In this episode of Rural Pastors Talk, TJ Freeman, Joe Wagner, and Josh MacClaren discuss how a church can become a “reverse witness” in its community when it’s known for something other than Christ.

They argue that in small towns, reputation spreads fast and lasts for generations, so building genuine relationships with community leaders and neighbors matters for both practical needs (like zoning and securing a building) and gospel opportunities. Josh shares encouragement from his Chamber of Commerce president amid ongoing zoning hurdles, and the guys unpack dangers like manipulation, “us vs. them” thinking, and confusing pragmatics with mission. They recommend Stephen Viars’ Loving Your Community and close with a Bonhoeffer quote on the church existing for others.

In this episode of Rural Pastors Talk, TJ Freeman, Josh MacClaren, and Joe Wagner swap memorable “worst hotel” stories to highlight how first impressions linger and why hospitality matters when guests visit a church.

They discuss common rural-church hospitality pitfalls, like locked or unused front doors, unclear entrances, and assuming everyone already knows where to go. They also offer practical steps such as opening the main doors, using simple signage (especially for bathrooms and classrooms), keeping entryways clean, and providing coffee and refreshments.

The guys talk through greeting strategies from the parking lot to the door, caution against “greeting fatigue” and calling visitors out from the pulpit, and encourage equipping members (including teens) for welcoming roles.

In this episode of Rural Pastors Talk, TJ Freeman interviews Bryce Asberg, director of a pregnancy resource center in Hillsdale, Michigan, about why the pro-life issue matters deeply for rural churches.

Bryce shares his background, his “boring” Christian testimony, and how his long-standing pro-life convictions led him into pregnancy center work. Together they discuss how abortion is now present in every community through telemedicine and mailed abortion pills, making discipleship and clear, compassionate biblical teaching more urgent than ever.

Bryce argues abortion is ultimately about God’s glory and authority as Creator, and he encourages pastors to strengthen local discipleship while partnering with pregnancy centers through prayer, people, and financial support. They also explore how centers can serve as “emergency room” ministries and wisely connect clients to the local church.

Contact Bryce to learn more at bryce@helpinghandsprc.org.