In this episode, I discuss early 2025 events with Andrew Donaldson, starting with the terrorist attack in New Orleans. We reflect on Jimmy Carter’s legacy, analyzing his faith-driven leadership amidst today's polarization and conservative evangelicalism. Our conversation transitions to the media's portrayal of crises, emphasizing sensationalism's dangers and local journalism's decline. We examine the political implications of Trump’s potential return, highlighting the challenges for authentic journalism in a divisive climate. Finally, we explore the relationship between faith and politics, considering the evolution of the church and its impact on political values, while drawing lessons from history that resonate with our current landscape. Show Notes: Andrew's Substack   Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

 I sit down with Jim Moore, an experienced Presbyterian pastor and current college chaplain at Westminster College, to discuss the profound impact of simply showing up in the lives of others. Jim shares insights from his journey in ministry, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities of campus life. We focus on his article, "Just Show Up," and explore how genuine connection and presence are crucial for fostering community. Jim recounts impactful moments from his time at Westminster, emphasizing the importance of being there for students in times of crisis and joy alike. We also consider the evolving dynamics of campus ministry and the necessity of engaging with diverse student populations. This conversation invites listeners to reflect on the transformative power of presence in both faith and everyday life, encouraging a deeper appreciation for authentic connections. Show Links: Just Show Up by Jim Mohr What I Learned from My Mother by Julia Kasdorf Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this solo episode (and last for 2024), I analyze the tragic murder of Brian Thompson, former CEO of UnitedHealthcare, through a moral lens. This discussion leads to a broader critique of societal responses to violence and the need for humility and understanding in healthcare discourse and other issues. I conclude with a call for moral education and empathy in our communities as we navigate complex issues. Brian Thompson: A Sinner of Christ's Redeeming (a substack article on which this episode is based)   book | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

 I speak with Luke Allen, lead organizer for Michigan Faith in Action, about the intersection of faith, community organizing, and cultural change after recent elections. Luke shares his journey from rural roots to urban organizing, highlighting shared struggles among diverse groups in the working class. We discuss the importance of building relationships, particularly with faith leaders, to foster trust and collaboration on issues like affordable housing and internet access. Luke also emphasizes the need for empathy in understanding political affiliations, advocating against oversimplified narratives. What Culture War? by Luke Allen   Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I speak with Professor Jesse Smith from Benedictine College about his article "Sociology in the Age of Trump," focusing on the sociological perspectives of Trump voters. We discuss the political polarization in America, the impact of religion, and the need for empathetic research that respects voters' lived experiences. Jesse critiques the politicization of sociological inquiry since the Trump era, advocating for a qualitative approach that fosters understanding over bias. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity and integrity in academic research, offering insights for sociologists navigating politically charged environments. Jesse Smith's website   Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I speak with Reverend Beth Chrisman about the Purple Church Initiative, which aims to bridge partisan divides within congregations by fostering inclusivity and dialogue. We discuss the initiative's origins and its practical tools, like "Conversation Across the Aisles," designed to promote healthy discussions around differences. Rev. Chrisman emphasizes the need for open communication to build understanding among church members and shares proactive steps churches are taking to engage their communities. Related Links: Purple Church Initiative webpage Related Episodes: Beyond the Purple Church with Jack Haberer | Episode 194 Links: Donate:  Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Substack: https://churchandmain.substack.com/ Website: https://churchandmain.org/

I engage with Tessa Pinkstaff, program manager at Luther Seminary and co-author of "Leading Faithful Innovation, Following God into a Hopeful Future." We explore the spiritual practice of "dwelling in the Word," emphasizing its role in revitalizing congregations through a contemplative approach to Scripture. Tessa shares her journey into faith, detailing how community and lived experiences of spirituality shape deeper connections with God. We discuss how this practice, akin to Lectio Divina, invites communal listening and reflection, fostering humility among church leaders and enhancing collective engagement. Suggested Reading and Listening: Tessa Pinkstaff’s website   Related Episodes: Congregational Renewal Through Listening with Liz Eide | Episode 210   Links: Donate:  Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Substack: https://churchandmain.substack.com/ Website: https://churchandmain.org/

In this episode, Pastor Liz Eide discusses the renewal journey of the Lutheran Church of Peace in Maplewood, Minnesota, emphasizing the transformative power of listening. Since 2018, she has led efforts to deepen relationships through structured listening sessions, intertwining biblical narratives with personal stories to foster community bonds. Pastor Eide shares how this approach clarified the church's vision and core values like "Boundless Joy" and "Radical Hospitality," while promoting a culture of innovation through grace and evaluation. She reflects on the challenges of growth and maintaining community identity, providing valuable insights for leaders looking to rejuvenate congregations through relational engagement. Suggested Reading and Listening: Lutheran Church of Peace website   Related Episodes: (Prayer) Walking In Memphis with Geoff Mitchell | Episode 191 Theological Humility in the Local Church With David Emery | Episode 175 How Your Church Can Be A Good Neighbor with Nicholas Tangen | Episode 155 Links: Donate:  Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Substack: https://churchandmain.substack.com/ Website: https://churchandmain.org/  

In this episode, Dennis shares a sermon he gave on the Sunday before the election, which might serve as thoughts on how we are to be Christians after the election.  For Dennis, the most important thing is that we love one another regardless of how one voted.  Give a listen.   Suggested Reading and Listening: Whatever Happens, Love Thy Neighbor by Larissa Phillips Love God. Love Neighbors. Sermon Text   Related Episodes: John Wesley's Voting Advice with Drew McIntyre | Episode 208 Does Election Day Communion Still Matter? with Andrew Camp | Episode 207 What Will You Preach the Sunday After the Election? with Joshua Gritter | Episode 202 Election Year Christianity with Doug Skinner | Episode 201 Beyond the Purple Church with Jack Haberer | Episode 194 The Cross and the Ballot with Joshua Gritter | Episode 182   Links: Donate:  Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Substack: https://churchandmain.substack.com/ Website: https://churchandmain.org/

On this second episode focusing on the upcoming Presidential election, we look at how Christians act during an election.  I talk with  Drew McIntyre about his recent article called “Sanctimony or Sanctification? John Wesley’s voting advice for today.”  Drew is the Pastor at Grace United Methodist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina and a host of the God and Whiskey Podcast. Suggested Reading and Listening: Sanctimony or Sanctification article God and Whiskey Podcast   Related Episodes: The Aftermath of the United Methodist General Conference with Drew McIntyre | Episode 187 Does Election Day Communion Still Matter? with Andrew Camp | Episode 207 Election Year Christianity with Doug Skinner | Episode 201 Beyond the Purple Church with Jack Haberer | Episode 194 The Cross and the Ballot with Joshua Gritter | Episode 182 Links: Donate:  Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Substack: https://churchandmain.substack.com/ Website: https://churchandmain.org/