Do movies actually reflect real-life ministry? Or do they miss the quiet tensions, complexities, and grace that leaders carry every day? In this episode of Rural Renewal, we take a different approach by reflecting on Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery. Beneath the mystery, the film raises questions about faith, leadership, public trust, and human frailty in close-knit communities. Whether you’ve seen the movie or not, this conversation invites you to think about how stories shape our understanding of church, calling, and renewal where life and faith intersect.

What if faithfulness in rural ministry isn’t about moving faster—but about listening longer?

In this episode of the Rural Renewal Podcast, we hear from PJ and Melanie, two co-pastors planting a church in southwestern Virginia who have learned to let prayer, patience, and presence set the pace. They share honestly about discerning God’s leading, choosing slowness in a culture that rewards speed, and remaining open to change—even when it’s uncomfortable or costly. Their story is a reminder that deep roots are formed through intentional prayer, trust in God’s timing, and the courage to adapt for the sake of the people God has placed before us.

What happens when a rural church leans fully into the gifts of its landscape and the passions of its people? In this episode, we sit down with Clint and Steph Pearsall to explore how their congregation is building community through simple, heartfelt hospitality—from their wildly successful Hunters Dinner that gathers neighbors across generations, to creative outreach like inviting a local game warden to Vacation Bible School to spark kids’ curiosity and connection to the outdoors. Join us for a conversation full of laughter, storytelling, and fresh hope for ministry in the everyday rhythms of rural life.