Join Jessica Scott for a conversation with Dr. Ashley Boggan, who serves with the General Commission on Archives and History. As a double pastor's kid who chose lay service instead of ordination, Ashley shares how Methodist history isn't just about the past—it's the key to understanding our identity and empowering laity for the future. From Susanna Wesley to today's Mad Mamas group, discover how lay people have always been the heart of the Methodist movement and how you can live out your calling through understanding our Wesleyan heritage.

For more resources on Methodist history and identity, visit gcah.org and explore the free courses at UM History Hub, including "Radicle Methodism." Check out the General Commission on Archives and History podcast at gcah.org/podcast.

The Laity Space Podcast is presented by Florida Conference Board of Laity and produced by the team at Wesley's Revival, a ministry of Studio Wesley. For more information, go to laityspace.org.

Show Notes:

[00:26] Welcome and introduction to Dr. Ashley Boggan

[03:21] Growing up as a double pastor's kid and when faith became her own

[09:44] Choosing lay service over ordination and discovering a call through history

[13:25] What the General Commission on Archives and History does and why it matters

[18:53] The vital role of laity in Methodist history, from Susanna Wesley to circuit riders

[29:00] How remembering our history shapes the church's future and relieves clergy burnout

[38:29] Getting started: Resources for lay people including Radical Methodism and UM History Hub

[47:18] Ashley's message to lay people across the UMC: "Do it because I'm United Methodist"