Podcasts about Secularism

In a stunning display of religious overreach and intellectual cowardice, Baylor University shamefully rejected a $643,000 research grant intended to study LGBTQ+ experiences in religious spaces. This isn't just about lost funding; it's a clear message that appeasing conservative fundamentalists and their bigoted donors trumps academic freedom, scientific inquiry, and basic human dignity. The university's fear of uncovering uncomfortable truths about its own marginalized students and faculty is a stark illustration of how dogma silences facts, prioritizing comfort over compassion. It's a classic playbook move: preserving antiquated beliefs, even if it means actively harming the very people they claim to serve. A truly pathetic and hypocritical stance for an institution of 'higher learning'.News Source:Baylor University rejects 643,401 LGBTQ research grant after conservative backlashBy Hemant Mehta for The Friendly AtheistJuly 17, 2025

The land of the free? Not if you're trans. The U.S. is cementing itself as a hostile environment for transgender individuals and their families, with anti-trans policies driving some to flee the country. This isn't about protecting kids; it's about control, bigotry, and weaponizing pseudoscience for political gain, threatening fundamental human rights and democracy itself. While policymakers ignore actual science and real issues like equal pay or child starvation, humanists and secular advocates must fight for inclusion, truth, and dignity for all, especially those without the privilege to escape this dangerous erosion of liberty. It's an alarming attack on identity and autonomy.News Source: Families Say They're Leaving The US Due To The Anti-Transgender ClimateBy Jo Yurcaba for NBC NewsJune 1, 2025

Jacob and Rob dig into Trump's firing of the Bureau of Labor Statistics commissioner, exposing the political theater surrounding government data. They explore labor hoarding, CPI distortions, and the fragility of public statistical institutions in a polarized, AI-saturated world. The conversation spans historical context, philosophical takes on truth and data, and the coming war for proprietary information. They close with a baffling shift in U.S.-India trade policy—and a call for help understanding what the hell is going on.--Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction (00:44) - Employment Data(02:42) - Trump's Reaction and Bureau of Labor Statistics(05:07) - Challenges in Measuring Employment(12:24) - Historical Context and Political Interference(21:06) - Impact of Data Quality on AI and Public Trust(27:29) - Speculation on the Future of Data Commoditization(29:02) - The Decline of Respect for Objective Data(31:01) - Historical Perspectives on Data and Statistics(32:36) - The French Example of Data Collection and Secularism(34:05) - The Impact of AI on Information and Truth(36:35) - The Value of Proprietary Information in the Age of AI(44:36) - Historical Parallels and the Power of Information(49:43) - US-India Trade Relations and Geopolitical Strategy(56:03) - Conclusion and Final Thoughts--Jacob Shapiro Site: jacobshapiro.comJacob Shapiro LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jacob-l-s-a9337416Jacob Twitter: x.com/JacobShapJacob Shapiro Substack: jashap.substack.com/subscribe --The Jacob Shapiro Show is produced and edited by Audiographies LLC. More information at audiographies.com --Jacob Shapiro is a speaker, consultant, author, and researcher covering global politics and affairs, economics, markets, technology, history, and culture. He speaks to audiences of all sizes around the world, helps global multinationals make strategic decisions about political risks and opportunities, and works directly with investors to grow and protect their assets in today's volatile global environment. His insights help audiences across industries like finance, agriculture, and energy make sense of the world.--This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podtrac - https://analytics.podtrac.com/privacy-policy-gdrp

The doctors have returned, picking up where they had left off, discussing the basis of our current manias, the slippery and often inchoate concepts of Secularism and Modernity. Where did they begin, what do they mean, and how do we approach them are some of the topics addressed. This time, they finish the show notes. Items mentioned in this podcast: Scopes Trial: https://tinyurl.com/MoritzScopes100 Menken on Machen: https://tinyurl.com/MenkenonMachen Othodoxy and Education: https://tinyurl.com/OrthEd2025

A major Pride event just showed its true colors, gatekeeping an LGBTQ+ affirming atheist group. Recovering from Religion, a vital ally for those healing from religious trauma, was disinvited from St. John's Pride after initial approval—likely to appease religious groups. This baffling double standard, where a secular organization committed to dignity gets booted while commercial sponsors are welcome, smacks of hypocrisy. It raises troubling questions about who truly belongs at Pride and highlights a discomfort with non-religious voices, even when they advocate for core Pride values.News Source:LGBTQ affirming atheist group denied booth at St. John's Pride FestivalBy Hemant Mehta for The Friendly AtheistJuly 15, 2025

The IRS just dropped a bombshell, effectively kneecapping the Johnson Amendment and letting religious organizations openly politick from the pulpit without losing their tax-exempt status. Critics warn this could turn churches into tax-free PACs, funneling dark money into elections and further blurring the lines between church and state. While rarely enforced, this move exposes a glaring double standard, eroding fundamental principles of separation and allowing unchecked religious influence in politics. It's a classic case of religious overreach, threatening the integrity of both institutions and democracy itself, all while secular organizations play by stricter rules. The implications for public policy and fair elections are concerning, as accountability vanishes.News Source:IRS Now Says Pastors Can Endorse Political CandidatesBy NPRJuly 8, 2025

The Authority Of Philosophy Over Science If you think the atheists are mad and don't watch our videos before commenting, wait till they don't see this one! In continuing the argument that philosophy should be considered first before one considers their science, we look at how the authority of philosophy is not only substantiated by philosophers but even by scientists who want to try and get around philosophy. Also, when they come into conflict with issues within their framework, they don't show you a science experiment but give you a philosophical argument. Suspicious, indeed! TIMELINE: 00:00 - Introduction 01:33 - Authority And Autonomy In Philosophy 02:47 - Authority Of Philosophy Over Science 05:14 - Philosophical Claims Greater Than Scientific For The Beginning Of Everything 07:21 - Stephen Hawking's Failure To Have No Beginning Of The Universe 09:08 - Philosophers Show How Hawking Is Wrong 13:21 - Science Fails To Talk About Nothing When They Say Something About Nothing 15:54 - Science Fails To Discover The Origin Of Life; But Philosophy Does Better 21:41 - Conclusion BOOK LINKS: Scientism and Secularism - Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland Kindle Paperback Audible (FREE With Membership) Logos J.P. Moreland Website       All episodes, short clips, & blog - https://www.cavetothecross.com

Show notes will be posted upon receipt.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

When a volcano stirs, who do you trust? This episode dives into the recent seismic activity of Iliamna volcano, contrasting scientific data with dramatic, religiously-tinged speculation about "Lord Vulcan." We expose the dangers of abandoning expert geological analysis for fear-based, supernatural narratives. It's a hilarious yet critical look at how dogma tries to explain natural events, highlighting the crucial importance of secular principles and relying on actual volcanologists for real insights, especially when communities are at risk. Forget prophecies—science keeps us safe!News Source: Iliamna Volcano and Molten Minerals By Julia Jacobo for ABC News July 11th, 2025The Non-Prophets, Episode 24.30.3 featuring Eli Slack, Jonathan Roudabush, and Tracy WilbertVolcano Prophecies: God or Geology?

Incursions of Christian nationalism at the federal and state level are increasing, and we are fighting back. We report a quick legal victory removing a Ten Commandments monument from an Illinois county courthouse. Then, we remember the lives of two precious freethinkers who died this month: long-time FFRF member Dick Hewetson, an Episcopal priest turned gay/atheist activist, who died at age 95; and satirical songwriter Tom Lehrer ("Vatican Rag"), who died at age 97.

Texas lawmakers, ignoring devastating floods, shamelessly prioritize a discriminatory bathroom bill, mandating transgender individuals use restrooms based on birth sex. This vile legislation, cloaked in false protection, exposes a hateful agenda to control and endanger marginalized citizens. It's a blatant example of bigoted politicians weaponizing fear and "purity culture" to oppress, rather than address actual crises. The true intent is not protection, but public shaming and identification, harkening back to dark historical periods of government-sanctioned dehumanization. A clear call for human rights over baseless prejudice.Kerr County Flood Relief Fund: https://cftexashillcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4201News Source:Transgender bathroom bill added to Texas flood relief special sessionBy Brooke Sopelsa for NBC NewsJuly 15, 2025

Rebuilders is back after a 12-week break—custard, croissants, and all—and we're diving into a profound cultural shift. Are we moving from a post-Christian to a post-secular society? What's fueling the quiet revival across Europe? Why are Gen Z doubling down on both science and astrology? In this episode, Mark Sayers unpacks the surprising spiritual openness emerging in secular cultures, drawing from his recent travels and conversations with leaders across Europe. Join Mark, Liddy, and Daniel as they explore what this shift means for the church and how we can respond with wisdom and faith.To support, subscribe or find out more about Rebuilders, head to rebuilders.co

A troubling lawsuit highlights a church's alleged coercion and abuse protection, unpacking how religious institutions, acting as counselors, can demand victims stay in abusive relationships. This discussion explores their disregard for mandatory reporting laws and legal regulations, exposing the dangers when dogma overrides personal autonomy and human well-being. It reveals how such practices can lead to severe psychological harm, especially for children, and calls for secular principles to prevail where vulnerable individuals are concerned.News Source: Woman Sues John MacArthur's Church By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist July 14, 2025

Philosophy First! The goal is not to reject science. It's understanding the failure that scientism provides when it comes to understanding. However, adopting a philosophy first framework provides the foundation for science to function (and the presuppositions needed for the necessary preconditions of intelligibility). So he's the case for adopting First Philosophy. TIMELINE: 00:00 - Introduction 01:44 - Recovering Philosophy First In Knowledge 03:07 - Two Benefits Of 1st Philosophy 03:45 - The War Against 1st Philosophy 05:07 - The Two Theses Of 1st Philosophy 06:30 - The Negative Outcomes Of Rejecting 1st Philosophy 07:35 - The Purpose Of Philosophy According To Scientism 09:48 - Why They Reject 1st Philosophy - Starting Assumptions 11:09 - Why They Reject 1st Philosophy - Disagreement Among Philosophy 12:40 - Why They Reject 1st Philosophy - Cartesian Certainty 13:35 - Foundationalism Vs. Cartesian Certainty 17:53 - Cartesian Certainty Impossibility 22:20 - Conclusion BOOK LINKS: Scientism and Secularism - Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland Kindle Paperback Audible (FREE With Membership) Logos J.P. Moreland Website       All episodes, short clips, & blog - https://www.cavetothecross.com

Show notes will be posted upon receipt.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Have a comment? Send us a text! (We read all of them but can't reply). Email us: Will@faithfulpoliticspodcast.comWhat happens when the church adopts the worldview of its cultural critics?According to recent data, nearly 60% of American Christians now say it's more important to be “kind” than to uphold biblical truth. But what if that kindness is shaped by a secularism that quietly undermines Christian convictions? In this episode of Faithful Politics, we sit down with Dr. John West—author of Stockholm Syndrome Christianity and VP of the Discovery Institute—to explore how secular assumptions have infiltrated the church from within. West, a longtime scholar of politics, religion, and science, argues that many church leaders have internalized a materialist worldview that strips faith of its power to transform.We talk homelessness, public policy, marriage, religious liberty, and why Christians need to recover a holistic view of human dignity—not just “throw money at problems.” It's a thought-provoking dialogue on the tensions between compassion, conviction, and cultural conformity.

Carl Sagan wasn't a prophet, just a brilliant scientist who saw the writing on the wall decades ago. This episode unpacks his chillingly accurate predictions about America's descent into misinformation, scientific illiteracy, and a society where critical thinking is abandoned for superstition. We dive deep into how his warnings about issues like climate change were tragically ignored, highlighting the dangers of prioritizing profit over people and the urgent need for a return to reason. It's a stark reminder of the uphill battle against denial, and why teaching skepticism to future generations is our only hope against unchecked power and climate catastrophe. Time to forge a new future with compassion, courage, and empirical evidence!News Source: Carl Sagan predicted present state of USA almost 26 years ago: Visionary scientist By Vani Khokar for Scoop Upworthy July 7, 2025

This week on Freethought Radio, guest hosts Ryan Jayne and Leo Costello talk about a Christian state representative in Texas who's speaking out against a new law that would place the Ten Commandments in every public school in the state. Plus, we listen to debates featuring FFRF Co-Presidents Annie Laurie Gaylor and Dan Barker as they address the questions: "Is religion a force for good?" and "Can religion cure the loneliness epidemic?"

This episode unearths another chilling truth: an Australian Orthodox priest's sexual assault conviction, met with the church's grotesque demand for silence— 'sheep do not judge the shepherd'. We expose how religious authority wields doctrine to shield abusers and gaslight victims, equating critique with blasphemy to maintain unchecked power. It's a shocking look at how institutions, prioritizing piety over people, perpetuate cycles of abuse and male unaccountability. This isn't just about a single priest; it's a stark warning about the systemic dangers of faith unburdened by reason, demanding we demand transparency and critical thinking to protect the vulnerable. Silence is complicity.News Source: Sheep do not judge the shepherd priest By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist July 9, 2025

Unearthing horrifying truths, this episode tackles the Catholic Church's unspeakable abuses at Irish mother-baby homes, where hundreds of infants, born "out of wedlock," were tragically left to die and buried in mass graves. We expose how religious doctrine, intertwined with pervasive societal shame and male unaccountability, created a brutal system designed to control women and punish perceived "sins". It's a stark reminder of what happens when piety trumps compassion, showing the urgent need for secular governance and a society that values every life. This isn't just history; it's a chilling warning.News Source: Ireland to begin excavation of mass grave at church-run mother-baby home By Clodagh Kilcoyne for Reuters July 8, 2025

Scientism Is Not All In The Head Here's a case study in which desiring only naturalist scientific explanations won't get you anywhere - consciousness. When it comes to the mind, one either has to reject the mind and therefore consciousness or reject a purely naturalistic science. Scientism is not all in the head, it seems. TIMELINE: 00:00 - Introduction 00:59 - The Human Consciousness Speaks Against Scientism 01:27 - Defining Our Terms - 3rd Person Vs. 1st Person POV 03:17 - What Is Consciousness & How Does One Know They Are 05:34 - The Immaterial Dualism Of Consciousness 08:21 - 5 Reasons Mental States Are Not Physical 08:27 - Mental States Are Feeling States 09:25 - Mental States Are Directed About An Object 10:40 - Mental States Are Internal & Private To Only One Person 11:49 - Mental States Are Subjective 12:07 - Mental States Fail to Have Crucial Features 12:51 - Human Consciousness Destroys Naturalism-Only Scientism 14:49 - Philosophical Behaviorism Failed To Naturalize Consciousness 16:34 - Type Identity Theory Failed To Naturalize Consciousness 18:44 - Functionalism Failed To Naturalize Consciousness 21:32 - Naturalistic Scientism Has Ruined Ideas Of Consciousness 24:30 - Conclusion BOOK LINKS: Scientism and Secularism - Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland Kindle Paperback Audible (FREE With Membership) Logos J.P. Moreland Website       All episodes, short clips, & blog - https://www.cavetothecross.com

Show notes will be posted upon receipt.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/truth-wanted--3195473/support.

Global population estimates, long considered bedrock facts, are facing a fascinating scientific challenge from new research. A study suggests Earth's human count could be vastly underestimated, potentially affecting critical resource allocation for rural communities. This segment dives into the method, expert skepticism, and the vital role of intellectual humility in scientific discovery. It's a perfect example of how even "concrete" numbers can be flawed by unchecked assumptions, reinforcing that a healthy skepticism and a willingness to self-correct are the hallmarks of good science – unlike those who seek to use such findings to fuel wild conspiracy theories or undermine trust in facts. It's a refreshing look at how the scientific process truly works, even if it might mean the world is a lot more crowded than we thought.News Source:Human Population MiscalculationBy Darren Orf for Popular MechanicsJune 21, 2025

The doctors are at it again, this time discussing the basis of our current manias, the slippery and often inchoate concepts of Secularism and Modernity. Where did they begin, what do they mean, and how do we approach them are some of the topics addressed. As to be expected, they did not finish the show notes. https://tinyurl.com/Doxamoot2025 https://tinyurl.com/OrthEd2025

We report on state/church violations in the White House, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. Then, FFRF Rapid Response Attorney Chris Line tells us what it means now that the IRS has announced that places of worship can endorse political candidates. Finally, we speak with distinguished Dartmouth historian Randall Balmer, who is an Episcopal priest, about his new book, America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State.

This is Thinking in Public, a program dedicated to intelligent conversation about frontline theological and cultural issues with the people who are shaping them.In this edition of the popular podcast series “Thinking in Public,” Albert Mohler speaks with McCormick Professor of Jurisprudence and Director of the James Madison Program at Princeton University, Robert P. George. They discuss his new book book, “Seeking Truth and Speaking Truth.”If you enjoyed this episode of Thinking in Public, you can find many more of these conversations here.You can purchase “Seeking Truth and Speaking Truth” here.Sign up to receive every new Thinking in Public release in your inbox.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.

Republican-led states, spearheaded by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, are launching a new accreditation body for higher education, aiming to dismantle existing standards deemed 'ideologically biased.' This move seeks to strip colleges of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, replacing robust academic curricula with 'anti-woke' content focused solely on workforce metrics and conservative dogma. It's a transparent ploy to cultivate a less critically thinking populace, benefit dubious institutions like 'Trump University,' and funnel taxpayer money to politically aligned ventures. This attack on comprehensive education prioritizes control and revenue over intellectual development, turning higher learning into an echo chamber for a narrow ideology, ultimately undermining the very fabric of an informed citizenry.News Source:Universities Creating New Accreditation Agency In Some Republican StatesBy Dan Levin and Karah Rucker for Straight Arrow NewsJune 27, 2025

Oklahoma's Superintendent Ryan Walters faces a lawsuit over new, controversially enacted education standards that inject Christian nationalist dogma and conspiracy theories into public school curricula. These changes, lacking transparency, bundle divisive religious content with popular but unfunded mandates, exemplifying a "shit-filled M&M" approach to policy. This blatant religious overreach is part of a broader Christian nationalist strategy to indoctrinate children, undermine secular education, and solidify power by marginalizing other faiths and non-believers. It highlights hypocrisy and poses significant challenges for teachers and the separation of church and state.**News Source:Oklahoma Sued Over School Standards, By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist, July 2, 2025

Caleb Collier is a former Marine, politician and is currently the host of Church & State media.Church & State Media: https://churchandstate.media/www.worldviewmatters.tv© FreedomProject 2025See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Other Sources Of Knowledge Well, if science doesn't give us all knowledge, what are other sources of knowledge? Well here are three areas where we not only obtain knowledge but we tend to have more confidence in it - than even science. TIMELINE: 00:00 - Introduction 02:04 - Science Is Showy, Philosophy Is Talky 05:16 - Scientism Has Invaded The Church 07:56 - Scientism Diminishes Other Disciplines That Provide Truth 09:14 - Why Reject Weak Scientism Specifically 12:20 - Weak Scientism Gives Too Much Weight To Claims And Not To Underlying Assumptions 14:03 - Weak Scientism Gives Don't Give Enough Weight Underlying Assumptions Deserve 15:38 - What View Makes Better Sense Of Reality 19:37 - Conclusion BOOK LINKS: Scientism and Secularism - Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland Kindle Paperback Audible (FREE With Membership) Logos J.P. Moreland Website       All episodes, short clips, & blog - https://www.cavetothecross.com

Colorado Springs City Council just threw their "inclusive" mask out the window, refusing to acknowledge Pride Month after three years, all because a Satanic group dared to utter "Hail Satan" at their parade. This isn't just about two words; it's a chilling display of hypocrisy and religious bigotry, driven by social media outrage that pushed a government body to discriminate against an entire community. While claiming to avoid "identity-based gestures," they weaponize religion against the LGBTQ+ community, proving that for some, the only identity that truly matters is their own narrow, Christian one. It's a bleak reminder that the fight for secularism and equality is far from over, especially when politicians cave to fear-mongering and pretend their religious intolerance isn't a political act. They demonize a non-theistic group for satire, while simultaneously harming queer individuals by making them feel "othered" and unsafe.News Source: Colorado Springs City Council Members Lash Out Over Pride Parade's "Hail Satan" Message By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly Atheist June 25, 2025 

Texas is pulling a fast one, mandating Ten Commandments posters in every public school classroom! This isn't about education, folks; it's a blatant, unconstitutional push to inject religious dogma into secular learning environments, ignoring clear historical precedents for the separation of church and state. Opponents highlight the staggering hypocrisy of a state with the death penalty pushing "thou shalt not kill," while taxpayers brace for the inevitable legal battles this divine decree will unleash. It's a classic case of religious overreach disguised as civic duty, proving some will stop at nothing to turn public schools into personal pulpits.News Source: Abbott Signs Law: Ten Commandments in Public School Classrooms By Anne James for KHOU 11 June 21, 2025

Professor Ralph Hancock of BYU discusses the dilemmas facing the church and the complexities of navigating politics as Latter-day Saints work within a secular world. Ralph's Articles on Alive and Intelligent Substack - https://aliveandintelligent.substack.com Cwic Media Website: http://www.cwicmedia.com

A Florida pastor offers a truly divine "testimony" of receiving a hefty $10,000 gift, allegedly for his fervent political endorsements, raising all sorts of holy hell about the blurred lines between pulpit and politics. This "blessing" isn't for charity, mind you, but for his personal coffers, sparking debate on whether this is divine intervention or just good old-fashioned grifting. Join us as we dissect this unholy union of faith and finance, exposing the alarming trend of religious organizations exploiting their tax-exempt status for personal and political gain, proving yet again that for some, the pursuit of earthly riches trumps spiritual integrity. It's a sermon on the mount of money, leaving us to wonder: is this divine prosperity, or just a new level of religious scam?.News Source: MAGA Pastor Brags About Receiving $10,000 For Supporting Trump By Black Information Network for BIN: Black Information Network June 23, 2025

Weak Scientism Is Weak Ok, strong scientism is bad because it denies any other field the ability to provide truth and in making the claim it becomes self-refuting. But what about weak scientism which lets a few areas have their claims to help support the Science(TM)? Well even weak scientism is weak and must be rejected. Find out why in this episode. Or comment on it without watching it like the atheists do. TIMELINE: 00:00 - Introduction 02:04 - Science Is Showy, Philosophy Is Talky 05:16 - Scientism Has Invaded The Church 07:56 - Scientism Diminishes Other Disciplines That Provide Truth 09:14 - Why Reject Weak Scientism Specifically 12:20 - Weak Scientism Gives Too Much Weight To Claims And Not To Underlying Assumptions 14:03 - Weak Scientism Gives Don't Give Enough Weight Underlying Assumptions Deserve 15:38 - What View Makes Better Sense Of Reality 19:37 - Conclusion BOOK LINKS: Scientism and Secularism - Learning to Respond to a Dangerous Ideology by J.P. Moreland Kindle Paperback Audible (FREE With Membership) Logos J.P. Moreland Website       All episodes, short clips, & blog - https://www.cavetothecross.com

In a brilliant display of malicious compliance, several cities are outmaneuvering GOP efforts to ban Pride flags on public property by simply making the rainbow banner their official city symbol. This tactical genius exposes the glaring hypocrisy of so-called "small government" proponents who have no issue legislating what colors citizens can fly, while simultaneously defending the divisive, hateful imagery of the Confederacy. It's a bold, "punk as fuck" stand against authoritarian bigotry and religious overreach, revealing how deeply threatened some are by inclusivity and basic human decency. This act of defiance serves as a beacon of hope against the relentless assault on human rights and freedom of expression, reminding us that critical thinking and resistance are vital in a climate where fear and ignorance are weaponized to control.News Source: GOP Fumes as City Outsmarts Pride Flag Ban By Daniel Villarreal for lgbtq nation June 7, 2025

FFRF announces another Ten Commandments lawsuit, this one in Texas. After covering state/church news at the federal, state and local levels, we talk with Joe Gerstein, M.D., founder of SMART Recovery, a secular program for dealing with alcoholism and other addictions that is based on science and evidence, not faith.

A so-called "rehab" camp for child refugees, operating under the guise of faith, has been exposed for horrific abuse, leading to the removal of dozens of children. This disturbing pattern reveals the systemic dangers of religious institutions operating with unchecked power and zero oversight. When vulnerable populations, particularly immigrant and refugee children, are exploited in the name of piety, it exposes a deep societal failure where religious privilege shields heinous acts from accountability. This incident highlights the urgent need for stringent regulation and criminalization of these "faith-based" programs, ensuring all children are protected from the predatory practices masked by religious fervor. The cycle of abuse must end.News Source: Iowa Kingdom Ministry Rehab & Recreation 'Shekinah Glory Camp' accused of child abuse By Kelby Wingert for kcci.com June 16, 2025

How did the Mass come to be, as we know it today? How do you explain who the Holy Spirit is? What is behind the movement to rename "BC/AD" to "BCE/CE"? Those are some of the fantastic questions Bishop Caggiano answers on this week's mailbag episode. Also... Have you ever been in a helicopter? Tune in to Let Me Be Frank for these and many more listener questions answered this week! Pax Christi, Steve Lee The other guy on Let Me Be Frank LINKS Support Veritas: https://www.veritascatholic.com/  

Dr Jared Longshore, a pastor of Christ Church MoscowID, and Undergraduate Dean at New Saint Andrew's College, talks with Dr Josh Howard about the concept of religious liberty, how it differs from Christian liberty, and the contrasts of how baptists and presbyterians view religious liberty.

A Georgia high school just pulled the plug on "The Crucible" because a few pearl-clutching parents deemed it "demonic." The irony! This isn't just baffling censorship; it's a symptom of a deeper societal rot where fear, ignorance, and religious overreach masquerade as "protecting the children." When a play warning against moral panic falls victim to it, we're plunging into a regressive abyss where critical thinking is demonized. This incident highlights alarming authoritarian control hijacking public education, proving unchecked religious influence and narcissistic entitlement threaten artistic expression and crucial historical lessons. Rage against the absurdity and fight for intellectual freedom.News Source:Georgia high school cancels 'The Crucible'By Hemant Mehta for The Friendly AtheistMay 26, 2025

The Crisis of Being   James Filler is a philosopher, theologian, and leading voice in metaphysics and post-Cartesian thought, specializing in substance ontology, the meaning crisis, and relational models of reason. With a PhD in philosophy and expertise in ancient and contemporary ontology, Filler is the author of Heidegger, Neoplatonism, and the History of Being Relation as Ontological Ground and Substance Ontology and the Crisis of Reason. His work traces the genealogical roots of modern nihilism and skepticism while advancing a powerful case for relationality, participation, and non-discursive forms of knowing. As a teacher and scholar, he brings clarity and compassion to some of the most pressing philosophical and spiritual questions of our time. James Filler: Academia.edu | Substance Ontology (Book)   Each quarter, John engages in thought-provoking extended conversations with a leading expert in psychology, philosophy, and spirituality. Each season offers a unique exploration, bringing together their diverse fields of knowledge to create fresh insights and understanding. These in-depth discussions, chaptered for your convenience, offer nuanced perspectives and integrative approaches to navigating our complex world.   The first episode is free and publicly available. To follow the rest of the season as well as gain access to previous discussions, you can sign up at the Beta Tier (and above) on The Lectern at the Lectern Lounge.   If you would like to donate purely out of goodwill to support John's work, please consider joining our Patreon. The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Learn more about our work.    If you would like to learn and engage regularly in practices that are informed, developed and endorsed by John and his work, visit Awaken to Meaning's calendar to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships. Join Practice.   John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   John Vervaeke is joined by philosopher and theologian James Filler to expose the hidden roots of the modern meaning crisis. Together, they trace a powerful philosophical arc from ancient substance ontology to today's widespread nihilism, skepticism, and isolation. James reveals how centuries of prioritizing “being” over “relation” have led to an inward collapse of reason, relationality, and the self. John and James unpack how non-discursive knowing, theosis, and participatory truth can restore wholeness beyond representational models of mind. They explore the role of liturgy, love, and vertical epistemology as practices that reawaken our connection to what is most real. This Lectern is a profound inquiry into what it means to become truly human—and how we might recover the sacred not through belief, but through transformation. Notes:  (00:00) Welcome to The Lectern (00:30) James Filler's Work (02:30) Impact of Substance Ontology (07:00) Cartesian Dualism and Its Consequences (10:30) Critique of Modern Rationality (13:30) Relationality and Knowledge (16:00) The Role of Non-Discursive Reasoning (24:00) Ethics and Becoming Truly Human (40:30) Participatory Knowing and Liturgy (42:00) Secularism and Substance Ontology (44:30) The Buffered Self and Modernity (48:00) Self-Transcendence and Theosis (51:00) Critique of Substance Ontology (01:00:00) The Role of Liturgy in Modern Churches

Andrew Sedra is the Lead Pastor and Founder of Echo Church in Sydney, Australia. Originally from Egypt, Andrew has personally experienced life in a Muslim society and is dedicated to combating the rise of Islam in the West. He has garnered an international reputation for boldly and unapologetically proclaiming the truth and standing against secularism, Islam, and LGBT ideology. Andrew joins Ryan to explain how Islam and secularism have joined forces to defeat Christianity in the Western world - and share his insights into how we can fight back - and WIN

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:14 – 05:10)Will Iran Recover and Resume its Nuclear Weapons Program? The Effectiveness of the Attacks are Unknown, and the Likelihood of Lasting Change is Difficult to CalculateTrump's Strikes on Iran Were Unlawful. Here's Why That Matters. by The New York Times (Oona A. Hathaway)Part II (05:10 – 10:24)NATO Allies Are Hiding Under the Shield of the U.S. – Are European Nations Serious About Their Own Survival?Part III (10:24 – 17:03)Did Trump Break International Law? Legal Scholar Seriously Argues that President Trump Had to Gain Support of UN Before Authorizing Military AttacksHow the Attacks on Iran Are Part of a Much Bigger Global Struggle by The New York Times (Thomas L. Friedman)Part IV (17:03 – 23:12)The Logic of Much “International Law” Falls Apart – Just Look at How That's (Not) Working in RussiaPart V (23:12 – 26:34)The Global Struggle is Not Inclusion and Resistance: The Global Conflict Before Our Eyes is a Battle Between Liberty and AutocracySign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

This is Thinking in Public, a program dedicated to intelligent conversation about frontline theological and cultural issues with the people who are shaping them.In this edition of the popular podcast series “Thinking in Public,” Albert Mohler speaks with William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Sociology and Director of the Center for the Study of Religion and Society at the University of Notre Dame, Christian Smith. They discuss his latest book, “Why Religion Went Obsolete: The Demise of Traditional Faith in America.”If you enjoyed this episode of Thinking in Public, you can find many more of these conversations here.You can purchase “Why Religion Went Obsolete” here.Sign up to receive every new Thinking in Public release in your inbox.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.

Christian musician and COVID-era superspreader Sean Feucht is under fire—this time from within his own ministry. Former colleagues accuse him of financial fraud, abuse of power, and exploiting legal loopholes to avoid IRS scrutiny. In this episode of The Non-Prophets, the panel tears into religious privilege, unearned trust, and how figures like Feucht weaponize martyrdom to dodge accountability. When belief meets unchecked power, who pays the price?News Source Christian Nationalist Sean Feucht accused of massive financial misconduct by former ministry insidersThe Friendly Atheist, By Hemant Mehta, on June 3, 2025

We celebrate Juneteenth, recognizing the end of slavery, and World Humanism Day, which occurs at the Summer Solstice as a secular alternative to religious holidays. After covering national and FFRF news, we speak with FFRF's Senior Policy Counsel Ryan Jayne and Regional Governmental Affairs Manager Mickey Dollens about the slew of good and bad bills dealing with religion at the state level around the country.

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:14 - 11:55)A Crisis of Existential Crises: Outside of Christ, Everything is an Existential CrisisWhy Is Everything an Existential Crisis? by The Wall Street Journal (Andrew Hartz)Part II (11:55 - 17:00)Is Burning the Koran a Crime in the UK? A Strange Alliance of Secularists and Christians are Questioning a Ruling in the UKA ruling in Britain stokes fears of backdoor blasphemy laws by The EconomistPart III (17:00 - 22:22)President Macron is Posturing: The Big Problems with the Calls by France's President for a Palestinian StatePart IV (22:22 - 26:40)The Non-Existent European Constitution: The 20th Anniversary of the European Vote for a Written Constitution That FailedThe constitution that never was still haunts Europe 20 years on by The EconomistSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.

After a two-year evidence review initiated by Utah's Republican governor, the data is in: gender-affirming care for youth is safe, effective, and medically justified. But instead of embracing science, lawmakers are ignoring their own study. In this episode, The Non-Prophets take apart the hypocrisy, the religious double standards, and the real human cost of denying care. When truth is inconvenient, some choose cruelty over compassion.News SourceMother Jones, “Utah Republicans Got the Science They Asked For—Then Ignored It”By Madison Pauly, May 24, 2025

This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:14 - 14:39)What's Going On Between the U.S. and Europe? Europe Appears to Be Rethinking Its Relationship with the U.S. and Its Attraction to ‘Traditional Values'For Europe, America was the future. Now what? by The Financial Times (Mark Mazower)Part II (14:39 - 21:16)How Do You Get Rid of a Party Which Came in Second in a Recent Election? Germany's Attempt to Squelch AfD For Being Too ‘Far Right'Is the AfD Too Extreme for Democracy? by The Atlantic (Graeme Wood)Part III (21:16 - 28:52)The Parable of Notre Dame Cathedral: Once a Wonder of Christian Truth and Transcendence Has Become a Secular Symbol in FranceSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.