Sometimes the best leadership lessons come from stories you didn’t expect. In this episode, Ben Borgman and Craig Etheredge sit down with Kaleigh Farnan, stepping into her first full-time ministry role, and Tommy Adams, reflecting on a year of growth since completing the Cross Creek Residency.
Together, they share honest insights about the challenges, surprises, and God-sized moments that come with hands-on ministry training. From discovering their calling to navigating the twists and turns of leadership (including a residency love story along the way), you’ll hear how investing in leaders transforms lives and multiplies disciple-makers.
Whether you’re leading a church, exploring your next step, or simply want to see how God shapes ordinary people for His mission, this conversation will encourage and challenge you to lead with intentionality.
Overview:
- 00:00 “Exploring Cross Creek Residency Value”
- 04:31 Faith Journey at Cross Creek
- 08:40 “Navigating Ministry and Finance”
- 09:53 Seminary Residency Experience
- 15:18 Servant Leadership and Care
- 17:07 “Combining Learning and Action”
- 20:46 Smooth Transition from Resident to Associate
- 25:04 “Disciple Making Leader Podcast”
Discussion Questions:
- Why do you think people sometimes hesitate to go into church leadership, even when others affirm those gifts in them?
- How did the structure of the Cross Creek residency, blending learning with practical, hands-on experience, impact the residents’ preparation for ministry? Do you think this is more effective than traditional classroom-only models?
- Both Kaleigh and Tommy mentioned “aha moments” in ministry. Why are these significant in the disciple-making process, especially for youth and young adults?
- How can church leaders better demonstrate care for their teams and congregations?
- What were some unexpected lessons or skills Kaleigh and Tommy gained during their residency? How did these prepare them for real-world ministry challenges?
- Why is it important for future leaders to experience both the positive and the difficult sides of church work?
- The episode mentioned the value of learning about practical areas, such as budgeting and event planning, for ministry. How do these skills contribute to successful disciple-making leadership?
- With ministries focusing on both high school and middle school students, what unique challenges and opportunities might arise, according to Kaleigh’s experience?
- What role did mentorship and coaching play in the residency program? How did it support personal and spiritual development for the participants?
- How important is community and relational support in spiritual growth and leadership development?
