The Glass House
Ministry Leaders and their families live in a “glass house”—an environment where they are left vulnerable to the stress of ministry, the criticism of others, and feel the spotlight on their personal weaknesses. Lifeway's "The Glass House" is a space where ministry leaders will shed light on the challenges they often don't feel permission to talk about. Listeners who work in the trenches of church life will feel seen and gain tools to navigate ministry and life. Those who live outside this "glass house" will better understand what it's like to dwell there. Join Ben and Lynley Mandrell for these shockingly confessional—yet redemptive—conversations.
The Glass House
133. Breaking the Silence on Infertility: A Conversation with Doug Brown
Use Left/Right to seek, Home/End to jump to start or end. Hold shift to jump forward or backward.
Infertility is a silent struggle that affects more people in our churches than we may realize. For many couples, the journey is filled with grief, unanswered questions, and a longing that can feel isolating. How can we, as ministry leaders, create spaces where these struggles are acknowledged, where both men and women feel seen, and where the church becomes a place of comfort rather than silence?
In this episode, Ben and Lynley Mandrell sit down with Doug Brown as he shares his deeply personal journey through infertility—the emotional and spiritual challenges, the impact on relationships, and the often-overlooked grief that comes with it.
Doug emphasizes the importance of community support, vulnerability in ministry, and open conversations about loss. He also explores the complexities of adoption, the need to acknowledge both mothers and fathers in these struggles, and how churches can cultivate spaces of empathy and encouragement. Through his organization, Uniquely Knitted, Doug is dedicated to providing resources and support for those navigating the difficult road of infertility.
Reflection Question: How can you foster a culture of openness and support in your ministry for those experiencing infertility and loss?
Join us for this heartfelt conversation as we learn how to walk alongside those facing infertility with compassion, grace, and hope.
SHOW LINKS:
The Infertility Feelings Podcast