In this episode, hosts Peter, Josh, and Malissa discuss their conversation with theologian Dr. Jerry Sittser. They explore how monasteries historically served their communities rather than existing in isolation, examine the relationship between church and state, and discuss how the church's true power comes from the Holy Spirit rather than political influence. The hosts reflect on what renewal looks like today—emphasizing local community engagement over large-scale metrics—and highlight the importance of mentoring and empowering others. They conclude by connecting these themes to stewarding our experiences for others' benefit, much like the New Testament letters compiled wisdom to help believers flourish.

In this episode, hosts Peter and Malissa welcome distinguished theologian, scholar, and author Dr. Jerry Sittser to explore Christianity's resilience through history's darkest moments. Dr. Sittser shares how the Benedictine monastic movement emerged during societal collapse and natural disasters in the 6th century, quietly preserving knowledge and faith for future generations. Through historical examples and personal stories, he discusses how Christians can maintain faithful presence while stewarding power responsibly in today's divided world. Drawing from his books, including "Resilient Faith," Dr. Sittser offers hope and practical wisdom for navigating current cultural challenges by learning from the church's past.

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In this episode of Old Paths, New Steps, hosts Josh, Pete, and Melissa explore the concept of sacred spaces as safe places. They journey from the Garden of Eden through biblical history to modern churches, examining what makes a space truly sacred. The conversation delves into how vulnerability, accountability, and cherishing others are essential elements for creating healing environments where people can authentically encounter God. Through personal stories and theological insights, they discuss how the most beautiful aspect of any sacred space is the people within it. Discover how expanding our tables and creating genuine community reflects God's original design for Eden and points toward the ultimate feast in the new creation. Whether you've experienced church as a sanctuary or a source of pain, this episode offers hope for creating spaces where true healing can flourish.

In this thoughtful follow-up conversation, hosts Peter Voorhees, Malissa Bertella, and Josh Lott unpack their interview with Dr. Gregory Coles, reflecting on the beauty of embracing our "misfittedness" within authentic Christian community. The hosts share personal stories of awkwardness and not fitting neatly into expected boxes, while celebrating how diverse communities enrich our lives when united by shared mission. The conversation highlights how the gospel transcends cultural differences and political divides, creating space for genuine connection across unexpected relationships. Drawing on Greg's experiences as a third-culture kid and his insights on belonging, the hosts explore how Christ calls us to find community not necessarily among those who are just like us, but among those with whom we share a deeper purpose.

In this episode of Old Paths, New Steps, host Peter Voorhees welcomes author and speaker Dr. Gregory Coles. They explore the power of resilience through community, discussing how genuine connections help us navigate life's challenges. Greg shares insights from his personal journey as a celibate gay Christian, reflecting on unexpected friendships and the importance of curiosity rather than judgment when encountering differences. This thought-provoking conversation examines how true community forms around shared mission rather than sameness, and how embracing our own 'weirdness' opens doors to deeper understanding of others. Join them for a heartfelt discussion on finding joy amidst difficulty and building meaningful connections across differences.

In this follow-up episode, hosts Peter Voorhees, Malissa Bertella, and Josh Lott discuss key insights from their conversation with Andrea Corbridge about implementing trauma-informed care in children's ministry. They explore the value of focusing on resilience over trauma, the importance of presence and connection before content, and how creating safe spaces allows people to truly be seen and heard. The team shares personal stories of how Andrea's practical wisdom has impacted their own ministry approaches, including powerful reflections on Job's "words for the wind" and the patience required when walking alongside those in pain. This episode offers valuable, actionable wisdom for anyone seeking to create healing environments where people of all ages can flourish.

In this illuminating conversation, host Peter Voorhees and co-host Malissa Bertella welcome Andrea Corbridge to explore how trauma-informed care has transformed children's ministry at City Chapel of Bremerton. Andrea shares powerful stories of moving from behavior-focused approaches to relationship-centered care that honors each child's dignity, including the paradigm-shifting moment when a volunteer crawled under a desk to meet a struggling child where they were. Through practical examples and heartfelt insights, Andrea illustrates how understanding trauma changes everything—from volunteer recruitment to classroom management to the fundamental goals of ministry itself—and offers wisdom on creating safe spaces where healing can happen, the importance of allowing people to lament without correction, and why building resilience through simple, loving interactions might be the most powerful ministry we can offer.

In this episode of Old Paths, New Steps, hosts Peter, Josh, and Malissa reflect on their enlightening conversation with Dr. Lu Wing about the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, epigenetics, and human connection. They reflect how genuine laughter creates powerful neural bonds (what Dr. Wing calls "limbic lock") and share personal stories of deep connections formed through shared joy and grief. The conversation expands into the importance of inter-generational community, the transformative power of relationships over mere information, and how modern science beautifully affirms ancient wisdom about human flourishing. Join us as we discover how both science and theology point to the same truth: we are wired for connection, and healing happens in community.