In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Darren Wolfe, the administrative pastor at First Baptist Melbourne. Darren shares his remarkable 17-year journey in the corporate world, transitioning across various global locations, and how his path ultimately led him to pastoral ministry. Join us as we dive into his faith journey, family life, and the divine timing that guided his steps. From early ministry days of serving in youth groups to overseeing major church projects, Darren's story is a testament to following God's call with authenticity and dedication.

**Episode Highlights:**

- Darren's 17-year tenure with Harris and his relocations to New York, Colorado, the UK, and Canada.

- His initial steps towards faith, sparked by attending church with his now-wife, Amy. - Involvement in the local church's youth department and leading one of the first life groups.

- Transitioning from a corporate career to becoming an administrative pastor at First Baptist Melbourne.

- The significance of authenticity and using relationships to share God's message.

- Darren's pivotal moment of declining a huge corporate position to follow God's calling to ministry.

- Recent completion of a significant church building project and seeing God's hand in the process.

- Advice for discerning God's calling: prayer, scripture reading, and taking leaps of faith.

**Resources Mentioned:**

- "Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg

**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 stories of faith-filled lives.

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.

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Becky Uhlar, whose passion for grandparenting and mission work has led her to inspire and equip grandparents to leave a legacy of faith across generations. Becky shares her involvement with the GPS ministry at First Baptist Melbourne and the importance of older adults actively preparing the next generation for a faith-filled life. Join us as Becky dives into her journey and mission to serve through everyday acts of love and spirituality.

**Episode Highlights:**

- Discussing barriers and roadblocks in the 55+ community participation in mission work

- The significance of older adults staying active in faith and preparing the next generation

- Insight into the GPS ministry and its launch on National Grandparents Day

- Importance of leaving a legacy of faith for grandchildren

- Becky's personal experiences as a grandmother and her influence on her family

- Recommendations for resources on intentional biblical grandparenting

- The role and impact of grandparents in their grandchildren's lives

- Encouragement for listeners to seek out and embrace ministry opportunities

**Resources Mentioned:**

- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg

- "Biblical Grandparenting" by Josh Malva Hill

- "Equipping Grandparents" book

- Grandparenting Matters course

**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 different 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.

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting Connie Ricks, a devoted member of the missions committee at First Baptist Melbourne. With an impressive 26 years of experience in church ministry, including 21 years with Baptist Collegiate Ministries, Connie brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for missions to the conversation. Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, from her first mission trip with her family to her current involvement in the Port Canaveral Seafarers Ministry and her family's ongoing commitment to serving in Panama.

Episode Highlights:

- Connie's lifelong passion for missions, ignited by her first mission trip with her family to a seafarer center in New Orleans

- The importance of taking the first step in missions and ministry, whether in Florida, North America, or internationally

- Connie's involvement in the Port Canaveral Seafarers Ministry, providing meals, worship, and support for seafarers

- The cultural integration of mission trips and the universal applicability of the gospel - Overcoming personal roadblocks, such as health challenges, through faith and finding a Christian cancer treatment center in Tijuana, Mexico

- Engaging children in mission work from a young age and the importance of family involvement

- The impact of COVID-19 on mission trips and the need for flexibility and adaptability in ministry

- The role of mentors and influences in shaping one's calling and commitment to missionary work

Resources Mentioned:

- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg - A recommended read for those exploring their calling and interest in missions

**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.