From Maintenance to Mission: Church and Community Renewal with Dean Miller

Dean Miller joins the podcast to share how churches can move from maintenance to mission—especially in rural and challenging contexts. Drawing on his pastoral experience, Dean encourages leaders to listen deeply, build community partnerships, and rethink success in ministry.

He highlights stories of churches making a real difference by focusing on relationships, not just programs, and reminds us that innovation doesn’t require a big budget—just curiosity and courage. This episode offers practical encouragement for pastors feeling isolated, with a hopeful reminder: faithful presence matters, and God is still at work.

What is Rural Renewal Podcast by Ascent Movement?

Renewal is happening in small-town churches. Many of Jesus' followers across rural regions are uncovering exciting possibilities as they explore creative and practical approaches to loving their neighbors. This podcast from Ascent will introduce you to ministry leaders serving in rural contexts to provide examples and inspiration for being the Church and addressing the needs unique to your community.