Tag: Jesus

WNZR’s Meet the Staff Monday with Anna Boynton

Meet Anna Boynton, one of the newest voices you’ll hear on WNZR!

Click HERE to hear the full conversation between Anna and WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart!

Anna grew up in Grove City, but five years ago her family made the move to Mount Vernon. Coming to Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) felt like a natural step—her family are alumni, and she strongly felt that God was leading her here. Now, as a true freshman majoring in Communication: Digital Media (with some CCP experience already under her belt), she’s diving right in.

Interestingly, Anna wasn’t always sure about joining the station. She was a little skeptical at first—but that quickly changed. What started as uncertainty has turned into a truly enjoyable experience. She’s currently an on-air DJ and is also exploring other ways to get involved around campus as she finds her footing.

One of her favorite memories so far? Serving as a runner during Food for the Hungry. She loved getting to meet generous donors on Drive Day and seeing firsthand how the community comes together to make a difference. Those moments left a big impression on her.

When it comes to music, Anna’s top pick is for King & Country. She’s even seen them live in concert! Two of her favorite songs are Priceless and God Only Knows—both meaningful tracks that she keeps on repeat.

Outside the studio, Anna loves ice cream (especially Graeter’s Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip), spending time with friends, and working on photography. She enjoys heading out into nature to capture beautiful moments through her lens. Above all, she says her favorite people in the world are her parents, whose love and support mean everything to her.

Having moved several times—including living in Missouri—Anna reflects on how those transitions, along with homeschooling and CCP classes during high school, have shaped her. She feels that God has been teaching her patience and what it means to let Him take control. Her favorite Bible verse, John 14:27, reminds her daily to rest in God’s peace:

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27

You can catch Anna on air every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon!

Click HERE to learn more about WNZR!

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A New Beacon for Families: Inside Mount Vernon’s Salvation Army Learning Lighthouse

Captain Christine Moretz of The Salvation Army in Mount Vernon is excited to share news about a long-awaited project that’s finally becoming a reality — the brand-new Learning Lighthouse.

She spoke to WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart about what started back in 2017 as a vision to better serve the community and expand social services has now grown into a place designed to meet one of Mount Vernon’s biggest needs: quality childcare.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

The Learning Lighthouse reflects the same mission as The Salvation Army itself: “to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name, without discrimination, upholding the dignity of all people.” Simply put, this new space allows that mission to continue in a very practical way. The Lighthouse will provide a safe, nurturing environment for children from as young as six weeks old through 5th grade, offering both childcare and opportunities to learn about Christ.

Captain Moretz walked through the journey of bringing the Lighthouse to life, from early planning to construction and staffing. Ground was broken in 2024, and the building is now in its final stages, with just a few finishing touches left. The official opening will be Monday, January 26, with a dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for Sunday, January 18 at 2 p.m., followed immediately by a dedication service.

Once open, the Learning Lighthouse will serve up to 112 children, offering not only childcare but also meaningful programs that support families and help children grow in a loving, faith-centered environment. Captain Moretz shared how this project has shaped her personally, especially in learning more about childcare, trusting God fully, and depending on Him through every phase of the process.

She also spoke warmly about her team, expressing gratitude for their dedication and support. While challenges came along the way, she credits the strength of the team and her faith for helping her stay focused on doing good and not growing weary.

Thanks to incredible community support, $5.4 million has already been raised toward the project’s just-over-$6-million total cost. The team even came in under budget, though they are still working to raise the remaining $649,000 needed to fully complete the project. Captain Moretz continues to ask for prayers and community support as they move toward the finish line.

She extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has helped make the Learning Lighthouse possible and looks forward to thanking supporters in person during Sunday’s dedication ceremony. The community is warmly invited to attend and celebrate this milestone together.

Click HERE to stay connect on Facebook!

Click HERE to visit their website!

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Interchurch Social Services’ Director Talks Surging Need, Community Support, and Hope in Knox County

Interchurch Social Services Executive Director Carolyn Fergus recently sat down with WNZR’s Marcy Rinehart to talk about the growing need they’re seeing across Knox County.

Click HERE to hear the full interview!

Fergus, who has been with Interchurch for three and a half years and oversees all four branches, says the number of families asking for help has more than tripled since last year. So far in 2025, Interchurch has already provided more than 189,000 meals, a number she says shows just how challenging things have become for many local families.

Right now, Fergus says volunteers are their biggest need. Some days, the Mount Vernon pantry alone serves up to 50 families, which puts a huge strain on their team. Mount Vernon has seen the largest spike in need, but thankfully the other branches have been able to step in and support where they can.

Fergus also shared the story behind the two pop-up food distributions they held this fall. These events were created to help people who couldn’t get to their main locations but still needed immediate support.

Donations continue to be important, especially canned goods like beans, which always seem to run out quickly. Fergus pointed out that even small financial gifts go a long way—every $1 donated turns into about $4.56 worth of food through their partnerships.

Interchurch offers more than food, too. Fergus talked about the other services they provide, including rental and deposit assistance, help with utilities and prescriptions, gas vouchers, and more. She’s already looking ahead to 2026 and hopes they’ll be able to expand their storage space to meet the rising demand.

When asked how people can pray for them, Fergus mentioned rest for their volunteers, patience, and the ability to show Christ’s love to everyone who walks through their doors. She’s been connected with Food For The Hungry almost since its beginning and says she’s passionate about serving local missions.

Fergus ended the conversation with a story that gives a glimpse into the lives of the people Interchurch serves. She hopes more people will get involved, reminding listeners that everyone deserves a good meal—and to know that someone cares. She says Food For The Hungry’s slogan, “Working together to care for our neighbors,” perfectly captures why this work matters so much to her.

Click HERE to learn more about Interchurch Social Services!

Click HERE to learn more about Food For The Hungry!

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Mariya Tatarin talks to WNZR about Operation Christmas Child

Mariya Tatarin is from Ukraine and received a shoebox at the age of 10 and she talks about how she felt from this, the box had hygiene items, school supplies and toys.

Click HERE to hear the full conversation!

Mariya talks about her favorite toy when she got her shoebox growing up as well as some of her story when she grew up and the massive impact receiving the shoebox made on her life. She also talks about the book she received “the greatest story ever told” and she ended up gifting that book to her neighbors and it helped share the gospel to them.

Mariya shares more of her story and because of the shoebox, the kids around her saw that God knew who needed that shoebox and how people all over the world who do his work.

She talks about how she moved to America due to religious persecution and the how the process took a long time. Now she travels to Churches, schools and communities to share her story and get to be a real person to see the impact of Operation Christmas Child. Mariya shares how you can pray for the people of Ukraine struggling with the war, she says to pray for God to intervene and bring and end to the war.

Mariya shares a message for people packing shoeboxes, she’s very grateful and thankful for people taking their time to help pack shoeboxes; so many people who receive the shoeboxes have never even heard of the gospel and it makes a huge impact on the lives of kids. She says 11.5 million shoeboxes are packed each year and she talks about how important it is to see the people who sent the shoebox. She still keeps the picture of the family who packed the shoebox for her in her bible in hopes of meeting them.

She talks about why you should take the step to help support Operation Christmas Child and shares a message to people who haven’t ever packed one before. Its intimidating at first, but Mariya says to just start with the basics and you’ll start coming up with new things to put into your box. It makes an impact and it makes a difference.

Mariya Tatarin is sharing her story this Friday at 7pm at Gilead Friends Church, and she talks about how you can pray for her and how she wants God to speak through her to the people listening. Pray for Operation Christmas Child to have all their volunteer needs filled with people trying to share God’s love and good news.

Click HERE to learn about Operation Christmas Child.

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The Morning Thing has Information on How to Be Romantic for Valentine’s Day

On the Morning Thing Thursday, Marcy and Eric continued our discussion of alternative ways of being romantic. These are a little different and “think outside the box.”
• Obvious: Buy flowers. You typically can’t go wrong with red roses, but you should pick your partner’s favorite color if its available.
• Go on a long walk or a long drive.
• Write them a heartfelt letter
• Take them to do their favorite activity. It could be dancing, it could be karaoke, maybe skydiving (just kidding).
• Make them a playlist. This is the 21st century version of a mix tape (remember those?)
Click HERE for 100 Ways to be Romantic from Romantic Retreats. It Is an English site, but it does have some good ideas.

We also had some great ideas for fun valentine’s day activities for the kids.
• Love Jar: When you or the kids see an act of kindness or God’s love demonstrated, write it down and put it in a jar. At the end of the month, pull out the notes and talk about the memories over pizza.
• Written Notes for the Overlooked: Have the kids make valentines for special people in your life. Make sure to include those who may be overlooked like a widow or widower who are celebrating their first valentine’s day without their spouse.
• Show love to others: Play a simple game like love bingo. Write a characteristic of love into each block. Then explain the way God loves us and expects to treat them with dignity. The author of this comment went on to say that they bought a pizza and drink for a homeless person, and their daughter write, “God loves you!” on the box.


Also, don’t forget about the love of God and the fact he loves you unconditionally,
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 (NIV)
Click HERE for Practical Activities to Do with Kids for Valentines Day from Focus on the Family.com

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Are you feeling grateful today?

For some of us, it might be difficult to say yes to that question.
As we approach Thanksgiving next week, The Morning Thing is spending time to focus on gratitude.
Crosswalk.com has a list of 5 scriptures to help guide our gratitude this Thanksgiving.

Click HERE to read the full article.

From Crosswalk Author, Whitney Hopler

Thanksgiving invites you to reflect on God’s goodness and give thanks for the blessings in your life. It’s more than just a holiday; it’s a spiritual discipline to give thanks. The Bible repeatedly encourages you to give thanks – not only when in good circumstances, but in all situations. Practicing gratitude is a powerful act of faith, reminding you that God is present, faithful, and good. Here are 5 scriptures from the Bible to guide your Thanksgiving gratitude. They can inspire you to give thanks not just on Thanksgiving, but on every day that God gives you to enjoy.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Colossians 3:17

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17

Philippians 4:6-7

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:6-7

James 1:17

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” – James 1:17

Hebrews 12:28

“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” – Hebrews 12:28

Click HERE to read Whitney’s valuable insight on each bible verse.

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What Holds You Back From Spiritual Discipline?

Spiritual disciplines like prayer, reading your Bible, fasting, and supporting and going to church are great ways to further your relationship with Jesus. Unfortunately, many things may get in the way of practicing them regularly. Understanding what those barriers are in your life can help you knock them down and improve your walk with Christ.

Click HERE for the top 10 reasons you struggle with spiritual disciplines on ibelieve.com

If you’re looking for a great church around Mount Vernon, click HERE to check out our Church Listings page on wnzr.fm

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Keeping Christ in Christmas

Today we shared some ways to keep Christ at the center of your Christmas. We should always remember the reason we celebrate to begin with. Thanks to iMOM and FamilyLife for their wonderful articles.

Here are some ways that we loved!

  • Having a child friendly nativity scene
  • Share how God has made an impact in your life
  • Read the real Christmas story
  • Give only three gifts

Click HERE to read more from imom and HERE for more from familylife!

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Everyone Struggles with Temptation

It may not be an easy thing to talk about, but temptation is all around us. Whether its overeating, overspending, or lying we all struggle. It is easier to avoid temptation all together than having to resist it in the moment. Thanks to allprodad.com we talked about 4 Ways to Avoid Temptation.

  1. Focus on knowing yourself
  2. Focus on staying busy
  3. Focus on being in community
  4. Focus on your family

To read the full article click HERE.

We also shared the biblical side of temptation with theholymess.com We shared 21 Powerful Bible Verses about Temptation. Here are some of our favorites…

  • “No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.” -1 Corinthians 10:13
  • “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” – James 1:12
  • “Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” – Ephesians 6:13

To read all 21 verses click right HERE.

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Stress Awareness Day

We all get stressed every now and then but most of the time it’s because we are not focusing on what is important, Jesus. When we focus on Jesus our stress won’t magically go away but we can remember that we don’t have to go through it alone. This morning we talked about “Seven Ways to Keep Your Focus on Jesus” from All Things Life. To read the full article click HERE.

Here are some of the ways we talked about…

  • Set aside alone time with Him each day.
  • Worship Music
  • Post It Notes
  • Add Scriptures to Your Phone

We also talked about 20 Calming Bible Verses for Worry, Stress, and Anxiety. This article is from Homemade Lovely. To read all 20 verses click right HERE.

Here are a couple of verses we shared this morning…

  • Psalm 16:8 “I have set the Lord always before me. Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.”
  • Psalm 23:4  “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
  • Psalm 46:10  “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations,  I will be exalted in the earth!”

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