HeavenEarth Podcast – Pastor Ross Stackhouse's Story”

In the inaugural episode of the “HeavenEarth Church Podcast” host Dr. Brad Miller sits down with Pastor Ross Stackhouse to explore his remarkable spiritual journey and the founding of Heaven Earth Church in Whiteland, Indiana. Ross Stackhouse, with his compelling narrative, sheds light on the powerful experiences and transformative moments that have shaped his life and ministry.

Takeaway 1: A Deep Spiritual Calling

Ross Stackhouse's spiritual journey began with a profound and transformative calling to dedicate his life to Jesus, inspired by John 15. Struggling to balance his academic ambitions and faith, Ross's path was marked by a tension between worldly achievements and spiritual fulfillment. This internal conflict set the stage for a journey of self-discovery and deepened faith.

Takeaway 2: From Academia to Ministry

Initially, Ross pursued a master's degree in New Testament studies at Vanderbilt University, aspiring to become a renowned scholar. His dream was to appear in National Geographic specials, showcasing a scholarly pursuit of Christian teachings. However, life had different plans. Following a series of manual labor jobs and a profound experience in therapy that helped address childhood trauma and reliance on achievements, Ross found his calling redirected toward ministry. His sister's spontaneous decision to send his resume to local churches led to an unexpected invitation from Saint Mark's in Carmel, Indiana, where his ministry journey truly began.

Takeaway 3: Overcoming Religious Trauma

Throughout his youth, Ross experienced religious trauma and often felt like an outsider in several religious settings. From the Church of Christ camp to Southern Baptist Bible studies, Ross grappled with feelings of hopelessness and rejection. His spiritual journey included a transformative understanding of Jesus, shifting from early depictions of a tyrannical figure to a vibrant, life-giving presence that transcends organized religion. This new perspective laid the foundation for the creation of Heaven Earth Church, aimed at welcoming those disillusioned by traditional religious institutions.

Takeaway 4: Founding and Growing Heaven Earth Church

Ross’s ministry led to the formation of Heaven Earth Church in Whiteland, Indiana. He, alongside his friend Justin Vance, launched the Emerging Ministries initiative, creating "The Current," a service designed to merge contemporary and traditional worship styles to engage younger and "de-churched" or "unchurched" individuals. The success of their efforts is evident through meaningful community impact and personal transformations within the church.

Takeaway 5: Personal and Community Transformation

Ross’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and affirmation. Moments like his audition sermon using two ladders as a metaphor marked a spiritual awakening, affirming his calling and energizing his pastoral journey. His experiences underline the importance of vulnerability, authenticity, and relationship-building in faith-based outreach, which have been pivotal in forming a nurturing community at Heaven Earth Church.

Listeners are encouraged to visit the Heaven Earth Church's website for more information and to join this inclusive and transformative faith community, especially if they feel disconnected from traditional religious settings.

The HeavenEarth Church Podcast

Welcome to the Heaven Earth Church Podcast, a place where everyone fits in, especially those who feel they don't belong in traditional religious settings. Emanating from the Heaven Earth Church in Whiteland, Indiana, this podcast intends to bridge the gap for anyone seeking connection and spiritual growth in a modern, inclusive environment. In this episode, Dr. Brad Miller provides a sneak peek into what listeners can expect from the Heaven Earth Church Podcast.

Episode Highlights

1. Inclusive Community and Welcoming Environment:

• One of the fundamental principles of Heaven Earth Church is inclusivity. HeavenEarth emphasizes that if you struggle with organized religion but are still interested in exploring spirituality and understanding Jesus' teachings, this podcast and the Heaven Earth Church are made for you. -Listeners will feel welcomed as Jesus did with people from all walks of life. The church aims to build relationships and offer a communal space for everyone, irrespective of their background.

1. Transformative and Action-Oriented Mission:

• The podcast underscores the transformative impact that Heaven Earth Church aspires to have on both individuals and the broader community. Focusing on core values such as responsibility and action, the church actively works to bring freedom to those burdened and downtrodden.
• Through this podcast, the church shares practices and messages that encourage listeners to know Jesus in a way that leads to actionable changes in their lives and communities, fostering long-term positive transformation.

1. Valuing Partnerships and Personal Growth:

• HeavenEarth Church highlights that the church values partnerships, not just within the congregation but extending to the community and beyond. This collaborative spirit aims to create a supportive network for listeners to rely on as they embark on their spiritual journey.
• Through the teachings of Pastor Ross Stackhouse and stories from various church members and leaders, this podcast will provide insights and guidance to help listeners take their next steps in their spiritual growth.

What to Expect in the Upcoming Episodes:

• In-Depth Messages
• : Listeners will gain deeper understanding through sermons and messages from Pastor Ross Stackhouse that resonate with modern life while staying true to the essence of Jesus' teachings.
• Personal Stories
• : The podcast will feature personal stories from congregants and community leaders, offering diverse perspectives and testimonies of faith and transformation.
• Community Engagement
• : Episodes will highlight the church's community work, showcasing how they live out their values in Whiteland, Indiana, and inspiring listeners to get involved in similar endeavors.

Conclusion The Heaven Earth Church Podcast offers a fresh perspective on spirituality, embracing people from all lifestyles and encouraging them to engage in community and personal transformation. Through a focus on inclusivity, action, and partnerships, the HeavenEarth podcast is not only spiritually enriching but also practically impactful. Be sure to tune in to hear from Pastor Ross Stackhouse and many others as HeavenEarth Church aims to help you take meaningful steps on your spiritual path.

Subscribe now to the Heaven Earth Church Podcast and join us in fostering a community where everyone is valued, and Jesus' love is shared widely.