March 2026 – UMC.org Podcasts

Before they were recognized, they were leading

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As our yearlong “Women in Methodism” series continues on “Un-Tied Methodism,” Dr. Ashley Boggan talks with historian Dr. Ellen Blue about the Methodist women, deaconesses, and mission leaders who fed the hungry, served immigrants, built institutions, shaped social work, and pushed the church toward change. Their work was often dismissed, their records were often lost, and their leadership was often resisted, but their witness helped turn the world upside down.

Explore the United Methodist General Commission on Archives and History at ResourceUMC.org/ArchivesandHistory.

“Rooted Methodism,” the follow up to the popular “Radicle Methodism: Back to our Roots,” is now available. Check out this deep dive into the our denomination at ResourceUMC.org/ArchivesandHistory/Rooted-Methodism.

Listen to other episodes of “Un-Tied Methodism” at UnTiedMethodism.org.

[176] A practice to listen from the heart

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Compass Podcast host Ryan Dunn walks us through Lectio Divina—meaning “divine reading”—an ancient contemplative practice that goes beyond simply reading sacred texts. Together, we’ll learn how to gently engage with scripture, reflect on what stands out to us, and respond through prayer and contemplation. And it’s not just about reading; we’ll discover how this approach can be applied to music, art, and even poetry, opening our hearts to the sacred everywhere we look.

(00:00) Introduction to Lectio Divina
(05:10) Guided walkthrough with Romans 8:6-11
(10:49) Exploring alternative contemplative practices
(13:04) Where to find show notes and additional episodes

Don’t miss Rev. Ryan Dunn’s practical tips on improvising spiritual practices for daily life, and listen for highlights on using music, imagery, and fiction books as sources for divine connection.

🔗 Full show notes & resources: umc.org/compass

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[175] Moving beyond spiritual neutral with Roger Ross

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Reverend Roger Ross unpacks what it means to move from being a “kinda Christian” to a committed disciple. Through this episode of Compass, we explore the difference between just being a church member and living as a true follower of Jesus, and learn practical steps to deepen your spiritual journey, especially when you hit those invisible “spiritual walls.”

Reverend Roger Ross is a pastor, church planter, and founder of The Humility Group. His book, “Kinda Christian: From Curious to Serious about Jesus”, guides seekers and seasoned believers alike toward a deeper life with God. Roger’s broad experience in local churches—from Texas to the British island of Guernsey—fuels his passion for spiritual growth, genuine faith, and community transformation.

(00:00) Breaking Through Spiritual Walls
(05:19) Defining discipleship in action
(09:13) More than sin management
(11:50) Following in the early church
(13:46) Identifying our blind spots
(16:49) Small, connected communities
(20:21) The value of a solitude practice
(24:58) Stages of the journey of faith
(29:19) Through the wall to growth

Find out more and explore other episodes of Compass: www.umc.org/compass