
When Dr. Greg Clark joined the West Chowan Baptist Association as the new Associational Mission Strategist (AMS), fresh ideas began to take shape for reaching churches in innovative ways. The association wanted to provide resources to churches without requiring extra travel, meetings, or seminars. “A digital platform like a podcast was the perfect way to connect our churches and share what the Lord is doing in our community,” shared Pastor Derik Davis, who helped spearhead the initiative.
Turning Dreams into Reality
Their vision became a reality thanks to a ministry grant from Provision, which offers funding to NC Baptist churches and organizations to support various outreach ministry efforts. Dr. Clark introduced the West Chowan Baptist Association to this opportunity during a Pastor’s Cohort meeting in 2024. “When I heard about Provision's ministry grants, I saw it as a meaningful chance to do something different,” Davis explained. “With their support, we had the resources to make this dream a reality.”

Provision’s grant, combined with other funding, helped establish a fully equipped podcast studio, launch an active YouTube channel, and develop a growing lineup of podcast episodes featuring local pastors, ministry leaders, and lay leaders. “Provision was the first to believe in our vision and invest in it,” they shared. “Without their seed money, we may have never started.”
The response from churches and the community has been overwhelmingly positive. “We’ve received so much support and hope that this new resource will add value to everything the association offers,” Davis said. “People are often nervous about being on camera, but the relaxed environment of the studio helps ease their fears.”
Building Bridges Through Podcast Ministry
The podcast ministry serves as a platform for collaboration and outreach. Churches are encouraged to contribute episode ideas, and many pastors and lay leaders have embraced the opportunity to participate in interview-style podcasts. With weekly episodes in development, the association is committed to steady growth while establishing foundational principles and best practices.
For West Chowan Baptist Association, the grant has been transformative. “We’ve seen people come together for a shared purpose, stepping out in faith to participate in something new,” Davis reflected. “This ministry isn’t just a tool—it’s a way for churches to connect, grow, and glorify the Lord together.”
As the podcast ministry gains momentum, the association encourages others to support it through prayer, sharing episodes in small groups or Sunday School classes, and engaging with the content by liking and subscribing. “Prayer is the catalyst for our hearts to align with God’s will,” they emphasized.
Looking ahead, the association is filled with gratitude. “Provision’s generosity has planted seeds for something the Lord will use greatly,” Davis shared. “Giving back is a natural response to the incredible gift of grace we’ve received in Christ Jesus. We’re just grateful to be part of His work.”
If you're interested in learning more about West Chowan's new podcast, visit their YouTube channel and explore their latest content.
Editor’s Note: Ministry grants like the one that made this podcast possible are a core part of Provision’s commitment to supporting NC Baptist churches. Applications for the 2025 ministry grants open on May 1 and close on August 15, providing an opportunity for churches and organizations to secure funding for impactful outreach projects. Click here to learn more.
