Videos and Podcasts

Looking for content for your congregation that will inspire, inform, or educate? The Free Methodist Church in Southern California has an active group of content producers creating podcasts and videos weekly. Make sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for updates.

Home > Videos

The Diversity of Unity: A Journey Through the River System of God’s Church
The Diversity of Unity: A Journey Through the River System of God’s Church

Show NotesIn this episode of “Anchored & Reaching,” host Kevin Mannoia wraps up the current series, “The Diversity of Unity,” which explores how unity in the diverse body of Christ strengthens our faith and impact. Using the metaphor of a river system, Kevin illustrates the various tributaries representing different Christian traditions, each contributing uniquely to the kingdom of God. The series highlighted leaders from different denominations, offering insights into their unique practices and beliefs while underscoring the common commitment to Christ, Scripture, and kingdom-building. The discussion emphasizes that understanding and embracing this diversity strengthens our identity in Christ, enabling us to engage more effectively with the world.Key TakeawaysUnity in diversity is foundational to the Christian church, mirroring the unity and diversity within the Trinity.Different Christian traditions, or “tributaries,” enrich the collective mission of the church, despite varying practices and theological nuances.Embracing diversity within the body of Christ allows for a more profound and impactful engagement with cultural and societal issues.Understanding and appreciating the diversity of Christian traditions fosters unity, which, in turn, strengthens our witness to the world.Helpful Bible ReferencesJohn 17:20-21: Jesus prays for unity among believers, reflecting the episode’s theme of unity in diversity.1 Corinthians 12:12-27: Paul’s description of the church as one body with many parts illustrates the episode’s focus on the diverse yet unified nature of the church.KeywordsUnity, Diversity, Christian Traditions, River System, Engagement, Church, Faith, Scripture, Kingdom of GodHelpful LinksKevin’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Are Catholics Christians? – w/ Michael Donaldson
The Diversity of Unity: Are Catholics Christians? – w/ Michael Donaldson

In this episode of “Anchored & Reaching,” host Kevin Mannoia engages in a conversation with Michael Donaldson, senior director for the Office of Life, Justice and Peace, Archdiocese of Los Angeles, about the common misconceptions surrounding Catholicism and Christianity. They discuss various aspects of the Catholic faith, clarifying common misunderstandings and highlighting the core Christian beliefs that Catholics and Protestants share. Through a respectful dialogue, they explore topics such as the veneration of Mary and the saints, the significance of confession, the symbolism of incense in worship, and the role of sacraments in expressing and reaffirming one’s faith in Christ.Key TakeawaysClarifying Catholic Beliefs: Understanding the Catholic perspective on Mary, the saints, and sacraments, emphasizing that Catholics do not worship Mary or the saints but honor them as role models of faith.Symbolism in Worship: Exploring the meaning behind the use of incense in Catholic worship as a symbol of prayers rising to heaven and creating a sacred space.Confession and Intercession: Discussing the role of confession in Catholicism, where the priest acts as a vessel for God’s forgiveness, and the concept of saints interceding on behalf of believers.Daily Affirmation of Faith: Highlighting the Catholic practice of daily affirming faith in Christ, especially through the Eucharist, reinforcing the idea that conversion and salvation are ongoing processes.Helpful Bible ReferencesHebrews 12:1: The “cloud of witnesses” representing the communion of saints.Luke 1:38: Mary’s example of faith and submission to God’s will.James 5:16: The importance of confessing sins to one another.KeywordsUnity, Diversity, Catholicism, Christianity, Faith, Sacraments, Mary, Saints, Confession, Eucharist, WorshipHelpful LinksKevin’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com Office of Life, Justice, and Peace, Archdiocese of Los Angeles: https://lifejusticeandpeace.lacatholics.org/ One Life L.A.: https://www.onelifela.org/ By Your Side, Los Angeles: https://www.byyoursidela.org/ About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Can Calvinists and Others Be Friends? – w/ Rev. Randall Discher
The Diversity of Unity: Can Calvinists and Others Be Friends? – w/ Rev. Randall Discher

In this episode, Kevin Mannoia engages with Pastor Randy Discher about whether adherents of Calvinism can maintain genuine friendships with those of differing theological perspectives. They explore the Calvinist system, its five pillars (TULIP), and how these doctrines might impact relationships. They emphasize the importance of relationship over doctrine, the diversity within the evangelical free church, and the practice of agreeing to disagree to maintain unity in diversity.Key TakeawaysThe Calvinist belief system, centered around the TULIP acronym, can create barriers in friendships due to its integrated and definitive nature.Friendships across theological lines are possible through mutual respect, understanding, and focusing on relational aspects over propositional sets.The “significance of silence” in the Free Church allows room for varying beliefs, fostering an environment where different theological views can coexist.Helpful Bible ReferencesRomans 3:23 – Discusses total depravity, a key component of Calvinist doctrine.Ephesians 1:4-5 – Pertains to unconditional election and predestination.John 6:44 – Ties into irresistible grace and God’s role in salvation.KeywordsCalvinism, TULIP, evangelical free church, unity in diversity, theological friendship, predestination, total depravityHelpful LinksKevin’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/ Chosen But Free: A Balanced View of God’s Sovereignty and Free Will, by Norman L. Geisler: https://www.amazon.com/Chosen-But-Free-Balanced-Sovereignty-dp-0764208446/dp/0764208446/ About Anchored & Reaching”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Is the Black Church Cultural? – w/ Rev John Cager
The Diversity of Unity: Is the Black Church Cultural? – w/ Rev John Cager

In this episode, Kevin Mannoia interviews Rev. John Cager, the presiding elder of the Midwest North District in the AME Church. Rev. Cager shares the history and uniqueness of the Black Church, which was founded due to racial segregation. He explains that the Black Church became a place of self-actualization for African Americans who faced oppression and discrimination in society. The church served not only as a place of worship but also as a center for education, communication, and acceptance. Rev. Cager also discusses the influence of the Holiness Movement on the Black Church, which led to more lively and expressive worship styles. He emphasizes the importance of the church empowering people and meeting their needs beyond just providing a place to shout and celebrate.Key TakeawaysThe Black Church was founded due to racial segregation and discrimination.The church became a place of self-actualization for African Americans who faced oppression in society.The Black Church served as a center for education, communication, and acceptance within the community.The Holiness Movement influenced the lively and expressive worship styles in the Black Church.The church must continue to empower people and meet their needs beyond just providing a place for celebration.Helpful Bible ReferencesGalatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”Acts 2:1-47 – Demonstrates the unity and diversity of the early church, reflecting the inclusive nature of the Black Church.1 Corinthians 12:12-27 – The church as one body with many diverse parts, all equally important and necessary.KeywordsBlack Church, AME Church, racial segregation, cultural expression, Holiness Movement, self-actualization, worship, diversity, unityLinks and ResourcesKevin Mannoia’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a weekly podcast for those eager to explore God’s ongoing story and find their place in it. Host Kevin Mannoia engages in thought-provoking conversations, offering practical insights and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders. The podcast aims to inspire listeners to live dynamically, rooted in faith while actively engaging with the world.

Email: [email protected] Website: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Is Peace Really Possible – w/ Bishop Heather Beaty
The Diversity of Unity: Is Peace Really Possible – w/ Bishop Heather Beaty

In this episode, host Kevin Mannoia interviews Heather Beaty, Bishop of the Susquehanna Conference, Brethren in Christ Church U.S. They discuss the origins and beliefs of this 250-year-old denomination, including their Anabaptist heritage, emphasis on community discernment, and ordination of women. A core value for the Brethren in Christ is pursuing peace, which Bishop Beaty explains encompasses promoting forgiveness, reconciliation, and nonviolent conflict resolution that translates to a conscientious objector position regarding military service as well as respecting those of differing convictions. Overall, the conversation highlights the beauty of diversity within the unity of the body of Christ.Key TakeawaysUnity in the church necessitates embracing diversity.The Brethren in Christ Church advocates for peace, community engagement, and reconciliation.Historical influences of the church include Anabaptism, Pietism, and Wesleyanism.The church practices believers’ baptism and values non-violent conflict resolution.Helpful Bible ReferencesRomans 12:18 – Encourages living at peace with everyone, reflecting the church’s commitment to reconciliation.Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers,” underlining the church’s pursuit of peace.Ephesians 4:3 – Emphasizes maintaining unity through the bond of peace.KeywordsBrethren in Christ, Anabaptism, Pietism, Wesleyanism, pacifism, believers’ baptism, conscientious objectors, peacemakers, women leaders, peace church, unity, diversity, reconciliation.Links and ResourcesKevin Mannoia’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a weekly podcast for those eager to explore God’s ongoing story and find their place in it. Host Kevin Mannoia engages in thought-provoking conversations, offering practical insights and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders. The podcast aims to inspire listeners to live dynamically, rooted in faith while actively engaging with the world.

Email: [email protected] Website: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Is Holiness Really Legalistic? – w/ Rev. Dr. Carla Sunberg
The Diversity of Unity: Is Holiness Really Legalistic? – w/ Rev. Dr. Carla Sunberg

Rev. Dr. Carla Sunberg, General Superintendent, Church of the Nazarene, discusses common misconceptions around the Wesleyan view of holiness, tracing the roots of the holiness movement to the transformational work of the Holy Spirit in followers’ lives. Over time, later generations focused too much on outward actions rather than the Spirit’s inner sanctifying work. She points out that discipleship helps avoid legalism. This episode unpacks the biblical basis for living a life that is both deeply rooted in personal holiness and actively engaged in promoting social justice. Listen as we explore practical ways to embody these dual commitments in our communities and beyond.Key TakeawaysUnderstanding the biblical call to holiness and social justice.Strategies for integrating faith into action within one’s community.Understanding other traditions gives richer insight into holiness.Helpful Bible ReferencesMicah 6:8 – Emphasizing the requirement to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God.James 2:14-26 – Highlighting the inseparable nature of faith and deeds.Galatians 5:22-23 – The fruit of the SpiritHebrews 12:14 – Pursuing holinessKeywordsHoliness, Wesleyan theology, Sanctification, Discipleship, Holy Spirit, Social Justice, Faith in Action, Biblical WisdomLinks and ResourcesKevin Mannoia’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/Holiness Today Magazine: https://holinesstoday.org/index.php/Holiness Today Podcast: https://holinesstoday.podbean.com/Way, Truth, Life: Discipleship as a Journey of Grace, by Dr. David Busic: ​​https://www.amazon.com/Way-Truth-Life-Discipleship-Journey/dp/0834139693 Reflecting the Image, by Dr. Carla Sunberg: https://www.amazon.com/Reflecting-Image-Mirror-Christ-World/dp/0834135272/Teach Us to Pray, by Dr. Carla Sunberg: https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Us-Pray-Learn-Scripture/dp/0834141787/Dr. Carla Sunberg’s blog: https://reflectingtheimage.blogspot.com/ About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Is There Life in the Mainlines – w/ Bishop Todd Hunter
The Diversity of Unity: Is There Life in the Mainlines – w/ Bishop Todd Hunter

The Rt. Rev. Dr. Todd Hunter describes his journey from leading the Vineyard movement to becoming a bishop in the Anglican Church. He traces the Anglican influence on the Vineyard movement and evangelical churches more broadly through figures like John Stott and N.T. Wright. Hunter explores common misconceptions about mainline denominations, explaining that while there has been theological drift, mainline churches still contain devoted followers of Jesus. He observes a growing hunger amongst young Christians for historical groundedness leading them to traditions like Anglicanism, but cautions against overly formal or inaccessible liturgy. Hunter advocates doing liturgy in the “language of the people” to make it warm and welcoming while retaining historic structure.Key TakeawaysAnglicanism has deeply influenced evangelical figures and churches, from John Wimber to Alpha to many borrowing elements of the Book of Common PrayerMainline Protestant churches have declined but still contain millions of sincere, devoted ChristiansYounger generations are rediscovering groundedness, history, and liturgy amidst a trend of faith deconstructionLiturgy is inescapable; the key is making historically structured liturgy engaging and accessibleHelpful Bible ReferencesMatthew 6:9-13 (The Lord’s Prayer as a model for structured, yet deeply personal prayer)Luke 1:38 – “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Mary’s humble, obedient faith)

KeywordsAnglican Church, liturgy, mainline denominations, Vineyard Church, Alpha, Book of Common Prayer, deconstruction, Church of England, traditionAbout Anchored & Reaching”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.

Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

Kevin’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com/

The Diversity of Unity: Is the SDA a Cult – with Dr. Timothy Gillespie
The Diversity of Unity: Is the SDA a Cult – with Dr. Timothy Gillespie

In this episode of “Anchored & Reaching,” Kevin Mannoia dives into the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church’s beliefs and history with Dr. Timothy Gillespie, Dmin, Lead Pastor, Crosswalk Redlands and Teaching Pastor, Crosswalk Global Network of Churches. They discuss the SDA’s origins in the Millerite movement and the Great Disappointment, the denomination’s development including its health and educational work, and address misconceptions labeling it as a cult. Gillespie emphasizes the SDA’s commitment to scripture, education, and the importance of understanding the denomination within the broader Christian community. The discussion also covers the Adventist emphasis on the Sabbath and how it shapes their identity and perception by others in the Christian faith.Key TakeawaysThe SDA Church’s foundation on the Millerite movement and the Great Disappointment.The role of Ellen White and her contributions to SDA theology and practice.The denomination’s extensive work in health and education as expressions of their faith.Challenges and misconceptions faced by the SDA Church, including being labeled as a cult.The significance of the Sabbath in SDA belief and practice, and its impact on the denomination’s relationship with the wider Christian community.Helpful Bible ReferencesHebrews 4:9-10 – Rest in Christ as the Sabbath rest.Revelation 14:12 – The patience of the saints, keeping the commandments of God and faith in Jesus.2 Peter 1:20-21 – Understanding prophecy and scripture.KeywordsSeventh-day Adventist, SDA, Ellen White, Great Disappointment, Sabbath, cult misconceptions, Christian unity, health ministry, educationAbout Anchored & Reaching”Anchored & Reaching” is a thought-provoking weekly podcast designed for curious Christians who aspire to impact the world while remaining deeply rooted in their faith. Hosted by Kevin Mannoia, each episode features engaging conversations, practical insights, and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders who embody the dual values of being anchored in Christ and actively reaching out to the world. Join Kevin every week as he encourages you to live a dynamic Christian life, grounded in biblical truth and fueled by a passion for positive change.Email: [email protected]: https://anchoredandreaching.com

The Diversity of Unity: Lessons from a Surgeon, pt. 2 – w/ Dr. Kristyn Mannoia
The Diversity of Unity: Lessons from a Surgeon, pt. 2 – w/ Dr. Kristyn Mannoia

In this episode of “Anchored & Reaching,” host Kevin Mannoia engages in a captivating discussion with his daughter, Dr. Kristyn Mannoia, a vascular surgeon. This episode is a continuation from last week and delves into the intriguing similarities between the vascular system and the Church. They discuss how the health and dysfunction of the vascular system provide profound insights into the functioning of the Church. Topics range from the flexibility of the aorta representing leadership adaptability to capillary blockages symbolizing the issues in smaller church communities. The conversation also covers the importance of staying mission-focused and the dangers of stagnation, both in the body and the Church.

Kevin’s website: https://kevinmannoia.com

Key TakeawaysChurch as a Vascular System: The Church, like the vascular system, relies on diversity and unity for health and functionality.Leadership Adaptability: Just as the aorta must remain flexible to support the body, church leadership must adapt to effectively guide their congregations.Risks of Stagnation: Stagnancy can lead to dysfunction in both the body and the Church, highlighting the need for continuous movement and growth.Diversity in Function: Different parts of the Church, akin to various parts of the vascular system, play unique roles in maintaining overall health and reaching their mission.Responding to Dysfunction: Addressing issues in the Church requires understanding the root cause and adapting strategies for healing and restoration.Helpful Bible References1 Corinthians 12:12-27: Illustrates the Church as one body with many parts, emphasizing diversity and unity.Ezekiel 47: Describes a flowing river, symbolizing life and movement, contrasting with stagnation.

KeywordsChurch Health, Leadership Adaptability, Unity in Diversity, Spiritual Well-being, Stagnation in Church, Mission-focused, Body of Christ.About the Podcast”Anchored & Reaching” is a weekly podcast for those eager to explore God’s ongoing story and find their place in it. Host Kevin Mannoia engages in thought-provoking conversations, offering practical insights and diverse perspectives from Christian leaders. The podcast aims to inspire listeners to live dynamically, rooted in faith while actively engaging with the world.

Email: [email protected] Website: https://anchoredandreaching.com