Gravity Commons Podcast

Tom Oord, a prominent theologian and author, discusses the transformative power of open and relational theology in the face of tragedy and abuse. He explores how understanding God's love can reshape our views on suffering and evil. Through personal anecdotes, he delves into the complexities of divine influence and human freedom. Oord emphasizes the significance of compassionate support in trauma healing and the nuanced relationship between miracles and human agency. His insights challenge conventional beliefs while promoting a deeper understanding of faith and love.

We talk with author and mediator Cheryl Miller about how restorative justice practices can transform the lives of survivors of sexual violence. In her book Enough Silence: Creating Sacred Space for Survivors of Sexual Assault Through Restorative Justice, Cheryl outlines of these practices and offers a road map for implementing victim-offender dialogue, surrogate dialogue, circles, and more. Her book is a call to pastors, clergy, nonprofit professionals, and other leaders to dismantle patriarchal systems that perpetuate rape culture. By embracing restorative justice practices, faith communities can imitate Christ in ministering to survivors and those who love them.Cheryl Miller has worked in mediation, restorative justice, and community development for over two decades. An experienced nonprofit leader, she is also the founder of Quantum Circles Consulting and Training, an organization that equips community groups to address homelessness, economic development, restoration, and reconciliation. You can connect with Cheryl and her work on her website.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

Dr. Andrew Bauman, founder of the Christian Counseling Center for Sexual Health & Trauma and former pastor, dives deep into the urgent issues of sexism and abuse in the church. He discusses insights from his book, emphasizing the need for transparency and amplifying women's voices. Listeners explore the importance of shared power in faith communities and the challenges men face in dismantling systemic sexism. Bauman advocates for genuine discipleship that prioritizes integrity and selflessness, urging a collective effort to confront ingrained biases and create safer church environments.

Malcolm Foley, a pastor and historian serving as a special adviser at Baylor University, discusses a provocative view of racism as rooted in greed rather than hate. He explores how economic motivations shaped racial systems, especially during periods like chattel slavery. Foley emphasizes the need for financial morality in faith and advocates for economic justice, urging listeners to act with love and obligation towards the marginalized. His insights challenge the notion of racial capitalism and call for a redefined spiritual engagement with societal issues.

We talked with podcaster and author Jonathan Foster about indigo: the color of grief, his book of poems that came from processing the painful loss of his daughter.Jonathan is the partner of one and father of three, founder of lovehaiti.org, podcaster, and award-winning author with some degrees in open and relational theology who loves to hike. You can connect with Jonathan and his work at jonathanfosteronline.com.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

In this discussion, Marc Alan Schelske, a pastor and author passionate about grace and growth, delves into the essence of co-suffering love as exemplified by Jesus. He shares insights from his new book, encouraging listeners to embrace other-centeredness during Lent. Topics include the transformative power of devotional literature, the gardening metaphor for personal growth, and the significance of community in spiritual journeys. Marc invites introspection and rewilding in one's spirituality, all while maintaining a light-hearted tone.

Award-winning essayist Liz Charlotte Grant, author of "Knock at the Sky," discusses her journey of faith after losing trust in biblical inerrancy. She delves into the complexities of interpreting Genesis, advocating for a fresh, imaginative approach to scripture. Liz emphasizes the importance of understanding cultural contexts and the emotional depth within biblical narratives. She also addresses moral dilemmas in biblical stories, particularly Abraham's, and highlights the necessity of spiritual autonomy and community in navigating faith.

The hosts dive deep into their personal journeys leaving white evangelicalism, addressing the shifting political landscape and moral reasoning that shaped their experiences. They tackle post-COVID injustices and advocate for a justice-oriented faith. The emotional challenges of disconnecting from a familiar community are explored, along with the complexities of maintaining faith amid changing beliefs. Lighthearted moments include gardening anecdotes and humorous exchanges, balancing serious topics with warmth and camaraderie.

The hosts share their personal journeys leaving white evangelicalism, tackling the evolving definition of what it means to be evangelical today. They discuss how political ideologies impact faith and the core beliefs within the community. The podcast examines the relationship between evangelical theology and sensitive issues like abortion, calling for a reevaluation of longstanding narratives. The identity crises faced by those distancing from tradition amid societal pressures are explored, encouraging listeners to engage in this vital conversation.

Matt and Ben share personal stories about their departure from white evangelical spaces, reflecting on its complexities. They dive into the essence of evangelicalism and examine how political ideologies shape beliefs. The speakers also discuss the evolving definitions of evangelicals, highlighting tensions between faith and politics. Humor mingles with serious inquiry as they question the desirability of the evangelical label, inviting listeners to reconsider what it means to identify within this dynamic community.