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2.1 Passing it On: Wisdom from Three District Presidents | Mission in the Mitten

What makes ministry healthy? How do strong relationships shape congregations? And what wisdom is worth passing on to the next generation of pastors, church workers, and lay leaders?

In this episode, Michigan District President Rev. David A. Davis is joined by former District Presidents Rev. Dr. David P. E. Maier and Rev. Dr. C. William Hoesman for a wide-ranging conversation about ministry, leadership, relationships, and the future of the Church. Together, they reflect on decades of experience serving congregations and church workers throughout the Michigan District.

From mentoring young pastors and building strong congregational communities to navigating conflict, encouraging future church workers, and reaching neighbors with the Gospel, the conversation keeps returning to one central truth: ministry happens through relationships. In a culture that can often feel increasingly isolated, they discuss why face-to-face connection, Christian friendship, prayer, and intentional community still matter deeply.

They also look ahead, asking how congregations can recognize gifts, encourage vocations, and surround young people with faithful adults who notice them, support them, and invite them to consider how God might use them in service to His Church and world.

Listen for stories, laughter, practical wisdom, and a hopeful reminder that, even in the midst of change and challenge, Christ continues to build His Church.

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