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.

• 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.

• “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg

• "Don't Waste Your Life" by John Piper

• Samaritan's Purse - Operation Christmas Child

• Psalm 96 Ministries

• 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.

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.

• 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.

• "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg - https://shorturl.at/WYGUW

• Psalm 117

• Visit our website at launchme.church

• Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel.

• Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.

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.

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.

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Carrie Friday, a media specialist teacher librarian at Melbourne High School and a dedicated member of First Baptist Melbourne. Carrie shares her awe-inspiring journey from classroom teaching to creating a vibrant and supportive environment in the school library, all while balancing the challenges of personal hardship and professional growth. Tune in to hear how Carrie utilizes her unique skills to serve her community, impact students, and inspire others to answer their call to make disciples.

**Episode Highlights:**

- Carrie's transition from teaching to becoming a school librarian

- How she engages with students and increases library attendance

- Balancing personal challenges with professional obligations

- Answering the call to make disciples in everyday life

- Overcoming feelings of being unqualified and embracing opportunities

- A teachers impact on students' academic success and personal growth

**Resources Mentioned:**

- "Is God Calling Me?" by Jeff Iorg

- First Baptist Melbourne's youth group and Fellowship of Christian Athletes

In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, we sit down with Donna Flora, an inspiring individual on the verge of a radical life shift. Donna opens up about her unique journey from adopting children from China to feeling called to international missionary work in a season of retirement. Tune in to hear how Donna navigates the complexities of family, faith, and answering God's unexpected call.

- The unexpected opening to missionary work prompted by conversations with leaders. - The varied skill sets the International Mission Board (IMB) accepts for missionary work. - The ongoing IMB application process and the associated tasks - Personal reflections about adopting children from China - Adjusting plans from early retirement to committing to a two to three-year missionary stint. - Practical advice on dealing with uncertainties about the future through prayer and guidance.

- “Is God Calling Me?” by Jeff Iorg • https://shorturl.at/T4mWQ - International Mission Board (IMB) • https://shorturl.at/IbRu4 - Discover workshop for aligning skills with serving God • https://FBCMel.info

- Visit our website at launchme.church - Follow us on Facebook & Instagram at @FBCMel. - Send us your thoughts and questions at info@fbcmel.org.

- 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 for more episodes as we explore more inspiring stories and dive deeper into the lives of individuals who are living out the mission God has for them.