In this vulnerable and refreshing conversation, Phil and Richard sit down to talk about the surprising ministry impact of Richard’s poetry book Memento Mori. What began as private reflections written while facing cancer has become a ministry tool touching people who feel unseen, forgotten, or spiritually disconnected. This episode unpacks how creativity intersects with calling, how the Psalms teach us to process real emotion with God, and why the church must make space for honest faith rather than polished performance.

Whether you’re a pastor, ministry leader, or someone carrying private hurt, this episode invites you into the kind of raw, grace-filled reflection that leads to deeper discipleship and authentic connection.

• The unexpected origin of the book

• How poetry opened doors for ministry

• A powerful testimony from a poetry reading

• When Christianity becomes too polished

• Why the Psalms give us permission to be honest

• Creativity can be a ministry tool, even if it begins as personal processing.
• People hunger for spiritual spaces where honest struggle is welcomed, not hidden.
• Your deepest wounds can become bridges to someone else’s healing.
• Emotionally healthy discipleship requires teaching people how to bring their full selves to God.
• Authenticity—not polish—is often what opens the door for gospel conversations.

• Memento Mori – Richard’s poetry book (click for link)
• Connect with Ministry Mix on Instagram: @ministry.mix