Homebrewed Christianity

In this conversation, Barry Taylor, an expert on the intersections of religion, theology, and culture, delves into the shifting landscape of spirituality post-COVID. He highlights the struggle for authentic experiences outside traditional church walls and critiques static interpretations of selfhood in Christianity. The discussion also explores modern identity through psychedelics, Taylor Swift’s music as contemporary pilgrimage, and the creation of a new Master's program in Radical Theology. Get ready for a mix of humor, cultural insights, and deep reflections!

Kristian Smith, a pastor, stylist, and host of the Holy Smokes podcast, explores the intersection of spirituality and community through unique mediums like cigars. He discusses his journey of establishing inclusive faith communities, emphasizing the importance of voices from the Black Church in the deconstruction movement. Kristian also navigates the impact of digital platforms post-pandemic and reflects on generational tensions in faith and politics, advocating for leadership that aligns with social justice and contemporary values.

Kester Brewin, an insightful author exploring the intersections of artificial intelligence and religion, shares his latest ideas on how technology shapes spirituality. He discusses his book 'God-like', emphasizing the ethical challenges AI poses to faith communities. Brewin argues for a radical theological framework that addresses modern moral questions while preserving genuine human connections. He reflects on the importance of rebuilding community in a digital age, championing authentic relationships amidst technological advances.

In this engaging conversation, Tony Jones, a seasoned author and educator, opens up about his transformative memoir, *The God of Wild Places*. He explores vulnerability in writing, discussing the emotional toll of personal struggles and the search for spiritual authenticity. Laughter intertwines with poignant reflections on faith, loss, and the complexities of church identity. The duo shares heartfelt anecdotes from their Minnesota community, illustrating how shared experiences can nurture connection, even in life's wildest moments.

In this engaging discussion, Josh Patterson, a thinker from the (re)Thinking Faith podcast, dives into the challenges of faith in a post-certainty world. He shares personal journeys of deconstruction, reflecting on disillusionment with traditional church roles. The talk navigates the evolution of faith towards a relational and experiential understanding, emphasizing compassion and community. Josh also explores the fluidity of purpose after losing one's faith community, inviting listeners to redefine their relationship with God amidst these transitions.

James McGrath, an expert on theology and science fiction, dives deep into the fascinating interplay between faith and futuristic narratives. He ponders the intriguing question of whether a powerful alien could be equated to a god. McGrath also tackles the soul of an android and the idea of retelling biblical stories in distant realms. He explores how sci-fi facilitates a modern understanding of faith crises, identity, and ecological narratives, encouraging a richer dialogue between religion and speculative fiction.

In this engaging conversation, theologian Thomas Jay Oord discusses the landscape of faith deconstruction. He shares insights from surveying those in transition, highlighting personal journeys that reflect the complexities of belief and identity post-9/11. Oord explores the balance between fear and freedom in questioning traditions, tackling vital issues like church abuse and biblical inconsistencies. The dialogue emphasizes the potential for both harm and healing in reevaluating faith, inviting listeners to embrace uncertainty and seek a constructive path forward.

Diana Butler Bass, an acclaimed author and scholar, and John Dominic Crossan, a leading expert on the historical Jesus, join forces to explore the resurrection of Jesus through innovative and progressive lenses. They delve into the contrasting interpretations of resurrection, challenging traditional views and emphasizing its transformative implications. The discussion also covers the impact of these concepts on social justice movements and the significance of personal faith in relational contexts. Expect rich insights into early Christianity and vibrant intergenerational dialogue.

Ilia Delio, a distinguished theologian and scholar on science, and Brian McClaren, a key voice in progressive Christianity, team up with community participant John to discuss the upcoming Theology Beer Camp 2024 in Denver. They share exciting details about the diverse range of activities, guest speakers, and the unique blend of theology with craft beverages. The trio emphasizes creating an inclusive atmosphere, the joy of connecting with like-minded individuals, and even dives into youth slang trends, all wrapped in a humorous and engaging dialogue.

Robert N. McCauley, a leading figure in the cognitive science of religion and professor at Emory University, dives into the fascinating intersection of cognition and faith. He discusses the role of cognitive biases in shaping religious beliefs and practices, revealing how implicit cognition influences our understanding of the divine. The conversation also touches on the cultural dynamics of spirituality amidst increasing secularization and the parallels between religious experiences and contemporary fandom, particularly in superhero culture.