Episode 8: God Called Me Here
In this episode, host Matt interviews Tom Sander, a longtime music minister who helped facilitate the merger between Ballast Point Baptist Church and Davis Islands Baptist Church (an extension of Idlewild Baptist) in Tampa, Florida in the early 2000s. Tom shares the story of how Ballast Point, despite having a healthy congregation, decided a merger was needed for revitalization and greater community impact rather than waiting until desperation set in.
Episode 7: Bigger than a Brand - Paper Mill Road Baptist Church & Sojourn Church
Welcome back to another insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast! Matt sits down with Pastor Ernie Wagoner from Sojourn Church in Marietta, GA. Pastor Ernie shares the story of planting Sojourn Church and is incredibly vulnerable about their early struggles. We learn the story of their unique merger with Paper Mill Road Baptist Church, a true merger of two congregations - one struggling to find their future, the other in need of a new home. Throughout the conversation, we hear the story that God wrote for these two churches, a story bigger than one pastor, bigger than one church, bigger than their brand, and bigger than our ideas of success.
Episode 5: The Tie That Binds - Rehoboth Presbyterian Church
In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, listeners are taken on a poignant journey through the life of Rehoboth Presbyterian Church, as recounted by Rev. AJ Mealor. Having grown up in the close-knit community and later being ordained there, Rev. Mealor shares the deeply personal story of his lifelong connection with Rehoboth.
Episode 4: I must decrease, Part 2
Join us in this enlightening episode of The Last Service Podcast as Matt sits down with Pastor Joe McClellan of The Point Church, based in Pensacola, FL. In this exclusive interview, we dive into the extraordinary tale of how First Baptist Church in Elberta, AL, generously passed on their building to The Point Church. Get ready to uncover the untold story of collaboration, faith, and community impact.
Episode 3: I must decrease Part 1
In this episode of The Last Service Podcast, your host Matt delves into an inspiring conversation with Pastor Mike Woods, the final pastor of First Baptist Church, Elberta, Alabama. Join us as Pastor Mike unravels the remarkable story of how his congregation made a profound decision to donate their cherished building to another congregation. Discover the heartwarming journey of collaboration, unity, and shared mission as Pastor Mike worked hand-in-hand with the pastors of The Point Church.
Episode 2: People of The Way with Claire Bamberg
In this episode, Claire Bamberg shares wisdom learned from helping many congregations find a path forward. We learn about her process to guide churches in letting go of the past and embracing a new beginning. She is the founder of Potentials Customized Coaching and Consulting.
Episode 1: Failing God - Stephen Gray author of Legacy Churches
In this insightful episode of The Last Service Podcast, Matt sits down with Pastor Stephen Gray, the esteemed author of "Legacy Churches." Join us as we delve into the pages of Pastor Gray's book and explore his profound insights on the challenges and triumphs of legacy churches.