Our Church Speaks

Dan and Ben discuss the life and work of Macrina the Younger, an early church mother who inherited the apostle's teaching and defended the faith through her prayer and service. More about the Our Church Speaks book and the Our Church Speaks project at ourchurchspeaks.com If you've benefited from this podcast, your support would do so much to help promote this content to a wider audience. Please consider rating our podcast and leaving a review. You can support the Our Church Speaks project financially at https://buymeacoffee.com/ourchurchspeaks?new=1

Ben and Dan recount the remarkable stories of Olaudah Equiano, William Wilberforce, and the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, including the influence of the first Great Awakening on this remarkable evangelical social reform movement. Cover art by Ben Lansing. More about the Our Church Speaks book and the Our Church Speaks project at ourchurchspeaks.com If you've benefited from this podcast, your support would do so much to help promote this content to a wider audience. Please consider rating our podcast, leaving a review, and supporting financially.

Discover the inspiring story of Esther John, a brave 20th-century Pakistani Christian martyr. Her unique journey from Kamar Zia to Esther John symbolizes her commitment to faith. The podcast explores how Isaiah 53 drew her to Christianity, emphasizing the appeal of vulnerability in her cultural context. From grassroots bicycle evangelism to her impactful local ministry, Esther’s legacy radiates character over accomplishments. Her martyrdom at age 30 continues to inspire, highlighting the importance of serving within one's own culture.

Orlando Palmer, known as I Am Son, is a musician and songwriter with roots in a musical family and a passion for church music. He and Ben delve into Johann Sebastian Bach's profound legacy as a church composer and discuss how his faith influenced his work. Orlando shares how growing up in a musical household shaped his own artistry and the significance of hymns from his grandmother. They explore the impact of congregational singing on creativity and encourage listeners to integrate music into their daily lives.

Ben and Dan talk about the Spanish teacher of the faith, Teresa of the Faith and the role and purpose of Christian Spiritual direction. Cover art by Ben Lansing. More about the Our Church Speaks book and the Our Church Speaks project at ourchurchspeaks.com If you've benefited from this podcast, your support would do so much to help promote this content to a wider audience. Please consider rating our podcast and leaving a review. You can support the Our Church Speaks project financially at https://buymeacoffee.com/ourchurchspeaks?new=1

Dive into the life of William Tyndale, the courageous reformer who translated the Bible into English. Discover how Tyndale fled to Germany to print New Testaments, defying Henry VIII’s annulment and igniting controversy. Uncover the political stakes surrounding Henry’s desperate need for a male heir and how Tyndale's work influenced the English church's future. Explore Tyndale’s lasting legacy on the English language and the Bible, provoking thought on the importance and appreciation of Scripture in today's world.

Explore the fascinating life of William Tyndale, a courageous reformer who defied the oppressive powers of his day. Discover the historical context that ignited the Reformation and Tyndale's vision for making scripture accessible to all, including the humble plowboy. Unpack the risks he faced, including fleeing to Germany to avoid persecution. Learn how the printing press transformed scripture access and the dangers authority figures feared from such widespread ideas. Tyndale's legacy as a translator and martyr continues to resonate today.

Explore the intriguing life of Francis of Assisi and his profound teachings on poverty, humility, and creation care. Discover the true meaning behind the misquoted phrase about preaching the gospel. Learn how Francis’ early experiences shaped his radical transformation from soldier to servant. Delve into his peaceful mission at the Fifth Crusade and the lasting impact of the Franciscan movement across various traditions. Plus, uncover practical ways to embrace stewardship of the Earth today while fostering unique partnerships for environmental initiatives.

Ben and Dan talk about Andrew Kim Taegon, the first ordained Korean priest and a martyr for the faith. Along the way they discuss the legacy of Korean Christianity, as a whole, and reflect on the importance of keeping the witness of the church in our perspective as we labor in our individual corner of the kingdom of God. Cover art by Ben Lansing. More about the Our Church Speaks book and the Our Church Speaks project at ourchurchspeaks.com If you've benefited from this podcast, your support would do so much to help promote this content to a wider audience. Please consider rating our podcast, leaving a review, and supporting financially at https://buymeacoffee.com/ourchurchspeaks?new=1

Delve into the extraordinary life of Hildegard of Bingen, a medieval nun whose visions shaped her as a composer and theologian. Discover her unique approach to music, blending spirituality with innovative chant styles. Explore her writings on science and medicine, reflecting her role as a pioneering figure in various fields. Learn how Hildegard's authority grew within the Church and her relevance today, bridging the gap between faith and science. This captivating journey illuminates her enduring legacy and inspiration for modern spirituality.