In this episode of Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, Reverend Doctor Kent Lundy welcomes Reverend Chris Stephens from the Nappanee United Methodist Church. With only five months into his journey at Nappanee UMC, Chris shares his experiences, joys, challenges, and aspirations as a new pastor.

A notable theme of the episode centers around the idea of new beginnings. Chris, still within his "honeymoon period" at Nappanee, candidly discusses the learning curve he's navigating, from getting acquainted with the congregation to, quite humorously, finding all the light switches in the church. This season of adaptability underscores the importance of resilience and openness in ministry.

Takeaway #1: Finding Joy in Family and Ministry

Throughout the discussion, Chris emphasizes the joy his children bring to his life. With three kids aged 11, 4, and 2, Chris often finds himself balancing full-time ministry with lively family dynamics. Despite the busyness, he finds profound joy in nurturing the next generation. This segment highlights the essential balance between personal life and vocational ministry, emphasizing that joy can be found in the simplest, most personal moments.

Takeaway #2: Answering the Call to Serve

Chris recounts his early sense of calling to vocational ministry, which he initially resisted by pursuing a career in engineering. However, even during his time in engineering school, the call to ministry resurfaced in a profound way, leading him back to his true vocation. This journey reflects a powerful message: one's calling can be persistent and transformative, and sometimes, aligning with it might require detours and epiphanies.

Takeaway #3: The Importance of Support and Community

Drawing a vivid comparison with a basketball game, Kent asks Chris about his "home court advantage" in ministry. Chris credits his family and a "great cloud of witnesses," including former pastors and Sunday school teachers, as his primary cheerleaders. This underscores the vital role of communal support in sustaining a thriving ministry. Chris's legacy aspiration of instilling "joy, community, and love" within his congregation further reinforces this point.

Takeaway #4: Embracing Nature for Spiritual Rejuvenation

Chris finds solace and rejuvenation in nature, particularly in national parks like Teddy Roosevelt National Park. His love for nature is deeply tied to his spiritual renewal, showcasing that sometimes, the best way to recharge is by stepping away from daily stressors and immersing oneself in the tranquility of creation.

Takeaway #5: Lessons Learned: The Power of Saying No

One of the most profound lessons Chris shares is the importance of setting boundaries in ministry. He discusses the necessity of saying "no" to some things to say "yes" to what truly matters. This lesson, linked to preventing burnout and ensuring sustainable ministry, is a crucial takeaway for clergy and laypeople alike.

Join us in this heartfelt and insightful episode as Reverend Chris Stevens shares his journey and wisdom, offering a blend of humor, sincerity, and inspiration. Tune in to Pulpit Perspectives Podcast to hear more about how Chris is shaping his legacy at Nappanee United Methodist Church with joy, community, and love.

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Join us next time for another episode filled with encouragement and community connection.

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