When a Pastor Gets Cancer: Jason Micheli on Suffering, Storytelling, and Trusting the Church (Part 1)

What happens when the preacher becomes the patient? In this vulnerable and deeply pastoral episode, Rev. Tara Beth Leach and Dr. Mark Quanstrom welcome Jason Micheli, United Methodist pastor, author, and writer of The Tamed Cynic. Jason shares his unexpected call to ministry, his battle with mantle cell lymphoma, and how cancer has shaped both his preaching and his relationship with his congregation. 🎙️ In This Episode: Jason’s unconventional call to ministry and how “permission” became a form of calling What it’s like to pastor while actively undergoing chemotherapy Why being honest about suffering builds trust in a congregation The challenge of preaching Psalm 23 when you're living it 📌 Highlights: [00:03:00] Jason hears Jesus say, “Do what you want to do.” [00:07:00] Learning how to pastor through a “clergy-killing church” [00:12:00] What mantle cell lymphoma has taught Jason about receiving love [00:17:00] Preaching through Psalm 23 while becoming “the elephant in the room” [00:21:00] Suffering as a place of deeper intimacy with God [00:25:00] Why writing and storytelling are acts of pastoral care 💡 Takeaway: Pastors are often expected to carry everyone else’s burdens—but what happens when they’re the ones who need care? Jason’s story reminds us that vulnerability is not weakness—it’s leadership, and that God is often most present in the dark and hidden places we’d rather avoid. Read more on Jason's Blog Tamed Cynic: https://jasonmicheli.substack.com 📖 Next Week: In Part 2, Jason opens up about the theological convictions that shape his ministry—expect a deep dive into the theology of the cross, suffering, and the beauty of telling the truth.