Empower and Equip

Josh Tracy: Childress, TX

Shelby Coble talks with Josh Tracy about his transition from living in the DFW Metroplex to small-town ministry. He expresses the difference in doing ministry in the two contexts by appreciating how his church community has come together for one another and by wanting to create a culture where everyone is welcome at the table. He wants to encourage his congregation, as well as everyone in the audience, that God has you where you’re at for a reason, use that for God’s glory and for His kingdom. Email: jtracyccoc@gmail.com [jtracyccoc@gmail.com]

BJ McMichael: McAlistar, OK

Shelby Coble talks with BJ McMichael, pulpit minister at the Main and Oklahoma Church of Christ in McAlester, Oklahoma, about building intentional relationships by strengthening existing pathways of connection and fostering goodwill. Through the imagery of “table fellowship,” BJ explores how curiosity, attentive listening, and being fully present shape his approach to ministry.

Tony Smith: Kalispell, MT

Shelby Coble speaks with Tony Smith about his life and ministry in Kalispell, Montana. Over 20 years of living in Montana, Tony has developed strong relationships with church members and nearby ministries in Kalispell. In addition, his work within the school system has allowed him to build meaningful connections with students and their parents, giving him opportunities to better understand and support the varied situations families face at home. Email: ynot4give@gmail.com [ynot4give@gmail.com]

Kevin Hooper: Midvale, ID

Shelby Coble and Kevin Hooper discuss how Kevin returned to his hometown and has spent fifteen years serving two congregations. In their conversation, Kevin shares how 17 churches in Washington County, Idaho, partner together through Love INC (Love In the Name of Christ) and highlights the key indicators he looks for when seeking a flourishing community. He also encourages ministers to identify the passions within their congregations and intentionally pursue ways to bring those passions to life. Email: kevinhooper45@gmail.com [kevinhooper45@gmail.com]

Shawn Jones: Newberg, OR

Shelby Coble talks with Shawn Jones about his calling into ministry during his college years and the journey that calling has taken him on. Shawn now serves as the Northwest Regional Director for the Empower and Equip Initiative in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Drawing on a lifetime of ministry experience, he shares how he guides, supports, and equips ministers and their families serving in rural communities and small towns throughout the Pacific Northwest.