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Send us a textIt's time to walk through some super interesting studies that have recently been published--and see what they say about the intersection of infidelity and beliefs in male hierarchy. Keith joins Sheila to react to the studies!OUR SPONSOR:Thank you to our sponsor, Zondervan and the book Saving Face. The church needs to get away from harmful tropes, and call us towards true community based on vulnerability and safety. Aimee Byrd points the way! TO SUPPORT US: Join our Patreon for as little as $5 a month to support our workFor tax deductible donations in the U.S., support Good Fruit Faith Initiative through the Bosko FoundationAnd check out our Merch, or any of our courses!Join our email list!LINKS MENTIONED:The Marriage You WantStudy on how affairs aren't linked to sex frequency, and the post about itStudy on how sexism affects infidelityPower to Flirt StudyDifferences in Solitary vs. Dyadic Sexual Desire studyStudy on Heroism by GenderThe IFS World Map 2019 (abuse stats are on pp. 35&36)John Piper on how complementarianism protects women, and Rachel Held Evans' responseOTHER RESEARCH DEEP DIVE PODCASTS:Pink and Blue Brains? What the research says about gender and brain differencesWhy Sex Is Like Chef BoyardeeNew Research on Obligation SexNew Research on Join Sheila at Bare Marriage.com!Check out her books: The Great Sex Rescue She Deserves Better The Good Girl's Guide to Great Sex and The Good Guy's Guide to Great Sex And she has an Orgasm Course and a Libido course too!Check out all her courses, FREE resources, social media, books, and so much more at Sheila's LinkTree.
In this Easter message, Kristine Caliger explores the multifaceted nature of the gospel—not as a single answer or formula, but as a mosaic of stories and perspectives. Drawing from parables, scripture, and the writings of Rachel Held Evans and Paul, she weaves a compelling vision of Jesus as both radically generous and courageously just. This episode invites us to embrace the tension in our stories, trust in the harmony of our diversity, and find unity in love, justice, and grace.Kindred Church is a Christian community gathering in Reno, Nevada. We are a 501c3 non-profit organization. If you believe in the ministry of Kindred Church and would like to support our efforts, visit kindredchurchreno.com/donate to make a contribution. If you'd like to join us for a gathering, please visit kindredchurchreno.com/gatherings for our location and service times.Thanks for listening.
Description: Jeff Chu, an award-winning journalist, author, and "sort-of-kind-of farmer," joins Jen on the For the Love podcast to discuss his book, Good Soil: The Education of an Accidental Farmhand. In the book, Jeff shares stories from his time at “The Farminary”, a twenty-one-acre working farm at Princeton's Theological Seminary, where students explore life's biggest questions while cultivating the earth. Jeff reflects on his own struggles with faith, identity, and the expectations placed upon him as a gay man raised in a conservative Christian environment. His journey reveals the challenges of cultivating, not just plants, but also a spiritual life that is authentic, evolving, and inclusive. In this conversation, Jeff, Jen and Amy discuss: What Jeff learned at the “Farminary” about creating “good soil,” drawing lessons from the rhythms of growth, decay, and regeneration that define life on the land Finding moments of grace and healing. Challenging traditional interpretations of the biblical Parable of the Sower Exploring faith, not as something static, but as something that evolves. Thought-provoking Quotes: “God's love is that lavish and it's there for you. And it doesn't come with the conditions that you might have. It doesn't require you to do anything more than you've already done. It just requires you to be. God's love is big enough to hold that, and your mess, and your beauty, and your frailty, and anything else you might bring to God.” – Jeff Chu “I see folks trying to figure out how to create belonging, not just for themselves, but also for others, and being willing to ask those tough questions out loud, and being brave enough to say, I don't know, but I wonder. Being bold enough to point out not just the ugly things, but also to name the beautiful and hopeful things. Those are all things that give me hope.” – Jeff Chu #JeffChu #GoodSoil #ForTheLovePodcast #SpiritualJourney Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Community First Village / Mobile Loaves and Fishes - https://mlf.org/community-first/ Genesis Gardens - https://mlf.org/genesis-gardens/ 7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess by Jen Hatmaker - https://amzn.to/4kZZmjN Actually Believing God Loves You Changes Everything: Jeff Chu - https://jenhatmaker.com/podcasts/series-16/actually-believing-god-loves-you-changes-everything-jeff-chu/ Good Soil: The Education of an Accidental Farmhand by Jeff Chu - https://amzn.to/4kXozLJ Wholehearted Faith by Rachel Held Evans and Jeff Chu - https://amzn.to/4iZlOrA Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian's Pilgrimage in Search of God in America by Jeff Chu - https://amzn.to/4bZH91N March: Book One by John Lewis - https://amzn.to/4c6xmXI Travel and Leisure magazine editor-at-large - https://www.travelandleisure.com/author/jeff-chu Small Things Like These by Claire Keegan - https://amzn.to/446LUo5 Padraig O'Tuama, poet - https://www.padraigotuama.com/ Kitchen Hymns by Padraig O'Tuama - https://amzn.to/4ccPFdV Maggie Smith, poet - https://maggiesmithpoet.com/ In The Shelter: Finding a Home in the World by Padraig O'Tuama - https://amzn.to/4ccNNBL Jeff Chu's Good Soil Book Tour - https://byjeffchu.com/tour Guest's Links: Website - https://byjeffchu.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/byjeffchu Twitter - https://x.com/jeffchu Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/byjeffchu Substack - https://byjeffchu.com/contact#substack Connect with Jen! Jen's Website - https://jenhatmaker.com/ Jen's Instagram - https://instagram.com/jenhatmaker Jen's Twitter - https://twitter.com/jenHatmaker/ Jen's Facebook - https://facebook.com/jenhatmaker Jen's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/JenHatmaker The For the Love Podcast is presented by Audacy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Send us a textThis week's meditation is inspired by Luke 24 & a beloved quote by Rachel Held Evans. It was featured on a previous Meditation Challenge simply called “Lent”. The full 48-day challenge can be found on Patreon Christian Meditation content & resources:Harkening Deer | Christian MeditationPatreon (Best way to support!)Insight Timer (FREE Christian Meditations!!) More Meditation Content & Resources:Harkening Deer | Universally Inclusive MeditationAura (30-Day Guest Pass to the full app!)Other ways to support:Donate to Harkening DeerCheck out Harkening Deer on Instagram. LinkTree for more: Sean J Stevens.Harkening Deer. Christian. Meditation. Podcast. ================================================================ Additional sound effects from https://www.zapsplat.comSupport the showSupport the show
This week, the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego look at the well-known story of the prodigal son from Luke 15:11-32 (also known as the forgotten son) who returns home after dishonoring his father, family, and cultural practices. Rev. Hannah views the parable as a story of repentance. But Rev. Trudy brings forth commentary from Dr. Amy Jill Levine that points in another direction. Regardless of how you view the son, the female pastors agree that the highlight of the story is the unequivocal love brought forth by the father, and a demonstration of undeserving grace. Some Christians try to rename the story “the loving father story” but when you look closely at all three of the primary characters – there are major flaws and brokenness in them all: the resentment of the older brother, the flippancy and extravagance of the younger brother, and the aloofness of the father. And we leave with the story unresolved – much like the struggles in our own lives, providing us an invitation to figure out how to end our story and estrangements. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Love: What do you think about this parable, if interpreted as a story where all the characters are flawed? What expressions of love do you see in this story? Where do you find the hope of faith in this story? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
This week, the female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego look at the well-known story of the prodigal son from Luke 15:11-32 (also known as the forgotten son) who returns home after dishonoring his father, family, and cultural practices. Rev. Hannah views the parable as a story of repentance. But Rev. Trudy brings forth commentary from Dr. Amy Jill Levine that points in another direction. Regardless of how you view the son, the female pastors agree that the highlight of the story is the unequivocal love brought forth by the father, and a demonstration of undeserving grace. Some Christians try to rename the story “the loving father story” but when you look closely at all three of the primary characters – there are major flaws and brokenness in them all: the resentment of the older brother, the flippancy and extravagance of the younger brother, and the aloofness of the father. And we leave with the story unresolved – much like the struggles in our own lives, providing us an invitation to figure out how to end our story and estrangements. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Love: What do you think about this parable, if interpreted as a story where all the characters are flawed? What expressions of love do you see in this story? Where do you find the hope of faith in this story? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
Chu serves as an editor-at-large at Travel+Leisure, teacher in residence at Crosspointe Church in North Carolina, and parish associate for storytelling and witness at the First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley in California. He is the author of Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian's Pilgrimage in Search of God in America (Harper, 2013) and Good Soil: The Education of an Accidental Farmhand (Convergent/Penguin Random House, 2025). He is also the co-author, with the late Rachel Held Evans, of the New York Times bestseller Wholehearted Faith. Chu is a former Time staff writer and Fast Company editor whose work has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Modern Farmer. In his weekly newsletter, “Notes of a Make-Believe Farmer,” Chu writes about spirituality, gardening, food, travel, and culture. An ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, he lives with his husband, Tristan, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Taylor is a New York Times best-selling author, teacher, and Episcopal priest. After serving three congregations—two in downtown Atlanta and one in rural Clarkesville, Georgia—she became the first Butman Professor of Religion and Philosophy at Piedmont College, where she taught until 2017. Since then, she has spoken at events with wonderful names like Wild Goose, Evolving Faith, Awakening Soul, and Gladdening Light, but her favorite gig is being the full-time caretaker of a farm in the foothills of the Appalachians with her husband Ed and very many animals. Her new book, Coming Down to Earth, from Convergent Books, will be out in 2026. Chu serves as an editor-at-large at Travel+Leisure, teacher in residence at Crosspointe Church in North Carolina, and parish associate for storytelling and witness at the First Presbyterian Church of Berkeley in California. He is the author of Does Jesus Really Love Me?: A Gay Christian's Pilgrimage in Search of God in America and Good Soil: The Education of an Accidental Farmhand. He is also the co-author, with the late Rachel Held Evans, of the New York Times bestseller Wholehearted Faith. Chu is a former Time staff writer and Fast Company editor whose work has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Modern Farmer. In his weekly newsletter, “Notes of a Make-Believe Farmer,” Chu writes about spirituality, gardening, food, travel, and culture. An ordained minister in the Reformed Church in America, he lives with his husband, Tristan, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
In this episode of Faith for Normal People, Pete and Jared are joined by Matthew Paul Turner, co-author of the new kids' book “What Is the Bible?” alongside the late Rachel Held Evans. Matthew opens up about how parenting has shaped him, from questioning his own beliefs to embracing a more open, loving approach. He talks about learning from his kids, unlearning old mindsets, and creating a space where curiosity and kindness lead the way. Show Notes → https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com/episode-55-matthew-paul-turner-the-challenge-of-raising-kids-with-the-bible/ Watch this episode on YouTube → https://youtu.be/YPo8gCpAxTg ********** This episode is sponsored by Greenlight. Greenlight is a debit card and money app made for families: parents can send money to their kids and keep an eye on kids' spending and saving, while kids and teens build money confidence and lifelong financial literacy skills. Sign up for Greenlight today at greenlight.com/normalpeople. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Absolutely nothing compares to the joy that comes from making our home in the love of God through loving one another. Join us this Sunday as Zach W. Lambert talks about connecting with God and each other.We are here and live-streaming every Sunday at 9:30am CT. If you'd like to connect with Restore, go to www.restoreaustin.org/connect.Resources Referenced:https://worldhappiness.report/ed/2025/executive-summary/ Irresistible by Andy StanleyWholehearted Faith by Rachel Held Evans
During this week’s Perspectives Pastors Podcast, Rev. Hannah and Rev. Brittany focus on the Story of Tranquility, as inspired by Matthew 8:23-27, the story of Jesus calming the storm – giving orders to the winds and the lake. It’s part of the multi-episode conversation the female pastors of First United Methodist Church have been having about The Stories That Save Us. Through this digital Bible study, the two reverends give their perspective on how they would act if they were in the storm with Jesus and explain what they think this miracle story represents. They discuss: How crossing the lake was an allegory for the early Christian church and that by answering the call to be Christian, you may face more frequent storms. The communal experience of life’s storms and how they affect individuals throughout a community at different levels. How we can foster a culture of tranquility within our communities. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Tranquility: What are the aspects, signs, and expressions of tranquility? How does a community find peace during a storm? What is the relationship between faith and fear? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
During this week’s Perspectives Pastors Podcast, Rev. Hannah and Rev. Brittany focus on the Story of Tranquility, as inspired by Matthew 8:23-27, the story of Jesus calming the storm – giving orders to the winds and the lake. It’s part of the multi-episode conversation the female pastors of First United Methodist Church have been having about The Stories That Save Us. Through this digital Bible study, the two reverends give their perspective on how they would act if they were in the storm with Jesus and explain what they think this miracle story represents. They discuss: How crossing the lake was an allegory for the early Christian church and that by answering the call to be Christian, you may face more frequent storms. The communal experience of life’s storms and how they affect individuals throughout a community at different levels. How we can foster a culture of tranquility within our communities. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Tranquility: What are the aspects, signs, and expressions of tranquility? How does a community find peace during a storm? What is the relationship between faith and fear? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
In a world that often feels overwhelming, where systemic challenges can paralyze us into inaction, I sat down with Jeff Chu - a journalist, preacher and storyteller who understands that transformation happens through small, beautiful acts of grace. Jeff's journey is anything but ordinary. From the bustling newsrooms of Time and Fast Company to the contemplative acres of Princeton's farminary, he discovered profound wisdom in the most unexpected place: a messy, rotting compost pile. There, amid liquefying spinach and decomposing vegetables, Jeff learned that death and resurrection aren't just theological concepts - they're living, breathing realities happening beneath our feet. Jeff, like all of us navigating this world, has every reason to be cynical. Instead, he chooses love. He chooses curiosity. He invites us to channel our anger not into destruction, but into small, ordinary graces that can fundamentally reshape our world. In this conversation, we'll explore how we might move from transactional relationships - with land, with each other, with God - to something more beautiful. We'll talk about rest, about poetry, about seeing each other as God's beloved creation. So join us, open your heart, and prepare to be transformed by a radical vision of grace. Jeff Chu is an award-winning journalist and editor-at-large at Travel+Leisure. He is the author of Does Jesus Really Love Me? and the co-author, with the late Rachel Held Evans, of the New York Times bestseller Wholehearted Faith. Chu is a former Time staff writer and Fast Company editor whose work has also appeared in The New York Times Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and Modern Farmer. In his weekly newsletter, “Notes of a Make-Believe Farmer,” Chu writes about spirituality, gardening, food, travel, and culture. He lives with his husband, Tristan, in Grand Rapids, Michigan.Jeff's Book:Good SoilSubscribe to Our Substack: Shifting CultureConnect with Joshua: jjohnson@allnations.usGo to www.shiftingculturepodcast.com to interact and donate. Every donation helps to produce more podcasts for you to enjoy.Follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Threads, Bluesky or YouTubeConsider Giving to the podcast and to the ministry that my wife and I do around the world. Just click on the support the show link belowEmail jjohnson@allnations.us, so we can get your creative project off the ground! Support the show
In this episode of Perspectives Pastors Podcast, the female pastors of the First United Methodist Church of San Diego continue their exploration of The Stories That Save Us – some of the favorite stories of the gospels. Today’s conversation is about The Story of Cooperation – inspired by the story of feeding of the multitude, the only miracle story that appears in all four gospels. Rev. Trudy and Rev. Hannah look at the version that appears in the Gospel of John 6:1-14 (CEB) and the disciples’ initial dismissal of available contributions, stating the available food won’t be nearly enough to feed the crowd. But through Jesus’ love, leadership, and compassion, the assembled community bands together in cooperation to feed each other – an action that goes against our selfish nature. Through this digital Bible study, the two female pastors discuss: The potential impact of a community-centered life The purpose of the miracle stories and how to interpret them when you have a scientific mindset The role of prophets as Divine perspective of human events We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Cooperation: What do you think about the miracle stories in the Gospels? What is the difference between sharing a meal and feeding the thousands? What is the most impactful experience of cooperation that you’ve witnessed? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
In this episode of Perspectives Pastors Podcast, the female pastors of the First United Methodist Church of San Diego continue their exploration of The Stories That Save Us – some of the favorite stories of the gospels. Today’s conversation is about The Story of Cooperation – inspired by the story of feeding of the multitude, the only miracle story that appears in all four gospels. Rev. Trudy and Rev. Hannah look at the version that appears in the Gospel of John 6:1-14 (CEB) and the disciples’ initial dismissal of available contributions, stating the available food won’t be nearly enough to feed the crowd. But through Jesus’ love, leadership, and compassion, the assembled community bands together in cooperation to feed each other – an action that goes against our selfish nature. Through this digital Bible study, the two female pastors discuss: The potential impact of a community-centered life The purpose of the miracle stories and how to interpret them when you have a scientific mindset The role of prophets as Divine perspective of human events We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion. Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Cooperation: What do you think about the miracle stories in the Gospels? What is the difference between sharing a meal and feeding the thousands? What is the most impactful experience of cooperation that you’ve witnessed? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
In this episode of Perspectives Pastors Podcast, Rev. Trudy and Rev. Brittany dive into Mark 2:1-12 – the story of the four men who bring a paralytic to Jesus … by lowering him through a roof. It’s a bold move that requires physical strength, courage, and strategic thinking. And the result is healing and a release from condemnation. It’s a story of advocacy that the female pastors believe everyone can apply to their faith stories today. to our spiritual stories today. They look at the story from multiple angles, talking about: Societal beliefs on disease, sin, healing, and forgiveness. The true meaning of advocacy. How advocacy can bring about healing and miracle work today. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion (head over to patreon.com/fumcsd to learn more!). Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Advocates: What does it cost to be an advocate? For whom are you willing to be an advocate? Why does the healing of some people make others angry? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
In this episode of Perspectives Pastors Podcast, Rev. Trudy and Rev. Brittany dive into Mark 2:1-12 – the story of the four men who bring a paralytic to Jesus … by lowering him through a roof. It’s a bold move that requires physical strength, courage, and strategic thinking. And the result is healing and a release from condemnation. It’s a story of advocacy that the female pastors believe everyone can apply to their faith stories today. to our spiritual stories today. They look at the story from multiple angles, talking about: Societal beliefs on disease, sin, healing, and forgiveness. The true meaning of advocacy. How advocacy can bring about healing and miracle work today. We invite you to continue the conversation with friends and family, joining our in-person Convergence discussion group, or visiting our Patreon community where you can unlock more content and inspiration while engaging in online discussion (head over to patreon.com/fumcsd to learn more!). Here are some questions for you to ponder, as you continue to explore The Story of Advocates: What does it cost to be an advocate? For whom are you willing to be an advocate? Why does the healing of some people make others angry? During this season of Lent, we have additional spiritual growth opportunities to help you explore The Stories that Save Us: Free Journal: Finding Your Stories of Faith – continue investigating each week’s scripture with guided prompts that help you uncover your personal faith stories. Book Study: Wholehearted Faith – Join the FUMCSD pastors in reading the stories of Rachel Held Evans as she wrestled with faith. Then join or host a watch party to hear Revs. Trudy, Hannah, and Brittany’s thoughts and hear the thoughts of those around you. Community Gathering: The Stories That Save Us – Live in San Diego? Join us in person to reflect on your Lent experience.
Kelsey Hanson Woodruff is a PhD candidate in Religion at Harvard University. Her dissertation is a historical and ethnographic study of digital communities of post-evangelical feminists in the twenty-first century. She is also writing a biography of millennial author Rachel Held Evans. Hanson Woodruff's work has been supported by the Louisville Institute, the SSRC's Religion, Spirituality and Democratic Renewal fellowship, and the Weatherhead Center. Her research and teaching interests include evangelicalism and post-evangelicalism, religion and gender, and religion and American politics. Visit Kelsey Hanson Woodruff online: https://www.kelseyhansonwoodruff.com/ Visit tge 2025 Sacred Writes Carpenter Cohort online: https://www.sacred-writes.org/carpenter-cohort-2025-jan Seasons 1-8 of Sacred Writes/Classical Ideas episodes: https://linktr.ee/classicalideas
El 27 de abril del año 2019, Rachel Held Evans, una reconocida escritora cristiana, falleció repentinamente a los 37 años. Su muerte dejó un gran vacío en la comunidad de fe. Sin embargo, su legado de esperanza y búsqueda de la verdad sigue impactando vidas. Aunque su historia terrenal terminó, su influencia permanece.La muerte parece el final, pero para los que creemos en Cristo, es solo el comienzo de la eternidad. Jesús venció la muerte para darnos vida eterna, y esa es nuestra mayor esperanza. No importa cuán difícil sea la despedida, podemos confiar en que la muerte no tiene la última palabra.Si has perdido a alguien querido o temes el futuro, recuerda que en Cristo, la vida no termina con la muerte. Él ha preparado un lugar para nosotros, donde no habrá más llanto ni dolor. Nuestra historia no termina aquí, porque en Él, la vida continúa para siempre. La Biblia dice en Juan 11:25: "Le dijo Jesús: Yo soy la resurrección y la vida; el que cree en mí, aunque esté muerto, vivirá" (RV1960).
El 27 de abril del año 2019, Rachel Held Evans, una reconocida escritora cristiana, falleció repentinamente a los 37 años. Su muerte dejó un gran vacío en la comunidad de fe. Sin embargo, su legado de esperanza y búsqueda de la verdad sigue impactando vidas. Aunque su historia terrenal terminó, su influencia permanece. La muerte parece el final, pero para los que creemos en Cristo, es solo el comienzo de la eternidad. Jesús venció la muerte para darnos vida eterna, y esa es nuestra mayor esperanza. No importa cuán difícil sea la despedida, podemos confiar en que la muerte no tiene la última palabra. Si has perdido a alguien querido o temes el futuro, recuerda que en Cristo, la vida no termina con la muerte. Él ha preparado un lugar para nosotros, donde no habrá más llanto ni dolor. Nuestra historia no termina aquí, porque en Él, la vida continúa para siempre. La Biblia dice en Juan 11:25: "Le dijo Jesús: Yo soy la resurrección y la vida; el que cree en mí, aunque esté muerto, vivirá" (RV1960).
Throughout December, we will be playing some of our best episode reruns. While this isn't an official "top 5," it's a pretty above average one. Up next is episode is a bittersweet one, as it features Rachel Held Evans from episode #035.If you want to call in to the Bonus Show, leave a voicemail at (530) 332-8020. We would love to get to your calls!Today's Sponsor: Religionless Studios is a Progressive Christian video Bible commentary on YouTube. Every single Sunday the channel will move comprehensively and compassionately interpret the Bible through the lens of liberation theology. In addition to the YouTube channel, Religionless also has devotionals, study guides, and a Discord community that are all accessible via Patreon.LINKSQuoirCast on PatreonQuoirCast on Patheos
Joel Michael Herbert is an artist, coach, speaker, and musician. Joel opens up about his profound and often challenging journey from growing up in a conservative religious environment to becoming a worship pastor, and eventually deconstructing his faith. Through personal stories and key influences like Brennan Manning, Donald Miller, and Rachel Held Evans, Joel shares how he navigated through doubt, academic scrutiny, and a shifting theological landscape. Together, we discuss the impact of the 2016 election, the ongoing quest for truth, and the importance of holding beliefs loosely. The conversation underscores the complexities of faith, growth, and transformation, offering you a raw and genuine exploration of spiritual evolution.To learn more about Joel's band, The World in Lights, click here!Joel is all over social media, too! You can search for Joel Michael Herbert on most platforms. You can leave a review by clicking here! Honoring the Journey is hosted, produced and edited by Leslie Nease and the artwork for the show is also created by Leslie Nease.Interested in working with Leslie as your Life/Faith Transitions Coach? Check out her website and learn more about what she offers! https://www.leslieneasecoaching.comIf you'd like to be a part of the Honoring the Journey Team as a Patreon Supporter, please check it out at this link!If you are looking for community as you deconstruct or just a place to go and enjoy the company of people who are seekers, learners and who are looking to connect with the Divine without religious baggage, please join the Private Facebook Community! Leslie is very passionate about connection and community, so if that sounds like you, please come join us!
The Grown-Up Catholicism series wraps up with an episode on continuing education. As in each episode in the series, this one is descriptive not prescriptive in that I'll model my own discernment on these issues with scripture, contemplation and prayer but I'll never direct your grown-up Catholic choice as that's between you and the Lord! I hope this episode is a blessing to you, thanks for giving it a listen. If you'd like to connect with me, find me on Instagram, at my website, or on Substack. If you'd like to help support this podcast financially, there's a way to do just that on my page at buymeacoffee.com! Thanks for sharing, subscribing, rating, and reviewing, as this helps our community to grow. Thanks as always to my friend, Peter Vaughan-Vail, for providing the beautiful harp music you hear in this and every episode. Here are some resources I hope will help you to engage with this week's topic in a deeper way for yourself: 1. The Bible Project - helpful videos and other content 2. Article: Lectio Divina beginner guide from Busted Halo 3. My website, kerrycampbell.org - find podcasts, transcripts, additional writings and more. Check out the show notes of each Raised Catholic episode for lots more resources. 4. A few authors/speakers/podcasters I recommend: C.S. Lewis, Thomas Merton, Kate Bowler, Rachel Held Evans, Fr. Richard Rohr, Shannan Martin, Henri Nouwen, Emily P. Freeman, Parker Palmer, Anne Lamott, Fr. Greg Boyle, Sarah Bessey, Eugene Peterson, Beth Moore, Timothy Keller, Annie F. Downs, Carlos Whitaker
I'm really looking forward to sharing my sermon, Grace at Work, with you this Sunday. The sermon is inspired by a sermon by Rachel Held Evans, one of my favorite theologians, and by Jesus' teaching in Luke 17 on having "faith the size of a mustard seed." Jesus essentially says, "If you have faith the size of a mustard seed (and you do!), you'll be able to get through just about anything!" I've enjoyed working on this message, and I cannot wait to share it with you.
Emmy and Natalia answer a listener question about communion - what it's for, who it's for, and why we do it. We also get introduce a new segment called “What are Christians mad about this week” and Emmy gives us another fun fact in Christian history. Links and Notes: Books talked about in this episode: “Eat This Bread” by Sara Miles, “Searching for Sunday” by Rachel Held Evans www.facebook.com/groups/cafeteriachristian www.patreon.com/cafeteriachristian
We're exploring the complexities and challenges of the church. Trying to engage honest conversations about church hurt and spiritual abuse, acknowledging both the inevitable pain and the unacceptable trauma inflicted by religious institutions. Through these discussions, we're seeking to create a space for hope and healing, emphasizing that while the church is flawed, it remains a place where Jesus resides and where restoration can be found. References: "Spiritual abuse is a distortion and exploitation of spiritual authority to manipulate, control, use, or harm others, mostly through shame and fear. Spiritual abuse include intolerance for questions and doubts, using the Bible to arouse fear and rigid “us vs. them” binaries, and leaders who demand unwavering loyalty, often threatening anyone who doesn’t comply with being cut off from the community or God." Rachael Clinton Chen “This is the church. Here she is. Lovely, irregular, sometimes sick and sometimes well. This is the body-like-no-other that God has shaped and placed in the world. Jesus lives here; this is his soul’s address. There is a lot to be thankful for, all things considered. She has taken a beating, the church. Every day she meets the gates of hell and she prevails. Every day she serves, stumbles, injures, and repairs. That she has healed is an underrated miracle. That she gives birth is beyond reckoning. Maybe it’s time to make peace with her. Maybe it’s time to embrace her, flawed as she is.” Rachel Held Evans
You may have heard the term ex-vangelical. An ex-vangelical is someone who formerly identified as an evangelical, but no longer does so. The phenomenon has created a sub-genre of books from memoirs – such as those by Josh Harris, Rachel Held Evans, and others -- to more journalistic accounts, such as Sarah McCammon's “The Ex-Vangelicals.” But is there really a groundswell of people leaving evangelicalism? Are these books fair representations of evangelicalism? Is the rejection of the ex-vangelicals really a rejection of Christianity, or a rejection of a certain brand of evangelicalism defined more by culture and politics than theology? These are questions Miles Smith set out to answer. He read many of the ex-vangelical books and wrote a helpful article about it called “Reading The Exvangelicals” for Mere Orthodoxy. Miles Smith is a historian by training. He attended university at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina, and got a Ph.D. from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. He now teaches at Hillsdale College. But he has come on strong in recent years as a public intellectual. I have found his commentaries helpful and highly readable. In addition to Mere Orthodoxy, he has written for The Gospel Coalition, Public Discourse, The Federalist, and The University Bookman. The producer for today's program is Jeff McIntosh. We get database, editorial, and other support from Christina Darnell, Kim Roberts, Casey Suddeth, and Stephen Dubarry. Please join me on Friday for our round up of the week's news, with my co-host Natasha Cowden. Until then, may God bless you.
From 2018 - This is my memorable interview with writer Matthew Paul Turner - talking about the experience of finishing a beautiful children's picture book by Rachel Held Evans titled "What is God like?" after that renowned author unexpectedly died before she had completed what turned out to be her final book.
This Sunday in worship, I will deliver the sermon "Vulnerability is Not a Weakness," based on Mark 6:30-34, 53-56. In the biblical texts, Jesus shows deep compassion for the crowd of folks who are spiritually and physically hungry. He also demonstrates kindness toward his disciples who are overwhelmed by fear. Even though he must have been bone-tired from previous work, he found a way to teach and demonstrated "compassion for them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd." Vulnerability is a strength. The theologian Rachel Held Evans notes, "But without...vulnerability, real friendships cannot grow and real ideas cannot flourish in the good soil of a diverse, engaged community." I think I can hear some of you saying, "Amen!"
“One of the things about practices that I love is this notion of it's not perfect. I haven't got it mastered, just by the very word, it's implied that I'm working it into my life and out of my life and through my life, almost like in my mind, I'm picturing like a woman who's like kneading it into bread dough. And so then there's the room. There's room to play. There's room to set it aside for a time. There's room to reimagine some of these practices. There's room to expand our notions of belonging and spirituality and faithfulness of our place in the world. And then that to me then opened up and almost reintroduced some of those things that maybe I had once rejected. And thought, well, there's no room for me here. And whether it's prayer, or generosity, or whatever else, it's like, no, I think that there's some good practices here. And I think there's a way to do this in a way that looks like being for things instead of just against things like we already talked about. But then what does it look like to have some room for mistakes and for learning and for humility? And even some play, I think.” So says Sarah Bessey, the author or editor of five books, including Field Notes for the Wilderness: Practices for an Evolving Faith. Sarah writes most prominently about leaving her evangelical upbringing and working through the deconstruction of her religious beliefs to create something that feels more true to her in its wake—as part of this, she co-founded the Evolving Faith community with some of her friends, including the wonderful and late Rachel Held Evans. Bessey writes prolifically about what it means to connect with her idea of God in a bigger and more expansive way—one that has moved from Simplicity, to Complexity, to Perplexity, to Harmony. In addition to Field Notes for the Wilderness, Sarah is also the editor of the New York Times bestseller A Rhythm of Prayer and Jesus Feminist: An Invitation to Revisit the Bible's View of Women. In today's conversation we talked about ideas and processes Sarah holds tenderly, including a shift from peace-keeping to peace-making and trying to articulate a vision of what she is for rather than who she is against. There is much in this conversation to which we can all relate. MORE FROM SARAH BESSEY: Field Notes for the Wilderness: Practices for an Evolving Faith A Rhythm of Prayer: A Collection of Meditations for Renewal Out of Sorts: Making Peace with an Evolving Faith Jesus Feminist: An Invitation to Revisit the Bible's View of Women Follow Sarah on Instagram Subscribe to Sarah's Newsletter Evolving Faith Sarah's Website To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In today's episode, I give you a sneak peek into the overarching structure of my new book, The Artist's Joy, and share a bit about the meaning behind its central metaphor. I also chat with Rebe Huntman, author and multi-passionate artist, who shares her Artist's Oath. Links: The original Artist's Oath podcast Pre-order Merideth's book “The Artist's Joy” Connect with Rebe on IG Pre-order Rebe's book, “My Mother in Havana” Join “The Artist's Joy” Launch Team Rebe quoted the following artists in her Artist's Oath: Elizabeth Gilbert, Emily Dickinson, Rumi, Buckminster Fuller, Maira Kalman, Ocean Vuong, & Rachel Held Evans.
In this episode, we have a conversation with theologian, podcaster, YouTuber, and King of #Exvangelical Twitter, Mason Mennenga!! Mason shares about listening to VeggieTales CDs and other typical evangelical kid/teen experiences (conferences, youth group, all the ccm!) he had as the Good Christian Boy. In college, he started researching what the Bible actually said about sexual ethics and orientation, how we are even supposed to approach reading the Bible (seriously does not equal literally), as well as looking into other doubts/questions he had. He discovered the Progressive Christian Cinematic Universe and Process Theology and went down the lovely slippery slope. Mason gives the best definition of process theology April has ever heard (there's much more to it but these are the two key points): the future is open to all kinds of possibilities, and everything is in relationship with each other. Mason hopes in his podcasts and other content to be what Rachel Held Evans was to him and so many people: a person who gives us space to question and explore, who vulnerably shares stories in the hopes that it lets other people know they are not alone. You can find Mason on Instagram and Twitter @masonmennenga. You can find links to all the wonderful things he does here. We have merch! Get your Bible Dyke Energy Tee and more here: https://www.redbubble.com/people/rtgardenpodcast/shop Our social media: @reclaimingthegarden on Insta, @RtGardenPodcast on Twitter, and Reclaiming the Garden on Facebook. Our personal accounts: @thatpunchabletheaternerd, @April_TheWriter (April is on Twitter and Insta). Also, our podcast account follows a bunch of awesome folks + podcasts in the exvangelical/deconstruction world and progressive Christian world, so if you're looking for more resources, that's a great place to start!
As we celebrate all of the wonderful people who mother in any way, I'm bringing you an older episode this week. It's number 72: The Spiritual Practice of Mothering, and I pray it's a blessing to you. Thanks for keeping the world spinning! If you'd like to connect with me, find me on Instagram, at my website, or on Substack. If you'd like to help support this podcast financially, there's a way to do just that on my page at buymeacoffee.com! Thanks for sharing, subscribing, rating, and reviewing, as this helps our community to grow. Thanks as always to my friend, Peter Vaughan-Vail, for providing the beautiful harp music you hear in this and every episode. Here are some resources to help you dig into this week's topic on your own: 1. Song: A Mother Never Rests, by Lori McKenna 2. Scriptural references to God as mother, from womensordination.org 3. Song: Mary, by Patty Griffin 4. Writer Laura Fanucci, writing @thismessygrace and on her blog, Mothering Spirit: Everyday Parenting as Spiritual Practice 5. Raised Catholic episode: Mother Mary 6. Podcast: Abiding Together, part 1 of a 4-part series on spiritual motherhood 7. Song: Ave Maria by Franz Biebl, performed by Chanticleer 8. Memoir: Looking for Mary (The Blessed Mother and Me), by Beverly Donofrio 9. Memoir: Glitter and Glue, by Kelly Corrigan 10. Children's Book: What is God Like?, by Rachel Held Evans and Matthew Paul Turner 11. Podcast: Kelly Corrigan Wonders with guest Dr. Ariel Trost on Intentional, Self Aware Parenting 12: IG follow: Pamela Henkleman: Coach for Midlife Moms
/> ### MESSAGE NOTESBecause of Love | Partnership in Mission | Week 4 | May 5th, 2024Teacher: Dave Brown /> On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. For John baptized with[a] water, but in a few days you will be baptized with[b] the Holy Spirit.” Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight.— Acts 1:4-9 /> Power because we're going to need it. /> What does it mean to be a witness? /> We have over spiritualized our salvation as well as the mission of God. Millions of Christians in many parts of the world still think the cross means “Jesus died for my sins so that I can go to heaven.” The “mission” of the church, then, becomes a matter of explaining to more and more people that he dies for them too and urging them to believe this, so that they too can go to heaven…That way of looking at the gospel and mission both shrinks and distorts what the Bible actually teaches.—N.T. WrightCan we seriously believe that God would establish a plan for us that essentially bypasses the awesome needs of present human life and leaves human character untouched? Would he leave us even temporarily marooned with no help in our kind of world, with our kind of problems: psychological, emotional, social, and global? Can we believe that the essence of Christian faith and salvation covers nothing but death and after? Can we believe that being saved really has nothing whatever to do with the kinds of persons we are?—Dallas Willard/> “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind,to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.”—Luke 4:18-19 /> Our mission is to be with Jesus, to become like Jesus, and to do as Jesus did. The people who are rescued by the cross and the love it reveals will then be shaped by the cross and the love it will reveal through them to the world…This is how we learn not only to tell the story of Jesus, but also to live the story of Jesus.— N.T. Wright /> Jesus did not simply die to save us from our sins. Jesus also lived to save us from our sins. /> When the prophets Daniel and John envision the empires as vicious beasts, what they're saying is, Beneath all the wealth, power, and excess of these dazzling empires lie grotesque monsters, trampling everyone and everything in their path. And when they depict God as tolerating, then restraining, and finally destroying these monsters, what they're saying is, The story isn't over; even the greatest empires are no match for goodness, righteousness, and virtue.—Rachel Held Evans /> The Bible is a collection of resistance stories because all of it anticipates or announces the Kingdom of God and the rule and reign of Jesus Christ.
Who is someone who makes you feel safe? On this Good Shepherd Sunday, Kelly Cutbirth leads us through practices that ground us in the goodness of God's companioning presence. [Psalm 23] Reflection What familiar advice do you often ignore? What practices help you find a sense of safety and rest? How does the Shepherd's promise of mercy and goodness, even in the midst of life's challenges and hardships, feel to you? Resources Book: Good Enough: 40ish Devotionals for a Life of Imperfection by Kate Bowler and Jessica Richie Book: What Is God Like? by Rachel Held Evans and Matthew Paul Turner
Dr. Peter Enns returns to the podcast to discuss his new book Curve-ball - When Your Faith Takes Turns You Never Saw Coming* or How I Stumbled and Tripped My Way to Finding a Bigger God. Pete admits it's the longest title in the history of publishing. The popular professor, author (see show notes for his many other books), and podcaster (The Bible for Normal People) drops his guard like never before sharing his spiritual and intellectual journey from his days as an aspiring baseball player to progressive Christian thinker. "Wrestling with God and Scripture is very old and completely normal. Actually, it's God-activated," he says. In reviewing the book, Ken and Pete talk about Noah, Jonah, and Jesus as archetypes in the struggle. Richard Rohr, David Bentley Hart, Thomas Oord and Rachel Held Evans get honorable mention as guides. Evolution is a major "curveball" for many Christians. Pete is especially interested in the chaos and "weirdness" of physics and quantum mechanics, all of which have opened Pete's mind and heart to a much bigger and more profound notion of God. While Pete avoids the clichéd use of the over-used and misappropriated descriptor, "deconstruction," he traces a normal, natural, and healthy evolution in our understanding of faith and our relationship to the God of the Universe. SHOW NOTESBecome a Patron: www.patreon.com/beachedwhitemaleSupport the show
In 2011, Tripp sat down with Rachel Held Evans (1981-2019) to record some conversations for a project that never got off the ground. This never-before-heard audio provides a fascinating glimpse into what was going on in the church and the world — and in the head and heart of one of the most beloved Christian authors at the time. But it also reveals just how much has changed, and how no one in 2011 could have foreseen the political and cultural upheavals that would rock the evangelical church. Also joining us on this episode are Ryan Burge, to discuss those changes, and Nadia Bolz-Weber, to share what it was like to meet Rachel, befriend her, and lose her. ______ Music by The Cobalt Season (compliments of Ryan Sharp), Solomon's Porch (compliments of Ben Johnson) Emerged is a crowdfunded project. If you join, you'll have access to extra material, ad-free episodes, private livestreams with the hosts and guests, and an array of gifts at various levels of partnership. Learn more and join at EmergedPodcast.com. Our Producers: Karen Sloan - karensloan.net The Open Table Network - https://opentable.network/ Brad Cecil Chris Estus Pre-Order Tony's Book "The God of Wild Places: https://reverendhunter.com/books Get Tickets to Theology Beer Camp here: theologybeer.camp Produced by Josh Gilbert: joshgilbertmedia.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mark 1:9-15In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved;* with you I am well pleased.'And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.Now after John was arrested, Jesus came to Galilee, proclaiming the good news* of God,* and saying, ‘The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near;* repent, and believe in the good news. I don't remember my baptism. It was thirty years ago at the church my parents still go to; same baptismal font my brother and his daughters were baptized in. Water was poured on our heads from a little bowl in a sanctuary filled with red carpet. As you can see, I had on a white gown, a banner hung with my name on it. I'm sure there was a little reception after in the parlor. As far as Lutheran baptisms go, it was pretty standard.To some folks though, my baptism might seem pretty strange; I mean why baptize an infant? Why not wait till the person is older, knows what's happening, chooses for themselves? Or why sprinkle only a little water? Why not full immersion in a river or lake or a huge, heated pool right here on the altar? Baptism is so ubiquitous in the church that we rarely stop to ask the hard questions: What makes a baptism, a baptism? Does a little bit of water really make a difference? What does it really do? I read an article in the New York Times that talked about all the different ways baptisms happen these days. In South Florida, one church does their baptisms in the Atlantic ocean, amid the waves and keeping an eye out for sharks. At Creekwood Church in Texas, they rent out a waterpark and baptize with huge slides overhead. Nowadays, instead of white robes or gowns, people get custom t-shirts with mottos on them like #washed, best day ever, no turning back. Now I'm not saying these practices are wrong, except for the waterpark… that I've got some questions about. Still they aren't wrong. They have all the things necessary for a baptism, which really is only two things: first you need water, and really any water will do. Tap water, distilled water, chlorine filled water, salt water, it doesn't matter what kind of water; because what really matters, at least for Lutheran Christians, is that the water is joined together with the Word, (with a capital W) of God, meaning the water is joined together with the real presence of Jesus and all the promises he gives. Just as we believe Jesus is truly present in, with, and under the bread and wine at communion, we too believe Jesus is in, with, and joined to the water at a baptism. So these other forms or settings (oceans, waterparks, t-shirts) don't make it any more or less of a baptism. But they do make baptism more of an experience.A pastor in Linwood Kansas says in that NYT article, “We live in an age where people like experiences. It's not that it looks better, but it feels better. It feels more authentic, it feels more real.”Now I don't know about you, but I didn't feel much at my baptism… does that mean it was less authentic? There wasn't much of an experience either, for me and anyone else there. Does that mean it was less real? It's not the experience that matters, or the feeling you get coming out of the water. Truth be told, baptism isn't about you… by that I mean its not about the decision you make, or even about giving your life to Christ. Because its not you who's doing the work. It's not you choosing to get closer to God. If all it took was one decision by us to be put in God's good graces, there would be no need for Jesus' own baptism nor his death and resurrection. Christ has already given his life for you, suffered once for all as Peter tells us. Why do we try to make it obsolete?Baptism then isn't about what you do, it's about what God does for you, to you. It's God getting closer to you on account of Christ; because through the water and Word, we are joined to the death and resurrection of Jesus.I like how one baptist preacher describes this. He said: “we Baptists believe in water. So when it comes to baptizing, we don't mess around with a few sprinkles. We put people under until they bubble. We want them to feel just a moment of panic, so they can appreciate the resurrection.” And while I think that is terrifying and fits the description of torture, I like the symbolism. Because more than anything else, baptism is death and resurrection. Luther describes it as the drowning of the old, sinful self (which is a rather good swimmer) and rising to new life. It's not simply “a removal of dirt, but an appeal to God so that once we are covered with that water, God no longer remembers our sin, but looks upon us with steadfast love, just as God did with Jesus at his baptism.To be clear, being baptized doesn't mean that you'll never sin again. You remain a sinful person. But it does mean that God's grace and forgiveness abound all the more, working on you each day to put to death that old self and live as one who reflects the love and goodness received from God. Being baptized also doesn't mean life gets any easier. If anything, baptism means life will get harder! Notice that the same spirit Jesus received at his baptism immediately put him into the wilderness. Rachel Held Evans puts it this way, “baptism declares that God is in the business of bringing dead things back to life, so if you want in on God's business, you better prepare to follow God to all the rock-bottom, scorched-earth, dead-on-arrival corners of this world, including the ones in your own heart - because thats where God works.”Which is why its a courageous statement, dangerous even, we make when baptizing babies. We are acknowledging that this spirit you receive will call you, drive you into places you wouldn't otherwise go; its saying this beautiful, seemingly perfect little baby is in fact not so perfect and needs God's grace just like the rest of us; And that it is God's desire for this child to be a member of God's holy, loving, struggling family. That's why we baptize infants. That's why we don't make it much of an experience, like at a waterpark or with t-shirts. And that's why we say it's not about you, but about what God does, says, and works in you through the waters of baptism. It's less about us declaring something to God, and more about God declaring to us and to all the world, This is my beloved child, forgiven, grace-filled, and ready for the journey. Held-Evans again: “It is death and resurrection, over and over again, day after day, as God reaches down into our deepest graves and with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead [pulls] us out of that dirt, bringing us into the light of a new day, every day.If you've been baptized, put your hand in the font today, remember your baptism, remember what God has done, is doing, and will do every day and live as baptized people, proclaiming the good news of Jesus in both word and deed and with as many people as we can.But if you haven't been baptized and want to be, please talk with me or Pastor Mark. There is no test to see if you're ready; you don't need to feel holy enough or ready enough, or like you've got it all together in life and in faith. That's not how this works. The decision is made and God has chosen you. You are already God's beloved, so let God declare it to you and all the world, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen
MPR News host Kerri Miller has never skirted the topic of faith.On her former weekday show, she regularly dialoged with leaders like Jenan Mohajir from Interfaith America, activist and author Anne Lamott, theologian Jemar Tisby, Sister Joan Chittister, and evangelical disrupter Rachel Held Evans. She even did a year-long series with women from a variety of faith backgrounds in 2019. So it seemed fitting, during the 2024 winter member drive, to return to this theme and remember a few of the best conversations. Included are portions of Miller's recent discussion with Pastor Amy Butler, who penned the memoir, “Beautiful and Terrible Things;” Miller's 2019 conversation with podcaster Misha Euceph about being Muslim in America; and a snippet of the 2023 Talking Volumes season finale with author Margaret Renkl about why Renkl left the Catholic church of her upbringing and found a new one in nature.
To kick off 2024 we thought we'd share a Nomad Revisited episode with you. Each month on Revisited Tim and Nick raid the Nomad archives, dust off an old interview, and ponder where their faith was then, where it is now, and what influences shaped that transition. Nomad Revisited is usually tucked away behind a paywall on our Patreon page as a little thank you for the listeners who help us pay the bills. But we're making this one freely available as a little New Years treat. In this Revisited, we travel back to 2015 and a conversation Tim had with the much loved blogger and author Rachel Held Evans. Rachel was one of the early pioneers in the deconstruction space, blogging about her experiences of growing up in a fundamentalist Bible Belt culture, and her experiences of publicly questioning this. Rachel became a beacon of hope for thousands of people wrestling with an evolving faith. But sadly she died suddenly in 2019 at just 37, leaving a husband and two young children. So this is an episode marked by sadness, but also a celebration of a beautiful life. Interview starts at 15m 42s Show Notes → If you'd like a brand new Nomad Revisited each month, then sign up at our Patreon page.
What hesitancies do you have when you consider yourself in relation to priesthood? Kimberly Culbertson explores how we are invited to be hope carriers, resource facilitators, and sacrificial relators as we live out a shared calling. [1 Peter 2:4-5, 9] Reflection How have you been called out of darkness into marvelous light? How has God wired you to be part of creating spiritual space for others? How does interdependence change the way you view priesthood? Resources Book: Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church by Rachel Held Evans
In our podcast interview with Amanda Held Opelt, author of "Holy Unhappiness: God, Goodness, and the Myth of the Blessed Life," we discussed the powerful role our emotions play in shaping our lives. Amanda's profound understanding, shaped by her own experiences, including the sudden loss of her sister Rachel Held Evans and her battle with infertility, serves as a poignant reminder to explore a more profound sense of fulfillment through faith while embracing the intricate tapestry of our emotions in our pursuit of genuine happiness. Amanda challenged the conventional idea that achieving external markers of success guarantees happiness. Instead, she urged us to root ourselves in Christ to prevent our feelings from dictating our life's course. We also explored the importance of helping our children navigate uncomfortable emotions and coping with life's disappointments when our checkbox approach to happiness falls short. Get Amanda's book here Learn more about Amanda Held Opelt BE LOVE do good is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org
Sixes have excellent analytical minds, are great strategists, troubleshooters, problem-solvers, and of course, see worst-case scenarios that other people don't see. The passion of the Six is fear which is often experienced as anxiety…anxiety that the unexpected could happen at any time. But once they launch a mental narrative in their head of all that could go wrong, these fictional stories can take on lives of their own and can grow and crowd out what's actually happening. Today, we revisit my conversation with Jeff Chu to explore the complexities of The Loyalist, and how knowing his Enneagram type has allowed him to identify those aspects of his personality that are responses to things he's been through in the past and work through them. ---------------- Jeff Chu is a writer, reporter, Editor-at-large at Travel + Leisure, and Teacher in residence at Crosspointe Church. His reporting and writing has appeared in The New York Times Magazine, Travel+Leisure, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, and Modern Farmer. When big publishers were still starting magazines and pouring millions of dollars into them, Jeff was an editor on the launch team of the now-defunct Conde Nast Portfolio. And before that, he spent seven years at Time magazine, where he really received his journalistic education. Jeff was a London-based web producer and staff writer. In 2021, Jeff helped turn Rachel Held Evans' latest work-in-progress into a finished book titled, “Wholehearted Faith.” He wove the words of her partial manuscript with other unpublished writings to create a rich collection of essays that ask candid questions about the stories we've been told—and the stories we tell—about our faith, our selves, and our world.
This week I'll tell a couple of stories about clearing out spaces and finding what fits, and relate these stories to Luke, chapter 5. I hope this episode all about intentionally creating new wineskins in the practice of our faith is a helpful one for you. If you'd like to connect with me, find me on Instagram, at my website, or on Substack. If you'd like to help support this podcast financially, there's a way to do just that on my page at buymeacoffee.com! Thanks as always for sharing, subscribing, rating, and reviewing, as this helps our community to grow!ng: Thanks as always to my friend, Peter Vaughan-Vail, for providing the beautiful harp music you hear in this and every episode. Here are some resources I hope will help you to engage with this week's topic in a deeper way for yourself: 1. Scripture: Luke:5 and Luke:6 2. Song: Only Good Will Grow, by Matt Maher, featuring Brian Elmquist 3. Song: I Wanna Feel Again, by Matt Maher, featuring Taylor Leonhardt 4. Community: Evolving Faith 5. Book: Searching for Sunday: Loving, Leaving, and Finding the Church, by Rachel Held Evans
Links to things mentioned:Our patreon! Join our exclusive, behind-the-scenes group and get extra access to Sheila, Rebecca, and Joanna for only $5 a month!Our amazing Insulated Travel Mugs, that keep water super cold, and keep things hot, too! We've got them in a variety of designs, including Prayer and Tent Pegs, our She Deserves Better slogans, and our Biblical Womanhood MerchN.T. Wright's book How God Became King, and Rachel Held Evans' book Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible AgainThe article from Desiring God that tells women to gaslight themselvesOur podcast on how Emerson Eggerichs misuses Scripture, and our post outlining the main ways in detail
I discovered Richard Beck years ago much as he described. He and I were both in a progressive-evangelical phase. I probably found him through Rachel Held Evans who gathered many in this day of the Internet blogosphere. I resonated deeply with his blog and followed it closely. When I rediscovered his blog recently I was amazed how similar he was to me again. I couldn't imagine how we had been tracking together and when he decided to start the Mental Illness series I had to reach out. What a lovely time connecting. https://richardbeck.substack.com/ Richard Beck Unclean https://amzn.to/43HUiXP Hunting Magic Eels https://amzn.to/3NdaWcA July Washington DC Event with Michael Martin and Spencer Klavan https://www.eventbrite.com/e/christ-and-community-in-the-modern-age-tickets-608591853617 Paul Vander Klay clips channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX0jIcadtoxELSwehCh5QTg Bridges of Meaning Discord https://discord.gg/rpf3zatJ https://www.meetup.com/sacramento-estuary/ My Substack https://paulvanderklay.substack.com/ Estuary Hub Link https://www.estuaryhub.com/ If you want to schedule a one-on-one conversation check here. https://paulvanderklay.me/2019/08/06/converzations-with-pvk/ There is a video version of this podcast on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/paulvanderklay To listen to this on ITunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/paul-vanderklays-podcast/id1394314333 If you need the RSS feed for your podcast player https://paulvanderklay.podbean.com/feed/ All Amazon links here are part of the Amazon Affiliate Program. Amazon pays me a small commission at no additional cost to you if you buy through one of the product links here. This is is one (free to you) way to support my videos. https://paypal.me/paulvanderklay Blockchain backup on Lbry https://odysee.com/@paulvanderklay https://www.patreon.com/paulvanderklay Paul's Church Content at Living Stones Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh7bdktIALZ9Nq41oVCvW-A To support Paul's work by supporting his church give here. https://tithe.ly/give?c=2160640
Author, Evangelical theologian, and recently deceased Christian reformer Rachel Held Evans poignantly stated, "A lot of people think the hardest part about religious doubt is feeling isolated from God. It's not. At least in my experience, the hardest part about doubt is feeling isolated from your community." In this episode Valerie and Nathan share their thoughts and personal experiences about how faith expansion can be both a deeply sacred experience of personal enlightenment but also profoundly isolating, lonely, and relationally painful as we try to relate to our former circles of family and friends. Why is this so hard? Val and Nathan offer some ideas: Our Former Inner Circle LDS tribe (both friends and family) 1. Sometimes build their relational lives around the church, which makes relating to those different from themselves challenging; especially in relationships where both parties were accustomed to relating to one another only through church-related common beliefs 2. Sometimes seem to struggle being genuinely interested, curious, and open to the experiences of their friends and loved ones now differing from themselves and relate to us from a place of "concern, heal, reconvert, or fix" 3. Are conditioned by teachings at church that those of us in faith expansion are "falling away" or "led by Satan" in our experiences, thereby making it challenging to want to explain, justify, self defend (as we have heard this rhetoric ourselves all of our lives). 4. Judge those of us no longer fully aligned with them. This judgment might be cloaked in 'concern', but its essence (possibly unconscious but still felt by us) is "without the church you are lost. As a faithful church member, my testimony insulates me in certainly, thereby also preventing me from curiosity, openness, and a true desire to learn from you." These divides create an added layer of grief on top of the grieve of faith and trust crisis. These divides prevent us from drawing upon our core family and friends when we're need them most. This episode was is offered with the hope to help you feel seen, understood, and not alone as we struggle relationally in our faith expansion. Book referenced in this episode: Searching for Sunday. Podcast mentioned in this episode https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fireside-with-blair-hodges/id1559678265?i=1000582242575 ____________________________________________________ Contact Valerie at info@valeriehamaker.com or jump onto latterdaystruggles.com to JOIN Valerie's Wednesday 7p JUNE Group ( 2 slots just opened up per 5/13/23) or her AUGUST 2023 support and processing faith expansion group…Join now & meet some lifelong friends & spiritual allies! __________________________________________________ NEW!! Go to latterdaystruggles.com and purchase a brand new online course moderated by couples therapist Valerie Hamaker titled “An LDS Couple's Guide to Faith Crisis and Expansion.” ____________________________________________________ Are you impacted by Valerie's willingness to tackle some of the most historically and currently “taboo” topics in the LDS faith tradition and want to financially support her deep commitment to shifting her professional time in this direction? You can financially support Latter Day Struggles podcast by donating via Venmo @valerie-hamaker (last 4 digits 3447 if applicable) and THANK YOU for so many enquiring on how to support our work! ____________________________________________________
This week on the podcast, Merideth shares what professional musician life and pending published authorship are teaching her about rejection. Late author Rachel Held Evans was said to have had a Post-it above her writing desk that said, "Tough skin, tender heart." Merideth offers 3 ways to be tough and tender, to find joy in the process of bravely living into your creative calling. Read Dheepa Maturi's blog Support the work of Artists for Joy Learn more about Merideth's speaking/performing/facilitation offerings Join "The Artist's Joy" Launch Team How to rate and review this podcast
In this episode, we speak with Sarah Bessey about the idea of evolving faith and its accompanying challenges. We dive into what it means to have faith during times of change and whether there are any limits to that change. Additionally, we explore the influence of Rachel Held Evans on Sarah's personal faith journey and what insights we might be missing from Rachel's voice in the present day. Finally, we discuss how evolving faith intersects with the idea of Christian orthodoxy and the role of community in supporting those who are wrestling with difficult questions. ★ Support our work and get: 2 bonus episodes each month, a montly Zoom call with Nate, Shelby and other listeners, an ad-free version of the show, and access to the private Facebook Group with hundreds of other listeners! Find out more here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Doing the next right thing is perhaps most necessary when we find ourselves in the midst of grief and loss. Today I'm glad to talk with author, speaker, and songwriter Amanda Held Opelt. She believes in the power of community, ritual, shared worship, and storytelling to heal even our deepest wounds. Amanda is well acquainted with grief after experiencing several years of profound loss, including the sudden death of her only sister, New York Times bestselling author Rachel Held Evans. Amanda explores the rituals of grief and what they can teach us about ourselves, our faith, and each other in times of deep loss in her new book, A Hole in the World. If you find yourself in the midst of the fog of grief or want to grow in your understanding of what grievers are going through, listen in. Links + Resources From This Episode: A Hole in the World by Amanda Held Opelt Amanda's Instagram account @amandaheldopelt Amanda's website Order The Next Right Thing Guided Journal Grab a copy of my book The Next Right Thing Find me on Instagram @emilypfreeman Download a transcript of this, and every, episode at emilypfreeman.com.
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