The Surprising Rebirth Of Belief In God S2 E25. Live from Big Church Festival: Lauren Windle, Ben Sixsmith, Martin Shaw, Andy Wolfe & Andrew Ollerton.
Oct 21, 2025
Lauren Windle, a journalist and author, shares her powerful journey from drug addiction to faith through a supportive church community. Agnostic journalist Ben Sixsmith reflects on his evangelical upbringing and how cultural changes invite Gen Z to explore spirituality. Mythologist Martin Shaw recounts his unique conversion experience and thoughts on wild Christianity. Andrew Ollerton and Andy Wolfe discuss the rising interest in the Bible among young people, linking it to mental health and identity in schools.
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From Church Rejection To Long-Term Recovery
- Lauren Windle recounted leaving church at 13 after seeing hypocrisy, then spiraling into alcohol and cocaine addiction through her twenties.
- She entered recovery via a 12-step group on 22 April 2014 and has been sober for over 11 years.
Use A Higher Power And Community In Recovery
- Recovery programs encourage people to identify a higher power greater than themselves as part of sustained sobriety.
- Try exploring spiritual options and community support rather than relying on solo willpower.
Younger Generations Less Burdened By Church Baggage
- Lauren argues younger generations feel less burdened by historical church abuse and so are more open to spiritual exploration.
- She hopes those dabbling in other spiritualities will find Christianity's answers compelling.
