Mission Control

Eddie & Rye: Living on Mission as a Family Across Borders

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Eddie and Rye Myers, long-time members of First Baptist Melbourne, who share their transformative move to Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eddie and Rye discuss how a work opportunity led their family to embrace international living and pursue their faith mission across borders. Tune in as they explore building community in a new country, the roles of volunteering and homeschooling, and the profound impact these experiences had on their family’s faith and relationships. Episode Highlights: • Eddie & Rye's transition from Florida to Canada during COVID-19 • Building community and finding a church home in a foreign country • Navigating cultural differences and integrating family life abroad • The importance of embracing mission work as a family • Homeschooling experiences and the pursuit of character building • Transitioning back to life in Florida with renewed perspectives • Lessons on maintaining focus and intentionality amidst busyness Resources Mentioned: • "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg - A recommended read on embracing God's calling. • Classical Conversations - A homeschooling community that supported the Myers in Canada. Connect with Us: Visit our website at launchme.church Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel. Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org. Support the Show: Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next time as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.

Larry Bazer: from Lead Pastor to Answering God's Call to International Ministry

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Larry Bazer, the former pastor of First Baptist Melbourne, who served from 1986 to 2011. Larry shares his incredible journey from pastoring at First Baptist Melbourne to founding the international ministry SINT: Equipping the Church. Tune in to hear how Larry's early years in ministry, coupled with his passion for missions, have led to decades of teaching and evangelism in countries around the world such as Brazil, India, and Romania.
Episode Highlights:
Larry's early call to ministry at age 11 and his first sermon at age 15
His pastoral journey at First Baptist Melbourne and the foundation of SINT: Equipping the Church
The pivotal mission trip to Brazil and its lasting impact on Larry's ministry
The importance of teaching and training pastors in less-developed countries
Highlights from his trips to China, Romania, India, and other countries
The challenges and rewards of international missions, including language barriers and lost luggage
The significance of building long-term relationships in mission fields
Larry's renewed passion for preaching and writing in the wake of his wife's passing
Resources Mentioned:
“Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg
The Wordless Book (used in evangelistic efforts)
Southern Baptist Convention's Advance 2 initiative
Rhema Ministries (Ron Herod Evangelistic Ministry Association)
There's Hope Foundation (Romania mission)
Connect with Us:
Visit our website at
launchme.church
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.
Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.
Support the Show:
Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next week as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.

Gary Steffes: From Hockey to Ministry, Encouraging Athletes with Divine Confidence

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Gary Steffes, a former professional hockey player turned ministry leader and executive director of Pure Encouragement. Gary has an intriguing journey that takes him from the ice rinks of Bakersfield, CA to building spiritual communities across the U.S. His mission is to instill confidence and faith in individuals, irrespective of age, and to demonstrate living victoriously from the inside out. Join us as Gary shares his transformative story of overcoming personal struggles, his commitment to trusting God's guidance, and the miracles that have shaped his path.
Episode Highlights:
Gary’s journey from professional hockey to ministry leadership.
Overcoming personal struggles with confidence through faith.
The significance of trusting in God’s guidance over personal strength. • Gary's experiences with financial miracles confirming his faith.
Transitioning from a business model to offering ministry services without charge.
Leading Journey groups with an organization called Influencers.
Emphasizing the importance of eliminating financial barriers in ministry.
Gary’s impactful move to Palm Bay, Florida, and the supportive community there.
Highlights of his role in men's ministry and national connections.
Divine interventions and spiritual confirmations that guided Gary’s path.
 
Resources Mentioned:
“Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg - A recommended read on embracing God's calling in your life
Psalm 46 - A source of solace and guidance for Gary.
 
Connect with Us:
• Visit our website at launchme.church
• Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.
• Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.
 
Support the Show:
Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys.
 
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next time as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.

Travis Woernley: Planting Churches and Building Communities for God's Glory

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Travis Woernley, the church planting resident at First Baptist Melbourne. Travis opens up about his journey from a challenging past to answering God's call to plant a church in Titusville. Throughout this episode, you'll hear Travis share candid stories about seasons of waiting, the importance of community, and his unwavering dedication to ministry work. Join the conversation as Travis shares his transformational faith journey and his commitment to building gospel-centered communities.
 
Episode Highlights:
• Travis Woernley's move back home at age 21 and spiritual awakening
• His reconnection with his future wife, Crystal, and their faith journey
• His "Feast Fridays" and the significance of building community
• Travis's shift from a successful career in sales to full-time ministry
• The role of Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) in his ministry path
• Overcoming challenges in community-building and personal growth
• Embracing God's timing and the metaphor of doors and transition periods
• Travis's mentors, Dan Carter and Jason Schack, and their influence
• Advice for entering ministry: faithfulness, stewardship, and embracing God's opportunities
 
Resources Mentioned: • “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg • Launch 10X initiative details • Acts 2:42-47 as biblical inspiration for community gatherings
 
Connect with Us:
• Visit our website at launchme.church • Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel. • Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.
 
Support the Show:
Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in hearing inspirational stories of how God is at work in their life.  
 
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next week as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.

Al Williams: Transforming Lives with Door-to-Door Outreach

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Al Williams, a dedicated church member and active evangelist at First Baptist Melbourne. Al shares his transformative journey from a turbulent youth in New Orleans to serving in the military for 24 years, and ultimately, to a devoted life of evangelism and mentorship. Listen in as Al discusses his passion for spreading faith, his unique door-to-door outreach methods, and the profound impact he has seen in the Port Canaveral ministry.
Episode Highlights:
Al's early life challenges growing up in New Orleans and his yearning for faith.
Transition from military service to becoming an enthusiastic greeter at First Baptist Melbourne.
The humorous story of how Al eagerly sought out service opportunities with Pastor Scott Terry.
Al’s instrumental role in the door-to-door evangelism and mentoring in the community.
Personal anecdotes of successful evangelism in challenging neighborhoods.
The importance Al places on sharing God’s message and addressing community struggles.
The high conversion rates and divine interventions witnessed in Al’s outreach efforts.
Inspiring stories of life-changing encounters
Al's advice to churchgoers about embracing service and compassion within their community.
The significance of recognizing and utilizing personal gifts in accordance with God’s plan.
Resources Mentioned:
"Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg
Launch 10X and First Baptist Melbourne’s ministries
Connect with Us:
Visit our website at launchme.church
Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.
Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.
Support the Show:
Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us in our next episode as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.

Cindy Volz: The Transformational Power of Operation Christmas Child

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Amanda Levy sits down with Cindy Volz, a dedicated member of First Baptist Melbourne and passionate leader of the Operation Christmas Child ministry. Cindy shares her family's 27-year journey in mission work, the impact of their charitable activities, and how their love for international missions has shaped their lives. From hosting international students to their involvement with Psalm 96 ministries in Ecuador, Cindy's stories are a testament to faith, generosity, and the profound impact of giving.
 
Episode Highlights:
• Cindy Volz's 27-year journey volunteering with Operation Christmas Child
• Creating a family culture that is all involved in creating and organizing service projects.
• Future mission trip plans as Cindy and her husband transition to empty nesters.
• Hosting international students from Asia and fostering meaningful cultural exchanges.
• The extensive impact of Samaritan's Purse and its gospel projects for children.
• Cindy's involvement and leadership in the Operation Christmas Child ministry.
• Experiences with international adoption inspired by "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper and recording artist Steven Curtis Chapman.
• Cindy's ongoing engagement with student ministry and Psalm 96 ministries.
• Details of upcoming packing parties and related community activities.
 
Resources Mentioned:
• “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg
• "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper
• Samaritan's Purse - Operation Christmas Child
• Psalm 96 Ministries
 
Connect with Us:
• Visit our website at launchme.church
• Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.
• Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.
 
Support the Show: Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in encouraging faith journeys.

Will & Carlie: Balancing Practical Challenges and Joy Working Overseas

In this episode we set down with Will and Carlie who both work overseas in South Asia together. Will and Carlie share their journeys of faith, their initial misconceptions about overseas work, and how they overcame those challenges to fully commit to obedience to God. They dive deep into the emotional highs and lows of short-term trips, the necessity of creativity and flexibility, and the profound importance of building relationships within different cultural contexts. Tune in for valuable insights and heartfelt stories that underscore the importance of prayer, obedience, and the joy found in serving others.
Episode Highlights:
• Carlie's exploration of the emotional challenges faced during short-term trips leading to culture shock and depression.
• The difficulty of maintaining perspective and a positive outlook amidst daily frustrations.
• The blend of creativity and faith in navigating uncharted fields overseas.
• Brett's emphasis on building relational credit in cultural contexts.
• Advice for newcomers to disciple-making and how to start small within one's church.
• The critical role of prayer in facing challenges and making national partners.
• Sam and Brett's experiences with flexibility and the unanticipated mundane struggles of work overseas.
• Trusting in God's divine plan amid personal limitations and external pressures.
• Personal journeys from initial reluctance to full-hearted commitment to work in South Asia.
• Amanda Levy's testimony on the impact of overseas trips on her prayer life.
 
Resources Mentioned:
• "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg - https://shorturl.at/WYGUW
• Psalm 117
 
Connect with Us:
• Visit our website at launchme.church
• Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.
• Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.

Cliff McCray Jr.: Bridging Church Planting and Faith on the Football Field

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Cliff McCray Jr., the lead church planter at Radiant City Church in Boca Raton, Florida. Cliff shares his compelling story of securing a permanent location for his church, the surprises and growth encountered along the way, and his advice for those feeling called to make disciples. A former college football player, Cliff’s faith journey began after the tragic death of his college roommate, a pivotal moment that led him to Christ. Listen in as Cliff discusses the importance of the local church, his experience with FCA, and the power of God's work in unlikely places. From his humble beginnings to his role as a chaplain at FAU, Cliff's journey is a testament to faith, dedication, and mission-focused living.Episode Highlights:- Cliff McCray Jr.'s journey from a successful corporate marketing career to full-time ministry. - Establishing a permanent lease for Radiant City Church. - The significance of Radiant City’s new location near Florida Atlantic University. - The church's generous spirit and financial support from the Send Network and North American Mission Board. - Surprising contributors and growth at Radiant City. - The role of the local church and pastors in identifying and nurturing gifts. - Cliff’s deepening involvement with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). - The transition to a new church building and its impact on the community. - Cliff’s path to Omaha, Nebraska to leading Radiant City Church. - The value of partnerships, prayer, and financial support in church planting. - Cliff’s role as FAU's football team chaplain and community impact. - Balancing family life with ministry commitments. Resources Mentioned:- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg - Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA): https://www.fca.org - Radiant City Church: https://radiantcitychurch.org - Send Network: https://www.namb.net/send-network/Connect with Us:- Visit our website at launchme.church - Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel. - Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org. Support the Show:Share this episode with your friends and family who might be interested in international missions and faith journeys. Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Mission Control. Join us next time as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.