Homebrewed Christianity

In this reflective conversation, Anne Rice, a legendary author famous for her 'The Vampire Chronicles,' shares her journey of leaving Christianity. She discusses disillusionment with organized religion and the personal toll of religious intolerance. Rice emphasizes Jesus as a radical figure, advocating for personal spiritual interpretations. She also explores modern spirituality, highlighting the importance of community and connection beyond institutional boundaries. Her poignant insights cut through the complexity of faith and creativity, revealing her unique perspective on spirituality.

Adam Clark, Associate Professor of Theology at Xavier University and co-chair of the Black Theology Group, engages in provocative discussions. He tackles the intersection of race and faith, emphasizing the Black Lives Matter movement's challenges and the need for proactive responses from communities of faith. Clark critically examines abortion within religious contexts, advocating for empathy and personal dignity. He explores the complexities of life ethics and urges a departure from polarized views, calling for a consistent ethic that encompasses all stages of life.

Mark Scandrette, a notable voice in the emerging church movement, shares his insights on faith, spirituality, and community. They discuss the impact of digital deconstruction on modern Christianity and the importance of authentic connections. Mark reflects on his transformative experiences with social justice and the Beatitudes' relevance today. He also introduces innovative approaches to discipleship, likening it to karaoke and pilgrimage, while emphasizing the need for compassion in post-pandemic identity exploration.

Chase Tibbs, a thoughtful voice from the Faith and Capital podcast, delves into the rich intersection of Christian socialism and socio-political ideologies. He presents compelling reasons to embrace Christian socialism, highlighting how theologians like Barth and Tillich navigated these waters. The conversation tackles revolutionary violence versus Christian doctrine and offers a fresh perspective on divine power as a catalyst for social change. Chase also emphasizes the critical role of community in addressing systemic injustices and suggests actionable steps for grassroots activism.

Deacon Tony Jones, a thoughtful figure in emerging church conversations, engages with community questions ranging from outdoor escapades to theological debates. He shares hilarious fishing and hunting stories, weaving in memories of family traditions. The discussion also tackles the transformation of local congregations in the digital age, contrasting theological perspectives of God, and the struggles of prayer. With his unique blend of humor and insight, Tony encourages genuine connections within faith communities.

Join Aaron Simmons, a captivating commentator on Kierkegaard's philosophy, as he dives into the intricacies of the philosopher's life and thought. He shares the challenges of personal identity, especially at midlife, while weaving in poignant tales from Kierkegaard’s own struggles, including his personal crises and the impact on his work. Simmons encourages listeners to embrace existentialism in their daily lives and confront the complexities of their own faith journeys, all within an engaging reading group format.

Rolf Jacobson, a Professor of Old Testament at Luther Seminary, shares his humorous and insightful take on seminary life. He reveals the 'five most offensive things' learned in theological studies, challenging conventional narratives. The podcast dives deep into the significance of the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the liberating power of the Sabbath. Jacobson also reflects on the complexities of biblical texts, engaging listeners with anecdotes that blend humor with serious theological themes.

In this lively discussion, Matthew Novenson, a Senior Lecturer in New Testament at the University of Edinburgh, dives into the rich complexities of early Christian thought. He examines the diverse interpretations of Jesus as the 'Messiah' and the significance of extra-canonical texts in understanding biblical narratives. With insights into Pauline studies and Jewish messianism, the conversation teases apart how cultural contexts shape theological meanings. Plus, there's a dash of humor with whiskey preferences to lighten the scholarly feast!

Aaron Simmons returns to shed light on the enduring relevance of Kierkegaard for the church. He argues that faith should focus on lived commitment instead of mere belief. Simmons critiques Christian nationalism, emphasizing its contradiction to authentic Christian values. He advocates for a faith rooted in humility and inclusivity, urging believers to prioritize relationships over success. By championing a more poetic understanding of faith, he encourages embracing uncertainty as a pathway to deeper communal connections and personal growth.

Dustin Kensrue, renowned rock star and member of the #ProcessParty, shares insights on Thrice's new album, 'horizons/east.' He reflects on how his evolving views on faith and politics shape his music. The conversation highlights the impact of creating during the pandemic, exploring personal growth and the emotional power of live performances. Dustin discusses the transformative nature of music and the challenges of navigating societal structures while embracing grace and nostalgia. Tune in for an intriguing exploration of life, art, and belief.