Liminal Living

takeawaysLauren's required reading is 'Life of Pi' for its depth.'Grapes of Wrath' illustrates systemic evil in society.Growing up in a fundamentalist bubble shaped her faith.Trauma led to a painful deconstruction of her beliefs.Emotional prosperity gospel can distort faith expectations.Therapy was a crucial step in her healing process.Traveling to India was a leap of faith for her.Cultural immersion helped her rebuild trust.Trusting oneself is a vital part of recovery.Vulnerability is essential for self-acceptance. Cultural connections can lead to profound moments of acceptance.Alienation in evangelicalism can hinder personal healing.Family dynamics often influence our ability to confront pain.Transformative experiences can occur in mundane settings.Liminal spaces encourage open-handed living and receptivity.Reincarnation offers a different perspective on death and rebirth.Travel fosters humility and a sense of wonder.Navigating relationships requires understanding and compassion.Certainty can be found in em

takeawaysBach's music exemplifies a pure expression of creativity.Creativity flows from a dance between internal and external influences.Individuality is a unique expression of the universal flow.Consciousness transcends the boundaries of ego and identity.The sacred can be found in everyday moments and experiences.Rituals can help us recognize the sacred in our lives.Creativity requires both chaos and order to flourish.The ego can hinder creativity by imposing limitations.Being present is essential to experiencing the sacred.Every moment is an opportunity to find the sacred. Creativity involves a balance between chaos and order.Both feminine and masculine energies are essential in artistic expression.Shame in music can be addressed through honest, first-person narratives.Theological language can perpetuate shame if not handled carefully.Integration of different parts of oneself leads to a more holistic identity.Non-dual perspectives can help bridge gaps in understanding spirituality.The question of identity i

takeawaysAndrew Root feels most comfortable surrounded by his books.The connection between humans and dogs is mystical and profound.Andrew's childhood experiences with grief shaped his faith.Lutheranism has a unique cultural context in the Midwest.Evangelism should focus on consolation rather than mere conversion.The church's role is to walk with people in their sorrow.Modern society struggles with deep feelings of loneliness.Evangelism is often misunderstood as a marketing strategy.Andrew's experiences highlight the importance of community support.The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of faith. Rituals are essential for happiness in modern life.Evangelism should not be seen as lifestyle marketing.Luther's theology emphasizes God's presence in suffering.Ministry of consolation is vital in addressing grief.Suffering is a universal human experience.Pilgrimage invites people to journey together in faith.Joy and celebration are crucial in community life.Happiness should not be the ultima

Take AwaysLife experiences broaden your understanding of meaning.Family significantly impacts one's perspective on life.Cultural and community influences shape personal values.Art and beauty provide a deeper understanding of existence.Navigating societal expectations can be challenging.Authenticity is crucial in personal and professional spaces.External forces can guide life in unexpected ways.Finding the right questions is more important than answers.You must integrate past experiences into your current self.Personal growth involves transcending and including past beliefs.ChaptersIntroduction and BackgroundJourney to Becoming a PastorExploring Life's MeaningThe Impact of Family on MeaningEvolving Perspectives on LifeCultural Influences on MeaningWork and Community's Role in Life's MeaningThe Role of Love and External FactorsThe Influence of External Forces on LifeThe Role of Art and Beauty in Understanding LifeNavigating Societal Norms and Personal AuthenticityFinding Meaning Through the Right Questions Spon

Keith Giles has written extensively on biblical topics, including the Book of Romans.The collaborative project with Matthew de Stefano was born out of a shared concern about the misinterpretation of Romans.Romans is often misused to justify negative ideologies, which the authors aim to correct.Understanding the structure of Paul's arguments is crucial for accurate interpretation of Romans.The technique of prosopopeia is used by Paul to present opposing viewpoints in his arguments.Many Bible teachers overlook the dual voices present in Romans, leading to misinterpretation.The authors aim to present a more compassionate and loving interpretation of Paul's teachings.Unity in the church does not require agreement on all issues, according to Paul's teachings.The clobber passages in Romans are often taken out of context and misapplied.Paul's emphasis on love and grace is a central theme that is often neglected in traditional interpretations. Romans chapter 1 addresses pagan idol worship, not modern homosexuality.Co

Show Outline:Podcast Reflections & GrowthTom’s journey from uncertainty to confidence in hosting.Lessons from awkward interviews and maintaining consistency.Peter Rollins & ParablesKevin’s college story using Rollins’ parable of the mystic, evangelical, and fundamentalist.The role of mysticism in challenging dogma.Kevin’s New Book: Cosmic Christ and Concrete JesusOrigins: Re-examining faith post-church closure and vocational shifts.Defining the “Cosmic Christ” (universal divine presence) vs. “Concrete Jesus” (liberation-focused activism).Bridging mysticism and social justice.Deconstruction & EmbodimentFaith as direct experience vs. intellectual belief.The danger of “spiritual insulation” and clichés.Black Prophetic TraditionContrasting the “white Jesus” of power with the radical, marginalized Jesus.Liberation theology’s influence on Kevin’s work.Personal & Vocational ShiftsKevin’s transition from pastoring to hospice chaplaincy.Letting go of “next things” to embrace the present.Links:Web: http

takeawaysHoward Thurman is a significant figure for understanding hope in difficult times.The current political climate creates a crisis of hope for many.Progressive Christianity can serve as a counterforce to conservative ideologies.Empathy is essential for ethical behavior and morality.There is a divide in Christianity that reflects differing beliefs about God.Fear and grievance play a significant role in conservative Christianity.The importance of social justice and activism in faith communities.Mysticism can be a pathway to understanding our spiritual lives.The need for a strong, theologically grounded progressive movement is urgent.Bad behavior often reflects a misunderstanding of God's nature. Empathy is essential in understanding differing perspectives.Progressive Christianity aims to bring health to society and the planet.Christianity must evolve to meet contemporary challenges.Experience should take precedence over rigid doctrines.Faith should be dynamic and culturally relevant.God's presence is univ

takeawaysDillon discusses the cultural diversity in Lancaster County, highlighting the coexistence of Amish and Christian nationalists.He emphasizes the importance of love and neighborly kindness in his theological approach.Dillon's writing project critiques Christian nationalism through the lens of Jesus and Paul's teachings.He expresses a desire to understand biblical figures and their teachings more deeply.The conversation touches on the significance of orthopraxy over orthodoxy in modern faith practices.Dillon shares his personal journey through fundamentalism and the impact of early religious experiences.He reflects on the challenges of reconciling faith with modern scientific understanding.The role of permaculture is discussed as a metaphor for spiritual growth and interconnectedness.Dillon's experiences in seminary led to a deeper exploration of theology and spirituality.The conversation concludes with a focus on finding community and meaning in a changing world. Navigating post-fundamentalism involves

Key TakeawaysChristian Nationalism Defined: A political ideology merging American and Christian identities, often excluding non-Christians and enforcing conservative, white supremacist norms.Historical Roots: Christian nationalism is intertwined with the doctrine of discovery, slavery, and segregation, using faith to justify oppression.Power Over Principles: The alignment of some Christian groups with political power (e.g., Trump-era policies) often sacrifices theological integrity for influence.Violence and Symbolism: Events like the Tree of Life Synagogue shooting and January 6th Capitol attack exemplify Christian nationalism’s violent consequences.Hope in Community: Grassroots conversations, honest history, and interfaith solidarity are vital to resisting Christian nationalism and fostering healing.Chapter BreakdownAmanda’s Faith & Political Roots (00:00–15:00)Growing up in a Baptist family in Texas.Early passion for politics, career in law, and work with Rep. Lloyd Doggett.Faith, Power, and Disillusio

Key TakeawaysFrom Beliefs to Practice: Aaron advocates for shifting from a beliefs-based faith to a practice-based spirituality, where doing (e.g., forgiveness, liturgy, service) shapes belief more than intellectual assent.Ecumenical Future: The future of faith communities lies in crossing denominational silos, integrating traditions (e.g., evangelical hospitality with liturgical depth), and creating spaces for diverse expressions of worship.Critique of American Christianity: Both progressive and conservative Christian traditions often prioritize cultural power (e.g., nationalism, consumerism) over the "enemy-loving, peacemaking way of Jesus."Embodied Spirituality: Practices like the Ignatian Examen, centering prayer, and communal lament help re-enchant faith by grounding it in the body and daily life.Soundtrack of Struggle: Aaron’s current spiritual "soundtrack" is the Icelandic band Sigur Rós, whose haunting, wordless music mirrors his mix of disillusionment and hope.Chapter BreakdownIntroductions & Sou

takeawaysGrounding in spiritual practices is essential during chaotic times.Community support can provide strength and resilience.Limiting social media exposure can help maintain mental health.Deconstruction can be a transformative process, akin to a caterpillar becoming a butterfly.Creativity can serve as a pathway to hope and healing.Intentionality in actions can turn everyday activities into spiritual practices.Listening to marginalized voices is crucial for rebuilding faith and community.Open conversations about political differences can foster understanding.Betrayal can stem from political choices that affect loved ones.Hope is vital for navigating through difficult times. Empathy can be challenging when political views clash.Cocooning is a valid way to protect oneself from harm.Storytelling humanizes experiences and fosters connection.Finding voices that inspire hope is crucial in difficult times.Creating safe spaces in community is essential for open dialogue.Speaking up for justice is a responsibility

takeawaysDanny Bryant grew up in a religious cult that emphasized moral perfection.Literature played a significant role in shaping Danny's worldview and personal growth.Leaving the cult was a long and complex process for Danny, taking over a decade.Danny's experience in the cult led him to question many beliefs and seek a more inclusive faith.The trauma from his upbringing continues to influence Danny's life and work as a pastor.Danny aims to prove that pastoral care can be done with integrity and love, not control and shame.He draws parallels between cult mentality and systemic issues like whiteness and social justice.Danny believes that understanding whiteness is crucial for addressing social injustices.He emphasizes the importance of being in touch with our bodily existence and emotions.Danny's journey reflects a broader narrative of healing and transformation in the face of trauma. The richness of truth can be overwhelming and transformative.Assimilation into dominant cultures often leads to heartbreak an

takeawaysBad theology shapes harmful societal priorities.Our understanding of God influences our actions.Genesis 1 introduces God as a creator from chaos.Jesus embodies the Word that brings order.Creation reflects a rhythm of forming and filling.Humans are stewards of God's creation, not slaves.Rest is essential for sustaining life and faith.The biblical narrative invites trust in God's provision.The chaos of society mirrors the darkness in Genesis 1.God's creation is abundant and meant for thriving. The Tower of Babel story reflects the temptation to empire.God's desire is for humanity to enjoy life without the chaos of empire.Our quest for efficiency can harm our relationship with the earth.Scarcity is a human construct, not part of God's design.God is actively working in ways we may not immediately see.The Holy Spirit represents a divine exhale for humanity.Unity in diversity is a key theme in the reconciliation of Babel.God's mercy is widening to include all of humanity.Chaos introduced by humanity can le

TakeawaysBrandon's morning routine includes ice baths for wellness.Experiencing a sense of goodness at a young age shaped Brandon's faith.Faith can provide structure but should not be overly rigid.Questions about faith can lead to feeling on the fringes of religious communities.Confession and vulnerability can deepen community connections.Books can profoundly impact one's understanding of faith.The essence of faith may be mistaken for its constructs.Asking questions about the gospel can challenge traditional beliefs.Personal experiences shape one's understanding of spirituality.Navigating faith involves balancing personal beliefs with community expectations. The gospel is fundamentally about the Kingdom of God.Many Christians focus solely on the death and resurrection, neglecting the broader gospel message.Embodiment is crucial in living out the gospel in our daily lives.The journey of faith often involves significant transformation and personal growth.Shalom represents a deep, holistic peace that encompasses

takeawaysDavid's early experiences shaped his adventurous spirit.He has a diverse background in various Christian denominations.His journey in faith has been marked by exploration and questioning.A pivotal moment in seminary led to a crisis of faith.David emphasizes the importance of navigating between faith and doubt.He experienced a profound flash of insight about the oneness of all things.David's blog, Naked Pastor, became a platform for his thoughts on spirituality.He believes every theology has something to contribute.David's departure from ministry was both traumatic and liberating.He encourages others to explore their own spiritual journeys. Existential crises can lead to profound insights about faith and ministry.Redefining pastoral roles can create a more inclusive community.Love must manifest in policies to be truly effective.Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and connection.Diversity within communities enriches the spiritual experience.The church has both pastoral and prophetic responsibiliti

takeawaysDr. Bauman's book addresses sexism and abuse in the church.He conducted extensive research with over 2,800 women.The church has a history of silencing women's experiences.Authenticity is crucial in addressing personal and communal trauma.Patriarchy fosters a culture of secrecy and shame.Weaponizing forgiveness can harm victims of abuse.Theological beliefs should evolve and shed outdated ideas.Men's insecurities often lead to abusive behaviors.The church must confront its complicity in abuse.Healing requires facing pain rather than bypassing it. Forgiveness can sometimes be weaponized in abusive situations.Emotional and spiritual abuse often goes unrecognized.Healthy shame encourages accountability, while toxic shame dehumanizes.Entitlement can stem from suffering, leading to harmful behaviors.Trusting our bodies is essential for spiritual health.Men must actively work against sexism and objectification.Systems in the church often prioritize power over people.Jesus's actions challenged the patriarchal

takeawaysTaylor is currently fascinated by Nosferatu and its historical context.Nosferatu represents a preconception of vampires before they became romanticized.Horror films often reflect societal anxieties and fears.Taylor's upbringing in Appalachia was marked by a unique blend of faith traditions.A progressive preacher changed Taylor's perspective on Christianity.Thomas Merton's teachings had a profound impact on Taylor's faith journey.Taylor distinguishes between a personal God and a more abstract ground of being.Tillich's philosophy offers a nuanced understanding of divinity.The conversation highlights the tension between traditional and progressive theology.Philosophy encourages exploration of complex questions in faith and existence. Metaphysics is inherently theological, addressing fundamental questions of reality.Existentialism encompasses both religious and atheistic perspectives.Freedom can be both empowering and stifling, leading to anxiety about choices.Justice should be the foundation of societal

Take AwaysLiz became a birth doula after her own experiences with childbirth.The process of becoming a mother can be isolating and taboo.Doulas provide emotional and psychological support during childbirth.Birth is a transformative experience for families, not just individuals.Liz's work as a doula involved helping families navigate their expectations and fears.Women in leadership roles often face unique challenges in church settings.Liz's faith journey involved significant personal and familial dynamics.Therapy played a crucial role in Liz's faith deconstruction.The Bible's interpretation can vary greatly depending on cultural context.Liz's book explores seeking God in Genesis after losing faith in the Bible. Reading Genesis requires a surrender to the story.Ancient texts reflect a deep commitment to preservation.Understanding characters in Genesis offers rich insights.Hagar's story represents themes of liberation and survival.Diverse perspectives enhance our understanding of scripture.The craft of writing a