The Radical Coloring of Advent with Christopher Rodkey
Dec 11, 2017
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Christopher Rodkey, a radical theologian and church planter, joins co-creators Jesse and Natalie Turri to discuss their unique Advent coloring book. They delve into the creative process behind blending theology with artistic expression. Rodkey shares insights on the political implications of Advent and contrasts radical theology with the commercialization of Christmas. The trio also explores innovative church planting strategies, advocating for intergenerational engagement and practical applications of biblical hermeneutics.
The creation of the Advent coloring book serves as an engaging alternative to traditional commercial Christmas celebrations, fostering reflection and creativity.
Radical theology positions the incarnation as a transformative historical event, emphasizing the need for theological reflection during the Advent season.
Dr. Rodky's unconventional church planting methods prioritize conversational engagement and societal issues, aiming to connect faith discussions with younger demographics.
Deep dives
The Advent Coloring Book Initiative
An adult coloring book designed for the Advent season has been created to provide an engaging and meaningful alternative for both adults and children in the church community. The project originated from the need for a resource that connected the concept of Advent beyond the commercialized aspects of Christmas. Collaborating with Jesse Turi, the Reverend Dr. Christopher Rodky developed this project by using the readings from the revised common lectionary and incorporating thoughtful artistic designs. The goal was to produce a devotional experience that encourages reflection and creativity, resulting in positive feedback from those who have utilized the book during church gatherings.
Radical Theology and the Centrality of Incarnation
The discussion around radical theology emphasizes the significance of incarnation during the Advent season, portraying it as the core event of Christian theology. This approach challenges conventional narratives by framing the incarnation as a transformative rupture in history rather than simply the birth of Jesus. Dr. Rodky highlights the importance of advent as a time of preparation for God's entry into the world, using storytelling to illustrate the profound implications of this event. By fostering a deeper understanding of incarnation, the project seeks to shift the narrative from a commercial celebration to a moment of theological reflection.
Innovative Church Planting Strategies
Rev. Dr. Rodky is exploring unconventional church planting methods, inspired by successful engagement strategies that cater to younger demographics. He has initiated a new community called the 'sacred profane community,' which aims to combine informal gatherings with theological discussions. This model departs from conventional worship services by focusing on topical conversations and connecting them to biblical hermeneutics rather than traditional music or communion practices. By prioritizing a conversational approach and community engagement, the initiative seeks to revitalizing faith discussions in a progressively minded setting.
Engagement with Contemporary Issues
Dr. Rodky's efforts in church planting also incorporate discussions on contemporary societal issues, linking them to theological discourse. For example, one planned gathering aims to examine the virgin birth narrative, prompting thoughtful debate on its implications in relation to sexuality and societal perceptions. This encourages participants to approach theological questions through a broader lens that fosters critical thinking and engagement. By addressing such topics, the initiative aims to create a welcoming environment for those who may feel disconnected from traditional religious practices.
The Radical Theology Handbook Project
The upcoming Radical Theology Handbook is set to provide a comprehensive reference on radical theology, marking a significant contribution to the field since the 1960s. Co-edited by Dr. Rodky and Jordan Miller, the volume collects contributions from various scholars, offering insights into historical and contemporary figures within radical theology. The aim is to make complex theological ideas accessible to students and the general public, facilitating scholarly dialogue and further research. This project seeks to not only document the richness of radical theology but also to revitalize interest and exploration into its diverse implications.
Rev. Dr. Christopher Rodkey, the sermonizer of radical theology, is back to talk about Advent, radical theology, and church planting.
Make sure to check out the Coloring Advent coloring book with Jesse and Natalie Turri (also Coloring Lent). Christopher talks with Tripp about why they made an Advent coloring book, what led to its development, and what the process of creating a theological coloring book was like.
Christopher also talks about how a radical theologian approaches Advent, the centrality of incarnation and kenosis, and how they are in contrast to the more commercialized approach to Advent. Tripp and Christopher also talk about:
the political aspects of Advent,
what is it that we are lamenting when we talk about the secularization of Christmas?
did the Grinch become Christian?
preaching Advent
The conversation also touches on Christopher's experiment with church planting within a church, rethinking adult VBS, and using biblical hermeneutics as a way of approaching the world. He gets really practical, gives a ton of great advice for seminarians, pastors, and all people who care about the future of the church. Plus you'll get to hear about his passion project, The Radical theology Handbook.