Unconventional Ministry

Pixels with Purpose: Animation as a Ministry Tool with Joshua Vennetti EP#203

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] talks with Joshua Vennetti, [https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-vennetti/] animator of Saul of Tarsus Film (www.sauloftarusfilm.com [https://www.sauloftarsusfilm.com/]), about how animation can powerfully serve the church and ministry. Joshua shares how his passion for stop-motion videos, sparked by a gift from his parents of LEGO at age 13, evolved into a creative tool for sharing biblical truth in fresh, engaging ways. Discover how animation captures attention, communicates complex ideas, and connects with younger audiences in today’s digital world. This conversation inspires ministry leaders to embrace creativity and see how God can use art, motion, and imagination to reach hearts with the gospel. Have you seen animation or visual storytelling used effectively in your church or ministry? How do you think animation could help your church connect better with younger audiences? Why or why not? If you could animate one Bible story, which would it be and why? A previous podcast episode: ----more---- Music, Marriage, Media, and Ministry: A Story of Faithful Impact [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/music-marriage-media-and-ministry-a-story-of-faithful-impact-with-rawad-and-marianne-daou-s5-ep196/]with Rawad and Marianne Daou EP#194 Rawad and Marianne Daou, a dynamic couple serving with SAT-7 ARABIC in Beirut, Lebanon. Marianne, a longtime media presence and the Viewer Support Manager, shares how her early start as a child TV presenter eventually led her to minister to couples and families through media. Rawad, a veteran TV director with 25 years of experience, offers insight into the creative and spiritual impact of SAT-7's broadcasts across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

Covering the Last Mile in Missions with Steve Russell of JAARS EP#202

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry Podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] talks with Steve Russell [https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-russell-b771545/], President of JAARS [https://www.jaars.org/] (Jungle Aviation and Relay Service). Learn how JAARS utilizes aviation, technology, and transportation to overcome barriers and share the gospel with remote, hard-to-reach communities. Steve shares how equipping and training missionaries to serve in their remote languages transforms the impact of Bible translation and ministry around the world. From rugged airstrips to isolated villages, hear inspiring stories of innovation, courage, and faith in action, showing how God’s Word continues to reach the ends of the earth through creative and unconventional means. Previous episode: Most people know they should have a will. However, more than half of Americans don’t. In this Unconventional Ministry episode, Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] tackles one of the most overlooked yet life-changing acts of stewardship – estate planning. Listen Now [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/estate-planning-so-important-yet-underutilized-with-dennis-wiens-s5-ep196/]

Equipping to Serve in a Changing World with Maryann Remsburg EP#201

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] speaks with Maryann Remsburg [https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-remsburg-life-coach-goal-setting-team-culture-adventure-adventurous-life-speaker-author-icf/], the Director of Development at Corbin University [https://www.corban.edu/]. Maryann shares her personal journey to Corban and how the university is equipping students to think biblically, lead courageously, and serve faithfully in an ever-changing world. Together, they explore Corban’s distinctive approach to higher education, where every classroom becomes a place of discipleship, every major a calling, and every graduate a potential world-changer. Listeners will hear stories of alumni living out their faith in diverse careers and global missions, as well as how athletics, innovative academic programs, and community outreach initiatives reinforce Corban’s mission to make a difference for Christ through education. Maryann also offers insight into how her work in development and donor relations helps sustain Corban’s vision for the future, building relationships that fuel scholarships, programs, and ministry impact around the world. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, alum, or friend of Christian education, this episode will inspire you to see how Corban University is shaping the next generation of Christ-centered leaders.

Sowing Seeds of Faith Globally with Dan Janzen EP#200

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry podcast, host Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] interviews Dan Janzen [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-janzen-74335412/], the executive director of the Fellowship of Christian Farmers International [https://www.fcfi.org/] (FCFI). They discuss FCFI's mission to encourage farm families and agricultural professionals to proclaim Jesus Christ, both domestically and internationally. Dan shares his background in agriculture and how he came to lead FCFI, as well as the organization's outreach efforts, including disaster relief, evangelism at agricultural events, and international projects. The conversation underscores the significance of community support among farmers and the distinct opportunities for ministry within the agricultural sector. Previous episode to learn from: * Giving Principles and Strategies for Multiplying Impact [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/maximize-kingdom-impact-invite-god-into-your-business/] with Dr. Jim Bakke EP#191 * Flipping the Script on Ministry ROI: [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/flipping-the-script-on-ministry-roi-the-middle-east-impact/] The Middle East Impact with Dennis Wiens EP#190 Learn more about the sponsor of this podcast, SAT-7 USA [https://www.sat7usa.org/], a Middle East and North Africa broadcast media ministry.

Innovating Ministry: Embracing Change for Impact with Jon Hirst S5 EP#199

In this episode of the Unconventional Ministry podcast, Dennis Wiens [https://www.linkedin.com/in/denniswiens/] and Jon Hirst [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonhirst/] (https://innovationinmission.com/) [https://innovationinmission.com/)] discuss the concept of innovation within ministry contexts. They explore the definition of innovation, the fear of change that many ministries face, and strategies for overcoming these barriers. Jon shares insights from his experience as a fractional innovation officer, highlighting inspiring projects that demonstrate the power of innovative thinking in addressing community needs. The conversation also explores the future of innovation, particularly in the context of AI integration, and how it can enhance the speed and effectiveness of ministry efforts. Ten takeaways to consider: * Innovation is not just about new technology; it's about creating value. * Fear of change is a natural human response. * Staying true to core values while innovating is possible. * Reputation, risk, and resources are major barriers to innovation. * Fractional innovation leadership makes innovation accessible for smaller ministries. * Innovative projects can address multiple community needs simultaneously. * AI is changing the landscape of innovation processes. * Creative thinking can lead to sustainable growth in ministries. * Innovation should align with God's mission and values. * AI advancements will accelerate the future of innovation. Enjoy several previous podcast episodes: Money Is Spiritual [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/money-is-spiritual-with-heather-day-s5-ep184/] - Heather Day EP#185 Giving Principles and Strategies for Multiplying Impact [https://sat7usa.podbean.com/e/maximize-kingdom-impact-invite-god-into-your-business/] - Dr. Jim Bakke EP#191