Church Matters

The Challenge of Loving All Our Neighbors with Bishop Betsey Monnot

In this episode of Church Matters, hosts Fr. Brian Gross and Chris Hubbs talk with The Right Reverend Betsey Monnot, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa. Bishop Betsey talks about her recent participation in protests in Minnesota, and about the challenge of loving our neighbors, especially the ones who disagree with us.
Church Matters is a production of Christ Episcopal Church of Cedar Rapids, a member of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa.
[Season 1, Episode 4: The Challenge of Loving All our Neighbors with Bishop Betsey Monnot]

Episode 4 Preview: Bishop Betsey Monnot

Episode 4 of Church Matters will release on April 6, 2026! Join us as we talk with the Right Reverend Betsey Monnot, Bishop of the Diocese of Iowa, about the challenge of loving our neighbors in turbulent times.

It's Not Like Sunday School with Anna Venenga

In this episode of Church Matters, hosts Fr. Brian Gross, Charles Crawley, and Chris Hubbs talk with Anna Venenga. During her undergrad years she was the beloved "Anna the Intern" at Christ Church; now she comes back to share with us from her experiences in her first year as a student at Virginia Theological Seminary.
Church Matters is a production of Christ Episcopal Church of Cedar Rapids, a member of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa.
[Season 1, Episode 3: It's Not Like Sunday School with Anna Venenga]

Episode 3 Preview: Anna Venenga

Episode 3 of Church Matters will release on March 2nd, 2026! Join us as we talk with former Christ Church intern Anna Venenga about her first year as a student at Virginia Theological Seminary.

How to Help Boys with Rev. Eric Rucker

In this episode of Church Matters, hosts Fr. Brian Gross and Chris Hubbs talk with Rev. Eric Rucker, the director of Simpson Youth Academy and prist at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church in Des Moines, Iowa. Eric's work with the Simpson Youth Academy gives him first-hand insight into the challenges facing boys and young men both in our society and in the church.
Church Matters is a production of Christ Episcopal Church of Cedar Rapids, a member of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa.
[Season 1, Episode 2: How to Help Boys with Rev. Eric Rucker]

Episode 2 Preview: Rev. Eric Rucker

Episode 2 of Church Matters will release on February 2nd, 2026! Join us as we talk with the Reverend Eric Rucker, director of the Simpson Youth Academy.

Caring for our Immigrant Neighbors with Rev. Jonathan Heifner

In this episode of Church Matters, hosts Fr. Brian Gross and Charles Crawley talk with Rev. Jonathan Heifner of St. Paul's United Methodist Church of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Jonathan is active in community organizing in support of immigrants and refugees, leading protests outside of the local ICE office and working with Escucha Mi Voz Iowa. 
Church Matters is a production of Christ Episcopal Church of Cedar Rapids, a member of the Episcopal Diocese of Iowa.
[Season 1, Episode 1: Caring for Our Immigrant Neighbors with Rev. Jonathan Heifner]

Episode 1 Preview: Rev. Jonathan Heifner

Episode 1 of Church Matters will release on January 5th, 2026! Join us as we talk with the Reverend Jonathan Heifner, lead pastor of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Cedar Rapids. 

Church Matters - Podcast Trailer

Coming Soon: Church Matters - a podcast about church matters, and why church matters in the world. A production of Christ Episcopal Church in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Subscribe today in your favorite podcast player!