Means of Grace
Religion & Spirituality
About
Means of Grace, a podcast from the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, equips church leaders through expertise and examples. Twice a month, we feature local experts on a variety of topics from leadership to innovation and share examples of churches in our conference reaching their communities in news ways through mission engagement, Fresh Expressions and much more. John Wesley, the founder of the Methodist movement, defined Means of Grace as the outward signs, words or actions that are the ordinary channels conveying God's grace to the souls of people. So when we're talking about leadership or discipleship or an outreach initiative, it's about more than doing a program well, it's a means of God's grace to the world.
Episodes
- Handing It Off: Worship, Legacy, and the Future of Conference with Rev. Dr. Kaury Edwards
Rev. Dr. Kaury Edwards discusses the process of leading worship for Annual Conference, focusing on blending Methodist traditions with innovative design. The conversation covers intentional planning, community participation, and the role of…
- Peace by the Lake, Rebuild the Church: Pilgrimage, Change, and the Work Ahead
This episode of Means of Grace, hosted by Jesse Enniss and John Yeager, covers church leadership, the significance of humility, and managing change during appointment season. It highlights mentorship, avoiding ego, and the strength of comm…
- Re-Air: Healing and Hope in Anxious Times
Re-Air episode where Rev. Katherine Sherrill, a therapist and United Methodist deacon, joins hosts Jesse Enniss and Kim Ingram to discuss anxiety. They explore how the church and a relationship with God can offer hope and provide methods f…
- Ashes and Roadmaps with Rev. Dr. In-Yong Lee
In this episode of Means of Grace, John Yeager and Rev. Dr. In-Yong Lee discuss the significance and practices of Lent, including reflection, fasting, and giving. They also explore church leadership challenges, the importance of community…
- Disarming Hatred, Again and Still
This episode of Means of Grace discusses "Disarming Hatred" and practicing peace as resistance, touching on historical contexts, the distinction between Jesus' peace and worldly peace, and the need for community and individual action. Prep…
- God and the Machine with Rev. Nathan Webb
The episode features a conversation with Rev. Nathan Webb, author of 'God and the Machine,' discussing the relationship between faith and technology, including the ethical implications of AI in ministry and building relationships in a digi…
- What We Carry, What We Release
On the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager reflect on the past year and look toward 2026, discussing humility, connection, and community. They explore letting go of perfectionism, embracing change in ministry, the church's…
- 2025 Means of Grace Year in Review
The Means of Grace podcast presents its 2025 Year in Review, sharing a collection of inspirational stories from the past year. The hosts express gratitude for listener support and anticipate more episodes in 2026.
- Preparing Room: Mercy, Immigration, and the Quiet Defiance That Saves Lives
This episode of Means of Grace features Rev. Dr. Luke Edwards discussing the church's role in supporting immigrants facing legal and social challenges. It highlights the WNC Conference Immigrant Ministry Crisis Fund and encourages listener…
- The Heart of Ministry: Embracing Appreciation with Rev. Sally Queen
In this episode of Means of Grace, Reverend Sally Queen discusses the role of appreciation in ministry with hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager. The conversation covers challenges in churches, valuing clergy, showing gratitude, and its impa…
- Missional Sanctification
In this episode of Means of Grace, John and Jesse host Rev. Pam Carter, Wanda Musgrave, and Rev. Wayner Dickert. They discuss the realities of Haiti, the legacy of Dr. Maklin Eugene, and the impact of community-driven initiatives, sharing…
- Stepping Into Superintendency: A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Mark Conforti
This episode features Rev. Dr. Mark Conforti discussing his transition into the role of Yadkin Valley's district superintendent. The conversation covers the integration of administrative and pastoral duties, historical context, future visi…
- The Time is Now: News Around the Western North Carolina Conference
Jesse Enniss and John Yeager discuss the importance of connection in ministry, particularly during difficult periods. They cover community engagement, adapting congregations, and the role of technology and finances.
- Sacred Disobedience: Faithful Resistance and the Call of Conscience
In this episode of Means of Grace, Reverend Jesse Enniss, Reverend John Yeager, and guest Reverend Joel Simpson explore the connection between faith and civil disobedience. They discuss the Moral Monday Movement, the role of clergy in soci…
- A Holy 8 and the Holy Spirit: Reflections on Annual Conference 2025 with Bishop Ken Carter & Rev. Kim Ingram
Means of Grace features host Reverend John Yeager, Bishop Ken Carter, and Reverend Kim Ingram discussing the 2025 Annual Conference. They reflect on the event's location, holy conferencing, Hurricane Helene's impact, youth ministry, ordina…
- The Journey to Annual Conference
Reverends Jesse Enniss and John Yeager reflect on seminary and ministry, celebrating Enniss's graduation from Duke Divinity. They discuss ordination, proposed Annual Conference amendments concerning inclusiveness and racial justice, and th…
- Easter: Living as Resurrection People with Rev. Dan Pezet
On Means of Grace, Rev. Dan Pezet, Jesse Enniss, and John Yeager discuss the Easter message as an invitation to hope and transformation, emphasizing living as "resurrection people." The episode covers identity, change, church adaptation, a…
- Showing Up: Advocating for the Poor and Marginalized with Rev. Joel Simpson (Encore)
This episode features Rev. Joel Simpson, pastor of First UMC in Taylorsville, NC, discussing his advocacy for the poor and marginalized. The conversation covers his participation in protests and faith activism, including the Stations of th…
- Peace Conference 2025
Means of Grace features Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Rev. Beth Crissman discussing the Peace Conference, covering its history, themes of peace and justice, inclusivity, Christian nationalism, and future visions for peacebuilding.
- Season of Lent and the Gospel of Mark: Bishop Ken Carter Interviews Dr. Clifton Black
Bishop Ken Carter interviews Dr. Clifton Black, an authority on the Gospel of Mark, discussing its relevance to the Lenten season and its unique characteristics among the New Testament Gospels.
- Quietly Revolutionary - Examining the Meaning of Lent
On the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager converse with Megan Habich about the significance of Lent, navigating personal challenges, and the future of the church, emphasizing introspection and community support.
- Fresh Expressions 2025
On the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager share their experiences at the Fresh Expressions Conference. They discuss evolving church models, creative worship, community connection, and the role of leaders.
- Sanctuary: The Lawsuit Fighting for Safe Spaces
This episode of Means of Grace features hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager with guests Michelle Chappell and Greg Huffman discussing the concept of sanctuary within the church. The conversation covers its historical context, legal challeng…
- Examining Mystery in Modern Faith with Rev. Rob Hutchinson
Jesse Enniss and Rev. John Yeager talk with Rob Hutchinson about mystery in modern faith, how churches can incorporate it, and the role of community and scripture. Hutchinson highlights dialogue, humility, and a vision for the church focus…
- Exploring the Meaning of Baptism: How a Viking Baptism Brought the Word Mercy to America
Means of Grace hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager explore the profound significance of baptism, its historical roots, theological implications, and its role in shaping Christian identity. The episode covers differing denominational views,…
- Managing and Preventing Burnout
On the Means of Grace podcast, Jesse Enniss and John Yeager explore burnout, its various dimensions, and the crucial role of rest, referencing cultural attitudes and spiritual health. They also touch upon community support and resilience.
- Youth in Ministry with Shannon LeMaster-Smith
Means of Grace features Shannon LeMaster-Smith discussing the role of youth in the church, engagement challenges, authenticity in ministry, and empowering youth as co-creators. The episode covers practical approaches and the future vision…
- Epic Fails with Charles DiRico
On the Means of Grace podcast, hosts Jesse Enniss and John Yeager and guest Charles DiRico explore how failure contributes to personal and spiritual development. They share stories of challenges in ordination and ministry, emphasizing vuln…
- Election Day Prayer
This episode of Means of Grace features a prayer service for peaceful elections held on Election Day. The service includes a message from Bishop Carter, scripture readings, and prayers from the Western North Carolina Conference staff, aimi…
- Hurricane Helene: A Call to Action Understanding UMC's Mission
Means of Grace hosts Jesse Ennis and John Yeager, joined by Reverends Sally Queen and Nathan Arledge, discuss the response to Hurricane Helene, emphasizing community connection, the role of the United Methodist Church in disaster relief, a…
- Environmental Stewardship: A Faith Perspective
This episode of Means of Grace examines environmental stewardship from a faith perspective, discussing its theological basis, the difference between stewardship and dominion, and the importance of humility. It highlights examples of church…
- The Quest for Historical John Wesley
This episode of Means of Grace examines the life and legacy of John Wesley, covering his early influences, the rise of Methodism, and its enduring impact on American Christianity. Hosts Jesse Ennis, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith, and John Yeager…
- Sports Theodicy: God's Role in the Game
The Means of Grace podcast episode "Sports Theodicy: God's Role in the Game" delves into the relationship between sports and faith. Hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith, joined by guest Nina Miller, discuss topics su…
- Interfaith Dialogues with Special Guest Christopher Harris
On Means of Grace, hosts Jesse Ennis, Jonathan LeMaster-Smith, and John Yeager, joined by Reverend Christopher Harris, explore ecumenism and the importance of unity within the Christian faith. They discuss finding common ground and collabo…
- Suspending the Rules: When and Why?
This episode of Means of Grace explores the concept of unspoken rules and their societal impact. Hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith discuss examples ranging from funeral etiquette to recent changes in the Methodist…
- Conference Season Recap
This episode of Means of Grace features hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith with guest Kim Ingram, discussing recent conference events and their impact on the United Methodist Church. Topics include the church's fut…
- The Tapestry
Jesse, John, and Jonathan discuss the importance of connection within the United Methodist Church. They explore historical roots, polity, ethos, and share personal experiences of feeling connected.
- 2024 Annual Conference Update from Lake Junaluska
Means of Grace hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith provide updates from the 2024 Annual Conference held at Lake Junaluska, NC.
- WNCC Annual Conference Preview with Bishop Ken Carter
This episode of Means of Grace previews the WNCC Annual Conference scheduled for June 20-23 at Lake Junaluska. Hosts Jesse Enniss, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith are joined by Bishop Ken Carter.
- General Conference Recap, A Brief History of the United Methodist Church, and a Look Into the Future of the UMC
Hosts Jesse Ennis, John Yeager, and Jonathan LeMaster-Smith recap the historic 2024 General Conference of the United Methodist Church. The episode also provides historical context, exploring the Methodist Church's roots and future directio…
- Spiritual Direction: Deepening a Relationship with God Through the Instruction of the Holy Spirit
Jesse Enniss and Kim Ingram speak with Donnell FitzJefferies, Kris Ford, and Debbie Allen about spiritual direction. They explain what it is, how to access it, and its value in enhancing one's relationship with God and fostering spiritual…
- General Conference 2024: What You Need to Know
Rev. Kim Ingram, Jennifer Davis, and Wanda Musgraves discuss essential details for the General Conference 2024 in Charlotte, NC, hosted by the Western North Carolina Conference.
- A Framework for Racial Healing
Reverend Dr. Bill White and Dr. Brian Tillman explore Martin Luther King Jr.'s enduring legacy and the current state of race relations, considering what MLK might envision for the future.
- Doing Justice Together
Rev. Dr. Stephanie Hand and Rev. Dr. Michael Beck discuss their new book, which provides a framework for churches to integrate racial equity, justice, and liberation into their core functions. The conversation is hosted by Luke Edwards.
- An Advent Conversation with Bishop Carter
Bishop Carter joined host Aimee Yeager for an Advent and Christmas message for the Western North Carolina Conference. This episode concludes the 2023 season of Means of Grace.
- A.I.'s Role in the Modern Church
On the Means of Grace podcast, Kim Ingram and Jesse Enniss, joined by guests Nathan Webb and Amy Rutledge Vaughan, discuss the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence tools in ministry. They explore how A.I. is impacting content creation…
- From Healing, to Hope, to Thriving - Zoe Empowers Rwanda
Zoe Empowers works with the Western North Carolina Conference to help children globally facing poverty. Their program addresses eight life areas to equip vulnerable children to overcome poverty independently.
- 30 Years of Project AGAPE
Means of Grace episode 30 Years of Project AGAPE discusses the 30-year history of the mutual aid program, a partnership serving Armenia. Interviews with leadership cover the program's history, the people it serves, and involvement opportun…
- Bonus Episode: Armenia Pilgrimage Reflections with Savannah
Rev. Savannah Glover shares reflections on her Armenia pilgrimage, including friendships formed, the hospitality of Project Agape Staff, and the trip's impact on her ministry.
- Bonus Episode: Armenia Pilgrimage Reflections with Britt
Britt Rogers reflects on her recent pilgrimage to Armenia with Brian Mateer. They explore the concept of a pilgrimage and discuss the beauty and culture of Armenia.