Outside the Sanctuary

In this lively episode of Outside the Sanctuary, Bill Merkh and Marc McCleary welcome guest Mark Johnson for a conversation filled with stories, history, and laughter. Marc and Bill share highlights from their unforgettable ten-day journey through Israel—walking the streets of Jerusalem, floating in the Dead Sea, and visiting Bethlehem in Palestine. Mark brings his own unique perspective, recalling his semester abroad in Israel and an adventurous side trip to Egypt that led to a photo he probably shouldn't have taken. Together, the three swap memories of faith, culture, and travel, blending humor with heartfelt reflection. It's an ep...

This episode of Outside the Sanctuary podcast is brimming with laughter and joy as Pastor Vince, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh gather to swap stories about their favorite holiday traditions. This episode is a lively mix of playful Halloween memories, hilarious Thanksgiving gatherings, and heartwarming Christmas celebrations. Their conversation is full of chuckles, good-natured teasing, and the kind of jovial spirit that makes you feel like you're right there at the table with them.

Amid the fun, they reflect on how God's presence shines through each season—whether in the gratitude of Thanksgiving prayers, the wonder of Ch...

Step outside the ordinary with hosts Marc McCleary, Katrina McDonald, and Bill Merkh as they welcome Lauren Correa, founder of the online magazine Lauren. This episode dives into the vibrant mix of faith, mental health, fashion, and food, showing how spirituality and creativity collide in everyday life.

Lauren shares the story behind her magazine and how it became a space for honest conversations about Christianity and wellness, while also serving up style inspiration and recipes. Bill brings his trademark humor, reflecting on his blogging days with outrageous stories that keep the laughs coming. With Marc and Katrina...

In this heartfelt episode of The Outside the Sanctuary podcast, hosts Bill Merkh and Katrina McDonald sit down with two inspiring Immanuel Baptist Church Women's Sunday School leaders—Lisa Merkh (Bill's wife) and Christine Neitzel—for an intimate conversation about the spiritual and practical sides of teaching. Together, they explore how Lisa and Christine prepare each week to lead their classe with purpose and clarity. Thier lesson planning and staying grounded in Scripture. They also discuss their personal journeys of faith and what they believe God is calling them toward

Whether you're a seasoned teacher or simply curi...

Join Bill Merkh, Steve Entwistle, Katrina McDonald, and Pastor Vince McDonald for a wild ride through the unexpected places we hear God's voice—in secular movies, mainstream music, and the cultural noise around us. In what Bill affectionately dubs a "bottle episode," the crew dives into a freewheeling, laughter-filled conversation that's part theology, part pop culture, and all heart.

Expect chaos, conviction, and a whole lot of joy as they unpack how the Spirit speaks through unlikely sources. Whether it's a blockbuster film or a chart-topping hit, this episode reminds us that God's truth isn't confined to ch...

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Bill Merkh, Katrina McDonald, and Pastor Vince McDonald sit down with Dylan Suplee, the passionate leader of the church's youth group, Abide. Dylan opens up about his personal journey—sharing the challenges and triumphs that shaped his faith and leadership. From pivotal moments in his past to the vision he carries for the future of Abide, Dylan offers a candid look at what it means to guide young hearts in today's world. Whether you're part of the congregation or simply curious about youth ministry, this conversation will leave yo...

In this episode of Outside the Sanctuary, hosts Bill Merkh, Katrina McDonald, and Pastor Vince McDonald dive deep into the intersection of faith and finances. Through candid conversation and biblical reflection, they explore the concept of stewardship—not just as a church buzzword, but as a lifestyle rooted in Scripture. From practical budgeting tips to thoughtful family planning, the trio unpacks how financial decisions can reflect spiritual values and honor God's provision. Whether you're navigating personal finances or seeking a more intentional approach to planning for your family's future, this episode offers wisdom, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on al...

In this compelling episode, hosts Bill Merkh and Pastor Vince McDonald sit down with author Brandon Simpkins to unpack his provocative new book, Bound In Lies: The Biblical Case Against Slavery. Together, they explore the historical, theological, and cultural dimensions of slavery as portrayed in Scripture—challenging long-held assumptions and confronting misinterpretations that have echoed through centuries.

Brandon shares the inspiration behind his book and walks listeners through key biblical texts that have been used to justify slavery, offering a fresh, rigorous analysis that reveals a radically different narrative. The conversation dives deep into the moral and sp...

Is the end near? The Lord will return, but no one knows the time or day. Yet, nowadays, people keep telling us they know when He is coming back. This episode Pastor Vincent McDonald and Bill Merkh discuss the end of days.

Listen now before the rapture.

This week Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald and Bill Merkh have a conversation with Lynda Lotierzo from being on the Board of Education in Maple Shade to her battle with breast cancer. In this deeply moving episode of Outside the Sanctuary, we hear her powerful testimony of faith, resilience, and hope in the face of cancer. Lynda opens up about her diagnosis, the emotional and spiritual battles she faced, and how her relationship with God sustained her through the darkest moments.

With compassion and honesty, the conversation explores the role of church, prayer, and personal strength in...

In this heartfelt and thought-provoking podcast, the panel explores the church's evolving role in supporting individuals navigating life after divorce. This episode is hosted by Dr. Marc McCleary, Katrina McDonald, Lisa Merkh, and Bill Merkh. The show offers a compassionate yet candid look at how faith communities can better serve those healing from marital breakdown.

Bill Merkh shares his personal journey through divorce. This episode dives deep into the emotional complexities of ending a marriage, highlighting how vulnerability, courage, and his faith in God are essential to healing and growth.

In the latest episode Bill Merkh, Katrina McDonald and Steve Entwistle discuss the power of prayer. What does prayer look like? What does the Bible say about prayer? Who can speak with God?

During this heartfelt episode, the three hosts—each with unique backgrounds and spiritual journeys—gather to explore the transformative power of prayer. Their conversation weaves together personal testimonies, biblical wisdom, and honest reflections on how prayer has shaped their lives.

Listen and enjoy

Do you know what apologetics means? What does your faith look like? In this episode Bill Merkh has the conversation with Pastor Vincent McDonald, Katrina McDonald and guest, Teddy Chandler on the topic of christian apologetics. They examine why they believe what they believe and how they know the truth.

Teddy talks about the class he is teaching at Immanuel Baptist Church on Apologetics

Please join them and listen.

Bill Merkh sits down with Pastor Vince McDonald and Katrina McDonald for an insightful conversation about the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-life balance in today's fast-paced world. As our schedules become increasingly packed, finding time for rest, family, and spiritual growth can feel overwhelming. In this discussion, they explore practical ways to prioritize the church in a busy lifestyle, and why staying connected to a faith driven community matters more than ever.

In this episode, Bill Merkh is joined by Pastor Vince McDonald and Katrina McDonald for a powerful conversation with local missionary Pascal Tuley from the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Burlington, NJ.

Together, they dive into Pascal's mission of reaching young athletes and coaches across New Jersey with the love of Christ. As part of a donor funded ministry, Pascal shares how the FCA equips the sports world with biblical teaching, personal mentorship, and the Word of God—one athlete at a time.

Follow Pascal on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fcaburlington/

Bill Merkh is joined by Pastor Vince and Greta McDonald's kids. Vince McDonald Jr., Deanna Kranefeld, and Natalie Ostrander. They discuss growing up in a pastor's home and their journeys in life. Each one shares a different and unique perspective.

Listen to this fun and entertaining episode to hear thier stories.

Bill Merkh sits down with Pastor Vince McDonald and Lisa Merkh for a thought provoking conversation about the truth behind ghosts and the paranormal.

Are spirits and supernatural creatures real? What does the Bible actually say about loved ones who have passed? Can they return as ghosts? And is working as a medium considered sinful?

Tune in as they explore these mysterious topics from a biblical perspective.

Bill Merkh sits down with Pastor Vince McDonald to discuss the topic of protesting.

In this conversation, they explore the nature of protest. From peaceful demonstrations and boycotts to more extreme actions like riots and violence. What does the Bible say about standing up for a cause? Are there godly ways to express disagreement, and where should we draw the line?

Bill Merkh sits down with Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald, and Dr. Marc McCleary to explore the topic of end of life care.

When a person is given a prognosis of six months or less to live, families are often faced with the decision of whether to place their loved one in hospice care to help them live out their final days in comfort.

Hospice care is sometimes misunderstood or viewed as a sign of neglect, with the responsibility of caregiving handed over to nurses and medical staff. This raises important...

Bill Merkh, Pastor Vince McDonald, Katrina McDonald sit down with a special guest, Christine Neitzel, to explore how everyday people can make a lasting impact in the Christian community.

Christine, a dedicated member of Immanuel Baptist Church for over 20 years, continues to serve faithfully in many behind the scenes roles. Though she may not be in the spotlight, her influence reaches far outside the walls of the sanctuary, touching lives and embodying what it truly means to belong.

Bill Merkh sits down with Steve Entwistle and Dr. Marc McCleary for an honest conversation about temptation. The Bible shows us that temptation itself isn't sin—it's giving in that causes harm. Even Jesus was tempted by Satan, but He overcame it by standing on Scripture and living out the fruits of the Spirit. This episode reminds us that while temptation is part of being human, we're never alone in the fight—God gives us the strength to resist and follow his perfect example.

Bill Merkh and Katrina McDonald interview Katrina's sister-in-law, Natalie Ostrander, to discuss how maintaining a positive perspective can transform your day. Everyone faces difficult moments, and it's easy to fall into negative thinking. But with God's help, there is always a way forward. He provides the perfect example of how to remain grateful, even in challenging times.

False prophets are all around us, and their influence can be subtle but dangerous. In this eye-opening episode, Bill Merkh is joined by Steve Entwistle and Dr. Marc McCleary to uncover how to spot a false prophet and why it's so easy to be led astray by deceptive teachings. If we're not vigilant, we risk embracing doctrines the Bible warns us against.

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Pastor Greg Ginion and Bill Merkh explore the aspects of forgiveness. They look at God's forgiveness and how we are directed to forgive. We need to forgive others and ourselves as well.

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Bill Merkh, along with co-hosts Steve Entwistle and Katrina McDonald, interviews Bill's wife, Lisa Merkh, about her journey to finding faith later in life. She shares how she transformed her former lifestyle to align with her newfound beliefs. Today, Lisa actively serves on the Immanuel Baptist Church AV team and helps lead the women's Bible study group.

Bill Merkh and Pastor Greg Ginion reflect on Bill's early days as a stand-up comedian and blogger. They also discuss the plays performed by church members and how incorporating entertainment into church life helped strengthen relationships within the church body. In fact, this very podcast serves as another form of connection and entertainment.

Bill Merkh and Katrina McDonald interview Jess Johnson about her role as a previous child life specialist. In this position, she supports children and their families through traumatic medical experiences in, helping them feel safe and aiding in their emotional recovery throughout their stay in the hospital. It's an essential yet often overlooked job that can be emotionally taxing.

Idolatry is one of the most challenging sins to confront, largely because it often falls into a grey area. Anything that distracts us or takes precedence over our relationship with God can become an idol. In this episode, hosts Bill Merkh, Steve Entwistle, and Katrina McDonald explore the far-reaching impact of idolatry on the world—and discuss practical steps we can take to break free from its grip.

This week Bill Merkh, Katrina McDonald and Steve Entwistle sit down with Dr. Marc McCleary. They tackle different topics of being a Christian husband, father and doctor. They discuss his military service and why he has made some of those decisions.

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This week's episode has Bill Merkh and two special co-hosts, Steve Entwistle and Katrina McDonald talking with guest, Sami Chandler. Sami grew up in the church watching both of her parents serve, she learned the importance of not only going to church, but also serving.

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Everyone experiences anger, but is all anger the same?

What's the difference between righteous anger and sinful anger? In Scripture, even Jesus expressed anger—so does that mean He sinned? In this episode, Bill Merkh and Pastor Vince McDonald explore the powerful distinction between the righteous anger Jesus displayed and the kind of anger that leads us into sin. They also share practical insights on how we can manage our own anger in a healthy, godly way.

Pastor Vince and Bill Merkh invite a new guest. How challenging is it to run a business while staying true to your faith in Christ? For Brian Bowman, one of the owners of Freddy's Frozen Custard and Steakburgers, it's a daily commitment. His mission: serve great food and create an even greater environment. Hear more about Brian's journey during this episode. Order At One Of His Delicious Restaurants Burlington Location ► https://www.freddys.com/location/burlington-nj Cinnaminson Location ► https://www.freddys.com/location/cinnaminson-burlington-pike-nj

Pastor Vince and Bill Merkh sit down with Mark Johnson, a track coach and teacher in a public school. Mark shows his kids how to be better track, but also shows them how to be better people.

He shows the love of Christ and stands up for what is right.

What is Legalism? How does it affect the church? Pastor Vince McDonald and Bill Merkh discuss Legalism. What is it exactly? How can it harm the church? Listen and find out.

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This week, Pastor Vince McDonald and Bill Merkh sit down with Katrina McDonald, mother of three and daughter-in-law to Pastor Vince. They discuss the challenges of motherhood, including her daughter Vivian's stay in the CHOP intensive care unit, which led to surgery, and her son Grayson's constant struggle with low respiratory immunity. They share how building strong trust in God and your spouse is crucial for a healthy marriage and relationship as parents.

Pastor Vince and Bill welcome back Pastor Greg. PV and PG discuss their duties and involvement as two of the Maple Shade Police Department chaplains. They discuss how they became involved, different trainings and how they deal with difficult situations.

Join us in this fascinating episode. And remember to Follow Us!

Pastor Vince McDonald and Bill Merkh sit down with author and pastor, Shane Colwell, from Grace Bible Church in Barrington, NJ, to discuss his book, I Know It Hurts: 6 Biblical Truths from a Pastor and Father of a Medically Fragile Child. In this heartfelt interview, they explore Shane's journey as the father of his son, Chase, and delve into the emotional highs and lows of raising a child with special needs.

Buy Shane's Book ► https://www.amazon.com/KNOW-HURTS-Biblical-Medically-Fragile/dp/B0DTB15KST

This week's episode talks frankly about the struggles of anxiety and depression. Pastor Vince and Bill discuss the real life battles of both. As Christians how are we suppose to deal with them?

Pastor Vince and Bill are joined by Keeley Samson. She discusses her life as a missionary to Australia and her time back home as the director of children's ministries at Immanuel. Join them as learn about Keeley's amazing journey, from the people, the friendships and translating the Bible.

Pastor Vince and Bill welcome Steve Entwistle to the podcast. They discuss home schooling, public school and private school. Is there a right choice in today's world? What is the parent's role? What can the church do? Listen now.