The Church Initiative Story - Samuel Hodges | Faithly Stories

Today on the Faithly Stories podcast, host Alicia Lee welcomes Sam Hodges, President of Church Initiative - the international ministry behind GriefShare, DivorceCare, and other Christ-centered programs that bring hope to people facing life’s most difficult seasons.

Throughout their conversation, Sam shares how Church Initiative began with a personal story of healing and a small group in a living room, and how it’s grown into a global movement that equips churches to walk alongside people experiencing grief, divorce, and other life crises. With a background in both theology and media, Sam’s path uniquely prepared him to help lead the development of video-based resources that are now used in thousands of churches worldwide. From expanding into new languages to adapting during the pandemic, Sam reflects on how the ministry continues to evolve while staying rooted in a simple mission: comforting others with the comfort we’ve received.

Website: https://www.griefshare.org/

(00:01) Supporting Churches Through Grief and Divorce
(15:50) Global Impact of Church Initiative
(31:33) Starting and Sustaining Church Ministries
(37:28) Empowering Church Leaders Through Faithly

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The Faithly Podcast invites you into conversations with faith-driven leaders about life, leadership, and the changing landscape of ministry.

Each episode offers a look at the challenges and lessons learned in spiritual leadership—from personal growth and family rhythms to innovative practices and new resources shaping the Church today. Whether you're a pastor, volunteer, or simply someone called to serve, you'll find stories, insights, and practical takeaways to help you lead with clarity and conviction.

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