ABOUT THIS EPISODE
In this episode of This Is How We Thrive, Alisha Bynum sits down with Rev. Emanuel Echols, pastor of Salem United Methodist Church in Orange and St. James United Methodist Church in Beaumont, Texas. Emanuel shares how he is building relationships beyond the church walls and meeting young people in the places where they already gather. He talks about a community baptism day that welcomed 30 young people and what it means to pray with a football team before games.
Their conversation explores how a pastor can show up consistently, earn trust, and help people experience the love of Christ in everyday life. From the baptismal waters to the sidelines, Emanuel’s ministry offers a picture of a church engaged with its neighbors. For Emanuel, thriving begins with being present, listening, and making room for young people to know they belong.
Those who would like to be considered as a future guest are invited to submit a Thrive Story at txcumc.org/share-a-thrive-story
