Open, Relational, & Process Churches? - With Nichole Torbitzky, Vikki Randall, & Jeff Wells
Jul 31, 2024
auto_awesome
Nichole Torbitzky, a contributor on Open & Relational Theology, Vikki Randall, who specializes in pastoral care practices, and Jeff Wells, an author on church leadership, engage in a vibrant discussion. They explore the practical application of Open & Relational thought in leadership and preaching. The guests also share insights on the importance of flexible theology, compassionate pastoral care, and the evolving nature of communal worship. Their focus on grief, empathy, and playful language highlights a fresh approach to spirituality in contemporary church settings.
Participants share personal journeys illustrating how open and relational theology transformed their understanding of suffering and ministry approaches.
The role of liturgy is highlighted as essential for fostering community inclusivity and deeper connections with God in worship practices.
Open and relational theology influences preaching and leadership by promoting gradual, respectful discussions that support individual faith journeys and inclusivity.
Deep dives
Understanding Open and Relational Theology
Participants share their personal journeys toward open and relational theology, highlighting its significance in their lives. Vicky discusses her early exposure to open theism during a doctoral program, emphasizing how it helped her make sense of suffering while in a Calvinist denomination. Nicole reflects on her introduction to process theology during her undergraduate studies, noting how it transformed her ministry approach. Jeff, the newest member of this theological movement, explains how an intensive study of process theology has positively impacted his congregation's engagement with it.
The Impact of Liturgy
The conversation explores the role of liturgy within open and relational theology, highlighting its importance for community worship. Participants share their experiences transitioning from non-denominational views that dismissed liturgy to appreciating its relational aspects. The discussion underscores liturgy as a comforting framework that allows individuals to engage with God while acknowledging personal and communal transformations over time. They collectively agree that a relational approach to liturgy fosters community inclusivity and deeper connections with God.
The Nature of Prayer
Participants delve into the intricacies of prayer from an open and relational perspective, emphasizing its partnership with God rather than seeking divine intervention. They illustrate how this perspective fosters confidence in prayer, allowing individuals to express their desires while understanding that God's will aligns with their own wishes for goodness and healing. Acknowledging different personal circumstances, they describe how pastoral roles require sensitivity, especially when addressing suffering and loss. The respect given to complex emotions during prayer highlights the flexibility and relational dynamics inherent in their approach to ministry.
Preaching and Leadership Styles
The dialogue shifts to how open and relational theology influences preaching methods and leadership styles in congregations. Participants emphasize a gradual, intentional teaching approach to help congregants transition from traditional to progressive theological views. They emphasize the importance of creating discussions that move away from coercive language, fostering a nurturing environment that respects individual journeys of faith. Through collaboration and communal worship planning, these leaders strive for inclusivity while effectively presenting open and relational theological ideas.
Pastoral Care and Community Engagement
The final segment addresses pastoral care approaches rooted in open and relational theology, emphasizing empathy and presence during critical moments. The conversation highlights the delicate balance of providing comfort without imposing stricter theological interpretations in times of suffering. They discuss strategies for fostering supportive relationships within communities, allowing individuals to share their experiences freely. Their shared commitment to highlighting a non-controlling, loving God shines through as they discuss engaging marginalized communities without assertive power dynamics.
This week I was joined by not one, not two, but three guests to discuss their edited volume "Preaching the Uncontrolling Love of God". Nichole Torbitzky, Vikki Randall, & Jeff Wells join the show to get pragmatic and put Open & Relational Theology to work. What would it look like to apply Open & Relational thought to our Leadership, Preaching, and Pastoral care? Is it possible to find a church that is Open and Relational? This was a fun conversation getting three different perspectives on these kinds of questions. The volume they edited together, along with Thomas Jay Oord, has over 75 essays including sermons and worship elements from within an Open and Relational framework. It is a great resources for clergy and lay members alike. Enjoy!
Get your tickets from Theology Beer Camp 2024 HERE. Use code RETHINKINGBAGGINS for $50 off your cost of admission.
*A special thanks to Josh Gilbert for managing the podcast, Marty Fredrick for producing the podcast, and Dan Koch for providing the music for the podcast. Love you guys <3*