13 • Pastoral Perspectives: Faith, Ministry, and Building Bridges with Nonprofits

January 31, 2024

WITH CO-HOSTS: HEREDES RIBEIRO & COLLIN HOKE

Collin and H sit down with Pastor Tim Miller and Dr. Andrew Larsen to talk about the integration of faith and ministry into effective nonprofit leadership and community building.

Episode Summary.

Celebrating the 300th episode of a podcast feels like a landmark achievement, and it's perfect timing to bring on podcasting peers and pastoral pals, Dr. Andrew Larson and Tim Miller, who join us to chat about the unique juggle of ministry and the microphone. We peel back the curtain on their Monday routines, post-Sunday fatigue, and the weekly pressures that pastors face in crafting meaningful messages for their congregations. As we sit down, sharing our own trials and triumphs, the episode becomes a testament to the power of shared stories in creating connections within our vocation.

Navigating sensitive topics can feel like a high-wire act, but Andrew and Tim embrace the challenge with a mix of sensitivity and humor. We discuss the importance of authenticity and relationship-building in our roles while also respecting confidentiality. We share the unexpected joys and heartfelt messages from listeners who find solace in our shared experiences, reinforcing that none of us has to navigate ministry alone.

Our conversation then takes a practical turn as we examine how churches can form meaningful partnerships with nonprofit organizations. We exchange tales of community impact, how to sidestep the aggressive tactics of certain nonprofits, and the merits of relational engagement. This episode serves as a hearty blend of advice, anecdotes, and affirmations, reminding all of us in ministry, or those working with ministries, how vital it is to serve with purpose, preserve our well-being, and lean into the support system that surrounds us.

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Chapters.

0:09 - Content, Commitment, and Ministry
11:30 - Building Relationships and Authenticity in Ministry
18:10 - Selecting Nonprofit Partners for Church Engagement
28:30 - Choosing Nonprofits and Avoiding Pushy Organizations
33:03 - Nonprofit Tips for Partnering With Churches
45:30 - Addressing Burnout in Ministry

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Resources and Info.

If you’d like to recommend or be a guest on the show, email us at podcast@verscreative.com

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About Tim and Andrew.

Timothy Miller is the Senior Pastor at Lakeview Church in Tarpon Springs, FL where he has been on staff for 14 years. He holds a degree in communications from the University of South Florida and a Master of Divinity from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Tim lives in Trinity Florida with his high school sweetheart Stephanie, their five children, and a golden retriever named Buzzby.

Andrew Larsen pastors Safety Harbor Community Church in his hometown of Safety Harbor, FL. The church is a block away from the elementary school where his wife Melissa teaches and two of his four sons go to school. Andrew earned a bachelors in Bible and History at Clearwater Christian College, a masters from Dallas Theological Seminary, and a doctorate in Ministry Leadership from Liberty University where he also teaches in the School of Divinity.

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