The Power of Proximity: Reaching Samaria in Your Own Community with Reverend Paul Robinson

In this episode of the We Are Vineyard Podcast, Josh Williams talks with Reverend Paul Robinson about how he defines justice and mercy, the crucial interplay of the two, and some of the upstream initiatives he’s currently focusing on. They discuss the value of investing in the health and well-being of your city both practically and spiritually, and how Reverend Robinson’s church uses the BLESS model as an evangelism tool. Reverend Robinson also shares about immersive cultural experiences, some of the challenges pastors are currently facing, and what’s bringing him hope. Paul Robinson is the Executive Minister of the newly formed Serve Locally for the Evangelical Covenant Church. Serve Locally plants and equips local churches that contribute to a more caring and just world through evangelism, discipleship, biblical justice, and church health. We empower leaders by offering resources, curated experiences, and leadership development. From June of 2019 to October 2023 Paul served as the Executive Minister of Love Mercy Do Justice (LMDJ). Prior to this role Paul was Senior Community Leadership Manager with the Wilder Center for Communities, former Director of the organization’s James P. Shannon Leadership Institute and Church Planter. Paul has partnered with nonprofit, for-profit, education, government and community individuals and organizations in core value clarification, leadership development, intercultural agility, and capacity building to help them better lead themselves and others. Paul is most comfortable at the intersection of ideas, difference, passion and effective action. He enjoys using his skills in meeting design, facilitation and convening to catalyze meaningful connections to stimulate individual and community transformation. Robinson holds a B.S. degree in Finance from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Divinity degree from McCormick Theological Seminary. Paul Robinson is 2017 AARP Minnesota and Pollen Fifty over Fifty honoree. Paul is married to Kim and together they have seven adult children. Robinson’s combined experience in ministry, business, nonprofit management, and leadership development spans 30 years. Show Notes: We Are Vineyard - Reverend Paul Robinson: Living At The Intersection Of Difference Learn more about Sankofa Learn more about the ECC’s immersive learning experiences Learn more about BLESS Love Mercy Do Justice on Instagram: @LMDJ_ECC

Show Notes

Other Episodes

Episode 26

Bob and Penny Fulton: A Deep Dive Into The Origin Story Of The Vineyard

Episode 30

Greg Surratt: President and Co-Founder of the Association of Related Churches

Episode 33

Leadership Under Pressure: Dr. Jim Wilder