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Chuck Knows Church

2013 | A fun and informative series about stuff in church.

Chuck Knows Church is all about the objects, symbols and terms we often hear in church. Take a couple of minutes each week and have some fun while you learn from Chuck. There are more than 100 episodes available on a variety of topics.

Speakers: Josh Childs

Topics: Church Humor United Methodist Church

Source: Discipleship Ministries

Season 1

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Liturgical Colors

Ever walk in to your Sunday morning worship service and realize the colors have changed around the sanctuary?

Josh Childs | 25 views | 5 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Clergy Fashion

Have a chuckle and learn with Chuck when he explains the differences between a robe and an alb — even if your pastor wears neither! Ever wonder why one is whi...

Josh Childs | 12 views | 4 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: Sign of The Fish

Ever wonder why the symbol of a fish is inside many church sanctuaries? Smile and learn with Chuck as he explains the meaning and history of the fish symbol in ...

Josh Childs | 19 views | 4 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Pulpit vs. Lectern

Ever wonder why there are two podiums inside many church sanctuaries? Smile and learn with Chuck as he explains the pulpit and the lectern!

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: Advent Wreath

Four candles in a circle with a big one in the middle? Yep, take a moment and learn the basics about the advent wreath. Chuck introduces you to what those candl...

Josh Childs | 34 views | 4 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: The Hymnal

"Turn in your hymnal to page...." Heard that before in church? Chuck digs into the book usually within an arm's length each Sunday. And he starts it all off wit...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Offering Plate

Do you know the history of taking up an offering? Didn't think so. Chuck gives you the facts and a few blunders. Stay tuned to the very end for a surprise.

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: The Narthex

When's the last time you heard, "meet me in the narthex?" Then you say, "uhhh, what?" You’ll know all about it when you click play and Chuck gives you the ski...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: Sacristy

It's probably the most unknown room in the church...and it also has a secret name! Chuck lets you peek inside where it can smell like flowers and candles. You'l...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Clerical Collar

Does your pastor wear one? Where does this ecclesiastical garment come from?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: The Organ

Got pipes at your church? How 'bout an electric organ? No? What about a praise band? No matter, the organ has a rich tradition in the Christian Church? And Chuc...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Baptismal Font

Next time you’re in church, see if you can spot the baptismal font. Know anything about it, other than there’s water in there?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: The Cross

Why the cross rather than the fish for the accepted Christian symbol? Do you know? And why are there two types of crosses: one in catholic churches and another ...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: Lent

Ever heard, "I'm giving up sweets for Lent"? Why does Lent make people want to give up something? And how do you calculate the 40 days of Lent?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E15: Chuck Knows Church: Shrove Tuesday

Ever wonder why there's almost always a pancake breakfast at church some time before Easter?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E16: Chuck Knows Church: Ash Wednesday

Ever seen a little smudge mark on someone’s forehead as they walk out of church? That’s a sign of the cross and it means it's Ash Wednesday during Lent.

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E17: Chuck Knows Church: Candles

Some may think churches are a little obsessed with candles. Why so many? Why have them at all?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E18: Chuck Knows Church: Lord's Prayer

It's the most common prayer spoken in church each Sunday. But where does it come from? And what does it mean?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E19: Chuck Knows Church: Lay Minister

Around church you may be familiar with the term “laity” or “lay member,” but what about a “Lay Minister”? What’s that all about? Chuck tells all! ...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

Season 2

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Paschal Candles

Where you worship is there a big tall strapping candle in the chancel area, taller than the rest? What’s the story behind that candle, and why is it special d...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Easter and Lilies

Does your church fill up its chancel area with lillies on Easter? And what do lillies and Easter have in common?

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: Stained Glass

Does your church have some? Ever wondered why stained glass is found almost exclusively in places of worship?

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Communion

The first of a two-part series about communion. Always good to know the basics about the first of two sacraments, right?

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: Book of Common Prayer

If you're Episcopalian, you likely know all about this book. However, if you're United Methodist, you may have never even heard of it.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: The Bread and the Cup

The second of a two-part series about communion. Always good to know the basics about the first of two sacraments, right? Chuck explains what the bread and cup ...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Usher

Do you sit in the same seat each Sunday? If so, why do you need an usher? What's their role? Chuck loses his cool while explaining the role of an usher.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: Pentecost

Seen any symbols of fire around your sanctuary? Do you know what's the second most important day of the Christian year? Chuck messes with candles again and expl...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: Collect

No, we're not talking about collecting food or clothing, but something completely different. Chuck clears up his own confusion and tells us about the collect pr...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Steeple

Ever done this with your fingers as a child: "Here's the church and here's the steeple." Then you spread your palms apart and wiggle your fingers while saying: ...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: I-H-S

Seen the letters "IHS" around your sanctuary? Ever wondered what they mean? Chuck hunts down the answers...and delivers a few chuckles along the way.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Doxology

Chuck sings! Kinda. Bet you can't guess the name of the most played piece of music in Protestant churches each Sunday? You looked at the title of this episode, ...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: Affirmation of Faith

Ever try to summarize what you believe? It's hard! That's what an "Affirmation of Faith" tries to do for us. Chuck explains and sings (yet again).

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: Acolyte

Do you know what the word means? And what's with carrying the light out at the end of each worship service? Chuckle along with Chuck as he talks about "Acolytes...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E15: Chuck Knows Church: Amen

You may say it every day, but do you even know what it means? And, for those United Methodists old enough to remember, why is it not at the end of hymns any lon...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E16: Chuck Knows Church: Worship

Chuck gets a workout during this episode! Sweatpants and sweatbands are on -- and there's a good reason why. You'll find out as you chuckle and learn with with ...

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E17: Chuck Knows Church: Liturgist

Chuck goes to "work" on this episode. He explains the important role of this worship leader.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E18: Chuck Knows Church: Benediction

Chuck begins with his "almighty" benediction, but then gets serious about the meaning behind this final worship act.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

Season 3

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Licensed Local Pastors

When does a pastor need a license? And why? Chuck talks again with some of his fellow "Chucks" as he explains this week's episode!

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Chrismon Tree

Chrismon Tree. Does your church have one in the sanctuary at Christmas time? If so, what do those symbols mean on the tree? Watch to the very end for a special ...

Josh Childs | 29 views | 5 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: The Bible

The Bible. It's one collection of 66 books and is considered a sacred text for both Christians and Jews. And Chuck is going to explain what it is in just 4 minu...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Confirmation

Did you attend Confirmation classes when you were young? And do you know why we confirm young people in the church? Chuck tries to confirm his reservation as he...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: John Wesley

John Wesley: the founder, along with his brother Charles, of the Methodist movement. He challenged the Anglican church, cared for the poor, and connected faith ...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: Lectionary

"Today's reading is from the Old Testament..." Ever heard that said in church? Did you know there is a calendar of readings? Yep, and Chuck will tell you all ab...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Palm Sunday

Have you ever waved a palm branch in a worship service? If so, do you know why? Chuckle along and learn about Palm Sunday with Chuck.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: Baptism

What is the meaning of the sacrament of baptism? What's best: sprinkled, dunked or poured? Chuck will explain a little about this important ancient act and perh...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: Sunday School

What's the meaning and history of Sunday School? Ever wondered? Is it no longer relevant in today's culture? Chuck walks off the set in disgust before he even t...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Handbells

Ever seen a handbell choir? Ever wondered about their history and place in the church? Well, you're in for a treat as Chuck explains about handbells.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: Sermons

A sermon is an oration by a pastor, right? But there's so much more to learn! Chuck explains a little deeper and makes you grin at the same time.

Josh Childs | 6 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Bishops

In The United Methodist Church bishops are administrative and spiritual leaders. But how much do you know about the office of bishop? Chuck will tell you the ba...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: District Superintendent

In the United Methodist Church a district superintendent plays a key role in the mission of the church. Have Chuck teach you a few facts about what most insider...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: Itenerancy

That's a funny church word! You may know it has something to do with your pastor being appointed to a church. But, there's so much more to know, and Chuck will ...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E15: Chuck Knows Church: Potlock

Potluck meals are events where the attendees bring a dish to a meal. But why are they so popular in churches? Chuck tells all and steals the cake too!

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E16: Chuck Knows Church: New Testament

It's the second half of the bestselling book the world has ever known. But this episode will test your knowledge about the 27 books in the New Testament.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E17: Chuck Knows Church: Blue Christmas

For some of us Christmas can be a time of stress and anxiety. Joy and cheer sometimes are overwhelmed by sadness. Chuck talks about "Blue Christmas" and what we...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E18: Chuck Knows Church: Nativity

Okay, 3 wise men, some cows, donkeys, and a few angels were all with baby Jesus at his birth, right? Think again!

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E19: Chuck Knows Church: Wise Men

A distinguished group of wise men who brought gifts to the baby Jesus. Is that all you know? Stretch your knowledge and smile a little with Chuck as he explains...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E20: Chuck Knows Church: Epiphany

One of the least understood Christian days of the year. Chuck provides some insight while having an epiphany of his own.

Josh Childs | 20 views | 5 months ago updated

Season 4

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Apportionments

In the United Methodist Church your gifts to your congregation impacts not only your local church's ministries, but mission and ministry around the world.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Bible Translations

What's your favorite Bible translation? And why are there so many translations available? Chuck introduces you to the subject with a smile!

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: Disciples

What's your definition of "disciples"? Can you name all 12? Were there are any more than 12? These questions and more will be answered by Chuck!

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Parables

A parable is a succinct, didactic story which illustrates one or more instructive lessons or principles. But what does that mean? And why did Jesus use parables...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: Annual Conference

An Annual Conference a regional body that governs much of the life of the "Connectional Church." Sound confusing? We agree. Chuck will try to make sense of "Ann...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: Foot Washing

As recorded in John's gospel, on his last night before his betrayal and arrest, Jesus washed the feet of his disciples and then gave them a new commandment to l...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Transfiguration Sunday

The Transfiguration of Jesus is an event reported by the Synoptic Gospels in which Jesus is transfigured upon a mountain. Why is this event lifted up and celebr...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: Grace

The word seems to have multiple meanings. It's said at the dinner table, yet also has deep theological meaning for United Methodists. Chuck takes a few minutes ...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: Pharisees and Sadducees

Jesus dealt with both Pharisees and Sadducees during his life. And both of these groups were part of Judean society. Have you ever wondered which one is which?

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Passing of the Peace

Some call it a time of greeting, but Passing of the Peace is much more than a handshake and a smile.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: Passover

One of the least understood Jewish festivals is Passover. Understanding Passover is critical for all Christians.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Maundy Thursday

It's also known as Holy Thursday, Covenant Thursday, Great and Holy Thursday, Sheer Thursday and Thursday of Mysteries! Whew. . .but what exactly is this import...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: Good Friday

Good Friday. It's also known as Holy Friday, Great Friday, Black Friday or Easter Friday. We all know the terrible events of this day, but why is it called "goo...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: UMC Logo

The cross and flame logo of The United Methodist Church is a mark known the world over. But what is the meaning and history of this interesting logo?

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E15: Chuck Knows Church: Crossing the Red Sea

You may know that "Crossing the Red Sea" is a passage in the Bible describing the escape of the Israelites, led by Moses, from the pursuing Egyptians. But is th...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E16: Chuck Knows Church: Tower of Babel

The story of the city of Babel is recorded in Genesis 11:1-9. We hear about this story from time to time, but what do we really know about this strange Biblical...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E17: Chuck Knows Church: Confirmation (Part 2)

In Christianity, confirmation is seen as the sealing of the covenant made in Holy Baptism. On this second part of a two-part episode, Chuck gives his own testim...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E18: Chuck Knows Church: Apocrypha

The Apocrypha consists of a set of books written between approximately 400 B.C. and the time of Christ but are not included in the Bible. Confused? You're likel...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E19: Chuck Knows Church: Ten Commandments

I bet you can name the ten commandments right? No? How about where they are located in the old testament? No? Well, let Chuck explain about the ten commandments...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E20: Chuck Knows Church: Psalms

The Psalms are right in the middle of your Bible. You could think of the Psalms as the hymnbook of sacred scripture. But, is that all you know?

Josh Childs | 11 views | 5 months ago updated

Season 5

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Protestant Reformation

The Protestant Reformation was the schism within Western Christianity initiated by Martin Luther, John Calvin, and others.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Wesleyan Quadrilateral

Wesleyan Quadrilateral. It's the basis of much of John Wesley's theology, but have you ever heard of it? Can you even spell it? Find out about this important fo...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: King Nebuchadnezzar

The name kinda sounds like someone is sneezing! He was king of the Neo-Babylonian Empire, who reigned c. 605 BC -- 562. And we are guessing that for many that's...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Great Commission

It's the instruction of the resurrected Jesus Christ to his disciples to spread the Good News. Do you know what occurred during his instruction? Why is it impor...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: Lay Servant

Does your church have one? Do you know what one is? How does someone become a Lay Servant?

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: Funeral Pall

A pall is a cloth which covers a casket or coffin at funerals. But, what's its significance during the liturgy? And why is called a "pall"?

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Piety and Mercy

Do you know these terms? Works of Piety, in Methodism, are certain spiritual disciplines that, along with the Works of Mercy, serve as a means of grace.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: The Upper Room

It's the place where Jesus had his last meal with his disciples, but it's also the world's most widely read daily devotional guide.

Josh Childs | 12 views | 5 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: World Communion Sunday

It's a special worship service observed by several Christian denominations, taking place on the first Sunday of every October. But, what exactly are we celebrat...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Laity Sunday

Laity Sunday focuses on the celebration of the ministry of all lay Christians. But, there's so much more to know and Chuck is eager to tell you.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: Ecumenical Sunday

Ecumenical Sunday. This day gives Christians an annual opportunity to continue their quest for the unity they already share in Christ. But, do you even know wha...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Holy Week

Holy Week is the last week of Lent, the week immediately preceding Easter. It is observed in many Christian churches as a time to commemorate and enact the suff...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: One Great Hour of Sharing

Observed on the Fourth Sunday in Lent, this day calls the Church to share the goodness of life with those who hurt. In the United Methodist Church, offerings co...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May since 1952, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation.

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E15: Chuck Knows Church: Ascension Sunday

"When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight (Acts 1:9)".

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E16: Chuck Knows Church: Heritage Sunday

This set aside day calls The United Methodist Church to honor its heritage by committing itself to the continuing call of God known and spread by Charles and Jo...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E17: Chuck Knows Church: Ark of the Covenant

It was a chest described in the Book of Exodus containing the Tablets of Stone on which the Ten Commandments were inscribed. It was also the basis of a famous m...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E18: Chuck Knows Church: Dead Sea Scrolls

The Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered in a series of eleven caves around the site known as Wadi Qumran near the Dead Sea in the West Bank (of the Jordan River) b...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E19: Chuck Knows Church: Elijah vs Elisha

Elijah and Elisha are two of the most well-known prophets of Israel. They both served in the northern kingdom of Israel. But what's the difference between the t...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

E20: Chuck Knows Church: From Saul to Paul

The Conversion of Saul the Persecutor, was, according to the New Testament, an event that led him to cease persecuting early Christians. Then how did he come to...

Josh Childs | 5 months ago updated

Season 6

E1: Chuck Knows Church: Jesus the Carpenter

Jesus' earthly father Joseph was a carpenter (Matthew 13:55 & Mark 6:3). The Greek word is Teckton which means builder. Is that all we know about Jesus' work be...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E2: Chuck Knows Church: Jonah and the Whale

Is all we know about Jonah was that he was swallowed by a whale? What's the significance of the story? Chuck draws it out for us!

Josh Childs | 13 views | 4 months ago updated

E3: Chuck Knows Church: Fasting

It's talked about in the book of Isaiah, chapter 58:6–7. And we bet you know it has something to do with Jesus being tempted in the desert. Is that all you kn...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E4: Chuck Knows Church: Blessing

What does it mean to give someone a blessing?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E5: Chuck Knows Church: Burning Bush

God speaks to Moses through a bush that's burning... but not burning. So what does Moses do?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E6: Chuck Knows Church: Confession of Sins

What exactly, is sin, and why is it so important that we confess our sins?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E7: Chuck Knows Church: Lamb of God

Lamb of God. It's a title for Jesus that appears in the Gospel of John. Is that all you know? And how does it tie into the Old Testament?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E8: Chuck Knows Church: Repentance

What, exactly is repentance, and why are we asked to repent for our sin?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E9: Chuck Knows Church: Sabbath

What is the meaning of "keeping the Sabbath? Is it merely a day of religious observance and abstinence from work?

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E10: Chuck Knows Church: Torah

Where did the Torah come from and why is it important to us? Chuck explains its history and meaning in this, his 110th episode!

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E11: Chuck Knows Church: Define Church

We all know what the word "church" means, right? Well, not so fast! Chuck explores all the meanings of this powerful word.

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E12: Chuck Knows Church: Tree of Knowledge

Knowledge of good and evil was a tempting test for Adam. Chuck unpacks the significance of the enticing Tree of Knowledge (and is tempted himself by Branson Mis...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E13: Chuck Knows Church: Why Church on Sunday?

Going to church on Sunday - we take it for granted. But church on Sunday has not always been so straightforward. Chuck sets us straight.

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated

E14: Chuck Knows Church: Yahweh

The many names we call God reveal a rich history -- and even includes a burning bush. Chuck explores the origins of this most important word in his 114th episod...

Josh Childs | 4 months ago updated