Understanding Church

Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone are joined by Lauren Wolcott, Communications Director for the Southwestern PA Synod. Lauren brings her expertise in shaping a more human, relational approach to communication in the church. She outlines the core principles of effective communication and walks us through a real example that will soon be implemented as part of the Synod’s intentional goals. T...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone discuss a topic that is often misunderstood...judgment! How quickly we tend to judge others in a negative light. It comes so naturally to do so. This discussion focuses not only on what biblical judgment is as defined but also on how to recognize when we are being 'judgy' and how to counter that behavior. In addition, how can we s...

We have all heard the jokes about St. Peter standing at the gates of heaven to determine whether we are in or out. Well, that is probably not how that will occur. In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone dive deeply into an important discussion about what "being saved" means biblically and in the Lutheran tradition through faith alone, through grace alone, by Christ alon...

Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone gather with Ben Fogt and Keith Fair to discuss the Understanding Church podcast specifically how it got started, the area of focus, and the importance of continuing to create a monthly podcast based upon congregational questions. There are three sections to this podcast, Pastor Dan and Pastor Wendy take the lead on Section B (but listen to it all, it's...

Ever wonder why the Hebrew Bible (aka the Old Testament) is still important when we have a New Testament and Jesus? Throughout this episode Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone discuss why the Hebrew portion of the Bible is critical to understanding the New Testament. At recording, it is Lent and discussion flows a bit into that topic as it relates to the Biblical narrative as well. Thanks for...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone are joined by Andre Francois, who has been the chair of the Stewardship Committee for many years. We explore how to recognize and use the gifts God has placed within you. We share practical insight on discovering your strengths, serving with purpose, and honoring God through everyday stewardship. It’s an encouraging, focused conversation th...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone welcome our guest, the newly installed Bishop Melissa Stoller, from the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod, to discuss her new role as bishop, expectations for the future of the synod and the ELCA and much more!

This episode sounds scary! The wrath of God! Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone share what this 'wrath' truly means and why it is so prevalent within the biblical narrative. Further, what is this 'wrath' intended to create in us and our behavior? In this episode, myths are dispelled, and the true understanding of the wrath of God is discussed.

In this episode, special guest Pastor Erin Evans shares her experience and insight on the topic of Children in Church with Pastor Dan Smail and Pastor Wendy Farone. Discussion surrounds integrating and engaging children within the church, whether they are very young or nearly adults, through teaching, explaining, and becoming a part of the church body. There are insights and some tips on how to fi...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone share what makes Lutheranism distinctive! Discussions of these distinctions include a brief history, Luther's perspective that we are saved by grace through faith alone, and why we are called to "Sin Boldly" because we trust in God's grace, as well as other related topics. Bonus: A behind-the-scenes clip of our prerecordi...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone welcome Chaplain Gaea Thompson, who serves as Manager of Pastoral Care at UPMC Presbyterian/Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburgh. Chaplain Gaea guides us through the work and important care of the hospital chaplain as a "Physician of the Soul."  The discussion is rich in guiding us toward understanding the role of serving in a hospita...

Guest Lynn Holden, Spiritual Director, joins Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone to discuss spiritual direction as the building of a relationship through which one person, the spiritual director, guides another toward the presence and call of God in all of life. Lynn shares the difference between counseling and spiritual direction, how one becomes a spiritual director, and the importance of ga...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone discuss a central doctrine of the Lutheran Church. There are a lot of 'churchy' words in just the episode title! Not to worry, we make it easy to understand! Justification by faith is a divine act by which God declares us righteous or in right relationship by offering us grace. Being in right relationship doesn't mean that we...

Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone are thrilled to transition our podcast to a new brand format under the Title Understanding Church . In this episode, discussion surrounds memories and experiences from the beginning of Bethlehem Backchat to present day intentions for a reimagined approach. Come laugh with us as we review where we have been and the future curiosities we plan to explore and un...

Just in time for Lent and Easter! In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone discuss the psychological, physical, and spiritual impact of carrying guilt and shame. Do we understand the difference between guilt and shame? They are often used interchangeably but there is truly a difference. Why are we unable to let some things go? We will identify the difference and discuss the avenue...

The Advent of the birth of Christ begins a new church (liturgical) year! Throughout the church year, we experience a rhythm and structure that guide our learning, praise, and thanksgiving through Christ's birth, death, and resurrection and the fulfillment of the promise of the Holy Spirit. This podcast walks through the church year from Advent to Christmas, Epiphany to Lent and Easter to Pent...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone, review what healing is all about as it relates to Jesus. It is a bit complex, and it surely requires a little contemplation and understanding. Discussion involves the difference between curing and healing. Further, sharing is offered on Jesus' teaching and healing focusing on common questions around this topic. What does 'healing&...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Vicar Wendy Farone discuss the two types of doubt including self-doubt and a doubt in God. We have all experienced doubt in one or both of these types as it relates to discernment and hope in being the best we can be. Discussion surrounds how to view doubt so that it can be a learning and blessing opportunity in spiritual growth and faithfulness. 

We suffer in many ways. We can gain comfort in knowing that there is hope in Christ and that our community can offer support in such times. When we are struggling, we are never alone. What does the scripture say about how to handle such emotions and situations. In this episode, Pastor Dan and Vicar Wendy Farone offer insight and consideration as we "make our light so shine" in the world....

In this episode, Pastor Dan and Wendy Farone discuss the offerings available through Lutheran Senior Life with our guest, fellow Lutheran, Vice-President of Development and President of Lutheran Senior Life Foundation, Jane Bittcher. You will be amazed at how much is offered whether you are a senior at 50 or 90-years old, you love a senior, or are interested in making plans for when you will be a...

In this episode, Pastor Dan and Wendy Farone discuss the promise that "Christ Has Died." [We know that from Good Friday]; "Christ Has Risen." [Yes! Risen Indeed!] and "Christ Will Come Again." OK, when? What does all that mean? We also talk about why the Easter season lasts for several weeks. You may want to listen twice as there are some very important points made ab...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss how to engage in the Psalms. They are unique and need to be approached in a way different from other scriptures. Are the Psalms poetry, songs, or prayers? How do we read them to get the most understanding? Why do we read them responsively in worship? Understanding the way to read the Psalms is the best way to understand the writer of the P...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone speak with Josh Kenst, who is serving as a missionary/volunteer in Senegal, West Africa. Josh is part of the YAGM (Young Adults in Global Mission) initiative through the ELCA. His mission is for one year and he shares his experience in building relationships. As part of his welcome there, he was able to choose fabric for his clothing...a nod to hi...

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss the common phrase, "I'm spiritual but not religious." What does that actually mean? Discussion surrounds the cultural meaning of 'spiritual' compared to the Christian meaning of 'spiritual.' In addition, there is some interesting insight into what it means to be religious...it's not all about going t...

Listening for specific things within a sermon can help you get the most out of the sermon message! In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone offer suggestions that may plant a seed that helps your understanding grow. We will discuss the purpose and intention of the sermon, how long a sermon should be, and how best to listen utilizing the acronym 'SEA'--Scripture, Engagement, and...