• Episode 9 – Prophetic Evangelism
    Jul 17 2025

    In this episode of Emissaries of Renewal, DeDe and CC explore what it means to reclaim evangelism’s prophetic roots. Instead of focusing on conversion moments, they look to Old Testament prophets like Amos and Isaiah, who spoke truth to power and called for community justice and renewal.

    The hosts discuss the difference between foretelling and forthtelling, emphasizing that prophecy is about seeing with God’s perspective and addressing both personal and systemic issues. Amos’s bold critique of injustice is highlighted as a model for modern evangelism that challenges unjust systems, not just individual hearts.

    The conversation moves to the power of prophetic imagination—how stories and visions can invite transformation. The episode closes by urging listeners to embody justice, hospitality, and hope, inspired by Isaiah 61’s vision of good news for the poor and renewal for broken places. How can we bring both spiritual hope and tangible justice to our communities?

    Brought to you by the Episcopal Evangelism Society (EES).

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    47 mins
  • Nones and Dones: Radical Hospitality in a Divided World
    Jun 27 2025

    In episode 8 hosts Christina (CC) and Denise (DeDe) explore the growing phenomenon of "Nones and Dones" – those who have walked away from organized religion despite keeping spiritual beliefs. With 28% of U.S. adults now identifying as religiously unaffiliated, this conversation examines why people leave faith communities and how radical hospitality might create paths for healing.

    The hosts discuss how political entanglement in churches has contributed to disillusionment, so Christina and Denise reflect on creating spaces where connection trumps correction.

    The episode features a powerful reflection on Matthew 25:35-36, reminding listeners that authentic faith is shown through compassionate action rather than political alignment. For those hurt by religious institutions, this conversation offers hope for a spirituality built on genuine relationships rather than rigid dogma.

    Brought to you by the Episcopal Evangelism Society (EES).

    Ready to become an Emissary of Renewal? Subscribe and listen now!

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    46 mins
  • Strengthening the Margins
    May 15 2025

    In episode 7, hosts Christina (CC) and Denise (DeDe) explore what it means to center those on the margins in our faith communities truly. The conversation examines Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe's recent message on church realignment, challenging listeners to move beyond simply ministering "to" the marginalized and instead ministering "with" them.

    Drawing from personal experiences with disability ministry and digital church innovations during the pandemic, Christina and Denise discuss practical ways congregations can create accessible evangelism opportunities. They reimagine church systems that empower everyone to participate actively in ministry, regardless of physical presence or ability.

    The hosts reflect on Jesus’ intentional accessibility in the Sermon on the Plain, where he stepped down to meet people where they were. This episode invites listeners to recognize Christ's presence in those often overlooked and share their experiences of inclusive ministry practices.

    Brought to you by the Episcopal Evangelism Society.

    Ready to become an Emissary of Renewal? Subscribe and listen now!
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    28 mins
  • No Gatekeepers at Jesus' Table
    Apr 15 2025

    In our 6th episode, hosts Christina and Denise explore what it truly means to welcome everyone to "the table" - not just the church altar, but anywhere people gather in Jesus' name. They reflect on Jesus' radical inclusivity, noting how his dinner parties brought together tax collectors, sex workers, religious leaders, and fishermen—with no spiritual bouncers checking IDs at the door.

    The hosts challenge listeners to consider the audacity of humans deciding who's worthy to approach Jesus, sharing powerful insights like "It's not your body or your blood, it's not your table, it's not your church." Through personal stories and biblical reflection, they examine how subtle signals in church culture can create barriers despite claims of welcome.

    CCand DeDe connect ethical evangelism to meeting people exactly where they are, trusting the Holy Spirit to handle transformation while we simply "set the table." The episode concludes with a reflection on Luke 14:13-14, where Jesus calls us to invite those who cannot repay us.

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    21 mins
  • Living Your Faith: A Tribute to Jimmy Carter
    Mar 14 2025

    In this special Pod Burst episode, hosts Christina and Denise explore ethical evangelism through the extraordinary example of former President Jimmy Carter. They discuss how Carter seamlessly integrated faith into every aspect of his life—from negotiating peace deals to teaching Sunday school well into his 90s. The conversation highlights Carter's genuine approach to faith not as theoretical debate but as lived experience, evidenced through his work with Habitat for Humanity, the Carter Center's humanitarian efforts, and his humble return to Plains, Georgia after his presidency.

    The hosts share favorite Carter quotes that reveal his honest humanity and reflect on key scriptures that guided his life: Micah 6:8 ("do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God") and James 2:17-18 on showing faith through works. This episode reminds listeners that ethical evangelism isn't about compartmentalizing faith, but allowing it to infuse everything we do.

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    19 mins
  • SLSA: Building Bridges, Transforming Lives
    Feb 17 2025

    Are you ready to experience a deeper, more meaningful way to share your faith? In this episode of Emissaries of Renewal, we explore the Seek-Listen-Speak-Act (SLSA) framework—a holistic approach to relational evangelism that fosters genuine connection and lasting transformation.

    Join Christina and Denise as they guide you through the four powerful steps of SLSA, using inspiring real-life stories as examples. Learn how to:

    ● Seek: Proactively identify opportunities to connect with others and understand their needs within your community.

    ● Listen: Develop the art of hearing the unspoken hopes, dreams, and concerns of those around you. This is about fostering deep understanding and empathy.

    ● Speak: Communicate your faith authentically and respectfully, creating space for meaningful dialogue and connection.

    ● Act: Turn empathy into action. We’ll explore ways to translate compassion into tangible service and positive change within your community.

    This episode provides practical tools and inspiring examples, drawing on the wisdom of John 1:45-46, where Philip’s simple invitation, "Come and see," mirrors the spirit of SLSA. This is your invitation to discover a more holistic and impactful approach to sharing your faith.

    Ready to become an Emissary of Renewal? Subscribe and Listen now!

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    22 mins
  • How We Got Here: A Look at the Episcopal Evangelism Society
    Jan 15 2025

    This month on "Emissaries of Renewal," join Denise (DeDe) and Christina (CC) as they explore the Episcopal Evangelism Society—EES! Founded in 1862, the EES started by supporting aspiring preachers through scholarships but has grown to include publishing, conferences, and the innovative "Evangelism for the Twenty-First Century" grant program (launched in 1998). CC and DeDe share how grateful they are to be among its recipients in 2024 and how this grant made the podcast possible. They share the experience of navigating the grant process and how their different approaches ultimately led to this podcast—a platform dedicated to discussing ethical and inclusive evangelism rooted in God's transformative love while also discussing the EES's commitment to respectful and inclusive outreach. DeDe closes with a reflection on Romans 12:2, urging us all to seek renewal and alignment with God's will.

    Don’t hesitate to share your perspectives on evangelism —and don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss an episode! Listen now and subscribe!

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    11 mins
  • Crossroads of Faith: London’s Lessons on Church Growth and Inclusion
    Dec 16 2024

    In this episode of "Emissaries of Renewal," hosts Christina (CC) and Denise (DeDe) discuss ethical and inclusive evangelism by drawing on CC's experiences in London. They emphasize the importance of interfaith engagement, highlighting shared values and unity amidst diversity as foundational to ethical evangelism. A significant focus is placed on the Multiply 2024 seminar, which aims to discipline and empower young people for future church leadership. This sustainable approach prioritizes nurturing faith over simply counting conversions.

    CC's experiences culminate in a commitment to implement these insights in local contexts, underscoring that ethical evangelism fosters inclusive communities rather than merely disseminating messages. Their discussion references Acts 2:42-47, highlighting the early church's model of community and generosity as a template for modern evangelism. The episode ties these insights to core principles of ethical evangelism: respect, understanding, and genuine connection. The hosts conclude with a challenge for listeners to reflect on how these principles can shape their communities and faith journeys, reinforcing that ethical evangelism is a shared journey toward building vibrant and inclusive faith communities.

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    26 mins