Outside the Sanctuary

About Outside the Sanctuary

Outside the Sanctuary is Immanuel Baptist Church's weekly invitation to step beyond Sunday morning and into conversations that feel real, warm, and wonderfully unscripted. The show blends humor, honest reflection, and thought‑provoking topics, all wrapped in a relaxed atmosphere that makes listeners feel like they've pulled up a chair among friends. Each episode leans into what matters most: genuine relationships with people, with community, and with Jesus. Guests join often, adding fresh stories and perspectives, and the topics range from everyday life to deeper questions of faith, always with a lightness that keeps things engaging. After the heart of the show comes the heartbeat of the hosts. Bill Merkh brings easygoing charm and the occasional detour into The Beatles or Pearl Jam. Katrina McDonald offers a grounded, compassionate, motherly perspective that deepens every discussion. Pastor Vince McDonald might take listeners on a nostalgic trip through Maple Shade, NJ, weaving hometown memories into spiritual insights. Dr. Marc McCleary adds a thoughtful blend of medical insight and the lived experience of a veteran, giving conversations a depth that's both practical and personal. Steve Entwistle shows up as the everyman, relatable, humble, and armed with a surprisingly deep knowledge of Scripture that sneaks up on you in the best way. Lisa Merkh brings a heart for women's ministries, offering wisdom and encouragement shaped by her passion for helping women grow in faith and community. And Pastor Greg Ginion rounds out the team with the perspective of a pastor who isn't afraid to talk honestly about ministry, calling, and the real-life challenges of shepherding people. Together, they make Outside the Sanctuary a place where faith feels approachable, conversations feel alive, and listeners feel genuinely connected.

Publisher

William Merkh

Category

comedy · religion & spirituality

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Jan 2025

Latest episode

27 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

91 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   27 Oct 2026

   Debunking Myths and Misconceptions

   Every one of us grew up believing things that turned out not to be true. From classroom lessons that missed the full story to popular phrases we've always assumed were in Scripture, myths and misconceptions have a way of shaping how we think. In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Marc McCleary, Vince McDonald Jr., Steve Entwistle, and Bill Merkh take a closer look at some of the most common misunderstandings we've learned throughout life. With plenty of humor, personal stories, and engaging discussion, the team explores why certain myths persist and what happens when we discover the truth behind them.The conversation doesn't stop with history books and schoolyard facts. The hosts also dive into some widely accepted beliefs about the Bible that may surprise listeners. Are there popular sayings we assume are biblical that aren't actually found in Scripture? Have traditions and assumptions sometimes overshadowed what God's Word really says? Join the crew as they separate fact from fiction, challenge long-held assumptions, and encourage listeners to think critically about what they believe and why. It's an entertaining and insightful episode that will have you questioning what you've always thought was true, both inside and outside the sanctuary.

2. 

   20 Oct 2026

   The Hidden Costs of a Negative Mindset

   In this thought-provoking episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Katrina McDonald, Keeley Smith, Lisa Merkh, and Bill Merkh take an honest look at the negative effects that can impact us as human beings in today's fast-paced and often overwhelming world. From stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion to the ways unhealthy habits and negative influences shape our thoughts and behaviors, the hosts explore the challenges many people face but rarely discuss openly.Through engaging conversation, personal insights, and practical perspectives, the panel examines how these struggles affect our relationships, faith, mental well-being, and sense of purpose. Listeners will be encouraged to reflect on their own experiences while discovering healthy ways to recognize, address, and overcome the negative forces that can hold us back. Don't miss this meaningful discussion on Outside the Sanctuary, where real conversations inspire growth, understanding, and hope.

3. 

   13 Oct 2026

   The Power of Being Intentional in Everyday Life

   Join the hosts of Outside the Sanctuary, Marc McCleary, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh, as they sit down with Ramon Gonzalez for an inspiring conversation about living with purpose and intentionality. From becoming a better spouse and prioritizing physical fitness to making healthier choices and deepening your relationship with God, Ramon shares practical insights for creating meaningful habits that transform everyday life. Tune in as the team explores the importance of prayer, reading the Bible, and pursuing spiritual growth with intention in every stage of life.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.8 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

8 ratings

Contact Outside the Sanctuary

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.