Hosts: TJ Freeman and Sean Demars

Summary: In this special crossover episode, TJ Freeman and Sean Demars discuss the complexities and rewards of rural ministry. They examine the role of the Brainerd Institute in supporting rural pastors and churches in underserved areas. They also explore questions around effective leadership, the importance of community, and how to maintain spiritual health in isolated regions. The episode concludes with practical guidance for church renewal and the significance of placing God's glory at the forefront of ministry efforts.

Connect with us:

• Website: brainerdinstitute.com
• Email: contact@brainerdinstitute.com
• Facebook: Brainerd Facebook

Hosts: TJ Freeman, Joe Wagner, and Josh MacClaren

Summary: In this episode of Rural Church Renewal, Pastor TJ Freeman addresses the challenge of disengaged congregations. Sharing personal experiences from his ministry in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, TJ offers practical advice for pastors on making sermons more engaging and accessible. He emphasizes understanding both the biblical text and the congregation's needs, providing strategies for using effective introductions, relatable illustrations, and persuasive arguments. TJ also highlights the importance of pastoral relationships and prayer in enhancing sermon impact. He encourages pastors to adapt and rethink their preaching methods for the spiritual growth and engagement of their congregation.

Connect with us:

• Website: brainerdinstitute.com
• Email: contact@brainerdinstitute.com
• Facebook: Brainerd Facebook

Hosts: TJ Freeman, Joe Wagner, and Josh MacClaren

Summary: In this episode of Rural Church Renewal, TJ Freeman discusses the heavy burden and opposition faced by church leaders, especially in small, rural congregations. Sharing personal experiences from his ministry in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, TJ offers practical advice on enhancing leadership culture through unhurried prayer, relational intimacy, and strategic decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of elder retreats as a powerful tool for fostering deeper relationships, investing in shared prayer time, and making wise, pressure-free decisions. TJ encourages leaders to view these challenges as opportunities for strategic growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.

Connect with us:

• Website: brainerdinstitute.com
• Email: contact@brainerdinstitute.com
• Facebook: Brainerd Facebook