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Outside the Sanctuary

Outside the Sanctuary

By: William Merkh
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About this listen

Outside the Sanctuary is Immanuel Baptist Church's weekly invitation to step beyond Sunday morning and into conversations that feel real, warm, and wonderfully unscripted. The show blends humor, honest reflection, and thought‑provoking topics, all wrapped in a relaxed atmosphere that makes listeners feel like they've pulled up a chair among friends. Each episode leans into what matters most: genuine relationships with people, with community, and with Jesus. Guests join often, adding fresh stories and perspectives, and the topics range from everyday life to deeper questions of faith, always with a lightness that keeps things engaging.

After the heart of the show comes the heartbeat of the hosts. Bill Merkh brings easygoing charm and the occasional detour into The Beatles or Pearl Jam. Katrina McDonald offers a grounded, compassionate, motherly perspective that deepens every discussion. Pastor Vince McDonald might take listeners on a nostalgic trip through Maple Shade, NJ, weaving hometown memories into spiritual insights.

Dr. Marc McCleary adds a thoughtful blend of medical insight and the lived experience of a veteran, giving conversations a depth that's both practical and personal. Steve Entwistle shows up as the everyman, relatable, humble, and armed with a surprisingly deep knowledge of Scripture that sneaks up on you in the best way. Lisa Merkh brings a heart for women's ministries, offering wisdom and encouragement shaped by her passion for helping women grow in faith and community. And Pastor Greg Ginion rounds out the team with the perspective of a pastor who isn't afraid to talk honestly about ministry, calling, and the real-life challenges of shepherding people.

Together, they make Outside the Sanctuary a place where faith feels approachable, conversations feel alive, and listeners feel genuinely connected.

Copyright 2026 by William Merkh
Christianity Spirituality
Episodes
  • When Weather Affects You
    Feb 3 2026

    In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh dive into the wild, unpredictable world of weather and the ways it has shaped their lives and ministries. From the chaos and community impact of Superstorm Sandy to the unforgettable Blizzard of 1996, each host shares personal stories of storms that left a mark. Vince reflects on his early days as a paperboy braving the elements, while the group opens up about the tough calls involved in canceling church services when safety and faith intersect. Their conversation then turns to Scripture as they explore memorable weather events in the Bible, leading Bill to pose a playful but thought‑provoking question: What is their Mount Rushmore of biblical weather moments? It's a warm, thoughtful, and insightful discussion about storms, stories, and the ways weather shapes both our daily lives and our spiritual journeys. Stay tuned, listen in, and be sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Outside the Sanctuary.

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    56 mins
  • What Motivates You?
    Jan 27 2026

    Well, we did it! It's our one year anniversary!

    In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, Steve Entwistle, Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh come together for a lively and heartfelt exploration of motivation. Each host brings a distinct voice to the table, creating a conversation that feels both grounded and energizing.

    Steve offers his trademark curiosity and thoughtful questioning, drawing out deeper layers of the topic and inviting the group to reflect on what truly keeps people moving. Pastor Vince brings a pastoral lens, connecting motivation to faith, purpose, and the spiritual rhythms that sustain us when life becomes demanding. Katrina adds a warm, practical perspective shaped by real-life experience, speaking to the everyday challenges of staying motivated while juggling responsibilities, relationships, and personal growth. Bill brings a playful spark to the discussion, mixing humor with sharp, thought‑provoking questions that keep everyone on their toes and open up unexpected angles on what drives us.

    Together, they create a conversation that blends personal stories, spiritual insight, laughter, and honest reflection. Whether you're chasing a new goal, trying to regain your spark, or simply looking for a fresh dose of encouragement, this episode offers a rich mix of wisdom and inspiration that meets you right where you are.

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Following God Into the Unknown, and His Next Steps
    Jan 20 2026

    In this inspiring episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Bill Merkh and Pastor Greg Ginion welcome a very special guest, Greg's daughter Leah Ginion. Leah opens up about her remarkable journey, guiding listeners from her early years in New Jersey, through her transformative season in Tennessee, and ultimately to her life‑changing experiences in Oregon.

    Along the way, Leah shares how she once believed God was leading her down a particular path, only to discover that when she surrendered her plans and placed everything in His hands, He opened unexpected and extraordinary doors. Her story becomes a powerful reminder of what can happen when faith outweighs fear and trust replaces certainty.

    With honesty, warmth, and a deep sense of purpose, Leah reflects on the moments that shaped her faith, strengthened her resilience, and ignited her passion for seeing people come to know Christ. Her journey is one of movement, both across states and within the heart, as she follows God's leading beyond her own expectations.

    This episode offers an inspiring look at a young woman's walk with God, her desire to reach others, and the beautiful ways God works outside the walls of the sanctuary.

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    57 mins
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