Faith at the Fair

In this special six-year anniversary episode of Community Spotlight, host Braxton sits down with Pastor David Murray of Glory Land Missionary Baptist Church in Kings Mountain, NC. Pastor Murray shares how his church is bringing the gospel outside its walls—specifically through a powerful outreach at the Cleveland County Fair. From serving food and engaging fairgoers with Bible questions to planting seeds of faith through one-on-one conversations, he explains how God is using everyday opportunities—even the “devil’s playground”—to reach the lost. His passion for revival, community, and unapologetic love for Jesus shines through in every story and prayer.

God at Work at Lenoir-Rhyne

Braxton sits down with Todd Cutter—campus pastor, Director of Spiritual Life, and Director of Counseling at Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, NC—to hear how God is moving among college students. Todd shares how students are leaning into faith, engaging in civil conversations, and caring for one another in a post-COVID culture. From a new 24/7 food pantry to weekly chapel gatherings and community care packages, God’s love is being made visible on campus. Plus, hear how local churches can pray, support, and come alongside this next generation as they grow in Christ.

CPS Construction

In this episode, Braxton talks with Cole Thompson of CPS Construction in Shelby, NC, about how a construction company is making an eternal impact. From organizing the Diaper Run bike ride to support foster families with diapers, to providing Roofs for Veterans at no cost, Cole shares how God has opened doors to serve people in practical ways. Hear how partnering with ministries like the One More One Less Project has inspired families to step into foster care, and how everyday skills—whether in construction or any field—can be used to show the love of Jesus.

Legacy of Hope International

Braxton welcomes returning guest Bryn Journey from Legacy of Hope International, a WNC-based, Christ-centered nonprofit fighting human trafficking through prevention, survivor-led education, and global outreach. Bryn unpacks “safety parties” that teach kids body safety and the power of “no,” warns about online grooming, and shares how LOHI’s work in Cambodia has grown into churches, schools, and prevention training. Plus: ways to volunteer locally, and a creative “Sip & See” art pop-up supporting 20 years of impact. A hopeful, practical convo on protecting kids, empowering communities, and shining light in dark spaces.

CPR Missions

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Aaron McMahon, founder of CPR Missions and former police officer who left law enforcement to follow God’s call into full-time ministry. Aaron shares how his journey from the streets of Knoxville to international missions began with simply stepping out in faith and sharing the gospel one-on-one. Hear how CPR Missions is reaching the homeless, training believers to evangelize effectively, and preparing to take this work to Papua New Guinea. Aaron’s story is a powerful reminder that God is still changing lives when we say “yes” to Him.

Mini Batch Bakery

In this episode of Community Spotlight, Braxton sits down with Stacey Fields, owner of Mini Batch Bakery, to share how God has been at work in her life and business. Stacey opens up about stepping out in faith, the joy of serving her community, and how small acts of generosity can lead to big impacts. From supporting local nonprofits to creating a kitchen filled with laughter and encouragement, Stacey reminds us that God’s faithfulness shows up in both the everyday miracles and the unexpected blessings.

Roadside Ministry

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton reconnects with Pastor Mack from Roadside Ministry as he prepares for their third annual 40-day crusade. Traveling in an RV with a portable early-church-style chapel, Pastor Mack and his wife stop at gas stations, malls, rest areas, and more to share the simple gospel message, pray with people, and meet practical needs. This year’s theme, from Luke 10:2, focuses on the plentiful harvest and the need for more laborers. Pastor Mack shares powerful stories from past crusades, including lives saved from despair, thousands of Gospels of John distributed, and unique outreach methods like giving bottled water, children’s gifts, and gift cards to those in need. He also details how listeners can partner financially, donate supplies, or join them for the September 11th launch in Mooresville, NC.

Totally Free Clothes Store

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Melanie Burr, leader of the Totally Free Clothing Store in Shelby, NC—a volunteer-run ministry providing free clothes, accessories, and essentials to anyone in need. Melanie shares how she stepped in to keep the store open after COVID, expanding to a larger space and serving the community through God’s provision. From helping the homeless and disaster survivors to supporting foster families, the store has become a place of hope, prayer, and practical help. She explains how the store operates without paid staff, relies on donations and fundraisers, and is now preparing to open a thrift store to help cover expenses. Melanie also invites volunteers to join in serving, from sorting donations to packing backpacks for school kids, demonstrating how one act of faith can make a big difference in a community.

The Singles Network

In this Community Spotlight, Braxton talks with Chris Fota from The Singles Network about the exciting growth of singles ministry in Western North Carolina and beyond. Chris shares how God is opening doors for churches to reach singles—whether never married, widowed, or single parents—through new Sunday school classes, Bible studies, and retreats. They discuss the upcoming Flat Rock Labor Day Singles Retreat with its theme “Truth and Lies,” designed to help attendees recognize God’s truth over the enemy’s deception while building friendships and community. Chris also highlights her other ministry events, including the Restoration Experience for women, and ongoing outreach efforts for hurricane relief.

The Orchard Church

In this episode of Community Spotlight on The Light FM, Braxton sits down with Pastor Steven Buys of The Orchard Church to explore the real-world impact of Acts of Summer — a movement encouraging believers to live like the early Church. Pastor Steven shares inspiring testimonies of transformed lives in Western North Carolina, including a powerful story of a bank teller whose encounter with a churchgoer led him to Christ.

The heart of the Orchard Church is “to be the church to the community,” a mission that fuels their outreach, including a bold new church plant in West Asheville. Pastor Steven details how this initiative, born from a legacy of church revitalization, is set to empower a fresh, independent congregation. He also shares about his book The Doorway of Prayer, written to help believers move from a “prayer life” to a life of prayer.

This episode is a compelling call to bold faith, everyday evangelism, and the power of sharing your story. Whether you’re walking into a bank or planting a church, God moves when we step out in obedience.

Community Spotlight

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