Striking Sparks

In this inspiring interview, Mike VanHook shares his journey from high school Haiti mission trips to founding a transformative ministry in Haiti. Discover how faith, strategic outreach, and servant leadership are making a lasting impact in Haiti and beyond.

summary This episode features an insightful interview with Bradley Williams, President and CEO of Holston Home for Children, discussing the organization's history, mission, and impactful programs. Discover how Holston Home serves children and families through faith-based initiatives, foster care, and innovative education, inspiring listeners to get involved in transformative ministry.

In this conversation, Chris Howlett discusses his role as the Conference Connectional Officer and the shift in focus towards empowering local congregations. He emphasizes the importance of discipleship, collaboration among churches, and moving away from a consumerist model of church engagement. The dialogue explores the need for a spirit-led movement within the church and the significance of recog...

In this engaging conversation, Chuck Griffin, the new Dean of the Cabinet for the Mid-South Annual Conference, shares his journey into ministry, the role of the Dean, and the transformative experiences within the Global Methodist Church. The discussion highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit in worship, the new appointment process, and the focus on discipleship and accountability. Griffin emp...

In this episode, John Carroll and Gregg Benefiel engage with Judge David Duggan to explore the role of lay leadership within local churches. They discuss the responsibilities of lay leaders, the importance of collaboration among them, and the tensions that can arise between lay leadership and clergy. The conversation emphasizes the need for community building, innovative outreach strategies, and t...

In this conversation, Dr. Ben Bowman shares his journey of overcoming challenges, including being legally blind, and his significant contributions to the Global Methodist Church. He discusses the importance of global connection, the role of laity, and the need for transformation within the church. Ben emphasizes the value of leadership training and collaboration with the International Leadership I...

In this conversation, Mark Barrow, the Chief Executive Officer of Aldersgate Renewal Ministries, discusses the importance of Holy Spirit in worship and ministry. He shares his journey from a country Methodist church to leading worship and emphasizes the need for teaching about the Holy Spirit. The discussion covers how local churches can empower their congregations through prayer and the Holy Spir...

In this podcast episode, host Bob Cain, interviews Rev. Dr. Gabi Kopas, the Conference Superintendent of the Slovakia Annual Conference. They discuss the unique cultural and ministerial landscape of Slovakia, the importance of international partnerships, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the Global Methodist Church. Gabi shares insights on work in Slovakia, including church plantin...

In this engaging conversation, Bishop Levingston reflects on the recent Mid-South Annual Conference, highlighting the joy of worship, the importance of community, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. He shares insights on how the conference has evolved from a dreaded event to a celebrated gathering, emphasizing the need for unity and collaboration among diverse congregations. The discu...

In this episode of the Striking Sparks podcast, hosts Brother John, Sherri Tabaka-Morrissey, and Mike Morrissey discuss their journey as newly commissioned missionaries to Thailand. They share their experiences in missionary work, the challenges they faced, and the impact of their programs aimed at church planting, anti-trafficking, and financial training. The conversation also highlights the impo...

In this episode of Striking Sparks, host Bob Cain and guest Brian Ebel discuss the importance of church multiplication and planting. They explore strategies for developing local church initiatives, the hope for congregations to expand their reach, and the mindset of abundance in discipleship. The conversation emphasizes the need for clear processes and encouragement for churches to embrace multipl...

In this conversation, Brother John interviews Rowland Buck, the Dean of the Cabinet for the Global Methodist Church. They discuss Rowland's role, the appointment process for pastors, and the dynamics of the annual conference. Rowland shares insights on how the church is adapting to new systems and the importance of maintaining a close relationship between presiding elders and their churches. T...

In this conversation, Bob Cain interviews Rev. Dr. Matt Seel, who is coming off the Board of Ministry, and discusses what the last few years have been like. From the present Annual Conference of the MidSouth GMC to changes in the Book of Doctrines and Disciplines that have occurred and those that will likely come in the upcoming General Conference in 2026, Matt approaches the subject by handling p...

In this conversation, Brother John interviews David Duggan, the lay leader of the annual conference, discussing the role and responsibilities of lay leaders, the importance of training and community engagement, and the challenges faced by small churches. They also explore the significance of ecumenical efforts and the need for unity among different denominations in the face of societal challenges.

In this conversation, Jessie Mansfield discusses her role as an administrative assistant for the Mid-South Conference, emphasizing the importance of connection among congregations and the collaborative efforts to strengthen local churches. She shares insights on the dynamics of the annual conference, the significance of community, and the challenges faced in organizing events, particularly with te...

In this conversation, Brother John and Brother Bob discuss the vital role of prayer in ministry with their guest, Sue Eaton. They explore how prayer serves as a foundation for church activities, the importance of empowering local churches to have dedicated prayer coordinators, and the necessity of instilling a culture of prayer in youth. The discussion emphasizes listening to God during prayer and...

In this conversation, Suzanne Whittaker discusses her role as the Disaster Relief Coordinator for the MidSouth Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church, emphasizing the importance of empowering local churches to respond to disasters. She shares her experiences following Hurricane Helene, the need for training and resources, and the significance of addressing unseen needs in communities aff...

In this conversation, Todd Chancey discusses his journey in ministry, his new role as the incoming superintendent of the Mid-South Annual Conference, and the importance of community, health, and spiritual growth within the church. He emphasizes the need for connection and empowerment through the Holy Spirit, as well as the significance of Wesleyan theology in guiding the church's mission. Todd...

In this episode of the Striking Sparks podcast, John Carroll interviews Rev. Amy Carlson, the Director of Communications, regarding the vision and goals of the communications team for the MidSouth Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church. They explore the challenges and triumphs in building a communication foundation, the resources available for local congregations, and the importance of c...

 In this engaging conversation, Brother John interviews Bishop Levingston about his experiences and insights as a new bishop. They discuss the importance of term limits, the balance between local church responsibilities and episcopal duties, and the global nature of the church. Bishop Levingston emphasizes the need for accountability, trust, and transparency in leadership, while also sharing perso...

In this engaging conversation, Matthew Conover shares his journey as the Treasurer of the MidSouth Annual Conference and his next journey in his role as the Chief Financial Officer for the General Conference of the GMC. He discusses the challenges and rewards of building a new church community, the importance of keeping Christ central in financial matters, and the impact of local church empowermen...

In this inaugural episode of Striking Sparks, hosts John Carroll and Bob Cain welcome Mike Powers, the Conference Superintendent of the MidSouth Conference. The conversation explores the challenges and joys of ministry, the importance of community and doctrine, and the modern reinterpretation of the superintendency. Mike shares his personal call story, insights on preaching, and the significance o...

Striking Sparks is the podcast of the MidSouth Annual Conference of the Global Methodist Church. We invite you to join us on a journey of exploration and faith. Hosts: Rev. John Carroll, Rev. Bob Cain, Gregg Benefiel Producer: Rev. Bob CainMidSouth MidSouth Director of Communications: Rev. Amy Carlson