Gravity Commons Podcast

We talked with Licensed Clinical Social Worker Will Harrison, Jr. about living with Moebius Syndrome, a rare disability that affects his facial expressions and speech, and about what he has learned at the intersection of disability, faith, and deconstruction. Will reflects on his upbringing in a Southern Baptist church, the challenges he faced in pursuing a career in youth ministry, and his eventual transition to social work. Will discusses the stark differences in how his disability was perceived in the church compared to the secular world, and how his faith journey has evolved. He emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in both church and community settings and the transformative power of relationships across differences.Will Harrison, Jr. is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. He is married with six kids. He enjoys hiking, reading, and coffee. Over the past few years Will has been working through what it looks like to be post-evangelical, navigating faith and reality.Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We talked with author and activist Regina Cates about how to have brave and thoughtful conversations about difficult topics like sexual abuse, racism, religious and political corruption, abortion, and sexual orientation. Her book The Real Conversation Jesus Wants Us to Have is part memoir, part social commentary, and part call to action, and it invites all people of good faith to more fully embody Jesus's message by taking up his call to love our neighbors as ourselves. Regina V. Cates is an author, activist, podcaster, and founder of "Romancing Your Soul," an organization that helps people develop lives of love, compassion, and purpose. Her first internationally bestselling book, Lead with Your Heart, continues to be an inspiration to people who desire a more fulfilled life. You can connect with Regina at her website, reginavcates.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We talked with pastor and author Isaac Villegas about his on-the-ground justice activism for immigrants. His book Migrant God: A Christian Vision for Immigrant Justice cuts a new path through worn-out talking points and bears witness to loving solidarity among Christians--both with and without US citizenship--and offers a theologically astute and politically rich vision of beloved community. You can connect with Isaac and his work on his website isaacvillegas.com.Isaac Samuel Villegas served as the pastor of Chapel Hill Mennonite Fellowship for sixteen years and served on the governing board of the NC Council of Churches for over a decade. He writes regularly as a columnist for The Christian Century and Anabaptist World magazines, and his writing has also appeared in many other publications including Commonweal, Sojourners, and Faith & Leadership. Connect with Gravity Commons:Leave us a message or ask a question about this or any other episode and we'll answer it on a future episode.Join the Gravity Community to interact with other listeners, and get our list of curated links each week to all things edifying and interesting.Are you interested in advertising on the Gravity Podcast? Contact us at podcast@gravitycommons.com.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/gravity-leadership-podcast/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Marc Alan Schelske, a pastor and author of 'Journaling for Spiritual Growth', shares profound insights on journaling as a tool for spiritual development. He explores the transformative power of reflection, emphasizing how it aids in recognizing one's true identity and divine value. Marc candidly discusses his personal journey through struggles and the way journaling has helped navigate burnout and emotional challenges. He highlights the importance of silence and discomfort in spiritual growth, making a compelling case for cultivating a meaningful inner life.

In a heartfelt discussion, Benjamin Perry, a Presbyterian minister and award-winning author, shares insights from his book, 'Learning to Cry: Why Our Tears Matter.' He reveals how crying can foster connection and transformation while exploring societal pressures that discourage vulnerability. Perry opens up about his journey toward embracing emotions, highlighting the pandemic's impact on emotional awareness. Through personal stories and research, he emphasizes the importance of tears in building community and understanding one's identity and faith.

Dive into the intricate world of anger—its complexities and dual nature—as the hosts discuss how it influences personal relationships and social justice. They explore how anger can be a powerful catalyst for action, especially in the face of injustice, while also emphasizing the importance of compassion in navigating this emotion. Cultural perspectives on anger reveal its varying interpretations across gender and race, highlighting the necessity of understanding its roots. Laughter and humor add a light touch, reminding us that embracing our feelings can lead to community engagement.

Rick Pidcock, a writer for Baptist News Global and host of the 'Highest Power' podcast, tackles the intricate role of anger in Christian leadership. He shares insights from his experiences with allegations of abuse in progressive ministries, emphasizing the need for humility and self-awareness. Pidcock explores how social dynamics shape anger's impact, advocating for reform in harmful hierarchies. Through personal anecdotes, he highlights the importance of amplifying marginalized voices and navigating emotional complexities within faith communities.

Anger can be a double-edged sword—both harmful and an opportunity for spiritual growth. Christy Penley encourages listeners to embrace their emotions, likening this journey to the ecological balance restored by reintroducing wolves to Yellowstone. The discussion distinguishes between just and unjust anger, promoting self-reflection and compassion. By processing anger, disciples can enhance their connection with God and navigate their emotional landscape with greater understanding. The conversation wraps up with an invitation for community engagement and fitness opportunities.

Dr. Paul Penley, a New Testament scholar and former Bible professor, sheds light on how ancient conversations reshape our understanding of Jesus' message. He reveals that Jesus often made counterpoints, which are essential for accurate interpretations. The discussion weaves through the misinterpretations shaped by contemporary slang, systemic issues like land rights for women, and the ethical responsibilities tied to wealth according to scripture. Penley's insights challenge established narratives, advocating for a more profound spiritual understanding and community engagement.

Catherine McNiel, a chaplain and author, alongside Jason Hague, an associate pastor and author, discuss the often isolating experience of a mid-faith crisis. They explore the complexities of spiritual journeys marked by doubt and disillusionment, emphasizing that questioning one's beliefs is a shared experience. The duo introduces a framework of four stages of faith, encouraging a deeper understanding of spiritual struggles. They also highlight the importance of communal support and the practice of lamenting as a way to engage authentically with faith.