Discover Advent in Everyday Moments: LOVE This video includes prayers, discussions and interviews focusing on spirituality, love, and faith. The main speaker introduces Bishop Robert W. Ihloff of the Episcopal Church, who stresses the importance of living the faith and accepting others regardless of their beliefs. Father Jeff Hual explains his meaningful involvement in the Syrian refugee crisis initiated out of love and friendship, which included providing wheelchairs and education materials. The video also features Dr. Dorothy Adamson Holley, a Developmental Psychologist who integrates psychology and spirituality in her work, shares her philosophy that love plus forgiveness equals freedom.00:18 Opening Prayer00:40 Introduction to Right Reverend Robert W. Ihloff01:21 Discussion on the Future of the Church04:41 Introduction to Father Jeff Hual and His Ministry05:06 Father Jeff's Involvement in the Syrian Refugee Crisis10:39 Introduction to Dr. Dorothy Adamson Holley11:57 Dr. Holley's Philosophy on Love, Forgiveness, and Freedom12:21 Dr. Holley's Reflections on the George Floyd Incident13:44 Closing ThoughtsListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Discover Advent in Everyday Moments: Joy In this video, we interact with some inspirational figures - Dr. Sharon Runge, Executive Director of Kenya Connect (USA), Reverend Henrietta Wiley, Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church in Towson, Maryland, and Markiesha E. Wilson, a human capital consultant. Dr. Runge speaks about the work her organization is doing in rural Kenya and her personal journey of embracing opportunities. Reverend Henrietta Wiley, shares her view on joy as a divine gift and expresses how her priesthood opened a 'floodgate of joy' for her. Finally, Markiesha E. Wilson emphasizes the role of faith in overcoming life's challenges, her experiences navigating the corporate world, and the journey of writing her book, 'In the Climb, Eight Audacious Actions to Overcome Life and Climb the Corporate Ladder with Joy.' Join us to learn from these women as they recount their experiences and share their insights.00:15 Introduction to Dr. Sharon Runge and Kenya Connect01:06 Personal Experiences and Impact of Kenya Connect01:58 Cultural Exchange and Connection with Kenya04:56 Introduction to Reverend Henrietta Wiley05:42 Joy and Spirituality in Henrietta's Life11:45 Introduction to Markiesha E. Wilson12:57 Faith and Spirituality in Markiesha's Life13:54 Markiesha's TED Talk Experience and Her Faith15:27 Markiesha's Book and Final ThoughtsListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Discover Advent in Everyday Moments: PEACE In this three-part video, orchestra teacher Pat Aaron discusses her musicianship at her church, where she performs either solo, with a pianist friend, or as part of a quartet or trios. She reflects on how performing music provides a deeply spiritual and emotional experience, not just for her, but for those who are listening. The video highlights the beauty of connecting with people through music and the sense of calm and unity it brings within the community.The conversation takes a deep turn as the priest, the Rev. Dr. Brandt Montgomery, school chaplain, shares his personal struggles of racial prejudice at a previous school, including an incident with KKK literature. Despite these challenges, his story reflects resilience, forgiveness, and an ever-abiding faith in the 'wideness of God's love and community’.Priest and author the Rev. Mary Luck Stanley reflects on her personal relationship with God, the omnipresent, during times of crisis and happiness. She articulates a theory that during stressful periods, humans tend to experience tunnel vision, making it difficult to see the presence and work of God in their lives. In hindsight, as healing occurs and with the passage of time, the perspective tends to broaden, and God's grace can be seen in those stressful situations. She further talk about her book “Grace in the Rearview Mirror,” being an invitation for readers to retrospectively examine their lives, share those experiences, and see God's work in their past, even in difficult times, providing a sense of catharsis and eventually leading to strengthened faith. The book is recommended for those seeking personal spiritual growth and could be used as part of a book group activity.Highlights:00:00 intro00:43 Pat Aaron05:25 Brandt Montgomery09:48 Mary Luck Stanley16:30 EndingListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Discover Advent in Everyday Moments: Finding HOPE Advent One: Three Stories of HopeIn the face of adversity, it is often our resilience that shines through, guiding us towards hope and strength. St. Peter's Church in Ellicott City is a prime example of this unwavering resilience. As a church that has experienced its fair share of trauma and tragedy, it has emerged stronger and more determined than ever. In this excerpt from a Good News! podcast, we invite you to reflect on the profound lessons of resilience, hope, and faith.The second excerpt focuses on Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community and Roman Catholic Womenpriests. The speaker gives the example of the inspiring story of a group of sisters who voted unanimously to see their work to completion, embracing the hope that lies in the seeds they have planted. Similarly, Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community, led by Pastor Gloria Carpeneto, is a stepping stone in the evolution of God's plan. The third excerpt highlights the importance of empowering Gen Z in their passion for social justice and truth. Gen Z individuals are vocal about their beliefs and dedicated to making a difference in the world. The speaker suggests that the church should meet young people where they are, utilizing online platforms and digital evangelism to engage with them effectively. He shares his optimism for the future, believing that the church's involvement in these areas can benefit not only their own tradition but the entire body of Christ. 00:04 Intro 00:50 The Rev. Derek Miller05:42 The Rev. Gloria Carpeneto11:00 Brother Christian16:05 Final Words from Derek© 2023 Listening for Clues

Good News 2023 Season Closing The Listening for Clues team, Co-hosts Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, and Director Lynn Shematek, gather to reflect on creating twenty-one "Good News!" podcasts published since June 2023. They are humbled and grateful to have heard and shared the stories of remarkable individuals who are making a difference in the world, be it large or small. Even as the 2023 season draws to a close, plans are underway for even more to come in 2024. In this final episode of the year, they express thanks to their guests as well as their viewers and listeners. Watch or listen to this episode, and any others in the series at https://listeningforclues.com/Stay tuned for information about their upcoming four-part program (to be launched on November 27): "Discover Advent in Everyday Moments.".Highlights0:00 GN 2023 Closer00:18 Welcome00:48 What Was It Like To Do the Podcast?02:18 Our Guests04:31 What's Next?05:21 Thanks to Our Viewers and ListenersResources mentioned in this episode:Captivate Audio Podcast PlaylistYouTube Podcast PlaylistsListening for Clues | On the Journey with Jon and LaurenListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

In the Climb with Markiesha E. Wilson We are honored to have Markiesha E. Wilson, a human capital consultant, leadership coach, and author of "In the Climb." Markiesha talks about how her vocation came to be, the power of forgiveness and her amazing book.Resources mentioned in this episode:Markiesha's book "In the Climb" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Climb-Audacious-Actions-Overcome-Corporate/dp/1737622300Markiesha's website: https://wilson-chapman.com/Markiesha's email address: pursuejoy@wilson-chapman.comMarkiesha's Instagram address:https://www.instagram.com/wilsonchapmancoaches/?hl=enThe TEDX talk Forgiveness in the Workplace: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EUHyo9N1iAListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Engaging Our LIteral Neighbors We are honored to have the Rev. Derek Miller, Rector of St. Peter's Church in Ellicott City, MD with us. Derek talks with us about what it means to be a "co-vocational" priest, and the work he is doing with the Ellicott City Partnership. He encourages us to re-engage with our literal neighbors, people outside the walls of our churches.00:00 Engaging Our LIteral Neighbors00:22 Introduction01:34 The Ellicott City Partnership03:49 About Ellicott City and the People06:56 Co-Vocational: What Does It Mean?11:47 Surprises? Resilience!14:47 Your Source of Spiritual Resili16:55 Having Fun19:25 BothAndBand22:00 Connect with Derek23:48 Final Words26:55 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:Derek's Website Derek's Facebook page Derek on YouTube @stpetersec on Instagram Band is on Instagram: BothAndBand: @bothandbandOld Ellicott City partnership website: https://visitoldellicottcity.com/Derek is the Rector at St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Old Ellicott City and the Main Street Coordinator for the Ellicott City Partnership. Person, Partner, Parent, Priest, Place-maker. I live in OEC with my wife, Kara and my three-year old son, Easton and I love to accumulate (and sometimes read) books, drink craft-made beverages, and play music at open mics. (let me know if you need other info) Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

A Deacon's Heart with Anne Reed We are honored to have the Rev. Anne Reed, Episcopal Deacon, who speaks with us about her varied ministries following her retirement from her secular work. In this conversation, Anne embodies what many of us call a "deacon's heart," demonstrating the joy that comes from seeking and serving Christ in others, and connecting the church and the world.HIGHLIGHTS00:00 A Deacon's Heart with Anne Reed00:20 Introduction01:21 Anne's Many Ministries as a Deacon03:19 Serving in Multiple Churches06:54 Habitat for Humanity10:13 The Seamen's Church14:50 Surprise and Joy16:39 Music and the Spirit20:50 Foot Care Ministry23:09 Contact24:13 Final Words25:31 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:Anne's email: dcnareed@gmail.comSeamen's Church Institute: https://seamenschurch.org/Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Guardian Angel: A Place for Everyone We are honored to have the Rev. Steve Holt, Rector of the Church of the Guardian Angel, Baltimore City with us today. Steve speaks about the many ministries this church offers to the community and how it has responded to the needs of the Spanish-speaking residents of the neighborhood. Steve also speaks about his new role in the Diocese of Maryland as the Associate for MIssion.Resources mentioned in this episode:Steve's email address: rectoratguardianangelremington. orgSteve's Website Steve's Facebook page @guardianangelremington on Instagram @GuardianAngelR on Twitter Highlights00:00 Guardian Angel: A Place for Everyone00:18 Introduction01:36 What's Going on at Guardian Angel?03:47 The Remington Neighborhood and its People07:03 Spanish Speakers a Surprise11:51 The Food Pantry MInistry15:03 The Thrift Shop Ministry16:02 Guardian Angel & Steve's Faith Journey19:06 Diocesan Associate for Mission20:09 Sutton Scholars High School Enrichment Program22:40 How to Contact Steve23:52 Final Words24:47 ThanksFr. Steve Holt is currently the Rector of Church of the Guardian Angel in Baltimore City, where he serves a community-focused parish that is very active in their Remington neighborhood. He is also the Associate for Mission for the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland, helping churches across the diocese to become more involved in sharing the love of Jesus in public. His prior experience includes community organizing in Los Angeles, regional planning in greater Baltimore, and homelessness services for the state of Maryland. He lives in the Ednor Gardens-Lakeside neighborhood with his wife, Heather, and their three children, where he enjoys running and tabletop gaming. Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Feeling Beings Who Think We are honored to have the Rev. Arianne Rice, Rector of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd, Towson, MD. Arianne speaks with us about podcasting, leadership coaching and mission work at St. Luke's Youth Center.Highlights:00:00 Feeling Beings Who Think00:00 Introduction02:12 How Did You Get Involved in Podcasting and Leadership Development?04:04 Becoming a Priest07:47 Personal Tragedies10:44 A New Beginning14:32 Executive Coaching19:21 Arianne's Podcast: "Feeling Beings Who Think"26:46 Surprises Along the Way31:23 Contacting Arianne32:51 St. Luke's Youth Center (SLYC)36:20 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:GOOD SHEPHERD WEBSITE: https://www.church.goodshepherdruxton.org/Arianne's Facebook group Arianne's Facebook page @feelingbeingswhothink on Instagram Arianne's Website Arianne on YouTube The Rev. Arianne Rice is an ordained Episcopal priest, engaging presenter, facilitator, and ACC certified Leadership Coach who works with individuals and groups to harness the power of emotional intelligence and cultivate capacities of spiritual leadership - i.e. leading with discernment, presence, mindfulness, and compassionate self-examination. She is also a Certified Daring Way Facilitator utilizing the methodology developed by Dr. Brené Brown for understanding the power of vulnerability and the necessity of cultivating shame-resilience skills for adaptive leadership. For the past twelve years she has served with the community of The Church of the Good Shepherd, Towson as Rector and is the Board President of St. Luke's Youth Center (SLYC) a collaborative of West Baltimore families working together to provide youth with critical resources, life-enriching experiences, and a safety-net of support. Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Gen Z and the Future of the Church We are honored to have Brother Christian Ventura, O.P. who speaks about his co-vocational call to the Dominican monastic order and the Episcopal diaconate. Christian talks about the future of the church, especially as related to the "diaconal hearts" of Gen Z.Highlights00:00 Gen Z and the Future of the Church00:00 Introduction01:21 Being a Dominican Friar03:20 Working in Emergency Medicine04:45 Symbolism of the Habit06:57 Why a Deacon08:08 The Future of the Church11:36 Gen Z and the Church15:12 Obstacles in the Path17:08 Contact Information19:00 Final Words19:39 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:Br. Christian's Facebook page Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Becoming Community with Music We are honored to have Pat Aaron, who has been teaching music to children in public schools in Western Maryland for several decades, as she talks about the power of music to create relationships and community.00:00 Becoming Community with Music 00:00 Introduction01:18 Inspired by a Teacher02:13 It's All About the Students03:52 Favorite Interactions with Students04:59 How Is Music Life-Changing?07:55 Relationships08:31 Personal Growth09:57 Community Symphony11:30 Connection with Spiritual Life14:31 Final Words of Wisdom15:29 ThanksPat Aaron is an orchestra teacher in the Allegany County Schools. She works with students in grades 4 through 8. She is originally from Lima, Ohio where she played as a student in the Lima Symphony. Pat has been an orchestra teacher in Cumberland for 37 years. She co-directs the Allegany Community Symphony Orchestra with two of her colleagues. She enjoys playing chamber music with friends and performing at her church. Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Opening the Gates with Rhetta Wiley We are honored to have the Rev. Dr. Henrietta Wiley, PhD, Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, Towson, MD. Rhetta speaks with us about "opening the gates" of the church to new ways of thinking and new partnerships.Resources mentioned in this episode:Trinity Episcopal Church - Towson, MarylandRhetta's email address: hlwiley@trinitychurchtowson.orgHighlights:00:00 Opening the Gates with Rhetta Wiley00:00 Introduction00:19 Introduction01:29 Integrating Community03:57 Partnership with Unity Fellowship Church09:24 Initial Reactions at Trinity Church Towson16:34 Mission18:51 Surprises?22:29 The Source of Deep Joy26:35 Contact Information27:12 Wednesday Evening Live Prayer28:25 Final Words of Wisdom28:54 ThanksListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Spirituality & Social Justice with Bishop Bob Ihloff We are honored to have the Rt. Reverend Robert W. Ihloff, recently retired after serving 28 years as a bishop of the Episcopal Church. Bob speaks about how his spirituality has inspired and maintained his decades-long passion for social justice issues.Highlights:00:00 Spirituality & Social Justice with Bishop Bob Ihloff00:18 Introduction01:31 Social Justice & Spirituality: The Common Thread of Bishop Bob's Ordained LIfe03:44 Challenges of Prophetic Preaching07:16 Differences in Being a Parish Priest and Diocesan Bishop09:44 What has surprised you?11:56 How has spiritual direction shaped your ministry?14:46 Being a Spiritual Director Again17:30 The Future of Christianity21:15 How to Contact Bishop Bob21:54 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:Bishop Bob's Personal eMail address: rwihloff@gmail.comListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community We are honored to have the Rev. Gloria Carpeneto, a Roman Catholic Womanpriest, who talks about the Living Waters Inclusive Catholic Community, a prophetic voice of inclusion, worship and ministry. Gloria isCo-Pastor & Founder, Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community, 2008-present, an open, welcoming, and inclusive alternative Catholic community. Ordained, Roman Catholic Womanpriest in Boston MA 2008. Married to Myles Carpeneto, 53 years; 2 children, 4 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, living in Catonsville. Labyrinth facilitator, retreat facilitator, spiritual director, working to help folks on their walk with God, whomever and whatever that is for them. Resources mentioned in this episode:Gloria's Facebook PageThe Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community Facebook Group PageThe Living Water Community WebsiteHighlights:00:00 Living Water Inclusive Catholic Community00:00 Introduction01:33 Roman Catholic Womenpriests05:12 A Roman Catholic Prophetic Movement 08:56 The Living Water Inclusive Community12:23 Surprises Along the Way15:48 A Deeper Understanding of God20:04 Obstacles Along the Way25:56 Hope for the Future29:20 Learn More, Make Contact31:41 Final Words33:51 ThanksListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

On Volunteering with Kathy Lochary We are honored to have Kathy Lochary from Baltimore, MD. Kathy speaks about how a personal tragedy helped her find a way to give to others. She is a humble, generous person who has worked for years to connect people with others in need.Highlights:00:00 On Volunteering with Kathy Lochary 00:21 Introduction01:10 How Kathy Got Involved06:46 Making a Difference07:59 Any Surprises?09:21 Being a Worker Bee10:33 Obstacles Lead to Adaptation12:49 Advice for Others Who Want to Help14:46 A Favorite Poem, A Lifetime Inspiration15:41 ThanksListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Grace in the Rearview Mirror We are honored to have the Reverend Mary Luck Stanley, Episcopal priest and newly-published co-author of "Grace in the Rearview Mirror," which offers perspectives on finding God in the everyday, from four women Episcopal priests who are married to Episcopal priests. Highlights00:00 Grace in the Rearview Mirror00:00 Intro01:13 How the Book Came into Being02:53 Theme of the Book05:46 What Have You Learned from this Experience?11:32 How It Felt to Recall Painful Memories14:50 Deeper Understanding of God17:34 Book Groups and Questions19:48 Writing and a Personal Journey22:41 Sources of Inspiration23:46 Where to Get the Book23:59 Authors Will "Zoom" to Your Book Group25:01 ThanksResources mentioned in this episode:St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Grace in the Rearview Mirror available on AmazonMary Luck Stanley graduated from Texas A&M and the Church Divinity School of the Pacific. She has been an Episcopal priest since 1997 and is currently serving as co-rector of Old St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Baltimore. Mary is one of four co-authors of the book, "Grace in the Rearview Mirror: Four Women Priests on Brokenness, Belonging, and the Beauty of God." Listening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

A Journey to Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging We are honored to have the Rev. Dr. Brandt Montgomery speak with us about his call to ministry and experiences as a school chaplain, and his key role in bringing to life a program that promotes diversity, inclusion, equity and belonging at Saint James School, an Episcopal boarding school in western Maryland.Highlights:[00:00:00] INTRO [00:01:41] Being the Chaplain at St. James School [00:04:16] Relationships [00:06:10] Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging [00:11:08] Surprises Along the Way [00:15:51] Call to Priesthood [00:20:43] Being a Priest Who Happens to be Black [00:23:23] Learning from History [00:24:36] Learn More or Contact Brandt [00:25:03] St.Mark's, Lappans [00:26:28] ThanksThe Rev. Dr. Brandt Montgomery is the Chaplain of Saint James School in Hagerstown, Maryland, having previously served at the Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Lafayette, Louisiana as Chaplain of Ascension Episcopal School from 2014-2017, then as Associate Rector and All-School Chaplain from 2017-2019. From 2012-2014, Fr. Montgomery was the Curate at Canterbury Episcopal Chapel and Student Center at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa.Fr. Montgomery’s scholarly interests lie in the areas of American religious history, Episcopal Church history, the Oxford Movement and Anglo-Catholicism, the Civil Rights Movement, and practical theology.Resources mentioned in this episode:Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church Saint James SchoolListening for Clues | On the Journey with Jon and LaurenListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Project Linus: Blankets for Children in Crisis We are honored to have Kay Belzner , a volunteer with Project LInus, here with us today. Project Linus provides handmade blankets to children 0-18 in the United States who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need.Highlights:[00:00:00] Intro  [00:01:07] How Kay got started with Project Linus [00:02:15] How does Project LInus work? [00:04:00] Stories [00:06:54] Personal Relationship with God [00:09:25] Obstacles [00:10:44] A Community[00:11:43] What skills are needed to do this?  [00:16:03] How to get more information and help [00:19:38] ThanksKay Belzner is a retired elementary school counselor, married to Husband Chuck, live in Baltimore County; she enjoys reading, sewing and knitting for charity, gardening, crafting, finding ways to help those in need, exploring and deepening her relationship with God.Resources mentioned in this episode:FaceBook Project LinusHome - Project LinusListening for Clues | On the Journey with Jon and LaurenListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues

Well for the Journey In this episode, Greg talks about Well for the Journey, a spiritual wellness center in Lutherville, MD. The various programs offered in different formats and settings are focused on spiritual well-being, and center on the sacred conversation between the Spirit and a person's spirit, with the aim of bringing transformation and healing to the world. Changing the world, one person at a time, one heart at a time.We are honored to have Greg Cochran as our guest on this episode. Greg Cochran is Executive Director at a spiritual wellness center, Well for the Journey, in Lutherville, Maryland. He is a program/retreat facilitator and a spiritual companion. Greg is currently a staff member of Shalem Institute’s Spiritual Guidance Program in D.C. and a mentor in Paseo’s Spiritual Guidance Program in Idaho. He recently completed his service as Associate Pastor at Woodbrook Baptist Church (1988-2022). Greg is a graduate of Clemson University and Southern Seminary. He and his wife, Carole, live in Baltimore. They have two children (26 and 24). Greg is a hiker, photographer, woodworker, and loves being with family – and is always desiring to be open and listening for the invitation of the Spirit. Highlights:[00:00:00] Intro [00:01:45] How did Well for the Journey get started? [00:04:59] How has the Spirit surprised you? [00:06:05] A Model for Listening [00:08:16] What is Spiritual Wellness? [00:10:15] Challenges  [00:12:58] Faith and Trust [00:13:26] Moving Into the Surrounding Communities [00:16:07] Expanding the Reach and Impact [00:17:37] Hope for the World [00:19:12] How someone can participate in or support Well for the Journey [00:20:47] Thanks Resources mentioned in this episode: Well for the Journey – A Spiritual Wellness Center in Lutherville, MDListening for Clues is pleased to present our new series, "Good News!" featuring weekly conversations with people who are making a difference, large or small. We want everyone to know what they are doing, why they are doing it, and how. So, our listeners and viewers can experience the good news and go out and make a difference themselves. Listening for Clues invites you into conversations that discover clues, rather than solutions to life’s problems. Join the journey with Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch, Episcopal deacons, as we explore whatever lies ahead. Check our website Listening for Clues.© 2023 Listening for Clues