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Almost Heretical

#146 – Dana Hicks: Trading Conservative Dogma for Liberal Dogma

Oct 9, 2024
Dana Hicks, a retired pastor, professor, and author of 'The Quest for Thin Places,' shares his transformative journey from conservative dogma to a more liberal spiritual understanding. He explores how psychedelic experiences can deepen spiritual connections and emphasizes the necessity of awe in our lives post-deconstruction. The discussion touches on challenges faced by pastors during the pandemic, the generational impact of technology on spirituality, and the importance of evolving beliefs for personal growth.
01:08:03

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Quick takeaways

  • Dana Hicks emphasizes that deconstructing faith requires individuals to differentiate between true spirituality and rigid religious dogma imposed by institutions.
  • He highlights the transformative power of awe and presence in spiritual exploration, suggesting that modern distractions inhibit genuine connections with the divine.

Deep dives

The Journey of Deconstruction

Dana Hicks, a retired pastor and professor, shares his personal journey through deconstruction from traditional Christianity to a more open understanding of spirituality. He reflects on the challenges faced while questioning long-held beliefs during his 30 years in ministry, including the financial and emotional toll of a collapsed marriage and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his church. These experiences pushed him to explore his thoughts and redefine his understanding of faith outside the constraints of institutional expectations. His book, 'The Quest for Thin Places,' serves as both a personal reflection and a guide for others seeking their path after encountering disillusionment with the church.

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