The HeavenEarth Church Podcast Exists to Amplify The Conversation Happening at HeavenEarth Church.

https://heavenearthchurch.org/

This conversation centers around the vision to be a church that make a lasting impact in our community by building relationships with all kinds of folks, helping people know and live like Jesus together.

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Show Notes:

HeavenEarth Church Podcast

https://heavenearthchurch.org/

Guest: Evan Fruits

Host: Dr. Brad Miller

In this episode, Dr. Brad Miller welcomes Evan Fruits, a founding member and board participant at Heaven and Earth Church in Whiteland, Indiana. The conversation offers listeners an inside look at the church’s history, foundational values, and community impact, all woven together through Evan Fruits’s personal journey and unique perspective. Whether you’re exploring faith communities or simply curious about what makes Heaven and Earth Church distinctive, this episode provides honest, firsthand insights.

Episode Summary

The episode begins with a brief introduction to Heaven and Earth Church, contextualizing its mission to create lasting community impact. Evan Fruits shares how he became involved during the church’s earliest days, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that led a small group, meeting in a living room, to grow into a vibrant congregation.

The discussion moves into Evan Fruits’s personal history—growing up in Whiteland, his family, career, and the importance of local ties. As a financial planner and father of two, Evan Fruits offers a real-world perspective on balancing demanding careers, raising young children, and maintaining close family connections.

A significant portion of the episode dives into the unique leadership style and values at Heaven and Earth Church. Evan Fruits describes open, honest, and even at times challenging conversations that take place among the board and leadership, ensuring decisions are both collaborative and accountable. The episode highlights the church’s nontraditional approach to finances, partnerships, and worship—underscoring a commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and practical community service, especially through initiatives like Restoration Way, a weekly event addressing mental health and dependency.

Top 3 Takeaway Points

1. Radical Community and Belonging

A central theme is the church’s dedication to genuine community. At Heaven and Earth Church, everyone is noticed and valued, regardless of background or beliefs. The congregation strives to ensure that anyone attending—whether lifelong local or newcomer—feels seen and welcomed. As Evan Fruits describes, “Even if you don’t necessarily believe in all the things that you’re supposed to believe in as a Christian, you’re welcome here and you have a community” 10:12.

2. Collaborative & Transparent Leadership

Heaven and Earth Church is characterized by a collaborative culture where honest debate is encouraged. Board and staff make decisions together, openly sharing information—especially regarding finances and key opportunities. Pushback is welcomed, and transparency is the norm, contributing to a sense of trust and stability within the community 13:13. This ensures that no single voice dominates and that the church can pursue its vision with integrity and practical accountability.

3. Making a Lasting Impact Through Partnerships

The church’s focus on partnership and community service is exemplified by initiatives like affordable housing through their nonprofit arm and offering space to organizations such as Resources for Hope. These partnerships extend the church’s reach beyond Sunday worship, actively addressing tangible needs in the broader community and cementing their commitment to serving others 19:08.

Listen and Learn More

Tune in for an inspiring, transparent conversation about what it means to build a church centered on acceptance, collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. For more information, visit heavenearthchurch.org or consider joining an upcoming Sunday service or Wednesday’s Restoration Way event.