In this episode of the Dulin Weekly Podcast, Pastor James opens up about the deep, Spirit-led discernment process currently unfolding at Dulin United Methodist Church in Falls Church, Virginia. Fourteen months into his pastorate, James shares why Dulin has chosen to pause and truly listen—through small group listening sessions and a congregation-wide questionnaire—before rushing toward a five-year plan or strategic vision. Drawing on nearly 200 pages of anonymous listening-session transcripts, James reflects on what it means to discern God's will rather than simply decide it, and how churches can align their budget, mission, and ministry with what the Holy Spirit is actually stirring among the people—not just what leadership assumes should happen next. This episode offers a thoughtful, honest look at congregational discernment, spiritual listening, and what it takes to build a truly caring, Spirit-attentive faith community.
In This Episode:
- Why Dulin is in a season of deep listening rather than fast planning
- The seven questions being asked in listening sessions and the anonymous questionnaire
- How nearly 200 pages of transcripts are shaping the congregation's discernment
- The difference between deciding God's will and discerning it
- Why voices from newer members matter as much as longtime members
- How Dulin's mission and outreach team is beginning to tell better stories of impact
- An invitation for every voice in the congregation to be heard—whether in person or by questionnaire
- Reflections on what it truly means to be a "caring congregation"
