Lausanne Movement Podcast

Africa’s Role in the Global Church: Insights on Theology and Mission with Bishop Professor Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu

How is the African Church transforming the global mission landscape, and what can the world learn from its theology?
In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Bishop Professor Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu delves into the influence of African Christianity on the global Church. From its vibrant growth to its unique theological contributions, he shares invaluable perspectives on how Africa shapes the mission and future of global Christianity.
Main Points:
Africa’s Vibrant Christian Growth: Explore the factors behind the rapid expansion of Christianity across Africa.
Unique Theological Contributions: Understand how African theology offers new perspectives on Scripture and mission.
Global Influence of African Christianity: Learn how Africa’s Church is shaping the future of global mission efforts.
Navigating Challenges: Unpack challenges facing the African church, from urbanization to socio-political issues.
Hope for the Global Church: Be inspired by Africa’s role as a prophetic voice and a source of renewal for the global Church.
If this episode inspired you, subscribe to the Lausanne Movement podcast for more conversations like this. Don’t forget to leave a review and visit lausanne.org to explore more resources and join the global mission movement.
Guest Bio:
Bishop Prof. Kwabena Asamoah-Gyadu has devoted his life to serving Christ and the people of Ghana. He currently serves as the Presiding Bishop of the Ghanaian Methodist Church, following a distinguished academic career as a professor at Trinity Theological Seminary in Ghana. A valued contributor to the Lausanne Movement, Bishop Kwabena brings practical insights and lived experience to his work with the Lausanne Theological Working Group. His academic achievements are equally noteworthy, including his recognition as a fellow of the Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences.
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Rethinking Youth Ministry: Authentic Relationships, Bold Discipleship, and Empowering Young Leaders with Jake Bland

Is it time to rethink how we do youth ministry?
In this insightful episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Youth for Christ USA's Jake Bland joins us to discuss how youth ministry must adapt to meet young people where they are in today's complex world. Jake explores the unique opportunities and challenges of ministering to Gen Z and Gen Alpha, emphasizing the importance of authentic, Christ-centered relationships to inspire faith.
Main Points:
Connecting in a Content-Fatigued World: Discover how the next generation is overloaded with digital content but yearns for real, relational connections.
The Power of Bold, Authentic Discipleship: Jake shares how meaningful mentorship and asking courageous questions can transform lives.
Challenges and Opportunities with Gen Z and Gen Alpha: Understand youth's mental health struggles and how faith provides peace and purpose.
Revitalizing Youth Ministry Models: Explore the shift from attractional to missional ministry, emphasizing genuine relationships over entertaining programs.
Equipping Young Leaders for Lasting Impact: Learn how to encourage and empower young believers to lead and actively participate in the church.
If this episode resonates with you, consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with anyone passionate about youth ministry. Visit our website to learn more about empowering the next generation for Christ.
Links & Resources:
Youth for Christ USA – Link to Youth for Christ website - https://yfc.net/ (for those interested in learning more about their mission and resources).
3 Story Church Curriculum - https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/1b943bf20d74415ca09d0e6d0aa2ad5a 
Axis - https://axis.org/
Tenx10 Network - https://www.tenx10.org/
Public Reading of Scripture App - https://www.prsi.org/en 
Future of Faith - https://www.futureoffaith.org/ 
The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt is a book that explores the rise in anxiety among youth and points to faith as a source of peace.
Editing Jesus by Rick Lawrence – This book addresses the importance of presenting the full and authentic message of Jesus without softening or hardening certain parts.
Fuller Youth Institute – Link to Fuller Youth Institute - https://fulleryouthinstitute.org/  (a resource for youth ministry research, especially on mentoring and empowering youth).
Springtide Research Institute – Link to Springtide Research Institute - https://www.springtideresearch.org/  (a research organization focusing on the beliefs and needs of Gen Z and youth in America).
3Story Doorways Download
More about 3Story:
3Story® is a way of life that guides followers of Jesus to be good news as they share The Good News. It is the framework Youth For Christ USA uses to describe how we live in relationship with God and others. The three overlapping circles represent each of our stories—God’s Story, our own stories and the stories of young people. Then, the three connection points of the circles represent growing relationships between God and us, us and others, and others and God.
We want to be people who are consistently drawing near to God for the sake of others, who love them like Jesus loves us, and who serve as Jesus serves. We know how powerful learning about and living a 3Story® lifestyle can be.
The 3Story® for Churches Curriculum
While the curriculum was originally developed for YFC Chapter staff and affiliates familiar with the 3Story® framework to host 3Story training events for their ministry partners, we believe it stands on its own and we are excited to offer it to a wider audience. Learn more and download the curriculum at https://yf.cx/3StoryForChurches.
 
Guest Bio:
Jacob “Jake” Bland is the President and CEO of Youth For Christ (YFC), where he leads the 77-year-old organization’s mission to bring the hope of Jesus to youth across the U.S. and around the world. Jake’s journey with YFC spans over two decades, beginning as a high school volunteer and growing through a variety of leadership roles, including Chief of Staff, VP of Development and Marketing, and CEO of the YFC Foundation. With a heart for Christ and a deep commitment to raising faithful leaders, Jake envisions YFC as a guiding light for 11-19-year-olds in crisis, providing them with a message of hope, connection, and the love of God. He holds a master’s in Youth Ministry Leadership from Huntington University and lives in Denver, Colorado, with his wife, Ali, and their two children.
We’d love your feedback to help us to improve this podcast. Thank you!

Revival & Renewal: Seeking Awakening Among Europe’s Younger Generations with Sarah Breuel

What does it look like to seek revival amongst the younger generations? Discover Sarah Breuel’s journey of surrender, renewal, and hope for a European awakening.
In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, we hear from Sarah Breuel, founder of Revive Europe, as she shares powerful stories of faith, transformation, and vision for revival among the next generation.
Main Points:
Personal Renewal as the Foundation for Revival: Sarah discusses the journey of personal renewal and healing, emphasizing forgiveness and letting go of idols to make space for God’s presence.
Defining Revival and Renewal in Today’s Context: Sarah breaks down what revival truly means, differentiating it from renewal, awakening, and other spiritual movements, and highlights why Europe is primed for a fresh outpouring.
The Power of Travailing Prayer for Revival: Discover how "travailing prayer" catalyzes revival. Sarah shares insights on how deep, persistent prayer can prepare hearts and communities for God’s movement.
A Vision for Europe’s Next Generation: Sarah explains the purpose and mission of Revive Europe, which seeks to unite young leaders in a movement of prayer and evangelism with a vision for continent-wide spiritual awakening.
Practical Steps for Revival Leadership: Drawing from her experiences, Sarah offers guidance for those longing to lead in revival, encouraging young leaders to seek God’s presence above all and to foster environments where the Holy Spirit can move freely.
Inspired by this episode? Be part of the movement! Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast for more stories like Sarah’s, leave a review, and share this episode to help spread the message of revival. Visit our website to learn more about Revive Europe and other resources to deepen your walk with God.
Links & Resources:
Revive Europe Website - https://www.reviveeurope.org/
Recommended Resource: - https://awakeninglibrary.com/
Follow Revive Europe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reviveeurope/?hl=en
Guest Bio:
Sarah Breuel is the director of Revive Europe. Included in Christianity Today’s ’33 under 33′ list of leaders to watch, Sarah served as chair of the 2016 Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering. Originally from Brazil and currently living in Rome, Sarah has worked for IFES in four national movements in the last 16 years (Brazil, Canada, Norway, and Italy) and now works in the European region as the evangelism training coordinator. She has a business degree and a MDiv from Regent College, and serves on the Lausanne Movement’s international board of directors. Sarah is married to René. They have planted a vibrant church in Rome and have two boys, Pietro and Matteo.

Faithful Leadership, Purposeful Discipleship, and Addressing Gen Z’s Greatest Need: A Townhall Meeting with Phil Ryken

What does it take to shape the next generation of Christlike leaders, and how can we inspire a deeper love for the Church amidst a fragmented world?
In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Jason and Phil Ryken dive into a rich conversation about leadership, faith, and the legacy of serving the next generation. From personal stories of faith in the Ryken family to navigating the challenges of modern-day discipleship, Phil shares insights on how the Church can stay relevant while remaining rooted in biblical truths. Whether passionate about student ministry, leadership, or global missions, this episode offers profound reflections and actionable wisdom for today’s church.
Main Points:
Reaching & Developing Gen Z's: Highlighting the hunger for genuine relationships and peace, Phil addresses Gen Z’s spiritual needs through meaningful gospel engagement. Why the next generation’s greatest need is Jesus, and how we can authentically reach them.
Beauty, Brokenness & The Gospel: A discussion of how beauty is intertwined with the gospel and why God’s redemptive work makes the church beautiful, even amid brokenness.
Christlike Leadership: Lessons from the Apostle Paul’s servanthood inform Phil's approach to leadership with authenticity, humility, and collaboration.
After listening, we invite you to reflect on how you can inspire and mentor the next generation in your community. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with others passionate about equipping future leaders for the Kingdom!
Links & Resources:
God on the Move Podcast – Phil’s recommended episode featuring Jerry White.Demonstrating Godly Character in the U.S. Air Force: https://lausanne.org/podcast/demonstrating-godly-character-in-the-u-s-air-force
The Cape Town Commitment - https://lausanne.org/statement/ctcommitment
Wheaton College Website – https://www.wheaton.edu/
Book: Beauty Is Your Destiny: How the Promise of Splendor Changes Everything by Phil Ryken - https://www.amazon.com/Beauty-Your-Destiny-Splendor-Everything/dp/1433587726
Guest Bio:
Dr. Philip Graham Ryken is the eighth president of Wheaton College, where he studied English literature and philosophy. Dr. Ryken earned a Master of Divinity degree from Westminster Theological Seminary and a doctorate in historical theology from the University of Oxford. He preached at Philadelphia’s historic Tenth Presbyterian Church from 1995 until his appointment at Wheaton in 2010. President Ryken has published more than 50 Bible commentaries and other books and serves as a board member for The Gospel Coalition and the National Association of Evangelicals. He has traveled to more than 30 countries on 6 continents to teach and preach the gospel.
We’d love your feedback to help us to improve this podcast. Thank you!

Discipling Digital Natives: Lucas Pegoraro on Gen Z, Social Media, and the Gospel

How can we inspire and disciple Generation Z in a world saturated by social media and secular narratives?
In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Lucas Pegoraro, a pastor and ministry leader from São Paulo, Brazil, shares how his passion for graphic design and theology led to co-founding a social media ministry reaching tens of thousands of GenZ’s with the gospel. He discusses the cultural challenges Gen Z faces, the role of social media in shaping their worldview, and how the church can engage them effectively.
Main Points:
Digital Ministry in Action: Lucas explains how his platform, Efeito Prisma, brings biblical truth to a secularized youth culture, focusing on integrating faith into everyday life.
Answering Gen Z’s Big Questions: From identity to purpose, Gen Z is searching for meaning. Lucas shares how the gospel provides the answers they seek.
The Role of Social Media in Discipleship: Discover how Lucas and his team use Instagram to disciple young Christians, helping them live out their faith in a digital Babylon.
Cultural Engagement: Lucas highlights the importance of addressing contemporary culture through a biblical lens and speaks on how Christian leaders can meet youth where they are.
Excellence in Ministry: Lucas emphasizes the need for beauty and excellence in Christian content creation, drawing inspiration from leaders like Tim Keller and Francis Schaeffer.
If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media for more inspiring content. You can also visit our website for additional resources on global mission and discipleship.
Links & Resources:
Efeito Prisma on Instagram: @efeito_prisma
Lucas Pegorraro on Instagram: @lucas.pegoraro
Recommended Books:
Steal Like an Artist by Austin Kleon - https://www.amazon.com/Steal-Like-Artist-Things-Creative/dp/0761169253
Show your Work by Austin Kleon - https://www.amazon.co.za/Show-Your-Work-Creativity-Discovered/dp/076117897X
You Are What You Love by James K.A. Smith - https://www.amazon.co.za/You-Are-What-Love-Spiritual/dp/158743380X
Tim Keller's insights on culture and faith: Redeemer City to City
Guest Bio:
Lucas Pegoraro, 29, was born in São Paulo, Brazil, and holds degrees in Graphic Design and Theology. He works in digital ministry, helping to create Christian resources to support people in their faith across various platforms. In Brazil, he serves as the coordinator for BibleProject Portuguese. He is also the co-founder of Efeito Prisma, a Christian organization dedicated to fostering dialogue between faith and culture, equipping believers to live out their faith in everyday life. Additionally, he serves as the Youth and Young Adults Pastor at his local church, Vertical Vineyard.

Discipling Future Leaders for Global Mission: Nana Yaw Offei Awuku on Building Generational Impact & YLG 2026

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, we are joined by Nana Yaw Offei Awuku, Global Associate Director for Generations at the Lausanne Movement. Nana shares his passion for fostering generational unity in global missions and unveils key insights into the upcoming Younger Leaders Gathering in 2026. He discusses the biblical foundation for generational collaboration and his own journey from engineering to full-time ministry, providing valuable lessons for leaders of all ages.
Main Points:
Generational Intentionality in Missions: Nana-Yaw emphasizes how engaging multiple generations can sustain and accelerate global mission efforts.
The Younger Leaders Gathering 2026: A preview of the next global gathering designed to equip and mentor young leaders for the next decade.
Biblical Foundations of Generational Collaboration: Nana-Yaw highlights the scriptural precedent for cross-generational teamwork in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Personal Journey of Faith: Nana shares his personal story of faith, leadership, and God’s grace, from his heritage to his calling in the Lausanne Movement.
Investing in Emerging Leaders: Insights on how senior leaders can support the next generation and the long-term impact this has on global missions.
Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement podcast to stay updated on future episodes, leave a review to help others find this content, and visit our website to learn more about the Younger Leaders Gathering 2026.
Links & Resources:
Lausanne Movement website - https://lausanne.org/
Younger Leaders Gathering 2026 Information - https://lausanne.org/gathering/ylg2026
Lausanne Generartions - https://lausanne.org/generations
Guest Bio
Nana Yaw Offei Awuku serves as the global associate director for generations. In this role he leads the Lausanne Younger Leaders Generation initiative (YLGen). He was previously the Lausanne regional director for English, Portuguese, and Spanish-speaking Africa (EPSA) for over five years until September 2016.
Nana was on staff with Scripture Union Ghana for over 20 years till 2017 and served on the senior management team as the director for field ministries. His primary ministry foci are evangelism, discipleship, and leadership development.
Nana is trained professionally as a chemical engineer and organization development consultant. He graduated from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary (Massachusetts, US) with an MA in evangelism and world mission, and is currently a PhD candidate with Biola University. Nana is married to Beth, and they have three children: Christy-Joy, Eben-Joy, and Laura-Joy.
We’d love your feedback to help us to improve this podcast. Thank you!

Least Reached Peoples: How the Gospel Restores Dignity and Transforms Communities with Dr. Mary Ho & Lisa

In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Dr. Mary Ho and Lisa, co-catalysts of Lausanne’s Issue Network for the Least Reached Peoples, share their personal stories of transformation and how God is at work among the least reached. Together, they discuss the importance of dignity and community and how every believer can participate in global missions.
Main Points:
Transformation through Grace: Personal testimonies of healing and freedom that illustrate the transformative power of God’s love.
Dignity in Mission: The gospel not only saves but also restores dignity, especially among women and marginalized communities.
Understanding the Least Reached: A deep dive into what it means to engage with the least reached peoples and how to respect their dignity.
Jesus Already at Work: Encouraging stories of how Jesus is revealing Himself through dreams and visions among those who have never heard His name.
Practical Steps to Get Involved: How listeners can join the mission to reach the least reached, and why mission work is a communal journey, not an individual task.
Join us in accelerating global missions! Subscribe to the Lausanne Movement podcast, share this episode with friends, and visit our website to learn how you can be part of reaching the least reached people groups.
Links & Resources:
The Lausanne Movement: https://www.lausanne.org
Least Reached Issue Network: https://lausanne.org/network/least-reached-peoples
Guest Bio:
Dr. Mary Ho - https://lausanne.org/leader/mary-ho
Lisa - https://lausanne.org/leader/z-l

Michael Oh at the Fourth Lausanne Congress: Reflections on the Journey, Congress Highlights, and What’s Next for the Movement

In this special episode recorded live at the Fourth Lausanne Congress, Michael Oh, Global Executive Director/CEO of the Lausanne Movement, offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the years of preparation, shares powerful insights from the Congress itself, and casts a compelling vision for what’s next for the global movement.
Main Points:
The Journey to the Congress: Michael shares key milestones leading up to the Fourth Lausanne Congress, from its early planning stages to navigating challenges like COVID-19.
Personal Growth as a Leader: Michael reflects on how this journey shaped him personally, including lessons in leadership and family discipleship.
Congress Highlights: Walking through the Congress halls with 5,000 global influencers, Michael describes the energy, excitement, and life-changing moments unfolding in Seoul.
A Call for Collaboration: Michael emphasizes the need for unity and collaboration in global mission, urging participants to continue working together long after the Congress ends.
Looking to the Future: What’s next for the Lausanne Movement? Michael outlines practical steps for participants to take as they return home, ensuring the Congress’s impact ripples through the global church.
Don’t let the journey stop here! After listening, subscribe to the Lausanne Movement Podcast, share this episode with a friend, and explore the tools and resources available to continue the mission. Visit our website to access the Accelerate platform and stay connected with global influencers and ideas for mission.
Links & Resources:
Lausanne Movement Website - https://lausanne.org/
Lausanne Collaborative Action Hub - https://collaborate.lausanne.org/
The Accelerate Platform - https://lausanne.org/accelerate
The Seoul Statement - https://lausanne.org/statement/the-seoul-statement
The State of the Great Commission Report - https://lausanne.org/report
Guest Bio:
Dr Michael Young-Suk Oh is the global executive director / CEO of the Lausanne Movement.
Michael is of Korean descent, born in America. Michael received his BA, MS, and PhD degrees at the University of Pennsylvania. He also completed an MDiv at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School as well as an MA in regional studies, East Asia, at Harvard University.
Michael, his wife Pearl, and their five children served as missionaries in Nagoya, Japan from 2004 to 2016. In January 2004, he founded a ministry called Christ Bible Institute (CBI), which includes Christ Bible Seminary, the Heart & Soul Cafe, and a church-planting ministry. He currently serves as chairman of the board of directors for CBI and chancellor of Christ Bible Seminary.
Michael’s first involvement with the Lausanne Movement was at the 2004 Forum for World Evangelization. Then in 2006 Michael served on the younger leaders planning team for the 2006 Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering, where he also gave the keynote address. In 2007 he joined the Lausanne Board of Directors as its youngest member. He has served as global executive director / CEO since March 2013.

The Power of Collaboration: Insights from Global Leaders

The Power of Collaboration: Insights from Global Leaders
In this special episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, we explore collaborative action in global mission. Through highlights from previous interviews with key leaders, we uncover the transformative impact of working together for the Great Commission.
Featured Voices:
Jurie Kriel emphasizes the church’s unmatched potential when united in mission, sharing his vision for synergy to complete the Great Commission.
Jiyoung Yoo reflects on the challenges and rewards of collaboration, showing how God orchestrates beautiful outcomes when we work together.
Mac Pier discusses effective strategies for collaboration, avoiding duplication, and fostering trust through shared vision and prayer.
Gina Zurlo speaks on the Global South's growing role in Christianity and the importance of unity amid regional tensions.
Ron Anderson urges leaders to move beyond understanding collaboration to putting it into consistent practice.
Eiko Takamizawa identifies critical gaps and opportunities for collaborative breakthroughs in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Dave Raley draws lessons from history, highlighting the power of collaborative innovation in movements like the Reformation.
Ted Esler and Ed Stetzer discuss the importance of cooperation to tackle complex global mission challenges.
Tom Lin, Guna Raman, and Ramez Atallah share practical insights on building trust, partnerships, and the importance of unity in mission.
Leighton Ford reflects on Billy Graham’s vision for leaders to unite in prayer and action, sparking the Lausanne Movement.
Key Takeaways:
Collaboration Accelerates Mission: Unified efforts reduce duplication and increase global impact.
Trust and Relationships: Effective collaboration is built on trust and shared vision.
Global Perspective: The future of global mission depends on greater collaboration, especially across the Global South and North.

Let the Church Declare and Display Christ Together: Dr. Patrick Fung on the Theme of the Fourth Lausanne Congress

Could you imagine what would happen if the global church were to declare and display Christ together in unity? Join Dr. Patrick Fung as he unpacks the heart behind this powerful theme for the upcoming Fourth Lausanne Congress.
In this episode of the Lausanne Movement Podcast, Dr. Patrick Fung, Program Chair for the Fourth Lausanne Congress, shares insights into the Congress's theme, "Let the Church Declare and Display Christ Together." He reflects on his personal journey in missions, the theme of the congress, and calls us back to humility, integrity, and simplicity in proclaiming the gospel. Explore the essential balance between declaring Christ through words and displaying Christ through action as we prepare for this pivotal global event.
Main Points:
Congress Invitation: The theme "Let the Church" is an invitation by God for His global church to unite and proclaim Christ together in word and action.
The Church: Dr. Fung emphasizes the importance of mutuality and unity between the Global South and North, fostering interdependence rather than independence.
Declare and Display: Proclaiming the gospel isn’t just through words but also through lives that reflect Christ, combining verbal proclamation with acts of love and service.
Together: The Congress aims to bridge gaps across denominations, cultures, and generations, fostering collaborative action in mission.
Humility, Integrity, Simplicity: Inspired by the Cape Town Commitment, Dr. Fung calls the church back to these three values crucial for the Lausanne Movement and the global church.
Call to Action:
After listening to this episode, subscribe to our podcast, share it with friends attending the Congress, and visit our website to learn more about how you can participate in the Virtual Experience of Congress and join us in declaring and displaying Christ together.
Links & Resources:
Congress Website: https://congress.lausanne.org/
Patrick Fung Article on the Congress Theme: https://lausanne.org/about/blog/let-the-church-declare-and-display-christ-together
The Lausanne Covenant: https://lausanne.org/statement/lausanne-covenant
Cape Town Commitment: https://lausanne.org/statement/ctcommitment
 
Guest Bio:
Patrick was born in Hong Kong and received medical training in Australia and the UK. He, and his wife, Jennie, previously served as medical missionaries in South Asia. Patrick currently serves as the global ambassador of OMF International (formerly the China Inland Mission). He formerly served as the general director of OMF International from 2005–2023, sharing the good news of Jesus Christ in all its fullness with East Asia’s peoples. Patrick was formerly on the Lausanne Movement’s international board and is currently the advisory team chair of Lausanne YLGen and the programme chair for the Fourth Lausanne Congress on World Evangelization.
We’d love your feedback to help us to improve this podcast. Thank you!