Spiritual Misfits Podcast

About This Series Over six weeks, we're sharing keynote talks and discussions from the second Future Church Conference, held at the Tram Sheds in Glebe. This gathering brought together church leaders, pastors, and Jesus-followers passionate about creating safer, more inclusive faith communities.Whether you're leading church, leaving church, unsure about the whole thing, or just curious about what the future might hold, these conversations explore what it means to reimagine church for everyone.Conference Posture Future Church Conference invited participants to adopt three key postures:Lean in - Sit with discomfort and ask why certain ideas trigger usListen - Hear vulnerable ideas from speakers and connect with each otherLook forward - Focus on future possibilities rather than past woundsWhat You'll Hear in This Episode:Opening welcome from Joel Hollier, on behalf of the Future Church teamAcknowledgement of Country from Mikenzie Ling (Wiradjuri woman, Uniting Church First Nations Strategy and Engagement Consultant)Keynote from Gershon Nimbalker exploring the church's historical DNA of caring for the poorAbout the Speaker: Gershon Nimbalker is National Director of Common Grace, a movement of Christians passionate about justice. He traces how caring for the poor was central to church identity throughout history and challenges both conservative and progressive Christians to reclaim this calling.Learn more about Common Grace: https://www.commongrace.org.au/Learn more about Future Church Conference: https://futurechurchcon.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of Spiritual Misfits, Will Small continues his "Reclaiming the Language" series with Karina Kreminski, exploring whether the word "mission" is still helpful for progressive Christians or too entangled with colonising mindsets. Karina shares her journey of integrating missiology and mysticism. Together they explore how mystical practices might offer a more humble, attentive approach to engaging with the world that transforms both traditional understandings of mission and ourselves.In This EpisodeThe tensions and problematic history associated with the word "mission"Why Karina chooses to "qualify rather than abandon" mission languageThe concept of "mission in reverse" and mutual transformationHow mysticism provides a framework for encountering "that which is beyond" in everyday lifePractical approaches to ordinary mysticism through paying attention and slowing downThe challenges of maintaining spiritual practices in our distraction-filled digital ageHow small, courageous acts might be our path to meaningful change"The one thing that's been consistent is I've always believed in that which is beyond." - Karina Kreminski About Karina KreminskiKarina Kreminski works for Uniting Mission and Education and is the co-founder (along with her husband Armen Gakavian) of At the Edges Publishing, a community dedicated to nurturing emerging Australian writers. She is passionate about Fresh Expressions of church and finding the sacred in everyday life. Karina is currently working on a new book about ordinary mysticism, following her previous work "Urban Spirituality: Embodying God's Mission in the Neighbourhood."Resources Mentioned"How to Do Nothing" - Jenny Odell"Stolen Focus" by Johann HariThe Light Phone - A minimalist phone designed to reduce digital distractionCentring Prayer practice as taught by Thomas KeatingAt the Edges Publishing - https://www.attheedges.com.au/Fresh Expressions - https://www.nswact.uca.org.au/resources/fresh-expressions/Connect with KarinaInstagram: @karinakreminskiSubstack: https://substack.com/@karinakreminskiWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

What happens when women speak up about gender inequality in Christian spaces? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Tracy McEwan, Dr. Rosie Clare Shorter, and Dr. Tanya Riches discuss their research on "feminist complaint collectives" across Catholic, Anglican, and Pentecostal traditions. Drawing on Sara Ahmed's work, they explore how women who raise concerns about sexism often "become the problem" in religious institutions, and how forming collectives can create pathways for change. From historical examples to contemporary activism, this episode offers insights for anyone navigating the complex intersection of faith and feminism.Guests:Dr. Tracy McEwan is a theologian and sociologist of religion at the University of Newcastle and co-facilitates the Australian Women Preach podcast.Dr. Rosie Clare Shorter teaches gender studies at the University of Melbourne and is a research fellow at Deakin University.Dr. Tanya Riches is the director of the Master of Transformation and Development degree at Eastern College Australia.Resources mentioned:"Feminist Complaint Collectives and Doorway Disruptions in Australian Christian Traditions" - the research paper discussed in the episodeSara Ahmed's book "Complaint!" and "The Feminist Killjoy Handbook"The Movement for the Ordination of Women (MOW)Australian Women Preach podcastWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this powerful conversation, Will Small sits down with Andrew Dodd and Scott Higgins from Hamilton Baptist Church following their historic disaffiliation from the NSW/ACT Baptist Association after 99 years of membership (the first time this has happened in the 150+ year history of the Association).After a six-year bureaucratic process, Hamilton Baptist and Canberra Baptist were formally removed from the Association for their affirming stance toward LGBTQ+ people. Andrew and Scott share the painful journey that led to this moment, the flawed process that never allowed for actual biblical discussion, and the surprising hope they've found in what they're calling "Day One" of a new chapter.In this episode:The six-year process that led to the disaffiliation voteHow real relationships with LGBTQ+ Christians transformed their theologyThe irony of a Baptist denomination refusing to discuss biblical interpretationThe powerful speeches Andrew and Scott delivered at the final assemblyThe emerging network of Open Baptists creating new possibilitiesLinks:Open Baptists websitePrevious Spiritual Misfits episodes with Hamilton Baptist (Part 1)Previous Spiritual Misfits episodes with Hamilton Baptist (Part 2)Previous Spiritual Misfits episode about the Open Baptists (with Christine Redwood, Belinda Groves and Nathan Nettleton)Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this illuminating conversation, Will Small speaks with Jana Holland, founder of Celu Selah Wellness, about the powerful intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatic healing. In this episode:Jana shares her fascinating backstory of traveling as a nomadic folk family band through 26 countries over 12 years, and how this experience shaped her understanding of spiritual connectionThe meaning behind "Celu Selah" - combining words for "heaven/wholeness" and "to pause/rest"How encountering people from different spiritual traditions helped Jana recognize her "spiritual mother tongue" while opening her to the beauty of other spiritual languagesThe science behind heart coherence and how our bodies communicate wisdom beyond what our minds can processUnderstanding polyvagal theory and how our nervous systems are constantly seeking safety and connectionThe groundbreaking research in neurotheology showing how spiritual practices activate specific areas of the brain, offering neuroprotective benefitsThe difference between being "religious but not spiritual" versus having an authentic spiritual practicePractical ways to incorporate embodied spiritual awareness into everyday activitiesHow trauma can disconnect us from our bodies and how somatic practices can help restore wholenessThe concept of "super-regulation" - accessing spiritual awareness through our neurological "docking station"Jana offers a compassionate framework for those who may feel like misfits in traditional religious spaces but still long for authentic spiritual connection. Her integration of cutting-edge neuroscience with contemplative practices provides a path toward wholeness that honors both ancient wisdom and modern understanding.About Jana Holland:Jana Holland is the founder of Celu Selah, a wellness practice dedicated to fostering emotional and spiritual well-being. As a Spiritual Director and Somatic Coach, she has spent two decades exploring the intersection of neuroscience, spirituality, and somatics. Her approach is deeply rooted in the Way of Yeshua while embracing an open, compassionate stance toward diverse spiritual paths. Jana supports individuals in seasons of awakening, transition, disappointment, or grief, providing a space to explore, heal, connect, and rediscover purpose.Connect with Jana:Website: www.celuselah.com Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode of Spiritual Misfits, Will Small interviews Robyn Whitaker, a biblical scholar specialising in the Book of Revelation. They discuss Robyn's journey of faith, her experiences as a spiritual misfit, and the relevance of apocalyptic literature in today's world. The conversation delves into the political implications of Revelation, the nature of divine violence, and the hopeful imagery found in the final chapters of the text. Robyn emphasises the importance of understanding Revelation as a critique of power and injustice, rather than a tool for justifying violence. They also touch on the significance of a hermeneutic of love, the creative engagement of scripture by figures like Jesus and Paul, and the challenges of introducing children to biblical stories in a way that is life-giving and positive. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this special Easter episode, Will Small and Mitch Forbes explore the meaning of Jesus' death and resurrection beyond traditional frameworks. They discuss alternative understandings of atonement, René Girard's scapegoat theory, and how the Easter story reveals God's non-violent love rather than divine wrath.Key Topics:Rethinking traditional atonement theoriesThe problem with viewing God as wrathful and violentRené Girard's theories on mimetic desire, rivalry, and scapegoatingHow the cross exposes human violence rather than divine violenceFinding life-giving ways to understand Jesus' death and resurrectionResources Mentioned:James Alison's "Jesus the Forgiving Victim"James Cone's "The Cross and the Lynching Tree"Brian Zahnd's "The Wood Between the Worlds"Thomas Merton's writingsRené Girard's work on mimetic theoryWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

 In this thought-provoking episode Will Small welcomes back Karl Hand to explore the often misunderstood concepts of sin and grace. As part of our series examining challenging theological concepts, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on terms that have sometimes been weaponised against marginalised communities.About Karl HandKarl Hand is a pastor with the Metropolitan Community Church and recently began working with the Australian Student Christian Movement, helping to revitalise campus ministry. With his background in theology and experience ministering primarily to LGBTQIA+ communities, Karl brings unique insights to these complex topics.Key Themes ExploredReclaiming the Language of SinKarl discusses how the word "sin" has been traumatic for many, especially in queer communities, where it's been used to shame and exclude. Yet rather than abandoning the term, he suggests reclaiming it—similar to how the word "queer" has been reclaimed—to access its transformative power when properly understood.Beyond "Crime and Punishment"The conversation traces how our understanding of sin has been shaped by Augustinian theology and mistranslations that frame sin as a crime demanding divine punishment. Karl offers alternative frameworks from theologians like Irenaeus, who viewed sin more as an interruption in our journey toward becoming who we're meant to be.Sin as SeparationRather than viewing sin as primarily about rule-breaking, Karl suggests understanding sin as "anything that comes between us and God." This reframing helps us see sin as exile or separation rather than as moral failure requiring punishment.The Relationship Between Sin and GraceKarl shares his personal experience of grace at age 13, describing how the recognition of sin created space for transformation. "If there's nothing wrong with where I'm at now, then I don't feel the need to cling onto grace quite as much," he explains, highlighting how sin and grace work together in our spiritual journey.Collective Sin and RepentanceThe conversation explores how sin operates not just individually but collectively through systems, structures, and intergenerational patterns. Karl points to global political movements and social injustices as evidence of our deep interconnectedness and shared responsibility.Queer Theology's GiftsKarl highlights how queer theology offers valuable perspectives on sin and grace, including the reclamation of pride as a virtue rather than a sin, the importance of hybrid identities, and the power of collective liberation.Recommended Reading:Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode, Will talks with Kevin Sweeney about his new book "The Cosmic Christ and the Concrete Jesus: Mystics, the Black Prophetic Tradition, and Why I'm Still a Christian."Kevin shares how the mystics gave him the Cosmic Christ, while the Black prophetic tradition offered him the Concrete Jesus. Together, these traditions help us embrace both the universal presence of divine love and the urgent call to justice and liberation.Key Topics Covered:The difference between experiencing Christ and just believing in JesusHow the Black prophetic tradition reveals Jesus as both liberator and threat to empireWhy being "safe" in Christ allows us to become "dangerous" to injusticeThe transition from pastoring to hospice chaplaincyWhy unity with Christ transcends religious boundariesThe Cosmic Christ and the Concrete Jesus is out on May 6th. Follow Kevin Sweeney for updates. Connect with Kevin:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinsweeneynow/Website: https://www.kevinsweeneynow.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

What happens when the word "salvation" drops out of your vocabulary? In this thoughtful conversation, Will Small is joined by Becca De Souza and Carolyn Meers to explore how our understanding of salvation can evolve beyond formulas and altar calls toward something more communal, justice-oriented, and present. Together they wrestle with questions of what we're being saved from, who's doing the saving, and whether salvation can be meaningful for progressive Christians today.We explore:How our early understandings of salvation were often tied to transactional spirituality and individual "soul-saving" Exploring salvation as solidarity rather than rescue"Salvific resources" and our participation in God's work of healing and restorationReimagining salvation as "salvage work" - what can be rescued and repurposed from the shipwrecks of our worldThe connection between personal salvation and collective liberationWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Welcome back to another Pub Theology episode! Will Small reunites with the good Rev Mitch Forbes to revisit a spicy topic: hell and the afterlife. "Is justice in God's realm retributive or restorative? That's the whole question."What We Cover:The three main theological perspectives on hell and the afterlifeWhy Mitch and Will have both embraced Christian universalismHow our understanding of justice shapes our view of the afterlifeThe philosophical problems with eternal conscious tormentWhy psychological continuity matters in any vision of heavenWant to hear Mitch and Will's earlier conversations about hell from the podcast backlog?Part 1: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1925719/episodes/10513489Part 2: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1925719/episodes/10598997Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this powerful episode Will Small welcomes Chalise van Wyngaardt (they/them), also known as Boy Renaissance, for a deeply moving conversation about faith, queerness, and finding belonging in spirituality and expression through poetry.Episode Highlights:Chalise's Journey: From growing up in Baptist and Pentecostal churches to discovering their queer identity at 16, Chalise shares their experience of being confronted by church leadership and choosing to walk away rather than deny their authentic self.Faith Fluidity: Chalise describes their "non-binary faith" - embracing days when they feel more atheist than Christian and vice versa, finding beauty in the mystery rather than rigid definitions.Spiritual Transformation: After exploring various spiritual traditions, Chalise found healing when they discovered West End Uniting Church with its pride flag and inclusive communion, allowing them to reconnect with Christianity on their own terms.Poetry Performance: Chalise shares two powerful poems - "God is Non-Binary" and "Shooting Stars Fall into My Mouth" - exploring their spiritual journey, gender identity, and relationship with God.Future Church Vision: The conversation concludes with reflections on creating more inclusive spiritual spaces where diversity is celebrated and no one feels like an outsider.Connect with Chalise:Instagram: @boyrenaissanceWatch the "God is Non-Binary" video by Boy Renaissance featuring Froonky: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1rqWCYUtogWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

LIVE: Is Christianity Still Good News? (Panel Discussion from 2023)Originally recorded June 2023In this timely replay from our archives, we revisit a powerful live panel discussion that feels more relevant than ever. As we navigate 2025's challenging landscape of rising Christian nationalism and global uncertainty, four thoughtful voices offer alternative perspectives on Christianity's role and relevance today.Featured Panelists:Gregg MorrisSally DouglasWill NicholasCarlynne NunnKey Topics Explored:Woman wisdom and Jesus as the feminine divineThe 'cultural tale' we carry with usUsing sci-fi and storytelling to explore theological questionsFinding good news in failure, disappointment and ordinary momentsEpisode Highlights:Beautiful alternatives to dominant Christian narrativesFresh perspectives on what "good news" means todayThoughtful engagement with contemporary challengesHope-filled possibilities for faith in uncertain timesImportant Update: Spiritual Misfits is now being supported by the Sydney Central Coast Presbytery of the Uniting Church. For those who support the podcast or wish to begin supporting, please note our new bank account details are available at spiritualmisfits.com.au under the 'Support Us' tab.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

The conversation revolves around the Religious Trauma Collective, a group formed by Jane Kennedy, Samantha Sellers and Elise Heerde. They discuss the importance of recognising and addressing religious trauma, the context of this issue in Australia and New Zealand, and the differences between healthy and unhealthy religious environments. The Collective aims to provide resources, support, and community for those affected by religious trauma. In this conversation, the group explore the complexities of community, the importance of diversity in faith spaces, and the nuances of navigating online influences and deconstruction. They discuss the journey of healing from religious trauma, the balance between public and private healing, and the significance of therapy in this space.Learn more here: https://www.thereligioustraumacollective.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Join Will and Marla Taviano for a wholefarted conversation about creativity, authenticity, and finding freedom beyond religious labels. From writing conservative marriage books to creating protest art from James Dobson literature, Marla shares her journey of unlearning and discovering what it means to truly come alive.In this episode we discuss:The origin story of "living whole farted"How poetry became Marla's language of resistanceMaking protest art from evangelical literatureThe influence of Rachel Held EvansFinding authenticity beyond strict religious frameworksThe relationship between creativity and spiritualityConnect with Marla: https://itsmemarla.com/ Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Mikenzie Ling shares her journey as a proud Wiradjuri woman navigating her identity and faith. She discusses her roles in community engagement and Indigenous theology, reflecting on her experiences growing up with challenges at home and a strong sense of emerging spirituality. Mikenzie explores the complexities of her relationship with God, the impact of her cultural background, and the integration of Aboriginal spirituality with her Christian faith. Through her story, she highlights the importance of embracing one's identity and the healing power of connection to Country and community. The conversation explores the journey from fragmentation to wholeness, the significance of land in Aboriginal theology, and the complexities of identity within the context of colonisation. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this conversation, Jonathan Cornford discusses his journey of living simply and the implications of faith on economics. The discussion explores the historical context of Christianity's relationship with capitalism, the importance of community, and the challenges of navigating guilt and shame in economic choices. In this conversation, Will and Jonathan explore the complexities of economic systems, particularly capitalism, socialism, and communism. They discuss the importance of defining these terms clearly and the implications of each system on society. The conversation shifts to the challenges of navigating change within communities and the role of individual actions in creating collective impact. They emphasise the need for hope and resilience in the face of despair, advocating for a deeper understanding of ethical consumption and the political engagement necessary to drive systemic change.Learn more about Manna Gum here: https://mannagum.org.au/Listen to the episode of 'MannaCast' Jonathan references here: https://mannagum.podbean.com/e/ep-19-christianity-and-the-rise-of-capitalism/Read The Guardian article Will references in the conversation here: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/commentisfree/2023/dec/23/jonathan-cornford-interview-low-income-family-rich-lifeWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Sarah Bacaller is the editor of 'Apostate: Stories of Deconversion.' In this conversation Sarah and Will explore themes of apostasy, the fragility of fundamentalist faith, and the importance of listening to personal stories of deconstruction and/or loss of faith. They discuss the cultural contexts of Christianity in the US and Australia, the challenges of engaging with differing beliefs, and the need for compassionate dialogue. They delve into the complexities of interpreting religious texts, the diversity within Christianity, and the significance of compassion and kindness in fostering human dignity. The dialogue emphasises the need for openness to learning and understanding others' experiences, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and respectful approach to spirituality and community.Sarah's website: https://www.sarahbacaller.com/Buy 'Apostate: Stories of Deconversion': https://www.amazon.com/Apostate-Stories-Deconversion-Sarah-Bacaller/dp/1965646018Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this conversation, Geoff Bullock shares his profound journey of faith, music, and the complexities of his time with Hillsong. He reflects on his early days in the church, the creation of the Hillsong music team, and the pivotal moments that shaped his spiritual life. Bullock discusses the rise and fall of Hillsong, expressing his grief over its trajectory while emphasizing the importance of separating personal faith from institutional flaws. He encourages listeners to seek genuine encounters with God within the church community, despite the challenges and disappointments they may face. Geoff and Will explore themes of hope, healing, and the complexities of power within faith communities. They discuss the dual nature of suffering and renewal, the importance of art in expressing faith, and the journey of personal transformation. Bullock shares his experiences of leadership, the challenges faced in the church, and the significance of surrendering power. The dialogue emphasizes the need for a compassionate understanding of others' suffering and the role of music and creativity in spiritual expression.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode Will Small interviews Jono Ingram, exploring his journey from being a pastor to finding his place in the world through nature, spirituality, and community development. Jono shares his experiences of feeling like a misfit within the church, the influence of his parents' faith, and how he integrates his spirituality with his current work in environmental social enterprise. Jono discusses his journey of creating a nonprofit focused on environmental sustainability and community engagement. He emphasizes the importance of connecting spirituality with environmental action, advocating for a holistic approach to faith that includes caring for the earth. Jono shares insights on how everyday activities can be infused with mindfulness and spirituality, highlighting the beauty in ordinary moments. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by those trying to integrate faith with environmental activism and the need for a more expansive understanding of what it means to be a Christian in today's world.Explore some of Jono's 'Dirt Church Liturgy' work at: https://jcingram.wordpress.com/Learn more about Jono's non-profit here: https://www.weloveaintree.org/Get tickets to Future Church Conference coming up on January 28 now! Use SPIRITUALMISFITS at checkout for $10 off: https://events.humanitix.com/future-church-conference-2025/ticketsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode Will engages in a rich conversation with Liz Charlotte Grant, author of 'Knock at the Sky: Seeking God in Genesis After Losing Faith in the Bible.' They explore Liz's early relationship with the Bible, her journey through evangelicalism, and the evolution of her faith. Liz shares her insights on the importance of narrative in shaping beliefs, the complexities of trust within evangelical communities, and the need for inclusive and equitable spaces for dialogue about faith. Liz and Will explore the complexities of interpreting scripture, the significance of God's voice, and the importance of spiritual autonomy. They discuss the parallels between God's communication and whale song, the value of Jewish midrash in understanding biblical texts, and the need for personal interpretation in a world filled with diverse voices. Liz emphasizes the importance of approaching the Bible with a sense of wonder and astonishment rather than seeking facts and certainty, encouraging listeners to trust their own spiritual journeys and interpretations.'Knock at the Sky' is out now. Learn more here: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802883759/knock-at-the-sky/Get tickets to Future Church Conference coming up on January 28 now! Use SPIRITUALMISFITS at checkout for $10 off: https://events.humanitix.com/future-church-conference-2025/ticketsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Yo! Brand new podcast episodes will be coming your way in early 2025, but for now I'm pulling out a couple of great episodes to revisit from the back-log, like this chat with Carolyn Meers.This is a conversation about what it's like to go through faith crises, deconstruction, dark nights of the soul. etc etc. while pastoring a church. This is not an easy road. And I have not heard many people talk about it from the perspective of being a pastor. But I don't think it's uncommon. I hope that this conversation gives people a little more empathy for some of the tensions that many pastors deal with, trying to love a group of people with a diversity of opinions and perspectives, while going through their own process. If you are a pastor, I hope this makes you feel like your process is ok. And you too are not alone. Out of her own journey of change, Caro has shifted the way she leads and shapes church community. And in my opinion, what she describes sounds exactly like what I crave when I think of the church of tomorrow (which we've spoken a little bit about lately). It is well worth listening to this conversation just to hear how Caro approaches things like teaching the bible and nurturing community nowadays. Get tickets to Future Church Conference coming up on January 28 now! Use SPIRITUALMISFITS at checkout for $10 off: https://events.humanitix.com/future-church-conference-2025/ticketsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Yo! Brand new podcast episodes will be coming your way in early 2025, but for now I'm pulling out a couple of great episodes to revisit from the back-log, like this chat with Michael Frost and Shane Meyer-Holt...Michael Frost (the kiwi version who hosts 'In the Shift' podcast) and Shane-Meyer Holt joined me (Will) for a rich conversation exploring their own stories and experiences around high control religious settings and their attempts to create much more open, gentle and generous communities these days. The conversation explores power dynamics, coercive control and the risk these things can pose to communities of all sizes - mega to micro. We also talk about embodiment, processing trauma and the kind of spirituality that embraces and listens to the body. There's so much good stuff in this one. Enjoy.Check out the excellent 'In the Shift': https://intheshift.com/Get tickets to Future Church Conference coming up on January 28 now! Use SPIRITUALMISFITS at checkout for $10 off: https://events.humanitix.com/future-church-conference-2025/ticketsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this Christmas special, Will Small is joined by Mitch Forbes and Ella Evans for an honest conversation about the complexities, frustrations, and hidden griefs of the Christmas season. Between music, conversation, and poetry, they explore:The tension between Christmas joy and real-world sufferingThe liturgical calendar as an alternative rhythm to the consumer-driven grindFinding hope in small acts of kindnessThe radical nature of the incarnation storyGet tickets to Future Church Conference coming up on January 28 now! Use SPIRITUALMISFITS at checkout for $10 off: https://events.humanitix.com/future-church-conference-2025/ticketsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode Simon Nixon joins Will to discuss the challenges of navigating difficult conversations, especially during the holiday season, and the significance of recognizing emotions and setting boundaries. Simon highlights the need for self-awareness and understanding triggers while engaging in conversations with family and friends, advocating for incremental sharing and vulnerability. The conversation concludes with practical strategies for preparing for difficult discussions and managing emotional responses.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Dr Tanya Riches is the Director of Master of Transformational Development at Eastern College, and she has a PhD from Fuller Theological Seminary. Her interdisciplinary project with Aboriginal Pentecostal leaders (located at the intersection of development studies, anthropology, and Pentecostal theology) won the David Allan Hubbard Award from the School of Intercultural Studies. Her monograph entitled Worship and Social Engagement in Urban Aboriginal-led Australian Pentecostal Congregations was published in 2019 with Brill. It investigated links between urban Aboriginal-led congregations' worship practices and their social justice initiatives.In this episode Tanya Riches and Will Small explore the intersections of spirituality, community, and social justice within the context of Pentecostalism and Australian culture. They discuss the importance of reconnecting with nature, the role of grief and lament in faith, and the influence of Aboriginal spirituality on Pentecostal practices. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by Pentecostal communities in Australia, the shifting landscape of spirituality, and the need for practical theology that engages with real-world issues. Towards the end of the conversation they reflect on the season of Advent and the presence of God in unexpected places.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Kelly Latimore is an artist whose modern day Icons have an incredible ability to challenge where we see Christ in the world. Some of his most known works reimagine the Nativity in contexts of modern suffering: amongst the homeless in a tent city, seeking safety as refugees, huddling beneath the rubble in Palestine. At the beginning of the season of Advent this is a powerful conversation about the role of religious art, the places where God is located in our neighbourhoods, and the ways we might learn to see anew. Kelly shares some of his personal story, and how he began to experiment with Iconography. Will and Kelly discuss the reactions to some of these pieces, the tensions between tradition and progress and the way communities can use art to better represent the image of God in their midst. Connect with Kelly's work here: https://kellylatimoreicons.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Will Small, Joel Hollier, and Christine Redwood reflect on their experiences and insights from the inaugural Future Church Conference at the beginning of this year and look towards the next one on January 28, 2025. They discuss the importance of collaboration, the need for change within the church, and the significance of creating inclusive spaces for marginalized voices. They discuss trying to hold both optimism and grief in the current state of faith communities, as well as emphasising the necessity of organising for change and the value of small, local initiatives. Get a ticket for Future Church conference here (use code SPIRITUALMISFITS for $10 off): https://futurechurchcon.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this conversation, Tim Whitaker discusses the complexities of the recent political landscape in the U.S., particularly focusing on the impact of Trump and the role of Evangelicalism. He reflects on his personal journey and how The New Evangelicals began. The discussion highlights the challenges and contradictions within Evangelicalism and the need for a more progressive and compassionate approach to faith. Tim and Will then explore the complexities of community, identity, and faith in a digital age. They discuss the importance of grappling with one's heritage, the role of digital communities in fostering connections, and the challenges of finding embodied faith communities. The conversation also touches on the need for systemic change within the church, the discovery of new theological perspectives, and the motivation to resist harmful ideologies like Christian nationalism. Connect with The New Evangelicals here: https://www.thenewevangelicals.com/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

I presume many of you, like me, are feeling a deep swirl of emotions coming out of a week where we have witnessed the re-election of Trump. Honestly it feels so baffling to me that someone can so blatantly be a convicted felon, a misogynist, an authoritarian, completely void of compassion and empathy for vulnerable people…and with all this and so much more on full display and public record… still be worshipped and adored and actively chosen by a majority of voters. And one of the most disturbing realities is how many white Evangelical Christians unashamedly throw their support and indeed their votes behind this man. There's a strong argument to be made that Evangelical support for Trump in 2016 has been one of the major catalysts for people deconstructing faith and leaving the institutional church. The #exvangelical movement can largely be traced back to that election.White Evangelicals aren't solely responsible for Trump — and why he had such a clear majority of support in this election is beyond my ability or this podcast's ability to answer. And yet, this disturbing confluence of politics and religion and the questions it raises has obviously been very real and personal for many of us. And so this week I actually wanted to replay an earlier podcast conversation from a couple years back now, with David Gushee (that I think remains very relevant).   David has been one of the voices that has helped me understand the history that led to what American Evangelicalism is today. He has also been a strong advocate for defending democracy — and my second of two interviews with him was discussing his book ‘Defending Democracy from its Christian Enemies'. You may want to go back and listen to that though I understand if the wound feels too fresh right now (though of course the need to defend democracy only increases after this election result). But I actually wanted to revisit my first conversation with David, in which we mainly spoke about his book ‘After Evangelicalism' which asks where do you go when you've seen the ugliest manifestations of Evangelical Christianity and want none of that…but you still want a faith that makes sense and approaches the world in ethical, compassionate, just ways? David speaks so well about this.I'm reminded this week — as I often am — that the most important choice is not between theism or atheism. Between religious or non-religious. Christian or not Christian. The choice is what kind of Christian will I be? What kind of human will I be? What kind of neighbour will I be? Evil arrives under the guise of many labels. So too does love. And when we fail to see love through the most powerful leaders in this world — we might want to throw our hands up in despair. Yet, I think it only becomes more essential that we choose the alternate reality — the truer reality — of self-giving love lived out in our lives and neighbourhoods Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Tim Winton gave the Centre for Public Christianity's 2024 Richard Johnson lecture. Will and his brother Joel went along. In this conversation they discuss Tim's powerful words on toxic positivity, climate crisis, and the prophetic voices of young, environmental activists crying out for change. Read an excerpt from Tim's lecture here: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/oct/27/if-fossil-fuel-dependency-is-a-global-addiction-climate-activists-are-prophets-trying-to-save-us-from-our-stupor?CMP=share_btn_url Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Anna Robinson is a regular co-host on Nomad podcast, and the founder of LiveLight|DwellDeep. She describes herself as "a contemplative, deeply drawn to the mystics and misfits, those who feel at home in the wilderness."In this conversation, Will and Anna explore the themes of wonder, contemplative spirituality, and the journey of rediscovering a deeper connection with the divine. They discuss the importance of nurturing a sense of awe in children, the transformative power of contemplative practices, and the significance of embracing doubt and mystery in spiritual journeys. Anna shares her personal experiences with various spiritual practices and the influence of mentors in her life, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to spirituality that integrates daily life with moments of reflection and connection to nature. This episode was produced by Meeting Ground and edited by Phil McNab.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

In this episode Sally Longley shares her journey from a belief in violence to embracing pacifism and Ignatian spirituality. Sally shares her experiences in South Africa during apartheid, her theological studies, and the transformative power of silence and imagination in spiritual practice. The conversation delves into the complexities of nonviolence, the role of anger and grief, and the importance of silence in modern life, emphasizing that true transformation often requires confronting uncomfortable truths. In this conversation, Will Small and Sally explore the significance of rest, silence, and contemplative practices in a chaotic world. They discuss the essential nature of patience in love, the importance of creating inclusive communities, and the role of spiritual direction in navigating crises of faith. Sally emphasizes the power of deep listening and the need for spaces where individuals can come as they are, fostering a sense of belonging and connection.Connect more with Sally's work here: https://www.longley.com.au/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Jack Turner joins Will and Mitch at the virtual pub to discuss Christianity and political engagement. Do Christians typically care more about meeting the needs of the poor than asking why they're poor in the first place? Was Jesus a communist? Should we be capitalists? Socialists? Something else-ists?Crack a drink and join us as we throw around ideas, and occasionally say something wise between the banter.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello fellow misfits, friends, humans of all kinds! An absolutely delightful conversation awaits you with Scott Erickson. He's a painter, author, performance speaker. His instagram bio says ‘Curator of awesomeness'. And I think that's absolutely accurate. We had a great chat about Scott's creative process, the role of visual art In forming how we see the world and the paradoxical nature of life, creativity and spirituality.TWO OTHER GREAT THINGS TO TELL YOU ABOUT:1. The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide recently launched! A free set of videos, podcast episodes, suggested practices and more available on our website, spiritualmisfits.com.au. Great for your own process, also great for discussing with friends.2. Future Church Conference tickets are live! January 28th next year. A day of misfits and fringe dwellers asking what kind of Church would we actually want to stick around for, advocate for, work for? And how do we make that happen? You can get an exclusive Spiritual Misfits discount right now. $10 off if you book a ticket using the discount code SPIRITUALMISFITS. Connect more with Scott Erickson: https://www.scottericksonart.com/Follow Scott on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottthepainter/Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.The Spiritual Misfits Survival Guide (FREE): https://www.spiritualmisfits.com.au/survivalguideSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/View all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Mitch, Hannah and Will crack a drink and throw around various questions from Spiritual Misfits listeners (submitted in the Facebook group)Questions/topics discussed include: Is there a role for hedonism and pleasure in connecting us with the divine?Who is responsible for creating safety within a community? What place should lament have in faith...and when does it turn into wallowing?Do church-based organisations have double-standards when it comes to supporting LGBTQI+ people?Can you talk about the 'gospel' without using any Christianise?  Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Scott Parker comes on the podcast to discuss 'Hillsong Boy': a theatrical exploration of the highs and lows of growing up queer in a megachurch, based on Scott's real life. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Jason John is a fascinating human being with a very interesting story doing very interesting things. He's an ordained minister in the Uniting Church, has a PhD in zoology and is, amongst other things, a ‘forest chaplain.'In this conversation we talk about evolution, sexual ethics, eco-faith communities and poetry.At the end of this episode Jason shares a couple of his poems — which in my opinion are brilliant. One of the poems in particular uses strong language that you may not want to listen to with kids around. Or if you're the kind of person who potentially may be offended by some strong language, you're also welcome to not listen to it. In my opinion it is an excellent piece of art, that provokes some great questions around language and offence and patriarchy and divinity, and we do unpack some of that briefly afterwards. That poem starts at around 53 minutes. Everything before then is great if you want to listen that far and then tap out. Of course, you're also welcome to skip straight to the juicy bit if you are now desperate to hear strong language. In our conversation we talk about one of Jason's books, called ‘Christian Sex Today', which Jason has very generously made free for listeners of the pod. What a top guy! Listen to the episode, download his book and then send him a warm message of gratitude.Learn more about Jason and his work: https://ecofaith.org/Get Jason's book ‘Christian Sex Today' FREE!https://ecofaith.org/freebiesPassword: SpiritualMisfitsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Amy Kenny, author of 'My Body Is Not A Prayer Request,' joins Will for a discussion about disability justice and ableism in the church. She shares her experiences of being prayed over for her disability to be erased and the harmful treatment she received in the church. Amy emphasizes the importance of recognizing the image of God in disabled bodies and reframing our understanding of healing and curing. She challenges the ableist language, assumptions, and practices that exist in churches and calls for a more inclusive and holistic approach to faith. The conversation explores the themes of inclusivity, disability in scripture, and creating communities that fully receive the gifts of all members. Amy Kenny shares her journey of accepting and being proud of her disabled identity and how her theology has evolved to embrace disability. She emphasizes the need to move beyond tolerance and charity towards celebrating and learning from disabled individuals. Amy also discusses the importance of unlearning ableism, creating cultures of access, and developing a community care network for disabled members. The conversation concludes with final thoughts for both disabled and non-disabled listeners.Amy's website: https://amy-kenny.com/Amy's book: 'My Body is not a Prayer Request'Keywordsdisability justice, ableism, church, disabled bodies, healing, curing, image of God, inclusive faith, inclusivity, disability, scripture, theology, identity, acceptance, pride, ableism, access, community care, unlearning, celebrationChapters00:50Introduction and Background of Amy Kenny04:02Feeling Like a Spiritual Misfit08:00Encountering Jesus in Unexpected Places11:03The Harmful Ableism in the Church17:40Reframing Our Understanding of God and Disability31:54Reshaping Conceptions of God for Inclusivity38:18Moving Beyond Tolerance to Fully Receiving Gifts44:11Developing a Community Care Network for Disabled Members48:43Architecting Life and Community for Co-Flourishing50:47Learning from and with Disabled Individuals58:29Embracing Divine Identity as Disabled IndividualsWant to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

This is the fifth and final episode in our mini-series produced in collaboration with the Pulse team from Uniting Mission and Education. And in my opinion, this one was such a profound, vulnerable and meaningful conversation. Sarah Bishop and James Aaron joined me to explore mental health and loneliness in the context of faith and spirituality. When I was sitting with Sarah and James having this conversation it felt holy to me. It felt deeply honest and human. And I hope that is your experience as you listen. A strong theme that comes through in this conversation is the strength in vulnerability, and the dignity in asking for help. So if you listen to this and you're in a place where you need support with your own mental health, remember, there's no shame in reaching out for help. Watch on YouTube here.Download the accompanying discussion guide here.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Take a quick moment to think about how much technology has changed during your lifetime? What was the height of tech when you were a kid? Can you divide your life up into before and after internet connection? The pace of technological change can be hard to keep up with — but without a doubt it has an impact on our lives, our communities — and our spirituality. In this episode, Aditee Vora, Somerset Drayton and Jonty Conford join me to explore questions around AI, social media, spiritual formation….touching on the things we're grateful for as well as the things we worry about. This is part 4 in our five episode series brought to you by Spiritual Misfits in collaboration with UME's Pulse team. You can watch this episode on YouTube or download the accompanying discussion guide to chat through these big topics with your own crew, where ever you find yourself. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello good people, Welcome to the third conversation in our five episode mini-series with UME's Pulse team. Over the last two weeks we've explored generational divides and climate crisis, eco anxiety and the like.  This week another big conversation. What does it mean to keep faith in a world of racial injustice? Are people of faith in Australia today able to honestly grapple with racism in our history and our present moment? Why does it seem like the church is often no better than the rest of society in this regard? And what might it look like to continue the work of decolonising Christianity and creating anti-racist faith spaces? This is a big conversation — so much bigger than this podcast episode — but here to spark some of your thinking around these questions I'm joined by Nathan Tyson, Radhika Sukumar-White and Leisl Homes. Watch this episode on Youtube here.Download the accompanying discussion guide here. Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello again good people!This is the second in our series of 5 collaborative conversations hosted by Spiritual Misfits and the Uniting Mission and Education Pulse team, exploring major challenges in our world today and the kind of faith that doesn't shy away from them or just respond with unhelpful platitudes.And this week we're delving into a huge topic. If faith doesn't have something to say about climate crisis, about eco anxiety, about what it means to care for and advocate for this one planet that we have — then, what good is that faith? On the other hand, how might our spirituality and the Christian tradition help ground us — literally reconnect us to the ground beneath our feet. That is what Joyce Tangi, Karina Kreminski and Jono Row join me to discuss in this episode. You can watch the full filmed conversation on YouTube here if that's your jam, you can also download our accompanying discussion guide to use in your context.Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Spiritual Misfits and Uniting Mission and Education's Pulse team have collaborated to bring you a series of conversations about 5 pressing challenges we face on planet earth today, and the kind of faith that may help emerging generations to navigate and engage with them. In this conversation a Boomer (Ken Day), Gen X (Joanna Drayton), Millennial (Will Small) and Gen Z (Ella Evans) discuss generational divides and opportunities in the realm of spirituality and community.Watch this episode on YouTubeDownload the discussion guide that accompanies this episode Learn more about the UME Pulse team Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Want to reach out and let us know your thoughts or suggestions for the show? Send us a message here; we'd love to hear from you.In this episode Will is joined by Christine Redwood, Belinda Groves and Nathan Nettleton to discuss the emergence of the Open Baptists, a new Baptist movement within Australia. The Open Baptists seek to reimagine what it means to work together as Baptist churches, focusing on partnership, collective decision-making, and freedom of conscience. They hope to retain the Baptist identity while challenging the abuse of power and the exclusion of certain groups...that has happened in other Baptist spaces in recent years! Learn more at https://openbaptists.org/KeywordsOpen Baptists, Baptist community, emergence, movement, partnership, collective decision-making, freedom of conscience, Baptist identity, abuse of power, inclusion, Open Baptists, Jesus, sexuality, community, welcome, church, faith, lament, healing, joy, alternative, Baptist churches, differences, mission, conversation, Holy SpiritSign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

The Reverend Dr Karen Pack is a religious historian, ordained Christian minister, Commonwealth-registered marriage celebrant, and current President of Spiritual Care Australia. For over twenty five years she has been engaged in training pastors, chaplains, leaders and teachers in Australia, North America, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Her doctoral research explored the marginalization and erasure of women and LGBTQ+ Christians from religious histories in Australia.In this conversation, Karen shares about the kind of faith she grew up with and the deep sense of calling she had from a young age. She then shares about losing her employment at a Bible College after coming out as a queer woman, in a relationship. We then discuss what she found on the other side of that experience, and the way she continues to live out her sense of calling in the world. Karen also shares about her doctoral research into the erasure of women and LGBTQI+ folks in the recorded histories of Christianity in Australia. This is a vulnerable, moving, challenging and deeply important conversation, and a gift to all who take the time to listen. Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

SummaryIn this conversation, Will Small, Thomas Jay Oord, and Becca De Souza discuss open and relational theology, the challenges of suffering, and the process of deconstruction and reconstruction in faith. They also touch on the topic of LGBTQ+ affirmation within religious institutions. Thomas shares his personal journey from a classical theist position to open and relational theology, emphasizing the importance of understanding God's power as love. The conversation explores the need for a faith that embraces doubt and uncertainty while still providing comfort and meaning. They also discuss the role of certainty in children's faith development and the importance of allowing space for questioning and exploration. They explore the idea that salvation is not just liberation from pain, but also survival and quality of life, requiring the cooperation of both God and humanity. They also delve into the role of prayer in an open and relational theology, emphasizing that prayer is communication with God and can bring about change through our actions. They touch on the concept of miracles and how they occur when God and creation work together for something good. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the value of open and relational theology in providing a picture of God that is true for all people, especially those who have been marginalized and oppressed.Keywords open and relational theology, suffering, deconstruction, reconstruction, LGBTQ+ affirmation, faith, doubt, certainty, children's faith development, God, suffering, open and relational theology, salvation, cooperation, prayer, miraclesTakeaways Open and relational theology views God as interactive and responsive, and recognizes the limits of God's power. It offers a framework that aligns with our experiences and intuitions about love and free will.Certainty is not the goal of faith. Embracing doubt and uncertainty can lead to a more mature and honest understanding of God and the world.Children's faith development involves different stages, and it is natural for young children to have a black-and-white view of God. As they grow, it is important to create a safe space for them to ask questions and explore their beliefs.Traditional theologies can be traumatizing and dismissive of our experiences. Open and relational theology provides a more inclusive and compassionate perspective that takes into account the diversity of human experiences.The process of deconstruction and reconstruction in faith can be challenging but also liberating. It involves reevaluating our beliefs and theological frameworks, and embracing a faith that is more aligned with our values and experiences. Salvation is not just liberation from pain, but also survival and quality of life, requiring the cooperation of both God and humanity.God is always acting and working in the world, and our response to God's activity is crucial for the desired outcome.Prayer is communication with God and can bring about change through our actions in the world.Miracles occur when God and creation work together for something good, and they are not interruptions of nature.Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Well hello again my friends! If you've been listening in recent weeks I hope you have enjoyed these talks from Future Church Conference. I am excited to share that a few of us met this last week to start planning the next one — it's going to be great. Follow New City Church or Spiritual Misfits on Instagram for a date announcement soon. This will be the last piece of content for now from the inaugural Future Church Conference — and it's a little different. On the evening of the day we asked 5 different speakers to give a 7 minute pitch for an idea they think is vital for the future church. So now   you have the opportunity to hear these fantastic talks — micro in length, but each one packs a punch.  Keep listening and you will hear:JOYCE TANGI on anti-racismJESSICA MORTHORPE on climate justiceKAREN PACK on LGBTQIA+ InclusionMITCH FORBES on the place of tradition as we move forwardJOEL HOLLIER on being trauma-informedAnd to round it there are a couple of songs at the end from Marion St — you may remember Gabi and Mikali who have previous been on the podcast (if you didn't catch that one go back and listen to those legends). So there is a lot of good stuff jam-packed into this episode. Before we jump in my dear friends, listen up. I'm about to have a couple weeks off after a very big start to the year. Normally I'd line a couple of replay episodes — but as I mentioned last week we are just about to launch a Spiritual Misfits rebrand. And so, here's what's going to happen. For the next 2 or 3 weeks there will be a Spiritual-Misfits-shaped-hole in your podcast player. But make sure you're subscribed — because after that we're going to pop back into your feed with a new look, a new website and plenty of amazing and important new conversations coming your way. Between now and then, hit up our extensive back-log and catch up on any episodes you haven't heard yet. Some recommendations: as we continue to witness and grieve the horrendous genocide the Israeli government is committing in Palestine, can I suggest listening to my friend Sara M. Saleh's episode if you haven't? Or if you want to participate in non-violent love and resistance in this world listen to the episode with Jarrod McKenna. There are so many others I could suggest, but those both feel timely.We'll be back in a few weeks! Until then, big love and remember — you are not alone.   Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello again friends! The last few weeks there's been less of my voice on the pod, which has probably been a refreshing change. However if you proceed with listening to this one, it is my talk from Future Church Conference. Which ironically strongly reinforces the point that you should listen to many voices other than mine. I won't redo my talk in the intro spiel here — but you will hear both my slight discomfort and embrace of the topic I was asked to speak about. Hey, if you've been listening to the podcast for a while, you would have heard me say that this year we are working on some other things to add to the spiritual misfits eco-system.Well, can I tell you my friends that there are some exciting things coming very soon now. We have been doing a Spiritual Misfits rebrand — which is actually kind of the first time we've done proper branding for it. If you look for example at the Spiritual Misfits website or at the podcast cover art you will notice the logo for Meeting Ground Church. You may already know this but in case you're confused Meeting Ground is a small, local church on the Central Coast of NSW of which the podcast emerged from. Obviously though the audience of the podcast goes well beyond Meeting Ground's geography. And as much as I would love to invite every one of you beautiful listeners to be part of Meeting Ground that wouldn't work. However, it is my hope that the podcast can be just one part of a larger work that helps connect people with other people, with different ideas, with avenues for support…so I know it's been a slow burn, because we're also pretty resource limited. However, on the near horizon there will be a new website, with some videos and other resources to help misfits navigate the disorientation that can come with feeling like you're on the fringes. And there will be some other cool things that pop-up there over time. So, be warned. There will come a day soon when you look at your podcast app and the cover art for the podcast is new and beautiful and different.  I can also tease that just around the corner there is a limited series of episodes created in collaboration with very good humans. And I think they are going to be something special. Anyway, that is enough teasing of things. Tell your friends, share the love, join the Facebook group. Enjoy this little talk from Future Church Conference (and follow New City Church on Instagram to make sure you don't miss a pending date announcement about the next one). Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello Spiritual Misfits! This week I have another brilliant talk for you from Future Church conference which happened in January this year. We know the questions and themes we were exploring in the room that day are so pressing for many of us, and so it's great to be able to share these talks with you if you weren't able to join us.  A reminder that there will be another Future Church Conference — and if these talks are wetting your appetite to be in the room if possible, make sure you give New City Church a follow on social media, or drop an email to spiritualmisfits@outlook.com. We will make sure you're in the loop when a date and other details are announced. You can also check out futurechurchcon.com — all these links will be in the show-notes too. This talk you're about to hear is from the brilliant Karen Pack. Karen's topic was ‘The Future Church is…LGBTQIA+ Inclusive' — but as you'll hear this talk actually has much broader applications. Karen weaves aspects of her personal story with a pretty confronting look at how histories are formed and told, and the power there is, in the way we tell the story. As with all of these Future Church conference talks really there are themes explored here that may bring up your own trauma — particularly if you are a queer person who has spent time in religious spaces that did not treat you with the full dignity and acceptance that you do deserve. Karen does touch on themes of suicide. And if this brings anything up for you as you listen, then please reach out for help. You can call lifeline on 13 11 14.  Karen does reference the slides she was using on the day, but she does a fantastic job of explaining what's on those slides, and I think you should be able to follow along without much trouble. Big shout-out to Kaz for this challenging, moving, vulnerable and deeply important message for anyone who finds themselves interested in what the church of tomorrow — and today, looks like.   Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com

Hello good people!In January this year a group of us hosted the first ever Future Church conference. It was a fantastic day — we had people travel from South Australia, Queensland, Victoria…converging in Redfern Town Hall for an exploration of what the church of tomorrow could look like at its most expansive, welcoming and imaginative. We delved into some heavy topics, but it was a really inspiring and wonderful space of connection and possibility. There will be another Future Church Conference — if you want to make sure you don't miss any announcements about that give New City Church a follow on the socials — or even feel free to send an email to spiritualmisfits@outlook.com and we will make sure you're in the loop when a date is announced.In the meantime, I'm going to be playing some of the talks from last time here on the podcast. They were all brilliant, in my opinion, and are well worth sharing around and using as the basis for ongoing conversations.  We were so grateful to be joined by Safina Stewart on the day. Safina is a proud Wuthathi and Mabuiag Island woman who grew up cross culturally in New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and Australia. She is an artist, the Relationships and Storytelling Coordinator at Common Grace, and a brilliant storyteller in her own right. Safina gave a talk at Future Conference called ‘The Future Church is Decolonising'. This was such a powerful and palpable talk to be in the room for. If you couldn't be in the room this recording is absolutely worth listening to! At certain points in the talk Safina used her body to illustrate the points she was making. For example, when she talks about looking back at the past to inform our future she turned away from the audience. Knowing this I'm sure you can imagine those moments as you listen. Are you part of a church that wants to find out more about partnering with Common Grace? Email info@commongrace.org.au  Sign up to our mailing list:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/Join our online Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/spiritualmisfitspodcastSupport the pod:https://spiritualmisfits.com.au/support-us/Send us an email: Spiritualmisfits@outlook.comView all episodes at: https://spiritualmisfits.buzzsprout.com