Podcast appearances and mentions of christian church disciples

What does it mean to be the church in anxious, divided times? Recorded in connection with the 2025 Remind & Renew Conference at Phillips Seminary, Loren Richmond Jr. sits down with Rev. Dr. Susan Diamond to explore how local congregations can become spaces of healing, clarity, and radical welcome. Drawing from her work with moral injury, healing circles, and the Soul Repair After Moral Injury podcast (co-hosted with Dr. Rita Nakashima Brock), Susan shares how churches can recover the spiritual practices that root us in love, courage, and compassion. From forming faith through daily practices to fostering political and theological diversity under a shared mission, she offers a powerful testimony of what it means to be the church for this moment. In this episode, you'll hear: What moral injury is and how it shows up in church, healthcare, and society How healing circles are transforming congregations from the inside out Why forming faith is essential before welcoming or serving others How to foster unity across political differences through mission clarity The role of spiritual direction and communal lament in healing A hopeful vision for the future of Christianity and leadership Rev. Dr. Susan Ward Diamond is the Lead Pastor of Florence Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Florence, Kentucky, where she has served since 2015.  Susan received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Texas Christian University, a Master of Divinity degree from Brite Divinity School, and a Doctor of Ministry degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. Dr. Diamond has invested herself in ministry and mission through local, regional and general expressions of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada, throughout her 33 years of ordained ministry.  She has served on the regional boards of the Florida and Alabama-Northwest Florida regions, directed numerous youth camps and conferences, and served as a keynote speaker of retreats and assemblies around the country.  She has served her denomination as First Vice Moderator for the 2011-2013 biennium of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. During her sabbatical in 2021, Dr. Diamond and Dr. Rita Nakashima Brock collaborated on a pastoral study grant funded by the Louisville Institute entitled Moral Injury: A Catalyst for Reform.  Following the study period, they have continued their work together to offer strategies to faith communities for providing support and healing for those suffering from moral distress and moral injury.  They have recently launched the podcast Soul Repair: After Moral Injury.  Susan and Rita are currently writing a book which they hope to publish soon. Mentioned Resources:

In this week's episode of the Reformed Journal Podcast, the poetry edition, Rose Postma interviews William D. Howden on his poem “Wrapped and Laid.” Howden is an ordained minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Now retired, he lives in San Antonio with his wife, Jan Davis, and their cats. He holds degrees from Milligan University (BA) and Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv and PhD). Bill's essays, sermons and poetry have been published in various journals. He and Jan also produce a free bi-monthly newsletter, Soul Windows: Reflection (www.soulreflection.org).

What if bivocational ministry isn't a compromise—but a key to the church's future? Kris Bentley joins Loren Richmond Jr. to explore the evolving landscape of bivocational ministry in today's church. Drawing on insights from her book Bivocational Ministry: Field Notes for Congregations and Ministers, Kris shares stories from over a decade of research and interviews with pastors and churches engaged in bivocational models. They unpack misconceptions around part-time and bivocational leadership, the surprising benefits of realigned congregational relationships, and how small churches can thrive with the resources they already have. Kris also offers thoughtful guidance for pastors navigating dual roles, denominations rethinking support structures, and seminaries designing education for a changing ministry future. In this episode, you'll learn: Why bivocational ministry is more than a financial necessity—and may be the future of pastoral leadership How redefining expectations can empower lay leaders and revitalize small congregations The difference between part-time, bivocational, and multivocational ministry models Practical tools for pastors and churches navigating role clarity and boundary-setting How seminaries and denominations can better support pastors in flexible ministry pathways   Rev. Dr. Kristen Bentley is an ordained minister with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She has served in congregational ministry in the central Kentucky area for more than twenty years, sometimes in the role of a bivocational pastor. Prior to attending seminary, she worked in higher education administration, serving at both Midway College (now Midway University) and the University of Kentucky. Since 2014 Kris has been working at Lexington Theological Seminary (LTS), beginning when LTS was awarded a grant by Lilly Endowment Inc. as part of its Economic Challenges Facing Future Ministers (ECFFM). She was hired to direct the grant project and as part of that work, Kris initiated research at LTS regarding bivocational ministry. The research concerning bivocational ministry has been supported at LTS through grants from Lilly Endowment Inc., including both Lilly's ECFFM Initiative and later the Thriving in Ministry Initiative. Currently, Kris also is serving as an interim minister of a Disciples of Christ congregation in Kentucky. Kris is an alum of Lexington Theological Seminary, holding a D. Min. (2020) and M.Div. degree (1997) from LTS, as well as a M.S. in Education (1981) from Indiana University, and a B.A. (1979) from the University of Kentucky.  Kris and her husband, Perry, live in the Lexington area.  They have four adult children and three grandchildren.   Relevant Links: Lexington Theological Seminary: https://lextheo.edu/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristen.p.bentley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-bentley-20a60b65/ Chalice Press: https://chalicepress.com/products/bivocational-ministry-field-notes-for-congregations-and-ministers?_pos=2&_sid=0718b64df&_ss=r   Eric Hoke: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-wbbf2-1412bed Jeffrey MacDonald: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-vu5iw-126b98d     Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.  Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro  Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share.   Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

In this episode, Fred interviews Rev. Dr. Casey T. Sigmon, Project Director and architect of Pause/Play: https://www.pauseplaycenter.com Casey is the Assistant Professor of Preaching and Worship and Director of Contextual Education at Saint Paul School of Theology. She is ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). She is a co-founder of TheoTechnics, a team consisting of a theologian, practical theologian, and audio video engineer helping congregations make decisions about implementing technological tools with theological discernment. Casey's first book, Engaging the Gadfly: How to Move from Reactionary to Reflective Hybrid, Online, and In-Person Preaching in the Digital Age comes out later this year!

As the relief, refugee, and development mission fund of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Week of Compassion works with partners to alleviate suffering throughout the world, with a vision of a world where God's people transform suffering into hope. Philippians 4:8-9.

The United States is the wealthiest nation in the world, but millions of its citizens live in poverty. What prevents poor, low-wage, and low-wealth Americans from using democratic government to fight for a fairer distribution of resources? And how can they overcome the structures set against them? The answer is counterintuitive, but it's worked on other social issues in the past.  Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II is president and senior lecturer of Repairers of the Breach, cochair of the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival, and a Charles F. Kettering Foundation senior fellow. He is a bishop with the Fellowship of Affirming Ministries and an executive board member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He is also a professor in the practice of public theology and public policy and founding director of the Center for Public Theology and Public Policy at Yale Divinity School.  https://breachrepairers.org/our-work/moral-fusion-organizing/ 

What role should the church play in today's polarized political landscape? In this episode of the Future Christian Podcast, Martha Tatarnic hosts a roundtable with Loren Richmond Jr., Larry Lin, and Dennis Sanders to explore the intersection of faith and politics. Together, they tackle challenging questions about political engagement, the church's responsibility to marginalized communities, and navigating conversations with those who hold differing views. Topics include the Christian response to polarization, the role of prayer and discernment in political dialogue, and how churches can foster spaces for meaningful connection across ideological divides. They also reflect on the dangers of disengagement, the power of narrative to inspire hope, and the church's unique opportunity to model Christ-like love in contentious times. Larry Lin was born and raised in San Jose, California, and he has degrees from Cornell University and Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Larry has been a pastor for 10 years, and he currently serves as a pastor at Grace Life Church, a non-denominational church in the Baltimore area. Previously, Larry worked for a college ministry in the Washington, D.C. area, as well as for a non-profit called the One America Movement, equipping faith leaders with resources on toxic polarization. Larry enjoys writing about church and politics, doing deep dives on Wikipedia, and making music. Larry lives with his wife and two children in the Mount Washington neighborhood of Baltimore. Dennis Sanders is a Michigan native, a lover of the Detroit Lions and Michigan State Spartans and an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He has degrees from Michigan State University and Luther Seminary. Dennis is currently pastor at First Christian Church in St. Paul, Minnesota and the host of the Church and Main podcast.  He lives in Minneapolis with his husband Daniel.   Relevant Links: https://churchandmain.org/: Church and Main Podcast https://thestateoftheology.com/ - Resource mentioned in the episode    Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.  Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you!   Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

In this milestone 200th episode of the Future Christian Podcast, hosts Loren Richmond Jr. and Martha Tatarnic celebrate with a roundtable discussion on clergy wellness, joined by Brian Davis, and Kinsie Tate. Together, they explore the challenges and opportunities surrounding pastoral health, sharing insights and personal experiences from their diverse backgrounds. The conversation delves into the importance of community, the performative nature of clergy life, and the challenges of burnout and mental health. The panelists share personal experiences and insights on navigating success and failure in ministry, the impact of competition among clergy, and the systemic issues facing the church today. They also discuss practical steps and resources for clergy to support their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being, emphasizing the need for vulnerability and connection in ministry. Rev. Kinsie Tate is the Founder and Executive Director of Restore Clergy, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support clergy with programs that improve wellness to cultivate faithful and sustainable ministry. She is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and has a private practice where she has facilitated growth and transformation for clients for over a decade. She completed her Master of Divinity at Phillips Theological Seminary and was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2007. She served as an associate minister for 3 years prior to returning to complete her Master of Education in Applied Behavioral Studies at Oklahoma City University in 2010. She became a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma in 2012 and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California in 2021. She was certified as a Truce Coach in 2022. She lives in California with her spouse, who is United Methodist Clergy serving in a local congregation, and their 3 school age children.  FB: https://www.facebook.com/restoreclergy/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/restoreclergy/ website: www.restoreclergy.com Brian Davis has been leading worship in the Denver-metro area for the last 25 years and has built relationships with dozens of churches all over the city. Authenticity and empathy have been hallmarks of Brian's leadership, and his intention is to use these attributes to coach other worship leaders and inspire greater creativity and deeper spiritual practice in the local church. Brian has three daughters, and he and his wife, Jess, live in Lakewood, CO. He also serves part-time as the Worship Arts Director at New Denver Church. Insta: https://www.instagram.com/greenroomleaders/ website: https://www.greenroomleaders.com/   Episodes Referenced: Martha Tatarnic: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/why-gather-with-martha-tatarnic/https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-himxq-13e0aa9 Kinsie Tate: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/restore-clergy/ Brian Davis: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/the-pressure-to-perform-as-a-pastor-with-paul-romig-leavitt-and-brian-davis/   Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you!   Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

Laurie Fitz and Rick Bernardo visit with the Rev. Don Dewey, longtime minister, former Regional Minister of the Pacific Southwest Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), and Rick's long ago former Pacific School of Religion classmate in Berkeley. We discuss many changes over the decades in churches’ nature and membership—and re-emerging evils of…

Rev. Teresa Hord Owens, General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) shares about the Covenant Project, which aims to increase participation and decision-making in the church, the Church Narrative Project, which focuses on changing the narrative of the church to be more inclusive and anti-racist, and the Proclamation Project, which equips clergy with preaching resources. She also talks about the importance of data gathering and analysis in understanding the state of the denomination. Hord Owens also highlights the importance of theological diversity, staying together at the table, and the need for moral and theological grounding in political engagement. Finally, she emphasizes the role of imagination, the importance of spiritual practice and Bible study, and why we need a more connected church that leverages its resources to do good in the world. Rev. Teresa “Terri” Hord Owens is the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She is the first person of color and second woman to lead the denomination, and the first woman of African descent to lead a mainline denomination. Elected in 2017, Rev. Hord Owens was re-elected to a second term as General Minister and President in 2023. Her ministry actively reflects the Disciples' priority of being an anti-racist church, being a movement for wholeness, welcoming all to the Lord's table as God has welcomed us. Her exhortation to the church is “Let's be the church we say we are. It is in being who we say we are that we actively bear witness to God's limitless love for all.” Rev. Hord Owens earned her bachelor's degree from Harvard University and her MDiv from the University of Chicago Divinity School, where she subsequently served as Dean of Students for 12 years. Rev. Hord Owens' resume includes more than 20 years of leadership in corporate America leading diverse teams in data management. She serves on the National Council of Churches as the Treasurer of the Governing Board and is a member of the World Council of Churches Central Committee.   Relevant Links http://disciples.org/      https://disciples.org/ogmp/ David Anderson Hooker on the power of narrative   Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.   Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Guest Host / Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Executive Producer Danny Burton - Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer    

Witnessing the war in Gaza can make us feel hopeless and like there's nothing we can do. Dr. Peter Makari (he/him), a Global Relations Minister for the Middle East and Europe, shares with us today a message of hope, justice, and peace. He offers important background information in relationships in the Middle East and lifts up voices of Palestinian partners who are on the ground doing important work. Peter reminds us to recall Jesus' message of "who is my neighbor" and how that neighbor is not just the person next door, but our global neighbor as well. This is an important conversation and we hope it encourages you to utilize the links below to continue learning and connecting, and turning hope into action.About PeterDr. Peter E. Makari (he/him), PhD, serves as Global Relations Minister for the Middle East and Europe with the Common Global Ministries Board of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a position he has held since July 1, 2000.He serves on the National Council of Churches' Interreligious Convening Table, of which he is a co-convener, and has been an active participant in national Jewish-Christian and Muslim-Christian dialogue initiatives.  He represents the UCC and Disciples on the Faith Forum for Middle East Policy, of which he is a co-convener, and on the board of Churches for Middle East Peace.  He also represents the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) on the Steering and Executive Committees of the Shoulder to Shoulder Campaign.An Egyptian-American, Peter has lived in the Middle East, where he worked with the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services (CEOSS) in Cairo, Egypt (1991-1994), and then with the Middle East Council of Churches, based in Limassol, Cyprus (1997-2000). Peter earned an M.A. in Middle East Studies from the American University in Cairo (1993) and a Ph.D. in Politics and Middle East Studies from New York University (2003).  He is the author of Conflict and Cooperation: Christian-Muslim Relations in Contemporary Egypt (Syracuse University Press, 2007).Peter is a member of West Park United Church of Christ in Cleveland, OH.Important Links to Learn MoreGlobal Ministries' Middle East and Europe Homepage: https://www.globalministries.org/regions/mee/Resources, including recommended reading (under “Bookshelf”): https://www.globalministries.org/resource/mee_resources_index/Our UCC and Disciples response page to the current crisis in the Middle East: https://www.globalministries.org/the-disciples-and-ucc-address-the-crisis-in-the-middle-east/Connect with us!Sign up to receive a little Gospel in your inbox every Monday Morning with our weekly devotional.Check out our website for various resources - including devotionals, journaling prompts, and even curriculumGet some Lady Preacher Podcast swag!Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook

In Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: A Practical Theology of Multiracial Experiences (Orbis, 2023), Aizaiah G. Yong critically considers how the lives and spiritual experiences of mixed-race people can transform efforts for racial justice across the planet. Yong is inspired by the life and philosophy of Raimon Panikkar, a twentieth-century interreligious spiritual leader whose own experiences of the world were foundationally shaped by his life as a mixed-race person. This book focuses on the experiences of mixed-race people and challenges practical theology to broaden its own attention to practices of spirituality beyond mono-racial paradigms. Mixed-race people have profound resources for confronting and healing from racism and racial oppression within their lives and their stories, and this book demonstrates calls for strengthened collective efforts to tend to the beautiful depths of spiritual formation for mixed-race people. Rev. Aizaiah G. Yong (Ph.D., Practical Theology, Claremont School of Theology) serves as Assistant Professor of Spirituality at the Claremont School of Theology in Southern California, USA. He is an ordained Pentecostal Christian minister within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a recognized facilitator in the Compassion Practice and an Internal Family Systems Practitioner. Growing up in a multiracial and immigrant family, he is committed to sustaining transformational and collective efforts that address ongoing realities of social oppression with presence, passion, and peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: A Practical Theology of Multiracial Experiences (Orbis, 2023), Aizaiah G. Yong critically considers how the lives and spiritual experiences of mixed-race people can transform efforts for racial justice across the planet. Yong is inspired by the life and philosophy of Raimon Panikkar, a twentieth-century interreligious spiritual leader whose own experiences of the world were foundationally shaped by his life as a mixed-race person. This book focuses on the experiences of mixed-race people and challenges practical theology to broaden its own attention to practices of spirituality beyond mono-racial paradigms. Mixed-race people have profound resources for confronting and healing from racism and racial oppression within their lives and their stories, and this book demonstrates calls for strengthened collective efforts to tend to the beautiful depths of spiritual formation for mixed-race people. Rev. Aizaiah G. Yong (Ph.D., Practical Theology, Claremont School of Theology) serves as Assistant Professor of Spirituality at the Claremont School of Theology in Southern California, USA. He is an ordained Pentecostal Christian minister within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a recognized facilitator in the Compassion Practice and an Internal Family Systems Practitioner. Growing up in a multiracial and immigrant family, he is committed to sustaining transformational and collective efforts that address ongoing realities of social oppression with presence, passion, and peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

In Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: A Practical Theology of Multiracial Experiences (Orbis, 2023), Aizaiah G. Yong critically considers how the lives and spiritual experiences of mixed-race people can transform efforts for racial justice across the planet. Yong is inspired by the life and philosophy of Raimon Panikkar, a twentieth-century interreligious spiritual leader whose own experiences of the world were foundationally shaped by his life as a mixed-race person. This book focuses on the experiences of mixed-race people and challenges practical theology to broaden its own attention to practices of spirituality beyond mono-racial paradigms. Mixed-race people have profound resources for confronting and healing from racism and racial oppression within their lives and their stories, and this book demonstrates calls for strengthened collective efforts to tend to the beautiful depths of spiritual formation for mixed-race people. Rev. Aizaiah G. Yong (Ph.D., Practical Theology, Claremont School of Theology) serves as Assistant Professor of Spirituality at the Claremont School of Theology in Southern California, USA. He is an ordained Pentecostal Christian minister within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a recognized facilitator in the Compassion Practice and an Internal Family Systems Practitioner. Growing up in a multiracial and immigrant family, he is committed to sustaining transformational and collective efforts that address ongoing realities of social oppression with presence, passion, and peace. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rev. Aizaiah G. Yong (Ph.D., Practical Theology, Claremont School of Theology) serves as Assistant Professor of Spirituality at the Claremont School of Theology in Southern California, USA. He is an ordained Pentecostal Christian minister within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a recognized facilitator in the Compassion Practice and an Internal Family Systems Practitioner. Growing up in a multiracial and immigrant family, he is committed to sustaining transformational and collective efforts that address ongoing realities of social oppression with presence, passion, and peace. Multiracial Cosmotheandrism: https://orbisbooks.com/products/working-title-multiracial-cosmotheandrism-a-practical-theology-of-multiraciality-inspired-by-the-life-philosophy-and-mysticism-of-raimon-panikkar-tentative Sacred Writes: https://www.sacred-writes.org/acls-cohort-winter-2024 Spirited Renewal: https://www.spiritedrenewal.org/

Pastoral ministry seems harder than ever. Data shows pastors are increasingly feeling burnt out while churches are also less inclined to want to change. What is a stressed pastor to do? In this episode, recorded at Phillips Theological Seminary during the Remind and Renew conference, Kinsie Tate, a licensed counselor and founder of Restore Clergy, discusses the challenges clergy face, including burnout exacerbated by the pandemic, and the common stress responses of competing, avoiding, and accommodating. She emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and resilience for clergy to effectively address personal and systemic issues. Tate also reflects on the limitations of virtual interactions for connection, the alignment of beliefs with lived experiences, and the necessity for clergy to process emotions healthily. She advocates for intentional reflection, community support, and the potential for positive change and hope within the church. Rev. Kinsie Tate is the Founder and Executive Director of Restore Clergy, a nonprofit organization whose mission is to support clergy with programs that improve wellness to cultivate faithful and sustainable ministry. She is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and has a private practice where she has facilitated growth and transformation for clients for over a decade. She completed her Master of Divinity at Phillips Theological Seminary and was ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 2007. She served as an associate minister for 3 years prior to returning to complete her Master of Education in Applied Behavioral Studies at Oklahoma City University in 2010. She became a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma in 2012 and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in California in 2021. She was certified as a Truce Coach in 2022. She lives in California with her spouse, who is United Methodist Clergy serving in a local congregation, and their 3 school age children.    FB: https://www.facebook.com/restoreclergy/  Insta: https://www.instagram.com/restoreclergy/  website: www.restoreclergy.com    Scott Thumma episode: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/understanding-the-impact-of-societal-changes-on-congregational-dynamics-insights-from-dr-scott-thumma/   Irie Lynn Session episode: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/womanist-ministry-dr-irie-session-talks-preaching-the-black-church-tradition-and-womanist-theology/   Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.

In this episode, Rev. Dr. Irie Lynne Session, co-pastor of The Gathering Experience, a Womanist church in Texas, joins the show to talk about Womanism and how it has profoundly influenced her interpretation of scripture and her methodology in preaching. Recorded at Phillips Theological Seminary during the Remind and Renew conference, Dr. Irie discusses her transition from Churches of Christ to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), her spiritual practices, and her calling to ministry. She highlights how womanism has shaped her approach to scripture, informed her theological perspective, and shaped her preaching. She also tells the story of the founding of her church, which emphasizes Womanist preaching and theology within the Black religious tradition. Rev. Dr. Irie Lynne Session was raised in New York City, and now resides in Cedar Hill, Texas a suburb of Dallas. She's the proud mother of India Liana Session. Dr. Irie holds a B.S. in Social Work from Oklahoma Christian University, an M.Div. with a Certificate in Black Church Studies from Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Colgate Rochester Crozier Divinity School, specializing in Transformative Leadership and Prophetic Preaching. She's an ordained minister with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and CEO of DreamBIG Coaching & Consulting. Dr. Irie is currently the Co-Pastor of The Gathering, A Womanist Church in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Irie is co-author of, The Gathering, A Womanist Church: Origins, Stories, Sermons, & Litanies. She is also author of Badass Women of the Bible and, Murdered Souls, Resurrected Lives. Her latest Journal article is titled, “Sawubona in a Pandemic: Black Women, Embodied Ecclesiology, and Sacred Spaces in Cyberspace.” Facebook: @revdririe IG: Revdririe / SheRev_Style Twitter: @revdririe   Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.  

Looking back and ahead with the President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

Historically, the church has a tendency to colonize as a means to achieve growth. To break that dynamic, new models need to emerge. Enter DisciplesNEXT, a methodology from Rev. Dr. Jose Martinez and the New Church Ministry Team of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). In this conversation, we talk about how the model emerged, how it seeks to be different from previous models, and what are the "ecclesial minimums" or "faithful marks" of what it means to be a church. He also emphasizes the importance of deep listening, dialogue, and considering diverse community inputs in shaping the future of the church. Rev. Dr. Jose Martinez serves as the Minister for New Church Strategies for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Jose also created a ministry as an Incubate participant with the National Benevolent Association called StoryWagen. Additionally, he is co-planter of Multi Nation Christian Church, which is the largest and only Haitian Ministry in the Midwest for the Disciples of Christ and along with planting MissioKC Church. Co-vocationally, he is an endorsed Protestant Chaplain, at the 139th Airlift Wing in St. Joseph, Missouri and a chaplain with Truman Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri. He has served in different capacities in ministry from the regional level to local congregations by bringing innovative and entrepreneurial ideas about the shifting paradigm of church. His mixture of talent, tenacity, and experience has helped him in all contexts of ministry, which was recognized by the Air National Guard in 2016 by awarding him the Samuel Stone award.   https://newchurchministry.org/introducing-impact/ https://newchurchministry.org/about/disciplesnext/   Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.    

"I feel like black women have been, and always will be, the closest approximation of Jesus Christ's salvific work, in our lives." Shantell Hinton Hill is an engineer, pastor, and poet that centers her justice work around Black Feminism(s) and Womanism. She tells stories of finding her voice and the way black women in her life have uplifted, empowered, and resurrected her. Now it is her goal to live out this empowering work and way of life. Shantell connects this work with the women of the Bible who were unnamed, voiceless, yet acted in faith and power. She describes how Black feminism(s) and Womanism point out the way intersectional oppressions may be operating throughout scripture. We hear one of her breathtaking poems from her book, “Black girl magic and other elixirs,” which problematizes how Christians think of suffering, death, and crucifixion. We finish by hearing about the voices who have shaped Shantell's Black feminism(s), her faith, and her writing, as well as encouragement for those who don't know what to do with their faith in the face of all the suffering in our world. Guest's Full Bio: Shantell Hinton Hill is the ultimate Renaissance woman. An engineer turned pastor, Shantell situates her work at the intersections of social justice, public theology, and Black feminism/womanism. A native of Conway, Arkansas, Shantell is married to Rev. Jeremy Hill. They recently welcomed their first child, Sophie June, to their growing family. Shantell obtained a Master of Divinity from Vanderbilt Divinity School. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Colorado State University. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and the National Society of Black Engineers. She is also an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Her vocational experiences include work as a Process Control Engineer, a Bible teacher, and as Assistant University Chaplain at Vanderbilt University. Shantell's Book: “Black girl magic and other elixirs”: https://www.shantellhhill.com/shopShantell's Website: https://www.shantellhhill.com/Shantell's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shantellhhill/ and Love, Auntie: https://www.instagrSupport the showFollow us for more ✨bad✨ content: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calledtobebad_podcast/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calledtobebad Website: https://calledtobebad.buzzsprout.com/ Want to become part of the ✨baddie✨ community? Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/calledtobebad Have a ✨bad✨ topic you want to talk about on the show? Get in touch with host, Mariah Martin at: calledtobebad@gmail.com #ctbb #podcast #podcastersoffacebook ...

Geoff Mitchell joins the pod to discuss his experiences in leading and guiding churches, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination. Geoff emphasizes the importance of creating vibrant and transformative churches that are deeply rooted in the power of the gospel. He also explores the unique aspects of leading churches within this denomination and how they contribute to the overall mission of spreading the message of Christ. Geoff Mitchell is Senior Minister at Lindenwood Christian Church, where his goal is to help people discover a life that does more than leave them exhausted and disillusioned. A native of Kentucky, Geoff grew up on the Mississippi River in Keokuk, Iowa. He spent 13 years in Texas, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Master of Divinity from Texas Christian University. He is currently working on his dissertation to complete to his Doctor of Ministry.  He has served churches in Fort Worth and Keokuk. He has also started two new congregations, in Aledo, Texas and suburban Chicago. As a note to listeners, this episode was recorded live, in person at the conference hall of the General Assembly of the Christian Church, Disciples of Christ. The Future Christian Podcast is a production of Torn Curtain Arts and Resonate Media.   Future Christian is supported by: Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.

In this special episode of the Future Christian Podcast, recorded live from the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Loren Richmond Jr is joined by guest Dennis Sanders to delve into the current state of the denomination and the unique challenges faced by local congregations. Together, they explore the pressing need to support and sustain existing congregations, recognizing the vital role they play in today's society. The discussion also delves into recent updates to the denomination's bylaws, highlighting the importance of staying informed and engaged with the evolving landscape of the church. Dennis and Loren also touch on the topic of incorporating pop songs into worship services, examining the potential benefits and challenges of bridging contemporary culture with traditional practices. They emphasize the significance of prayer and theology in guiding congregations towards a deeper understanding of their faith and the role of the church in advancing the gospel. Throughout the conversation, the importance of dialogue, relationships, and understanding is underscored as essential tools for navigating divisive issues within the church. Loren expresses his concern about declining numbers and the need for a compelling narrative to revitalize the denomination, sparking a thought-provoking reflection on the future of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). The Future Christian Podcast is a production of Torn Curtain Arts and Resonate Media.   Future Christian is supported by: Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.    Supporting Sponsors: I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian' Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.

SOREN LIT: A Southern Renaissance literary journal... for storytellers with connections to the south. We showcase writers and artists who are women, femme-identifying, and/or non-binary creatives. The SOREN LIT podcast provides interviews, readings, and art reviews from our latest writers and artists. The podcast is hosted by SOREN LIT Founding Editor, Melodie J. Rodgers. SOREN LIT's published work and podcast episodes are also available on the official website: www.sorenlit.com SOREN LIT. 2023. YANI DAVIS Iyana “YaNi” Davis, is a graduate of Claremont School of Theology with her Masters of Divinity. Rev. YaNi received her B.A. from Spelman College, with an English degree. YaNi has always been passionate about the impact of words, storytelling, truth-telling  and the therapeutic nature of writing one's words and sharing one's story.YaNi believes firmly in our power as storytellers and sets this example everyday of her life as a coach, creative and community leader.Rev. YaNi, is a minister with The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and has been a featured speaker, poet and teaching-artist around the United States, throughoutEurope and across Asia. YaNi uses her words wisely as a Hip Hop artist, an inspiring speaker, an effective educator, a profound poet, a modern day prophet and griot. She has shared the stage with top performers, theologians, creatives, and healers around the world, an honor that she does not take lightly. YaNi is the founder of, My SupaNatural Life, an organization that provides education and wholistic care for people living with disabilities and their caregivers.YaNi has founded several spiritual communities/churches around the country, is the author of, Love Poems for Peace, is a kidney transplant survivor and near completion of a second masters (Professional Studies-Business of Art and Design) via MarylandInstitute College of Art. YaNi is the essence of peace personified! SOREN LIT...A Southern Renaissance of women, femmes, and/or non-binary creatives exploring the lingering South... www.sorenlit.com SOREN LIT Editor & Producer: Melodie J. Rodgers, MFA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sorenlit Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sorenlit/ --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melodie-rodgers/message

What about our culture actively produces lonely, angry, and isolated white men? This week we discuss the dynamic we often don't talk about - the manufacturing white supremacy, toxic masculinity, and an American-hypercapitalist image. We are joined by special guest, chaplain Bentley Stewart to explore how we can challenge the "loneliness epidemic" bred from whiteness and capitalism and work towards a world where community and equality are keys to our collective connection and healing.   Bentley Stewart and his wife live in St. Petersburg, Florida and he has two adult sons. Currently, he serves as the chaplain of St. Joseph's Children's Hospital. Previously, Bentley pastored Christian Church of Vacaville, California for four years. Before that, he worked as a chaplain for people experiencing homelessness, planted a church, managed co-curricular activities for ministers in formation with Disciples Seminary Foundation. In his decade of hospital ministry, Bentley pursued interests in pediatrics, palliative care, clinical ethics, inter-professional communication, and cultural bridging. He is ordained by the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is endorsed as a chaplain by Disciples Home Mission, and serves as one of the denomination's anti-racism trainers. Bentley holds a BA from Flagler College and an MDiv from the University of Redlands Graduate School of Theology, home of San Francisco Theological Seminary. 

We're taking you to church this week y'all! Jennifer, Taylor and Cheryle examine the patriarchy and the power dynamics that are present in the Black church. They share their thoughts on the current state of the Black church and what they would like to see change. Then we're joined by Rev. Terri Hord Owens, the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. She talks about her experience as the first person of color and second woman to lead the denomination.

What is the independent Christian Church? How are independent Christian churches related to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)?

It's common to equate meaning with depth, but the surface of things, with its wild and rapturous beauty, can coax us into life. GUEST Stephanie Paulsell is the Susan Shallcross Swartz Professor of the Practice of Christian Studies in the Harvard Divinity School and served as the Interim Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church from 2019 to 2020. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she is the author of Religion Around Virginia Woolf, (2019), editor (with David Carrasco and Mara Willard) of Goodness and the Literary Imagination (2019), and a regular columnist in The Christian Century.   SHOW DESCRIPTION Making Meaning is a limited series from Ministry of Ideas that explores how life can be lived more meaningfully. Featuring meditations by some of the world's most sensitive and insightful thinkers, Making Meaning will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to live with greater intention and fullness.  Making Meaning is produced by Jack Pombriant and Zachary Davis. Artwork by Dan Pecci. Learn more at ministryofideas.org and find us on Twitter @ministryofideas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's common to equate meaning with depth, but the surface of things, with its wild and rapturous beauty, can coax us into life. GUEST Stephanie Paulsell is the Susan Shallcross Swartz Professor of the Practice of Christian Studies in the Harvard Divinity School and served as the Interim Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church from 2019 to 2020. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she is the author of Religion Around Virginia Woolf, (2019), editor (with David Carrasco and Mara Willard) of Goodness and the Literary Imagination (2019), and a regular columnist in The Christian Century.   SHOW DESCRIPTION Making Meaning is a limited series from Ministry of Ideas that explores how life can be lived more meaningfully. Featuring meditations by some of the world's most sensitive and insightful thinkers, Making Meaning will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to live with greater intention and fullness.  Making Meaning is produced by Jack Pombriant and Zachary Davis. Artwork by Dan Pecci. Learn more at ministryofideas.org and find us on Twitter @ministryofideas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

It's common to equate meaning with depth, but the surface of things, with its wild and rapturous beauty, can coax us into life. GUEST Stephanie Paulsell is the Susan Shallcross Swartz Professor of the Practice of Christian Studies in the Harvard Divinity School and served as the Interim Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church from 2019 to 2020. An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she is the author of Religion Around Virginia Woolf, (2019), editor (with David Carrasco and Mara Willard) of Goodness and the Literary Imagination (2019), and a regular columnist in The Christian Century.   SHOW DESCRIPTION Making Meaning is a limited series from Ministry of Ideas that explores how life can be lived more meaningfully. Featuring meditations by some of the world's most sensitive and insightful thinkers, Making Meaning will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to live with greater intention and fullness.  Making Meaning is produced by Jack Pombriant and Zachary Davis. Artwork by Dan Pecci. Learn more at ministryofideas.org and find us on Twitter @ministryofideas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology

The Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund's mission is to partner with others to share hope and healing. She is an ordained minister in both the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ.  Sarah has served as pastor to churches in Brooklyn, NY, Minneapolis, MN, and New Smyrna Beach, FL. Sarah served as Regional Minister in the Florida Conference of the United Church of Christ and as a Vice President for Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, IN. She holds degrees from Trinity University (BA), Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv), Rutgers University (MSW), and McCormick Theological Seminary (DMin). Sarah received the Dell Award for Mental Health Education at the 30th General Synod of the UCC. Sarah currently serves as Minister for Disabilities and Mental Health Justice on the national staff of the UCC and as senior pastor of First Congregational UCC of Indianapolis, IN. She volunteers on the national boards of Pathways to Promise, Mental Health America, Bethany Fellows, and Piedmont University. In January of 2022, Sarah joined two US Department of Health and Human Services national Think Tanks, the first about faith communities and suicide, and the second Think Tank about faith communities and youth mental health. Sarah is the author of several books about mental health: Blessed are the Crazy: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness, Family, and Church (2014), Blessed Union: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness and Marriage (2021), and Blessed Youth: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness with Children and Teens (2022), and a pocket-sized mental health resource book for youth: Blessed Youth Survival Guide (2022). Sarah blogs at www.sarahgriffithlund.com.

The Rev. Dr. Sarah Lund's mission is to partner with others to share hope and healing. She is an ordained minister in both the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and the United Church of Christ.  Sarah has served as pastor to churches in Brooklyn, NY, Minneapolis, MN, and New Smyrna Beach, FL. Sarah served as Regional Minister in the Florida Conference of the United Church of Christ and as a Vice President for Christian Theological Seminary in Indianapolis, IN. She holds degrees from Trinity University (BA), Princeton Theological Seminary (MDiv), Rutgers University (MSW), and McCormick Theological Seminary (DMin). Sarah received the Dell Award for Mental Health Education at the 30th General Synod of the UCC. Sarah currently serves as Minister for Disabilities and Mental Health Justice on the national staff of the UCC and as senior pastor of First Congregational UCC of Indianapolis, IN. She volunteers on the national boards of Pathways to Promise, Mental Health America, Bethany Fellows, and Piedmont University. In January of 2022, Sarah joined two US Department of Health and Human Services national Think Tanks, the first about faith communities and suicide, and the second Think Tank about faith communities and youth mental health. Sarah is the author of several books about mental health: Blessed are the Crazy: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness, Family, and Church (2014), Blessed Union: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness and Marriage (2021), and Blessed Youth: Breaking the Silence About Mental Illness with Children and Teens (2022), and a pocket-sized mental health resource book for youth: Blessed Youth Survival Guide (2022). Sarah blogs at www.sarahgriffithlund.com.

So your church is struggling and maintaining an aging building is no longer feasible. What do you do next? Pastor Dennis Sanders shares about his own church's experience navigating this difficult decision. Dennis shares how the conversation started, what was the tipping point, liturgies for leaving, and what they plan to do with the proceeds. Through it all, Dennis shares why keeps him hopeful for his church and why they still want to try. A native of Flint, Michigan, Dennis is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He received his bachelor's in journalism from Michigan State University and his master's of divinity from Luther Seminary.  He's been a communications professional working for various nonprofits for over 20 years. From 2008 until 2013 he was the Associate Pastor at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Minneapolis.  Since 2013, he's been the Pastor at First Christian Church of St. Paul in Roseville, MN . He lives in Minneapolis with his husband, Daniel. The Future Christian Podcast is a production of Torn Curtain Arts and Resonate Media.  

What a blessing to be with our friend, Jolin Wilks McElroy for a holiday conversation on art and spirituality. Jolin and Armin first met in the 1990s while working together at the art materials and frame store of Good's of Evanston. During her time working at Good's led Jolin to rethink her calling as a artist and pursue another path to attend a theological seminary for a Masters in Divinity. Here is her bio in more detail: Jolin Wilks McElroy has been Pastor at First Christian Church in Charlotte since July of 2000. During her tenure there, she has watched the congregation grow into presence in the Charlotte and Dilworth communities–branching out into service through the Dilworth Soup Kitchen, supporting many missions and outreach groups, and providing a meeting place for classes and events. She has also rejoiced as this church has been transformed by other cultural groups joining the congregation. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree from Colorado State University in 1990, Jolin Wilks intended to paint for a living. The call to ministry challenged her to consider a new direction for her life. In 1995 she enrolled at Lexington Theological Seminary and received her Masters in Divinity in 1999. Rev. McElroy still finds some time to draw and paint while also serving the church in more traditional ways. In addition to gallery shows and auctions, First Christian Church has a display of her pastel portraits of church members lining the walls of the education building. Another exhibit, Holy Communion, a series of watercolor portraits of Disciples of Christ members and leaders, began traveling the denomination since the Fall of 2004. Because of her dual vocations of art and ministry, she has been a desired speaker on the topic of creativity and spirituality for retreats and workshops. One significant endeavor was sketching portraits of 33 children of two Head Start programs for the benefit of their families, sponsored by The Craddock Center in Cherry Log, Georgia. Prior to accepting the call to her current position, Rev. McElroy served as: Associate Minister to First Christian Church, Falls Church, VA (1998-2000); Chaplain Intern at St. Elizabeths Hospital in Washington, DC (summer of 1998); and Pastor of First Christian Church, Carlisle KY (1995-1998). In addition to her work at First Christian, Rev. McElroy has been active in the life of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) at the regional level, and was the recipient of a Clergy Renewal Grant from The Lilly Endowment in 2004. Other organizations in which Rev. McElroy has been active include: Charlotte Clergy Coalition for Justice (CCCJ) 2014 – present, Crisis Assistance Ministry (2002-present); United Family Services (2001-2006); General Board of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in North Carolina (2001-05); North Carolina Regional Commission on Faith and Understanding (2001-02). Born in Iowa City, IA, Jolin Wilks McElroy was raised in Mt. Prospect, IL, where her parents Alan and Irvana Wilks still reside. Rev. McElroy currently lives in Charlotte, NC, with her husba​​​​nd Tom and their young son. We are honored that Jolin joined us for episode 39 of our podcast. During the interview you will hear her quote Frederick Buechner: “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet.” Art and ministry fulfill that for her. Thank you very much, Jolin! First Christian Church of Charlotte, North Carolina Artist Makoto Fujimura Art + Faith by Makoto Fujimura Registration is open for Art Ladders Virtual Winter term classes being taught by Val and Armin.

I first met our guest today out of the blue on Facebook about four years ago.  I was looking for some leadership coaching for the congregation I serve and he offered to help and help he surely did.  Alex Ruth has been a congregational leader for years.  In 2021 he was called to become the Associate Regional Minister for Transformation in the Illinois-Wisconsin Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) after years of serving in parish ministry, the most recent in Missouri.  Alex is also the Associate Director for Disciples Men and teaches with the Center for Ministry and Lay Training at Phillips Theological Seminary in Tulsa, Oklahoma.In our time together we talk about his call to help clergy and congregations respond to a changing culture.  Surprisingly we also spend some time talking about neurodiversity and the church.  Neurodiversity is a topic that is near and dear to my heart since I am on the autism spectrum and I've been diagnosed with ADHD.  Thanks for reading Church and Main! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit churchandmain.substack.com

Many of us grew up thinking our bodies and sex were sinful. We were told not to trust them. The theology that accompanied that message was very authoritarian and we were made to feel not worthy. Where is Jesus in that message? Kara and Reverend Beverly Dale talk about a sex positive God and how God can be a God of pleasure. Reverend Beverly Dale is a published writer, vocalist, and performer, in addition to being an ordained minister. Her ministry has taken her from being a pastor in a Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) parish in Illinois for 6 years to 21 years of campus ministry at the University of Pennsylvania. She is presently the founder and chair of the Incarnation Institute for Sex & Faith, an educational non-profit that teaches an inclusive, science-friendly and sex-positive Christianity. Her ministry has a very specific and unique focus: to help people of faith heal from the sexual wounding that occurs when they are taught to separate the spirit from the body, and also to provide tools for those who are developing a Christian theology that affirms the body and pleasure as God-given. She is the co-author of Advancing Sexual Health for the Christian Client: Data and Dogma.   www.beverlydale.org

This week, Gabe and Whitney answer a question they get asked a lot as ministers ...What is the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)?We are sharing some history, our personal experiences, and the things we love most about our denomination and the church we call home. 

Interview with Rev. Whittney IjanatenWelcome, all to another exciting episode! You're gonna want to listen to this with your partner as you work through creating your ceremony! Rev. Whittney Ijanaten is the owner and lead officiant of "Rev. I, do Officiating" based in Los Angeles CA. She is an internationally ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) where she specializes in affirming ALL LOVE forms, to include but not be limited to, LGBTQ+, interfaith, and non-religious nuptials. Rev. Whittney received her Masters of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary which has enabled her to offer an array of services that span from ceremony officiating, premarital counseling, and pastoral care and direction.IG @revido_officiatingConsultations: www.revidoofficiating.com Engaged?? Check out our Wedding Packages & Rates here: www.jjtheweddingplannerco.com

As churches become unable to fund full-time ministry mainline denominations are starting to notice and have begun offering ideas in how to pastors can find outside work. One idea is taking part in social entrepreneurship. What is social entrepreneurship? One way it's been defined is from the Faith and Leadership website from Duke Seminary . They define it as “the process of pursuing innovative solutions to social problems. For Christian leaders, this blending of a business model with Christian mission can be a valuable tool to help sustain an organization while at the same time bearing witness to the reign of God.” That sounds exciting! But is it really? Loren Richmond Jr. doesn't think so. Loren is a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) and he has his own misgivings when it comes to using social entrepreneurship as a way to help fund bi-vocational ministry. Loren is also the host of the Future Christian podcast and he and I talk about this new endeavor and why it might not be the best way to supplement part time ministry. Stick around for the end of the podcast when Dennis remembers the actor Nichelle Nichols of Star Trek fame who died on July 30 at the age of 89.   ChurchandMain.org 

Weekend Edition for July 30-31, 2022 #OTD #1517 #churchhistory — SHOW NOTES are available: https://www.1517.org/podcasts/the-christian-history-almanac GIVE BACK: Support the work of 1517 today CONTACT: CHA@1517.org SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts Spotify Stitcher Overcast Google Play FOLLOW US: Facebook Twitter Audio production by Christopher Gillespie (gillespie.media).

On this week's episode, Greg sits down with Reverend Lori Tapia. Lori is an author, speaker, church planter, and National Pastor for Hispanic Ministries for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Connect with Lori: http://www.pastorloritapia.com/ https://www.facebook.com/pastoralori https://www.instagram.com/pastoralori Connect with Greg: https://www.stadiachurchplanting.org https://www.gregnettle.com/thechurchplantingpodcast https://www.facebook.com/gnettle/ https://www.instagram.com/nettleg1  

In April 2017, the Congregational Board of Country Club Christian Church called Rev. Carla Aday as the church's eighth Senior Minister. Rev. Aday has served the church since 1988 in various capacities, most recently as the Executive Minister in charge of administration, finance and stewardship in addition to preaching, teaching and planning. As the Senior Associate Minister from 2004-2014, her responsibilities included developing mission partnerships, adult spiritual formation, leadership development, ministry planning and staff supervision. When she was hired in 1988, she was the church's first female minister. Rev. Aday holds a Masters of Divinity degree from Yale University where she was honored with the Mersick Prize for effective public address and preaching. She is an experienced teacher and trainer, holding licensing and certification with various curricula. She has led 20 mission trips both internationally and domestically, including trips to Nicaragua and India. She is a member of the Association of Disciples Pastors in Theological Dialogue, past member of Clergy Spiritual Direction, and has previously served on the Administrative Committee and General Board for the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), as Moderator of Greater Kansas City Region of the Christian Church, on the Homeland Ministries Board, as a board member of the Girl Scouts – Mid America Chapter, and as a member of the MORE2 Clergy Caucus. She has served as a volunteer at Della Lamb Community Services, Argentine Middle School, Notre Dame de Sion School, Habitat for Humanity, and Marillac Center for Children. In 2017 she spent one month as a volunteer at Mediterranean Hope, a project working to address the dramatic refugee migration by sea from North Africa, sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East towards Italy. Rev. Aday was the recipient an Eli Lilly Clergy Renewal Grant for a 2002 sabbatical program in Great Britain, has conducted independent study in theology with professors from Yale Divinity School and St. Paul School of Theology, has competed a writing course with Yale Divinity School, and has written and contributed to numerous publications. Rev. Aday and her husband Dr. Dave Ehman have three adult children, Connor Ehman, Kyle Ehman, Karmen Ehman Major, and five grandchildren.

We bring back Geoff Mitchell pastor of Lindenwood Christian Church in Memphis to talk about the future of his denomination, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Show Notes: Last year's interview with Geoff  Dennis' recent solo episode on the future of the Disciples  Lindenwood Christian Church website  Covenant Project- A New denominational initiative to modernize the church

DESCRIPTIONIt's common to equate meaning with depth, but the surface of things, with its wild and rapturous beauty, can coax us into life.GUESTStephanie Paulsell is the Susan Shallcross Swartz Professor of the Practice of Christian Studies in the Harvard Divinity School and served as the Interim Pusey Minister in the Memorial Church from 2019 to 2020.  An ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), she is the author of  Religion Around Virginia Woolf, (2019), editor (with David Carrasco and Mara Willard) of Goodness and the Literary Imagination (2019), and a regular columnist in The Christian Century.  SHOW DESCRIPTIONMaking Meaning is a limited series from Ministry of Ideas that explores how life can be lived more meaningfully. Featuring meditations by some of the world's most sensitive and insightful thinkers, Making Meaning will give you fresh perspective and encouragement to live with greater intention and fullness. Making Meaning is produced by Jack Pombriant and Zachary Davis. Artwork by Dan Pecci. Learn more at ministryofideas.org and find us on Twitter @ministryofideas.

Terri Hord Owens, general minister and president of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), talks with Word&Way President Brian Kaylor about her experiences in leading a Mainline Protestant denomination today. She also discusses racism, COVID, and communion. Note: Don't forget to check out our subscriber e-newsletter A Public Witness that helps you make sense of faith, culture, and politics.

Chloe Specht is an example of what can develop from a hard place of spiritual trauma.  Raised in an ultra-conservative denomination, from a family of ministers, Chloe talks about her personal journey and the obstacles she had to overcome. You will feel empowered after hearing my chat with Chloe.Chloe Specht is a pastor's-kid-turned-exvangelical from North Carolina.  She is a writer and theologian working at the intersections of queerness, disability, and progressive spirituality.  She holds a Master of Divinity and is a candidate for pastoral ordination in The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).  I must say here that I am pretty sure I said the wrong denomination in this episode, but please overlook my mistake.  It is Disciples of Christ.  To connect with Chloe:chloespect.comInstagram @chloejspechtTwitter @chloejspechtDon't forget that I would really appreciate you supporting the expenses of this show with a small monthly donation of only $5!  I will give you a shout-out on the podcast and a personal email to say thanks.To connect with me on Instagram, visit here.Free Support Group:  Christian Rainbow GroupFree Support Group:  Christian Parents of LGBTQ+ ChildrenRainbow Journey Club (Monthly Club for LGBTQ+)Rainbow Parent Club (Monthly Club for parents of LGBTQ+ Children)Church Trauma Package (1-1, 6-week coaching for LGBTQ+)Coaching for the Parent of a LGBTQ+ Child of any ageBoundary Setting 101: Single Coaching SessionBrand New Digital Course (low intro price) Boundary Setting 101Support the show with a $5 gift.To visit my website and get all my freebies, visit here.Visit www.jkeithbrown.com and look at the top of the landing page to grab your FREE copy of this .pdf worksheet. Then, simply go through the steps and you will be better interpreting Scripture immediately. If you need more help, consider joining one of my Rainbow Champions group coaching journey. I think we all suffer stress in the crazy days. I wanted to offer you a FREE copy of my Create Your Calm guided meditation. Just click HERE to grab your copy.

One of the best takes on Mainline Protestantism are recent converts to Mainline Protestantism from evangelical backgrounds. They are able to see things about that church that people on the inside can't see. Today, we are talking to Loren Richmond, Jr. a pastor in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) which is my denomination. A few months back he wrote an article on his substack called “Yoyos and Mainline churches.” We use a little physics to talk about how churches respond to members and how they reach out beyond the church. website: enroutepodcast.org Leave a Review: https://ratethispodcast.com/churchandmain YouTube: https://bit.ly/enrouteyt Show Notes: Yoyos and Mainline Churches by Loren Richmond Jr. Future Christian Podcast - Loren's Podcast  Support the Show! https://pod.fan/en-route-journeys-in-faith-and-modern-life

“Just because you can't see the air doesn't keep you from breathing. And just because you can't see God doesn't keep you from believing.”...And just because it's Christmas doesn't mean that we don't have an all new Two On One with the General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), The Rev. Terri Hord Owens! Merry Christmas, Deuces!#recordedbeforesabbatical #takeyourrest #sabbath #sabbatical #hope #advent #progressiveclergy #Christmas #love #church #twoononeproject #queerclergy #faith #lgbtqia #holidays #jesus #santa #god #podcast #movies #joy #music #gospel #the90s #WhitneyHouston #Denzel #DenzelWashington #denzelwashington #whitneyhouston #thepreacherswife #preachers #preacherswife #christmas #christmas2021 #christmasmusic #christmasmovie #christmasmovies #angels #angelsamongus #angelsofabundance #dudley #pennymarshall #courtneybvance #jenniferlewisExclusive Deal for Our Deuces! Make ordinary time EXTRAORDINARY with the exclusive code TWOONONE15 for 15% off your stole order!Support the show (https://cash.app/$TwoOnOneProject)

I've known Geoffrey Kabaservice since we were both writers for David Frum's news site, Frum Forum. Today Geoffrey is the Vice President of Political Studies at the Niskanen Center and host of the Vital Center Podcast. He's an author, especially in for our purposes of the book Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of Moderation and the Destruction of the Republican Party, from Eisenhower to the Tea Party. I brought him on the podcast today to talk about the intersection of two important streams of 20th century American culture, Moderate Republicanism and Mainline Protestantism. Both of these movements drove much of American society and now they are both weakened. We will look at what has been lost as both institutions decline. We'll also focus on one person where these two streams meet: J. Irwin Miller, the CEO of Cummins Engine, a Rockefeller Republican and a member of a mainline denomination, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He was also a corporate titan that invested in his hometown of Columbus, Indiana that allowed it to prosper when other Rust Belt towns withered. If you are someone who is interested in American political and social history, you will love this episode. website: enroutepodcast.org Leave a Review: https://ratethispodcast.com/churchandmain YouTube: https://bit.ly/enrouteyt Show Notes: Geoffrey Kabaservice's Niskanen Center profile The Rust Belt Didn't Have to Happen by Aaron Renn (on J. Irwin Miller) The Vital Center Podcast Support the Show!  

Welcome to Because We Love U. A podcast dedicated to helping you live a life of wellness. In this episode, co-hosts Stacy Lipowski, Ph. D., and Jade Breeback, MHS PA-C, interview Rev. Dr. Joe Blosser and Dr. Allie Blosser about why giving matters and how to give more responsibly. Rev. Dr. Joe Blosser is the Executive Director of the Center for Community Engagement and Associate Professor of Religion and Philosophy at High Point University. He received his Ph.D. in Religious Ethics from the University of Chicago, M.Div. at Vanderbilt University, and his B.S. at Texas Christian University. He is an ordained minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). He joined the HPU faculty in 2011 after teaching at the University of Chicago and DePaul University. He primarily teaches Business Ethics, Educational Ethics, Christian Theology, and Civic Responsibility and Social Innovation. Joe is highly involved in the High Point Community of North Carolina. He helped get the High Point Schools Partnership going, and serves on the Board for the Guilford Education Alliance. He also helped found and later served as chair of the board for the Greater High Point Food Alliance. He served for six years on the Board and as the Grants Committee Chair for the High Point Community Foundation, and he serves on the advisory boards for the Community Clinic of High Point, Open Door Ministries, and more. He was awarded the “Spirit of Advocacy” by the United Way of Greater High Point in 2015, named the “Community Partner of the Year” for Communities in Schools in 2018, was recognized by Triad Business as one of our community's 40-under-40, and was the inaugural recipient of the Spirit of High Point University Award in 2018. He currently serves on the NC Commission for Volunteerism and Community Service. Dr. Allie Blosser is Assistant Professor of Education in the Leadership Studies Department, as well as an Honors Faculty Fellow at High Point University. She holds a PhD in Cultural and Educational Policy Studies from Loyola University Chicago, an MA from Michigan State University and a BA from Texas Christian University. She primarily teaches Education and Society, Diversity in Education, Qualitative Inquiry, and Culturally Relevant Pedagogy. Allie is actively involved in serving her surrounding community. She serves on the Board of Directors for several organizations in the High Point/Greensboro, North Carolina area such as Ready for School, Ready for Life, the Enrichment Fund for Guilford County Schools, the National Conference for Community and Justice, and Congresswoman Kathy Manning's Military Academy Nomination Committee. She also researches and publishes on university/community partnerships, is a 2021 NC Educational Policy Fellow, and in 2020 was awarded the Spirit of High Point University Award. Joe and Allie have two children, Seth and Beatrice. The Blosser family resides in High Point, North Carolina. Connect with Because We Love U at the following links: Access Show Notes Follow on Instagram Follow on Facebook Subscribe on YouTube Subscribe on Spotify Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Google Podcasts

In this episode Chaplain Annie is dying to know what you do when someone you have a complex relationship with, dies before you've reconciled? So she speaks with Reverend Kerry Kesey who was raised by hippy parents, yes, she is related to Ken Kesey author of "One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest" and infamous Merry Prankster, Kerry's father, Dale, was on the infamous bus Further and as a child, her family lived on the Kesey farm commune. They lived in a bus, and even in tents in Northern Idaho while her parents tried to build a log cabin. She had her 3rd birthday at Woodstock.Though her childhood may seem like a fun dreamland for many folks, Kerry wanted to follow a very different path from her hippy parents. Her grandmother in Arkansas always brought her to church, and the stability there drew her to Jesus and the Church. So she felt called into ministry, graduating from Northwest Christian University in Eugene, Oregon with a B.S. in Church, Society and Family.  She then attended Lexington Theological Seminary, receiving her Masters in Divinity in 1999 and was ordained as a minister in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).  Like her nomadic parents, she has served churches in Oregon, Texas, Kentucky, Kansas, Washington and Hawaii, and just recently began a ministry with the First Christian Church Fayette in Missouri.Kerry's hippy mother died suddenly in 2018.