Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership with Ruth Haley Barton

Tina Harris, an ordained United Methodist pastor with a Master of Divinity, shares her insights on the communal practice of tarrying. She emphasizes the power of vulnerability and lament during difficult times, especially in spiritual contexts. The conversation explores how confronting disappointment and engaging with collective suffering can lead to healing. Tina encourages listeners to embrace the marginalized and reflect on their journeys through faith, ultimately inviting deeper connections with God amidst life's challenges.

Joy Bailey, a photographer and writer, and David Bailey, a public theologian and catalyst, engage in a heartfelt discussion about their journey through chronic health challenges. They explore the depths of suffering and the crucial role of community support in healing. The couple shares how their faith has evolved amid adversity, emphasizing the practice of 'tarrying' as a means to connect with God and others. Their reflections highlight the intersection of spirituality and health, inviting listeners to engage compassionately with their own stories and those of marginalized communities.

In this engaging conversation, Delwin Eiland, an artist, pastor, and worship leader, shares his insights on the powerful spiritual practice of tarrying. He emphasizes the importance of silence and restraint during worship, highlighting how these moments foster deeper connections with God. Delwin discusses the balance of self-expression and the need for quiet, especially within communal settings, and introduces the Haven initiative aimed at enriching spiritual connections among leaders. The discussion beautifully concludes with a moment of reflection inspired by his song 'Wait for You.'

In this conversation, Rasool Berry, a teaching pastor and media creator, shares his transformative journey from a non-church background to embracing faith. He emphasizes the practice of 'tarrying' — waiting on God — and its importance in fostering justice and spiritual connection. Rasool reflects on the resilience of faith in the Black tradition, exploring communal experiences and the need for contemplative action in a chaotic world. This insightful dialogue inspires listeners to seek divine guidance through stillness and reflection.

Reverend Dr. Phaedra Blocker, a dedicated preacher and educator, joins to discuss the significance of 'tarrying' in the Black church, emphasizing active waiting for God's presence even amidst challenges. They explore Hagar's biblical narrative as a lens for understanding agency and divine justice. The conversation highlights socioeconomic mobility issues affecting Black communities and the importance of belonging in faith settings. Practical insights on self-examination and readiness to act on divine guidance provide listeners with actionable takeaways during the Lenten season.

Reverend Dr. Prince Rivers, the Senior Pastor of Union Baptist Church in Durham, NC, shares his insights on faith and leadership, drawing from his rich background in psychology. He reflects on his experiences of navigating dual identities, emphasizing how communal worship fosters healing for marginalized communities. The conversation delves into the practice of tarrying, highlighting its role in enhancing spiritual presence and connection. Prince also discusses the collaboration between pastors and musicians in creating transformative worship experiences, rooted in authentic relationships.

Dr. Selina Stone, a theology and ethics lecturer at the University of Edinburgh and author of "Tarry Awhile," shares her insights on the spiritual practice of 'tarrying' rooted in Black Pentecostal traditions. She discusses the transformative power of waiting on the Holy Spirit during challenging times and highlights the crucial role of women in spiritual leadership. Their conversation emphasizes the importance of genuine community support and the intersection of spirituality and social justice, encouraging listeners to embrace the beauty in vulnerability and connection.

Enuma Okoro, a Nigerian-American author and cultural critic known for her book 'Silence and Other Surprising Invitations of Advent,' joins the conversation. She shares her insights on navigating faith, the art of vulnerability, and the profound lessons from waiting on God's timing. The discussion highlights recognizing the sacred in everyday life, the transformative power of silence, and embracing divine invitations. Enuma's reflections invite listeners to deepen their spiritual journeys and appreciate the beauty in unexpected moments.

This week, David Hughes, resident theologian at the Transforming Center, joins the team for an insightful discussion. They explore the dynamics of spiritual companionship through the narratives of Elizabeth and Zechariah, highlighting how community fosters growth in times of wilderness. Vulnerability and acceptance emerge as vital components for transformative experiences. The conversation emphasizes the power of silence and the profound connections that support waiting and spiritual journeys, encouraging listeners to embrace hope amid life’s challenges.

Dalene Strieff, a longtime member of the Transforming Center community, brings her rich experience in spiritual practices to the conversation. They delve into the themes of waiting and barrenness, reflecting on personal losses and the importance of silence in cultivating a deeper connection with God. The discussion highlights Zachariah and Elizabeth's story as an inspiring example of faithfulness amid challenges. Strieff shares insights on how communal practices can help navigate seasons of grief, emphasizing the transformative power of spiritual connection during tough times.