New models of clergy credentialing: Jonathan Foster talks about the Open Table Network

Apr 30, 2024

Jonathan Foster discusses the Open Table Network providing credentialing for marginalized clergy. He explores the shift from centralized institutions to local communities, denominational splintering, and ministry challenges. The conversation includes reflections on grief, the journey out of traditional denominations, and trends in clergy credentialing. Foster emphasizes empowering individuals and love as core values in clergy credentialing.

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Introduction

00:00 • 2min

Exploration of Personal Journey, Coping with Loss, and Spiritual Practices

02:02 • 3min

Formation of Open Table Network

04:43 • 21min

Trends in Denominational Fragmentation and Christian Nationalism

25:48 • 12min

Navigating Career Transitions in Ministry

37:22 • 5min

Redefining Spiritual Leadership and Love in Modern Contexts

42:34 • 14min

Connecting with Jonathan Foster Online and a Message of Peace

56:21 • 3min

With the breakdown of institutions and denominations, faltering also are the credentialing methods for pastors and clergy. In this conversation, Jonathan Foster joins the show to talk about Open Table Network, a clergy network that provides credentialing and support for pastors, chaplains, and counselors who have been excluded or marginalized by their faith traditions. With culture moving away from "big tent" institutions to affinity groups, Foster acknowledges the dangers of such but emphasizes the importance of local missional communities and empowering individuals rather than building centralized institutions. He also discusses the trend of denominations splintering and sees the value in smaller, more localized groups. The conversation explores the complexities of ministry credentialing and the challenges faced by spiritual leaders in the current age. It also delves into the theme of grief and the experiences of those who have transitioned out of traditional denominations.

Jonathan is the partner of one, father of three, author, podcaster, lowercase t-theologian with some degrees, founder of lovehaiti.org, and a lover of mountains (oh, and colorado school of mines) and in general, a solvem probler extraordinaire. Find out more at jonathanfosteronline.com

Previous Episode with Jonathan:

https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/jonathan-foster-on-the-path-of-reconstruction/

Presenting Sponsor:

Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world.

Supporting Sponsors:

I Help Pastors Get Jobs: Use code 'futurechristian'

Torn Curtain Arts is a non-profit ministry that works with worship leaders, creatives, and churches to help avoid burnout, love their work, and realize their full creative potential.

Future Christian Team:

Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer

Martha Tatarnic – Guest Host / Co-Host

Paul Romig–Leavitt – Executive Producer

Danny Burton - Producer

Dennis Sanders – Producer