In this episode of Water Into Wine, Father Charleston Wilson reflects on why control is one of the greatest sources of stress in our lives and how faith invites us into something freer and more peaceful. Over a glass of Pinot Grigio from Friuli, Italy, the conversation moves from the careful balance required in winemaking to the deeper spiritual work of surrendering our need to manage outcomes. Drawing from pastoral care, Scripture, and personal experience, Father Charleston offers insight into why letting go is so difficult and why trust in God’s timing can bring real relief. This episode is thoughtful, practical, and encouraging for anyone feeling overwhelmed by responsibility or pressure.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to Water Into Wine

(01:20) Wine of the Day: 2024 Pierpaolo Pecorari Pinot Grigio, Friuli, Italy

(06:00) Does the topic of “Control” come up a lot?

(07:00) Tasting the wine

(09:35) Problems boiling down to control

(12:15) How can Type A’s deal with control?

(15:30) Why do people “play” God?

(19:40) If we surrender control, what do we replace it with?

(23:50) Listener Question: How can we balance surrendering control to God and personal accountability?

(28:15) Final tasting notes

(29:00) Bonus Question: When did you realize God was in control?

In this soul-stirring episode of Water Into Wine, Father Charleston Wilson explores the everyday beauty and mystery of prayer over a red blend from the south of France. With warmth, humor, and a touch of Bon Jovi, he breaks down the fears many have about “doing prayer right” and reminds us that we're probably praying more than we think. From midnight worries to spontaneous soul speak, Father Charleston redefines what a meaningful prayer life looks like.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Welcome to Water into Wine

(01:00) Wine of the day: 2021 Domaine D’aupilhac “Lou Maset,” Languedoc, France

(06:00) Why this wine?

(07:00) How do we know we are praying correctly?

(11:20) Prayer routines

(13:00) Sometimes prayer can feel like a laundry list

(14:30) Listener Question: How do we know God hears us?

(19:25) Bonus Question: Does God always answer our prayers?

In the inaugural episode of Water into Wine, host Grier Ferguson sits down with Father Charleston Wilson, rector of Church of the Redeemer in Sarasota, Florida. Their wide-ranging conversation touches on the topics of grace, struggle and transformation. Over a dry German Riesling, they talk candidly about imposter syndrome, quiet suffering and why many people carry more pain than they let on. With his trademark touches of humor and popular culture references, Father Charleston talks about what called him to the priesthood and offers a grounded, practical understanding of grace.

Timestamps:

(00:00) Introducing Water Into Wine with Father Charleston Wilson & Grier Ferguson

(01:15) Opening a bottle of Von Winning 'Winnings' Riesling

(04:50) Pairings with food

(06:35) The Spirituality of Wine & Definition of Grace

(13:25) More about Father Charleston Wilson

(19:30) Why start a podcast?

(21:28) Listener Question: Do you wish you continued your career in restaurants and wine?

(26:10) Bonus Question: Do you have a favorite pair of socks?