Explore every episode of the podcast Christmas Stories
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Send Us Your Stories | 04 sept. 2026 | 00:00:35 | |
Want to hear your voice on season 10 of Christmas Stories? Hear from John Fuller about a special way you could be on the upcoming season! | |||
| Season 9. Episode 4: Worshipping Jesus at Christmas | 19 déc. 2025 | 00:25:46 | |
How do you make time to worship Jesus during the Christmas season? You'll hear from some people who share what helps them to focus on Christ during the demands of the holidays. Plus, John Fuller and Tony Wood discuss two songs that Tony wrote, including the title track for his new book he's written. You'll be sure to get into the Christmas spirit after listening to this episode.
Manger Throne: Celebrating Christmas through Song
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| Season 9. Episode 3: The Value of Being with Family | 12 déc. 2025 | 00:27:29 | |
Your family matters more than any gifts you'll buy for them. John Fuller and Tony Wood are back to relive some ways they've spent with their kids at Christmas, and how that's changed over time. If you can't be with your family this Christmas season, we'll also have some encouragement for you. At the end, we'll close out this episode discussing a powerful song Tony wrote with Scott Krippayne.
Manger Throne: Celebrating Christmas through Song
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| Season 9. Episode 2: Don't Let Busyness Rob Your Christmas | 05 déc. 2025 | 00:31:23 | |
It's easy to get caught in the rush of holiday busyness. One more party to attend, presents to buy, and family members to visit. But what if you could pause and enjoy the season? John Fuller and Tony Wood open up about times they felt overly stressed around Christmas, and what helps them find joy. You'll also hear the story behind a song Tony wrote with Michael W. Smith on appreciating the moment.
Manger Throne: Celebrating Christmas through Song
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| Season 9. Episode 1: The Christmas Songs We Love | 28 nov. 2025 | 00:33:02 | |
What Christmas song did you love growing up? John Fuller and Tony Wood recount some of their favorite childhood Christmas songs, and Tony opens up about how he became a songwriter. Plus, you'll also hear about a song Tony wrote for Francessca Battistelli, and how some songs can gain meaning with time.
Manger Throne: Celebrating Christmas through Song
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| Season 9 Preview | 14 nov. 2025 | 00:00:58 | |
When do you start listening to Christmas music? Some of us listen to it all year long, while others prefer to wait until after Thanksgiving. Whatever your preference, we're excited to tell you about season 9 of Christmas Stories. John Fuller shares about how music will play a big role in our upcoming podcast season.
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| Season 8. Episode 4: Grandparents Who Love Christmas | 20 déc. 2024 | 00:18:38 | |
Grandparents have a profound influence on the next generation. To celebrate grandparents today, John Fuller talks with Diane Ingolia, who is herself a grandmother, about the joys of having grandchildren. Then, we hear from some friends on how their grandparents have impacted them. We'll then close out season 8 of Christmas Stories with a word of encouragement for keeping your focus on God, by tuning out distractions.
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Visit the Empty Nest, Full Life: Discovering God's Best for Your Next Blog
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| Season 8. Episode 3: When You're Single at Christmas | 13 déc. 2024 | 00:19:04 | |
Almost half of the adult population is currently single. But even if you aren't married or don't have kids yet, Christmas can still be a wonderful time for you. Our Boundless Show host Lisa Anderson interviews some young adults on what it's like to be single during the holidays. Also, John Fuller and Georgia Dunham will discuss ways singles can have fun celebrating Christmas this year.
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Find Bring Your Bible on Social Media
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| Season 8. Episode 2: Spouses Enjoying Christmas | 06 déc. 2024 | 00:21:52 | |
Christmas is one of the most romantic times of year. John Fuller and Diane Ingolia remember what each of their first Christmases were like when they got married. Plus, Greg and Erin Smalley discuss some fun ways they've enjoyed the Christmas season together. And John asks Diane why it's good to reminisce on sweet memories with your mate.
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Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage Podcast
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| Season 8. Episode 1: Celebrate Christmas With Your Kids | 29 nov. 2024 | 00:36:56 | |
One of the biggest joys of Christmas is celebrating it with your kids. Join John Fuller and Paul Batura, as they recount ways they've enjoyed Christmas with their children. You'll also hear Dr. Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James share ideas for how to savor Christmas with your children. Finally, some members of our staff discuss memories and traditions they've made with their parents.
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Contact our Counseling Department
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| Season 8 Preview | 25 nov. 2024 | 00:02:19 | |
How are you celebrating Christmas this year? As we get ready for season 8 of Christmas Stories, John Fuller shares how we will get you into the Christmas spirit, no matter what stage of life you're in!
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| Let's Celebrate Christmas in July! | 12 juil. 2024 | 00:17:20 | |
The weather is warm outside, and it's the perfect time to celebrate Christmas in July! Join John Fuller, Georgia Dunham, and Diane Ingolia as they share some ideas for how to enjoy Christmas in July. You'll also hear from Danny Huerta and Rebecca St. James who will discuss ways for parents to enjoy Christmas in July with their kids. Then, Greg and Erin Smalley give a few fun tips for couples.
Crazy Little Thing Called Marriage
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| Season 7. Episode 5: The Childlike Faith of Jesus | 15 déc. 2023 | 00:27:05 | |
As we conclude season 7 of Christmas Stories, we decided to take a fun look at how Jesus interacted with kids. Kim, Jesse and John share how the tender ways Christ treated children inspires them today, and Jim Daly explains why the Christmas story encourages him to make a difference.
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How to Serve Others this Christmas
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| Season 7. Episode 4: How Parenting Can Bless Your Christmas | 08 déc. 2023 | 00:43:23 | |
How has parenting changed your perspective of Christmas? John, Jesse and Kim recount what each of their first Christmases were like as parents. Plus, we interviewed several people on what helps them keep a childlike wonder during the season. 1976701
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How to Serve Others this Christmas
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| Season 7. Episode 3: Christmas Through the Eyes of a Little Boy | 01 déc. 2023 | 00:20:53 | |
Many boys wake up excited for Christmas day. To celebrate boys during the holidays, Kim, Jesse and John reflect on ways their sons have celebrated Christmas. You'll also hear Focus President Jim Daly read a story about a Christmas present he got as a young child.
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How to Serve Others this Christmas
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| Season 7. Episode 2: Christmas Through the Eyes of a Little Girl | 24 nov. 2023 | 00:24:03 | |
Little girls have a special and unique way they contribute to Christmas. You'll hear a few girls share about what they're most excited about for Christmas this year. Plus, John, Kim and Jesse discuss lessons we can learn from Mary in the original Christmas story.
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How to Serve Others this Christmas
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| Season 7. Episode 1: Childhood Christmas Memories | 17 nov. 2023 | 00:35:49 | |
What are some of your favorite Christmas memories as a kid? For a lot of us, it was the simple things such as being with family, or even an unexpected surprise. John, Kim and Jesse discuss a few of their favorite Christmas memoires, and share why it's good to be reflective during the holidays. You’ll also hear from a number of guests on what they loved about Christmas as a child.
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How to Serve Others this Christmas
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| Season 7 Preview | 13 nov. 2023 | 00:03:19 | |
Welcome to Season 7 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John Fuller and his fellow co-hosts, Jesse Florea and Kim Trobee, as they preview the upcoming podcast season, and share some of their favorite childhood Christmas traditions. Throughout this season, we’ll be exploring what it means to have a childlike faith during the holidays.
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| Season 6. Episode 5: Luke 2: 22 – 40: Seeing Jesus at Christmas | 16 déc. 2022 | 00:21:17 | |
What helps you remember Jesus during the Christmas season? As we wrap up Season 6 of Christmas Stories, we’ll hear Kati read Luke 2: 22 – 40, and our hosts share why this passage reminds us of the kind of life Jesus would live on earth.
Receive the book "25 Days of the Christmas Story" for your donation of any amount
Prepare Yourself for Advent 2022
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| Season 6. Episode 4: Luke 2: 1 – 21: Ways Christmas Inspires Us | 09 déc. 2022 | 00:34:45 | |
The birth of Jesus is the reason we celebrate Christmas. And yet, more than two thousand years later, it still inspires us to make a difference. You’ll hear Megan read Luke 2: 1 – 21, and some stories from John and the co-hosts about how Christmas inspires them today.
Receive the book "25 Days of the Christmas Story" for your donation of any amount.
Prepare Yourself for Advent 2022
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| Season 6. Episode 3: Luke 1: 57 – 80: The Characters of Christmas | 02 déc. 2022 | 00:27:47 | |
The characters of the first Christmas all played a role in helping bring Jesus to earth. John, Paul, Diane, and Lisa reflect on some of their favorite characters of Christmas. Plus, you’ll hear from some of our friends of the ministry who’ll discuss things they’ve learned from the characters of Christmas. Plus, Kennedy will read Luke 1: 57 – 80.
Celebrate Christmas: Giving My Kids a Holiday Legacy
Prepare Yourself for Advent 2022
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| Season 6. Episode 2: Luke 1: 39 – 56: Christmas as an Adult | 25 nov. 2022 | 00:33:00 | |
Becoming an adult has a unique way of helping you gain new perspectives on the story of Christmas. Our friend Kristin reads Luke 1: 39 – 56, and you’ll hear from some Focus staff and broadcast guests about things they now see in the Christmas story as they’ve gained life experience.
Prepare Yourself for Advent 2022
Celebrate Christmas: Giving My Kids a Holiday Legacy
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| Season 6. Episode 1: Luke 1: 5 – 38: Hearing the Christmas Story | 18 nov. 2022 | 00:27:31 | |
How did you first hear about the story of Christmas? For many people, it was in church or some other type of Christmas activity. John, Diane, Paul, and Lisa share what they’re looking forward to this year. And you’ll hear from a variety of guests on how they first learned about Christmas. Plus, Emerson, who works on our staff, reads Luke 1: 5 – 38.
Receive the book "25 Days of the Christmas Story" for your donation of any amount.
Prepare Yourself for Advent 2022
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| Season 6 Preview | 14 nov. 2022 | 00:02:50 | |
Welcome to Season 6 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John Fuller and his fellow co-hosts, Diane Ingolia, Lisa Anderson, and Paul Batura, as they preview the upcoming podcast season, and recall the first time they heard about the original Christmas story. Throughout this season, we’ll be reading portions of Luke chapters 1 and 2 and discuss how it still encourages us today. | |||
| Season 5, Episode 5: The Meaning of Family During Christmas | 17 déc. 2021 | 00:26:56 | |
Christmas has a way of bringing family together like no other time of the year. As Season 5 of Christmas Stories concludes, we'll hear some encouraging stories about how family traditions bring people together and help families find meaning. Plus, John Fuller and Paul Batura chat about why they've loved spending time with their families.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol".
Read the article "Welcome to Advent 2021".
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| Season 5, Episode 4: We Love Our Grandparents | 10 déc. 2021 | 00:23:19 | |
Having grandchildren has a way of bringing things full circle. To help bring a fun perspective on grandparenting, John Fuller talks with Roger and Diane Ingolia about their experiences as grandparents. We'll also hear from children on why they love grandma and grandpa.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol".
Read the article "No-Stress Grandparenting During the Holidays".
Read the article "Welcome to Advent 2021".
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| Season 5, Episode 3: Christmas as a Newlywed | 03 déc. 2021 | 00:24:48 | |
There's nothing like celebrating the Christmas season as a newlywed. To reflect back on those early years, John Fuller chats with Greg and Erin Smalley about their first Christmas as a married couple. They'll also explain how those first few years together have set the tone for holidays since then.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol".
Read the article "Our Newlywed Christmas"
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| Season 5, Episode 2: A Great Perspective for Singles | 26 nov. 2021 | 00:26:34 | |
Singles have a special place in God's family during the holidays. While it may feel lonely at times, Christmas can also be a season to create rich memories. Lisa Anderson joins John Fuller to discuss the unique opportunities singles have during the most wonderful time of the year.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol".
Read the article "A Single Adult's Christmas Bucket List.
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| Season 5, Episode 1: Through the Eyes of a Child | 19 nov. 2021 | 00:26:53 | |
There's something special about hearing why a child loves Christmas. John Fuller and Dr. Danny Huerta reflect back on the joys of Christmas as a child, and lessons they've learned now as parents. You'll also hear children tell what they're most looking forward to this year.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections on a Christmas Carol".
Read the article "Welcome to Advent 2021"
If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback. | |||
| Season 5 Preview | 15 nov. 2021 | 00:02:47 | |
Welcome to Season 5 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John Fuller as he chats with a variety of Focus on the Family friends about why each member of the family plays a special role in making the holidays special. Throughout each episode, you'll also hear from some of our friends and broadcast guests as they share memories and heart-warming stories.
Get the book "Keeping Christmas: 25 Advent Reflections" on a Christmas Carol.
If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback. | |||
| Season 4, Episode 5: The Beautiful Hope of Christmas | 18 déc. 2020 | 00:32:54 | |
With Christmas just one week away, it’s important to take a step back and reflect on how the story of Jesus gives us hope. John, Diane and Paul discuss how they find comfort through the story of Christ’s birth, and evangelist J. John explains what the purpose of Christmas is.
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| Season 4, Episode 4: A Heart-Warming Christmas Story (Pt. 2) | 11 déc. 2020 | 00:31:43 | |
During the holidays, it’s good to have fun with your loved ones. John, Lisa and Diane talk about their favorite activities to do with their family and friends; plus you’ll also hear part 2 of the Adventures in Odyssey drama, "It's a Pokenberry Christmas," based on the film, "It’s a Wonderful Life."
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| Season 4, Episode 3: A Heart-Warming Christmas Story (Pt. 1) | 04 déc. 2020 | 00:31:50 | |
With the Christmas season now in full swing, John, Diane and Lisa will talk about their favorite Christmas movies and what they’re most grateful for this year. You’ll also hear part 1 of the Adventures in Odyssey drama, "It's a Pokenberry Christmas," which is based on the classic movie, "It's a Wonderful Life."
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| Season 4, Episode 2: Bringing Peace to Your Community | 27 nov. 2020 | 00:29:00 | |
While Christmas can be a time to get together with family and friends, it’s also a beautiful opportunity to reach out to people in your community. John, Diane and Paul share about friends they admire for their willingness to reach out to others; and you’ll also hear the powerful audio drama, “When Christmas Came to Thorn Creek Bridge.”
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| Season 4, Episode 1: Preparing for Advent | 20 nov. 2020 | 00:24:25 | |
While 2020 has been a year filled with lots of twists and turns, the Christmas and Advent seasons can still give us hope. John, Lisa, Paul and Diane share how they’re planning to celebrate Christmas this year; and author Asheritah Ciuciu gives some creative and inspiring ways to celebrate Advent with your family.
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| Season 4 Preview | 16 nov. 2020 | 00:02:55 | |
Welcome to Season 4 of the Christmas Stories podcast! John, Paul, Lisa and Diane are back this year to preview Season 4, and to share their favorite things of the holiday season.
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| Season 3, Episode 5: Christmas Surprise | 20 déc. 2019 | 00:27:43 | |
Like a director behind a curtain, God is working in your life even when you can't see it. Today, John and Diane share stories about being surprised at Christmas; and you'll hear the incredible story of "The Innkeepers Dream," portrayed by the late David Shelton.
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| Season 3, Episode 4: Giving Hope This Holiday | 13 déc. 2019 | 00:30:28 | |
Serving God at Christmastime is a beautiful opportunity to shine light into a dark world. But you might be asking how? Today on Christmas Stories, you'll hear a powerful drama called "Shoemaker Martin" and John, Diane, and Paul share encouraging stories about serving God in simple ways.
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| Season 3, Episode 3: The Miracle of Christmas (Pt. 2) | 06 déc. 2019 | 00:23:49 | |
With Christmas approaching soon, we continue to remember the story that gave us this holiday. You'll hear the second part of "Nine Months in Nazareth" as Mary and Joseph welcomed Jesus into the world. Plus, Liz Curtis Higgs talks about God working through impossible circumstances, and John, Lisa, and Diane share some inspiring Christmas memories.
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| Season 3, Episode 2: The Miracle of Christmas (Pt. 1) | 29 nov. 2019 | 00:24:39 | |
Have you ever wondered what it was like walking in Mary and Joseph's shoes as they prepared for the birth of Jesus? John, Diane, and Lisa share the first part of a drama called "Nine Months in Nazareth" which re-tells Mary and Joseph's story. Plus, author Liz Curtis Higgs describes how the Nativity story can give you hope today.
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| Season 3, Episode 1: Enjoying the Season | 22 nov. 2019 | 00:16:25 | |
Like a strand of colorful lights brightening a tree, getting a Christmas present can spark gratitude within your heart. John, Lisa, Paul and Diane share stories about their favorite Christmas presents; and you'll hear a heartwarming drama called "Such As I Have," about finding gratitude in a hospital room.
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| Season 3 Preview | 18 nov. 2019 | 00:03:53 | |
Christmas is almost here, and to celebrate we're launching Season 3 of the Christmas Stories podcast! Join John, Paul, Lisa and Diane as they preview Season 3, and for a fun conversation about the Christmas songs they love, and the songs that drive them crazy.
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| Season 2, Episode 7: A Christmas Filled With Meaning | 21 déc. 2018 | 00:24:05 | |
What makes a Christmas meaningful? Diane and Paul talk about what makes Christmas meaningful to them; while Pam McCune, Kim Wier and Bob Welch share practical ways to add joy to the season.
Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF
Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name
Digital Download: Living in Peace with People Who Drive You Crazy
Digital Download: Family Dynamics During the Holidays
Article: Family Stress at Christmastime
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| Season 2, Episode 6: Getting Along With Family Members | 14 déc. 2018 | 00:32:13 | |
Let's face it – family get-togethers at Christmas can be challenging. Diane, Mike, and the Smalleys will explain how you can get along with difficult family members and show them the love of Christ.
Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF
Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name
Digital Download: Living in Peace with People Who Drive You Crazy
Digital Download: Family Dynamics During the Holidays
Article: Family Stress at Christmastime
If you've listened to any of our podcasts, please give us your feedback. | |||
| Season 2, Episode 5: The Story of Christmas | 07 déc. 2018 | 00:21:58 | |
We've all heard about Jesus and Santa Clause, but there's much more to the story of Christmas. Phil Vischer talks with John about how Christmas became a holiday, and Diane shares fun ways to tell your children about Christmas.
Kathi Lipp’s Stocking Stuffer List
Link to Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name
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| Season 2 Preview | 30 nov. 2018 | 00:02:05 | |
Welcome to Season 2 of the Christmas Stories podcast! John, Paul, Lisa and Diane are back this year to preview Season 2, and to share their favorite things of the holiday season.
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| Season 2, Episode 4: Christmas Stress-Test | 30 nov. 2018 | 00:22:52 | |
Christmas can feel stressed and overly rushed, but it doesn't have to be that way. John and Lisa discuss ways for you to have fun in the midst of busyness, while Kathi Lipp gives advice for staying organized during the Christmas season.
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| Season 2, Episode 3: Enjoying Christmas Without Breaking the Bank | 23 nov. 2018 | 00:19:28 | |
Black Friday shouldn't be the day when your bank account turns red. Mary Hunt gives advice for handling money well at Christmas, while Diane explains how you can teach your family members about money management. Plus, Lisa offers financial advice for singles.
Reasons for Becoming Debt-Free
The Very Best Christmas Money Can’t Buy
Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF
Advent Calendar – Knowing Him by Name
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| Season 2, Episode 2: The Story of Thanksgiving | 16 nov. 2018 | 00:29:55 | |
What makes Thanksgiving so important? Paul and John discuss the amazing story behind the holiday, and Eric Metaxas shares the importance of a man named Squanto.
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| Season 2, Episode 1: A Thankful Heart for the Holidays | 09 nov. 2018 | 00:20:35 | |
Thanksgiving is more than just a catchy holiday name; it's a way of life. Join John, Paul and Lisa as they share what they're most thankful for this year, and special guests share stories of God's redemption.
Download Kathi Lipp's Stocking Stuffer PDF
Thanksgiving Stories of Gratefulness
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