Between Sundays

The Back to School Blast

What does it take to bring the Back To School Blast to life each year?
In this episode of Between Sundays, we're joined by members of the team behind one of Jackson's favorite community events. Together, we talk about the heart behind the Back To School Blast, what it takes to prepare for a day that serves local students and families, and why partnerships, volunteers, and a shared commitment to our community make such a lasting impact.
Whether you're planning to attend, volunteer, or simply want a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible ministry, we hope this conversation reminds you of the difference we can make when we come together to serve our neighbors.
Join us on Thursday, July 23, from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at the American 1 Event Center as we help students start the school year ready, confident, and supported.

Freedom In Christ

As we celebrate Independence Day weekend, we're taking a moment to reflect on a different kind of freedom—the freedom found in Christ. In this devotional-style episode, we explore Galatians 5:1 and what it truly means to live as people who have been set free from shame, fear, guilt, and the pressure to earn God's love. While we're grateful for the freedoms we enjoy as a nation, we'll remember the greatest freedom of all was won through Jesus. Join us for this encouraging reminder to stand firm in the grace we've been given—and consider inviting someone to worship with you this Sunday.

Our Father and We Fathers

We're bringing Sunday morning to you with our sermon series, More Than a Story, where we unpack popular Bible stories. This week, join us as Joe Finley; Director of Family Ministries walks us through the story of Abraham and Isaac. Often remembered as one of the most difficult passages in Scripture, this story invites us to wrestle with trust, faith, and what it means to follow God when we cannot see the whole picture.
Whether you're revisiting Sunday's message or listening for the first time, we pray this sermon encourages you to trust the God who provides.

Love Boldly | An Annual Conference Conversation

What exactly is Annual Conference, and why does it matter to our local church?
In this episode of Between Sundays, Torri sits down with Pastor Brad to recap the 2026 Michigan Annual Conference. Together, they reflect on the theme Love Boldly, share highlights from the week, discuss meaningful moments of worship and connection, and explore how the work of the wider church impacts ministry right here at Jackson First United Methodist Church.
www.firstumcjackson.org
https://2026.michiganumc.org/
www.umc.org 
 

Rest is Spiritual

What does it mean to truly rest in a world that never seems to slow down? In this episode of Between Sundays, we explore the gift of rest as more than simply taking a break—it's a spiritual practice woven into God's design for our lives.
Join us as we talk about Sabbath, burnout, busy schedules, and the invitation Jesus offers to find rest for our souls. We'll discuss why rest is not a reward for finishing everything on our to-do list, but a way of trusting God, renewing our spirits, and creating space to hear His voice.
Whether you're feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a reminder to slow down, this conversation offers encouragement and practical ways to embrace rest as part of your faith journey.

Finding Your Place...Without Overcommitting

Getting involved in church life is a beautiful thing—but sometimes our desire to help can lead us to saying "yes" to everything. In this episode of Between Sundays, we explore what it means to find your place in the life of the church without stretching yourself too thin. We talk about spiritual gifts, serving with purpose, healthy boundaries, avoiding burnout, and how God often calls us to faithfulness—not busyness. Whether you're looking for where to plug in, feeling overwhelmed by commitments, or wondering if it's okay to step back and rest, this conversation offers encouragement for discovering a sustainable way to serve and grow.
Because finding your place in the church isn't about doing more—it's about being where God is calling you to be.

Growing Up in Church Together

This episode is a nostalgic and heartfelt conversation between Torri and her sister about what it was like growing up deeply rooted in church life. From choir rehearsals and Christmas programs to church hallways that felt like a second home, the episode reflects on the moments, people, and experiences that quietly shaped their faith and who they became.
Together, they explore the beauty and complexity of growing up in the church, how their shared experiences impacted them differently, and why community, service, and faith still matter in adulthood. Honest, warm, and full of familiar memories, this episode is for anyone who has ever called the church part of their story.

Called...But Not Burnt Out

What does it mean to be called… without running yourself into the ground?
In this episode, Torri explores the tension between wanting to serve and feeling stretched too thin. Together, we unpack the difference between faithfulness and exhaustion, and how to step into purpose in a way that’s actually sustainable.
If you’ve ever felt unsure where you fit—or hesitant to step in because you’ve been overwhelmed before—this conversation offers both encouragement and permission.

Raising Faith That Lasts

What does it really look like to raise kids and teenagers in faith today?
In this episode of Between Sundays, Torri sits down with our Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries to talk about the heart behind the ministry—and why it’s about so much more than Sunday mornings.
Together, they explore what faith formation looks like at every age, the real challenges families are facing, and how the church can come alongside parents and caregivers in meaningful ways. This conversation is full of practical encouragement, honest moments, and a reminder that you don’t have to have it all figured out to make an impact.
Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, volunteer, or someone who simply cares about the next generation—this episode will remind you that the small, everyday moments matter more than you think.

The Quiet Middle of Mother's Day

Mother’s Day isn’t always loud or picture-perfect. Sometimes, it lives in the quiet middle—the space where joy and grief, gratitude and longing, all sit side by side.
In this episode, I share a gentle reflection for anyone who finds themselves in that in-between space. Whether you’re celebrating, grieving, waiting, or simply showing up the best you can, this is an invitation to pause and remember that God meets you right here.
Even in the quiet. Even in the unseen.
You are not alone in the middle.