In this episode, Jason sits down with Reward Sibanda, a pastor, speaker, and writer, a leading voice on fasting and a Pastor at Saddleback Church. Reward is known for his contagious joy, his deep love for the church, and his ability to bridge cultural gaps in ministry.In this conversation, Jason and Reward explore:How different cultural perspectives shape our understanding of church, community, and discipleship.The tension around megachurches and why large-scale ministry can still be redeemed for kingdom expansion.The recent Return Gathering at Saddleback and signs of revival across the global church.The spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits of fasting—and why this ancient discipline is crucial for leaders today.No matter your context, our hope is you would be strengthened and encouraged by this conversation today.BiographyReward Sibanda is a dynamic speaker, writer, pastor at Saddleback Church, and the Senior Director of National Church Engagement at World Vision, the world's largest Christian humanitarian organization. Renowned for his unique perspective and transformative insights that challenge conventional thinking, Reward thrives on empowering and challenging people from all walks of life to transcend limitations and pursue God's best for them. His ministry inspires many, and his book, How to Fast, offers a powerful guide to rejuvenation. Reward resides in California with his wife Pam and son Silo.We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Applications close on April 1st!Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bible Course⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Guest NotesReward's WebsiteSaddleback ChurchHow To Fast—Reward’s New BookReward's InstagramShow NotesWebsite⁠⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠Instagram⁠

In this episode of The Pastorate, Jason sits down with Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author of The Familiar Stranger, to explore how God works in seasons of suffering and renewal. Tyler shares candidly on how deep pain has shaped his understanding of faith, ministry, and the presence of God in everyday life.Tyler is known for his deep love of prayer, his thoughtful teaching, and his passion for seeing people encounter the living God. In this conversation Tyler and Jason cover these themes, Tyler’s experiences of walking through suffering—both in his family and his own health—and how those experiences have shaped his faith and ministry. Inviting others into the story of God in preaching in order to provide them a context for their pain.Cultivating a deeper desire to encounter the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit every day.Tyler’s new book, The Familiar Stranger.No matter where you are or what season you’re walking through, our prayer is that this conversation would strengthen your heart and your hands, and that you’d experience a renewed sense of the Father’s desire and ability to redeem your pain.BiographyTyler Staton is the Lead Pastor of Bridgetown Church in Portland, Oregon, where he lives with his wife Kirsten, and their sons Hank, Simon, and Amos. He is passionate about living prayerfully and relationally. Tyler is the author of three books: Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools, Searching for Enough, and The Familiar Stranger.We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Thanks to Generis for supporting this episode. Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Guest NotesTyler’s Website https://www.tylerstaton.com/The Familiar Stranger https://www.amazon.ca/Familiar-Stranger-Introducing-Experiential-Spirituality/dp/1400247705Bridgetown Church https://bridgetown.church/24-7 Prayer USA https://www.24-7prayerusa.com/Show NotesWebsite⁠⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠Instagram⁠

Pastoring in rural Canada comes with unique challenges and opportunities—navigating leadership transitions, bilingual ministry, and the call to raise up the next generation of leaders. That’s why we need pastors who commit to remaining faithful over decades, seeking God’s guidance through seasons of change.In this episode we’re joined by Claude Lainey, lead pastor of Gospel Mission Church in Winkler, Manitoba, to hear his story of moving from Northern Ontario to Manitoba and the lessons he’s learned along the way.In this conversation, Claude shares: How his journey into bilingual ministry shaped his leadership and heart for the Church. The challenges and rewards of pastoring in rural Canada. The role of humility and perseverance in navigating church transitions. Why mentorship and discipleship are more critical than ever for the next generation of pastors.For those leading in small towns or large cities alike, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder to stay faithful to God’s calling—no matter where He leads.BiographyClaude Lainey has been the lead pastor of Gospel Mission Church in Winkler, Manitoba, since 2005. Originally from Northern Ontario, he grew up in French Canadian communities before moving to the Pembina Valley, where he quickly grew to love the people and the region. With a passion for discipleship and spiritual renewal, Claude is dedicated to helping others experience God in a real and personal way. His wife, Micheline, serves alongside him as the Pastor of Grow Kids Ministry, and together they are committed to equipping the church and investing in the next generation.We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake is happening now!Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guest NotesGospel Mission ChurchShow NotesWebsite⁠⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠Instagram⁠

Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and for many, it’s hard to make sense of it all—let alone carry the weight of shifting expectations and uncertainty. That’s why we’re grateful for voices like Mark’s—leaders who cut through the noise with a prophetic edge, distill complex cultural trends, and speak to the Church with a non-anxious presence.Today, we’re joined by Mark Sayers—pastor, author, and cultural commentator—known for his sharp insights into secularism, leadership, and the Church’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world.In this conversation, Mark shares:The personal and pastoral challenges he has faced, including his wife Trudy’s battle with cancer and how it has reshaped his leadership and faith.What it means to remain faithful over decades of ministry and how suffering forms resilience.Why secularism is weakening and the new spiritual openness emerging globally.The Church’s role in navigating political, economic, and social shifts in the years ahead.Platforms to Pillars, Mark’s upcoming book that explores the dangers of platform-driven leadership versus the biblical vision of being a ‘pillar’ in the temple of God.For those leading in uncertain times, this episode offers wisdom, perspective, and encouragement to help you stay faithful and navigate what’s ahead.BiographyMark is the senior leader of Red Church in Melbourne, Australia. He is passionate about spiritual renewal and the future of the church. Mark is the author of a number of books including Strange Days and Reappearing Church.  Mark lives in Melbourne with his wife, Trudi, his daughter, Grace, and twin boys, Hudson and Billy.Show NotesWe couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church.Join ourEmerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon!Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bible Course⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.Guest NotesRed ChurchRebuilders PodcastMark’s WebsiteShow NotesWebsite⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠Instagram⁠

Preaching with authenticity is no easy task, but for Megan, authenticity is the only gear she knows. The question remains—how do we craft honest sermons and let the message impact our own lives first? Megan is a pastor, speaker, and author joining us from Lakewood, California. She serves as the teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in Illinois and leads a women’s Bible study at Arbor Road Church in Long Beach, California. Whether preaching, leading, or writing her latest book, Megan brings a refreshing honesty that resonates deeply and inspires many. In today’s conversation, you’ll hear about: - How joy, longing, and sorrow intertwine to deepen hope and trust in God - Two practical prayer rhythms Megan has developed to foster intimacy with Jesus - What it looks like to preach with integrity while wrestling with the reality of mixed motives - The heart behind her new book, Relaxed Megan is known for sharing with energy, joy, and sincerity—so we hope this conversation encourages you today. Biography Megan is determined to use her life to spread hope, share truth, and celebrate others. She is finishing her Doctorate of Ministry as she serves as a teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church and the Director of Women’s Ministries at Hume Lake Christian Camps. She also shepherds women at Arbor Road Church in Long Beach, California. She invests her time in people, writing books and Bible studies, and exploring all over the globe, teaching and sharing the love of Jesus. She released the book and study guide Relaxed and Beautiful Word Bible study: John, authored the book and Bible study Meant for Good, SelfLess, and co-wrote the book 7 Family Ministry Essentials with Dr. Michelle Anthony. But what we love most about Megan is the way that she sees others. She has a keen ability to notice the people around her and to ask the kinds of questions that help her see them even more clearly. Megan lives in Lakewood, California with her two boys, Foster and Jedidiah. Sponsors We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to Generis for supporting this episode. Download a free PDF on Improving Your Giving Statements from Generis or get in touch with Jon Wright from their team here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guest Notes - Website - Instagram - Relaxed Book Show Notes - Website⁠ - ⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠ - Youtube⁠ - ⁠Instagram⁠

It’s a New Year, and we’re thrilled to welcome you back to The Pastorate. As we step into 2025, we’re continuing our mission of creating meaningful conversations to equip and encourage pastors, starting with an episode we pray will strengthen both your hands and your heart for the work ahead. Our guest today is Andy Moore, Pastor of Coastline Church in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia. With years of ministry experience and a heartfelt dedication to developing leaders, Andy offers a perspective both profound and practical. This in-person conversation, recorded in Andy’s home, is one we’re excited to share with you. Andy shares about: How God brought redemption through seasons of deep pain, transforming his life and ministry Insights into the rich, 101-year history of Coastline Church and the privilege and challenge of leading in a context with such a legacy His passion for developing young pastors and the intentional steps he’s taken to create an environment where emerging leaders thrive He also speaks profoundly about the generational nature of God’s work, explaining how a long-term, big-picture vision for the Church sustains his faithfulness through challenging seasons. We’re so grateful you’ve joined us for today’s conversation. May it encourage and inspire you as you listen. Bio | Pastor Andy Moore is the Lead Pastor of Coastline Church in Victoria, BC. Coastline is a vibrant, multi-site church in the heart of Victoria with a 101 year history. Andy has been in ministry for over 30 years and has been pastoring at Coastline Church for 23 years. Andy and his wife Lisa share a journey of redemption, healing and vibrant new beginnings that shows the incredible hope and faithfulness of Jesus! They are passionate about training leaders and planting churches. Under their leadership, Coastline Church is a thriving movement with a rich history, a bright future and a vision to plant life-giving churches across Vancouver Island. They have a full life with four children, a son-in-law and one granddaughter. We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bible Course⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guest Notes Coastline Church Show Notes Website⁠ ⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Share a Canadian Church Story

As we close out 2024, we’re excited to bring you a special episode to end the year. Last year, we began a tradition of hosting a conversation with Darrell Johnson near the end of each year, and it’s quickly become a meaningful rhythm for this podcast—a chance to sit down and reflect on life and ministry. Darrell has been preaching, teaching, and pastoring for over 50 years, with a ministry journey that has taken him from the Philippines to the United States and, of course, here in Canada. He currently serves as part of the Teaching and Pastoral Team at The Way Church in Vancouver, BC, and is the author of several impactful books, including Discipleship on the Edge, Ephesians: The Wonder and Walk of Being Alive in Christ, and his latest release, That You May Live: How the 10 Commandments Lead to Human Freedom. For this conversation Jason had the opportunity to join Darrell in his study at home where Darrell spends time each morning in devotion and study. In this episode, Darrell shares about: Some of his morning rhythms, the practices that he’s found that work in his life to create space for a life with God. Disciple-making in our modern context, including the value of one-on-one conversations and how he would anchor discipleship in teaching people how to read the Bible and pray. Reflections on his health journey over the past few months, candidly sharing about both challenges and God’s faithfulness through it all. We’re so grateful you’ve joined us for this conversation on The Pastorate. Our prayer is that this conversation encourages and equips you as you prepare to step into 2025. Biography Darrell Johnson has been preaching Jesus Christ and His Gospel for over 50 years. He has served a number of Presbyterian congregations in California, Union Church of Manila in the Philippines, and the historic First Baptist Church in the heart of Vancouver, Canada. He has taught preaching for Fuller Theological Seminary, Carey Theological College in Vancouver, and Regent College in Vancouver. He has authored eight books, including The Glory of Preaching and Discipleship on the Edge: An Expository Journey Through Revelation. He is currently serving as Scholar-in-Residence for The Way Church and The Pastorate. He and his wife Sharon have been married 47 years. Together they have raised four children adopted from four different countries of the world, and now enjoy loving nine active grandchildren! Sponsors We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins in January! Guest Notes Darrell’s website Notes on Psalms Instagram Discipleship on the Edge Ephesians: The Wonder and Walk of Being Alive in Christ That You May Live Show Notes Website⁠ ⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠

A question many of us face this time of year is how to guide our congregations well through the Advent season. In the midst of pastoring others, some of us have been able to enter into the wonder of the season ourselves, some of us are navigating the busyness of planning and executing events and services, and others of us are walking through a deeply painful season that can come with this time of year. Wherever you find yourself today, our prayer is that this time spent listening to this conversation will strengthen your hands, fill your heart with courage, and draw you deeper into the joys of this Advent season. Today, AJ Sherrill joins us from St. Peter’s Church in Charleston, South Carolina. AJ has pastored in diverse contexts—from California to New York to Grand Rapids—before settling in Charleston with his family. He’s also an accomplished author, and his latest book, Rediscovering Christmas, is a profound exploration of the Bible’s Christmas story, helping us embrace the ancient wonder of the season. In this episode, AJ shares about: His new book, Rediscovering Christmas, and its surprising insights into the Bible’s Christmas story. How to discover and develop your unique pastoral voice as a communicator. The importance of slowing down to truly pastor your congregation where they are. We’re so grateful you’ve joined us for this conversation on The Pastorate. May God bless you as you listen and enter into the wonder of Advent. Biography AJ Sherrill has served as a lead pastor for over two decades in churches across the country, from Southern California to New York City, and now calls the Low Country home. He holds two master’s degrees in theology and a doctorate in spiritual formation. AJ teaches courses on preaching and the Enneagram at Fuller Theological Seminary and leads workshops on spiritual formation and personality theory. Above all, he is a disciple of Jesus, husband to Elaina, and father to Eloise. On a lighter note, he is also a dedicated—though often humbled—Michigan fan. Sponsors We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Guest Notes AJ’s Website Instagram Rediscovering Christmas Being With God: The Absurdity, Necessity and Neurology of Contemplative Prayer The Enneagram For Spiritual Formation: How Knowing Ourselves Can Make Us More Like Jesus Show Notes Website⁠ ⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠

Pastoring has always been a vocation of great responsibility, yet the expectations placed on pastors today have grown increasingly complex. From preaching and shepherding to being organizational leaders, cultural commentators, and trauma-informed counselors, the demands can stack up, making the work feel impossible. Add to this the challenge of navigating a rapidly changing cultural and technological landscape, and it’s no wonder so many pastors wrestle with questions of calling, capacity, and resilience. But amidst these challenges the ancient wisdom of the church and the gift of pastoral community offer a way forward. In this episode of The Pastorate, we sit down with Glenn Packiam, Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California, to explore the depth and complexity of pastoral ministry in today’s world. Glenn brings his unique perspective as a pastor, offering insights on how to remain grounded in the midst of ministry’s ever-growing demands. Drawing from both his own experiences, Glenn unpacks practical strategies for navigating the weight of expectations placed on pastors, cultivating resilience through ancient spiritual practices, and fostering healthy team dynamics with a focus on self-awareness. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or new to pastoral ministry, this conversation will encourage and equip you to lead with renewed clarity and grace. Our conversation with Glenn Packiam covers: The impossible expectations placed on pastors today and how to navigate them with grace. The timeless wisdom of the church, including the value of ancient practices like the prayer of Examen.  The power that self-awareness and healthy team has to sustain longevity in ministry.  We’re thankful you’ve joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Biography Glenn Packiam serves as the Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California. Glenn has written several books, including The Resilient Pastor, Blessed Broken Given, and his latest work, The Intentional Year, co-authored with his wife, Holly. Holding a Doctorate in Theology and Ministry from Durham University, Glenn is also a Senior Fellow at Barna Group, a Visiting Fellow at St. John’s College, Durham University, and an ordained priest in the Anglican Church of North America. As a songwriter, Glenn has contributed to over 65 worship songs. Glenn and Holly reside in Orange County, California, with their four children. Sponsors We couldn’t do the work we do at The Pastorate without your generous support. We invite you to pray, share, and ⁠give⁠ towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Join our Emerging Leaders Lab to connect with fellow pastors in their 20s and 30s, foster resilience and effectiveness in ministry, and learn from some of the brightest minds in the Church today. Our next intake begins soon! Thanks to the Canadian Bible Society for supporting this episode. Learn more about their ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Bible Course⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Guest Notes Glenn’s Website Rockharbor Church The Resilient Pastor  The Intentional Year Show Notes Website⁠   ⁠Blog and Episode Write Up⁠ ⁠Youtube⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠

Carey Nieuwhof, a bestselling leadership author and former attorney, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of ministry. He reflects on his journey of stepping back from his lead role, emphasizing the humility required in supporting new leaders. Carey discusses the shift from consumer Christianity to genuine discipleship, urging a reorientation of ministry models. He candidly addresses the dangers of isolation in pastoring and the importance of building authentic relationships to maintain spiritual health.