Portland's Biggest Challenge (and How the Church Can Respond)

Send us a textIn this festive and heartfelt year-end episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, Ahshuwah Hawthorne, Gabe Kolstad, and Pete Armstrong reflect on the highlights, challenges, and lessons of 2024. From powerful stories of evangelism and community impact to navigating personal growth and loss, this conversation offers inspiration and encouragement for believers everywhere.Highlights:Reflections on ministry wins and challenges.Exciting updates from Westside Church, Parklane Christian Reformed Church, and Brilliance Labs.The importance of prayer, storytelling, and building authentic community.A fun white elephant gift exchange story you won’t want to miss!Get Involved:Share your questions, feedback, or ideas for future episodes by emailing [email protected] with the team on YouTube comments or follow us on social media!Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring conversations!

Send us a textDiscover the inspiring journey of Love INC (Love In the Name of Christ) in this heartwarming episode. Join us as we speak with Matt Farlow, the Executive Director of Love INC East Multnomah County, and other leaders about mobilizing churches to serve communities, fostering relationships, and addressing needs beyond material resources. Explore how Love INC empowers churches to live out their faith, offering hope, dignity, and the love of Christ to those in need.Topics Covered:The unique challenges and opportunities of ministry in Portland and the Pacific Northwest.How Love INC unites churches across denominations to meet tangible and relational needs.iThe transformative impact of relational ministry and community development.nspiring stories of individuals served by Love INC and how the ministry creates sustainable solutions.Practical insights for pastors and leaders on how to engage their congregations in impactful service.Learn more about Love INC at www.loveinc.org.Enjoy the episode? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more inspiring stories and conversations!

Send us a textJoin us for a heartfelt conversation with Pastor Michael Lawrence of Hinson Baptist Church as he shares his inspiring journey from Washington, D.C., to Portland, Oregon. Discover how he embraced cultural differences, led a historic church, and developed innovative ministries in a city known for its spiritual apathy and progressive culture.This week we discuss:Michael’s unexpected call to pastor in PortlandAdapting to West Coast culture: challenges and surprisesThe importance of word-centered ministry in a post-Christian contextBuilding connections through a nonprofit coffee shop ministryLeadership development and raising the next generation of church leadersConnect with Pastor Michael: https://hinsonchurch.orgVisit the Eastside Coffee Bar on SE 20th & HawthorneDiscover more on The Gospel Coalition, 9Marks, and Simeon Trust

Send us a textWhat happens when a rock star surrenders to God’s call and finds a new purpose in Worship? Join Gabe Kolstad as he interviews Bart Hafeman, worship leader at Westside Community Church and former frontman of the hit band Hit Machine. In this powerful conversation, Bart shares his remarkable journey from the Portland music scene to leading others in worship. Discover how Bart’s deep love for music and people has shaped his unique approach to worship and tribe-building within the Church.Key topics include:Bart’s origin story in music, from garage bands to leading worshipHow God uses every season of life for His gloryBreaking barriers between the sacred and secularBuilding authentic relationships and cultivating team culture in ministryWhy true worship transforms hearts✨ Engage with Bart:Email: [email protected] out Bart’s music: Hit Machine EntertainmentExperience worship at Westside Community Church in Beaverton!Be inspired by Bart’s story and learn how you can break through your own barriers to live out your faith fully. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Send us a textWelcome to another episode of Jesus in the Upper Left! This week, Gabe Kolstad and Ahshuwah Hawthorne are joined by Tim Smith, a worship consultant and former worship pastor with decades of experience in ministry.In this episode, we dive deep into:The true definition of worshipLessons learned from Mars Hill ChurchTheological insights into music, liturgy, and Church gatheringsHow Churches can reclaim their local identityIf you’re passionate about faith, music, and creating meaningful church experiences, this episode is for you!👉 Connect with Tim Smith: movedbyglory.com

Send us a textIn this episode of Jesus in the Upper Left, we sit down with Hannah Glavor, an indie artist and worship leader, to explore how faith, creativity, and hope come together in powerful ways.🎶 Learn how Hannah’s journey—from worship leader to indie artist—has shaped her voice and mission.📖 Topics include:•Facing challenges like a brain tumor and its impact on her creativity•Balancing music ministry inside and outside the church•Leading with vulnerability and empowering others💬 What did you take away from this episode? Share in the comments below!🔗 Follow Hannah Glavor:•Website: HannahGlavor.com•Instagram: @hannahtheglavor🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations about faith and creativity!

Send us a textWhat is true worship, and how can we cultivate a deeper, more authentic experience in our churches? Join Ahshuwah Hawthorne and Andre as they discuss worship with Brian Winchester, pastor of Saving Grace Church and a former hip-hop artist. Brian shares his unique journey from the music industry to ministry, exploring the transformative power of the gospel and the importance of responding to God in a worthy manner.This episode delves into:Brian's Journey: From hip-hop artist to church planterDefining Worship: Responding to God's worthiness in a worthy wayCommon Pitfalls: Avoiding the pursuit of experience over encounterThe Role of the Worship Leader: Prioritizing character and servanthoodCultivating Authentic Worship: Practical tips for fostering a deeper connection with God in corporate gatheringsWhether you're a worship leader, a pastor, or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of worship, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others discover the true meaning of worship!

Send us a textWhat are the unique challenges and joys of planting a church in Portland, Oregon? Join Ahshuwah Hawthorne and Andre as they sit down with Simon Bardoni, a church planter with over seven years of experience in the city. Simon shares his personal journey, the milestones, and the unexpected turns that have shaped his ministry.In this episode, you'll discover:The Call to Portland: How Simon and his team ended up planting in the "Upper Left"Major Milestones: From finding a venue to navigating a pandemic, Simon shares key moments in his church plant's journeyChrist-centered, Spirit-empowered, Socially Responsible: Exploring the core values that drive Simon's ministryGlobal Connections: The impact of being part of a wider church networkChallenges and Encouragements: Honest reflections on the realities of church planting in PortlandWhether you're a seasoned pastor, an aspiring church planter, or simply curious about ministry in the Pacific Northwest, this episode offers valuable insights and encouragement. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to support church planting in Portland and beyond!

Send us a textIs the secular calendar eclipsing the Christian imagination? Join Pete Armstrong and Ahshuwah Hawthorne as they welcome Dr. Metzger, author of "Setting the Spiritual Clock," to explore the importance of reclaiming sacred time in a secular age. Dr. Metzger shares his insights on navigating the liturgical calendar, engaging in multi-faith dialogue, and fostering a vibrant Christian community in the Pacific Northwest.This episode explores:The Secular Eclipse: How cultural calendars can overshadow Christian rhythmsJesus the Liturgical Being: Discovering the biblical roots of liturgical practicesThe Power of the Liturgical Calendar: Its impact on spiritual formation and communityMulti-Faith Engagement: Building bridges with those outside the Christian faithAdvice for Church Leaders: Practical tips for navigating ministry in the Pacific NorthwestTune in for a thought-provoking conversation that will challenge and inspire you to reclaim sacred time and live with greater intentionality. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help others discover the richness of the Christian tradition!Dr. Metzger's book: https://www.amazon.com/Setting-Spiritual-Clock-Breaking-Through/dp/1725258706

Send us a textWhat lies at the heart of addiction? Join Pete Armstrong and Petr Shotropa as they delve into the complexities of addiction and recovery with licensed professional counselor, Rhys Passimio. Rhys shares his personal journey, professional insights, and the often-misunderstood aspects of addiction, particularly within the context of faith.In this episode, you'll discover:The root of addiction: Exploring the underlying pain and intimacy disordersActing in vs. acting out: Understanding the spectrum of addictive behaviorsThe role of fasting: How this spiritual discipline can aid in recoveryMisconceptions about sex addiction: Addressing common myths and harmful beliefsPartnering for healing: How pastors and counselors can work together to support those struggling with addictionTune in for a compassionate and insightful conversation that sheds light on the path to healing and wholeness. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video to help break the stigma around addiction and support those in recovery!