NorthWoods Church Matters

Ep 270 | The Upcoming SBC Annual Meeting

In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Bell, Bob Weeks, Ryan Moore, Matt Higgins, and Rachel Bland break down the upcoming Southern Baptist Convention Annual Meeting and explain why being part of the SBC matters for NorthWoods. They discuss the Cooperative Program, missions, church autonomy, the unique culture of the SBC, and what it's like to attend the convention in person. The conversation also explores one of the convention's most discussed issues: a proposed constitutional amendment regarding women serving in pastoral roles. The team shares a complementarian perspective, discusses areas of agreement and concern, and reflects on how churches can remain faithful to Scripture while encouraging every believer to use their God-given gifts for the Great Commission.

Ep 269 | Darin Garton's Retirement

After 45 years in ministry and nearly a decade serving at NorthWoods, Pastor Darin Garton announces his retirement from vocational ministry. In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters podcast, Pastor Bobby sits down with Darin to reflect on God's faithfulness through decades of ministry, church planting, discipleship, leadership, and the recent NorthWoods building project. Darin shares why now feels like the right season to step away, what he and Stacy are looking forward to in retirement, and how the Lord has guided their family through this decision. Bobby also shares personal encouragement and gratitude for Darin's friendship, wisdom, and faithful service to NorthWoods Church.

Ep 268 | Theological Education (Plus...Seminary at Northwoods?)

In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Bobby Pell sits down with Matt Higgins and Rachel Bland to talk about Southern Baptist seminaries, online learning, ministry preparation, and why theological education isn't just for pastors. Together, they unpack the differences between the six Southern Baptist seminaries, discuss their own educational journeys, and explore how seminary can strengthen everyday believers, not just vocational ministers. The conversation also introduces Northwoods' new partnership with New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, giving students the opportunity to earn accredited master's-level credits right here through NorthWoods. Whether you're considering ministry, wanting to grow deeper in your faith, or simply curious about theological education, this episode offers practical insight, encouragement, and a vision for lifelong discipleship.

Ep 267 | Answers about Roman Catholicism

In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with Pastor Darin Garton and Bob Weeks to continue the conversation on Roman Catholicism after a recent Gathering session sparked plenty of questions. The conversation explores questions surrounding the authority of the pope, the role of church tradition versus Scripture, the Apocrypha, praying to Mary, purgatory, indulgences, and whether a Catholic can truly be born again. Along the way, the gang shares personal experiences ministering to Catholics, discusses the emotional and cultural pull of Catholicism, and carefully distinguish between critiquing Catholic doctrine and condemning individual Catholics. Helpful resources: Desiring God on the Apocrypha [https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/what-is-the-apocrypha] Got Questions on Catholicism [https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-questions.html]

Ep 266 | Meet the Team: Emily Pfister & Kennedy Roos

In this episode of the NorthWoods Church Matters Podcast, Pastor Bobby Pell sits down with two new members of the NorthWoods team: Emily Pfister and Kennedy Roos. Get to know their stories, from growing up in the Evansville area to how each of them came to faith in Christ. Together, they talk about their new roles as Ministry Assistants, what excites them about serving at NorthWoods, and how they're helping behind the scenes to support everything NorthWoods.