Welcome to another uplifting episode of the Pulpit Perspectives Podcast. In this

episode, Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy stands with Pastor Trish Johnsen at her pulpit, the spirited

leader of Salem Chapel United Methodist Church in La Porte County. Pastor Trish, who

has been at Salem Chapel since July, shares her journey, challenges, joys, and the

incredible community that defines her church. From discussing her favorite hobbies to

the pivotal moments in her ministry, Pastor Trish provides a heartfelt glimpse into her life

and work. Whether it’s savoring fellowship meals or recharging in the woods, her stories

are both inspiring and relatable.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. The Joy of Community and Fellowship: Pastor Trish Johnson emphasizes the

vibrant and welcoming community at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church.

With special highlights on their fellowship time and the Retreads group, who

ensure everyone feels included—even catering to her gluten intolerance—Trish

underscores the importance of sharing meals and building relationships. This

sense of community fosters a nurturing environment, allowing members to feed

not just the body, but the soul too.

2. The Importance of Support Networks: In a candid conversation about who

cheers her on in her ministry, Trish discusses the invaluable support from her

family, especially her husband, and her close-knit circle of pastor friends. This

home court advantage, as referred to by Dr. Lundy, is vital for those in ministry.

Pastor Trish’s narrative demonstrates that encouragement and backing from

loved ones and fellow clergymen are crucial for sustainable and effective ministry

work.

3. Embracing Nature and Finding Sacred Spaces: Pastor Trish reveals her love

for the outdoors and how it serves as her sanctuary for recharging. Whether

hiking in the woods year-round or simply sitting in her car with the windows

down, the natural world provides a space for reflection and spiritual renewal. Her

favorite Bible verse, Psalm 121, and her love for a majestic maple tree in her

yard highlight the sacred connection she feels with nature and how it facilitates a

deeper connection with God.

Additional Resources:

Learn more about the North District clergy and their churches on the

North District Facebook Page

.

Discover more about the Indiana Conference and Fresh Expressions at

inumc.org

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Tune In Next Time: Join us for more inspiring stories and insightful discussions.

Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy continues to bring heartfelt interviews, focusing on the

dedicated clergy making a difference in their communities. Thank you for listening to the

Pulpit Perspectives Podcast. Stay encouraged and connected!

Host: Reverend Dr. Kent Lundy

Guest: Pastor Trish Johnsen – Follow her journey and stay inspired by the community

spirit at Salem Chapel United Methodist Church.

Pastor Trish Johnsen

Salem Chapel UMC

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In this heartwarming episode of Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, host Reverend Doctor

Kent Lundy stands with Reverend Tim Ahlemyer, the senior pastor of First United

Methodist Church in La Porte, Indiana, to delve into the joys, challenges, and profound

lessons of ministry. Ahlemyer, who is in his second year at First United Methodist, brings

a wealth of experience and reflection, having spent four decades in ministry.

The conversation kicks off with Ahlemyer sharing what brings him joy: seeing people

smile and engage in meaningful conversations. This simple yet profound observation

sets the tone for a discussion rich with heartfelt insights. Here are some of the key

takeaways from their dialogue:

1. Support Systems in Ministry: Ahlemyer emphasizes the importance of having a

cheer block in ministry. His wife, children, grandchildren, and even his late

father and mother play pivotal roles in cheering him on. This suggests that clergy

need a robust support system to thrive in their vocations, reflecting the idea that

ministry is not a solo endeavor but a communal journey.

2. Recharging through Solitude: For Ahlemyer, solitude is essential for spiritual

recharging. He speaks fondly of his prayer garden behind the parsonage and the

rejuvenating power of silence. In today’s noise-filled culture, this reminder to seek

quiet spaces for reflection and connection with God is invaluable.

3. Lessons from Life Experiences: One of the most compelling parts of the

discussion is when Ahlemyer shares the hard-earned lesson of truth-telling.

Growing up in a children’s home, he learned early on to rely on lies as a survival

mechanism. However, as an adult, he recognized the liberative power of brutal

honesty with oneself and others. This vulnerability offers a profound lesson on

the importance of authenticity in both personal development and ministry.

4. Sacredness of the Calling: Ahlemyer beautifully articulates the sacred nature of

the clergy calling. He wishes for his fellow clergy to feel the sacredness of their

vocation—a calling to be set aside for the blessing of the world. Recognizing this

can combat the despondency that often accompanies ministry, reminding clergy

of their profound impact.

5. Creative Thinking in Ministry: When asked who he would take axe throwing

from scripture, Ahlemyer’s choice of Esau is both unexpected and insightful. He

admires Esau’s authenticity and views him as a relatable, down-to-earth figure.

This creative thinking reflects the need for clergy to find relatable biblical figures

who can inspire and ground them.

Throughout the episode, Ahlemyer’s reflections are filled with wisdom drawn from years

of experience, making this a must-listen for anyone involved in ministry or seeking

deeper spiritual insights. Tune in to Pulpit Perspectives Podcast for an enriching

exploration of faith, community, and personal growth.

Rev. Tim Ahlemyer

LaPorte 1 st UMC

http://www.laportefumc.org/

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In this enriching episode of the Pulpit Perspectives Podcast, we are joined by Reverend

Melissa Englehart from Elkhart Dunlap United Methodist Church as she shares her

heartfelt journey and impactful ministry experiences. Here are three key takeaways from

our inspiring conversation:

1. Nurturing Involvement from a Young Age:

Reverend Melissa Englehart emphasizes the importance of involving children in the

daily operations of the church. She joyfully recounts instances where young members of

her congregation, from kindergartners to middle schoolers, take active roles such as

offering bearers, acolytes, liturgists, and ushers. This hands-on involvement empowers

the youth, instills a sense of responsibility, and ensures the continuity of faith and

dedication in the church community. Melissa’s approach not only fosters a nurturing

environment but also encourages the next generation to embrace their roles within the

church, creating a vibrant, interconnected community.

2. The Power of Support Systems:

A central theme in Melissa’s ministry is the significance of having a robust support

network. She shares her gratitude for the unwavering support from her congregation,

family, and friends, particularly those from seminary who continue to be a vital part of

her life through regular meet-ups and virtual check-ins. Melissa’s story is a powerful

reminder of how essential it is to cultivate and maintain strong relationships that can

provide encouragement and guidance. These bonds help sustain individuals through

challenging times, ensuring that no one has to navigate their ministry journey alone.

3. Living Out Your Calling with Faith and Love:

Melissa’s personal journey of answering her call to ministry, which began at the

age of 12, underscores a life led by faith and the willingness to follow God’s direction.

Her reflections on pivotal moments, such as her confirmation retreat and ordination

service, showcase the profound impact of listening to and embracing one’s divine

calling. Moreover, her legacy goals—centered on calling, hope, and love—speak to her

dedication to fostering a loving and hopeful environment within her church. Melissa aims

to leave a lasting impact by helping others discover their callings and by inspiring them

to live out their faith with love and hope, regardless of the inevitable changes and

challenges that may arise.

Join us for this uplifting conversation as Reverend Melissa Englehart shares her insights

and experiences, inspiring us to lead lives enriched with purpose, support, and divine

love.

Tune in to hear more about Reverend Melissa Englehart’s journey and the

transformative work happening at Elkhart Dunlap United Methodist Church. Listen,

reflect, and be encouraged!

Rev. Melissa Englehart

Dunlap UMC

https://elkhartdunlapumc.org/

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