In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. J. Wendell Mapson Jr. and his son, Jesse Mapson III, share a rare and revealing father-and-son dialogue about faith, innovation, and legacy. Together they trace how a historic Black Baptist church learned to evolve—adding drums, livestreams, and online giving—without losing its sacred soul.

Jesse—known professionally as J. Melodic, an award-winning music producer whose work has been featured by Apple, Disney, the NBA, NFL, and more—brings his world of music, media, and creative strategy into the conversation, reflecting on how those experiences reshaped his view of ministry. From his start as a seven-year-old church drummer to creative director and CEO of MinistryForward Media Group, he shares how excellence, storytelling, and sound can all serve as modern evangelism.

Meanwhile, Dr. Mapson offers the pastoral and theological lens behind the journey, revealing what it takes to guide a congregation through change without compromising conviction. What began as cautious experimentation became a blueprint for digital discipleship and intergenerational partnership.

This conversation explores:

• How openness to change preserves the church’s soul rather than dilutes it
• Turning media and design into tools of ministry and mission
• Why inclusion, belonging, and excellence can coexist in worship
• Lessons for young leaders seeking genuine influence, not just visibility
• Building systems that meet today’s needs—from follow-up to food security

For pastors, PKs, and ministry teams learning to bridge reverence with reinvention, this dialogue offers both wisdom and warmth—a living example of what it means to rebuild the church while keeping its heart intact.

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This episode is proudly sponsored by Terry Funeral Home Inc.
For over 85 years, Terry Funeral Home has walked with families through life’s most sacred moments, offering care, dignity, and excellence when it matters most. Learn more at terryfuneralhome.com.

This episode is also supported by our Silver Partner, Palmer Theological Seminary.
Whole Gospel. Whole World. Whole Persons. Palmer equips leaders for transformative, justice-centered ministry through theological depth and holistic formation. Learn more at palmerseminary.edu.