Gird Up! Podcast

Have you ever wondered what truly happens during Holy Communion and why it matters so deeply? In this episode, we are joined by John Bombaro to explore the profound theological significance of the Eucharist, its roots in the ancient Catholic tradition, and how a renewed understanding can transform our worship and faith life.00:00 - Introduction to the significance of the Eucharist in Lutheran faith01:23 - The personal journey of John Bombaro from Catholic roots to confessional Lutheranism03:05 - Why the Lord’s Supper is often the center of doctrinal differences09:00 - Christology as the foundation of sacramentology vs. Christ-centeredness11:53 - The importance of continuity with Catholic and Orthodox sacramental traditions14:31 - The theological basis for the real presence and sacramental union23:00 - The importance of liturgical integrity and the threat of liturgical drift27:56 - The role of uniformity, tradition, and church authority in Lutheran worship34:31 - Restoring reverence, decorum, and beauty in the

In this conversation, Victor Veith, a prominent figure in child advocacy, discusses the intersection of faith and child protection. He shares his journey into child advocacy, the impact of vicarious trauma on professionals in the field, and the church's historical indifference to child abuse. Victor emphasizes the importance of education, both for the church and for individuals, in addressing and preventing abuse. He also explores the spiritual wounds inflicted on victims and the need for churches to create safe environments for children. The conversation touches on corporal punishment, the lessons from Martin Luther's experiences, and the dangers of internet pornography, ultimately calling for a proactive approach to child protection within faith communities.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Child Advocacy and Faith08:14 The Impact of Trauma on Faith13:32 The Church's Indifference to Child Abuse22:03 Cognitive Dissonance and Child Abuse27:42 The Need for Community Awareness33:20 Corporal Punishment a

In this episode, we delve into Flame’s transformative journey from Christian hip hop to confessional Lutheranism, discussing how theology intersects with cultural expression and the importance of doctrinal testing and community. Flame shares insights on race, church history, apologetics, and cultivating unity across diverse communities.Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Flame: Faith, Hip Hop, and Theology00:42 - Flame’s background and upbringing in Milwaukee1:12 - How Flame’s musical journey began with edutainment1:51 - Sharing the gospel through music and books2:37 - Flame’s transition from Reformed to Lutheran theology6:41 - The deconstruction process and testing doctrinal ideas9:46 - Impact of church history and the Reformation on Flame’s faith12:37 - Crisis of assurance and the saving work of Christ for all16:40 - Engaging culturally diverse communities and cross-cultural ministry22:53 - Addressing false teachings and false doctrines in church33:40 - The role of confessional Lutheranism and church history in

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes George Hogan, a student at Martin Luther College and an accomplished organist, to discuss the significance of liturgy and music in the Lutheran tradition. The conversation begins with George's background in theater and music, highlighting his passion for the organ and its role in worship. They explore the value of young people engaging in the arts, particularly theater, and how it fosters discipline and public speaking skills. As the discussion shifts towards church music, George emphasizes the importance of the organ in leading congregational singing, arguing that its unique sound and historical significance make it an irreplaceable instrument in worship settings.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Gird Up Podcast03:22 Meet George Hogan: A Passion for Music07:21 The Value of Young People in the Arts12:19 George's Journey into Playing the Organ21:06 The Historical Significance of the Organ in Worship26:42 Why the Organ Should

SummaryIn this episode of the GirdUp Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Pastor Ben Sadler about his new book, The Meaningful Life. They explore the rise of pastors writing books, the importance of finding meaning in work, and how secular wisdom can complement Christian faith. The discussion delves into the crisis of meaning in modern society, the significance of vocation, and the role of discernment in reading. They emphasize the four-part story of creation, fall, redemption, and renewal, and how understanding this narrative can provide purpose and direction in life. The episode concludes with practical insights on bringing order to chaos and the eternal significance of our actions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Grit Up Podcast and Guest Introduction03:51 The Rise of Pastors as Authors06:44 Exploring the Meaning of Life09:44 The Role of Viktor Frankl in Understanding Meaning12:39 Using Secular Resources in Christian Life15:45 The Crisis of Meaning in Modern Society18:33 Find

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages with Pastor Mark Parsons, the Executive Director of Truth and Love Ministry, to discuss the challenges faced by young Christians today, particularly in relation to Latter-day Saints (Mormons). They explore the nature of Mormonism, the importance of understanding Luther's Bondage of the Will, and the role of good works in the Christian faith. The conversation emphasizes the need for spiritual resurrection, the dangers of self-righteousness, and the importance of dependency on Christ for salvation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Girt Up Podcast02:51 Understanding Truth and Love Ministry05:49 The LDS Community and Christian Witnessing08:39 Are Mormons Christians? A Theological Discussion11:04 The Bondage of the Will: Luther's Perspective14:03 The Importance of Free Will in Salvation16:56 Agency vs. Bondage: A Deep Dive19:36 The Role of Works in Faith22:32 Conclusion and Reflections on Grace38:39 The Burden of Self-Righteousness43:21 U

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach and guests engage in a lighthearted discussion about Christmas traditions, reflections on the incarnation, and the significance of community. They share personal experiences, toast to the holiday season, and play a fun game of 'Naughty or Nice' regarding various Christmas customs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of light during the Christmas season and the joy of celebrating together as a community. In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore the themes of love, historical significance, and the enduring spirit of Christmas. They discuss the emotional impact of the holiday, the historical context of the Hagia Sophia, and the pivotal moments in American history, such as the Crossing of the Delaware. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by Christmas celebrations throughout history, including the Puritan ban on Christmas. The hosts share humorous Hallmark movie pitches and engage in a lively trivia game, all whil

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Brian Stecker about his new project, Memento, which aims to recapture and revitalize Christian disciplines, particularly for men. They discuss the importance of accountability, the historical practices of the church, and the balance between justification and discipline in the Christian life. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentionality in spiritual growth and the role of fasting and other disciplines in developing a robust Christian life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Guest Introduction01:16 Exploring the On The Line Podcast04:05 Introducing Memento: A Movement for Christian Men09:16 Understanding the Memento Program and Its Structure13:36 Building Accountability and Fraternity in Memento18:21 Defining Spiritual Disciplines and Habits in Memento26:40 Historical Expectations of Biblical Knowledge29:01 The Role of Prayer in Christian Life30:11 Asceticism and Its Misunderstandings32:41 Safeguards Agains

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach and his guests, Pastors Isaiah Duff, Jacob Klug, and Chester Reinemann, discuss the challenges faced by Christians during the holiday season, particularly around Christmas. They explore the pressures of maintaining a joyful facade, the impact of mental health on holiday experiences, and the importance of intentionality in celebrating Advent. The conversation emphasizes the need to focus on the true meaning of Christmas and offers practical suggestions for celebrating the season in a way that honors Christ.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast and Mission02:23 Guest Introductions and Context of Ministry10:44 Navigating the Holiday Season: Challenges and Realities16:11 The Impact of Family Dynamics on Christmas22:19 Cultural Shifts in Christmas Celebrations33:43 The Importance of Intentional Devotion During Advent44:47 Incorporating Worship into Advent Celebrations49:36 Family Traditions for Advent and Christmas54:12 Redeeming Secular

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages with Pastor Johnny Lehmann to discuss the challenges young men face in finding their identity through a Christian lens. They explore the concept of Christian masculinity, the influence of the Manosphere, and the importance of community and accountability in the journey of faith. The conversation emphasizes the need for young men to seek their identity in Christ rather than in societal expectations or checklists, highlighting the significance of the theology of the cross and the role of confession and support from fellow believers.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast and Mission02:46 Exploring Christian Masculinity: The Journey Begins08:17 The Struggles of Young Men: Identity and Purpose15:17 Perfectionism and the Quest for Masculinity18:34 The Manosphere and Its Influence on Men25:03 Ancient Rome and Modern Masculinity30:47 The Checklist Mentality: A False Sense of Security38:05 Dying to Self: The True Path to Masculinity44:

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Pastor Greg Lyon of Wisconsin Lutheran College about the challenges young Christians face regarding sexuality and identity. They explore the role of pastoral care, the impact of purity culture, and the importance of healing and forgiveness in Christ. The discussion emphasizes the need for honest conversations about sexuality, the significance of building trust in relationships, and the journey towards emotional and spiritual healing. Ultimately, the episode highlights the centrality of identity in Christ and the call to live a chaste life while fostering meaningful connections.Chapters00:00 Introduction to GirtdUp Podcast and Mission03:07 Understanding the Role of a Campus Pastor07:01 The Intersection of Pastoral Care and Therapy13:16 Navigating Sexuality and Christian Identity19:15 The Impact of Purity Culture on Young Christians24:48 The Depth of Sexual Sin and Its Consequences30:50 Spiritual and Emotion

SummaryElise Gross of Academia Cristo is on the podcast this week. In this conversation, Elise discusses her journey in urban education and ministry, reflecting on the limited options she perceived for women in service roles. She emphasizes the need for more diverse opportunities in ministry that go beyond traditional roles, encouraging women to explore their unique gifts and serve in various capacities. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast and Mission04:02 Elise Gross: A Journey from Teaching to Missionary Work10:13 Reevaluating Life and Ministry: A Personal Reflection15:52 Navigating Gender Roles in Ministry20:57 The Humbling Experience of Being an Assistant Teacher23:32 Growth and Change: From Ambition to Humility25:27 The Role of Women in Ministry: A Conversation28:16 Transitioning to Academia Cristo: A New Mission34:12 Understanding Academia Cristo's Mission and Structure38:15 Empowering Women in Ministry: Stories from the Field41:27 Cultural Observations: American vs. Latin American Perspective

SummaryIn this special Thanksgiving episode of the Gird Up Podcast, the guys dive into the history, traditions, and cultural quirks of the holiday. From Goose’s passionate defense of turkey to Connor’s hilarious Thanksgiving horror stories, they explore how the celebration has evolved, why food matters, and how gratitude builds real connection. They also dig into presidential traditions, draft their favorite dishes, and debate non-traditional meals. The episode rounds out with animated characters they’d invite to dinner, Thanksgiving “heroes,” post-dinner activities, iconic songs, a trivia showdown, and a few genuine moments of gratitude to wrap it all up.Chapters00:00 Thanksgiving BroCast Introduction02:33 The Turkey Monologue: A Thanksgiving Tradition05:34 Courage and Connection: The Thanksgiving Spirit07:50 Canadian Perspective on Thanksgiving10:38 The Real Story of Thanksgiving13:12 Evolution of Thanksgiving Celebrations15:59 Forgotten Thanksgivings: A Historical Perspective18:54 Presidential Traditions a

SummaryIn this conversation, Rev. Dr. Adam Koontz shares his transformative journey into Lutheranism, detailing his initial hesitations and the profound discoveries he made during his catechesis. He reflects on the alignment between Lutheran teachings and biblical scripture, emphasizing how this realization deepened his faith and understanding of Christianity. He discusses the significance of understanding one's faith and the role of pastors in effectively conveying God's teachings to their congregations.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast03:39 Meet Reverend Dr. Adam Koontz04:09 Adam's Unique Faith Journey06:29 Cultural Christianity and Its Impact13:31 The Search for Truth in Secularism19:19 The Role of Technology in Mental Health26:51 Experiencing the Transition to Christianity31:48 Encouragement for Young Christians35:14 Finding a Home in the Lutheran Church40:35 The Journey of Discovery in Faith42:01 Understanding Lutheranism in Pennsylvania47:17 The Importance of Lutheran Identity55:02 The Role

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes Pastor Matt Doebler, a missionary in Australia, to discuss the pressing issue of spiritual apathy among Christians. They explore the biblical story of Gideon as a metaphor for the journey from feeling like a 'nobody' to recognizing one's identity in Christ. The conversation delves into the importance of repentance, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the need for a purposeful life rooted in the Gospel. They also discuss the balance between self-improvement and faith, emphasizing that true meaning comes from an eternal perspective.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Mission02:09 Introducing Pastor Matt Doebler and His Work03:21 Exploring Spiritual Apathy and Its Implications06:20 The Connection Between Gideon and Spiritual Apathy08:25 The Gospel of Luke: A Focus on Nobodies09:40 Understanding Jesus' Call to Discipleship12:09 The Weight of Following Jesus13:43 The Comfort of the Gospel Amidst Apathy17:53 Living in the Tensi

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages with Andrew Marotta, a veteran educator and leadership coach. They discuss the importance of maintaining a strong Christian faith in education, the journey from considering the priesthood to becoming a school leader, and the significance of family and community support. Andrew shares insights on leadership, self-control, and the value of mentorship, while emphasizing the need for positive school culture and the role of parents in supporting educational institutions. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt story about Andrew's father, highlighting the impact of personal connections and the importance of expressing appreciation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Mission01:53 Guest Introduction: Andrew Marotta's Background03:43 Exploring the Priesthood: Andrew's Journey07:35 Family Values and Prioritizing Dinner Time11:02 Overcoming Limited Mindsets and Pursuing Opportunities14:40 Identifying and Pursuing Goals18:26 Th

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Paul Wendland, a Lutheran theologian, about the pressing issues surrounding gender and sexuality in today's culture. They explore the cultural shifts that have led to a redefinition of gender identity, the church's role in addressing these issues, and the importance of compassion and empathy in conversations with those struggling with their identity. Dr. Wendland emphasizes the need for a supportive community and the significance of grounding one's identity in Christ amidst the challenges of modern society.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast and Mission02:17 Understanding the Cultural Landscape of Gender and Sexuality12:11 The Rise of LGBTQ Awareness and Identity17:45 Navigating Truth in a Confused Culture30:35 Compassion vs. Integrity in Conversations about LGBTQ Issues36:31 Navigating Truth and Relationships42:46 Long-Term Witness and Compassion44:29 Social Interactions and Christian Witnes

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach welcomes Pastor Jacob Klug to discuss the significance of Martin Franzmann's hymnody and the value of beautiful words in articulating Christian faith. They explore the role of art and poetry in the church, the importance of men in leadership roles, and the concept of the church militant. The conversation emphasizes the need for a bold and beautiful expression of faith in a world filled with challenges, encouraging listeners to engage deeply with their beliefs and the arts.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gird Up Podcast02:13 Welcoming Pastor Jacob Klug07:32 Exploring Martin Franzman and His Significance16:30 Diving into Hymns: Thy Strong Word18:38 The Value of Beautiful Words in Christianity23:27 Articulating Faith Through Poetry29:14 The Role of Context in Sharing the Gospel35:15 The Intersection of Beauty and Theology38:40 The Search for Beauty in a Broken World41:24 The Beauty of Human Existence44:04 The Wisdom of the Cross46:18 The Power of

SummaryIn this episode of the Gird Up podcast, host Charlie Ungemach speaks with Grace Ungemach about her journey as a pastor's wife in Cincinnati, the importance of church marketing, and the unique challenges and opportunities in urban ministry. They discuss setting boundaries in ministry life, the role of personal branding, and how women can find meaningful roles in church beyond teaching. Grace shares her insights on navigating social media and the significance of having a clean and accessible church website. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Girt Up Podcast02:35 Meet Grace Ungemach: A New Journey03:44 Life in Cincinnati: Community and Ministry05:16 Navigating the Role of a Pastor's Wife07:13 Urban vs. Rural: The Appeal of City Life09:40 The Challenge of Being a Pastor's Partner13:31 Adjusting to Life as a Pastor's Wife15:38 Setting Boundaries in Ministry19:12 Finding Contentment in Challenges22:45 The Importance of Courage in New Ventures24:32 Grace's Business: Church Marketing Solutions28:06 The Role of Aest

In this episode of the Gird Up Podcast, host Charlie Ungemach sits down with Dan Van Voorhis — teacher, historian, and host of the Christian History Almanac. Together they explore the importance of church history, the role of the Lutheran church today, and the future of Christianity in a changing world.Dan shares why hope matters, how diverse church traditions can enrich our understanding of the faith, and why knowing the past helps us live faithfully now. The conversation also touches on the hidden lives of faithful pastors, what makes historical Christian leaders influential, and how tools like AI can help in research and ministry.Chapters00:00 — Introduction & Support for Gird Up 01:23 — Meet Dan Van Voorhis: A Journey in Podcasting 03:40 — The Christian History Almanac: Daily Exploration 05:39 — The Unique Sign-Off: A Message of Hope 10:09 — “Everything Is Going to Be Okay” 13:07 — Why Studying Church History Matters 16:32 — Fascinating Figures Through the Ages 20:01 — Exploring Diverse Church Traditi