Pete Sutton, a seasoned Pastor of Student Ministry at Compass Church in Naperville, shares insights from nearly three decades in youth ministry. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and genuine relationships over conventional programming. The discussion highlights fostering intergenerational support and navigating the impact of technology on mental health. Sutton advocates for inclusive ministry, addressing LGBTQ+ youth issues, and creating welcoming spaces for faith exploration, while suggesting essential resources to transform youth ministry practices.

Chad and Adaeze Brinkman, a mixed-race couple and co-authors of "White Boy, Black Girl," share their journey of love and faith. They discuss the complexities of navigating race in their relationship and the importance of open communication in interracial dynamics. Personal anecdotes highlight the challenges they've faced, emphasizing vulnerability and honesty. They also touch on reclaiming cultural identities through name pronunciation and engage in a lighthearted conversation about their favorite craft beverages, blending serious topics with fun insights.

This episode is a talk I gave at the Center for Pastor Theologians annual conference held in Oak Park, IL, in September 2024. In this talk, I try to unpack what the Bible says about a Christian political identity by looking at the Scriptural themes of exile and Babylon. The talk was received fairly well, espeically by the Anabaptists in the back, who were hootin' and hollerin'. Others had some really thoughtful questions and pushback. --If you've enjoyed this content, please subscribe to my channel!Support Theology in the Raw through Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theologyintherawOr you can support me directly through Venmo: @Preston-Sprinkle-1Visit my personal website: https://www.prestonsprinkle.comFor questions about faith, sexuality & gender: https://www.centerforfaith.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ashleigh Hull is the Emerging Generations Associate at Living Out Ministries, specializing in helping youth navigate faith and sexuality. She shares her personal journey of reconciling same-sex attraction with her faith. The conversation highlights the significance of open dialogue in the church about sexuality and identity. Ashleigh also emphasizes the value of both singleness and community, advocating for support among church members to address loneliness. Lastly, she introduces Living Out's resource, Kaleidoscope, aimed at empowering young people.

In this discussion, Dr. Walter R. Strickland II, a theologian and pastor, delves into the intricate history of Black Christianity in America. He explores the transformative power of spirituality amidst oppression, highlighting the influence of Martin Luther King Sr. and the emergence of the Black social gospel. The conversation touches on the Black church's vital role in social justice and community empowerment, as well as the historical struggles of race and gender within this context. Strickland also reflects on the evolution of the Black church and its educational impact on future generations.

Brad Sarian, the lead pastor of Restored Church LA, passionately shares insights from his journey in church planting. He discusses navigating the complexities of leadership and the importance of clear communication in fostering community. Highlighting the need for adaptive youth ministry strategies, he emphasizes personal engagement and mentorship. Sarian also reflects on evolving gender roles within the church, advocating for inclusivity and recognizing women's vital contributions. His experiences underscore the enriching power of community and the love of Jesus.

This discussion dives into the complexities of church governance and how it aligns with biblical teachings. It challenges the idea of a single model for church structure, advocating for diverse, community-driven approaches. The conversation also explores non-literal interpretations of biblical parables and addresses generational curses, examining their effects on behavior. Additionally, it highlights the role of nonviolent protest in promoting social change and underscores the importance of ethical discernment in activism.

Bekah Yawn is a fertility awareness educator and certified doula dedicated to empowering women in understanding their reproductive health. She discusses the significant impact of hormones and diet on fertility, emphasizing a holistic approach. The conversation critiques hormonal birth control and explores the physical and emotional aspects of menstrual cycles. Bekah also addresses current topics, such as the COVID vaccine's potential effects on menstrual health, advocating for education and natural family planning.

Raeanne Newquist, who joined Mercy Ships in 2019 with her family, shares her inspiring journey of service aboard a floating hospital in West Africa. She discusses the balance of family life and volunteering, revealing the emotional impact of bringing surgical care to those in need. Raeanne highlights the challenges of communal living on a ship and the bond created among diverse crew members. She also reflects on the transformative influence of medical missions, emphasizing the importance of community and shared responsibility during her remarkable experiences.

A 23-year-old woman with Dissociative Identity Disorder shares her journey of healing with her father, a former pastor. They delve into the complexities of having over 100 alters and how childhood trauma shapes their experiences. The discussion addresses the stigma surrounding DID, correcting misconceptions from films like 'Split.' Personal stories highlight the emotional challenges and the importance of understanding diverse mental health experiences. The conversation promotes empathy and awareness for the struggles of those living with DID.