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Seeking a Cure With Selfless Motivation
Dr. Samson Amos has always been driven by something deeper than personal success; his heart beats with a genuine desire to bring healing and hope to others. Growing up in Nigeria, he witnessed firsthand the ravages of diseases like sickle cell anemia and malaria. The suffering around him fueled his resolve to dedicate his life to pharmaceutical research, but for Dr. Amos, it was more than a professional calling; it was a mission to alleviate human pain and suffering.
After earning his doctorate in pharmacology, Dr. Amos returned home to visit his family. It was during this trip that a moment would forever shape his path. He heard a cry from a neighbor’s house, and when he went to check on her, he discovered the woman was battling breast cancer. She pleaded with him to help other women like her. That poignant encounter added cancer to the growing list of battles Dr. Amos was determined to fight.
Today, as a leading researcher in natural product pharmacology at Cedarville University, Dr. Amos works tirelessly to search for potential cures alongside his students. His passion doesn’t just stop at science — he mentors his students, teaching them to blend academic rigor with a spirit of compassion, inspired by his faith.
In a quiet lab tucked away in the Ohio countryside, Dr. Amos and his students work steadily. Though the ultimate cure for cancer may not come from their lab, the seeds of hope and determination they plant together could very well inspire that future breakthrough. It’s the kind of selfless passion that defines Dr. Amos and the legacy he is building — one life, one discovery, and one student at a time.
Listen to this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast to hear the remarkable story of Dr. Samson Amos and the compassion that fuels his work.
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https://youtu.be/sCr1f3kapsU
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A Full Circle Life
Born prematurely at just 24 weeks and weighing under two pounds, Hayley Good began her life struggling for each minute of her life. With a heart defect and underdeveloped lungs, her prognosis in 2002 was grim.
The first two months of Hayley’s life were marked by tragedy for her family. First, they lost Hayley’s twin sister. Shortly thereafter, Hayley underwent a precarious surgery on her tiny heart that was successful and led to an extended stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) at both Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Ohio State Medical Center.
Fast-forward to 2024, and Hayley’s life has come full circle — a blessing she shares in this week’s episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
In May 2024, Hayley proudly graduated with a degree in nursing from Cedarville University and accepted a position in the same NICU where she received critical care as a premature infant: Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. This story garnered national attention when it was showcased on CBS Evening News.
Throughout her life, Hayley has always been aware of the circumstances surrounding her birth, and from an early age, she held on to the belief that God had a purpose for her struggles. Part of that purpose became clear when she was unexpectedly given the chance to share her inspiring story and the message of the Gospel on a national platform.
Hayley continues to embrace God’s plan as she brings her personal experiences, encouragement, and compassion to families facing challenges similar to her own.
Tune in to the Cedarville Stories Podcast to discover Hayley’s incredible journey of survival and unwavering faith.
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https://youtu.be/uEDnLu4O52g
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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Resting in God’s Grace
“The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.”
These poignant words are among the most renowned utterances of Job, the emblematic figure of faith in the Bible. This was his reaction upon learning of the tragic loss of all his children in a single natural catastrophe.
While few can truly comprehend the extent of Job’s sorrow, Daniel Foster and his wife Breeze have faced similar heartache. In this week's episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Daniel recounts his journey of finding solace in God's grace through life's peaks and valleys
God has bestowed numerous blessings upon Daniel. He earned his degree in electrical engineering from Cedarville University in 2001, which led to a fulfilling career as a civilian defense contractor for the United States Army. Through this divine provision, he also met and married Breeze, with whom he has been blessed with six healthy children.
The Lord has also taken away.
Over a span of two years, Daniel and Breeze have navigated a tumultuous path of loss and emotion. In 2017, they mourned the passing of their daughter Willow, who left this world 36 weeks into Breeze’s pregnancy, and they faced the heart-wrenching news that Breeze might not be able to conceive again.
Just over a year later, their joy returned with the arrival of Ember, whose sweet spirit brought light to their lives, only for tragedy to strike again. A few months after her birth, she was diagnosed with a rare genetic illness that ultimately claimed her life.
Through these trials, Daniel and his family have maintained a steadfast faith in God and His grace which has supported them during their darkest hours. This unwavering belief has even inspired Daniel to pen a book, “Waiting for Peace,” aimed at encouraging others to hold on to the goodness of God's grace.
Tune in to learn more about the Foster family's extraordinary journey of faith, which includes yet another unexpected blessing — the birth of their newest daughter, Zinnia Grace, alongside the joy of their first grandchild — as Daniel shares his compelling Cedarville Story.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/eea3e2e8
https://youtu.be/6EnPI0Kuuao
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A Biblical Worldview Behind the Badge
Ready for an inspiring listen? Meet Joel Misirian, a police officer whose journey began with a high school project in suburban Milwaukee, where he first discovered his passion for protecting and serving others. That one experience set Joel on a path that would shape his entire life and career.
Joel continued his journey at Cedarville University, where he pursued a degree in criminal justice, built lifelong friendships, and met his future wife, Sharon (Magin) Misirian ’97. Graduating in 1998, Joel left Cedarville with more than just a diploma; he gained a strong biblical worldview that would guide him in his future endeavors. Joel shares how this foundation has influenced his life and work on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
Now patrolling the streets of Troy, Ohio, Joel serves as a police officer with a unique mission: to share his faith in Jesus with everyone he encounters — even those who might not be thrilled to be in his patrol car. Whether it’s answering spiritual questions or playing Christian radio for his passengers, Joel sees every interaction as an opportunity to spread hope and truth.
Joel’s passion for Christian education was inspired by his father-in-law, the founder of Troy Christian Schools, who taught him that "the heart of education is the education of the heart." Joel carries this belief into his role as an adjunct professor and speaker at Cedarville’s summer criminal justice camp, where he educates future law enforcement professionals.
On the podcast, Joel talks about how he blends humility, authority, and hard work with the teachings of Jesus, showing that faith can shine brightly behind the badge. Tune in to hear more about Joel’s inspiring story and how he’s making a difference in his community one patrol at a time!
https://share.transistor.fm/s/28eb0b72
https://youtu.be/z8sxN4akW5o
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From Mascot to Global Worker
Energetic, enthusiastic, and excitable are top job qualifications for university athletic mascots. Jonathan Wu fit those descriptions as a college student in the mid 1990s.
Jonathan brought Cedarville University’s “Bee” to life from 1994–98, long before Stinger was officially named in 2017. He danced, cheered, and electrified the crowd at basketball games, and his outgoing personality helps him today as he builds relationships wherever he goes.
Jonathan’s vibrant persona and gift for connecting with people has taken him around the world as an educator. Get to know Jonathan and be encouraged by how he is using his energy for Kingdom work on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
While studying mechanical engineering at Cedarville, Jonathan joined other students on a short-term trip to China to teach English. Those few weeks planted seeds in Jonathan's heart that changed his life. Not only did the experience influence his current vocation, but he also met his wife, Rachel, on that trip. From there, the sparks of a lifetime calling to international work began to glow.
Since then, his spark for reaching people through teaching and building relationships has become a blaze. Jonathan moved his family to Asia more than a decade ago. There, he continues to teach while recruiting and mentoring recent college graduates through the Global Ambassador Program.
Learn more about the joys of building cross-cultural relationships, the challenges of international living, and the excitement of seeing people find hope as Jonathan tells his Cedarville Story.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/ec9a4479
https://youtu.be/lkWStI3N_a0
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Telling God How Much Our Heart Hurts
Reach out to God with a confident and worshipful heart, even amidst your pain. Gain insight into the art of lamenting from Alyson Punzi, who tragically lost her husband at the young age of 24 and is now guiding her preschool-aged daughter in placing trust in God within a broken world.
Following the sudden and devastating passing of her husband, Frank, to cancer in 2022, Alyson found herself having to explain to her two-year-old daughter that her daddy was gone — and he wasn’t coming home again. Alyson chose to be honest, instilling in her a sense of hope in God's grace.
Instead of being consumed by grief or turning away from God in anger, Alyson focused on the unwavering strength of Christ and His love as sources of light in the darkness of her loss. Recognizing that grief would remain part of her life, she made the conscious decision to hold onto God as her constant and steadfast companion.
Drawing from her personal journey and that of her daughter, Alyson has written a book, “He Always Hears,” with the hope of teaching young children the value and importance of lament. The book is scheduled for release by Crossway in April and is focused on teaching children how to talk to God in times of hurt and loss — similar to the hurt and pain felt by Alyson and her young daughter.
For more insights into Alyson's journey and the scriptural practice of lament, tune in to her candid discussion on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/af732973
https://youtu.be/jwfvVbfr5VQ
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Learning to Lament: Trusting God in a Broken World
When college sweethearts Frank and Alyson Punzi married in 2018, they envisioned a life filled with joy as they raised a family and served Jesus with their gifts and abilities.
Two years later, after the birth of their daughter, this plan was in motion and life was good. Frank was serving the Lord as an associate pastor, and their daughter brought smiles to their faces.
In an instant, however, life took a dramatic turn. Vacationing in New Jersey, Alyson walked into their room to discover Frank, her 25-year-old husband, suffering from a severe stroke. In just a matter of weeks, Frank — who appeared to be healthy and vibrant — was diagnosed with cancer.
Alyson’s life turned upside down without any notice.
Despite the pain, uncertainty, and grief that engulfed them, Frank and Alyson clung to their faith in God. Throughout the testing and treatment, they found the strength to face a broken world through their unwavering trust in Jesus — all the way to Frank’s final breath.
In the midst of unspeakable pain and sorrow, they sought solace in praising the Lord and standing firm in their faith. They took comfort in knowing they were never alone and in crying out to the ever-present God.
In this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, Alyson shares how she learned to lament through her pain, even as she was leading her very young daughter who just lost her daddy.
Alyson's story is a testament to her unwavering faith as a young widow and single mother, leaning on Jesus just as she did during the turbulent days of Frank’s cancer and ultimate passing. Her story of learning to lament will inspire others to trust in God's guidance and companionship through life's toughest trials.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/c91bb1de
https://youtu.be/rlbQA_EV3zQ
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A Passion for the Church
Get ready to be inspired by a life lived with purpose and passion. In this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast, we dive into the world of Dr. Jeremy Kimble, a man whose enthusiasm for life and dedication to his faith are nothing short of contagious.
As a Professor of Theology and the Director of the Synergy Initiative at Cedarville University, Jeremy doesn’t just teach — he lives his beliefs out in every aspect of his life. Whether he’s conquering the rapids of the Grand Canyon or tackling a 100-mile bike ride, Jeremy’s zest for adventure mirrors his approach to ministry and discipleship.
But it’s not just about thrill-seeking. Jeremy’s true passion lies in his work for the church and his commitment to raising up the next generation of leaders. As an author, devoted church member, and professor, he inspires those around him to deepen their faith, serve their communities, and spread the Gospel with courage and conviction.
Tune in to hear how Jeremy balances his personal spiritual growth with his mission to mentor others and how his efforts are making a profound impact on the Church. This episode is more than just a story — it’s a call to action for anyone looking to live a life of purpose and faith. Don’t miss the chance to experience Jeremy’s incredible journey and be motivated to pursue your own passions with the same vigor.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/739653a6
https://youtu.be/vIuK2_LHEU4
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The Generosity Monk, a Baseball-Loving Farm Boy
Dr. Gary Hoag, known as "The Generosity Monk," may not wear a monk's robe or embrace a vow of silence, but he finds deep fulfillment in spending solitary time with the Lord and is dedicated to empowering ministries worldwide through Christian generosity.
Discover how he became known as “The Generosity Monk” on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
Gary is a baseball-loving Ohio farm boy and graduate of Cedarville University. His goal as a young man was to be successful in business and have season tickets for the Cleveland Indians (now known as the Cleveland Guardians), just like his grandfather. God had different plans.
Gary was called into ministry, first in Christian higher education at Biola University, Colorado Christian University, and Denver Seminary, where he learned the value of holding his plans and possessions loosely. Trusting in the Lord's blessings became his intent, purpose and focus. Though he never secured those coveted Indians season tickets, Gary's obedience to God resulted in an unexpected blessing — annual tickets to the World Series!
He has generously shared that gift with more than 1000 baseball fans and has seen God work through the relationships built in the stands.
As the CEO and president of Global Trust Partners, Gary acts as “a conduit of the Lord’s blessings and a delivery boy with a message from God.” Through teaching on stewardship, he strengthens churches and ministries worldwide.
Gary is also a prolific author, a consummate family man, and a steadfast follower of Christ. Catch his infectious joy by listening to his Cedarville Story.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/56b39a52
https://youtu.be/2_8UpSHEx38
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Miracle Child is Wonderfully Made
While sitting in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), observing her newborn son and other premature babies fighting bravely for their lives, Melissa Gallagher was struck by the powerful truth that “these little ones were wonderfully made,” her words an echo of Psalm 139.
Melissa, who earned a degree in industrial and innovative design from Cedarville University, opens up about her own miracle child — Hudson — on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. Although there were challenging moments, Melissa and her family became cheerleaders for families dealing with the challenges of premature birth.
She learned how to embrace every small victory. In watching the tiniest babies achieve milestones in their struggle to survive, Melissa discovered how to inspire and uplift others who faced similar challenges to those she and Hudson encountered. Just seeing Hudson get swaddled for the first time sparked a brilliant idea.
Drawing from her education in design and entrepreneurship, her talent in watercolor art, and firsthand experience as a mother of a premature baby, she brought forth a new business, Wonderfully Made. This company is dedicated to creating swaddles and clothing with tailored watercolor art for the most delicate and precious infants.
Through this venture, her goal is to bring hope and encouragement through her personal story, shed light on the NICU journey, and spread optimism for life beyond the NICU.
Walk with Melissa through her experience and catch her infectious desire to encourage others as she tells her Cedarville Story.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/6a06ad6b
https://youtu.be/hUrnUUaLa0o
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Attention Sports Fans!
Sports are Jeff Gilbert’s passion. What started as a hobby of cutting out sports stories from newspapers and magazines and crafting his own narrative for each story has blossomed into a thrilling career as the beat reporter for the Ohio State Buckeyes football team and assistant professor of journalism at Cedarville University.
In this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast, Jeff steps up to the plate to share his journey of painting word pictures to tell stories from the gridiron, basketball court, baseball fields — and much more.
His secret to writing compelling stories has been his curiosity — always being fascinated with asking unique questions that leads the reader past the obvious and into some behind-the-scenes information. In fact, Jeff believes the greatest attribute of a gifted journalist is their curiosity, something that he developed through his 20-year journalism career.
Jeff's approach isn't just about the game; it's about capturing the pulse of the crowd, the heartbeat of the athletes, and the spirit of the moment. His Christian worldview infuses his work, adding a dimension that elevates his storytelling to new heights.
Whether diving into his passion with the Buckeyes, covering local athletes, or looking for stories that bring a person’s faith in Jesus to light, Jeff's reporting is a slam dunk.
Join us as we step into the press box with Jeff Gilbert on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.
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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mJpft56F5Gg
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Go Big or Go Home
Growing up in the rural countryside near Lafayette, Indiana, Dr. Trent Rogers, the Dean of the School of Biblical and Theological Studies and Associate Professor of New Testament and Greek at Cedarville University, has always embraced the mindset of giving his best or not bothering at all.
Hear his story or join him in the studio on this week’s Cedarville Stories Podcast.
Hailing from a background where hard work was valued, Trent stood out as a high school athlete who always played to win, whether he was on the football field or running hurdles on the track.
Not surprisingly, Trent’s dedication to giving his all spilled over into his preparation for a career in Christian ministry. During his time in college, he delved deep into the study of ancient and classical Greek language and literature, believing that if he was to teach the Bible, he should be able to read it in its original language. This unwavering commitment to his calling drove him to pursue graduate and post-graduate degrees.
Even as he immersed himself in his studies, Trent maintained an active lifestyle and pushed himself to excel in different arenas. He took up powerlifting and went on to break three bench press world records, including an impressive lift of 670 pounds in 2008.
Before finding his way to Cedarville, Ohio, where he has been serving for the past decade, Trent’s unique combination of academic pursuit and strength training led him to work as a personal trainer for professional athletes like Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls and Devin Hester of the Chicago Bears.
To discover more about how Trent’s unwavering commitment to excellence has been a guiding force in his life and work, tune in to his inspiring Cedarville Story.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/3c16681a
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Crossing the Big Ocean in a Little Boat
How long would it take to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands near Africa to Antigua in the Caribbean Sea? “Team Foar Brothers,” consisting of Thomas, Trent, and Tim Hamilton along with their nephew, Ben Clark, did it in 37 days, 10 hours, and 55 minutes.
Discover more about their incredible journey of completing The World’s Toughest Row as Thomas returns for his second appearance on the Cedarville Stories Podcast. Then watch their exhilarating finish line video to get a glimpse of what it was like to row a little boat across the big ocean.
During their expedition on the open sea, the team faced numerous challenges, including towering waves, relentless rains, the endless expanse of salt water, continuous physical exertion, and being constantly tossed around. It truly tested their endurance, yet they persevered through their unity, the unwavering prayers of their loved ones, and their faith in the Lord. Despite the daunting obstacles, they managed to cross the finish line successfully.
The journey for the Cedarville University alumni was not only a personal accomplishment but also a fundraising initiative, raising nearly $57,000 for Send Relief, a Baptist mission supporting Afghan refugees.
While they found fulfillment in making a positive impact on others, they also reaped personal rewards. They were able to witness the beauty of God’s creation, the vastness of His universe, and the constant presence of His embrace. Even in the isolation of the ocean, without seeing any signs of human life for weeks, they found solace in the knowledge that they were never truly alone.
Tune into Cedarville Stories Podcast and join them on their journey across the sea!
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Enduring Friendship
People move, life stages change, interests shift, and friendships fade or slip away. However, every now and then, two individuals develop an unbreakable bond and grow closer despite the ups and downs of life. A prime example of such a friendship is that of Cedarville University alumni Erika Weise and Carrie Holt, who are featured guests on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
They first met as singles at their local church and quickly formed a friendship that was infectious. As they both got married, their husbands became good friends, and the couples began having children who also caught the friendship bug.
This portrayal of lives intertwined in the beauty of friendship is heartwarming, but the story of Erika and Carrie goes even deeper, revealing how friendships are truly a blessing from God during challenging times.
Both women have gracefully navigated the challenges of raising a medically fragile child with special needs, leaning on each other for support every step of the way through hospitalizations, surgeries, joys, sorrows, and the unpredictable nature of each day.
Through it all, they and their families have persevered, and now their eldest children (one of whom has defied all odds) are on the verge of graduating from Cedarville University, just like these proud moms.
Join these exceptional families on their unwavering journey in the Season 11 inaugural episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
Check out this clip in anticipation of next weeks follow-up episode with Thomas Hamilton as he shares about his rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/af6e36b0
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Adventure on the High Seas
Embark on a daring odyssey with Thomas Hamilton on this weeks Cedarville Stories Podcast. Hamilton, along with two brothers and nephew Ben Clark, opt for a glorified rowboat as they seek to conquer the relentless forces of the Atlantic Ocean.
Picture this: 3,000 miles from the tip of Africa to the Caribbean Island of Antiqua, facing 20-foot waves, relentless sprays of salt, hunger, and scorching heat. This isn't your typical ocean cruise — it's a test of endurance, perseverance, and faith.
In the heart of the tempest, Thomas and his crew will navigate the unpredictable waters, forging bonds of brotherhood and confronting the raw elements. This audacious journey, set to kick off in mid-December, may stretch up to seven weeks, dictated by the whims of the weather.
For the Hamilton brothers and Ben, this isn't just an adventure; it's a crucible of personal development, sibling camaraderie, and spiritual renewal. Brace yourself for the most impactful voyage of their lives.
Don your virtual life preserver and join us on this podcast as we navigate the treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean with Thomas Hamilton. And fear not, the results of their adventure will be featured in season 11 of the Cedarville Stories Podcast!
https://share.transistor.fm/s/1a9ae9d8
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An Unexpected Job Offer
Jim and Teresa Clark left Cedarville University in the same way they entered it--together.
They retired at the end of the 2023-24 academic year but before leaving they remembered their journey on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
The Clarks were settled in Fort Wayne, Indiana. They had lived there for 21 years, had just bought their dream home, and were confident this was where the Lord wanted them.
But, although man may have plans, the Lord orders his steps. During a weekend visit to Cedarville University with their daughter during a Little Sibs Weekend, the Clarks got reacquainted with their alma mater. Teresa had often visited Cedarville with her high school volleyball teams that she coached in Fort Wayne.
But this visit took a different turn than the rest.
She was approached by Elvin King, the women’s cross-country coach, following a match, who asked her to follow him to Athletic Director Don Callan’s office. There, Teresa was asked to apply for the head volleyball coach position — which was currently vacant.
Even though she and Jim, were not convinced Cedarville University was where the Lord was leading them, she applied. Teresa even came for an on-campus interview, which she felt went poorly.
But the Lord opened a door for the Clarks. Jim secured a position in the admissions department while Teresa was leading the Yellow Jackets volleyball team. And, now, 27 years later, the Clarks have left quite the legacy. Teresa's final position of service was as the faculty-athletics representative, and Jim ended his career as the assistant sports information director.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/795b92c5
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A Man With a Purpose
After leading students at Cedarville University to worship the Lord for 40+ years, Jim Cato has retired. Celebrate his story on this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
Jim Cato quickly learned as a young man that his skills were better used off the field than playing football. So he tried Bible college, which didn’t work out either, and he eventually dropped out.
But after getting married, he and his new wife learned about this small school called Cedarville College in Ohio. They packed up their belongings and moved to Ohio, before even applying or knowing where they were going to live.
Jim went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in music, still without any clue of what he wanted to do with his life — or how he would use a degree in music. But the Lord began opening doors, including the opportunity to lead a music team on a missions trip to Australia.
Shortly after, a position became available in Cedarville’s Christian Ministries department. The position was focused on training music teams to travel and minister overseas. Even with Jim’s limited experience, he got the job — and he’s never left!
Jim has faithfully served with Christian Ministries for over 40 years, including taking various trips with Global Outreach, including one providing hurricane relief after Hurricane Harvey.
And, instead of solely ministering to the residents in Houston who were affected by the hurricane, in the end, Jim was the one who needed care.
After a few days of working in homes with Cedarville students, Jim began to experience headaches. But these were not his typical headaches, as the pain increased each day.
Eventually, the pain led Jim to wake up his roommate in the middle of the night and ask to be taken to an emergency room. And the trip to the hospital proved challenging, as neither the driver nor Jim knew Houston well enough to navigate the trip.
After being rushed to the hospital, and doctors performing a battery of tests, Jim learned that he had a brain tumor that needed to be removed immediately.
As Jim outlines, not only did he find a hospital to care for him, he went to the hospital best known in Houston for brain surgeries. Only God could direct Jim’s path this perfectly.
After several days in the hospital, Jim returned to Ohio, and the Lord used that time to strengthen his faith and reinforce his purpose — to worship God and teach others to worship Him.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/1646140c
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Dick Walker: A Cedarville Legacy
Dick Walker, the father of Getting Started Weekend, passed away on February 9, 2024. Remember his legacy with this episode of the Cedarville Stories Podcast.Dick Walker served at Cedarville for 42 years, arriving at the University in 1970. His first job at Cedarville? Assistant food service manager. But he is best known for his 40 years in student life and campus activities, serving as a resident director, Dean of Men, Director of Campus Activities, and finally in the Office of Alumni Relations.
He had a huge impact on the lives of hundreds of students. One of his most enduring contributions was the creation of Getting Started Weekend, which is a signature weekend of events on campus each year.
Driven by his desire to see new students welcomed and feeling at home at Cedarville, Dick began Getting Started Weekend, now one of the most highly anticipated events on the campus calendar.
On Commencement weekend, 2018, Dick was surprised with a very special honor: a new university residence hall would be named in his honor. Walker Hall is located across from the Doden Field House and Fitness Recreation Center.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/e3c0e12c
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Cyclones and C-Sections
It was a whirlwind morning for Allison and Brandon Williams when they awoke on Wednesday, February 28. They knew this was the day they would meet their third child, but what transpired leading up to Allison’s delivery was totally unexpected.
In fact, to this day, they realize it was a blur, a story they recount on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
The couple was anticipating an early-morning cesarean section. However, chaos ensued when a tornado blew down their street, delaying their trip and turning a 15-to-20-minute drive into an hour-and-a-half journey to the Springfield hospital.
In the predawn hours, the couple sought refuge in their basement, praying for the safety of their neighbors and nearby family as the tornado wreaked havoc on their countryside neighborhood.
Once the storm passed, Allison and Brandon ventured out amidst the chaos to find a route to the hospital, experiencing a roller coaster of emotions at seeing the damaged houses that filled their neighborhood.
These emotions turned to joy later in the day when they welcomed their third daughter, Darcy — or, as her grandfather would call her, “Dot,” short for Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/b539cafd
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Unexpected Blessings
Life is filled with unexpected blessings, a reality not lost on Cedarville University rising junior Viv Wheeler.
Originally from Guatemala, Viv was born to a mother who was unable to care for her, leading to her being put up for adoption. She was quickly selected by a couple who began the process of making her their own, only to encounter difficulties that once again left Viv alone. However, each of these hardships were part of God’s great plan to shower her with blessings and opportunities.
Viv was ultimately adopted by the Wheelers, a loving family in Portsmouth, Ohio, who had been praying for the child destined for them by God. She grew up being loved by her parents, fishing with her dad, and preparing for a bright future, one that was again directed by the unexpected. As a junior in high school, she received a college mailer from Cedarville University that would guide the next steps of her journey.
Intrigued by the campus community and the school's mission to glorify Jesus Christ, Viv felt drawn to pursue a degree in primary education and speech pathology.
Driven by her desire to impact children's lives positively, Viv volunteered for an international mission trip to Guatemala to teach English. Little did she know that this trip would result in a profound reunion with her birth family thanks to God's intricate plan.
Meeting her birth family for the first time was both thrilling and nerve-wracking for Viv. However, she discovered a family that cared deeply for her, especially her birth mother, who had fervently prayed for her every day. With the joy of being embraced by two loving families and the assurance that God had been guiding every step of her journey, Viv feels grateful for the unexpected twists and turns that have led her to where she is today.
Join Viv as she shares more about her extraordinary journey and her aspirations for the future on the Cedarville Stories Podcast.
https://share.transistor.fm/s/487780cd
- Visa fler
