Mission Control
FBC Melbourne has a goal called “Launch 10x”. Our vision is to plant 10 churches, send out 100 missionaries, train 1,000 leaders, and make 10,000 disciples in the next 10 years. The purpose of the Mission Control podcast is to share stories from within the FBC Melbourne faith community of people who are living out this vision. Regardless of who you are, we all have a role to play. We are all involved in God’s story. We pray that the stories shared through Mission Control will encourage you to see how God is calling you to be used by Him!
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
In this latest installment of the Mission Control Podcast, we have the pleasure of welcoming a true servant leader, Dennis Smith. With over forty years of dedicated ministry under his belt, Dennis reflects on a spiritual journey marked by unwavering devotion, discipline, and an earnest pursuit of God's calling. From his transformative calling to ministry in his youth to his current transition towards new horizons, tune in to hear Dennis share his heartfelt experiences with disciple-making, senior adult mentoring, and empowering church communities.
**Episode Highlights:**
- Dennis Smith recounts his pathway to ministry
- The instrumental role of daily quiet time in Dennis's spiritual guidance
- The journey God has brought him through over 40 years of ministry
- Insights into his imminent retirement plans and new opportunities for living on mission
- The encouragement of proactive involvement in church life and small groups - Practical advice for those discerning a call to ministry
**Resources Mentioned:**
- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg https://rb.gy/hc50t5
- "The Cost of Discipleship" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer https://rb.gy/zbvpz0
**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.
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Aleyah Terry: A Gap Year of Merging Creativity and International Missions
Monday Apr 01, 2024
Monday Apr 01, 2024
In this insightful episode of Mission Control, we're excited to introduce Aleyah Terry, a creative spirit and recent high school graduate who took a leap of faith by participating in an overseas mission with YWAM (Youth With a Mission) instead of heading straight to college. Aleyah shares her transformative experiences of personal growth, spiritual discovery, and creative pursuits while abroad. From a long-haul flight that taught her complete dependency on God to her activities in Norway and the United Kingdom, Aleyah's story is one of introspection, inspiration, and the pursuit of God's nudge. Tune in as we delve into Aleyah's gap year adventure that leads her not just across the globe but also closer to understanding her path in life and God's guiding hand in it.
**Resources Mentioned:**
- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg https://www.amazon.com/God-Calling-Me-Answering-Question/dp/0805447229
- “Kisses from Katie” by Katie Davis—Aleyah's inspirational reading on gap year experiences. https://shorturl.at/rtS69
- “The Next Right Thing” by Emily P. Freeman—A book recommended by Aleyah for decision-making. https://shorturl.at/zCDO6
- YWAM (Youth With A Mission)—The organization through which Aleyah took her disciple training. https://ywam.org
**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.
Monday Mar 18, 2024
Monday Mar 18, 2024
In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we are joined by the passionate Dario Suri, a dedicated youth pastor and worship leader at Christ Community Church, and an area representative for FCA. Dario shares his personal journey of faith, his deep commitment to leading youth through worship and scripture, and his transformative experiences in ministry. Listen in as Dario opens up about his early struggles, his calling to mentorship and discipleship, and the meaningful impact of outreach programs on the local community.
Episode Highlights:
- Dario Suri's multifaceted role at Christ Community Church and his outreach through FCA
- The art of leading 33 huddles and using scripture to share the gospel
- The inspiring story of a troubled student's turnaround at an FCA camp
- Insights into Dario's calling into ministry and his vision to spread truth
- The backstory of how Dario got involved with FCA and the church
- The spiritual journey from hitting rock bottom to leading worship and youth
- Dario's interesting transition into becoming a youth pastor through divine timing
- Reflecting on the surprise growth of the youth group and community outreach success
- Influences of Dan Carter and Jason Shack on Dario's path into ministry
Resources Mentioned:
- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg: https://www.amazon.com/God-Calling-Me-Answering-Question/dp/0805447229
- Christ Community Church https://christcommunitysb.com
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) https://www.brevardfca.org
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 encouraging stories of how God is using people from the Space Coast to impact the God's Kingdom!
Monday Mar 04, 2024
Monday Mar 04, 2024
In this episode of Mission Control, we're joined by Dr. Abe Walton, professor at FIT, who shares his unique perspectives on the interplay between faith, education, and leadership. Listen as Abe delves into his experience going through the Aspire program, and how God's story intersects with our life's work. Discover how Abe blends biblical teachings with business acumen, his insights into fostering, and the value of continual learning and growth in faith. Whether it's fostering children or teaching thousands of students, Abe Walton embodies the practice of embedding kingdom work in every facet of life. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that challenges the status quo and inspires active involvement in God's work here on earth.
Episode Highlights:
- The journey from working in retail to software engineering to teaching at a university and Abe's approach to integrating faith in academics
- Participation in the Aspire program and the fusion of business principles with biblical teachings
- Practical steps for getting involved in missions and fostering without feeling overwhelmed
- The impact of small group involvement and sustaining a kingdom-oriented outlook
- Abe's extensive experience in fostering and the support available through organizations like Nana's House and One More Child
- The significance of mentoring in both spiritual and academic contexts, and Abe's passion for education as a life-long calling
Resources Mentioned:
- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg
- Aspire program at FBC Melbourne, aimed at enhancing one's foundation in the word of God: https://www.fbcmel.info/aspire/
- Nana's House and One More Child, organizations supporting foster care: http://nanaschildrenshome.com & https://onemorechild.org
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 deepening their faith and hearing encouraging stories of how God is on the move in the Space Coast
Monday Feb 19, 2024
Monday Feb 19, 2024
In this episode of Mission Control Podcast, we're honored to have Taylor Cannon, Minister of Outreach at First Baptist Melbourne, share his profound transformation from a budding chemical engineer to working in ministry. With a candid openness, Taylor recounts the steps, his inner conflicts, and the divine guidance that led him through an astonishing career pivot. His journey illustrates the power of faith and community in steering life's direction, and how embracing one's true calling can lead to the most fulfilling of missions. Join host Amanda Levy as she helps unpack Taylor's story, seeking to inspire and enlighten anyone who may be contemplating a significant leap of faith in their own lives.
Episode Highlights:
- Taylor Cannon's shift from chemical engineering to vocational ministry
- The influence of Christian freedom on career choices
- Roadblocks faced by Taylor, including financial challenges
- How God worked through Taylor's relationship and discernment of marriage
- Taylor's experience with Intervarsity, subsequent marriage, and family life discussions
- Insights into Taylor's mentors and their impact on his faith journey
- Advice on disciple-making, studying, and teaching the word of God
- Taylor's engagement with community outreach and growth goals for First Baptist Melbourne
- The importance and impact of parental support in career transitions
Resources Mentioned:
- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg (https://www.christianbook.com/calling-answering-question-every-leader-asks/jeff-iorg/9780805447224/pd/447224)
- "Bible Talk" Podcast by James Hamilton (https://www.9marks.org/tag/bible-talk/)
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 vocational ministry journeys and faith-based transformations.
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.
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Rebecca Cannon: Embracing Her Role in Preschool Ministry Leadership
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Monday Feb 05, 2024
Today we're charting a course through the wonderful realm of early childhood spiritual education with a very special guest.
In this episode, we're joined by Rebecca Cannon, the new Preschool Ministry Director at First Baptist Melbourne. Rebecca's journey hasn't been a straight path; it's taken her from aspirations in wedding planning to pursuing a business degree, with a pivotal stop at Chick-fil-A, and even engaging in the meaningful work of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. But it's her current mission that’s shaping young lives that brings her to us today.
We'll explore Rebecca's leap into the world of ministry with her family, her candid thoughts on stepping into this new role after being a stay at home mom for a season, and how she's discovered her own calling to serve part-time—aligning perfectly with her vocation as a dedicated mom.
With a passion for teaching and stewardship, Rebecca is enthusiastic about fostering spiritual growth from an early age, integrating catechism, and preparing the littlest ones to participate in worship.
Join us as we touch on everything from space travel icebreakers to the nuts and bolts of volunteer management, the impact of children's ministry, and the importance of consistent love in learning environments. So, strap in and ready your heart as we lift off with Rebecca Cannon on this episode of Mission Control.
Timestamps
00:00 Intro and Ice Breaker
04:01 Leading preschool ministry, loving my new job.
08:30 Uncertain start, found faith, led ministry, parenthood.
10:14 Callings can be simple, not mystical experiences.
15:54 Seminary ending, considering future, offered preschool ministry.
18:24 Embracing leadership, accepting hard decisions for others.
23:12 Encouraging kids to trust in Christ, participate.
26:25 Discover church needs, follow your calling, consider circumstances.
28:01 Get involved at First Baptist in Melbourne.
30:39 Teaching preschoolers has benefits for communication skills.
Resources Mentioned:
- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg- A recommended read on embracing God's calling.
- The New City Catechism for Kids
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.
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Matt Thomas: Cultivating Faith through Church Planting
Monday Jan 22, 2024
Monday Jan 22, 2024
In this episode of Mission Control, join our conversation with Matt Thomas as he shares his experiences and insights into the world of church planting. From evaluating core beliefs to the dynamics of a growing congregation, Matt's journey unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of planting seeds of faith.
Episode Highlights:
Exploring the local dynamics and challenges of starting a church.
Matt's reflections on evaluating core beliefs and aligning them with the vision of the church.
The unique aspects of a smaller church and its impact on community building.
Insights into the kids' ministry and the dynamics of having a diverse congregation.
Matt's thoughts on the Great Commission and its relevance in the context of church planting.
Encouragement for those feeling the call to make disciples and step into evangelism.
The joy and freedom found in sharing the message of Jesus and the Good News.
Observations on the discipleship journey and the diverse team that God assembles.
Resources:
- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg- A recommended read on embracing God's calling.
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.
Monday Dec 18, 2023
Mike Griffin: Embracing God’s Command for the Nations
Monday Dec 18, 2023
Monday Dec 18, 2023
In this episode, join us as we sit down with Mike Griffin, sharing a remarkable journey of faith, compassion, and cultural transformation in the Middle East. Through the lens of his son Luke's unique connection with a grieving family, Mike unfolds a powerful story of God's love transcending boundaries.
Episode Highlights:
From Sorrow to Celebration: Explore the emotional journey of a family transitioning from sorrow over loss to celebration through an unexpected connection.
God's Command and Calling: Mike emphasizes the difference between the Great Commission as a command and a personal calling, inspiring listeners to embrace God's heart for all nations.
Changing Perspectives: Witness the transformation of cultural perspectives on disability from shame to honor through one small act of kindness.
Prayer and Obedience: Mike highlights the role of prayer and obedience in discerning God's will and actively participating in His work around the world.
Resources:
- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg- A recommended read on embracing God's calling.
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.