- 17
- Episodes
- Bi-weekly
- Cadence
- 2024
- First episode
About Baptist Bridges
Welcome to Baptist Bridges, the podcast where faith meets dialogue and connection! Join Executive Minister, Leanne Friessen, of the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec (CBOQ) as we explore what it means to be part of the Baptist community. From contemporary issues to timeless truths, this podcast offers thought-provoking discussions and reflections through a lens of faith. Whether you're a lifelong Baptist or simply curious, Baptist Bridges is your place to engage, learn, and grow. Stay tuned as we journey together, building bridges of understanding and unity!
- Publisher
- CBOQ
- Category
- religion & spirituality
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 11 Oct 2024
- Latest episode
- 12 Oct 2026
Latest episodes
17 episodes in the feed.
12 Oct 2026
Prayer Walking
What does it look like to pray with our eyes open to the people, places, and needs around us? In this episode of Baptist Bridges, host Rev. Leanne Friesen sits down with Rev. Cid Latty to explore the practice of prayer walking – an intentional way of connecting prayer with the communities we live in and serve. Together, they reflect on how walking and praying can help us slow down, notice what God is doing around us, and become more attentive to the people and places God has called us to love. Whether you’re new to prayer walking or looking for a fresh way to deepen your prayer life, this conversation offers practical encouragement for taking prayer into our neighbourhoods and everyday lives. Show Notes: Learning to Prayer Walk Guide (https://baptist.ca/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Prayer-Walking-Guide.pdf) Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity/) Website: baptist.ca (https://baptist.ca/)
21 Sept 2026
Prayer and Discernment
In this episode of Baptist Bridges, host Rev. Leanne Friesen is joined by Dr. Joyce Bellous for a thoughtful conversation about prayer and discernment. Together, they explore how we learn to recognize God’s leading, the difference between discernment and quick judgment, and the role of prayer, Scripture, and self-awareness in listening well. Their conversation also turns to the life of the church: how congregations can discern together, how we recognize what is, and is not, of God, and what it might mean for our churches to become places of genuine safety, hospitality, prayer, and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit. Along the way, Joyce offers a simple question with profound possibilities: “How can I pray for you?” Join Leanne and Joyce for a thoughtful and practical conversation about learning to listen, resisting judgment, paying attention to God’s character, and becoming communities where prayer and discernment are woven into the way we live together. Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity/) Website: baptist.ca (https://baptist.ca/)
7 Sept 2026
Creating a Church Culture of Prayer
What does it look like for prayer to become more than something we simply add to our meetings, worship services, and ministry plans? What happens when prayer becomes part of the culture of a church—shaping how we listen, lead, discern, and respond to God? In the first episode of Season 3 of Baptist Bridges, host Rev. Leanne Friesen is joined by Pastor Juan Carlos Ortiz and Rev. Dr. Ken Foo for a conversation about what it means to cultivate a genuine culture of prayer in our churches and in our own lives. Together, they explore the difference between simply believing prayer is important and actually allowing prayer to become foundational to the way we lead, serve, and do ministry. Join Leanne, Juan Carlos, and Ken for a conversation about creating a church culture of prayer. Show Notes: • How prayer changed Redeemer Baptist Church (Iglesia Bautista El Redentor), where Juan Carlos Ortiz serves as pastor (https://vimeo.com/1196082112/757f0e94f4?share=copy). • Rev. Dr. Ken Foo’s study through the Book of Acts on the theme “And Then They Prayed” (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1kRKsYOCIvZKDLCR7jQiitVlhERgLjPCr/view). Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity/) Website: baptist.ca (https://baptist.ca/)
10 Jul 2025
Caught in the Current (with Dr. Sam Reimer)
Welcome to a special episode of Baptist Bridges, recorded live at Brock University during CBOQ Assembly’s Pastor’s Day! In this conversation, we’re joined by Dr. Sam Reimer, sociologist and author of Caught in the Current: British and Canadian Evangelicals in an Age of Self-Spirituality (https://www.amazon.ca/Caught-Current-Canadian-Evangelicals-Self-Spirituality/dp/0228016967/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0). We dive into what’s happening in our culture, why people are “deconstructing” their faith, and how belonging might matter more than apologetics. Plus: the rise of the “nonvert,” why relationships are everything, and how the church can still be a place where people meet God—even if they don’t start by calling it that. Whether you’re a pastor, parent, or just trying to make sense of the spiritual shifts around you, this one’s for you.
8 Apr 2025
Faces Of CBOQ: Meet Our New Ordinand
In this special episode, our Executive Minister, Leanne Friesen, sits down with Rev. Laura Salakandu, one of our newest ordinands, to hear her powerful and inspiring testimony. Laura shares her journey of faith, calling, and the moments that led her to this new chapter in ministry. Whether you're discerning your own call or simply in need of encouragement, Laura’s story is a moving reminder of God’s faithfulness and the courage it takes to say “yes.” Notes: You can view photos and video from Laura's ordination here (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16SjBwbo5N/). Children & Family Certificate Training Program (https://www.cboqkids.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/cfmctp-2025-overview-and-schedule.pdf). Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Curtis Lai & Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
25 Mar 2025
Politics And The Pulpit (Re-Release)
A few weeks ago, we released an episode of our podcast called "The Politics and the Pulpit." With the current political realities happening around us, we felt it was timely to release this episode again. Our Executive Minister, Rev. Leanne Friesen, recorded a special message to start the episode for all of you leading in these days. Part of her message states: "Pivot from believing or suggesting that our hope will be found if we just get the right person "on the throne." Christ is on the throne. Christ is the one we follow and in whom we place our hope. You are pastoring such challenging times and we are thankful for you. Know of our prayers for you. Know that you are seen, and do not underestimate the importance of your calling in this time and this place. Preach well, dear friends, and know that God is with you." In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division. Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Kevin Loten (https://www.chartwellchurch.com/about/our-team) Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
18 Mar 2025
Should We Sabbatical?
In this episode of Baptist Bridges, host Leanne Friesen is joined by guests Rev. Dr. Ken Foo and Curtis Lai to explore the importance of sabbaticals for pastors. They share personal experiences, discuss the biblical foundation of sabbaticals, and address common misconceptions, such as guilt, identity struggles, and church concerns. The conversation highlights how sabbaticals prevent burnout, strengthen leadership, and benefit entire congregations. Whether you're a pastor considering a sabbatical or a church leader wondering how to support one, this episode offers valuable insights on rest, renewal, and trusting God in ministry. Notes: Leanne mentioned that she wrote some pieces on her blog about Sabbatical, including one about the ephod (https://leannefriesen.com/2018/08/10/picking-up-the-ephod-am-i-ready-to-return-from-sabbatical/). Here is a piece she wrote (https://leannefriesen.com/2018/04/23/spend-the-gift-card-already-or-why-i-found-it-hard-to-accept-a-four-month-sabbatical/) about struggling to take Sabbatical. Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Curtis Lai & Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
25 Feb 2025
Disability And The Church
How can churches become truly inclusive communities for people with disabilities? In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith, accessibility, and belonging. Our guest, Rev. Dr. Stephen Bedard, shares personal experiences, challenges, and insights on how churches can move beyond accommodation to full participation. From practical steps to theological reflections, this conversation invites leaders and congregations to rethink what it means to be the body of Christ—where every member is valued and empowered. Tune in for an honest and hopeful discussion on breaking barriers and embracing diversity in our church communities. Notes: Here is an article (https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1121&context=ought) Stephen wrote on importance of online services for accessibility and how that opens up new opportunities for disabled people. Additional resources: www.disabilityandchurch.com (http://www.disabilityandchurch.com/) Stephen's X (formally Twitter) account: @stephenbedard10 Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Stephen Bedard Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
4 Feb 2025
More Than Babysitters
Are today’s youth and young adults just the "future of the church" or vital leaders for today? How can churches empower youth and young adults to lead meaningfully? In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Leanne Friesen is joined by Alvin Lau, CBOQ's Youth Ministries Associate, and Tejay Morley, a young leader from North Burlington Baptist Church, to explore how mentorship and trust can transform the next generation of church leaders. Alvin shares insights on breaking stereotypes about Gen Z and Gen Alpha and creating meaningful leadership opportunities, while Tejay tells his inspiring story of turning a bold idea into a thriving youth-led ministry project. Discover practical ways your church can invest in and equip young people to make a lasting impact. Don’t miss this engaging conversation! Notes: CBOQ Youth Website (https://cboqyouth.ca) Micro Grants (https://baptist.ca/micro-grants/) Avalanche (https://cboqyouth.ca/experiences/avalanche/) and Blizzard (https://cboqyouth.ca/experiences/blizzard/) youth retreats Camp Kwasind Leaders In Training (L.I.T.) (https://kwasind.com/lit/) Young Leaders Collective (https://youngleaderscollective.ca) RightNow Media CBOQ offer (https://mailchi.mp/baptist.ca/rightnowmedia-exclusive-offer-cboq) Bible in 30 Minutes Play (https://youtu.be/OffkFNjaB_I?si=w1UmSK4gB2eXrgvw&t=2537) that Tejay directed Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Alvin Lau and Tejay Morley Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
21 Jan 2025
Politics And The Pulpit
In this episode of Baptist Bridges, Kevin Loten joins the conversation to explore the complexities of preaching in politically charged times. We discuss the challenges of addressing sensitive topics from the pulpit, maintaining the balance between spiritual guidance and political engagement, and respecting the diversity of opinions within congregations. Whether you're a pastor, church leader, or someone interested in the intersection of faith and politics, this episode offers valuable insights for fostering unity in the midst of division. Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Kevin Loten (https://www.chartwellchurch.com/about/our-team) Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
7 Jan 2025
Faith Beyond Sunday School
Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. In our first episode of Baptist Bridges for 2025, Faith Beyond Sunday School, Tanya Yuen sits down with two experts in family discipleship, Christie Thomas and Ken Foo, as they dive into the real challenges families face when it comes to spiritual growth at home. From time constraints to feeling overwhelmed and kids’ disinterest, these challenges are familiar to so many. But you will learn that small, intentional steps can make a big difference! Christie shares practical, easy-to-implement ideas that any family can use to incorporate faith throughout the week. Plus, she talks about her new book, Little Habits, Big Faith, and why simple practices can lead to deep, lasting spiritual growth in your family. Ken also discusses the crucial role of churches in supporting parents and reshaping ministries to help families thrive. Whether you’re a parent, pastor, or anyone passionate about growing faith in families, this episode is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable steps that will empower you to take your spiritual journey beyond Sunday school. Listen now to discover how you can help your family grow in faith with simple, everyday habits that make a big impact. Notes: • Little Shoots, Deep Roots (https://littleshootsdeeproots.com/): Christie Thomas' ministry that empowers parents to nurture their children's faith. • Christie Thomas' most recent book: Little Habits, Big Faith: How Simple Practices Help Your Family Grow in Jesus (https://www.amazon.ca/Little-Habits-Big-Faith-Practices/dp/1641587679) • Toronto Children's Ministry Conference (https://torontochildrenministryconference.ca/) Connect with us: • Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) • Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) • Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Tanya Yuen Guests: Christie Thomas and Ken Foo Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
3 Dec 2024
Christmas Is For Pastors, Too
In today's bonus episode, our guest is Sharlene MacLennan, a registered social worker and practicing therapist who specializes in mental health and addiction. Sharlene shares insights on self-care strategies for ministry leaders and discusses her work supporting clergy, non-profit workers, and others in high-demand roles. Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experiences as a pastor's kid, Sharlene offers valuable advice on navigating the Christmas season with resilience and grace. We encourage you to take time for yourself - prioritize mental health and seek support when needed during this season of giving and reflection. Resources: Our website provides some Mental Health Resources (https://baptist.ca/mental-health-matters/) that may be of interest to you. Advent playlist (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4rKx9QU2RrSVfCEYmsujQb?si=36fb7ad25a2c4ca6) - may these melodies remind you of God’s faithfulness and fill your heart with expectation as we prepare for the joy of Christmas. Come, Lord Jesus, come. Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guest: Sharlene MacLennan Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
26 Nov 2024
Ministering While Grieving
A message from our guest, Jeremy Ng: To the unnamed grievers. Although there is so much more about grief, both individual and corporate, that we could have talked about, the one thing I wished I had brought more attention to was unnamed grief. The grief that is not socially acceptable. The grief that is not allowed to be talked about openly. The grief that we don’t believe is real. Maybe, like I mentioned on the podcast, that it’s children who grieve, and people think they are simply too young to grieve, that they don’t understand what’s going on. It could be expectant parents who experience a miscarriage. It could be a death by a suicide. Sometimes, it’s just a really complicated relationship with that person, where it feels like they aren’t allowed to grieve. For so many reasons, grief can become unnamed, disenfranchised, it can be ignored, and the person is never seen, leaving them feeling further isolated and alone. Our learning includes being aware that grief can happen in all sorts of unexpected ways. Our response to grief is not based on whether we judge it to be valid or not, but by the experience of the griever going through it. Our invitation begins with simply being present, seeing people in their grief, and walking alongside them. Notes: In this podcast, Jeremy mentioned specifically about children’s grief and wanted to highlight the importance of children being included in the grieving process. Here are a few resources that he has found helpful in his work with the younger population: Children and Youth Grief Network (https://www.childrenandyouthgriefnetwork.com/) Canadian Virtual Hospice (https://www.virtualhospice.ca/en_US/Main+Site+Navigation/Home.aspx) Dougy Centre (https://www.dougy.org/) Addition Resource: Grieving Room: Making Space for All the Hard Things After Death and Loss (https://www.amazon.ca/Grieving-Room-Making-Space-Things/dp/1506492371/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3HTRSEZO3C2I5&keywords=grieving+room&qid=1704289025&sprefix=grieving+room%2Caps%2C134&sr=8-1) - a book written by our Executive Minister, Leanne Friesen. Blue Christmas Service (https://cbwc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/CBOQ-Blue-Christmas-Service-2023.pdf) - a service to make space for your grief at Christmas. Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Tracey Bagley and Jeremy Ng Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
12 Nov 2024
Ministry in our Small (and Mighty!) Churches
Today’s conversation takes us into the world of small churches, where our guests describe the distinctive rhythms and responsibilities of leading a smaller congregation. They talk about what church studies and conferences that usually focus on bigger churches often miss about small church life, as well as the multi-hat roles pastors often play and the hands-on tasks unique to small congregations. The discussion highlights the beauty of small church ministry, the depth of relationships, and the lessons new ministers need to embrace in order to thrive. Notes: Contact Tanya Yuen (https://baptist.ca/about-cboq/staff-directory/) Learn more about Small Church Connections (https://smallchurchconnections.com) On Naming "Small Churches": A few days after recording this episode, a number of our female clergy gathered for a Female Clergy Retreat. While introducing themselves, one of our pastors of a church of 20 or so congregants described her church as a "Boutique Church." Here is a description of a "boutique" store: "Boutiques are specialty shops that sell limited types of products. A large retail chain may offer clothing, makeup, hair products, and possibly even food all in one place. Boutiques operate in small spaces, so they must be more selective when ordering inventory." A boutique hotel is described as: "Small-capacity hotels that provide more personalized service than typical hotels." The women at our retreat loved this way to describe our small churches - focussing on the unique benefits and blessings of a small church. Ruth was eager to share this new term as part of our podcast! Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Ruth Bartlett, Ron Johnston, Michel Belzile Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario & Kristina Gummatova Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
31 Oct 2024
Intercultural Leadership
Earlier this season, we started by exploring the topic of pastoral shortages in CBOQ. We named that we have seen more churches struggling to find pastors in a season of great pastoral transition. In this particular podcast, we also discussed one of the exciting ways that we are seeing God move among us in the midst of this. We are seeing more and more pastors join our family who have come to us from other countries, and are now eager to serve in their new home in Canada. Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Kwasi Boakye, Dennis Johnson, Gabriel Araba Recorded & Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
18 Oct 2024
The Post-Pandemic Church
In today's episode, Leanne Friesen, Elden Faulkner, and Leaslie Makins explore how the pandemic has reshaped both the Church and their personal roles. They discuss the adjustments they’ve had to make and emphasize the significance of adapting to these new realities. The conversation also sheds light on the diverse experiences of churches and their ability to evolve and thrive despite challenges. Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Elden Faulkner, Leaslie Makins Recorded by: Josh Del Rosario Edited by: Kristina Gummatova
11 Oct 2024
Where Have All The Pastors Gone?
Today's podcast discusses the challenges of finding pastors for churches in the CBOQ and across Canada, including a shortage of pastors, pastors looking at different ministry avenues, and churches struggling to afford full-time pastors. Leanne Friesen, Cid Latty and David Williams, provide insights into the changing landscape of pastoral ministry, such as the need to rethink traditional expectations and models of pastoral leadership, and the importance of empowering the broader church community to engage in ministry. The conversation highlights the complex factors contributing to the "pastoral crisis," including stress, isolation, low salaries, and toxic church cultures. Notes: Barna Group Article (https://www.barna.com/research/pastors-quitting-ministry/) Connect with us: Instagram: @cboq (https://www.instagram.com/cboq/) Facebook: @cboqcommunity (https://www.facebook.com/cboqcommunity) Website: baptist.ca (baptist.ca) Credits: Host: Leanne Friesen Guests: Cid Latty, David Williams Edited by: Josh Del Rosario
Podcast Authority Score: 40 / 100
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- 91
- YouTube
- 0
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