EPISODE 36 22:46

Black History, the Gospel & the Call to Unity | Grace to Overcome – Coming August 19

Pastor Bryan Loritts joins Ricky Phillips to unveil his new book, Grace to Overcome: 31 Devotions on God’s Work Through Black History, releasing August 19. Each devotion weaves together biblical truth and snapshots of Black history—from abolitionist Olaudah Equiano and Olympic trailblazer Wilma Rudolph to cultural icons like Maya Angelou and innovators in science and technology—inviting empathy, unity, and seeing your story in God’s grace-filled narrative.

Pastor Bryan Loritts joins Ricky Phillips to unveil his new book, Grace to Overcome: 31 Devotions on God’s Work Through Black History, releasing August 19. Each devotion weaves together biblical truth and snapshots of Black history—from abolitionist Olaudah Equiano and Olympic trailblazer Wilma Rudolph to cultural icons like Maya Angelou and innovators in science and technology—inviting empathy, unity, and seeing your story in God’s grace-filled narrative.

Order his new book here:
Grace to Overcome: 31 Devotions on God's Work Through Black History

About Our Guest

EPISODE 35 44:35

Dr. Malcolm Foley

In this conversation, Pastor Bryan and Dr. Malcolm Foley explore the dynamics of multi-ethnic churches, emphasizing the importance of ethnic unity over mere diversity. They discuss the historical context of economic exploitation in America, its impact on racial dynamics, and the need for churches to address these issues. Dr. Foley highlights the role of historical figures in advocating for justice and the necessity of building communities of economic solidarity, creative anti-violence, and prophetic truth-telling as strategies to combat exploitation and promote unity within the church. We'll also explore the intersection of economics and faith, discussing the implications of capitalism and socialism within the church context. Emphasizing the importance of generosity and community support, while also addressing the church's role in economic justice. This dialogue highlights the need for Christian leaders to actively engage in these discussions and implement practical solutions to foster a more equitable society.

In this conversation, Pastor Bryan and Dr. Malcolm Foley talk about Dr. Foley's new book "The Anti-Greed Gospel" and explore the dynamics of multi-ethnic churches, emphasizing the importance of ethnic unity over mere diversity. They discuss the historical context of economic exploitation in America, its impact on racial dynamics, and the need for churches to address these issues. Dr. Foley highlights the role of historical figures in advocating for justice and the necessity of building communities of economic solidarity, creative anti-violence, and prophetic truth-telling as strategies to combat exploitation and promote unity within the church. We'll also explore the intersection of economics and faith, discussing the implications of capitalism and socialism within the church context. Emphasizing the importance of generosity and community support, while also addressing the church's role in economic justice. This dialogue highlights the need for Christian leaders to actively engage in these discussions and implement practical solutions to foster a more equitable society.

The Anti-Greed Gospel

About Our Guest

​Dr. Malcolm Foley is a theologian, historian, and pastor dedicated to advancing racial justice, equity, and reconciliation within Christian institutions and broader society. He currently serves as the Special Advisor to the President for Equity and Campus Engagement at Baylor University and as the Director of Black Church Studies at Baylor's George W. Truett Theological Seminary.

EPISODE 34 44:17

Stephen Newby

In this inspiring and insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Stephen Newby — award-winning composer, jazz musician, worship pastor, professor, and biographer — as he shares his remarkable journey from the National Baptist Church tradition in Detroit to winning Dissertation of the Year at the University of Michigan for his symphony on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Newby talks about his rich and diverse musical training in classical, jazz, and gospel music, and how God prepared him for ministry in a multi-ethnic church. He also discusses his upcoming biography on gospel music legend Andraé Crouch, exploring the impact of Crouch’s music and legacy on the church and beyond. Through personal stories and deep wisdom, Dr. Newby offers invaluable advice for aspiring worship leaders — from cultivating a life of prayer and studying Scripture to embracing mentorship and balancing artistry with pastoral care. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about worship, music, and building a beloved community in the church.

In this inspiring and insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Stephen Newby — award-winning composer, jazz musician, worship pastor, professor, and biographer — as he shares his remarkable journey from the National Baptist Church tradition in Detroit to winning Dissertation of the Year at the University of Michigan for his symphony on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. Newby talks about his rich and diverse musical training in classical, jazz, and gospel music, and how God prepared him for ministry in a multi-ethnic church. He also discusses his upcoming biography on gospel music legend Andraé Crouch, exploring the impact of Crouch’s music and legacy on the church and beyond. Through personal stories and deep wisdom, Dr. Newby offers invaluable advice for aspiring worship leaders — from cultivating a life of prayer and studying Scripture to embracing mentorship and balancing artistry with pastoral care. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about worship, music, and building a beloved community in the church.

Soon and Very Soon Biography

Dr. Stephen Newby

About Our Guest

Dr. Stephen Newby is an accomplished composer, conductor, gospel and jazz vocalist, and pianist. A native of Detroit, Michigan, he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Vocal Music Education and Flute Performance from Madonna College in Livonia, Michigan. He went on to receive a Master of Music in Jazz Composition and Arranging from the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, where he studied composition under the guidance of Robert Sutton, Frederick Tillis, Jeff Holmes, and Robert Stern. Dr. Newby later returned to his home state to pursue his Doctor of Musical Arts in Composition at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. During his doctoral studies, he worked with distinguished composers including William Albright, Michael Daugherty, George Wilson, Fred Lerdahl, and Pulitzer Prize winners William Bolcom and Leslie Bassett. Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Newby is deeply involved in worship and music ministry. He is the director of the Center for Worship and also leads the SPU Gospel Choir and the Worship Arts Ensemble. With more than 25 years of experience as a worship pastor, he has served congregations in Michigan, Massachusetts, Washington, and California.

EPISODE 33 33:25

Teddy Johnson

In this episode of the Kainos Podcast, host Pastor Bryan sits down with Pastor Teddy Johnson—a seasoned worship leader known for his transformative work at Hope Church in Las Vegas. With roots in Camden, New Jersey, Teddy shares his remarkable journey from a childhood steeped in church music to pioneering multi-ethnic worship ministry in one of the most diverse congregations he’s ever witnessed. Listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation about ethnic unity in the church, exploring how a primarily white worship environment can evolve into a vibrant, multicultural community. Pastor Teddy recounts his early days in a “chocolate church” and the personal challenges he faced stepping into leadership roles where he was often the minority, all while nurturing a spirit of inclusion and authenticity. He emphasizes that true unity begins with intentional relationships and courageous leadership—a principle that resonates deeply as Summit Church grows increasingly diverse. The discussion also spotlights the vital role of worship and music in bridging cultural divides and creating spaces where every language and nation is celebrated. This episode also highlights a few upcoming multi-ethnic Kainos cohorts hosted by Send Network, set to empower church leaders and congregations across Atlanta, St. Louis, and New York. Whether you’re a church leader, worship pastor, or simply passionate about fostering unity in today’s diverse mission field, this episode offers inspiring insights and practical wisdom for cultivating a gospel-centered community that truly reflects the beauty of God’s love.

In this episode of the Kainos Podcast, host Pastor Bryan sits down with Pastor Teddy Johnson—a seasoned worship leader known for his transformative work at Hope Church in Las Vegas. With roots in Camden, New Jersey, Teddy shares his remarkable journey from a childhood steeped in church music to pioneering multi-ethnic worship ministry in one of the most diverse congregations he’s ever witnessed.

Listeners are treated to an in-depth conversation about ethnic unity in the church, exploring how a primarily white worship environment can evolve into a vibrant, multicultural community. Pastor Teddy recounts his early days in a “chocolate church” and the personal challenges he faced stepping into leadership roles where he was often the minority, all while nurturing a spirit of inclusion and authenticity. He emphasizes that true unity begins with intentional relationships and courageous leadership—a principle that resonates deeply as Summit Church grows increasingly diverse.

The discussion also spotlights the vital role of worship and music in bridging cultural divides and creating spaces where every language and nation is celebrated. This episode also highlights a few upcoming multi-ethnic Kainos cohorts hosted by Send Network, set to empower church leaders and congregations across Atlanta, St. Louis, and New York.

Whether you’re a church leader, worship pastor, or simply passionate about fostering unity in today’s diverse mission field, this episode offers inspiring insights and practical wisdom for cultivating a gospel-centered community that truly reflects the beauty of God’s love.

About Our Guest

Teddy Johnson is the worship pastor at Hope Church in Las Vegas, NV, where he has made a significant impact over the years. Known for his dynamic leadership and authentic approach to worship, Teddy has served in this role for nearly two decades—evidence of his long-standing commitment to guiding congregants into a deeper worship experience. His background includes studying music education, with roots that trace back to Pennsauken High School and further refined at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ, equipping him with the technical and spiritual foundation needed for leading worship. Beyond his role at Hope Church, his influence extends into the broader ministry community; he is recognized as a mentor by fellow worship leaders and is involved with networks like the Experience Conference Ministry Team, where his expertise contributes to shaping worship ministry practices on a larger scale. Teddy Johnson’s ministry is characterized by a passion for authentic worship, a commitment to developing other worship leaders, and a dedication to fostering a worship environment that resonates with both the local congregation and the wider Christian community.

EPISODE 32 48:09

Michael Bethany

Pastor Bryan chats with Michael Bethany (awarding winning Christian singer/songwriter) about creating multicultural worship services and his love for the multiethnic church. We are going to spend our next several episodes diving into worship and what it looks like to lead a multiethnic church service. Worship is a major culture maker within the church of Jesus Christ and we are going to spend all of eternity worshipping our God and that worship will not be homogeneous.

Pastor Bryan chats with Michael Bethany (awarding winning Christian singer/songwriter) about creating multicultural worship services and his love for the multiethnic church. We are going to spend our next several episodes diving into worship and what it looks like to lead a multiethnic church service. Worship is a major culture maker within the church of Jesus Christ and we are going to spend all of eternity worshipping our God and that worship will not be homogeneous.

About Our Guest

Stellar Award nominated songwriter and two-time BMI Christian Song Award recipient (Fred Hammond’s No. 1 Billboard hit “They That Wait” and “Here In Our Praise”), Michael Bethany is passionate about creating multicultural worship experiences that activate an overflow of intimacy with God. His freshman independent album, Yours Forever, debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart. His latest Album, “Overflow,” released in partnership with Capital Rethink reached the #1 album on iTunes. Michael’s online worship experiences have received over 20 million YouTube Views and has been featured on prominent industry-leading media outlets like, Daystar Television Network, “The Basement” with Tim Ross, and CCM Magazine. Michael is highly sought after by Christian leaders from around the globe to mentor Worship Pastors, create effective systems for worship Departments, and lead congregations in transformational worship experiences. His executive leadership skills have been utilized to develop systems for multi-Campus Worship Teams, project manage multi-million-dollar production renovation projects, and execute major programming and events. As a creative leadership mentor, Michael founded, “Overflow Culture,” to empower Worship Pastors, Artists and Christian creatives to scale their influence with integrity. A native of St. Louis, MO, Michael now resides in Fort Worth, TX along with his wife, Chavon, and two sons.