Hosted by Sara Hayden
Sometimes it can be difficult to imagine what different would look like. Our habits, routines, and traditions become so ingrained that envisioning something new becomes a challenge. But seeking out something new is precisely the point of the New Way podcast. An extension of the 1001 New Worshiping Communities initiative, the New Way podcast, led by Sara Hayden, is an honest conversation between pastors and church leaders exploring a new way of doing ministry.
These conversations take place within succinct 20- to 30-minute episodes, in which Sara invites a host of diverse guests to share the new way they’re going about ministry. From selling the church building, to going completely online, to embracing creation care, to thinking about sexuality and inclusion, the range of topics is broad. If you’re looking for inspiration, you’re sure to find something that resonates with you and your context.
What was most impressive about these interviews is the honesty with which Sara and her guests discuss their experiences. Sara asks good questions, and the guests offer thoughtful answers. They openly comment on the uncertainties they faced in making changes and are willing to admit they don’t have everything figured out. It’s a conversation of pastors talking to pastors, airing out the hard work of being brave in the ever-changing landscape of ministry.
In terms of audience, pastors, church leaders and lay folk invested in the welfare of the community will benefit the most from listening. The content in these episodes provides rich ground for brainstorming alternative ministerial options. Even if you’re not looking to launch something new, listening to the stories on New Way is an excellent opportunity to imagine what could be and ignite that creative spark that lives inside us all.
Listening to this podcast made me excited to be part of the Christian family. Hearing the stories of others who are trying out new avenues of ministry while also staying thoughtfully committed to the invitation of Jesus Christ gave me hope for the future. Their stories offer a vision of what the “church” could look like in the coming decades, and it got me motivated to be a part of whatever comes next.
