Homebrewed Christianity

Diana Butler Bass, an insightful author and church historian, discusses her new book, A Beautiful Year, exploring the Christian calendar’s impact on spirituality and how to find meaning in time. She emphasizes anti-imperial, feminist, and ecological lenses for understanding Scripture. Joining her are Andy and Kara Root, who share experiences from their family pilgrimage and the challenges of parenting. They introduce the importance of letting go of control and embracing receptivity, echoing themes of connection and divine involvement in daily life.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew M. Davis, a prominent process philosopher and theologian, sheds light on Alfred North Whitehead's thoughts captured in "Religion in the Making." Davis reveals why these lectures serve as an accessible entry to process thought. The conversation delves into Whitehead's life transitions, the influence of personal tragedy on his philosophy, and critiques of reductionist views on religion. They explore the vital role of value in existence and how evolution enhances our understanding of religious experiences, highlighting the intertwined nature of meaning and perception.

Discover why Alfred North Whitehead's thoughts are a beacon for those moving away from traditional religion. His life story is fascinating, from a mathematician to a philosopher, shaped by personal loss and beauty. Explore his critique of a lifeless universe, advocating instead for a reality pulsating with meaning. Whitehead’s four dimensions of religion emphasize experience over doctrine, framing spirituality as an adventurous journey. This captivating discussion invites seekers, scientists, and justice advocates to embrace an intellectually honest spirituality.

Join Sarah Heath, a pastor and camp organizer, Bryn (Camp Gandalf), a logistics wizard, Josh Patterson, a theatrical contributor, and Will (Wilbo Baggins), a playful panelist, as they reminisce about the joyous chaos of Beer Camp. They share hilarious highlights, from a surprise Magic: The Gathering game to a theological wrestling match and karaoke in bunny suits. The focus? Embracing authenticity, community, and memorable connections across generations, all while letting loose in a space where everyone belongs.

In this enlightening conversation, Natalie Wigg-Stevenson, an Associate Professor and ordained Baptist minister, shares her journey of recovery from a brain injury endured during a closet clean-up. She candidly discusses the cognitive losses she faced and their impact on her identity, parenting, and spirituality. Natalie explores the role of psychedelics in her healing, detailing personal experiences with ketamine therapy and the insights it provided. The dialogue beautifully intertwines vulnerability, theological exploration, and the serendipity of rediscovering joy in everyday moments.

Casey Sigmon, an Assistant Professor in Preaching and Worship, dives into the transformative power of worship beyond just Sunday services. She challenges listeners to view worship as holistic life patterns rather than industry-driven aesthetics. Exploring themes of justice and communal accountability, Casey critiques white evangelical practices that favor preference over prophetic engagement. She advocates for children’s leadership in justice and reminds us that divine action may look more like collaborative choreography than cosmic intervention.

Heath W. Carter, a historian of American Christianity and author of *Union Made*, explores the often-overlooked working-class roots of social Christianity. He reveals how labor movements shaped the social gospel far from elite seminaries, highlighting grassroots efforts that pressed churches to advocate for labor rights. Carter discusses the evolution of church attitudes from anti-labor to embracing living wages, emphasizing the importance of collective action in transforming faith communities. He reflects on the challenges facing democracy and economic justice today, urging a return to solidarity.

In this enlightening conversation, Drew G. I. Hart, a public theologian and professor known for his work on Black liberation theology, dives deep into the relationship between the Black church and justice. He discusses how enslaved people adapted Christianity for liberation, the necessity of confrontational theology in achieving real justice, and critiques white progressivism in maintaining oppressive structures. Hart emphasizes that reparations are about healing, not mere debt, and addresses the moral complexities of violence and peacemaking in response to systemic oppression.

Rev. Dr. Malcolm Foley is a scholar, reverend, and author of The Anti-Greed Gospel. He shares insights on how greed fuels racism and the struggle between serving God and Mammon. Foley discusses the moral imperatives demonstrated by figures like MLK, emphasizing nonviolence and moral clarity. He critiques exploitative capitalism and urges Christians to engage in local political-economic communities instead of simply relying on electoral politics. This thought-provoking conversation challenges listeners to embody justice and love in their faith.

In this engaging conversation, Cynthia Moe-Lobeda, a Lutheran theologian and ethicist, explores the disconnect between faith and economics, emphasizing how our consumer choices impact global injustice. She shares her journey from despair to action, fueled by a mystical encounter, and offers a vision of a moral economy defined by ecological, equitable, and democratic principles. With her framework of 'ten fingers on the hands of healing change,' Cynthia empowers listeners to take actionable steps, reminding us that the current economy is human-made and can be transformed.