Canadian Church Leader's Podcast

In this episode, Jason sits down with long-time pastor, professor, and marketplace theologian R. Paul Stevens to explore the sacredness of daily work. Paul’s ministry journey spans decades, from student ministry in Halifax to pastoring in Vancouver, teaching at Regent College, and even a mid-career stint as a carpenter. Paul unpacks the heartbeat behind his conviction that every follower of Jesus is in full-time ministry and that whatever your vocation, be it a pastor, a police officer, or a mother, your work matters to God. In this conversation Paul shares about: How Ephesians 4 set helped him come to realize that all Christians are in “full-time ministry,” The danger of dualism among our congregations and the importance of reclaiming whole-life, integrated discipleship,How pastors can empower their congregations for Monday-to-Saturday faithfulness, A story of meeting a young seeker on public transit and the unfolding of their year-long discipleship journey.Paul is thoughtful and intentional, bringing over 5

In this episode, Jason sits down with Dustin Funk, Lead Pastor of Oasis Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dustin shares his journey from encountering God at summer camp as a teenager, to stepping into leadership at a small Italian-speaking church, to guiding that same church through a remarkable season of cultural transition and growth. Dustin reflects on the lessons he’s learned over 27 years in pastoral ministry, how to lead through change, how to apologize well, and how to stay grounded in the faithful work of local church leadership. He talks candidly about what it was like to preach through an interpreter in an ethnic church context, how his church embraced a portable season before building a permanent home, and how he has come to embrace annual rhythms of rest. In this conversation Dustin shares about: How a camp experience shaped Dustin’s call to ministry,Preaching in a language he didn’t speak,The transformation of Oasis Church from an ethnic congregation to a multi-generational community,The highs and lo

In today’s conversation Preston Pouteaux shares what it means to be a tenderhearted pastor in a fast-paced world. Speaking from Chestermere, Alberta, Preston invites us into a vision of pastoring that’s slow, rooted, and profoundly local. From RCMP ride-alongs to keeping bees and loving neighbours, Preston offers a poetic yet practical vision of what it means to love and serve a place and its people. In this conversation Preston shares about: How pastoral imagination is formed,How curiosity and inquiry is a needed pastoral posture, Riding along with RCMP officers at night as a Chaplain,Beekeeping and the theology of pollinators, and Why presence, more than expertise, is a pastor’s most powerful gift.This episode is for any pastor who is seeking to better understand their context and to serve their people well. You’ll be reminded that gentleness is not weakness, and that being embedded in your local community might be the most courageous thing you can do.Show NotesPreston’s Book: The Bees of Rainbow Falls: Fin

What does it look like to stay tender and human as a pastor, even while holding the weight of others’ pain? In this rich and deeply practical conversation, Steve Cuss shares wisdom from decades of ministry—including his years as a hospital chaplain, a lead pastor, and now, a trusted voice equipping leaders around the world in managing leadership anxiety.Steve reflects on transitioning out of senior leadership, the gift of simply being a congregant, and how to stay present in rooms thick with grief and unspoken pressure. With vulnerability and humour, he unpacks how pastors can become aware of their own coping mechanisms, grow in emotional health, and shift from reacting to reflecting.Whether you’re navigating your own expectations, dealing with system-wide stress, or walking with people through deep loss, this conversation is packed with soul-forming insight.In today’s episode:Lessons from chaplaincy on presence, restraint, and incarnational ministryHow anxiety circulates in church systems (and how to disrupt

In this special episode of The Pastorate Podcast, we’re doing something a little different. Rather than one long-form conversation, you'll hear stories from three Canadian lead pastors. Representing the suburbs of BC, the heart of Quebec, and a small coastal town on the Pacific Ocean, these pastors—Joe Jung, Ben Carbone, and Jaz Ghag—open up about calling, family, leadership, and the unique challenges of ministry in their contexts. Each story offers encouragement for pastors navigating their own ministry in a Canadian context.This episode serves as a reminder that you’re not alone in this work. God is moving across Canada and here is a glimpse into what he is doing. In this episode:Joe Jung on vocational shift, obedience to God’s call, and pastoring alongside his familyBen Carbone on succession, the danger of comparison, and loving the people before the visionJaz Ghag on coming to faith from a Sikh background and the cost of following JesusGuest NotesJoe Jung (Town & Field, Langley) Ben Carbone (MCI C

In this episode, Jason sits down with Reward Sibanda, a pastor, speaker, and writer, a leading voice on fasting and a Pastor at Saddleback Church. Reward is known for his contagious joy, his deep love for the church, and his ability to bridge cultural gaps in ministry.In this conversation, Jason and Reward explore:How different cultural perspectives shape our understanding of church, community, and discipleship.The tension around megachurches and why large-scale ministry can still be redeemed for kingdom expansion.The recent Return Gathering at Saddleback and signs of revival across the global church.The spiritual, emotional, and physical benefits of fasting—and why this ancient discipline is crucial for leaders today.No matter your context, our hope is you would be strengthened and encouraged by this conversation today.BiographyReward Sibanda is a dynamic speaker, writer, pastor at Saddleback Church, and the Senior Director of National Church Engagement at World Vision, the world's largest Christian huma

In this episode of The Pastorate, Jason sits down with Tyler Staton, lead pastor of Bridgetown Church and author of The Familiar Stranger, to explore how God works in seasons of suffering and renewal. Tyler shares candidly on how deep pain has shaped his understanding of faith, ministry, and the presence of God in everyday life.Tyler is known for his deep love of prayer, his thoughtful teaching, and his passion for seeing people encounter the living God. In this conversation Tyler and Jason cover these themes, Tyler’s experiences of walking through suffering—both in his family and his own health—and how those experiences have shaped his faith and ministry. Inviting others into the story of God in preaching in order to provide them a context for their pain.Cultivating a deeper desire to encounter the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit every day.Tyler’s new book, The Familiar Stranger.No matter where you are or what season you’re walking through, our prayer is that this conversation would strengthen your he

Pastoring in rural Canada comes with unique challenges and opportunities—navigating leadership transitions, bilingual ministry, and the call to raise up the next generation of leaders. That’s why we need pastors who commit to remaining faithful over decades, seeking God’s guidance through seasons of change.In this episode we’re joined by Claude Lainey, lead pastor of Gospel Mission Church in Winkler, Manitoba, to hear his story of moving from Northern Ontario to Manitoba and the lessons he’s learned along the way.In this conversation, Claude shares: How his journey into bilingual ministry shaped his leadership and heart for the Church. The challenges and rewards of pastoring in rural Canada. The role of humility and perseverance in navigating church transitions. Why mentorship and discipleship are more critical than ever for the next generation of pastors.For those leading in small towns or large cities alike, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder to stay faithful to God’s calling—no ma

Our world is changing at a rapid pace, and for many, it’s hard to make sense of it all—let alone carry the weight of shifting expectations and uncertainty. That’s why we’re grateful for voices like Mark’s—leaders who cut through the noise with a prophetic edge, distill complex cultural trends, and speak to the Church with a non-anxious presence.Today, we’re joined by Mark Sayers—pastor, author, and cultural commentator—known for his sharp insights into secularism, leadership, and the Church’s evolving role in a rapidly changing world.In this conversation, Mark shares:The personal and pastoral challenges he has faced, including his wife Trudy’s battle with cancer and how it has reshaped his leadership and faith.What it means to remain faithful over decades of ministry and how suffering forms resilience.Why secularism is weakening and the new spiritual openness emerging globally.The Church’s role in navigating political, economic, and social shifts in the years ahead.Platforms to Pillars, Mark’s upcoming book t

Preaching with authenticity is no easy task, but for Megan, authenticity is the only gear she knows. The question remains—how do we craft honest sermons and let the message impact our own lives first? Megan is a pastor, speaker, and author joining us from Lakewood, California. She serves as the teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in Illinois and leads a women’s Bible study at Arbor Road Church in Long Beach, California. Whether preaching, leading, or writing her latest book, Megan brings a refreshing honesty that resonates deeply and inspires many. In today’s conversation, you’ll hear about: - How joy, longing, and sorrow intertwine to deepen hope and trust in God - Two practical prayer rhythms Megan has developed to foster intimacy with Jesus - What it looks like to preach with integrity while wrestling with the reality of mixed motives - The heart behind her new book, Relaxed Megan is known for sharing with energy, joy, and sincerity—so we hope this conversation encourages you today. Biography

It’s a New Year, and we’re thrilled to welcome you back to The Pastorate. As we step into 2025, we’re continuing our mission of creating meaningful conversations to equip and encourage pastors, starting with an episode we pray will strengthen both your hands and your heart for the work ahead. Our guest today is Andy Moore, Pastor of Coastline Church in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia. With years of ministry experience and a heartfelt dedication to developing leaders, Andy offers a perspective both profound and practical. This in-person conversation, recorded in Andy’s home, is one we’re excited to share with you. Andy shares about: How God brought redemption through seasons of deep pain, transforming his life and ministry Insights into the rich, 101-year history of Coastline Church and the privilege and challenge of leading in a context with such a legacy His passion for developing young pastors and the intentional steps he’s taken to create an environment where emerging leaders thrive He also

As we close out 2024, we’re excited to bring you a special episode to end the year. Last year, we began a tradition of hosting a conversation with Darrell Johnson near the end of each year, and it’s quickly become a meaningful rhythm for this podcast—a chance to sit down and reflect on life and ministry. Darrell has been preaching, teaching, and pastoring for over 50 years, with a ministry journey that has taken him from the Philippines to the United States and, of course, here in Canada. He currently serves as part of the Teaching and Pastoral Team at The Way Church in Vancouver, BC, and is the author of several impactful books, including Discipleship on the Edge, Ephesians: The Wonder and Walk of Being Alive in Christ, and his latest release, That You May Live: How the 10 Commandments Lead to Human Freedom. For this conversation Jason had the opportunity to join Darrell in his study at home where Darrell spends time each morning in devotion and study. In this episode, Darrell shares about: Some of his mor

A question many of us face this time of year is how to guide our congregations well through the Advent season. In the midst of pastoring others, some of us have been able to enter into the wonder of the season ourselves, some of us are navigating the busyness of planning and executing events and services, and others of us are walking through a deeply painful season that can come with this time of year. Wherever you find yourself today, our prayer is that this time spent listening to this conversation will strengthen your hands, fill your heart with courage, and draw you deeper into the joys of this Advent season. Today, AJ Sherrill joins us from St. Peter’s Church in Charleston, South Carolina. AJ has pastored in diverse contexts—from California to New York to Grand Rapids—before settling in Charleston with his family. He’s also an accomplished author, and his latest book, Rediscovering Christmas, is a profound exploration of the Bible’s Christmas story, helping us embrace the ancient wonder of the season. In

Pastoring has always been a vocation of great responsibility, yet the expectations placed on pastors today have grown increasingly complex. From preaching and shepherding to being organizational leaders, cultural commentators, and trauma-informed counselors, the demands can stack up, making the work feel impossible. Add to this the challenge of navigating a rapidly changing cultural and technological landscape, and it’s no wonder so many pastors wrestle with questions of calling, capacity, and resilience. But amidst these challenges the ancient wisdom of the church and the gift of pastoral community offer a way forward. In this episode of The Pastorate, we sit down with Glenn Packiam, Lead Pastor of Rockharbor Church in Costa Mesa, California, to explore the depth and complexity of pastoral ministry in today’s world. Glenn brings his unique perspective as a pastor, offering insights on how to remain grounded in the midst of ministry’s ever-growing demands. Drawing from both his own experiences, Glenn unpacks

This week on The Pastorate we are excited to host Carey Nieuwhof—Bestselling author, Host of the Carey Nieuwhof Leadership Podcast, and Founding Pastor of Connexus Church in Barrie, Ontario Today’s episode covers a wide range of topics: Carey discusses his journey of founding and then stepping back from the Lead role at Connexus Church. He reflects on how stepping aside has required humility and an intentional shift from leading to supporting. Carey takes the time to walk us through some insights on the shift away from consumer Christianity towards a desire for genuine discipleship and connection as well as a need to reorient our ministry models alongside this cultural shift. He opens up about his experience with the potential dangers of pastoring: isolation or confusing church success with personal faith — along with practices like friendship and building a life outside of ministry to help mitigate the danger. We’re thankful you’ve joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Bio | Carey N

This week on The Pastorate, Rachel Hughes—Pastor of Gas Street Church in Birmingham, England—joins us on the podcast for a conversation on pastoral ministry. Rachel shares about: The experience of planting Gas Street Church, the ongoing cycle of raising and sending new leaders, and how church planting can disrupt comfort zones, keep churches mission-focused, and foster a kingdom mindset. Managing her roles as a church leader and a mother of five, navigating the complexities of parenting, pastoring, and fostering a local church community while also contributing to the broader church. Her work with The Orchard and her passion for creating spaces for women to explore their leadership potential, advocating for a church culture where men and women lead side-by-side for the sake of the Kingdom. We’re thankful you’ve joined us on The Pastorate today, bless you as you listen. Bio | Rachel is the co-founder and co-lead pastor of Gas Street Church in Birmingham, where she and her husband, Tim, have served their c

This week in the inaugural episode of The Pastorate, Adam Browett – Pastor of Calvary Temple in Winnipeg, Manitoba – joins us on the podcast for a conversation on pastoral ministry. Adam shares about: What Adam’s been learning recently, as a naturally gifted speaker, about continuing to develop his craft of preaching, Adam’s journey discerning transition–taking on the role of lead pastor for a historic church and how he’s guided his family in the midst of the move, and Leading an inner city church to embrace and celebrate the neighbourhood they find themselves in We’re praying that today you would be strengthened to live more fully into the work that God has for you in the place and context of your own neighbourhood. Bio | Adam has been in full-time ministry since 2005, serving churches across Western Canada, including BC, Alberta, and Manitoba. He’s passionate about reaching challenging areas where Christians often hesitate to go and encourages others to do the same. In February 2024, Adam, his wife Sh

Since its inception over four years ago, the Canadian Church Leaders Network (CCLN) has served thousands of pastors through its podcast, monthly newsletter, cohort-based programs, and pastors retreats and gatherings. This week, Jason Ballard, host of the Canadian Church Leaders Podcast and Executive Director of CCLN sits down with Chris Price to discuss the future of CCLN and the adoption of a new name for both the organization and the podcast: The Pastorate. Jason reflects on: The rationale behind the naming of The Pastorate and the organization’s renewed focus on serving pastors, The current state of Canadian church leadership, How The Pastorate is serving to strengthen Canadian pastors through content, cohorts, and gatherings. As CCLN becomes The Pastorate, we invite you to pray, share, and give towards seeding a hope-filled future for the Canadian church. Show Notes Website Blog and Episode Write Up Youtube Instagram Share a Canadian Church Story

We've got a special episode for all of you this week. The CCLN Team is working hard on a special project that will be officially announced with the October 7th episode on the podcast, but we didn't want to leave you high and dry this week. In 2022, we had Keith Taylor speak to a group of Pastors as part of our first cohort based program, The Church Leaders Incubator. Out of the many amazing speakers that the cohort was able to learn from, this was a session that captures our desire for creating opportunities to grow in competency with hearts full of love for Jesus and love for people. Don't let the topic dissuade you, this episode is worth your time. Jason will also take a moment to share some insight into what is coming up for our team here at CCLN. Give⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ today⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to CCLN and help seed a hopeful future for the Church in Canada. Get Connected! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Blog & Episode write-up⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠

The work of renewal in a church is slow, costly, and long-term. It requires pastors who consistently say, “I can’t do this alone,” and who return to the feet of Jesus, the One making all things new. This week, Father James Mallon, Pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in beautiful Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, joins us on the podcast to share his heart for evangelism and his passion for parish renewal. Father James reflects on: His journey back to local church ministry after a season in parachurch and diocesan roles Re-experiencing the cost of renewal in a parish setting Tending to the inevitable wounds of pastoral ministry The Holy Spirit as both the gathering and sending force of the Church We hope you find joy and comfort in knowing that pastoral ministry is a shared journey, as brothers and sisters across Canada collectively pray, “Come, Holy Spirit.” Bio | Father James Mallon is pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia and founder of the Divine Renovation Ministry. The message of