Volume 1 Issue 2, December 2025
Pastor Joe's Corner
CAYA Ministry Expands Global Reach,
Uniting Believers Across Six Continents
What started as a heartfelt local vision to encourage the body of Christ is now blossoming into a powerful global ministry. CAYA (Come As You Are) Fellowship has witnessed God move in truly amazing ways, connecting believers from its hometown to the far reaches of the world, all through faith and modern media.
"God knew what was going to happen way before we did," shared a CAYA representative. "We started with just a phone and a Facebook page, and now we are reaching thousands daily.
"The ministry's commitment to spreading encouragement has led to remarkable growth. CAYA now operates three radio stations, with the popular Outlaw Christian Country station, KTFR, boasting a significant and dedicated listenership in the UK. Adding to this incredible media outreach, CAYA is launching a dedicated TV station that will be accessible worldwide via platforms like ROKU, Fire Stick, and the ministry’s website. This new platform will multiply CAYA's ability to deliver uplifting content and share stories of faith on a truly global scale.
While the joy of reaching the local community remains paramount—a path marked by both heartbreaking and rejoicing moments—the recent expansion of CAYA's physical and digital reach is a testament to their mission. The monthly CAYA newsletter has become an unexpected blessing, creating a tangible network that now extends across 15 U.S. states and internationally to Canada, Kuwait, Ireland, and recently, Uganda!
In a time when Christian family members around the world are facing increasing challenges and even persecution, CAYA's focus is on solidarity and prayer. Their primary mission is to do their absolute best to encourage the body of Christ and to foster a spirit of constant, mutual prayer among believers, regardless of where they live.
CAYA invites everyone to join this growing global family. To receive the uplifting daily email devotional or the monthly email newsletter and become part of this incredible, expanding network.
Join CAYA in prayer as they continue to spread light, hope, and encouragement to every corner of the globe.
The Gift of Jesus
by Brandi Schweidenback
As December arrives, our hearts turn toward the celebration of the greatest gift ever given—Jesus Christ. In a season filled with lights, music, and gatherings, it is easy to get caught up in the busyness. But at the center of it all is the quiet, powerful truth: “For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given” (Isaiah 9:6).
The True Gift of Christmas
Christmas is not about what we find under the tree, but about the One who hung on the tree for us. Jesus came into the world as a humble baby, yet He brought salvation, hope, and eternal life. His birth reminds us that God’s love is not distant—it is personal, present, and available to each of us.
The Importance of the Church
The church is where we gather to celebrate this gift together. In worship, we lift our voices in praise. In fellowship, we encourage one another. In service, we extend Christ’s love to the world. December is a beautiful time to come together as the body of Christ, to remember that we are not alone in our faith journey. When we come to church, we are reminded of the bigger story we belong to—the
story of God’s redeeming love. Each sermon, each song, each prayer draws us closer to Jesus and to one another.
Living Out the Message
This month, let us not only celebrate Jesus with words, but also with actions. Share kindness with those who are hurting. Give generously to those in need. Invite someone to church who may not know the joy of Christ. Take time to reflect on God’s blessings and offer Him your gratitude.
December Devotional: Light in the Darkness
“And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not": John 1:5
Reflection
December brings long nights and early sunsets, but it also brings the glow of Christmas lights that brighten our homes and streets. In the same way, Jesus came as the Light of the World to shine into the darkness of sin, fear, and despair. No matter how heavy the world feels, His light cannot be overcome. When we welcome Jesus into our hearts, His light fills us and shines through us. We become reflections of His love, bringing hope to the hopeless, peace to the weary, and joy to the brokenhearted.
Application
Each time you see Christmas lights this month, pause and thank Jesus for being your Light. Ask God to show you one person you can encourage or serve this week. Carry His light into your workplace, your family gatherings, and your community.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for being the Light that no darkness can overcome. Help me to carry Your light into every place I go this December. May my words and actions reflect Your love, and may others see You through me. Amen.
CAYA RECOVERY
by Bradley Sansoucie
You are welcome at CAYA Recovery meetings. Caya Recovery meets every Monday at 6pm at the CAYA Fellowship building: 15960 US HWY 160 Forsyth, MO 65653.
Addiction is one of the most common spiritual maladies in our country and it has steadily gotten worse. Addiction has or is affecting a majority of houses and families in some way shape or form with negative effects, but yet is so steered away from, but why? Why do we choose to let such a real problem get brushed under the table?
In my opinion, we often hide from things we don't understand, things outside of our power to control or to change. It's often easier to accept defeat, than go to the lengths necessary to overcome an obstacle. Personally I cannot say that I have met an addict whose goal in life was to be one.
It's my goal to help bring light and understanding to those who God would have me reach. I want people to know there is a solution!! Millions of people worldwide have combated and overcome addiction worldwide using one simple solution, one that has been far more effective and life changing than any medicine on the market. That solution is God.
We find, in recovery, the beautiful restorative healing power of God, who is very much active and willing to help, if you have the faith to come to Him. The Twelve Steps are a common solution. When done correctly, they offer a solution to addiction based solely off of spiritual principles. I personally used to laugh at them, until I reached my turning point of being broken enough that I was willing to try anything. I've been sober for 2 years, 4 months, and six days as of the writing of this article.
I have seen people delivered in an instant, I have seen people who have had to work harder in some cases, but people are being delivered. I have seen people who know a lot about Jesus be delivered, and I've seen Jesus heal people who did not even know Him yet! What an amazing God I serve! My life has been filled with walking with God, and getting to watch people overcome a seemingly hopeless state, to a fully recovered state of mind and spirit!! What a blessing life is. If you are struggling, it's okay. It's okay to ask for help. It's okay if you have made mistakes, and it's okay if you don't know what to do. It's a choice, to do nothing about it! Reach out, find a twelve step meeting, and learn about addiction and ways to overcome it! Remember, you are loved!
Letters to the Editor
Interact with us! Would you like to comment on one of our articles? Would you like to submit an article yourself? Send your comments, article, or input to soundandspiriteditor@usa.com
We will review your submission and possibly include it in a future edition of Sound and Spirit.
Editorial Opinion
by Nicodemus Seiber
Recently, I read a post about two students whose school board denied them permission to start a Fellowship of Christian Athletes chapter at their school in Smith County Tennessee.
I was outraged. These children have the same rights guaranteed in the Bill of Rights that I do! I once signed my life away to Uncle Sam to defend those rights. My mind raced, thinking about what I could do to stand up for these kids.
Then, I did some research and began to understand why this action was taken. In November of 2019, the Smith County Board of Education was sued by the American Civil Liberties Union for promoting Christianity.
https://smithcountyinsider.com/home-page-featured/settlement-reached-in-aclu-school-board-lawsuit/
The Smith County Board of Education is scared. There are many prohibitions detailed in the 2020 settlement of the lawsuit. Running afoul of the agreed upon settlement could result in severe penalties. However, in their fear, they may have violated the rights of the two students whose applications were denied.
The First Liberty Institute has taken up the cause of these students.
Then, I did some research and began to understand why this action was taken. In November of 2019, the Smith County Board of Education was sued by the American Civil Liberties Union for promoting Christianity.
https://smithcountyinsider.com/home-page-featured/settlement-reached-in-aclu-school-board-lawsuit/
The Smith County Board of Education is scared. There are many prohibitions detailed in the 2020 settlement of the lawsuit. Running afoul of the agreed upon settlement could result in severe penalties. However, in their fear, they may have violated the rights of the two students whose applications were denied.
The First Liberty Institute has taken up the cause of these students.
Precedent is clear in this situation:
- Tinker v. Des Moines (1969):Established that students do not "shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate".
- Westside Community Schools v. Mergens (1990): The Supreme Court upheld the Equal Access Act, which requires public secondary schools that receive federal funds to provide equal access to extracurricular clubs, including student-initiated religious groups, during non-instructional time.
- Equal Access Act (1984) - Prohibits federally-funded public secondary schools which allow non-school-sponsored groups of students to meet from discriminating against any meeting of students on the basis of religious content if: (1) the meeting is voluntary and student initiated; (2) there is no government sponsorship; and (3) no unlawful activity is permitted.
To the Smith County Board of Education, I offer the following scriptures:
(Ephesians 6:12) We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
(Isaiah 41:10) Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness"
To the American Civil Liberties Union I say, if you will not stand for the rights of ALL the oppressed, you are standing for no one at all.
Opinions expressed in this editorial are the authors and do not necessarily reflect those of CAYA Fellowship.
First Lady's Funnies
selected by Stada Inman
Join us as we listen to some of the best Christian Music From the 70's 80's and 90's. Be a part of our show by requesting your favorites from that time period.
Our Lunchbox block is a great place to spend your lunch break as we enjoy some casual banter, interesting articles, intriguing recipes, and encouragement with our daily Powerverse! All that and much more awaits you when you tune in to the KMTM Lunchbox Block With Brando and Joel! Can't wait to see you there!
Album of the Month
by Intern Brando
“Show No Mercy” Is Bride’s Debut Album Released in 1986 Published By Pure Metal Records. Back when Bride was still known as “Matrix” they opened for Daniel Band and in the crowd were some of the executives for the “Refuge Music” Group which were impressed by their act after “Matrix” sold all the Demo tapes they brought. Six Months later they signed to “Pure Metal Records” which was made by Refuge Records specifically for Bride. With a budget of $2500 they set out to make their first album starting in October 1985, which was rushed because they misunderstood the deadline affecting the quality of the Album.
“Show No Mercy" opens with one of the Favorites on our Station “Evil That Men Do”. This one keeps the energy all throughout the song using a simple catchy chorus and the title as a hook. The song opens up with the lines “I need no one to show me, The way that I should live my life, I have no fears, I have no regrets, I have no need to apologize” this opening line is a statement to be set apart from the rest of society and the rest of the song follows suit “Don’t use me for, Evil, Evil that men do” it isn't just a call to attention it’s a prayer of deliverance. Dale Thompson’s voice is used to full effect the entirety of this album. His high pitched Glam Metal Screams hit the mark in this song especially.
“Now he is Gone” came out before, but it heavily reminds me of “All Hallows Eve” (Bride “Silence is Madness” [89]). It is just slower in the chorus. This song is where the more cryptic lyrics start. Without context, I don’t think I would know this is a Jesus song. With what my brain can piece together, it’s about those left after the crucifixion of Christ, those who inherit the spark and those who turn away.
“Fly Away” this one starts slower than the rest but picks up soon. This song is also about how Bride declares to set itself apart while admitting “Life will take its toll” and then follows with “I’ll get it with or without pain and strife, He suffered once, I will too,”. The composition feels like it gets somewhat sloppy in certain songs on this album but the guitar led by Troy Thompson and Steve Osborne does not let us down.
"Forever in Darkness” is about the rapture particularly the fate of the unbelievers during it with the chilling chorus “Forever in darkness away from rain, Forever in darkness to wear the chains” especially chilling when Dale repeats the line as the song fades out. The tempo of this song is surprisingly upbeat for the message; it isn't until the end of the song that the beat follows the theme.
The title track “Show No Mercy” is a battle cry about drawing strength from Jesus to win the fight, acknowledging spiritual warfare showing no mercy to sin. The layout of this song is definitely befitting of an anthem, with the slow buildup at the start, the unwavering attitude, and the rest of the band joining the chorus.
“Thunder in the City” is another declaration of faith that starts with a slow buildup featuring some piano, before eventually exploding as the beat kicks in accompanied by several computer effects.
“No Matter the Price” is probably my favorite song on the album. It starts with computer effects leading into triumphant guitar and Dale’s high pitch vocal.
This song has it all: guitar, unique vocals, and the message that I look for in Christian music. It is another battle cry, this time stating what is at risk if we don’t stand for Christ.
“The First Will Be Last” is the final track on the album as the title says this song is about how God will flip the expectations of the world come end times as God's people will be glorified while the world shall crumble. One last time in the album the beat starts slower till we reach a halfway point where it slows down for some dialog then eventually kicks up again.
Overall This album has multiple memorable tracks for me my favorites being “No Matter the Price” and “Evil That Men Do” the message and composition get somewhat sloppy and inconsistent multiple times in this album but for thinking they had a month to complete it it’s still pretty good. The message of the album, while cryptic at times, is very consistent, a declaration that they will follow Christ and warning others of damnation.
The Sounds and Smells of Christmas
by Joel Shell
What do you think of when you hear the word, "Christmas?" I think of the different sounds and smells of the holiday season. Even the air outside has a different feel to it during the month of December. The best way I can describe it is a general feeling of joy and happiness. Everyone seems just a little kinder, even amidst the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.
Some of my favorite Christmas memories have to do with different sounds and smells of the season.
Every year when I was a kid, my family and I would have two Christmas celebrations: one at my dad's parents' home and one at the home of my mom's parents. I can vividly remember the smell of my Grandmother's chocolate pie when she'd get it out of the oven and how delicious it would taste. I remember my Grandad asking the blessing before everyone would eat and how he would thank God for the reason for the Christmas holiday, the birth of Christ in the manger in Bethlehem. After eating, we would all go into the den and exchange gifts. My Grandad would put a bow from one of the presents on his head and everyone would laugh.
When we would eat at my mom's parents home, my Nana's turkey and dressing were always very delicious. As soon as I walked through the door, the smell of food cooking would fill the room. We would eat and exchange gifts and visit together.
Some of my other favorite Christmas memories involved Christmas songs. I always enjoyed listening to Do You Hear What I Hear by Third Day
and Mercy Me's rendition of Silent Night. Another favorite Christmas song was Away in a Manger. We would sing it at church during Christmas cantatas every year.
Everything about Christmas gives me a feeling of joy and happiness, but the best thing I love about Christmas is the reason for it. Christ was born in a manger in Bethlehem.
That is more important than food and gifts. In fact, it is the greatest Christmas gift of all.
‘Morning Horizon Show’ Rings in the Season
with Holiday Music and Historical Tribute
by Dennon White
The holiday season has officially arrived on KMTM’s "Morning Horizon Show with Dennon & Joe." A special December lineup will be dedicated to festive cheer, community positivity, and historical remembrance.
Throughout the month, the popular morning duo will be shifting their format to feature an all-Christmas music playlist. While the soundtrack may be changing, we assure you that The Morning Horizon Show will still be contagious with laughter and "good news."
A highlight of the month’s programming is scheduled for December 8, when the show will present a Pearl Harbor Remembrance Special. This unique broadcast aims to transport listeners back in time, blending the nostalgia of Golden Age holiday classics with a respectful discussion regarding the history of World War II.
The "Morning Horizon Show with Dennon & Joe" airs Monday through Friday
from 7:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. CST on KMTM.
Reaching the World from Forsyth, Mo
From the Desk of Cup of Joe
One of the things I love most about KTFR—other than listening to music that blends a powerful Gospel message with that classic Country sound—is the community we are building.
I truly enjoy being on-air and playing songs from such amazing artists, but in the quiet
moments off-air, I love to pull up the analytics and just "nerd out" on the numbers! There
is something incredible about seeing new states tune in and watching the listenership grow. It confirms that the music and the preaching are touching lives.
Small Town, Global Impact
It thrills my heart to know that from our small town of Forsyth, Missouri, we are partnering with artists and preachers to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ across the globe. This is truly what the Body of Christ is all about.
Just the other day, a listener from Wisconsin shared how our programming has encouraged her and how God uses this station to uplift her spirit. To every artist, preacher, podcaster, prayer warrior, and supporter who gives of their finances and time: Thank you.
!Thank you for sharing your heart and your love.
Together, we are reaching the world and encouraging it. We are spreading the Gospel, one country at a time, one soul at a time.
Top 5 Listener Countries (October 2025)
#1 United States
#2 France
#3 Canada
#4 Australia
#5 Brazil
Rockin For The Rock
Playing The Classics from The 1970's Thru The 1990's, And features Interviews with Special Guest, You can also send your Request To Mark@RockinForTheRock.com , Mark Has Toured all over The Country Thru The Years with Several Christian Artist and also Speaks about Abuse and still Tours Whenever there is an opportunity.
The Show Streams Live on Tik Tok where we all share stories and have a good time where we all are Family and you don't want the night to end, You Can Also Hear Audio on Facebook, X, Live 365 & Twitch. Search MTM Broadcasting on all Platforms, Rockin For The Rock you Hear less talk and More Music from 7pm to 9pm cst.
BIG NEWS! CAYA joins MTM
+ New TV Apps Launched!
We here at CAYA are thrilled to announce that we are joining forces with MTM! This
exciting partnership expands our media presence significantly, allowing us to reach
more people than ever before.
What does this mean for you? We are combining our resources to bring you:
🎙️ 3 Radio Stations
📖 A Daily Devotional
📰 A Monthly Newsletter
📺 NEW TV Apps: You can now find us on Roku and Fire Stick!
How to Watch: Search for the channel CAYA-MTM on your Roku or Fire Stick device.
It is FREE to download. Tune in for music videos, faith-based movies, shorts, and
teaching/preaching programs designed to encourage the body of believers.
Calling All Creators! Do you have faith-based programming or Indie music videos?
We want to feature you! If you would like to share your content with our audience, please send your MP4s and links to: 📧 cayatv@cayafellowship.com
Christmas Stories Worth Reading
At Christmas we celebrate one of the greatest stories ever told, as God sent Jesus as a baby to a humble set of parents in an even more humble situation, and His sinless life began. One day this precious child would die for the sins of the world and become the savior of all mankind. Truly, Jesus is the greatest gift!
Our Christmas celebrations might include cookies, candy, decorations, presents, time with family, and maybe some holiday movies. Everyone wants warm, happy feelings for the holidays. Hallmark magic is in the air.
This may be an unpopular opinion, but I actually don’t like Hallmark movies. It seems like they all have the same plot, and if you’ve seen one you’ve seen them all. You know what I do like instead? Stories with relatable characters who may meet the holiday season with their own struggles, but they soon remember the joy that comes from the gift of Jesus. I’m not trying to take anyone’s Hallmark movies away from them, so if you like them, I hope you get to watch as many as you want!
I do have some Christian fiction recommendations if you’d like to check them out to enjoy a different kind of uplifting story.
Enchanted by Melissa Tagg: A trio of siblings each experience despair and hope over
the holidays in this novella collection.
Kiss Me on Christmas by Sarah Monzon: A single mother with a neurodivergent son
makes an unlikely but welcome friendship.
This and Every Christmas by Jaycee Weaver: A Christmas-obsessed family’s annual
tradition leads to something special for the oldest daughter.
Like a Winter Snow by Lindsay Harrel: Spend Christmas across the pond with a
woman wondering what her life is apart from caretaking for others.
An Endless Christmas by Cynthia Ruchti: An extended family Christmas turns
awkward with one blizzard and one rejected marriage proposal.
Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant: When two Grinches are set
up, they try out out-hate Christmas, and hijinks ensue.
Movies That Matter:
I Can Only Imagine 2
Article by Deborah J Watson
Coming out on February 20, 2026, is the sequel to the award-winning movie I Can Only Imagine, which was based on the true story of the hit song by MercyMe. The first movie told the story of the chart-topping hit for MercyMe. A story of pain and redemption, focused on Bart Millers’ upbringing and the struggles he dealt with his abusive father. The sequel takes on the story and message of their song Even If.
This is the synopsis from www.icanonlyimagine.com :
After the breakout success of the song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fan base, and a thriving career. But behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, especially the fragile bond with his son, Sam (Sammy Dell). When hopeful newcomer Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia, “This Is Us”) joins the band for their biggest tour yet, he unknowingly brings a renewed gratitude to Bart’s life through their unlikely friendship. Bart soon discovers that Tim carries hardships—and secrets—of his own, forcing him to face his past and repair his relationships with Sam and his wife, Shannon (Sophie Skelton), before fame costs him what matters most.
Based on the heartfelt true story behind the hit single “Even If,” I CAN ONLY IMAGINE
2 is the inspiring next chapter of faith, family, and finding God in the fire.
Directed by Andrew Erwin and Brent McCorkle, written by Brent McCorkle, and
starring John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Arielle Kebbel, Sammy
Dell with Trace Adkins and Dennis Quaid.
Service Times:
Sunday School 10 am
Morning Service 11 am
Evening Service 7 pm
Caya Recovery: Monday 6 pm
Youth Meeting: Tuesday 6 pm
Bible Study: Dinner 6:30 pm, Study 7 pm
15960 US HWY 160 Forsyth, MO
Phone: 417-696-2423
Email: cayapsalms147@gmail.com
Services broadcast on TikTok (caya.fellowship), Facebook, and cayafellowship.com Bible Study broadcast on TikTok.
