A Little Faith
By WCF Podcasts
A Little FaithJun 12, 2020
Jason Hensley on His New Book ‘One Family’
In this episode, Mike chats with Jason Hensley about his book 'One Family' and the importance of recognizing the Jewish roots of Christianity. They begin by discussing the historical setting of first-century Judaism, discussing the Pharisees, Sadducees, and the Essenes. Jason underscores the importance of viewing Jesus within his Jewish context, highlighting how his teachings align with Pharisaic teachings. He describes Jesus as a “reformer working on the inside”.
Mike and Jason examine the impact of the temple's destruction in 70 CE on the Jewish religious leadership and Christian followers. Finally, Jason shares his hope that readers will recognize the deep connections between biblical Christianity and Judaism, urging them to stand against anti-Semitism.
Purchase book here:
Beth Lansing on RVA Light
In this episode, Levi chats with Beth about her experience volunteering at RVA Light, a community resource center in downtown Richmond, Virginia. Founded five years ago with a mission "To connect our neighbors with one another, community resources and with Jesus", Beth shares stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by relationships formed at RVA Light. Next she describes a typical day at the resource center. Some people come to enjoy a coffee and socialize, others find a quiet place to rest, use the phone or computer for job and housing searches. There is a Youth Program being piloted which includes life skills mentorship, relationship building and Drum Corp participation.
Beth explains how the daily Bible study time is a catalyst leading to reflections on one's spiritual journey and relationship with God. Beth and Levi celebrate RVA Light being a consistent and reliable presence where people regain a sense of community, find hope and envision a more positive future. Finally Beth mentions the volunteer opportunities at RVA Light, ongoing funding needs and encourages listeners to come and visit RVA Light.
More Info:
Johnny David, White Fields worker in Cambodia
In this episode Levi chats with Johnny David about his experience living in Cambodia and his decision to be a White Field worker. Johnny describes the ease of sharing the Gospel message in Cambodia. He shares some of his adventures visiting brothers, sisters and contacts around the country. They discuss the multilingual ecclesia at the Sihanoukville Bible Education Center and student life in the WCF supported dormitory in Phnom Penh. Johnny talks about his family background and growing up in Talakadu, India. Finally, Johnny reflects on how one grows faith when experiencing challenges in a new environment.
John 4:35 - "Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest."
Duncan Kenzie on the Israel-Hamas Conflict
In this episode Levi and Duncan discuss the war that broke out on 7 October 2023 between Israeli forces and the Hamas-led Palestinian militant groups. Duncan explains what geopolitics is, and how it informs the current situation. He reviews the 1916 Sykes-Picot Agreement, the Balfour Declaration, the formation of the state of Israel and the ensuing war with five Arab countries. He also mentions Iran's role in supporting Hamas. Next they consider the desperate plight of the Palestinians confined to the West Bank and Gaza in addition to the atrocities inflicted on the Israelis. Duncan and Levi review the tragic losses of life on both sides. Levi shares recent surveys in the American media regarding support for Israel and they discuss the generational divides in public opinion. Next, Duncan and Levi turn to the topic of Bible prophecy about the establishment of the Kingdom. The episode ends with their reflections on Jesus' message in Luke 13:34-35.
Shawn and Cathie Moynihan on Giving Back Bountifully
In this episode, Shawn and Cathie Moynihan talk with Michael about their involvement with WCF’s Faith Launch program and the upcoming conference at Camp Hebron, Halifax, PA. They begin by reflecting on the image of abundance in Luke 6:38 as a source of inspiration for their sessions. Shawn describes the conference format and the variety of learning experiences centered around supporting family, ecclesia, and community. Cathie describes the action plan attendees will be creating for themselves. Next, Michael asks about the mentorship program associated with Faith Launch. Finally, Shawn and Cathie share their enthusiasm for being able to meet with attendees in person, the value of discussion, peer support, self-reflection, and discovering one’s personal gifts to use in service to others.
Luke 6:38 “…give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”
Shawn Moynihan on his book "The Lord's Supper"
In this episode Levi and Shawn discuss what motivated Shawn to write "The Lord's Supper". They explore the challenge of finding connection and celebration in a weekly ritual. Shawn talks about the context of a first century thanksgiving meal. They consider how the Lord's supper might be practiced today in a more interactive way. Next, Levi notes the sections on the symbols of Bread and Cup, Relationships, Partaking and Practices. Shawn asks what do we "remember" when we come to the Lord's table? He also talks about our shared brokenness. The podcast concludes with Shawn reading selections from "The Lord's Supper" that encourage us to deepen our relationship with our God, Christ and each other.
Purchase Book Here:
Luke Gelineau on his Survey of Christadelphians Who No Longer Attend
In this thought provoking episode, Michael begins by asking Luke about his motivation for interviewing 20 individuals that no longer attend a Christadelphian ecclesia. Luke explains how he set up the study, the rules and criteria he used and responses he received to key questions. Michael and Luke reflect on Matt Jones' quote, "It became a lot more important to be right rather than loving...". They discuss the survey findings on social issues and roles for sisters. What does it look like to re-examine our traditions, or explore ways to be more loving towards those who hold different perspectives? Luke describes the online survey he is creating for current Christadelphians. The episode concludes with Luke expression of appreciation for the gracious attitude of the respondents to his survey.
Find a link to Luke's presentation with his survey results here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXGZ6OQ1O7g
Bette Winfree on Hosting Bible Classes at Work or School
On and off over her 51 years working in IT at the Fairfax county, Sister Bette Winfree has held bible classes with co-workers. In this episode Bette shares with Levi some of the strategies she used to navigate the challenge of discussing faith in a work setting. Ten of her co-workers have embraced the Gospel message and being baptized. Levi and Bette celebrate the domino effect of preaching. They consider other areas such as Minneapolis and San Francisco where baptisms have resulted from bible classes offered by Christadelphians to their peers at work or college. Bette describes seeing God working in people's lives as they come to an understanding of the Bible. She recognizes she is just one step along the way.
Meet the Director: Simon Dean
In this episode Simon Dean describes for Levi what he sees as unique about WCF and how that led to his involvement with the Online Bible Schools. He talks passionately about the global reach of the Foundation. Simon shares his experience of singing along to Hymns For Sunday with a brother and sister living in isolation in Croatia. Levi and Simon discuss the Make Faith Matter videos initiative, how to address our "faith deficits" and create content that inspires us towards a richer faith-driven life in Christ. Next, Simon tells Levi about growing up in Watford Ecclesia with Harry Tennant, among others. Finally, they discuss the joys and challenges of integrating 26 newly baptized Iranians in Simon's home ecclesia of Ware, England.
Greg Hoogkamp on Learning Patience
In this episode, Brother Greg Hoogkamp tells Michael about relocating his family from their home in Canada to Arkansas, USA. Greg shares the circumstances that led them to make this difficult decision back in 2018. He describes the challenges they faced for the next four and a half years navigating the immigration process and changes in employment. Michael asks Greg about the strain of living apart from his wife and children while waiting for his visa. They discuss the blessing of family support. They consider scriptural examples of those who learned patience, trusting in God and living one day at a time.
Julie Anderson on Her New Album "The Time of Singing Has Come"
In this episode Levi talks with Julie Anderson about her music album "A Time Of Singing Has Come". A compilation of six songs written between 1990 -2007. These are recordings performed by choirs including those at Manitoulin Youth Camp, Great Lakes Bible school and young people from BC and Australia. Levi asks Julie about her creative process in finding melodies to fit scripture such as "Hannah's Prayer" and " Lift Up Your Eyes".
Julie shares the excitement of collaborating with her son Grant on "A Prayer Of Moses" for Manitoulin in 2007 and the heartbreaking experience of his car accident just prior to the Friday Night concert. Levi shares his memories of being at camp and hearing the choir performing this song, knowing Grant was in a coma. Julie and Levi discuss the healing power of music in helping Grant recover. Julie describes personal circumstances that inspired her to compose daily poems to encourage her son, Ethan. She expresses gratitude to God for being able to share her love of music.
Meet the Director: John Perks
In this episode, Michael talks with John Perks, one of the WCF Directors, in charge of Youth Programs. John describes living and being involved in many different ecclesias over the years. They discuss John’s first involvement with WCF working with Faith Launch 1, early in the Pandemic. John talks about his current involvement working as a Director on the board supporting youth programs. John plugs a WCF in-person event he is very passionate about, Faith Launch 3, which will be running this coming fall. John also shares why it is important for WCF to support building the faith of young people across the world.
Jessica Miller on Rise Up and Build
In this episode, Michael and Jessica discuss the latest initiative launched by WCF, "Rise Up And Build". Jessica describes the successful roll out of the Bible Book Box pilot project. Next she outlines the neighborhood Prayer Walk being piloted by a Toronto ecclesia. Michael and Jessica discuss the benefits of the Fresh Ideas newsletter and the WCF Online Bulletin Board, a place to post events and share community resources. They discuss how working alongside one another, growing engagement through in reach and outreach efforts can reinvigorate and encourage faith. WCF is ready to support ecclesias in this process!
Psalm 119:25 " Revive me according to your word."
Jessica invites everyone to find out more at wcfoundation.org/rise-up-and-build.
Interested in joining the Rise Up And Build team? Contact Jessica at jmiller@wcfoundation.org.
Mark Cain on the Unitarian Christian Alliance
In this episode Levi talks with Mark Cain, podcast host and board member of the Unitarian Christian Alliance (UCA). They discuss the term "unitarian". Mark outlines the circumstances in 2019 that led to the formation of a cross denominational conference for Christians. Levi and Mark talk about WCF's involvement with the UCA and the excitement of meeting others who share the belief that the God of the Bible is the Father alone and Jesus is his son. Mark describes how individual Christadelphians can join the UCA online world-wide Directory and benefit by connecting with other unitarians in their local area.
Links:
UCA Podcast
What is the UCA
Jason Hensley on his book The Bible In Context
In this podcast Levi talks with Jason Hensley about his new book, The Bible In Context. Jason tells Levi about writing his PhD dissertation in July 2020 on how Judaism was portrayed in the New Testament. He was challenged to defend his approach to biblical study without having a clear methodology. Levi and Jason discuss their shared Christadelphian heritage and how they learned to read the Bible. Next Jason describes studying at an evangelical seminary. He talks about establishing a methodology to approach every text in order to get a consistent application. They review the “Cyclical Method” outlined in the book. Jason expands on the issue of historical context, and the challenge of personal bias. The podcast concludes with Jason highlighting how engaging in community discussion encourages us to be continually learning and being comfortable with some areas of uncertainty in our understanding. This is part of the growth God wants for us.
Meet the Director: Alan Ghent
In this episode, Levi talks with Alan Ghent, the secretary of WCF. Alan describes growing up in a vibrant CYC in Toronto. They discuss the changing nature of the programs he has been involved with over the 28 years of serving on the Board of Directors. He mentions the early days of the cassette library of talks, videos and cds that are now all available online. Alan notes how WCF branched out to support the Bible Education Centers in South Africa, the dormitories in Cambodia, and White Fields workers in Vietnam. Levi and Alan then consider the need to invigorate ecclesias and continue to grow faith together in our post pandemic world.
Survey for Listeners
In this episode Levi asks for feedback from listeners of A Little Faith. He describes the short survey available at wcfoundation.org/alfsurvey. Levi appreciates your participation and help in setting the direction for the next season of A Little Faith.
The survey takes 3 minutes to complete and is available here: wcfoundation.org/alfsurvey
Meet the Director: Virginia Brierly
In this episode, Levi talks with Virginia Brierly, the treasurer of WCF. Virginia celebrates the international connections facilitated by WCF programs and the volunteer opportunities available. She shares with Levi about her early years in CYC and grow
ing conviction in the 1960s. She discusses meeting her husband Russ, doing mission work, and settling near Williamsburg, VA. As treasurer for WCF, Virginia is passionate about how North American brothers and sisters can contribute financially or through volunteer efforts to programs like Touch to Teach, White Fields, The Garden, and Hymns for Sunday.
Levi’s Top 5 Episodes
Happy 3rd Birthday “A Little Faith”! To celebrate, Levi has gone back into the archives and reviewed some of his favorite conversations around faith on this podcast. In this episode Levi provides the context and offers personal reflections on each of these five memorable conversations.
Toni Banks on Faith After 100
In this episode Levi chats with centenarian Sis. Toni Banks. She describes her courtship with Bro. Jonny in Manilla, Philippines during the Korean War, followed by a 75 day journey by cargo ship back to Birmingham, England to meet his extended family. She reflects on her career as a manager in food services after making their home in Los Angeles. She shares her impressions of seeing Mount Sinai, ice buildings in Sweden and Hollywood Blvd. Levi and Toni discuss the importance of seeking God's guidance in prayer in all aspects of life. Toni is an animated storyteller with a remarkable memory for describing the many people and events she has encountered on her faith journey.
"For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." Jer. 29:11
White Fields Volunteers on Phillipines Summer Bible Camp
In this episode Levi chats with Daniel, Janelle and Janet about their enriching experience attending the Camiguin Island Bible School in the Philippines. They describe the vibrant fellowship and loving care they received from the local brothers and sisters. Janet and Janelle share the impact on their faith of feeling part of a body of believers that spans the globe and history. There is a thoughtful discussion about the ritual of sharing bread and wine in this engaging conversation.
Ecclesial News with Bill Yake
Levi and Bill Yake explore how we can strengthen and encourage faith in each other by sharing personal and ecclesial news across our community. Bill tells the story of how his grassroots "Ecclesial News" email list grew to over 850 subscribers, filling the need for connection in the pre-Facebook era. They discuss WCF's new e-newsletter, Vineyard Voice. Bill encourages anyone who sees a need in the community to take initiative and make a difference. 1 Corinthians 12:26: “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
More Info:
The Vineyard Voice
Josh Budney and Seth Thomas on their Prepare 2 Preach trip to South Africa
Levi chats to Josh Budney and Seth Thomas about their recent trip to South Africa with the Prepare 2 Preach team. They describe their experience supporting Cuddletrust projects- painting murals at preschools, teaching life lessons to kids at Bible clubs and delivering food parcels to those in need. Seth reflects on opportunities to witness during a beach cleanup. Josh describes the impact of making a personal connection with a young boy in the Townships. They discuss their P2P training and learning about personal preaching styles.
More Info:
Cuddle Trust
Rachel Johnson on RVA Light
Rachel chats to Levi about RVA Light, a nonprofit coffee shop sharing the light of Jesus in Richmond, Virginia. Rachel is a Registered Nurse, who has experience specializing in mental health nursing. She now works full time as RVA Light’s Executive Director, and talks about learning from the example set by Jesus in how to put faith into action.
More Info:
RVA Light
Matt Colby on Fatherhood, Boundaries and Parenting Partnerships
Matt chats to Levi about parenting through the pandemic and the perspective it has given him being a father to two young boys. He reflects on self-awareness, boundaries and being a more supportive partner in parenting. Through all of this is the recognition of God’s loving presence in our lives as a Father to all.
Kara Soucy on Becoming a Mother During the Pandemic
Kara chats to Helen about becoming a mother during the pandemic. They discuss the challenges many women have faced over the past year, reflecting on the journey between hospital and home, exploring new identities and different experiences of mental and spiritual health without the usual support many new families receive. We are so grateful for the stories shared by Rosie, Elisabeth, Anna, Crystal, Amanda and Josie. May God continue to bless and guide you on your journeys.
More Info:
Online Bible School
Peter Clausen on Healing the Brain and the Power of Music
Peter chats to Levi about recovering from a stroke and learning to embrace music and worship again. Peter is a passionate musician who loves to play the piano and sing. He reflects upon his stroke and the therapy that allowed him to heal, and continue to express his love for God and the Lord Jesus through music.
More Info:
Some Effects of Disconnecting the Cerebral Hemispheres - Roger W. Sperry
Christadelphian Music
Keletso Ndlovu on Teaching and Transformation in South Africa
Keletso talks to Levi about growing up in the townships and how his connection with The Cuddle Trust was the beginning of a transformative faith journey. He shares the challenges of moving to a new place and training as a teacher, and how many prayers and God’s guiding hand helped him understand his purpose and identity.
More Info:
Cuddle Trust
Ignite & Shine
Liezl Viljoen on The Cuddle Trust in South Africa
Liezl chats to Levi about working with The Cuddle Trust in South Africa. The Cuddle Trust focuses on the education needs of pre-school and Grade R children and teachers in disadvantaged and vulnerable communities. From this main project flows other projects that help uplift and develop those who at first cannot help themselves to a better life. Liezl reflects on how this has impacted her faith and worldview, and invites others to come and volunteer.
More Info:
Cuddle Trust
Ignite & Shine
Laura De Caussin on Mental Health and Mentoring
Laura reconnects with Levi about her Instagram account ‘Faithfully Laura’ where she shares regular reflections on life and faith. They discuss the challenges and spiritual learnings of managing mental health, especially through the pandemic. Laura also promotes the need for mentoring programs to be an essential part of growing up and being supported in a faith community.
Follow faithfullylaura on Instagram
Reflections on the Pandemic, one year on with Levi Gelineau and Helen Roberts
In this episode of A Little Faith, Levi and Helen reflect on the Pandemic one year on. They discuss how life has changed over the past year personally and collectively for us all. We are only just beginning to process the change and loss that has been felt on many levels. But in all things we know we have a God who loves us very much.
Aletheia Burney on Hymns for Sunday
In this episode Levi chats to Aletheia Burney about Hymns for Sunday. What started as an initial request to provide some hymn videos for online services during the Pandemic, has transformed into a wonderful growing collection of hymns on https://wcfoundation.org/hymns and WCF’s first album on digital streaming platforms. Aletheia also reflects on her spiritual journey and how music has shaped her faith.
Mary Styles On Her Work As A Mental Health Therapist
Matt talks with Mary Styles about her work as a mental health therapist and a believer. She shares some experiences and wisdom from her faith journey and advocates our need to have a safety plan, crisis intervention and to build a support system.
Dan Weatherall and Paul Davenport on Bible Feed
Sam Taylor on Pause to Consider
Mark Drabenstott on Blessings and Connectedness
Michael Ash on Music and Mental Health through Route 66
Cam Beeler on White Fields and Inspiring Mission
Jonny Pappas on Kneading Joy Around the Table
Nolan Patterson on Fathering during the Pandemic
Rebekah Lewis On Coping With Isolation As A Parent
Kezia Reed on Homeless Prevention
Leah Ruhland on mentoring youth and building resilience
Dawne Andrews-Semple on her mother's life and the Karolyn Andrews Memorial Fund
If you would like to donate to the Karolyn Andrews Memorial Fund please visit:
wcfoundation.org/donate and label your donation ‘KAMF’.
Conversations on Race and Faith
Jessica Gelineau on the Soul of Pie
Laura de Caussin on Sharing your Faith on Social Media
Joanie Kaufman on Little Seeds of Faith
What A Proverbs 31 Woman Can Teach Us Today
Tom & Naomi Peel on their podcast From the Platform
about raising our own self-awareness of our own biases and what we bring to a conversation, and enabling different ways to nurture good conversation within the Christadelphian community.