Ep 98 - Sacred Moments and Actually Living Your Life in Paris (Yes, Really) with Michelle Wahila

This episode is about showing up to build the life you want. Dawn and Ruth sit down with Michelle Wahila, an ordained Presbyterian pastor who said "nope" to traditional ministry and is now marrying English-speaking couples in Paris, leading retreats, and writing liturgies that'll punch you right in the feels. She's raising her kids French-style, navigating the gorgeous chaos of expat life, and just wrote a book called Ruffled by Grace.

But here's the thing: Michelle's wrestling with the scary possibility of moving back to the States for family reasons, and wondering if her ministry can exist beyond Paris. Spoiler alert—it can, and we're gonna talk about why. This one's for anyone who's ever wondered if there's a creative, unconventional path forward when life throws you a curveball. Because there is, friend. There absolutely is.

LINKS: https://www.discernbydoing.com/

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00:00 A Dreamy Start at the Eiffel Tower

00:16 Welcome to Creative: Meet Dawn and Ruth

00:36 The Joys and Challenges of Community Theater

02:09 A Day on the Farm

03:48 Exploring Fergus Falls' History

06:23 Introducing Michelle Wala: A Unique Ministry in Paris

11:36 Raising Third Culture Kids in France

14:23 Michelle's Book: Healing Through Quirky Liturgies

16:50 Travel Show Ideas and Creative Practices

18:19 Writing Process and Book Journey

19:06 Publisher Collaboration and Book Launch

21:07 Homecoming and Emotional Events

23:18 Creative Collaborations in Paris

24:16 Building a Business and Future Plans

26:08 Balancing Family and Career

28:29 Entrepreneurial Pastor and Future Steps

31:37 Conclusion and Book Information