What if true evangelism begins with a warm welcome? In this episode of Native Exiles, we sit down with Danny Franks, pastor and expert on guest services, to talk about why hospitality is not just a program—but a reflection of the gospel itself.

Danny unpacks how the early church made belonging a central part of its witness, and how modern churches can reclaim that same spirit of invitation. We’ll discuss the theology behind hospitality, the barriers that keep churches from being truly welcoming, and practical ways to create spaces where strangers feel seen, known, and loved.

Danny Franks is the Pastor of Guest Services at The Summit Church in Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, where he helps churches create cultures of genuine hospitality that reflect the heart of the gospel. He’s the author of People Are the Mission: How Churches Can Welcome Guests Without Compromising the Gospel and shares insights on ministry and life through his blog, Connective Tissue—a mix of practical wisdom, humor, and honest reflection.

Native Exiles is a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it.

Welcome to Season 5 of Native Exiles!

We wanted to start our Season by answering the question, "Does God Take Back His Promises?" Even when we are anxious about what is ahead, the promise of God is that he will be in it with us. The question really is, "What if all of those promises actually have an asterisk? What if there is hidden clause?" What if it is,"He will keep his promises if we obey him?" Then what, does he take back his promises? Let's talk about it!

Native Exiles, a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. We want to help you think through how to walk with Jesus in a world that is seemingly walking the opposite direction. We want to equip you to engage the world without disengaging from Jesus.

We are excited to share the audio from our Mental Health Seminar with Dr. Gregory Jantz. Dr. Jantz share practical resources to quantify anxiety and begin the journey towards healing. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety or looking to help others who may be, Dr. Jantz has something to say for everyone involved in this conversation.

Doctor Gregory Jantz is an acclaimed author, speaker, and researcher in the field of mental health. From eating disorders to depression, Dr. Jantz has written and conducted research on a wide range of mental health topic. Out of his work, Dr. Jantz started A Place of Hope, to put into practice a holistic approach to addressing mental health concerns. As a follower of Jesus, Dr. Jantz continue to model a balanced view on mental health that finds its basis in scripture.