Unconventional Ministry

SAT-7: Meeting Middle East Youth Where They Are with Juliana Sfeir S5 EP#170

In this episode, Juliana Sfeir, Arabic Public Engagement Manager with the Middle East and North Africa's media ministry, SAT-7, shares her inspiring journey.

SAT-7 is a groundbreaking Middle East broadcast media ministry that has been transforming lives in the Middle East and North Africa for 28 years. Starting with a vision to create a new media model and narrative for the region, the ministry now offers an innovative, multilingual, video-on-demand platform, SAT-7 PLUS – the first of its kind in the region.

Please tune in to hear Juliana discuss SAT-7’s unique approach, their challenges, and how they’ve become a pioneering force, delivering hope, education, and faith-based content to millions.

Previous Episodes You Will Find Informative:

Episode #166 SAT-7 Ministry Strengthening Middle East Christianity with Rami Al Halaseh. This episode focuses on SAT-7, the leading Christian media brand in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Learn from Rami Al Halaseh, Executive Director of Arabic Channels and Digital Media, how SAT-7 has become a crucial spiritual lifeline for Christians in the region, many of whom are unable to attend physical churches. SAT-7 is a media-based ministry that provides faith-based programming to foster and sustain its viewers' spiritual lives.

Episode #147  Charting New Ministry Paths: MENA's Five Transformative Challenges with Dr. Terence Ascott. Dr. Ascott navigates through five pressing challenges confronting the region today and their profound impact on the Church and ministry. From escalated conflicts to restricted press freedom and limited education access to the deprivation of women's and religious rights, each issue presents a unique hurdle. However, Dr. Ascott unveils how SAT-7 is ingeniously addressing these challenges and fostering transformative change through innovative approaches.

 

Are You Missing Half of the Gospel? With Dr. Matt O’Reilly S5 EP#169

In this episode, Dr. Matt O'Reilly, author of Free to Be Holy and pastor of Christ Church Birmingham, reflects on his experiences as a church-going teenager who felt deeply frustrated with his Christian faith. Despite his active participation in church activities, he felt something essential was lacking.

He began to question whether there was more to Christianity than the rituals and teachings he had grown accustomed to. This led him on a journey of discovery, where he realized that he had only understood part of the Gospel. Something he feels many others in the American Church are also missing.

In the podcast, Dr. O'Reilly explains this missing part of the Gospel and how it can transform a believer's faith journey. He discusses how many Christians in America may find themselves in a similar position, attending church regularly but feeling disconnected from the full power and promise of the Gospel. Through his own experiences and insights, Dr. O'Reilly invites listeners to explore the deeper, often overlooked aspects of Christianity that can lead to a more fulfilling and vibrant spiritual life.

Visit www.theologyproject.online to learn more about his ministry.

Healing From Past Trauma Through God Stories with Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch S5 EP#168

In this episode, you will learn from the remarkable journey of Mischelle Saunders-Gottsch, Founder and CEO of Altered Stories. Mischelle is dedicated to helping Christian women across the globe heal from past trauma and brokenness through the power of faith-filled God stories.

In this episode, Mischelle shares her own transformative experience with a cult during her early childhood years. She opens up about how this traumatic event became a pivotal moment in her life. Through her personal testimony, Mischelle sheds light on the importance of embracing and sharing redemptive and transformational stories that showcase God’s grace and healing power.

Altered Stories is a platform that amplifies these powerful narratives, providing hope and encouragement to women everywhere. By listening to these stories, women are empowered to overcome their pasts and find strength in their faith. Join us as we explore Mischelle’s incredible journey and learn how Altered Stories, filled with inspiration, hope, and the undeniable power of God’s love, is making a profound impact in the lives of countless women.

Ending Intergenerational Incarceration Cycle with Mike Broyles S5 EP#168

Research shows that 70% of inmates' children will end up incarcerated. In this episode, guest Mike Broyles, Executive Director of Lifeline Global Ministries, shares what he has learned visiting over 90 prisons in America and around the world. In all the prisons Mike has visited, he has only met one male inmate who had a father who was a good role model at home. Crime follows from generation to generation.

Learn how Lifeline Global is working to end intergenerational incarceration. Learn how you can participate in programs like Malachi’s Dad and Hannah’s Gift and bring hope to incarcerated parents of minor children.

Mike Broyles is the author of a fascinating book called Only God: Transforming One Inmate and Family at a Time. 

Estate Planning: Overcoming Your Procrastination Together with Dr. Clay Perkins S5 EP#167

In this episode, the significance of estate planning is emphasized. Dr. Clay Perkins, the Executive Vice President of the Financial Planning Ministry, discusses the widespread neglect of this crucial task, noting that procrastination is the primary reason many people, including those within the Church, delay or avoid estate planning. He highlights that estate planning extends beyond mere paperwork; it represents an essential act of love, faith, and stewardship.

Learn 5 ways SAT-7 USA can help you plan your will and trust.

By planning their estates, individuals can ensure that their wishes are honored, their loved ones are cared for, and their faith values are upheld. Dr. Perkins urges listeners to overcome procrastination and recognize the profound impact of estate planning on their families and communities.

SAT-7 Ministry Strengthening Middle East Christianity with Rami Al Halaseh S5 EP#166

This episode focuses on SAT-7, the leading Christian media brand in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Learn from Rami Al Halaseh, Executive Director of Arabic Channels and Digital Media, how SAT-7 has become a crucial spiritual lifeline for Christians in the region, many of whom are unable to attend physical churches. SAT-7 is a media-based ministry that provides faith-based programming to foster and sustain its viewers' spiritual lives.

Rami elaborates on SAT-7's strategic role in bolstering the Christian presence in a region where many are seeking to emigrate to the West or Europe. Learn how the ministry is strengthening the very Christian existence of the Church in the Middle East. The SAT-7 ministry goes beyond television programs and social media content, working to meet needs holistically. It is one thing to tell people about the love of God; it's a whole different experience when SAT-7 goes out and builds bridges with the people on the ground.

Learn how to make an estate plan that stewards vital resources that strengthen the Middle East ministry.

 

A Previous Episode You Will Find Interesting:

Episode #147 Charting New Ministry Paths: MENA's Five Transformative Challenges  In this episode, we delve into the dynamic landscape of the Middle East and North Africa with Dr. Terence Ascott, the visionary Founder and President of SAT-7. In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Ascott navigates through five pressing challenges confronting the region today and their profound impact on the Church and ministry. From escalated conflicts to restricted press freedom and limited education access to the deprivation of women's and religious rights, each issue presents a unique hurdle. However, Dr. Ascott unveils how SAT-7, as a pioneering broadcast media ministry, is ingeniously addressing these challenges and fostering transformative change through innovative approaches.

In his gripping memoir Dare to Believe! Stories of Faith from the Middle East, Dr. Terrence Ascott unveils his personal odyssey amidst civil unrest, detentions, and the birth pains of SAT-7. Seamlessly interwoven with his narrative are the compelling stories of Middle Eastern Christians and the exponential growth of SAT-7 into a beacon of hope, broadcasting across Arabic, Turkish, and Persian regions. With each chapter, Dr. Ascott paints a vivid picture of resilience, faith, and the unwavering commitment to illuminate the darkest corners with the light of the Gospel.

SAT-7 emerges as a powerful force for change, shedding light in the darkest recesses of the region. Dr. Ascott passionately articulates how your partnership and support fuel SAT-7's mission to make God's love visible and confront the prevailing challenges in the region head-on. As listeners, you're invited to join hands in this transformative journey, discovering actionable ways to contribute towards a brighter future for the marginalized, the questioning, and the Isolated Believers. Together, we can ignite a movement of compassion, understanding, and profound change in the Middle East and beyond. Join us in making a difference today. Visit https://www.sat7usa.org/get-involved to learn more.

You can download a sample chapter of the book or receive a downloadable PDF and ePub version of the complete abridged book as a thank-you for a gift of any amount. Visit http://sat7usa.org/daretobelievebook.

 

Celebrating Milestones and Shifting Landscapes with Dr. Greg Carlson S5 EP#165

In this episode, we delve into how unwavering faith can navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving world. Dr. Greg Carlson shares insights on how Christian higher education is adapting to seismic cultural shifts while holding onto timeless principles. With his wife, Donna, celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary, Dr. Carlson discusses their commitment to lifelong learning and service, highlighting their support for Lifeline Global's mission to transform the lives of mothers and fathers within the prison system and Walk Thru The Bible's efforts to rekindle a global passion for Scripture. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation exploring the balance between tradition and transformation in enduring faith.

In celebration of Dr. Carlson and his wife Donna's 50 years of marriage, they are asking their friends and connections to celebrate with them by giving a gift to one or both of the two ministries they are passionate about:

• Lifeline Global (www.lifelineglobal.org) works to restore and equip incarcerated men and women to become godly parents so that the generational cycle of incarceration can be broken.
• Walk Thru The Bible (www.walkthru.org) exists to ignite passion for God’s Word around the world through high-quality biblical resources and transformational live events.

Unique Challenges Facing Holy Land Arab Churches with Rani Saba S5 EP#164

In this episode, learn about the Association of Baptist Churches in Israel, the region's largest network of evangelical churches. Rani Saba, the Executive Director, shares about the rich history, unique challenges, and impactful ministries of these churches nestled in the heart of biblical landscapes.

Discover how they navigate the complexities of its geographical and cultural context to foster spiritual growth and community resilience. Learn about their unwavering faith, perseverance, and the transformative impact of their ministries in a region steeped in profound historical and spiritual significance.

Embracing Trust Over Comfort with Cecil Taylor S5 EP#163

In this episode, we delve into an intriguing conversation with Cecil Taylor, a multiple award-winning author. Cecil founded Cecil Taylor Ministries, which is focused on teaching Christians how to live a seven-day practical faith. His latest book is From Comfort Zone to Trust Zone.

Cecil shares his lifelong struggle with the human desire for comfort, a challenge that resonates deeply with many Christians. This episode explores how Jesus calls us to transcend our comfort zones and embrace the profound trust zones where genuine faith and courage flourish. Cecil recounts his personal experiences and the inspiration behind his transformative book, offering insights and practical advice for anyone seeking to take bold steps in their spiritual journey. Whether battling to leave your comfort zone or striving to serve more faithfully, Cecil's wisdom and heartfelt stories will inspire you to trust more deeply and take meaningful risks for Christ's Kingdom.

 

Podcast Sponsor:

The Unconventional Ministry podcast is sponsored by SAT-7 USA, a Middle East and North Africa broadcast media ministry, sponsored this podcast. SAT-7 strengthens the Church, often serving as the only Christian connection for believers facing persecution. Learn more at www.sat7usa.org.  The SAT-7 ministry equips and strengthens the Church. For many believers in the Middle East and North Africa, SAT-7 is their sole connection to other Christians. Their countries are closed to the Gospel, and they face persecution because of their faith. Our Bible teaching, worship, talk shows, and other programs are helping Christians feel connected and grow in their faith. CLICK HERE to learn how you can be involved.

Protecting Healthy Children's Dance from Hypersexualization with Mary Bawden S5 EP#162

In this episode, the Founder and CEO of Dance Awareness, Mary Bawden, shines a light on the alarming trend of hypersexualization in children's dance. Over the last decade, a cultural shift has taken place, moving away from healthy, educational dance experiences towards a harmful landscape filled with adult costumes, sexually suggestive choreography, and music laden with inappropriate sexual themes. Join us as we delve into the factors driving this change and the impact it has on our children, their development, and society as a whole.

At Dance Awareness, they believe in empowering dance educators, parents, and concerned adults with the knowledge and tools they need to protect and preserve the integrity of healthy children's dance. In this episode, learn insightful and actionable strategies to combat the exploitation of children through hypersexualized dance practices. Learn what a positive, nurturing environment is that fosters the joy and creativity of dance, ensuring every child can express themselves in a safe and supportive space.