Rekindled Faith

Meeting Jesus in the Wilderness: Claire Thornton's Story of Addiction, Surrender and Redemption

Can God redeem even our darkest seasons?
In this episode of Rekindled Faith, Claire Thornton shares her powerful testimony of addiction, recovery, and discovering the life-changing grace of Jesus Christ. From growing up in a Christian home to battling substance abuse, Claire opens up about how God met her in her brokenness and transformed her life through surrender. Whether you're struggling with addiction, walking alongside someone who is, or wondering if healing is possible, this conversation offers hope, encouragement, and a reminder that no one is beyond God's redemption.
In this episode, we discuss:
Claire's journey into addiction and recovery
Meeting Jesus in the midst of brokenness
The power of surrender and God's grace
Finding hope through grief and loss
How to support a loved one battling addiction
Why no one is beyond the reach of God's love
If this conversation encouraged you, subscribe to Rekindled Faith, like this video, and share it with someone who needs hope today.
 
Connect with Rekindled Faith:
YouTube: @RekindledFaith
Instagram: @RekindledFaith 
Connect with Melanie:
Website: www.melaniebeerda.ca
Instagram: @Melanie.Beerda
Facebook: @Melanie.Beerda 
 

Searching for Truth: Wes Huff on the History and Authenticity of the Bible

The Bible: History & Authenticity
In this episode, Melanie welcomes Wes Huff, the Vice President of Apologetics Canada who shares his journey of faith, studies, and apologetics. Wes provides insightful answers to common questions about the reliability of the Bible and how Christians can navigate a skeptical world with love and truth. Whether you’re doubting, curious, or wanting to deepen your understanding of scripture, this conversation offers encouragement and practical guidance rooted in biblical conviction.
*This interview is from 2024 on Rekindled Faith -- previously only available in audio but it is now with video on YouTube!!
Main Topics:
- Wes’s personal journey from sociology and detective aspirations to biblical apologetics
- The historical reliability of the Bible and translation accuracy
- Handling objections around the morality of Old Testament events
- The importance of biblical translations and how verses were added historically
- Navigating hostility and persecution with humility and love
- How faith, even in imperfect humans, reflects Christ’s example of servant leadership
 
Connect with Apologetics Canada
Apologetics Canada Website
Instagram: @ApologeticsCanada
YouTube: @ApologeticsCanada
 
Connect with Wesley Huff
Website: wesleyhuff.com
Instagram: @Wesley_Huff
Youtube: Wes Huff
Can I trust the Bible Series 
 
Connect with Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @RekindledFaith
YouTube: @RekindledFaith
 
Connect with Melanie
Website melaniebeerda.ca  
Instagram: @MelanieBeerda
 

Embracing Disability in the Church with Greg Harris

Embracing Disability in the Church | Presuming Competence, Belonging & the Body of Christ with Pastor Greg Harris 
 
How can the Church become a place where people with disabilities are not just welcomed, but fully included, valued, and equipped to participate in the life of the body of Christ? 
 
In this episode of Rekindled Faith, Melanie Beerda sits down with Pastor Greg Harris to discuss disability, discipleship, and what biblical inclusion looks like in the local church. Drawing from his experience as a father, pastor, and doctoral researcher, Greg shares how his understanding of disability has been shaped through raising a son with disabilities and studying the intersection of disability and discipleship. 
 
Together, they explore the assumptions many of us make about cognitive ability, why we should presume competence when interacting with people with disabilities, and how churches can create spaces where every person is treated with dignity as an image-bearer of God. This conversation challenges listeners to rethink what it means to be the body of Christ and offers practical encouragement for building communities that reflect the heart of Jesus. 
 
In This Episode:
Greg's journey as a father of a child with disabilities 
Presuming competence and respecting a person's internal life 
How to engage meaningfully with people with disabilities 
Why age-appropriate communication matters 
Common misconceptions surrounding disability 
What Scripture teaches about serving vulnerable people 
The significance of 1 Corinthians 12 and the body of Christ 
Creating churches where everyone can participate and belong 
Embracing interruptions and diversity within worship gatherings 
The work of the Lazarus Center and disability theology in Canada 
 
About Greg Harris: 
Greg joined the team at SouthRidge Fellowship Baptist Church in 2022 and became Lead Pastor in 2025. He has been married to Sarah since 2011, and together they have three children: Benjamin, Emily, and Oliver. Greg holds a Diploma in Biblical Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Worship Arts from Columbia Bible College, a Master of Divinity from Northwest Baptist College and Seminary, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Practical Theology at McMaster Divinity College. His research focuses on the intersection of disability and discipleship in the local church. 
 
Resource mentioned: The Lazarus Centre 
Website: https://www.thelazaruscentre.org
Instagram: @thelazaruscentre 
 
Connect with Greg: 
Instagram @gregharris7 
 
Connect with Rekindled Faith: 
Instagram: @rekindledfaith 
 
Connect with Melanie: 
Website: melaniebeerda.ca
Instagram @melanie.beerda 
 

Welcome to the Rekindled Faith Podcast

Welcome to Season 5 of Rekindled Faith: The Wilderness.
Have you ever felt distant from God, stuck in a season of waiting, or unsure of where He is leading you? Throughout Scripture, the wilderness is not a place of abandonment—it is a place of preparation, dependence, and transformation.
This season, we'll explore how God meets us in seasons of uncertainty, isolation, and spiritual dryness, teaching us to trust Him more deeply and become firmly rooted in His Word. Through biblical teaching, honest conversations, and practical encouragement, you'll discover how the wilderness can become the very place where your faith grows strongest.
Join us as we learn what it means to follow Christ faithfully and emerge from the wilderness with deeper roots, renewed hope, and a stronger foundation in Him.

Season 4 Finale: Looking Back, Looking Forward

Join Melanie and Andi for the Season 4 finale of Rekindled Faith as they reflect on the conversations, lessons, and guests that shaped this season. From spiritual growth and prayer to evangelism, community, and trusting God through uncertainty, they share how these discussions impacted their own faith and the lives of listeners.
In this special episode, Andi shares an exciting personal announcement, and together they celebrate God's faithfulness throughout their time hosting the podcast.
Melanie also offers a preview of Season 5: The Wilderness—a season focused on finding God's presence and purpose in seasons of waiting, isolation, and uncertainty.
In This Episode:• Highlights and lessons from Season 4• How the podcast has impacted Melanie and Andi's faith• Encouraging listener stories and feedback• Andi's exciting life update• A look ahead to Season 5: The Wilderness
Thank you for joining us this season. We pray these conversations have encouraged you to follow Christ more deeply and remain faithful in every season.
Resources: 
Book Melanie mentioned: "Bearing God's Name: Why Sinai Still Matters" by Carmen Imes
Connect with Rekindled Faith:
Instagram: @RekindledFaith
Connect with Andi:
Instagram: @AndreaWallins
Substack: @SacredlySourced
Connect with Melanie:
Instagram: @MelanieBeerda
Facebook: @MelanieBeerda
Website: MelanieBeerda.ca
Substack: @MelanieBeerda

Resilient Faith Through Generations with Zlata Zolotarova

In this episode of Rekindled Faith, Melanie sits down with Zlata Zolotarova to explore a powerful family legacy shaped by faith, sacrifice, and resilience in Ukraine. Zlata shares remarkable stories passed down through generations—stories of believers who remained faithful through hardship, persecution, and uncertainty. Their unwavering trust in God's provision and commitment to serving others became a lasting spiritual inheritance that continues to influence her life today.
Together, Melanie and Zlata discuss the importance of preserving a spiritual legacy, living out faith with courage, and trusting God even when circumstances seem impossible. This conversation serves as a reminder that our faithfulness today can impact generations to come.
Whether you're navigating a difficult season, seeking to deepen your faith, or wondering what kind of legacy you're leaving behind, this episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for living boldly for Christ.
In This Episode
The rich spiritual heritage of faith in Ukraine
Stories of perseverance through persecution and hardship
How family legacies shape future generations
Lessons on generosity and serving others
Trusting God's provision in uncertain circumstances
What it means to live out faith courageously
The lasting impact of everyday acts of obedience
Building a legacy that points others to Christ
Key Takeaways
Faithfulness often leaves a greater legacy than success.
God's provision is not limited by our circumstances.
The sacrifices of one generation can strengthen the faith of the next.
Serving others is a powerful expression of God's love.
Courageous faith inspires hope in times of uncertainty.
Connect With Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @RekindledFaith
Connect with Zlata
Instagram: @zlata_zolotarova
Website: Trinity Church - Kelowna 
If this episode encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend. Your support helps spread stories of hope, redemption, and renewed faith.
Follow Rekindled Faith for more conversations that inspire listeners to draw closer to Christ and live out their faith with confidence.
#RekindledFaith #ChristianPodcast #FaithInAction #SpiritualLegacy #Ukraine #GodsProvision #ChristianTestimony #FaithJourney #HopeInChrist #GenerationalFaith

Imprisoned for Jesus: The Reality of Christian Persecution

In this powerful episode of Rekindled Faith, host Andi Wallins sits down with Ghebrezghi Berhane, whose story will challenge and deepen your perspective on faith and freedom.
Growing up in Eritrea—one of the most restrictive countries in the world for Christians—Ghebrezghi shares his firsthand experience with persecution, imprisonment, and the constant threat faced by those who actively live out their faith. With family members still imprisoned for their beliefs, his story reveals the real cost of following Jesus in a place where faith must often be practiced in secret.
From a dangerous escape to Ethiopia to ultimately finding refuge in Canada, Ghebrezghi’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering trust in God. He highlights his encounter with Jesus that transformed his life—and why that transformation made him a target.
This conversation is a sobering reminder not to take religious freedom for granted, while also pointing to the hope, boldness, and deep conviction that can only come from a life rooted in Christ.
Takeaways:
Freedom of faith is not guaranteed and comes at a cost for many
Christians in Eritrea face intense persecution and surveillance
Living out your faith boldly can come with real consequences
God’s protection and presence remain even in dangerous circumstances
True transformation in Christ changes every part of your life
Religious freedom in countries like Canada is a gift not to be taken lightly
Faith can grow stronger through trials, not weaker
Sharing the gospel can require courage and sacrifice
The global Church is more connected than we often realize
Hope in Christ remains, even in the darkest situations
Additional Resources:
Subscribe to the Rekindled Faith Podcast  
Mentioned in this Episode:
Grace Literature and Media Ministry
Voice of the Martyrs
Connect with Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @rekindledfaith
YouTube: @rekindledfaith
Connect with Andi Wallins
Instagram: @andreawallins
Substack: @sacredlysourced
 
Rekindled Faith is all about helping you get back to the foundation of your faith in Jesus. Follow the podcast for more conversations that will strengthen and encourage your walk with God.

Singleness & Faith: Trusting God in the Waiting with Meisha Watson

Singleness & Faith: Trusting God in the Waiting
Guest: Meisha Watson
In this episode of Rekindled Faith, host Andi Wallins sits down with Meisha Watson to have an honest and encouraging conversation about singleness and faith.
Meisha shares her personal journey, opening up about the challenges and growth that come with navigating life as a single Christian in today’s world. Together, they explore the beauty and tension of singleness, the importance of intimacy with God, and how this season can be one of preparation, purpose, and deep transformation. Meisha highlights the need for stronger support and representation for singles within the church, while encouraging listeners to hold onto hope, joy, and trust in God’s perfect timing.
This episode is for anyone walking through a season of waiting and longing to embrace it with faith, confidence, and a deeper connection to Christ.
Takeaways:
Misha's journey reflects the complexities of faith and personal transformation.
Being single in a Christian context can feel isolating and complicated. 
The church often overlooks the blessing of singleness in its teachings.
Intimacy with God is crucial during the waiting period of singleness.
Community support is essential for singles navigating their faith journey.
Preparation for future relationships involves deepening one's relationship with God.
Dating apps can be used intentionally to foster healthy connections.
It's important to celebrate the joys of life while waiting for a partner.
Misha encourages singles to embrace their current season and seek God's blessings.
Hope and faith in God's timing are vital for those desiring marriage.
Stay Connected:
Subscribe to the Rekindled Faith Podcast 
Connect with Meisha Watson
Instagram: @iammeisha
YouTube: @meishawatson
Connect with Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @rekindledfaith
YouTube: @rekindledfaith
Connect with Andi
Instagram: @andreawallins
Substack: @SacredlySourced
Connect with Melanie
Instagram: @melanie.beerda
Website: melaniebeerda.ca

Running with Purpose: Faith & Endurance with Pierce Showe

Running with Purpose: Faith & Endurance
Guest: Pierce Showe
In this episode, Melanie and Andi welcome Pierce Showe, an ultramarathon champion and coach, to explore the connection between faith, identity, and endurance.
Pierce shares how he discovered purpose beyond achievements by grounding his identity in Christ. Together, they discuss how endurance challenges can become powerful spaces to encounter God, grow in discipline, and steward our bodies well.
They also highlight the importance of community and offer insight into seeking God in the midst of struggle—reminding listeners that He is present in every season.
Stay Connected:
Subscribe to the Rekindled Faith Podcast: https://pod.link/1723210330
Connect with Pierce Showe
Instagram: @PierceShowe 
YouTube: @PierceShowe
Connect with Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @RekindledFaith
YouTube: @RekindledFaith
Connect with Melanie
Instagram: @Melanie.Beerda
Website: melaniebeerda.ca
Connect with Andi
Instagram: @AndiWallins
Substack: @SacredlySourced
 

Building a Faith that Lasts with Teasi Cannon

Building a Faith that Lasts
Guest: Teasi Cannon
In this engaging conversation, Melanie, Andi and Teasi Cannon explore the themes of faith, ministry, and the importance of lifelong learning. Teasi shares her journey in podcasting, counselling, and apologetics, emphasizing the need for a faith that lasts through life's challenges. They discuss the role of personal testimonies, the significance of combining heart and mind in faith, and strategies for engaging with non-believers. The conversation also touches on the complexities of family dynamics in faith discussions and offers practical tools for deepening one's faith journey.
Additional Resources:
Subscribe to the Rekindled Faith Podcast
 
Stay Connected:
Connect with Teasi Cannon
YouTube (True Comfort Podcast)
Facebook
Apple Podcasts (True Comfort Podcast)
Teasi's Website teasicannon.com
BeEmboldened Ministries Website beemboldened.com
 Connect with Rekindled Faith
Instagram: @RekindledFaith
YouTube @RekindledFaith
 Connect with Melanie
Instagram: @MelanieBeerda
 Website: melaniebeerda.ca
Connect with Andi
Instagram: @AndiWallins
Substack @sacredlysourced
 
Takeaways:
Teasi Cannon hosts a podcast called True Comfort.
She emphasizes the importance of lifelong learning in faith.
Teasi has a background in pastoral counselling and mentoring.
Her ministry focuses on helping people cultivate lasting faith.
She shares her personal experiences of faith and hardship.
Apologetics plays a crucial role in understanding and defending faith.
Combining heart and mind is essential in the Christian journey.
Doubt and questions are normal in faith development.
Engaging with non-believers requires compassion and understanding.
Subjective truth is a common challenge in discussions about faith.