In Good Faith

In this unique episode of 'In Good Faith,' guests come together on the SS IGF to explore the intersections of spirituality and Star Trek. Rob Monson of 3 Black Men, Dan Libenson of Judaism Unbound, Carl Youngblood of Mormon Transhumanism, Barry Lam of Hi-Phi Nation, and friend of the show Reverend Dani Lee discuss their favorite Star Trek series and episodes, reflecting on how the show's themes have influenced their lives and spiritual beliefs. The conversation also delves into broader theological questions, such as the value of suffering, the possibility of AI as a messianic figure, and the enduring appeal of Star Trek's optimistic vision for the future.

This episode explores the intersection of neurodiversity and spirituality, featuring three guests diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), David Gray Hammond, Father Matthew P. Schneider, and David Derbyshire. Each shares their insights on how autism impacts their spiritual lives and their unique relationship with God. David Gray Hammond, diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and schizophrenia, discusses how his diagnoses shaped his spirituality. Father Matthew P. Schneider talks about his journey as an autistic Catholic priest, emphasizing how his diagnosis redefined his spiritual path. David Derbyshire reflects on how his Asperger's diagnosis enhances his spiritual journey and helps him coach others. The episode delves into the strengths and challenges neurodivergent individuals experience in their faith communities, advocating for inclusivity and understanding. Practical ways to accommodate neurodivergent worshippers are discussed, emphasizing the importance of creating safe, welcoming spiritual spaces for all.

Jared Stewart shares how he, as someone diagnosed with autism, found a unique personal connection with God and offers insights into the neurodivergent experience in religious settings. He talks about the diversity within the autism spectrum, common misunderstandings, and offers suggestions on how congregations can better support neurodivergent members. Jared Stewart has spent over two decades working with neurodivergent adolescents and adults as a teacher, life coach, and licensed behavior analyst, and has shared his views on the techniques and mindsets that lead to improved outcomes for these individuals with audiences in over 18 countries. His passion for the subject arises from personal experience: he has numerous family members on the Spectrum, and he was diagnosed with autism himself as an adult.

Rev. Dr. Katie O'Dunne discusses her experiences with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), including scrupulosity, and her journey through faith and healing. She shares deeply personal anecdotes about how it impacted her ministry, and her efforts to raise awareness and provide support within faith communities. Katie O'Dunne founded 'Stick with the Ick,' a virtual community for those navigating faith and OCD. An ordained minister in the United Church of Christ, she spent 7 years as the Academy Chaplain and Chair of Religious Studies at Woodward Academy in Atlanta, simultaneously consulting on interfaith programming nationwide. She is also the proud recipient of the award for "distinction in integrative care practices" from Vanderbilt's Doctor of Ministry program.

James Finley shares how he found solace in God amidst family trauma, inspired by Thomas Merton's writings, ultimately becoming a therapist and author. James Finley is faculty member of the Center for Action and Contemplation. Fr. Thomas Merton was Finley’s novice master and spiritual director while he was a monk at the Trappist monastery of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Kentucky. He earned his Ph.D. in clinical psychology and primarily works with people suffering from the long-term effects of internalized trauma and how contemplative prayer can increase their quality of life. He has written numerous books (most recently his memoir, “The Healing Path” in 2022) and he currently hosts the podcast Turning to the Mystics. Dr. Finley will present at the upcoming Faith & Science conference: https://www.faithandscience.eu/

Jennifer Wiseman. PhD., emphasizes the importance of humility and curiosity in both scientific and spiritual endeavors, while also sharing personal experiences of awe and wonder. Dr. Jennifer Wiseman is an astrophysicist, author, and speaker. She studies the process of star and planet formation in our galaxy using radio, optical, and infrared telescopes. She is the Director Emeritus of the program of Dialogue on Science, Ethics, and Religion (DoSER) for the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Dr. Wiseman studied physics at MIT, co-discovering comet Wiseman-Skiff in 1987, and continued in astronomy with her doctoral research at Harvard. She has worked with several international observatories and is currently a senior astrophysicist at the Goddard Space Flight Center. Dr. Wiseman is a Fellow of the American Scientific Affiliation, a network of Christians in Science. Dr. Wiseman will present at the upcoming Faith & Science conference: https://www.faithandscience.eu/

Harold Koenig discusses how patients' religious beliefs and practices significantly impact their health and recovery, a realization that stemmed from his days as a nurse and later reinforced during his medical and psychiatric practice. Harold Koenig is Director of the Center for Spirituality, Theology & Health and Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Duke University. He is the lead author of the Handbook of Religion and Health, the seminal research text on the relationship between theistic religion, interfaith worship, and meditative prayer, which is the most cited of all references on religion and health. He has published 65 books on the subject. In 2022 he was ranked 1st in the world by ScholarGPS in the academic discipline of spirituality. Dr. Koenig will present at the upcoming Faith & Science conference: https://www.faithandscience.eu/

Rabbi Adina Allen discusses the profound connection between creativity, spirituality, and healing. She emphasizes that art and creativity are divine acts; the spiritual practice of creative expression is essential to understanding God. Rabbi Adina Allen is cofounder and creative director of Jewish Studio Project (JSP), an organization that sees creativity as a force for spiritual connection and social transformation. Based on the work of her mother, renowned art therapist Pat B. Allen, Adina developed the Jewish Studio Process, a methodology for unlocking creativity, and is the author of The Place of All Possibility: Cultivating Creativity Through Ancient Jewish Wisdom (Ayin, 2024).

Robert Hesse, PhD., talks with Steve about a mystical experience that deeply affected his life and outlook. Hesse also describes his journey back to faith after years away, inspired by Thomas Merton's writings. Robert Hesse is a Catholic deacon and Chairman and Co-Founder of interfaith Contemplative Network. He is a practicing mystic and author of Faith and Science: A Journey into God’s Mystical Love. He holds a Ph.D. in physical chemistry. He has co-authored neuroscience research studies on improvements in quality-of-life associated with interfaith contemplative prayer. Check out details for the Faith & Science Conference at https://www.faithandscience.eu/.

Zeyneb Sayilgan is a Muslim woman who grew up in Germany as the daughter of Turkish immigrants, where she faced discrimination and challenges due to her faith. She speaks about her move to the United States, where she found a more accepting environment. Zeyneb Sayilgan is the host of the Podcast On Being Muslim: Wisdom from the Risale-i Nur. Her work has appeared in scholarly and popular journals like DIALOG, Religion News Service, Covenant, U.S.Catholic, in German media outlets like Qantara, MIGAZIN, IslamIQ, Islamische Zeitung and Turkish publications like Perspektif.