Sin

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss how to engage in the Psalms. They are unique and need to be approached in a way different from other scriptures. Are the Psalms poetry, songs, or prayers? How do we read them to get the most understanding? Why do we read them responsively in worship? Understanding the way to read the Psalms is the best way to understand the writer of the Psalms' intention.

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone speak with Josh Kenst, who is serving as a missionary/volunteer in Senegal, West Africa. Josh is part of the YAGM (Young Adults in Global Mission) initiative through the ELCA. His mission is for one year and he shares his experience in building relationships. As part of his welcome there, he was able to choose fabric for his clothing...a nod to his hometown colors! See the picture! Enjoy this discussion as we find out about this global mission.

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss the common phrase, "I'm spiritual but not religious." What does that actually mean? Discussion surrounds the cultural meaning of 'spiritual' compared to the Christian meaning of 'spiritual.' In addition, there is some interesting insight into what it means to be religious...it's not all about going to church! Listen to determine if you are Spiritual AND Religious after all!

Listening for specific things within a sermon can help you get the most out of the sermon message! In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone offer suggestions that may plant a seed that helps your understanding grow. We will discuss the purpose and intention of the sermon, how long a sermon should be, and how best to listen utilizing the acronym 'SEA'--Scripture, Engagement, and Action into our lives.
 
Intro/Outro Music by Myson Robles-Bruce

Life is stressful and we all need help getting through difficult times! In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss the importance of reaching out for guidance and support when needed.  Our special guest, Mark Heinbockel of Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, offers services available such as counseling, tutoring, groups and workshops.  Further, the importance of faith and spirituality in healing the whole person and family system is discussed.  Not in Pittsburgh area? Check out the  Solihten Institute, telehealth options, or contact your local church for resources.

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss those sayings that we say all the time that are not often used as the scripture intended or are not biblical at all! Does God close a door and open a window? Does everything happen for a reason? Does God have a plan for you and what is that plan? Is it true that nothing happens in God's world by mistake? Listen for Pastor Dan's least favorite saying (he gets passionate!) and why that is so! 

In this episode, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss "at-one-ment" in other words, atonement. God promises us relationship with Him and He is faithful in doing so. But, we keep messing up--it is in our human nature. How do we reconcile or make repentance for such a situation? We don't have to because God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to do it for us. That's the Good News!! That's how much he loves us! A lot of learnin' going on in this one! Thanks be to God!!

Just in time for Easter! Pastor Dan and Wendy Farone explain the background and backstory of Holy Week. Maundy Thursday through Easter Sunday are described so that full meaning and understanding can be experienced in worship. This is a podcast you will surely want to listen to before and during Holy Week. "He is Risen! He is Risen, indeed!" Pastor Dan will even explain what that call-response is all about!

This year our 8th grade confirmands reach their formal learning toward becoming official members of the church. They have participated in 3 full years of learning about the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament), the New Testament, and Lutheranism. During this discussion, Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone chat a bit with the 2023 confirmands: Lauren, Blake, Ethan, and Tanner. We talk about the importance of being part of the church and how they can become even more involved with the engagements and activities within church leadership and membership. Congratulations to you all!!!

In this episode Pastor Dan Smail and Wendy Farone discuss the Pastor's recent trip to Israel. A 13-hour trip to Tel Aviv, bus rides, security checks and travel in general seems to be worth the experience of visiting the Holy Land. Pastor Dan offers insight into what the people and landscape is like in modern day Jerusalem, Bethlehem, and the Sea of Galilee where the biblical story unfolds. Further, we discuss a visit to a Lutheran Church with international flare. We also play a little charades!