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Today the word "Christian" is polarizing. In fact for many it conjures up words like hate, nationalism, evil, fear. WOW...it should not. Then couple that word with Queer, and you might as well be burned at the stake! Let's not do that. Instead, let's invite Queer Christians to the table to embrace their love of goad and faith, and invite others who do not believe you deserve a place at the table, to have human conversations to change that hate, to love. Repeat podcast guest, Rev. Brandan Robertson joins us today to share his new book Queer and Christian: Reclaiming The Bible, Faith, Our Faith, and Our place At The Table - a joyful celebration of queer faith. In this episode: Discover calm, peaceful, empathetic conversations with the extreme Christians are necessary Learn why coming to church is an act of community and activism Uncover the right questions to ask to reclaim your faith in yourself and your community About Brandan Rev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian, dedicated to exploring the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social justice. He serves as the Pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City and is the founder and Executive Director of The Devout Foundation. Known as the "TikTok Pastor," Robertson's inclusive theological content reaches over 250,000 followers and has garnered 6 million views. He has authored 23 books, including the INDIES Book of the Year finalist True Inclusion. His work has been featured in TIME Magazine, CNN, and The Washington Post. Robertson is a sought-after speaker who regularly presents at prestigious platforms like The White House and Oxford University, continuing to inspire and challenge audiences around the world. Robertson acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute, an Master of Theological Study from Iliff School of Theology, and an Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He's presently pursuing aPhD in Biblical Studies at Drew University. He currently resides in New York City. About The Book Celebrate queer faith and take your rightful place at God's table with Brandan Robertson, the “TikTok Pastor,” Biblical scholar, and social activist For too long, the Bible has been weaponized to exclude LGBTQ+ individuals, despite Jesus' radical message of inclusion. In Queer & Christian, Brandan Robertson envisions a faith where all are unequivocally embraced. Ostracized at school, Brandan thought he had finally found his community when he joined the local church. But he soon realized that they were as intolerant as his peers at school had been—if not more so. After agonizing years of repressing his true identity, he discovered that God's table had always had a place for him. Jesus' love knows no bounds, embracing everyone unconditionally. Queer & Christian is a joyful celebration of queer faith and an unyielding reclamation of the Bible. Dive into pages that offer: -Compelling, evidence-based counterarguments to the “clobber verses” often used to condemn queerness -Celebrations of queer saints within the Bible—more numerous than you might believe! -Responses to commonly asked questions by queer folks and allies who're feeling lost within the Christian faith Connect With Brandan Website Instagram TikTok Hey Guys, Check This Out!...
Send us a textWhat if faith and queerness weren't at odds? What if a vibrant, affirming Christian life was not only possible for queer folks and their families, but deeply sacred? This week, In the Den, Sara continues a conversation with special guest Reverend Brandan Robertson, a dynamic pastor, author, and thought leader at the forefront of LGBTQ+ inclusion in Christian spaces.Special Guest: Reverend Brandan RobertsonRev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian, dedicated to exploring the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social justice. He serves as the Pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City and is the founder and Executive Director of The Devout Foundation. Known as the "TikTok Pastor," Robertson's inclusive theological content reaches over 250,000 followers and has garnered 6 million views. He has authored 23 books, including the INDIES Book of the Year finalist True Inclusion. Robertson acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute, an Master of Theological Study from Iliff School of Theology, and a Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He's presently pursuing a PhD in Biblical Studies at Drew University. He currently resides in New York City.Links from the Show:Find Brandan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@revbrandanrobertson Find Brandan's website here: https://www.brandanrobertson.com/ Gay Church: www.gaychurch.org Find Brandan's books in the Mama Dragons bookstore here: https://bookshop.org/beta-search?keywords=brandan Brandan's new book Queer & Christian: https://bookshop.org/p/books/queer-christian-reclaiming-the-bible-our-faith-and-our-place-at-the-table-brandan-robertson/21752396?ean=9781250321343&next=t Join Mama Dragons today: www.mamadragons.org In the Den is made possible by generous donors like you. Help us continue to deliver quality content by becoming a donor today at www.mamadragons.org. Connect with Mama Dragons:WebsiteInstagramFacebookDonate to this podcast
Send us a textFor many in our Mama Dragons community—and for queer folks in general—it can be hard to imagine a place for themselves within religion, and Christianity specifically, especially for those who have been shunned or hurt by their religious communities. Many have chosen to leave religion behind altogether, because it felt impossible to reconcile the theology you were taught with the deep love and support you feel for your queer kids. This week, In the Den, Sara visits with special guest Reverend Brandan Robertson about what it means to reclaim faith, challenge exclusionary narratives, and build a church that fully embraces authenticity, love, and belonging.Special Guest: Reverend Brandan RobertsonRev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian, dedicated to exploring the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social justice. He serves as the Pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City and is the founder and Executive Director of The Devout Foundation. Known as the "TikTok Pastor," Robertson's inclusive theological content reaches over 250,000 followers and has garnered 6 million views. He has authored 23 books, including the INDIES Book of the Year finalist True Inclusion. His work has been featured in TIME Magazine, CNN, and The Washington Post. Robertson is a sought-after speaker who regularly presents at prestigious platforms like The White House and Oxford University, continuing to inspire and challenge audiences around the world. Robertson acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute, an Master of Theological Study from Iliff School of Theology, and a Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He's presently pursuing a PhD in Biblical Studies at Drew University. He currently resides in New York City.Links from the Show:Find Brandan on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@revbrandanrobertson Find Brandan's website here: https://www.brandanrobertson.com/ Gay Church: www.gaychurch.org Find Brandan's books in the Mama Dragons bookstore here: https://bookshop.org/contributors/brandan-robertsonBrandan's new book Queer & Christian: https://bookshop.org/p/books/queer-christian-reclaiming-the-bible-our-faith-and-our-place-at-the-table-brandan-robertson/21752396?aid=108866&ean=9781250321343&listref=in-the-den-podcast-featured-authorsJoin Mama Dragons today: www.mamadragons.org In the Den is made possible by generous donors like you. Help us continue to deliver quality contentConnect with Mama Dragons:WebsiteInstagramFacebookDonate to this podcast
On today's episode, we have Brandan Robertson (he/him). Brandan is known on the internet as the “TikTok Pastor,” with lots of folks tuning into his inclusive theological digital content across social media. I was curious to have Brandan come on to add to the conversation we've been having about queerness - I've gotten to speak with lots of folks whom as part of their healing have created distance between themselves and religion and God, but I've also heard from folks who are seeking ways to integrate their queerness with a faith as an adult. Brandan is a great resource here because he author of the forthcoming book “Queer & Christian: Reclaiming the Bible, Our Faith, and Our Place at the Table." The book and todays conversation are really about how queer folks can do just that - reclaim their faith. Even if you're not seeking this for yourself, I found this conversation to be interesting and informative.Pre-order Queer & Christian HEREAbout the guest:Rev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian, dedicated to exploring the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social justice. He serves as the Pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City and is the founder and Executive Director of The Devout Foundation. Known as the "TikTok Pastor," Robertson's inclusive theological content reaches over 250,000 followers and has garnered 6 million views. He has authored 23 books, including the INDIES Book of the Year finalist True Inclusion. His work has been featured in TIME Magazine, CNN, and The Washington Post. Robertson is a sought-after speaker who regularly presents at prestigious platforms like The White House and Oxford University, continuing to inspire and challenge audiences around the world. Robertson acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute, an Master of Theological Study from Iliff School of Theology, and an Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He's presently pursuing a PhD in Biblical Studies at Drew University. He currently resides in New York City.Connect with Brandan on TikTok & InstagramFor more, visit www.secondadolescencepod.com and @secondadolescencepod.
Today, Brandan Robertson and I talk about navigating the spectrum of queer faith in community. Rev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian, dedicated to exploring the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social justice. He serves as the Pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City and is the founder and Executive Director of The Devout Foundation. Known as the "TikTok Pastor," Robertson's inclusive theological content reaches over 250,000 followers and has garnered 6 million views. He has authored 23 books, including the INDIES Book of the Year finalist True Inclusion. His work has been featured in TIME Magazine, CNN, and The Washington Post. Robertson is a sought-after speaker who regularly presents at prestigious platforms like The White House and Oxford University, continuing to inspire and challenge audiences around the world. Robertson acquired a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute, a Master of Theological Study from Iliff School of Theology, and a Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He's presently pursuing a PhD in Biblical Studies at Drew University. He currently resides in New York City.You can follow Brandon on TikTok @revbrandanrobertson and on IG @brandanrobertson. Pre-order Queer & Christian at queerchristian.org or wherever you buy books! Check out all of Brandan's resources and links on his website, brandanrobertson.comJoin the Found Family crew over on Substack and get your copy of the Found Family Cheat Sheet! Support the show
Eric C. Smith is Associate Professor of Early Christian Texts and Traditions and Co-Director of the Doctor in Ministry Program at Iliff School of Theology.
Host Tiokasin Ghosthorse catches up with returning guest Dr. Tink Tinker. Dr. Tinker is the Clifford Baldridge Emeritus Professor of American Indian Cultures and Religious Traditions at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He is a citizen of the Osage Nation (wazhazhe) and has been an activist in urban American Indian communities for four decades. He joined the faculty at Iliff School of Theology in 1985 and brought an American Indian perspective to this predominantly euro-christian school. Dr. Tinker is committed to a scholarly endeavor that takes seriously both the liberation of Indian peoples from their historic oppression as colonized communities and the liberation of euro-christian (White) Americans, the historic colonizers and oppressors of Indian peoples, whose self-narrative typically avoids naming the violence committed against Indians in favor of a romance narrative that justifies their euro-christian occupancy of Indian lands. Rocky Mountain PBS has produced a fine documentary in which Dr. Tinker is featured. The documentary has won a regional Emmy award (a Heartland Emmy): A new chapter: Coming to terms with a gruesome legacy (rmpbs.org)Production Credits:Tiokasin Ghosthorse (Lakota), Host and Executive ProducerLiz Hill (Red Lake Ojibwe), ProducerOrlando DuPont, Studio Engineer, Radio KingstonTiokasin Ghosthorse, Audio EditorKevin Richardson, Podcast EditorMusic Selections:1. Song Title: Twist in My SobrietyArtist: Tanita TikaramAlbum: Ancient Heart (1988)Label: Reprise Records2. Song Title: Tahi Roots Mix (First Voices Radio Theme Song)Artist: Moana and the Moa HuntersAlbum: Tahi (1993)Label: Southside Records (Australia and New Zealand)3. Song Title: AmbrosiaArtist: A Reminiscent DriveAlbum: Ambrosia (2000)Label: Toy's FactoryAKANTU INTELLIGENCE Visit Akantu Intelligence, an institute that Tiokasin founded with a mission of contextualizing original wisdom for troubled times. Go to https://akantuintelligence.org to find out more and consider joining his Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/Ghosthorse
Eric C. Smith is Associate Professor of Early Christian Texts and Traditions and Co-Director of the Doctor of Ministry in Prophetic Leadership Program at Iliff School of Theology. What does it mean to create and sustain learner centered approaches for courses in Bible? When Bible courses are not neutral nor benign, but acknowledge a political dynamism in the conversation, what is the role of the teacher? What does it take to develop relevant courses for Bible in this day and time?
Guest Preacher: Rev. Dr. Lee Butler, Jr.President & CEO, Iliff School of Theology
In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. welcomes Rev. Dr. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, who delves into her recent research, including the Latino Congregations Trends from the Faith Communities Today (FACT) study and the Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations (EPIC) study. She highlights key findings on the state of Latino congregations in the U.S., including challenges related to building ownership, generational wealth, and reliance on fundraising. Kristina also shares insights from her book, Unraveling Religious Leadership, which examines the Eurocentric norms in theological education and the need for a more inclusive approach to ministry. Rev. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, Ph.D. (she/her/ella) is Associate Professor of Leadership and Formation and Faculty Director of the Office of Professional Formation at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. In addition, she co-directs the Doctor of Ministry in Prophetic Leadership at Iliff and coordinates the Certificate in Latinx Studies for the Iliff/DU Joint PhD in Religion. Her teaching and research interests include organizational leadership, liberative and decolonial approaches to ministry, intersectional pedagogical practices, and applied research methods. Kristina is the author of Unraveling Religious Leadership: Power, Authority, and Decoloniality (Fortress, 2024), author of the report "Latino Congregations: Trends from the Faith Communities Today (FACT) and Exploring the Pandemic Impact on Congregations (EPIC) Studies" (Hartford Institute for Religion Research, 2023), and co-editor of Explore: Vocational Discovery in Ministry (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022). She is an Ordained Minister in the United Church of Christ. Episodes Referenced: Scott Thumma: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/understanding-the-impact-of-societal-changes-on-congregational-dynamics-insights-from-dr-scott-thumma/ 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 – Guest Host / Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant
Interview begins: 5:03 In this episode of The Sacred Speaks, we explore the profound spiritual and social dimensions of gender with Rev. Cynthia Brix and Dr. Will Keepin, pioneers in the field of gender reconciliation and equity. Cynthia, an interfaith minister and wellness expert, and Will, a former quantum physicist turned healer and spiritual seeker, share their journeys and the transformative power of their work. Cynthia discusses her path from atheism to a dynamic spirituality grounded in activism and human relationships. She reflects on how her experiences and education led her to focus on bridging divides through dialogue and connection. Will, drawing from his background in quantum physics and mysticism, discusses the distinction between Newtonian and quantum physics, landing on what he refers to as an "epistemology of the heart," a way of knowing that transcends reason and embraces the interconnectedness of the universe. Will notes that his crisis of science was related to the conclusions of many radical scientists who determined that there is a deeper register to reality that is not subject to our scientific instruments, highlighting some of the limitations of our modern sciences. We discussed both of their understanding of spirituality, defining the concept and exploring how practice transforms our lived experience. Together, they explore duality and nonduality, the integration of spiritual wisdom with social engagement, emphasizing the healing potential of personal storytelling in their workshops. Cynthia and Will envision a future where a new civilization, built on reverence and understanding, can emerge through this powerful work. Bio: Dr. William Keepin and Rev. Cynthia Brix are co-founders of Gender Equity and Reconciliation International, an organization that has led 280 intensive trainings across twelve countries to foster healing and reconciliation among people of all genders. Cynthia, an ordained interfaith minister and Co-Director of the Satyana Institute, brings a diverse background in spiritual leadership and social justice. She holds an M.Div. from Iliff School of Theology and a double M.A. in wellness management and applied gerontology. Cynthia has led interfaith retreats and organized international conferences on spirituality and gender equity, including one that brought together women spiritual leaders from Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu traditions. Together, they have developed a transformative method for gender reconciliation, emphasizing compassion, deep listening, and mutual respect. Will, a former mathematical physicist with a PhD in applied mathematics, is also a scholar in sustainable energy, global warming, and the intersection of science and spirituality. He has testified before European and Australian parliaments and the U.S. House of Representatives and is a co-founder of the Satyana Institute. A seasoned spiritual practitioner, Will holds multiple degrees in East-West psychology and mathematical physics, and is the author of several books, including Divine Duality and Belonging to God. https://www.genderreconciliationinternational.org/ Link to Houston workshop: https://www.thecenterforhas.com/event/the-alchemy-of-reconciliation-a-workshop-for-women-men-healing-across-genders/ Website for The Sacred Speaks: http://www.thesacredspeaks.com WATCH: YouTube for The Sacred Speaks https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOAuksnpfht1udHWUVEO7Rg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesacredspeaks/ @thesacredspeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/thesacredspeaks Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesacredspeaks/ Brought to you by: https://www.thecenterforhas.com Theme music provided by: http://www.modernnationsmusic.com
After Ralph's study on the argued contradictions in the Bible, Tiziana decided to invite her professor, Dr. Eric Smith to come on the show and discuss the topic. Dr. Smith is an Associate Professor of Early Christian Text and Tradition at Iliff School of Theology in Denver Colorado. Originally from right here in North Carolina, he received his bachelors from Mars Hill University, and his Masters of Theological Studies from Vanderbilt University, and Ph.D from Iliff and the University of Denver. His research and teaching center on a constellation of interests in the world of late antiquity, including identity formation, material culture and materialist approaches to religion, and both ancient and modern interpretations of biblical texts. We make some corrections to the previous episode and go further what scholarship calls the disputed and undisputed Pauline texts, etc. It's a fascinating and challenging conversation!If you'd like to learn more about Dr. Smith, or pick up one of his books, especially his book "Paul the Progressive?", please click on the link to his website: https://www.ericcsmith.com/ or visit his blog titled A Lover's Quarrel at: https://ericcsmith.substack.com/Below are the links to the two books suggested by Dr. smith:If God Still Breathes, Why Can't I? by Angela Parker- https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802879264/if-god-still-breathes-why-cant-i/God's Ghostwriters: Enslaved Christians and the Making of the Bible by Candida Moss- https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/candida-moss/gods-ghostwriters/9780316564694/?lens=little-brownIf you'd like to support this podcast, please visit: www.patreon.com/theburrosofbereaIf you'd like to learn more about us, please visit our website at: www.burrosofberea.comCheck out the sponsor of this episode! www.carolinacases.netThanks for listening!
#109 - Kirsten Rudberg's journey across the Camino de Santiago offers more than just tales of physical endurance; it's a deep dive into the realms of solitude, personal growth, and the magic of unexpected generosity. Join us as Kirsten, a panentheist with a Master's of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology, shares her transformative pilgrimage experience, shedding light on the profound lessons learned along the ancient path. Her stories reveal how embracing the unknown and facing fears head-on can lead to remarkable inner growth and a renewed faith in humanity.But Kirsten's journey isn't confined to the Camino. Growing up overseas with a father who built hydroelectric dams in developing countries, Kirsten developed a unique worldview that fuels her creative endeavors today. Whether she's podcasting, screenwriting, or crafting the animated series "Murder of Two," Kirsten's diverse background and the challenges she faced adjusting to life back in the States have deeply influenced her work. She unpacks these experiences with humor and grace, offering listeners a fresh perspective on resilience and creativity.This episode also delves into Kirsten's reflections on overcoming childhood adversities, including her parents' divorce and the cultural dissonance of returning to the U.S. These experiences have shaped her understanding of adventure as not only extraordinary journeys but also daily encounters that push us beyond our comfort zones. From navigating the Spanish coast's challenging terrain to starting her own podcast, Kirsten's story is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown, meeting new people, and finding joy in solitude. Tune in to be inspired by her insights on personal growth, creative expression, and the interconnectedness of all beings.You can find out more from Kirsten by visiting her website www.bytesizedblessings.com or checking her out on Instagram @bytesizedblessingspod. Give me a follow on Instagram @journeywithjakepodcast and reach out and say hi. I would love to hear from you. If you have anyone you think I should have on the show or you would like to be on the show please email the show jake@journeywithjake.net and tell me why.Visit geneticinsights.co and use the code "DISCOVER25" to enjoy a sweet 25% off your first purchase. Visit LandPirate.com to get your gear that has you, the adventurer, in mind. Use the code "Journey with Jake" to get an additional 15% off at check out.
Philip Butler is Assistant Professor of Theology and Black Post-Human Artificial Intelligence Systems at Iliff School of Theology. What if teaching had the audacity to pose questions which disrupts reality? What if the disruption was generative, imaginative, and healing? This conversation grapples with what it means to teach at the intersection of neuroscience, technology, spirituality, and Blackness to prepare futures and reimagine leaders.
[appearing on this episode: Joey Svendsen and guest, Amanda Udis-Kessler]Amanda Udis-Kessler PhD. wrote a book on ethics, Abundant Lives: A Progressive Christian Ethic of Flourishing. This book sets out to invite sociologically informed engagement in human well-being, based on Jesus' command to love God and our neighbors. Talking through many facets of its content, Joey and Dr. Amanda discuss whether the resurrection of Jesus is an essential belief of Christian faith, if objective morality can exist without God and whether or not ignorance excuses one's actions from being immoral. And if ignorance isn't an excuse for humans, should other animal species also be considered immoral for the violence acted upon one another and other species [out of ignorance]?Amanda Udis-Kessler (PhD, sociology, Boston College; certificate, Iliff School of Theology) is the author of Queer Inclusion in the United Methodist Church (Routledge, 2008), Abundant Lives: A Progressive Christian Ethic of Flourishing (Pilgrim, 2024) and Cultural Processes of Inequality: A Sociological Perspective (Anthem, 2024). She has essays, chapters, and other materials in an additional 13 books. Amanda's liturgical materials are available at several compilation websites in the US, UK, and Australia.Get The B-Sides Feed Facebook Discussion Group here.E-mail the PWNA team here.Theme Song and Intro Music: Stoy Prioleau (aka: Riggy Rock): Apple MusicClosing and intro music by Derek Minor.Send a Text to the show!Host and producer, Joey Svendsen also hosts and produces two other podcasts, coming more from the church world:Seacoast Church's Things You Won't Hear on Sunday Podcast &The Endurance Factor Podcast Other podcasts affiliated with co-hosts of PWNA:Jed's Church & Other DrugsMatt's The Great Deconstruction
"Amanda Udis-Kessler (PhD, sociology, Boston College; certificate, Iliff School of Theology) is the author of Queer Inclusion in the United Methodist Church (Routledge, 2008), Abundant Lives: A Progressive Christian Ethic of Flourishing (Pilgrim, 2024) and Cultural Processes of Inequality: A Sociological Perspective (Anthem, 2024). She has essays, chapters, and other materials in an additional 13 books. Amanda's liturgical materials are available at several compilation websites in the US, UK, and Australia. Amanda offers antiracism and anti-oppression trainings specifically as a white person for other white people. These workshops focus on the cultural processes underlying inequality, the issue and nature of white discomfort with racism, and concrete actions people in socially valued groups can take to work for inequality. For information about Amanda's work as a hymnwriter, songwriter, and sacred music composer, please see her bio at https://queersacredmusic.com. The music on this website is all available for free, with no licensing or reporting requirements. Amanda is a covenantal partner, musician, and lay worship leader at Vista Grande United Church of Christ (Colorado Springs, CO, US) and a regular visiting speaker at the Progressive Christianity Network Britain St. Albans Group." Link to her website: Books | Amanda Udis-Kessler (amandaudiskessler.com) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/antonio-myers4/support
As bodies were burning from this massacre at the Mystic River in Massachusetts in 1637, pious settlers gave thanks to God for the victory- and even identified that the bodies burning were a “sweet-smelling savor in the nostrils of God.” Is this really the Land of the Free? Does freedom for some depend on violence against others? Rev Dr. Lee Butler, President of Iliff School of Theology, shares his perspective on the violent history at the founding of the U.S. that continues to influence how we relate to one another today. Amanda and Rev. Dr. Lee Butler discuss the contradictions between the U.S. ideals of freedom and the country's violent history of slavery, lynching, and cruel massacres. In this episode, this duo argues that acknowledging this history is crucial for understanding the ongoing legacies of colonization and systemic inequality, and the importance of redefining this idea of freedom for future generations to come. https://religionnews.com/complexified GUEST: Born in Central Pennsylvania, the Rev. Dr. Lee H. Butler, Jr. is a lifelong Baptist and a first-generation beneficiary of the Post-Civil and Human Rights struggle in the United States. Dr. Butler comes to Iliff School of Theology from Phillips Theological Seminary where he served as the Vice-President of Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, and the William Tabbernee Professor of the History of Religions and Africana Pastoral Theology since July 1, 2020. He is the first African American tenured full professor and the first person of color to hold the office of VPAA and Academic Dean and serve as Acting President at Phillips. As VPAA, his responsibilities included oversight and supervision of the Associate Dean, Registrar, Recruitment, Admissions and Financial Aid, Director of Theological Field Education, Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program, Director of Black Church Traditions Program, Dean of the Chapel, Faculty, and Dean of the Library. He is an active publishing scholar. He is the co-editor of The Edward Wimberly Reader: A Black Pastoral Theology (Baylor University Press, 2020); author of Listen, My Son: Wisdom to Help African American Fathers (Abingdon Press, 2010), Liberating Our Dignity, Saving Our Souls (Chalice Press, 2006), A Loving Home: Caring for African American Marriage and Families (Pilgrim Press, 2000), and numerous articles published in many books and professional journals on the subject of pastoral care and pastoral psychology.
Amanda and Amy dive into the complex relationship between land ownership and belonging in the US, drawing on biblical interpretations. Amanda emphasized the significance of land in shaping political and religious beliefs, while Amy offered nuanced interpretations of the Hebrew Bible, revealing how it has been used to justify land ownership and extraction. In this conversation, Amy and Amanda discuss the Bible's views on land and its interpretation. They explore the contradictory perspectives on land ownership and the connection between land and identity. They also examine the impact of assumptions about land in the United States and the disconnect between urban elites and the land. Amy shares her personal journey of developing a deeper connection with the land through activities like hunting and fly fishing. The conversation highlights the healing power of the land and the importance of understanding our relationship with it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:13 The Bible's Contradictory Views on Land 08:29 Genesis 1 and the Interpretation of Land 12:22 John Locke and the Interpretation of Land Ownership 14:20 The Connection Between Land and Identity 20:23 The Impact of Assumptions about Land in the United States 23:10 The Disconnect between Urban Elites and the Land 26:08 The Impact of Land Use on Communities 28:30 Personal Connection to the Land 30:26 The Healing Power of the Land 33:18 The Bible's View on Our Relationship with the Land Guest: Amy Erickson is Professor of Hebrew Bible at the Iliff School of Theology. Erickson teaches a range of courses in biblical interpretation, including The Body and Sexuality in the Hebrew Bible, The Hebrew Bible and Ecology, and Jonah and Its Afterlives. Her research interests include Hebrew poetry, poetic and mythological texts in ancient West Asian literature, and the Hebrew Bible's history of interpretation. She has recently completed a commentary on the book of Jonah and its history of interpretation entitled Jonah: Introduction and Commentary (Illuminations; Eerdmans, 2021), and has written articles on Job, Jonah, the Psalms, Zechariah, and Amos for academic journals and edited volumes. Erickson is also a regular contributor to workingpreacher.org, the Huffington Post ON Scripture, The Christian Century, and The Encyclopedia of the Bible and Its Reception (de Gruyter). She is currently working on a book on the Hebrew Bible and ecology. An Interview with Eerdmans Publishing Co. about Erickson's book on Jonah. Commentary on Psalm 146 Commentary on Psalm 121 Psalm 1: Putting Evil in Its Place For more episodes and info visit Complexified at RNS
Tiokasin catches up with returning guest Dr. Tink Tinker for the full hour. Dr. Tinker is the Clifford Baldridge Emeritus Professor of American Indian Cultures and Religious Traditions at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He is a citizen of the Osage Nation (wazhazhe) and has been an activist in urban American Indian communities for four decades. He joined the faculty at Iliff School of Theology in 1985 and brought an American Indian perspective to this predominantly euro-christian school. Dr. Tinker is committed to a scholarly endeavor that takes seriously both the liberation of Indian peoples from their historic oppression as colonized communities and the liberation of euro-christian (White) Americans, the historic colonizers and oppressors of Indian peoples, whose self-narrative typically avoids naming the violence committed against Indians in favor of a romance narrative that justifies their euro-christian occupancy of Indian lands. Production Credits: Tiokasin Ghosthorse (Lakota), Host and Executive Producer Liz Hill (Red Lake Ojibwe), Producer Malcolm Burn, Studio Engineer, Radio Kingston Tiokasin Ghosthorse, Audio Editor Kevin Richardson, Podcast Editor Music Selections: 1. Song Title: Tahi Roots Mix (First Voices Radio Theme Song) Artist: Moana and the Moa Hunters Album: Tahi (1993) Label: Southside Records (Australia and New Zealand) 2. Song Title: Come As You Are (Nirvana) Artist: Playing for Change, Various Artists (with opening lead vocals by Genevieve Chadwick from Ulladulla, Australia) Single: 2021 Website: https://www.playingforchange.com/ 3. Song Title: Ship of Fools Artist: World Party Album: Private Revolution Label: Chrysalis AKANTU INTELLIGENCE Visit Akantu Intelligence, an institute that Tiokasin founded with a mission of contextualizing original wisdom for troubled times. Go to https://akantuintelligence.org to find out more and consider joining his Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/Ghosthorse
My dear classmate at Iliff School of Theology, Ru-Lee, is answering the questions about their trans identity that many of us have been too afraid to ask.
My dear classmate at Iliff School of Theology, Ru-Lee, is answering the questions about their trans identity that many of us have been too afraid to ask.
Bishop Julius C. Trimble is the Resident Bishop of the Indiana Area of the United Methodist Church.Bishop Trimble has the personal mission to encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential. It is his commitment to his personal mission that led Bishop Trimble to create the “To Be Encouraged” Podcast along with co-host Rev.Dr. Brad Miller. Bishop Trimble says, “I am compelled by Jesus to share with you an encouraging word or two about Jesus, theology, the Bible, the pandemic, the environment, racism, voting rights, human sexuality, and the state of the United Methodist Church.” To Be Encouraged with Bishop Julius C. Trimble is to be published weekly and is available at www.tobeencouraged.com and all the podcast directories.https://www.inumc.org/bishop/office-of-the-bishop/Episode 089 features a conversation with Rev. Dr. Mark Holland from Mainstream UMC. Mainstream UMC is a United Methodist advocacy group working for unity in the Body of Christ.https://mainstreamumc.com/Rev. Dr. Mark Holland is a third-generation United Methodist pastor, following in the footsteps of both his great-grandfather and father. He was ordained in 1996 and first felt the call to ministry at the young age of 14, while attending an annual conference. He pursued his education at Southern Methodist University and Iliff School of Theology, ultimately earning his doctorate at Saint Paul in Kansas City. Throughout his career, Rev. Dr. Holland has been dedicated to serving as a pastor and is passionate about spreading his faith and teachings.https://mainstreamumc.com/
In this episode, Amanda Henderson talks to Dr. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, a biracial scholar and professor at the Iliff School of Theology. They explore the American dream through the lens of personal experiences and the stories of ancestors, especially focusing on the immigrant journey.Dr. Lizardy-Hajbi shares tales of her grandparents from Italy and Puerto Rico, revealing the challenges they had to overcome to settle in America and the personal experiences tied to these journeys. The conversation touches on aspects such as name Anglicization, language loss, and various legal hurdles in the quest for the coveted American Dream. Also discussed is the paradoxical political situation of Puerto Rico as an intricate part of the United States, but lacking in full political representation. Amanda interrogates how religion and differing cultural contexts shaped these immigrant experiences.00:01 Introduction and Background01:14 Exploring the History of Puerto Rico01:41 Guest Introduction: Dr. Kristina Lazardi-Hajbi02:22 The Prerequisites of the American Dream04:10 The Story of Puerto Rican Immigration06:13 The Complexities of Puerto Rican Citizenship10:23 The Impact of Americanization on Immigrant Families14:48 The Italian Immigrant Experience27:31 The Role of Religion in Immigrant Communities33:14 Reflections on the American Dream35:52 Conclusion and Future Plans Want to Learn More?Puerto Rico: A U.S. Territory in Crisis Article: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/puerto-rico-us-territory-crisisNew Partnership in 2024 with Religion News Service. Learn more about RNS here: https://religionnews.com/ Want to Take Action? Learn about immigration rights and how to take action in Colorado: https://www.aclu-co.org/en/campaigns/immigrants-rights Sign up for Complexified Newsletter: https://complexified.substack.com/Help Make Complexified Happen - Donate here https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E345509&id=75Contact us: email complexified@iliff.eduComplexified Website: https://www.complexified.org/
The Reverend Alicia Roxanne Forde serves with the Unitarian Universalist Association as the Director of the International Office. She is a graduate of The Iliff School of Theology and currently lives in Longmont, Colorado. Alicia was born and spent her formative years in Trinidad and Tobago. She identifies as an African descent queer, cis-gender female with deep roots in Tobago. She considers herself bi-cultural and is grateful that her formative years enabled her to cultivate a global perspective. Alicia is a certified Spiritual Director and has a strong interest in health and wellness. In this episode, Louie and Rev. Forde examine in the definition of words we use everyday - beauty, wonder, gratitude, awe - which may deepen our practice and help us to become more present and full of joy, peace and awareness.
Last month, we had our first live audience recording of Complexified! Amanda Henderson and Lex Dunbar welcomed Denver Drag Performers Juiccy Misdemeanor and Dixie Krystals for a provocative conversation confronting the efforts across the U.S. to ban drag performances. We laughed, we cried, we learned, and we laughed some more! 00:02 Introduction and Welcome00:27 The Complexified Live Episode: Why Ban Drag?01:38 Introducing the Drag Performers: Dixie Krystals and Juiccy Misdemeanor02:50 The Current State of Drag and LGBTQ Rights04:41 The Origins and Evolution of Drag10:41 The Role of Activism in Drag12:34 The Intersection of Religion and Drag13:35 The Impact of Politics on Drag and LGBTQ Community18:37 The Challenges and Joys of Being a Drag Performer46:57 The Importance of Community in Drag49:09 Conclusion and Future Plans Guest Bio & linksLex Dunbar - Co-Host for this episodeLex Dunbar (They/Them) is a Black ENBY, June Gemini, and Norf-Philly native. They are a passionate educator, avid protestor, dynamic workshop facilitator, and compassionate neighbor. Lex completed their second Master's degree at Iliff School of Theology and is currently a PhD candidate in the Joint Doctoral Program at Denver University and Iliff School of Theology. Guest Panelist and Performer: Juiccy Misdemeanor Juiccy is a dancer, artist, drag performer, and a growing icon here in Denver, Colorado. Juiccy is the recent winner of Miss Peach 2023, a dynamic performer bringing life of the party energy to the spaces she occupies. https://www.instagram.com/juiccymisdemeanor/ Guest Panelist and Performer: Dixie KrystalsDixie Krystals has been dazzling audiences for 25 years. Her passion for community is what drives her to excellence. She is an ordained minister, bingo queen, emcee and fabulous hostess with the mostess.Dixie has been featured in Generation Drags, Streaming on Max and Camp Wannakiki Season 5 on Out TV.https://www.dixiekrystals.com/ Music by DJ Erin Stereo for the live event: Erin Stereo is a DJ, curator and record collector from Denver, Colorado. Recently, Erin was named Best House DJ by The Denver Westword, Erin Stereo is known for spinning House music designed to ignite and delight the dance floor.https://www.erinstereo.com/ Links for things shared in the episode:Learn more about Mx, the title in place of Mr or Mrs mentioned in the show: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mx_(title) Want to Learn More?From police raids to pop culture: The early history of modern drag https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/drag-queen-drag-balls-early-history-pop-culture12 historic LGBTQ figures who changed the world - https://www.nationalgeographic.com/culture/article/historical-lgbt-figures-activists-culture Anti-Drag legislation - https://people.com/politics/anti-drag-legislation-united-states/Trans History: https://www.historians.org/research-and-publications/perspectives-on-history/may-2018/what-is-trans-history-from-activist-and-academic-roots-a-field-takes-shape Want to Take Action?https://www.lgbtqnation.com/branded/authentic-voices-of-pride/drag-as-activism/https://glaad.org/drag/https://action.aclu.org/give/support-drag-defense-fundVote! Sign up for Complexified Newsletter: https://complexified.substack.com/Help Make Complexified Happen - Donate here https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E345509&id=75Contact us: email complexified@iliff.eduComplexified Website: https://www.complexified.org/
The Rev. Dr. Boyung Lee is Professor of Practical Theology at Iliff School of Theology. In this Silhouette Interview, Lee covers reflection over the impetus of her teaching, being mindful when what's being taught isn't being embodied, the path not trodden of being a physicist, and more.
The American Dream… is complicated. It always has been.For some - this dream has been a nightmare… a mirage in a forsaken desert.A myth.For others, it's been an oasis from hardship, oppression, violence.… a vision realized through physical freedom and material success.This season on Complexified, we're asking:Where did the myth of the American dream come from?What's it got to do with religion and politics?And how is it shaping our lives, for better or worse?Coming to you from the Institute for Religion, Politics & Culture at Iliff School of Theology, I'm your host, Amanda Henderson, back with a new season of Complexified…my show about the powerful ways religion and politics intersect and affect my life. Your life. And all of our lives, together.Each week, I'll share what I'm learning as we turn the myth of the American Dream into our multiple, honest ways of Dreaming America.Complexified: Dreaming America launches October 5th. Follow and share the show now, wherever you listen.
I so enjoyed my conversation with author, lawyer, legislator, minister, Rodger McDaniel about his latest book - Profiles in Courage: Standing Against the Wyoming Wind.McDaniel was a Wyoming state legislator from 1971-1981 and the Democratic Party nominee for the United States Senate in 1982. He received a law degree from the University of Wyoming in 1980. After practicing law for 20 years, he received a Master of Divinity degree from the Iliff School of Theology in Denver and was ordained in 1999. He was a 2000 Fellow at the College of Preachers, National Cathedral, Washington, DC, now Cathedral College of Faith and Culture. While there he studied what it means for Christians to worship God on land stolen from Indigenous Peoples. He was Director of the Wyoming Department of Family Services and headed the state's mental health and substance abuse programs from 2003-2011. He is currently the pastor at Highlands Presbyterian Church in Cheyenne. Rodger has written five books. His most recent - Profiles in Courage: Standing Against the Wyoming Wind - is a collection of stories of 13 individuals and groups who are either marginalized people or their advocates who stood against the prevailing culture. Rodger's first book - Dying for Joe McCarthy's Sins-The Suicide of Wyoming Senator Lester Hunt - was named the best nonfiction book of 2013 by the Wyoming State Historical Society. The Sagebrush Gospel was published in 2014. A fourth book is entitled “Howard Zinn and Lois Mottonen Fistfight in the Equality State.” “The Man in the Arena-The Life and Times of US Senator Gale McGee,” was published in September 2018 by Potomac Books/University of Nebraska Press and was named the Wyoming State Historical Society best nonfiction book of 2013. In his review of the book, Don Ritchie, the Historian Emeritus of the United States Senate, wrote “Rodger McDaniel is a fine writer and a thorough researcher. His account of the U.S. Senate in the 1960s and 1970s is solid and convincing. He has produced a study that should appeal to anyone interested in Congress's role in American foreign policy, the Vietnam War, and twentieth-century American politics."
Justin Friel (He/Him) is currently a Ph.D. student in the Joint Doctoral Program with the University of Denver and Iliff School of Theology. His research explores how religion, culture, and politics influence and affect one another and the ways these forces shape the formation and performance of Queer identities. Within that, Justin's research interests include white Christian nationalism, TikTok, popular culture, and utopia. Justin has an M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy and currently works time as a therapist focusing on sex, sexuality, spirituality, and identity. Visit Justin Friel online: https://www.theholyqueer.com/ Visit Sacred Writes: https://www.sacred-writes.org/carpenter-cohort
Amy is joined by Rev. Cynthia Brix, Dr. William Keepin, and Harin Jeong to discuss their groundbreaking work with Gender Equity and Reconciliation International.Rev. Cynthia Brix, is co-founder of Gender Equity and Reconciliation International, which has organized 280 intensive trainings in twelve countries for healing and reconciliation between women and men, and people of all genders. She is an ordained interfaith minister and Co-Director of Satyana Institute. She was formerly a campus minister at the University of Colorado for United Ministries of Higher Education. Cynthia co-chaired the Race Relations Committee for the City of Muncie, Indiana, and served in numerous leadership positions for Planned Parenthood in Dallas and in Indiana. A long-time student of Eknath Easwaran's Passage Meditation, Cynthia leads retreats on interfaith spirituality. She co-organized five international conferences on interspirituality, one of which brought women spiritual masters together from Buddhist, Christian, and Hindu traditions, and she produced a DVD video from this conference entitled Cultivating Women's Spiritual Mastery. Cynthia holds an M.Div. from Iliff School of Theology (2006), a double M.A. in wellness management and applied gerontology, and an honorary doctorate from the California Institute of Integral Studies. She is contributing author of Divine Duality: The Power of Reconciliation between Women and Men (Hohm Press, 2007), and co-author of Women Healing Women: A Model of Hope for Oppressed Women Everywhere (Hohm Press, 2009). William Keepin, PhD, is co-founder of the Gender Equity and Reconciliation International project. A mathematical physicist widely published in the fields of sustainable energy, global warming, archetypal cosmology, comparative mysticism, and the intersection of science and spirituality, Will has presented testimony to European and Australian parliaments, and the US House of Representatives. He became a whistleblower in nuclear science policy, recounted in The Cultural Creatives (Paul Ray and Sherry Anderson, Harmony Books, 2000). Will co-founded the Satyana Institute, and together with Rev. Cynthia Brix organized five international conferences to facilitate dialogue, interspiritual practice, and collaboration across the major religions and science. Will trained extensively in spiritual traditions East and West, and holds a Ph.D. in applied mathematics, M.S. in mathematical physics, M.A. in East-West psychology, and honorary doctorate from the California Institute of Integral Studies. He is a Fellow of the Findhorn Foundation, and has facilitated Grof holotropic breathwork since 1989. Will is author of Divine Duality: The Power of Reconciliation Between Women and Men (Hohm Press, 2007), and Belonging to God: Spirituality, Science, and a Universal Path of Divine Love (SkyLight Paths, Turner Publishing, 2016). He is co-author of Women Healing Women (Hohm Press, 2009); and Song of the Earth: The Emerging Synthesis of Spiritual and Scientific Worldviews (Permanent Publications, London, UK, 2012). Harin Jeong, MA is a GERI facilitator and lead coordinator for GERI in South Korea based in Seoul. And I'll just make a note that the full title of this organization is Gender Equity and Reconciliation Institute, but we'll abbreviate that sometimes by just saying GERI. So listeners, when you hear the word GERI, you'll know tha
In this episode of the Hope and Heresy podcast, Rev. Peggy and Rev. Sarah are joined by Rev. Mary Katherine Morn, President of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee, and Rev. Alicia Forde, Director of the International Office at the Unitarian Universalist Association, to discuss the question at the heart this season of the podcast: What is the Central Task for Humanity at this Moment in History?Topics that come up in this week's discussion include: What it means, and why it is important, to make both local and global connections; the radical potential of moving money; the concept of a God that is in the constant process of becoming; and the power of a justice-focused love.About this week's guests: After 30 years in faith-based leadership, the Rev. Mary Katherine Morn joined UUSC as President and Lead Executive Officer in 2018. She has helped to grow a number of progressive congregations serving their members and the larger community.Mary Katherine contributed to efforts for economic, racial, and social justice in Macon, Georgia at the Economic Opportunity Council/Headstart with the NAACP. She also worked deeply in the reproductive justice movement. In Nashville, Tennessee, she collaborated with the Interfaith Alliance and Industrial Areas Foundation. In Fairfax, Virginia, she worked with interfaith ministries addressing hunger and homelessness, collaborated with LGBTQI+ advocacy organizations, and served on the county's homelessness task force.The Reverend Alicia Roxanne Forde serves with the Unitarian Universalist Association as the Director of the International Office. She is a graduate of The Iliff School of Theology and currently lives in Longmont, Colorado. Alicia was born and spent her formative years in Trinidad and Tobago. She identifies as an African descent queer, cis-gender female with deep roots in Tobago. She considers herself bi-cultural and is grateful that her formative years enabled her to cultivate a global perspective. Alicia is a certified Spiritual Director and has a strong interest in health and wellness. When she's not hiking, you can find her reading, working-out, or podcast-walking.For the video version of this episode, click here: https://youtu.be/c2hNUa2hu8A.The Hope and Heresy podcast is produced by the Community Church of New York Unitarian Universalist.
Rev. Brandan Robertson is a noted author, activist, and public theologian working at the intersections of spirituality, sexuality, and social renewal. Robertson is most known for his work as the “TikTok Pastor”, creating thousands of TikTok videos on inclusive theology which have garnered over 200k followers and 5 million views. A prolific writer, he is the author of nine books on spirituality, justice, and theology, including the INDIES Book of the Year Award Finalist True Inclusion: Creating Communities of Radical Embrace. Robertson has bylines in publications such as TIME Magazine, San Diego Union Tribune, The Huffington Post, NBC, and The Washington Post, and is a regular columnist for Bishop John Shelby Spong's Progressing Spirit newsletter as well as Baptist News Global. As a trusted voice on progressive faith and politics, Robertson is regularly interviewed in national and global media outlets including CNN, National Public Radio, MSNBC, Hot Press Ireland, The Independent UK, and The New York Times. In 2021, Rolling Stone Magazine included Robertson in its annual “Hot List” of top artists, creatives, and influencers who "are giving us reason to be excited about the future." Each year, Robertson speaks on a variety of topics across the globe and has been an honored speaker at renowned institutions such as The White House, Oxford University, and The Parliament of World Religions. He's taught seminars for San Francisco Theological Seminary and Disciples Seminary Foundation and currently serves on the faculty of The Lakelands Institute. He has served on advisory committees and working groups for the Democratic National Convention, the U.S. Department of State, the Department of Health and Human Services, The Humane Society, and in 2020 was named a Fellow of the prestigious Salzburg Global Seminar. Named by the Human Rights Campaign as one of the top faith-leaders leading the fight for LGBTQ+ equality, Robertson has worked with political leaders and activists around the world to end conversion therapy and promote the human rights of sexual and gender minorities. He works as a national organizer of people of faith on a wide array of social and political issues, and is a founding member of The Union of Affirming Christians, The Global Interfaith Commission on LGBTQ+ Lives, and The Ozanne Foundation US. Robertson received his Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and Theology from Moody Bible Institute, his Master of Theological Studies from Iliff School of Theology, and his Master of Arts in Political Science and Public Administration from Eastern Illinois University. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Religion from Drew University. He currently resides in New York City. TikTok: RevBrandanRobertson, IG: BrandanRobertson, Twitter: @BrandanJR --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dear-christians/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/dear-christians/support
Miguel A. De La Torre is Professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at Iliff School of Theology. In this Silhouette Podcast Interview, De La Torre discusses what it means to have come from poverty, discovery of Liberation Theology, gratitude for political failure, and creative expression in the scholarly life.
Dr. Butler is the founder of the seekr project, a distinctively black conversational artificial intelligence with mental health capacities, and is partner director of the Iliff School of Theology's AI Institute, where he works to change how computers see people.
Anthony Pinn sits down with Dr. Philip Butler, Assistant Professor of Theology and Black Posthuman Artificial Intelligence Systems at Iliff School of Theology, to discuss the ways artificial intelligence is understood and misunderstood, and how our own human intelligence can make the best current and future use of this tool.
In this episode, Raquel and Jennifer are joined by guest Pey Carter - a disabled veteran and survivor of military sexual trauma and abuse. They have multiple chronic illnesses including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Dysautonomia, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Avoidance/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), Post-Traumatic Stress due to military sexual trauma, and Autism Spectrum Disorder.They served as a broadcast journalist in the United States Army and Wisconsin National Guard. Their life has taken them around the world before they settled down in Madison, Wisconsin. They have a BA in Sociology from Winona State University and a MDiv with a concentration in social justice and ethics from Iliff School of Theology.They have over a decade of experience working in the fields of mental health, Post-Traumatic Stress, invisible disabilities, and queer liberation. Public speaking and sharing their personal story of resilience in the face of adversity are passions of theirs. They have worked with politicians, universities, non-profits, and congregations throughout North America to help raise awareness about disabilities, mental health, and sexual trauma. And if all that isn't enough, they have a memoir coming out soon called My Body's Not Your Dartboard.Where to find Pey:Website: www.peycarter.comIG: @notyourdartboardFacebook: facebook.com/notyourdartboardTikTok: @not_your_dartboard Dazzle On Coloring Book: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/peycarter/dazzle-on-coloring-book?ref=nav_search&result=project&term=pey%20carterLet Raquel and Jennifer know what you think about this and other episodes of Madness Cafe on IG @madnesscafepodcast or by email at madnesscafepodcast@gmail.com.And don't forget to rate and review the show wherever you listen!Thanks for listening and responding!
Tiokasin catches up with returning guest Dr. Tink Tinker for the full hour. Dr. Tinker is the Clifford Baldridge Emeritus Professor of American Indian Cultures and Religious Traditions at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He is a citizen of the Osage Nation (wazhazhe) and has been an activist in urban American Indian communities for four decades. He joined the faculty at Iliff School of Theology in 1985 and brought an American Indian perspective to this predominantly euro-christian school. Dr. Tinker is committed to a scholarly endeavor that takes seriously both the liberation of Indian peoples from their historic oppression as colonized communities and the liberation of euro-christian (White) Americans, the historic colonizers and oppressors of Indian peoples, whose self-narrative typically avoids naming the violence committed against Indians in favor of a romance narrative that justifies their euro-christian occupancy of Indian lands. Tiokasin and Dr. Tinker dissect "It's Time to Rethink the Idea of 'Indigenous,'" by Manvir Singh (The New Yorker, Feb. 20, 2023). Production Credits: Tiokasin Ghosthorse (Lakota), Host and Executive Producer Liz Hill (Red Lake Ojibwe), Producer Malcolm Burn, Studio Engineer, Radio Kingston, WKNY 1490 AM and 107.9 FM, Kingston, NY Tiokasin Ghosthorse, Audio Editor Kevin Richardson, Podcast Editor Music Selections: 1. Song Title: Tahi Roots Mix (First Voices Radio Theme Song) Artist: Moana and the Moa Hunters Album: Tahi (1993) Label: Southside Records (Australia and New Zealand) (00:00:22) 2. Song Title: School Days Artist: Labi Siffre Album: Man of Reason (1991) Label: China Records (00:30:10) 3. Song Title: Hidden Falls Artist: Buffalo Weavers Album: The Dark is Getting Bright (2020) Label: N/A (00:49:20) 4. Song Title: Who Set the World on Fire Artist: Stick Figure Album: Who Set the World on Fire (2019) Label: Ruffwood Records (00:51:55) 5. Song Title: Come As You Are Artist: Nirvana Album: Nevermind (1991) Label: DGC Records (00:55:48) AKANTU INSTITUTE: Visit Akantu Institute, an institute that Tiokasin founded with a mission of contextualizing original wisdom for troubled times. Go to https://akantuinstitute.org/ to find out more and consider joining his Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/Ghosthorse.
Derrick speaks with Dr. Melanie Harris about ecowomanism, the food, health, and ecological wellbeing program at Wake Forest University, and the challenges for climate activists of color. BIO Dr. Melanie L. Harris is Professor of Black Feminist and Womanist Theologies jointly appointed with African American Studies at Wake Forest University. She also serves as the Director of Food, Health and Ecological Well Being at Wake Forest University. A graduate of the Harvard Leadership Program, her administrative leadership focuses on the areas of inclusive excellence, equity and access in higher education, and ethical leadership. Dr. Harris' scholarship critically examines intersections between race, religion, gender and environmental ethics. She is the author of many scholarly articles and books including Gifts of Virtue: Alice Walker and Womanist Ethics (Palgrave), Ecowomanism: Earth Honoring Faiths (Orbis) and co-editor of Faith, Feminism, and Scholarship: The Next Generation (Palgrave) as well as numerous journal articles and book chapters. Dr. Harris is a former broadcast journalist who worked as a news producer for ABC, CBS, and NBC affiliates. A community leader whose passion for education is linked to a commitment to social justice, she has also served as an educational consultant with the Ford Foundation, the Forum for Theological Exploration, and the Wabash Center for Teaching and Learning in Theology and Religion, Lilly Endowment Inc. She is on the executive board of the Society for the Study of Black Religion and has served on the Board of Directors of KERA-TV/Radio, the American Academy of Religion and the Society of Christian Ethics. Dr. Harris has been awarded several prestigious awards and academic fellowships including the AddRan College of Liberal Arts Administration Fellowship and GreenFaith Fellowship. Dr. Harris earned her PhD and M.A. degrees from Union Theological Seminary in The City of New York, an M. Div. from Iliff School of Theology and a B.A. from Spelman College. mharris@wfu.edu
Episode SummaryWe continue our march toward the marginalized this week with another conversation with Dr. Miguel De La Torre about the future of American political identity. As a Lantinx scholar, Miguel sees a future in which American society is run by white Christian nationalist elites at the expense of everyone who is 'the other.' Much like South African Apartheid, America could become a nation controlled by a very powerful and violent minority all supported by white evangelicals. After all, it was conservative Christians who helped set up South African Apartheid in the 1948. Following these through lines of American racism and oppression, he warns of a decline in democracy and rise in political violence—but equips us with the nonviolent ethical framework to resist this bleak future. If you are a citizen of the United States, have you ever considered what it might look like to become Un-American? Have you ever considered all the ways the American Empire forces you to compromise your faith? As Christian ethicist Stanley Hauerwas once wrote, “Being a Christian is going to put you at odds with a great deal of what it means to be an American.” In this episode, we call upon listeners to consider what it might mean to remake America in the image of the God of liberation, and how do achieve that nonviolently? What role can you play in resisting this dominator form of Christianity and politics? BioDr. Miguel De La Torre is Professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He has served as the elected 2012 President of the Society of Christian Ethics and served as the Executive Officer for the Society of Race, Ethnicity and Religion (2012-17). Dr. De La Torre is a recognized international Fulbright scholar who has taught courses at the Cuernavaca Center for Intercultural Dialogue on Development (Mexico), Indonesian Consortium for Religious Studies (Indonesia), University of Johannesburg (South Africa), Johannes Gutenberg University (Germany). Additionally, he has lectured at Universidad Bíblica Latinoamericana (Costa Rica), The Association for Theological Education in South East Asia (Thailand) and the Council of World Mission (Mexico and Taiwan). Advocating for an ethics of place, De La Torre has taken students on immersion classes to Cuba, Guatemala, the Peruvian Amazon, and the Mexico/U.S. border to walk the migrant trails. Among multiple yearly speaking engagements, he has also been a week-long speaker at the Chautauqua Institute, and the plenary address at the Parliament of World Religions. De La Torre has received several national book awards and is a frequent speaker at national and international scholarly religious events and meetings. He also speaks at churches and nonprofit organizations on the intersection of religion with race, class, gender, and sexuality . In 2020, the American Academy of Religion bestowed on him the Excellence in Teaching Award. The following year, 2021, the American Academy also conferred upon him the Martin E. Marty Public Understanding of Religion Award. De La Torre is the first scholar to receive the two most prestigious awards presented by his guild and the first Latinx to receive either one of them. Check out De La Torre's BLOG for additional resources and readings. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review
Dr. Miguel A. De La Torre, professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, joins the conversation to discuss his new book Resisting Apartheid America: Living the Badass Gospel. We get into what it means to push back against received narratives and roles for the sake of our neighbors as well as the differences (if there are any) between the two major parties in the US, particularly when it comes to upholding a white supremacist viewpoint. As usual there are rabbit trails and some laughs along the way! Order the Book Support Dissident Orthodoxy on Patreon Rate/Review Dissident Orthodoxy on Apple Podcasts Follow Casey's substack
“Having served as a Licensed Minister in 3 denominations, Jan was actively involved in LGBTQ, and Black Lives Matter activism. Jan now works as a Paraeducator at a local elementary school, and speaks to university classes, occasionally preaches, and continues to lead a Bible study for the LGBTQ community at her house as Covid allows. Jan and her wife live in Spokane, Washington, where her kids and grandkids live nearby. Jan and Jeanine love to work in their yard, and travel as much as possible. Jan has a BA in Humanities, a BA in Women and Gender Studies, with a minor in Religion, all from Eastern Washington University, and a Master of Divinity from Iliff School of Theology.” Connect with Jan IG: Exchfamily FB: Jan Shannon Email: jshannon@iliff.edu Book Recommendation Bible and the Transgender Experience: How Scripture Supports Variance
(Recorded live at the American Academy of Religion) Dr. Roberto and Rev. Anna got to spend some time together in Denver, CO during the American Academy of Religion. This event, the largest gathering of academics whose studies are centered on religion, gave us the opportunity to record several episodes with guests that we should all be paying attention to. For each of these guests, we ask them one, big question. This episode introduces you to Philip Butler, Assistant Professor of Theology and Black Posthuman Artificial Intelligence Systems at Iliff School of Theology. We ask Philip the question "what do we mean when we say futures?" ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– To support this podcast, please visit https://activistheology.com/give. Join us on the Activist Theology app To follow Activist Theology on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook: @activistheology To be in touch with Dr. Roberto: roberto@activistheology.com or @drrobertoche To be in touch with Rev. Anna: anna@activistheology.com or @unholyhairetic The Activist Theology Podcast is an Irreverent Media Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
(Recorded live at the American Academy of Religion) Dr. Roberto and Rev. Anna got to spend some time together in Denver, CO during the American Academy of Religion. This event, the largest gathering of academics whose studies are centered on religion, gave us the opportunity to record several episodes with guests that we should all be paying attention to. For each of these guests, we ask them one, big question. This episode introduces you to Philip Butler, Assistant Professor of Theology and Black Posthuman Artificial Intelligence Systems at Iliff School of Theology. We ask Philip the question "what do we mean when we say futures?" ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– To support this podcast, please visit https://activistheology.com/give. Join us on the Activist Theology app To follow Activist Theology on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook: @activistheology To be in touch with Dr. Roberto: roberto@activistheology.com or @drrobertoche To be in touch with Rev. Anna: anna@activistheology.com or @unholyhairetic The Activist Theology Podcast is an Irreverent Media Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
(Recorded live at the American Academy of Religion) Dr. Roberto and Rev. Anna got to spend some time together in Denver, CO during the American Academy of Religion. This event, the largest gathering of academics whose studies are centered on religion, gave us the opportunity to record several episodes with guests that we should all be paying attention to. For each of these guests, we ask them one, big question. This episode introduces you to Ted Vial, Vice President of Innovation, Learning, and Institutional Research at Iliff School of Theology. We ask Ted the question "what do we mean when we say religion?" ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– To support this podcast, please visit https://activistheology.com/give. Join us on the Activist Theology app To follow Activist Theology on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook: @activistheology To be in touch with Dr. Roberto: roberto@activistheology.com or @drrobertoche To be in touch with Rev. Anna: anna@activistheology.com or @unholyhairetic The Activist Theology Podcast is an Irreverent Media Podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chicana/o studies scholar Dr. Adriana Nieto talks to Rev. Dr. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi, Director of the Office of Professional Formation at Iliff School of Theology, about the volume Explore: Vocational Discovery in Ministry (Rowman & Littlefield, 2022), which Rev. Dr. Lizardy-Hajbi co-edited with Matthew Floding. The book is ideal for ministerial leadership students in search of paths to follow. “It's really a book offering options for individuals thinking through, ‘what is my vocation in relation to my identities, my experiences and what I feel are my strengths and my gifts and my passions,'” says Rev. Dr. Lizardy-Hajbi, who is also term assistant professor of leadership and formation at Iliff. The volume includes personal stories from 45 contributors of all backgrounds and professions, serving as a discernment tool that she hopes “expands the imaginations of students rather than create limits'' when it comes to ministerial work by faith leaders, such as pastors, varieties of chaplaincy, clinical pastoral educators, academics, and nonprofit leaders. “[Ministry] is a sacred task no matter what one's beliefs or meaning-making frameworks are,” says Rev. Dr. Lizardy-Hajbi. “It is something that should be considered with care, that is holy, and that is done, I think, in mystery, often because we don't know…where someone is going to end up in a call."
Tiokasin's guest for the full hour is Dr. Tink Tinker. They discuss the 50th anniversary of the publication of "God is Red" by Vine Deloria, Jr. Dr. Tinker is the Clifford Baldridge Emeritus Professor of American Indian Cultures and Religious Traditions at Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He is a citizen of the Osage Nation (wazhazhe) and has been an activist in urban American Indian communities for four decades. He joined the faculty at Iliff School of Theology in 1985 and brought an American Indian perspective to this predominantly euro-christian school. Dr. Tinker is committed to a scholarly endeavor that takes seriously both the liberation of Indian peoples from their historic oppression as colonized communities and the liberation of euro-christian (White) Americans, the historic colonizers and oppressors of Indian peoples, whose self-narrative typically avoids naming the violence committed against Indians in favor of a romance narrative that justifies their euro-christian occupancy of Indian lands. Production Credits: Tiokasin Ghosthorse (Lakota), Host and Executive Producer Liz Hill (Red Lake Ojibwe), Producer Malcolm Burn, Studio Engineer, Radio Kingston, WKNY 1490 AM and 107.9 FM, Kingston, NY Tiokasin Ghosthorse, Audio Editor Music Selections: 1. Song Title: Tahi Roots Mix (First Voices Radio Theme Song) Artist: Moana and the Moa Hunters Album: Tahi (1993) Label: Southside Records (Australia and New Zealand) (00:00:22) 2. Song Title: Once Upon a Time in the West Artist: Dire Straits Album: Once Upon a Time in the West (2007) Label: RCA Records (00:29:47) 3. Song Title: Freedom Artist: Anthony Hamilton & Elayna Boyton Album: Django Unchained (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (2012) Label: Universal Republic / Loma Vista Recordings (00:56:15) AKANTU INSTITUTE Visit Akantu Institute, an institute that Tiokasin founded with a mission of contextualizing original wisdom for troubled times. Go to https://akantuinstitute.org/ to find out more and consider joining his Patreon page at https://www.patreon.com/Ghosthorse.
We continue our conversation about religion, politics, and abortion with biblical scholar, pastor, and professor of New Testament at Iliff School of Theology, Reverend Dr. Eric Smith. Eric and Amanda talk about some of the ways the Bible is used in anti-abortion arguments and how it shapes our society and our cultural expectations. We ask what the Bible can actually teach us to understand about abortion.
In this second episode, Working within the Fragments we hear from Dr. Kristina Lizardy-Hajbi. Kristina shares her perspective on intersectional feminism as a professor and minister and through her various intersectional lenses. Dr. Kristina is the Director of the Office of Professional Formation and Assistant Professor of Leadership and Formation at Iliff School of Theology. She also co-directs the Doctor of Ministry in Prophetic Leadership and coordinates the Certificate in Latinx Studies for the Iliff/DU Joint Ph.D. in the Study of Religion. She is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ and received her MDiv from Iliff and PhD from the University of Colorado in Educational Leadership, Research, and Policy. Kristina's previous ministry roles span the areas of undergraduate multicultural student affairs, hospital chaplaincy, congregational and young adult faith formation, and denominational leadership. Dr. Kristina has extensively worked on de/postcolonial theory, frameworks, and practices. You can access links to her publications on our website.
The University of North Dakota recently announce that it found Native American human remains in storage, and has begun the repatriation process. With that current headline in mind, we offer an encore episode with George “Tink” Tinker, the Clifford Baldridge Emeritus Professor of American Indian Cultures and Religious Traditions at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado, where he was still teaching at the time of this 2014 conversation.
The vast majority of Americans worship the white god—the god of Christian nationalism, white supremacy, domination, patriarchy, wealth, power, and colonization. The god of guns and empire, the god that exists to make white men great again. It shouldn't surprise anyone that powerful white people created a god in their own image, in the image of white men has this god been created. As Dr. Miguel De La Torre responds, “What we say is Christianity today is really an ideology of white supremacy and nationalism…This is what evangelical Christianity is today.” And in service of this false evangelical god, white westerners are blind to the victims of their philosophical and theological fabrication. Our deep-rooted blind spots are so common in white evangelicalism and are further engrained by wealth, history, race, and social standing to a point where the vast majority of Christians in the west are living a version of Christianity that is completely anathema to the historical Jesus. However, if you grew up in non-white spaces, in colonized countries, or in economically challenging environments, odds are your faith looks radically different. Odds are you serve the brown God of the oppressed instead of the white god of MAGA Christianity. Which is just one reason why those of us deconstructing evangelicalism are in such dire need of liberation, liberation from the white god that continues to colonize our hearts and minds. One of the paths toward freedom can be found in the liberation and post-liberation theology movements from Latin America. Liberation theology is a social and political movement attempting to interpret the gospel of Jesus Christ through the lived experiences of oppressed people. Liberation theology has its origins in Latin America in the mid-1950s as socio-economic development created by peasant workers and farming populations who had been driven into desperate poverty. With the economic unrest came political unrest, and military dictators took over many governments in the name of national security, only further marginalizing the poor. But from these oppressive experiences came a theology that drives its legitimacy from the perspective of the poor and oppressed. Liberation theology gave us queer Jesus, black Jesus, immigrant Jesus, and Marxist revolutionary Jesus. It is a version of faith that identifies exclusively with the oppressed.It is ironic then that Latin American liberation theology just might save white people from ourselves, but only if we have the humility to come face to face with our colonial past and present drive for power and domination. This episode deconstructs the white god and dives into other forms of evangelical oppression including gender oppression, LGBTQIA+ marginalization, white supremacy, and nationalistic Christianity. Dr. De La Torre offers a practical way forward in our attempt to free ourselves from the white man's god. BioRev. Dr. Miguel A. De La Torre is Professor of Social Ethics and Latinx Studies at the Iliff School of Theology in Denver, Colorado. He has served as the elected 2012 President of the Society of Christian Ethics and served as the Executive Officer for the Society of Race, Ethnicity and Religion (2012-17). In 2020 the American Academy of Religion bestowed upon the the Excellence in Teaching Award. Dr. De La Torre is a recognized international Fulbright scholar who has taught courses at the Cuernavaca Center for Intercultural Dialogue on Development (Mexico), Indonesian Consortium for Religious Studies (Indonesia), University of Johannesburg (South Africa), Johannes Gutenberg University (Germany). Additionally, he has lectured at Universidad Bíblica Latinoamericana (Costa Rica), The Association for Theological Education in South East Asia (Thailand) and the Council of World Mission (Mexico and Taiwan). Advocating for an ethics of place, De La Torre has taken students on immersion classes to Cuba and the Mexico/U.S. border to walk the migrant trails. Among multiple yearly speaking engagements, he has also been a week-long speaker at the Chautauqua Institute, and the plenary address at the Parliament of World Religions De La Torre has received several national book awards and is a frequent speaker at national and international scholarly religious events and meetings. He also speaks at churches and nonprofit organizations on topics concerning the intersection of race, class, gender, and sexuality with religion. In 2020, the American Academy of Religion bestowed on him the Excellence in Teaching Award. The following year, 2021, the American Academy also conferred upon him the Martin E. Marty Public Understanding of Religion Award. De La Torre is the first scholar to receive the two most prestigious awards presented by his guild and the first Latinx to receive either one of them.Quotes:“For white people to get saved, they have to learn how to worship the black Jesus.”“For our economy to function, men of color have to mostly be unemployed.”“I have to constantly be suspicious of my worldview.”“White evangelicalism must be crucified. It has to die.”“Evangelical Christianity has become an apologist and supporter of the rise of U.S. empire.”“The death of Christianity is because of evangelicalism.”“What does the Gospel have to say to the oppressed?”When I worship the white god, I am worshipping a philosophical and theological position that justifies oppression.” “Badass Christianity is a radical implementation of the Gospel message.”“I believe in whatever the poor believe in.”“All forms of oppression really begins with gender oppression.”Please follow us on social media (use the buttons below) and help us get the word out! (Also, please don't hesitate to use any of these channels or email to contact us with any questions, concerns, or feedback.)If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a rating and a review
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