Church and Main

In this episode, I chat with David Zahl, founder of Mockingbird Ministries and author of "The Big Relief: The Urgency of Grace in a Worn-Out World." We explore the essential role of grace in providing relief amid modern pressures and its importance in fostering genuine connections. Zoll emphasizes the need for vulnerability in relationships and critiques the church's tendency toward condemnation. He offers advice for pastors on embracing humility and recognizing their own need for grace, highlighting it as a vital lifeline for healing and hope in today's world. The Big Relief: The Urgency of Grace in a Worn-Out World The Main Thing: Relief at the Heart of Christianity Mockingcast Podcast Brothers Zahl Podcast Join the Church and Main Email List Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Summary In this conversation, Ben DeHart shares his unique faith journey, growing up in a mixed-religion household and finding his way into the church through an evangelical community. He discusses his transition to St. John's in Brooklyn, the dynamics of the Park Slope community, and the importance of preaching in revitalizing a church. Ben emphasizes the need for engaging sermons that resonate with the congregation's experiences and the role of youth ministry in attracting new members. He reflects on the challenges and joys of leading a church restart and the significance of personal authenticity in preaching. They discuss the challenges faced by church leaders in revitalizing congregations and emphasize the importance of delivering a message of hope to their communities. The dialogue highlights the need for engaging and meaningful preaching that resonates with congregants, as well as the potential of social media to foster connection and outreach.   A Parish Grows in Brooklyn Notes from DeHart (Ben's Substack) Our Triune Pod (A podcast featuring Ben)   Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube  

In this episode, we examine the intersection of faith and the working class with Brian Dijkema, president of CARDUS. We discuss how traditional churches connect—or fail to connect—with blue-collar workers amid shifting socioeconomic dynamics. Brian shares insights on the historical involvement of churches in labor movements and the challenges they face today in attracting diverse congregations. Brian's Bio at Cardus Comment Magazine Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube  

I had a conversation with Andrew Root, who is a theologian and wrote the book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair." We explored how evangelism can serve as a way to comfort others, stressing the importance of real human connections during hard times instead of just trying to get people to attend church. Root criticizes how faith is treated like a product and compares evangelism to the care given in hospitals. We also talked about how people are really focused on being happy and how the church should offer love and comfort to everyone, even those who are against us. Root wants people to try this approach, as it can create true hope and healing in today's society. Evangelism in An Age of Despair Book When Church Stops Working Podcast Church and the Crisis of Decline (Episode 142)   Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this episode,  we look at the shifting dynamics between Canada and the United States amid rising nationalism, influenced by recent U.S. political rhetoric. I speak with David Harrison, an Anglican priest, about the impact on Canadian Christians navigating economic challenges and national identity. We discuss how churches are providing community support while upholding Christian values in the face of nationalism. Our conversation highlights the importance of dialogue between Canadian and American Christians and the church's role in advocating for compassion and solidarity.  David's Website Canadian Evangelicals Brace for Trade War (from Christianity Today) Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this episode, I explore the complex topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within contemporary church teachings and societal dynamics. I engage in a conversation with George Yancey, a Professor of Sociology and Religion, who shares his insights on DEI’s role in fostering inclusive communities amid a polarized political climate. Together, we analyze the implications of DEI, its successes and failures, and the importance of empathetic dialogue that values diverse perspectives. Yancey discusses the church's potential in modeling constructive conversations based on Christian principles of grace and humility. George Yancey’s website Beyond Racial Division book Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

We explore the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) with Susie Hayward, a former senior advisor with extensive experience in religion and inclusive societies. Hayward shares insights into USIP's mission, history, and the recent challenges it faces following actions by the Department of Governmental Efficiency. We discuss her personal journey, emphasizing the intersection of faith, activism, and conflict resolution, and highlight USIP's significant contributions in conflict zones like Iraq, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Colombia. As we examine the implications of potential disbandment due to government intervention, Hayward underscores the importance of USIP's work and calls for renewed commitment to peacebuilding. The conversation encourages listeners to engage in advocacy for essential institutions that support nonviolent conflict resolution and promote U.S. soft power on the global stage. United States Institute of Peace (Wikipedia Page) Washington Post Article on the Firing of USIP employees Susie Hayward Bio Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

 I speak with Peter Mandeville, former head of the faith-based office at USAID, about the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and the agency's current challenges. Peter shares his insights on how faith influences international development and discusses recent shifts under the Department of Government Efficiency. We highlight the crucial role of faith-based organizations in humanitarian efforts, warn against the potential dismantling of USAID, and examine the implications for global aid dynamics. This conversation invites listeners to consider the future of U.S. foreign assistance and its impact on vulnerable populations worldwide. Peter's Bio  A Confessing Church for America’s Weimar Moment Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I talk with Jonathan Hall, the pastor of First Christian Church of North Hollywood, as he shares his experiences in leading a politically diverse congregation.  He discusses his journey from Alabama to various church communities, emphasizing the need for open communication on difficult subjects. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates how empathy can thrive in challenging discussions about contentious issues. Additionally, Jonathan explores the intersection of faith and politics, encouraging listeners to use scripture as a guide for fostering understanding and unity. Washington Post Article on First Christian-North Hollywood Dear Son: Raising Faithful, Just, and Compassionate Men Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this episode of Church and Main, I speak with Gretchen Purser, a former Republican operative, about her 20-year experience in national campaigns and her transformation into a "Republican refugee." We discuss her evangelical roots, the GOP's departure from foundational values under Trump, and the intersection of faith and politics. Gretchen calls for grace and understanding towards former Trump supporters and emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to reconnect with working-class Americans. The Mess is Mine Podcast with Gretchen Purser Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube