Podcasts about church abuse

An encore presentation of our most popular episode ever, and maybe our most powerful! And wow, it's more needed and timely than ever. We talk about one of the two deadliest teachings in all of humanity. It is at the heart of our division.  It is responsible for some of history's most brutal treatment of ethnic groups, religious groups, women, LGBTQ; and it is rampant right now. What is it and what can we do?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Introducing Credible Witness, a new podcast produced by Mark Labberton and the Rethinking Church Initiative. In this episode of Conversing, Mark features the full premiere episode of Credible Witness, and is joined by host Nikki Toyama-Szeto and historian Jemar Tisby. Exploring how Christian witness to the gospel of Christ has become compromised—and what might restore its credibility. Reflecting on five years of candid, challenging conversation among diverse Christian leaders during the wake of George Floyd's murder and rising Christian nationalism, the three discuss the soul-searching, disillusionment, and hope that emerged. Together, they examine the cultural fractures, theological tensions, and moral failures that have pushed many to extremes, elevating strident voices as an increased number of people to leave the church. They articulate the mission and vision of Credible Witness, testify to a persistent hope in Jesus and the power of honest community, face painful truths, and imagine a church that more truly reflects the love, justice, and mercy of God. Key Moments “We absolutely get that… but we're still on board with Jesus. And Jesus has always been with us and hasn't left us.” “This isn't about leaving Jesus. This is about following Jesus.” “We've got a better story to tell.” “It was the church that was putting the church at risk.” “The church has a reputation in the United States… and not a good one by and large.” About the Guests Nikki Toyama-Szeto is the host of Credible Witness, and is executive director of Christians for Social Action, equipping the church to pursue justice and follow Jesus in the tension of our times. Jemar Tisby is the author of The Color of Compromise and How to Fight Racism, and founder of The Witness: A Black Christian Collective. He is the host of Pass the Mic. Show Notes “This isn't about leaving Jesus. This is about following Jesus.” —Jemar Tisby Nikki introduces Credible Witness as a space for honest stories of faith amid moral complexity and social tension Mark recalls the origins of the conversation in summer 2020: COVID-19, George Floyd, church division, and racial injustice Jemar Tisby clarifies the mission for imagining a more credible Christian witness Nikki reflects on trust-building in a space that welcomed “tricky truths” and honesty without pretense The group's five-year journey begins as a short experiment but grows into a lasting community of deep discernment “We weren't trying to replicate any harm.” —Jemar Tisby The group names white Christian nationalism and silence on injustice as threats to the church's credibility Ephesians 2 and the power of “coming together of the unlikes” as a witness to the resurrection “It was the church that was putting the gospel at risk.” —Mark Labberton Nikki explains how church neutrality began to speak volumes: “Choosing silence was actually a loud voice.” Discussion on the failure of integrity: “Too many things in isolation” eroded credibility Jemar highlights story as central to public theology: “We've got a better story to tell.” The group wrestles with algorithmic distortion and toxic digital narratives shaping Christian identity “Not just message, but embodiment”: The church's credibility depends on lived ethics, not just theological claims Mark emphasizes self-examination: “Are we credible?” Dissonance and disagreement as gifts: “What kept people in the room was the gift of dissonance.” —Nikki Toyama-Szeto Jemar recalls moments of tension over how to prioritize justice issues while remaining unified in Christ The group's diversity as a deliberate strategy: different traditions, backgrounds, and responsibilities within the church Nikki names divine timing: the conversation is more urgent now than when it began “We're not all supposed to be the same... That's how everything gets covered.” —Jemar Tisby Mark frames the church's failure as internal implosion—not external threat “Why is the church seemingly so unchanged?” —Mark Labberton Nikki describes how marginalized voices carry wisdom for the way forward Jemar articulates the podcast's goal: a mirror and a window for listeners to see both themselves and the larger church Nikki closes with an invitation to slow down and listen generously: “Pull up a chair...” Production Credits Conversing is produced and distributed in partnership with Comment Magazine and Fuller Seminary.

Do you feel a bit powerless? Overwhelmed? Exhausted? There are lots of ways this disempowerment can show up. It's important to practice finding your power, because the truth is, we STILL have our power. It's beautiful and it's limitless.  Beloved, today, I have three stories for you about taking your power back!It's time!Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We know you see it. We know you feel it. Social media is being used more and more as a tool for radicalization. Extremists exploit platforms to spew propaganda and recruit followers. Beloved, it is easy for individuals to fall prey to manipulation.Fake news has become a real threat, affecting everything from our health to our relationships to our institutions. The very features that make social media so powerful, are also what can make it so dangerous.Today, we want to talk about how to spot fake news and misinformation, and how to stop sharing it, so we can help stop it from hurting people. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

In this powerful episode, Christian counselor and author Leslie Vernick joins Elizabeth to unpack the realities of church abuse and destructive relationships. They explore how spiritual manipulation twists Scripture, the difference between godly submission and toxic control, and how to set biblical boundaries without guilt. Leslie offers hope, wisdom, and practical tools for those navigating unhealthy dynamics, reminding listeners that honoring God sometimes means saying no.

I recently had a session of hypnotherapy and I want to share with you because it was so empowering for me and I think it can empower you too. In fact, I asked the Universe, Spirit for a message JUST for you (because I'm always thinking of you!) and you know what?  I got one! You're gonna love this. I'm eager to share it all with you. Let's do this.  Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We've been through a lot of deconstruction, many of us, and have been finding a lot of freedom. It's so easy to look outside ourselves, and point at what needs to change in the world — and no doubt it does! I would bet that virtually every person listening is wanting to help rebuild the world into better shape than it is right now. But how can we do selfcare in all of this? How can we stay positive? This may look different because the problems may seem so big, insurmountable, but that's even MORE reason to make our own changes, not less.There is a way to shift US that can shift the whole. A way to regain our power to create something more than we thought was possible.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

In this episode, hosts Larry and Brandon interview Chris Marchand, an Anglican priest and podcaster, to discuss his podcast 'Wall of Silence,' which tackles sexual abuse within the ACNA (Anglican Church of North America). The conversation delves into the origins and purpose of the podcast, abuse in church settings, and the challenges faced by victims and advocates when addressing such issues. The episode also touches on the broader cultural implications and the resistance often encountered when trying to bring these dark truths to light.   00:00 Introduction to Chris Marchand   00:43 The Wall of Silence Podcast   01:03 Five Seconds of Silence   01:40 Background on the ACNA   02:36 Starting the Wall of Silence   04:02 Challenges in Addressing Abuse   09:13 Personal Reflections and Conflicts   13:01 Concluding Remarks and Next Episode Preview   smarticlepodcast@gmail.com   @Smarticleshow  @BDDoble @larryolson threads.net/@smarticleshow @brand.dobes The Smarticle Podcast  https://www.smarticlepodcast.com/ #chrismarchand #thewallofsilencepodcast #thewallofsilence #smarticlepodcast #ACNAToo #ACNA

We hear this question a lot lately: How do we Save America? Whispered in grief and shouted in frustration. From parents afraid for their trans kids, from exhausted teachers, from faith leaders trying to hold shattered communities together. We hear it from the hearts of people who love this country—not so much for what it has been, but for what it could be.Saving America is not about taking it back. It's about bringing it forward. Into love. Into justice. Into healing. Where do we begin?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Just Rob today - in time for Father's Day - with a very special episode talking to Dads. But this is good for all parents, for LGBTQ+ kids, for allies. It helps us better understand and support. So, Dads, your child is gay or bisexual or transgender. Your love for your child seems to somehow conflict with your faith - at least according to what you may hear from Christian friends.Like it or not, you are on this journey. What do you do? What kind of Dad will you be?This is NOT a choice for your child. YOU are the one who has the choice - to unconditionally love, accept and affirm your child, or not.  I am the father of five children, two of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community. In this encore episode, I share three real responses from other Dads. And I ask you to think about which one is the most like you?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

June is Pride Month—a time dedicated not just to parades and rainbow flags but to profound affirmation and resistance against discrimination.The skewed Christian view of pride involves a self-centered attitude, placing oneself above others and, most critically, above God. But the LGBTQ+ community is not declaring themselves above anyone else.Pride Month was born from a necessity to stand against oppression and claim a rightful place in society—not out of a desire to dominate but a need to exist openly and safely. It's about love, not arrogance.Today, we share an encore presentation about what Pride really is and how it's a powerful expression of love's triumph over shame. It's a celebration – not a sin!Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Surviving and Healing from Satanic Ritual Abuse: A Family's JourneyIn this emotionally charged episode of Discovering Truth, Dan is joined by Emily, Amanda and Andrea, three sisters and survivors of Satanic ritual abuse and government projects.They open up about their traumatic pasts involving abuse from their grandfather, who was a Hitler Youth and involved in severe forms of trauma programming, as well as the horrifying use of church facilities for abusive practices.The sisters discuss how they support each other through their healing journeys and the profound spiritual and emotional dynamics of living together despite their shared traumatic history.This episode sheds light on the reality of mind control, the intricacies of their bloodline, and the ongoing healing they are embracing together.Covered in this episode:Surviving Satanic Ritual AbuseLiving Together After TraumaCommunication and Healing StrategiesFamily Bloodline and AncestryGrandfather's Dark LegacyChurch and Government AbuseUnveiling the Baptism AreaSunday Morning Rituals and Family InvolvementSecret Tunnels and Different ProgramsMemories of Abuse and Church InfiltrationFreemason Influence and Church ConstructionGrandfather's Role in Abuse and Advanced TechnologyAlternate Personalities and Their RolesAnd much more

I know you feel it. So much fear. So much worry. We see it everywhere, we see it in our own family.Many are considering whether to stay in their state, or even stay in the country. Or whether it is time to go.We asked several people we respect in this community about the topic and their answers could not be more varied.Beloved, what is the right thing to do for your own safety, for those you love, for the communities you care about?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Your child says, “Mom, I'm Gay!”You want to shove those words back in and put the lid on. But you can't. Your child is gay or bisexual or transgender. This goes against everything you've been taught. It was not what you had in mind, and you instantly wonder where you went wrong.When you become a parent, you know to expect the unexpected. But for many Christian parents, nothing can prepare them to hear this from their child. I invite you to sit down, relax, maybe get a cup of tea, and soak in what we talk about today. My hope is to guide you as we walk for a bit through this maze of confusion, to help you find your way to wholeness.Whether you have been on this journey for days or decades, this is a wonderful episode for you. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We heard from a Mom who loves her daughter but does not accept her being gay, understanding but not really understanding, embracing but letting her daughter know she does not approve.And this Mom could not understand why that was wrong, and why her heart need to be set free.She represents many on this journey of deconstruction who are in limbo – so overwhelmed by the voices coming from the church, Christian friends, old false teachings, that they cannot hear the still small voice of Spirit. What is this Mom supposed to do? Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

#podcast #church #trauma 20% off plus a FREE rechargeable frother and glass beaker with my exclusive link: https://www.Piquelife.com/INSANE At just 13 years old, Alicia found herself in a relationship with her 34-year-old Sunday school teacher, after enduring years of abuse. When their relationship was exposed, she was ostracized—kicked out of her church and relentlessly bullied at school. Today, Alicia has turned her painful past into a powerful force for healing. As an art therapist and counselor, she now specializes in helping others work through grief and trauma, using her own journey to inspire and guide those who are struggling.Alicia's Links:Book: https://www.amazon.com/Artful-Grieving-Directives-Creatively-Bereavement/dp/1805013696/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=1GKKUCAP28K23&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aZuo2-dcsP-_RsIsnb9yh5ig1RWsKt_LhxuqzvTmnS81-NI6pIel5t6y46vDQzj6.IjhhJAYglHKZe5TNUQyC6Qf_YzX0NJ7DwEhXOBu4WTA&dib_tag=se&keywords=artful+grieving&qid=1746968413&sprefix=artful+grieving%2Caps%2C136&sr=8-1Website: www.artfulgrieving.comIG: @artfulgrievingTIMESTAMPS00;02;12;28: What's it like being abused by a grandparent?00;03;32;05 Do children draw pictures of abuse?00;10;16;03 How does it feel having to see your abuser?00;12;22;09 What are trauma/abuse flashbacks like?00;16;08;24 Do abusers share explicit material? 00;27;05;29 How does grooming work?00;36;45;16 How do predators behave when they're not afraid?00;39;11;08 Do abusers get confident?00;42;13;17 What happens when people find out someone has been abused?00;46;24;25 What's it like being a victim who doesn't get sympathy?00;47;10;05 What happens when a child goes on the internet too young?00;49;52;22 How do predators make themselves sound when grooming?00;52;52;11 What's it like when your abuser dies?00;53;59;23 Are there child marriages in the United States?01;01;19;18 What's it like when your husband goes to  prison?01;06;05;09 What is a trauma bond?01;07;06;29 What is it like picking your husband up from prison? 01;14;07;06 What's it like when your abuser dies?01;24;15;16 Do hospitals always report abuse?Topics: Grooming, Childhood Trauma, Church Abuse, Religious Trauma, Trauma Therapy

This week, I'm joined by Julie Anne Smith, the voice behind The Spiritual Sounding Board, a blog dedicated to exposing church abuse and shedding light on the harmful effects of patriarchy, particularly for women. Julie Anne shares her personal experience with biblical counseling and how it left her feeling injured. Together, we explore the ways in which the church can perpetuate toxic dynamics and how we can work toward healing and accountability.

Surviving and Healing from Satanic Ritual Abuse: A Family's JourneyIn this emotionally charged episode of Discovering Truth, Dan is joined by Emily, Amanda, and Andrea, three sisters and survivors of Satanic ritual abuse and government projects.They open up about their traumatic pasts involving abuse from their grandfather, who was a Hitler Youth and involved in severe forms of trauma programming, as well as the horrifying use of church facilities for abusive practices.The sisters discuss how they support each other through their healing journeys and the profound spiritual and emotional dynamics of living together despite their shared traumatic history.This episode sheds light on the reality of mind control, the intricacies of their bloodline, and the ongoing healing they are embracing together.Covered in this episode:Surviving Satanic Ritual AbuseLiving Together After TraumaCommunication and Healing StrategiesFamily Bloodline and AncestryGrandfather's Dark LegacyChurch and Government AbuseUnveiling the Baptism AreaSunday Morning Rituals and Family InvolvementSecret Tunnels and Different ProgramsConfrontation and Discovery of PornographyMemories of Abuse and Church InfiltrationFreemason Influence and Church ConstructionGrandfather's Role in Abuse and Advanced TechnologyAlternate Personalities and Their RolesAnd much more

With all that has been going on to attack, condemn, and erase our precious transgender community, we thought it was the perfect time for this. In this very special, intimate episode, we share something that came from a mom of transgender daughter.She wrote it for her pastor, for anyone, who is trying to sort out transgender, gender nonconforming, nonbinary—trying to understand what transgender people and their families go through.This is an incredibly powerful story. It is beautifully written and conveys so well the heart of what it is to parent a transgender child.An encore presentation, perfect for all that is happening today.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Today, we continue to focus on the transgender community with an encore broadcast of a very popular FreedHearts Podcast episode from January 2022. Our trans children, family members and friends are beautiful. And beloved. Living their authentic lives.Oh my goodness, that is an amazing truth. Amazing stories. Amazing beauty. False teachings, binary thinking, denial can cause us to miss it all – and cause great harm to those we love.With all that has been going on, it is the perfect time for this episode. “Don't Deny the Beauty of Being Transgender!”Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Christians mistakenly suggest that if you take the Bible seriously, you must stand against the existence – as well as the health and even humanity of transgender people.Actually, the OPPOSITE is true!In this episode, we talk about how the Bible AFFIRMS transgender and gender non-conforming people. And, how misinterpretations and binary thinking cause people to follow false teachings that are causing so much harm, especially today! A special encore presentation of one of our most popular episodes ever about the transgender community. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Today we are talking about the sticky subject of spiritual abuse in the church. To lead us on the journey is Rachael Clinton Chen. Rachael is devoted to addressing the harm of abuse – especially spiritual abuse – at the intersection of trauma, healing, embodiment and spiritual formation. She leads the Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing and recently developed the Allender Center's Spiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course, inviting survivors of spiritual abuse to journey together towards healing and reclamation.RESOURCES:Find out more about the Allender Center at the Seattle School of Theology and Psychology with a link to their podcast  HERESpiritual Abuse & Healing Online Course -  This six-lesson course, complete with reflective practices and deep dive panel discussions, helps you engage your body, mind, and spirit as you unpack the harm caused by spiritual abuse.Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing - Our mission at The Allender Center is rooted in the belief that our stories are best understood and healed when we share them with others. We're honored to introduce the new Story Workshop for Spiritual Abuse & Healing—an immersive experience designed to guide you through the complex process of healing from religious trauma and spiritual harm and reclaiming your faith. This is a three day virtual workshop held May 16-18, including large group teaching and small group story work with a seasoned facilitator. Free Checklist: How to identify the signs of spiritual abuseContact Cyndi Parker through Narrative of Place.Join Cyndi Parker's  Patreon Team!

These past few months have resulted in some deep wounds – often from people that are, or used to be very close to us. We have been told that we should not hold a grudge, that we should let go of everything. But I think we are missing a bigger truth. Could it be that it's good to hold a grudge?We don't want to walk around with resentment, or unforgiveness, because that only hurts us, as we know. So, how could holding a grudge be a positive thing?Maybe it's about remembering what someone did to you, or did to someone you love—versus pretending nothing happened. For the purpose of protecting yourself in the future. The idea is that you don't just forget harmful things people do. Beloved, there's deep wisdom in that. There is a real balance in all of this and in today's powerful episode, we talk all about it.   Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Jesus and Christianity and Church.  We link those three together but the truth is that to do so has no basis in history, no basis in theology, certainly no basis in today's non-affirming, rules-based, behavior-focused, hyper-political religion.Jesus is a great mascot. But Beloved, it's a bait and switch!Jesus would be considered unChristian by the Christian church. And the church would be considered unChristlike by Jesus.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We get caught up in social media. Doomscrolling, fear scrolling, just scrolling to find a glimmer of hope and good news.  We all know the feeling: you see something infuriating and, before you can stop yourself, you're pounding the keys, firing off a post that will change the world, or at least change someone's mind.  Anyone else do that? But, honestly, here's the thing: posting on social media probably won't change things as much as we hope. So, why doesn't it work, and what can we do instead?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

On this deconstruction journey, we have unclobbered the Scripture that is falsely taught to condemn LGBTQ+ and same-sex relationships. We have exposed false teachings that are used for religious manipulation. And we recently addressed the big one: the myth and false teaching of hell!It's a lot, and it rattles the core of our theology – but in the most wonderful way. We opened the box we had God in and all heaven broke loose! Beloved, have you ever wondered… Are we sure?? Can we be certain about our beliefs?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Has the world gone crazy? Has this country gone crazy? Feels like it for sure. Do you feel like maybe you're crazy busy, stressed and overwhelmed? Yeah, me too. We talked about everything that is happening – the news and developments we are being bombarded with.  Coming at us so fast it's hard to process it all. Which we pointed out is by design.And all the gaslighting when we confront things out and fight back. Maddening.  Let's talk about how to handle so much happening so fast -- how to process it and how to best deal with it as much as possible, so we can be more effective in our resistance and our response, while not losing our hope and joy. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Beloved, hear me: You are not imagining things!When you see executive orders, policies, rollbacks, hate-filled rhetoric, & you feel that gut-punch of fear — it's real. When your heart aches because you see rights stripped away, protections dismantled, & lives put at risk — it's not in your head.And yet, when we speak up, we are dismissed, laughed at, and told that we are overreacting. It's a deliberate attempt to make you doubt what you know to be true, to keep you silent, to stop you from resisting. It's gaslighting. Pure and simple. We are recognizing it and naming it – and we will not be discouraged or impacted by it!Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We wake up to news, breaking stories happen throughout the day, the barrage of executive orders and developments seem never-ending. It can easily be overwhelming. Anybody feel that way?Beloved, that actually may be their goal.Today, we talk about what is happening in our country right now, how it's making us feel, and what we can do about all of this to not lose hope, to care for ourselves and to care for those we love. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Move From toxicity to trust, healing, and renewed faith.   Host Curtis Chang and Mike Cosper, creator of "The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill" investigate the unsettling realities of church abuse and the unchecked authority that breeds toxicity within faith communities. Drawing from his latest book, "The Church in Dark Times," Cosper discusses the urgent need for accountability in evangelical settings, using the Mars Hill case as a poignant example. Curtis and Mike explore the intersection of leadership and emotional and spiritual abuse to help us all discover pathways to healing and rebuilding trust in the aftermath of betrayal. Don't miss this insightful conversation on the dynamics of power and the importance of safeguarding church values.   Send written questions or voice memos for “Ask Curtis” episodes to: askcurtis@redeemingbabel.org   Get a 25% discount when you buy The Art of Disagreeing by Gavin Ortland at thegoodbook.com with code: GOODFAITH   Resources from this episode: Mike Cosper's The Church in Dark Times Listen to The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill Paul Petry's Joyful Exiles blog Mike Cosper's Land of My Sojourn Learn more about Hannah Arendt Hannah Arendt on Adolf Eichmann for the New Yorker: part 1 & part 2 Kant's Argument for Radical Evil by Stephen R. Grimm (pdf) Hannah Arendt's The Origins of Totalitarianism Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: Don't Despair, God Isolates You for a Reason Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: How to Deal With Dark Times Listen to Dr. Timothy Keller: Counter-Culture for the Common Good More From Mike Cosper: Books by Mike Cosper HERE Listen to Mike on The Bulletin Listen to Devil and the Deep Blue Sea Follow Mike's Instagram Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up:  Redeeming Babel Newsletter

We recently came through the holidays. Has anyone ever been uninvited to a family gathering? We have. Well, Spring is coming, maybe you have a wedding on the calendar?So, today, we flip the script and talk about YOUR special events… a birthday celebration, wedding, family reunion, graduation. And we ask the questions: Are there people we HAVE to invite?  How do we handle that and how do we balance it all with selfcare?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

How much do you have to listen to someone who wants to tell you how to live and what you're doing wrong, and if you'd just follow their advice you'd be good? Not much! Have you heard the phrase “iron sharpens iron” as a justification for someone telling you everything that is wrong with you?Or have you ever been part of a religious “accountability” group? Same thing -- someone who feels that they have the duty to tell you what you should be doing. Social media bickering, trolling, bullying — the freedom strangers feel to reply in all caps to someone they don't know — on an issue they don't know — is all part of this narrative.You deserve the truth. Your heart deserves to be freed from the myth and dangers of "Christian accountability." Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Beloved, last week we talked about the myth and false teaching of hell and how we have been so terrorized by it. That and other false teachings cause us to think and believe the most awful things about ourselves. Things that are just not true!Today, we tell you some true things… about you. Jesus said for us to love our neighbor AS WE LOVE OURSELVES. The most important freedom is freedom from your own self-judgment – so we can love and accept ourselves unconditionally and fully and lavishly – so we can love our neighbor the same way.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

According to religion, there are certain beliefs, certain parts of theology, that are not even debatable. Why?? Maybe because they pose the greatest threat to the power system of the church. That's why when you even question it – you are immediately called a heretic. Or worse. We have addressed many of these and will continue to do that moving forward. Today, we want to get into hell… wait, let me rephrase that… we want to talk about the myth of hell. Yes beloved, it's a myth!The idea of a hell is absolutely vital to the teaching of contempt, the fear used by religion to manipulate us, and people are terrorized!! We deconstruct this false teaching to free our hearts to love and be loved. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

We have talked about reclaiming our power, our hope, and not surrendering to doomscrolling or fearscrolling narratives. Today, we go deeper and press the conversation around fear - to bring us freedom. We don't want to live our lives afraid. There's no life in that. Fear is not the place to make our best choices. We know that. Fear IS helpful when we really are under threat. But we can't live from there. The constant stress, the cortisol your body shoots through us to deal with fear, will wreck us. In a time of so much fear, what do we do?  Could fear actually be a gift??Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

No one knows you better than you.No one knows who you are and the journey you have been on better than you. So, why do so many people not believe you when you tell them?  Why do they think they know you better than you know yourself, telling you that you are confused, or just plain wrong?Let's talk about how to move forward when you are disbelieved, gaslighted, and treated with contempt.Beloved, you deserve to be believed about who you are!Period. End of story. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Content warning: This episode discusses sexual, spiritual, and domestic abuse. Should discussions of the church harming people be kept in-house so the world doesn't hear about it? No, says Diane Langberg, and there's a simple reason why: “That would be quite unlike Jesus Christ.” Listen in as Langberg, an international speaker, psychologist, and author on trauma care, joins Moore to discuss her new book, When the Church Harms God's People. Their conversation covers abuse in institutions and considers why it is different when those institutions are churches. They talk about the importance of churches and homes as havens from harm and how it affects people when they become places of hurt.  Moore and Langberg consider power dynamics, the importance of language that properly names the abuses people have suffered, and a Christian view of women. They provide reason for hope and opportunities for church leaders to love and care for the hurting. Resources mentioned in this episode or recommended by the guest include: Diane Langberg When the Church Harms God's People: Becoming Faith Communities That Resist Abuse, Pursue Truth, and Care for the Wounded by Diane Langberg Abuse of Faith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today, we cover some basic faith-related questions: Why are churches so against transgender people? Are we wrong to support them? Does God ask us to support trans people in our community?Are we just listening to false doctrine? You know what false doctrine is? It's manmade religion parading as requirements from God. It's traditions of men that line the pockets of the leaders but leave everyone else, especially the vulnerable out to dry!Our transgender friends, family and loved ones are hurting right now and we need to speak up, stand up, come alongside them, and sometimes step in front to take some of the arrows coming their way. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

The election is over. One person was elected President and one was not. Half the country is elated and half is distraught. We knew that whatever the outcome, some would be thrilled and some would be devastated. We've heard from LGBTQ+ people who are in deep despair, in existential fear. And we've heard from parents who are confused, saying, “My child is so angry with me. They will no longer even speak to me.” They are bewildered as to why this would be true. We have always known about the deep divide in families, and this election, far from solving anything, only seems to have deepened the fracture.Many are overwhelmingly afraid and unspeakably angry at those who voted a certain way. And family members are bewildered.Let's talk about this today. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

This is our first episode since the election, and we know many of you are reeling right now, wondering what's ahead. We have heard from so many of you. You may feel afraid, terrified, dazed, confused - not even sure where to start to make sense of life right now, and how to move forward.So, let's talk about that today.We are going to talk about fear, grief, what's next… and never, ever losing hope. And always remembering that we are loved, beloved, and that we are not alone. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

A close ally of Boris Johnson and open critic of Rishi Sunak and Kemi Badenoch, Nadine Dorries examines the current state of the Conservative Party in this week's episode of the Political Fourcast - and she also criticises the Church of England in the wake of the John Smyth scandal. Warning: This episode contains content that some viewers might find upsetting.   Mrs Dorries says she was abused as a child by a vicar. A Church of England spokesperson said: “We are truly sorry for the childhood abuse suffered by Nadine Dorries.  “We can confirm that the National Safeguarding Team has been in ongoing contact with her following her brave disclosure of this abuse by an Anglican vicar, now deceased.  “We have offered support and have left open the offer to speak further if she wants to do so. We are sorry that when the matter first came to the Church's attention in 2015 that she did not experience the response she should have received.” The Conservative Party was approached for comment.   Produced by Silvia Maresca, Calum Fraser, Ka Yee Mak, Rob Thomson.  

buse so often warps our sense of self and our sense of who God is. How do you lose the lies and rediscover your faith? Author and adventurer Ryan George joins Juli to talk about how he disentangled the manipulation and abuse of his past and discovered who God really is.     Guest: Ryan George     Ryan's Website: explorience.org Ryan's Instagram: @ryplane   Book: Hurt and Healed by the Church by Ryan George   Java with Juli with Dr. Juli Slattery – Christian Discussions on Marriage, Sex and Singleness.

Being a cultural Christian used to be an insult, but more people are embracing the label with pride. The Holy Post crew unpacks what's behind the growing affection for cultural Christianity, and they explain why it's more important than ever to embrace the weird, supernatural beliefs of the faith. Historian Kristen Kobes Du Mez is back to discuss her new documentary, “For Our Daughters,” about the sexual abuse scandals that have shaken the faith of many in the church. She sees a link between the theology and culture that created and covered-up sexual abuse in the church, and the rise of political idolatry within evangelicalism. Also this week—hurricanes are now political, and a Haitian pastor in New Hampshire with a sense of humor invites pets to his church.   For Our Daughters Full Documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IkES4X_qb6c   Holy Post Plus: Getting Schooled: Debt and Theology 101 https://www.patreon.com/posts/113616129/   0:00 - Intro   1:18 - Show Starts   3:24 - Theme Song   3:45 - Sponsor - Sundays Dog Food - Get 40% off your first order of Sundays. Go to https://www.SundaysForDogs.com/HOLYPOST or use code HOLYPOST at checkout.   4:50 -  Sponsor - AG1 - Heavily researched, thoroughly purity-tested, and filled with stuff you need. Go to https://www.drinkag1.com/HOLYPOST   7:18 - Terry Gilliam's News of the Butt   10:30 - Haitian Priest Blesses Pets   15:05 - Hurricane Helene   23:02 - Cultural Christianity Michael Bird Article    34:58 - Why Christian Beliefs are Necessary for Christian Virtue   53:47 - Sponsor - The National Association of Evangelicals - Listen to the Difficult to explore how Christians can become peacemakers. Go to https://www.nae.org/introduction-difficult-conversations-podcast-series/ to check it out!   54:53 - Sponsor - Faithful Counseling - This episode is sponsored by Faithful Counseling. Give online therapy a try at https://www.faithfulcounseling.com/HOLYPOST and get 10% off   56:00 - Interview   1:02:26 - How Women are Blamed for Men's Sins   1:08:47 - Are Churches Better Prepared to Address Sexual Abuse?   1:14:54 - Is the Culture More Likely to Call Out Abuse Now?   1:18:17 - The Link Between January 6 and Sexual Abuse Scandals   1:24:04 - Will There Be a Church Backlash if Kamala Wins?   1:29:04 - End Credits     Links Mentioned in the News Segment: Haitian Priest Blesses Pets: https://religionnews.com/2024/10/06/in-new-hampshire-a-haitian-priest-blesses-animals-defeating-internet-pet-eating-rumors-with-laughter/   Disaster Relief for Hurricane Helene: https://www.bpr.org/bpr-news/2024-09-28/list-ways-to-donate-and-help-flood-victims-in-western-north-carolina-after-hurricane-helene   The Rise of Cultural Christianity: https://michaelfbird.substack.com/p/the-rise-of-cultural-christianity?utm_source=post-email-title&publication_id=313362&post_id=148631936&utm_campaign=email-post-title&isFreemail=true&r=6smb2&triedRedirect=true&utm_medium=email   Other resources:   Holy Post website: https://www.holypost.com/   Holy Post Plus: www.holypost.com/plus   Holy Post Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/holypost   Holy Post Merch Store: https://www.holypost.com/shop   The Holy Post is supported by our listeners. We may earn affiliate commissions through links listed here. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.  

This is an ELECTION special episode.Church, this is for you: It's time to decide. No kidding. For real. I will be brief, but I will be bold and clear. God has long been testing the non-affirming Evangelical church to reveal its true heart and faith to the world.And beloved, this election was the final exam. The grade is in. Now, It's time for you to decide… who will you follow?Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

This is a very special episode that I think we all need.Certainly, we are aware of what has been happening in the world, overwhelmed with media, social media, mixed feelings of hope, followed by dread, doom and fear, then replaced with excitement -- wild emotional swings. And we expect that to continue and even heighten in the coming weeks.What do we do in times like these?Today, we give you specific things you can do to care for yourself and those you love.Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

Today we are going to share some queer wisdom. What is that? It is wisdom that accepts people for who they are, inclusive, affirming, celebrates diversity, and loves above all else.That is what Jesus modeled and taught – and it's so different from what the non-affirming, rules-based church teaches.We talk about the validity of church as a construct. And we share with you 15 things queer culture teaches that straight culture doesn't!This is going to be so much fun!Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

What is happening in your life? Are people telling you to go out there and hustle in an economic system that doesn't work except for the elite?Are people saying it's okay to be gay, but you can't act on it – that you can only have this kind of partner or else you have to be alone?Do people tell you to believe what they believe or you'll go to hell?That's real life for many of you – that's the race you are being asked to run.The summer has brought us some great sporting events with amazing champions, and I don't mean just the people who came in first place. I mean those who showed courage, were bold, dedicated to something they loved, lived true to the calling in the hearts.Huh… sounds a lot like  you. This is YOUR life, YOUR race – So let's talk today about how you can unleash your inner champion. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

You don't owe non-supportive people answers when they can't just let you be who you are. You don't owe them your time, you don't owe them your peace, you don't owe them your soul. But that can be a challenge, for sure, because you don't want to end the relationship. Or, you may have the thought that if you back off, things could still mend somehow in the future. Beloved, this can be toxic for you. And you don't deserve that.Let's talk about this today and how the most powerful thing you can do for you, for those around you, is to just Be You!Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the show

After diving in – no pun intended – to the recent Olympics, we really want to entice you to look at the spark in yourself, that may have been there from the very beginning. And to let it resurface. You may have been taught or encouraged to hide it – but we hope you are in a safer place to listen to and follow your heart, and not feel crushed that certain things may not be for you.That spark of desire can be easily overlooked. Yes, we're reasoned out of it—by parents, church, kids in school—who tell us that it will never be. But there's something inside us from when we're small, like a guiding star. It is part of what it means to just be you. Today we help light your inner spark, and let it shine. Send us a private message. *Note: INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS if you'd like us to answer. :-) Support the Show.

Fr. Mike reflects on the story of Susanna's righteousness in the book of Daniel. While celebrating Susanna's virtue, Daniel's wisdom, and God's faithfulness, Fr. Mike also warns us that, like the corrupt elders in the story, we too can allow our hearts to become perverted by the things we fix our eyes on. The readings are Jeremiah 30, Daniel 12-13, and Proverbs 16:17-20. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.