Full of Joy Podcast - Worship Stories: Why Do We Worship?

Full of Joy Podcast - Worship Stories: Evangelical Lutheran Worship (ELW)

Today we are paging through the Evangelical Lutheran Worship—perhaps you know it better as the ELW or the cranberry hymnal. Heather gives a quick layout of everything it includes: hymns, liturgies, psalms, prayers & services. She also gives an in-depth explanation of all 654 hymns…just kidding. Marnie and Heather share their favorite hymns, Marnie takes issue with bridges in church music, and Heather tells the fascinating and tragic story of the song “When Peace Like a River.” (Originally aired March 16, 2026)

Full of Joy Podcast - Bible Stories: Moses (Part 2)

This episode is day two of the story of Moses, building on what Pastor Eric talked about yesterday (if you haven’t listened to Part 1, we recommend checking out that episode first). Today, the story heads back to Egypt for the ten plagues (and Marnie’s issue with flies). Then, it continues to the Red Sea, God’s presence as a pillar of fire & clouds, wandering the wilderness for forty years, Mount Sinai, and the end of Moses’ life. Marnie and Eric conclude by connecting Moses to Jesus and the Gospels. (Originally aired April 14, 2026)

Full of Joy Podcast- Bible Stories: Moses (Part 1)

We have something exciting for this podcast: a two-part episode! Pastor Eric is in studio to really get into the “reeds” about the story of Moses, and there is so much included we are splitting it over two days! Today, Eric chats with Marnie about the first part of Moses’ life. The discussion includes the baby in the basket, being raised in the Egyptian royal court, fleeing to Midian, and wraps up with the burning bush. Don’t worry, Part 2 will be available tomorrow to finish the discussion. (Originally aired April 13, 2026)

Full of Joy Podcast - Faith Stories: Jason Ahrendt

Marnie Dahle Backer welcomes Spirit of Joy partner Jason Ahrendt to talk about his faith story. Jason grew up in Sioux Falls, was high school sweethearts with his wife, Heather, and has raised two college-aged children. He starts by remembering growing up in a house where faith was always important. Jason and Marnie dive deep into questions of faith while dealing with the death of his young nephew to cancer. He also opens up about how those challenges have led to the creation of a foundation to help families dealing with childhood cancer. (Originally aired March 2, 2026)

Full of Joy Podcast - Lutheran Stories: The Book of Concord

Today’s episode might sound like it belongs in a seminary class, but trust us, Pastor Eric helps explain what we are talking about! So, what exactly is The Book of Concord? Does it involve grapes? Airliners? A college in Moorhead? Not quite. To put in simply…The Book of Concord helps us answer what it means to be Lutheran. Written in 1580, it is the document that creates the foundation that all Lutheran churches can agree upon. The word “concord” literally means an agreement or harmony between people or groups. Have a listen…we promise you will come away with some new knowledge! (Originally aired February 23, 2026)