Smells Like Teenage Phenomenology with J. Aaron Simmons LIVE from #PYM17
Jun 9, 2017
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J. Aaron Simmons, a philosopher and speaker at the Progressive Youth Ministry conference, leads an engaging discussion with Lauren Winner and Ryan Newsome. They explore the intriguing concept of phenomenology and its relevance in youth ministry. Aaron shares a live demonstration of phenomenological reduction, making complex ideas accessible. The trio also humorously navigates cultural clashes at a Pentecostal concert, emphasizing the need for inclusivity in faith and philosophy while engaging teenagers in authentic conversations about their experiences.
Phenomenology emphasizes the importance of lived experiences in faith, challenging traditional separations between thought and practice in ministry.
The Progressive Youth Ministry Conference fosters an inclusive environment for youth ministers, promoting shared human experiences over rigid doctrinal differences.
Deep dives
Progressive Youth Ministry Conference Relevance
The Progressive Youth Ministry Conference is highlighted as a significant gathering for progressive youth ministers who prioritize love for Jesus, care for the planet, and inclusion. Attendees seek to create an accepting environment that diverges from traditional views focused on doctrines like 'true love waits' and 'penal substitution.' The conference fosters community among youth workers, allowing them to share ideas and gain inspiration from each other. This engaging atmosphere makes it an attractive option for youth ministers looking for worthwhile conferences to attend.
Understanding Phenomenology in Ministry
Phenomenology is introduced as a philosophical approach that emphasizes the importance of human lived experiences in understanding the world. It proposes that our ideas about the world emerge from our direct experiences rather than just abstract reasoning. The discussion includes how phenomenology can inform ministry, particularly by focusing on how individuals experience faith and spirituality within their contexts. This perspective challenges traditional separations between the thinker and the thought, urging a more integrated approach to faith practices.
The Role of Experience in Pentecostal Faith
The conversation examines the significance of embodied experiences in Pentecostalism, specifically in the context of glossolalia or speaking in tongues. It explores the idea that encounters with the divine do not conform to rational expectations but are rather expressions of the body's response to profound spiritual intimacy. This affirms the belief that the phenomenological aspects of faith allow individuals to engage with the sacred beyond mere intellectual understanding. The panelists argue that these lived experiences should not be dismissed but rather celebrated as they embody the complexity of faith.
Intersection of Experience and Theology
The final discussion revolves around how recognizing shared human experiences can bridge divides between different theological perspectives. By starting from common existential realities rather than rigid doctrinal positions, conversations become more inclusive and open to discovering diverse interpretations of faith. The panelists suggest that engaging with life's messiness allows for a more profound understanding of God’s presence in human experiences. This approach encourages individuals from various theological backgrounds to find common ground through shared experiences and insights.
J. Aaron Simmons, Lauren Winner, and Ryan Newsome were all on stage for the live podcast from the Progressive Youth Ministry conference at Montreat in North Carolina. PYM just announced details for next year's conference, so make sure to check progressiveyouthministry.org for more.
This episode includes the full interview with Aaron Simmons from this past March. If you want the full live podcast experience you'll have to come in person next year! Big thanks to the Center for Process Studies for sponsoring (and providing the beer).
Tripp and co-host Tony Jones talked with Aaron about what exactly phenomenology is, what it's like being a phenomenological philosopher and Pentecostal, why phenomenology is different than the philosophical framework that came before it, Heidegger on subjectivity and self-hood, plus, Aaron gives a live phenomenological reduction demonstration.
Throughout, Tripp explains how to teach phenomenology to teenagers in confirmation classes and why every youth minister should be a phenomenologist.