and saying "yes" to God—even when the path is uncertain.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Bonus Episode: Thanksgiving 2024!

Thu, 28 Nov 2024 04:15:00 -0500

In this special Thanksgiving episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa reflect on gratitude as a transformative spiritual practice. They share stories of how the St. Luke's community is living out their faith through service, advocacy, and discipleship. Tune in for inspiration and a reminder to give thanks this season!

Fear Not: Zechariah

Mon, 25 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa kick off Advent with the theme "Fear Not," exploring the angelic messages that changed lives. This week, we reflect on Zechariah's story—how God's unexpected calling disrupted his plans, rekindling hope when all seemed lost. No matter your stage in life, there's no expiration date on God's purpose for you. What new calling might God be birthing in you?

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Purpose-full Gratitude

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Melissa explores the theme of “purposeful gratitude” through Luke 17:11-19. Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one—a Samaritan—returns to give thanks. His gratitude becomes an act of faith, showing us how thanksgiving transforms and deepens our connection with God. This Thanksgiving, let’s embrace gratitude as a simple, powerful spiritual practice.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Purpose-full Generosity

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0500

How are we using our resources to make room for all? In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastor Melissa dives into Luke 14 to explore how Jesus' meals teach us about humility, generosity, and radical inclusivity. Jesus calls us to take the lowest seat, embrace those who can’t repay us, and extend our tables to everyone, especially the overlooked.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Purpose-full Joy

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 05:15:00 -0500

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, we continue our "Purpose-full" series, as St. Luke’s Pastor Melissa unpacks Jesus' parables of the lost sheep and lost coin in Luke 15, revealing God's joyful pursuit of all who are lost—whether they know it or not. She challenges us to embrace purposeful joy, celebrating God's grace for everyone, even those we might least expect.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Purpose-full living

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke's, St. Luke’s Pastor Melissa kicks off a series on living "Purpose-full” lives, reflecting on Luke 12:22-34. She explores Jesus’ teachings on overcoming worry, trusting in God’s provision, and using our resources to serve others. Instead of hoarding, we're called to be generous, shifting from fear to faith and revealing God’s kingdom through purposeful actions.

Find questions for reflection and discussion at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Beyond the Box (part 4): We the Purpose-full

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 05:25:00 -0400

This episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s reflects on wisdom from the book of Proverbs and explores themes of justice, community, and faith-driven decision-making. The episode covers passages from Proverbs 27 and 31, emphasizing the importance of relationships, justice for the marginalized, and communal responsibility. It highlights how faith informs one's actions, including voting, without conflating religious identity with political choices. Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa encourage "both/and" thinking, acknowledging multiple perspectives and experiences as valid, rather than an either/or binary mindset, and stress the need for compassion, justice, and mutual respect in a diverse community.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast

Download a copy of our free resource guide to go along with this series at st.lukes.org/adults

Beyond the Box (part 3): Focus Forward

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa discuss the themes of focus, self-awareness, and accountability, drawing lessons from Proverbs 4 & 26. In this insightful conversation, the pastors delve into the importance of guarding your heart against distractions and negativity, emphasizing how our focus can easily be derailed by "sideshows" in life. They explore the power of humility, self-awareness, and personal growth, offering practical strategies like using "I statements" to improve communication and owning your actions. The discussion also highlights the balance between accountability and grace within relationships and community, urging listeners to stay focused on their purpose while being open to correction and learning from others.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast

Download a copy of our free resource guide to go along with this series at st.lukes.org/adults

Beyond the Box (part 2): Do No Harm

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 07:15:39 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa look at Wesley’s principle of “Do no harm,” urging us to be mindful of the impact of our words which can either heal or hurt. Drawing on the book of Proverbs, they’ll emphasize the importance of handling conflict with grace, patience, and love, promoting reconciliation rather than harm.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast

Download a copy of our free resource guide to go along with this series at st.lukes.org/adults

Beyond the Box - part 1: Seek Wisdom

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode of Your Week with St. Luke’s, Pastors Jenn, Jad, and Melissa discuss their new sermon series, "Beyond the Box," which explores wisdom literature from the Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs. They emphasize the importance of seeking wisdom as a way to live purposefully and intentionally in everyday life, especially in the context of navigating challenging societal moments, like during times of tension and decision-making.

They’ll also introduce the practice of "trying-on," a communication guideline encouraging openness to new perspectives, much like trying on new clothes. What would it look like if you engaged in this approach with humility, both in personal relationships and in broader societal contexts?

Find questions for discussion and reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast

Download a copy of our free resource guide to go along with this series at st.lukes.org/adults

Resolute in Purpose (part 4)

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 10:35:29 -0400

In this final episode of our series on Daniel, Candler’s Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio challenges us as he walks us through chapters 5 & 6 of this book.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Resolute in Purpose - part 3

Mon, 16 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this episode, hear from Candler’s Dr. Ryan Bonfiglio as he takes us through the dreams and interpretations of the 2nd & 4th chapters of the Book of Daniel.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Resolute in Purpose - part 2

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In this second episode of our series on the Book of Daniel, Candler’s Dr. Ryan Bonfigllio walks us through the historical context, key themes, and theological takeaways of the 1st chapter, where we meet Daniel and his friends.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Resolute in Purpose (part 1)

Mon, 02 Sep 2024 13:07:42 -0400

What do we value? In this first episode of our new series on the Book of Daniel, Candler’s Dr. Ryan Bonfigllio walks us through the historical context, key themes, and theological takeaways of the 3rd chapter, where we meet Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Rooted in Purpose: Awaken Disciples to Reveal the Kingdom

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 07:46:24 -0400

In this last episode of the series, St. Luke's Pastor Jad Denmark, Minister of Congregational Life, walks us through Ephesians 5:16-21 and 6:10-20.

Find questions for discussion and reflection at www.st.lukes.org/podcast.

Rooted in Purpose: Reveals light through the Church

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 06:46:23 -0400

In this next lecture of our series, Pastor Jad, St. Luke’s Minister of Congregational Life, walks us through Ephesians 4:1-7, 25-5:2, 6-13.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Connect with a small group for discussion! Find groups at st.lukes.org/adults.

Rooted in Purpose: Disciples do good work

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 09:07:00 -0400

In this lecture, Pastor Jad, St. Luke’s Minister of Congregational Life, walks us through Ephesians 2:1-10.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Connect with a small group for discussion! Find groups at st.lukes.org/adults.

Rooted in Purpose: Awaken to God’s gift of love

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 09:33:53 -0400

In this lecture, Pastor Jad, St. Luke’s Minister of Congregational Life, kicks off a new series on the book of Ephesians.

Find questions for discussion & reflection at st.lukes.org/podcast.

Connect with a small group for discussion! Find groups at st.lukes.org/adults.

The Sound of Music and The Central Florida Pledge!

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 11:20:17 -0400

Learn about the Central Florida Pledge in this special podcast conversation between St. Luke’s Lead Pastor Jenn Stiles Williams, Dr. Joel Hunter, and Dr. Lua Hancock. Hear about how the pledge was started and how it’s related to Theatre at St. Luke’s summer production of The Sound of Music.

For tickets to The Sound of Music, visit https://www.st.lukes.org/soundofmusic

Learn more about the pledge at: https://www.centralfloridapledge.com/

The Land of Israel in Biblical Perspective (Part 3)

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 04:01:00 -0400

The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is tangled up in questions about what the Bible has to say about the people of Israel and the land of Israel. This three-week series, taught by Candler OT professor Ryan Bonfiglio, offers biblical perspectives on this complex topic.

What does the Old Testament law have to say about how Israel is to treat foreigners who live with them in the land of Israel? Explore this topic in this final episode.

Got more questions after listening? Ryan Bonfiglio will be back with answers to your questions about the land of Israel! Email your follow-up questions to yourweek@st.lukes.org.

For more information about adult classes and studies at St. Luke's, visit st.lukes.org/adults.

The Land of Israel in Biblical Perspective (part 2)

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:15:00 -0400

In this episode, learn about the nature of God’s promise of this land to the people of Israel. Why is this promise given? Is the promise unconditional or contingent? How essential is access to the land to ancient Israel’s experience of God?

On July 29, a special podcast will be released where Ryan Bonfiglio will answer your questions about the land of Israel! Email your follow-up questions to yourweek@st.lukes.org.

For more information about adult classes and studies at St. Luke's, visit st.lukes.org/adults.

The Land of Israel in Biblical Perspective (part 1)

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 00:01:00 -0400

In part 1 of this special series, hear about the history of the land of Israel. What should we call it? Who has occupied it over the years and why has it so often been the subject of conflict?

On July 29, a special podcast will be released where Ryan Bonfiglio will answer your questions about the land of Israel! Email your follow-up questions to yourweek@st.lukes.org.

For more information about adult classes and studies at St. Luke's, visit st.lukes.org/adults.