Homebrewed Christianity

Ryan G. Duns, SJ, a Jesuit priest and theology professor, delves into the relevance of spiritual exercises in today's secular environment. He discusses the return to narratives like Narnia and their transformative power. The conversation touches on how Hollywood's zombie fascination reflects deeper moral questions. Duns humorously compares spiritual formation to karaoke, highlighting the beauty of individual expression within community. They also explore the dangers of idolatry and the importance of genuine relationships with the divine in everyday life.

Grace Ji-Sun Kim, a renowned theologian and Professor at Earlham School of Religion, discusses her transformative book, 'Invisible: Theology and the Experience of Asian American Women.' She explores the themes of invisibility, identity, and the impact of racism, challenging the 'model minority' myth. The conversation highlights the importance of storytelling for social justice, as well as the spiritual dimensions of community through Asian cultural concepts. With humor and insight, Kim also touches on the dynamics of writing, parenthood, and the collaborative spirit within the creative process.

John Cobb, a celebrated theologian and pioneer in ecology and economics, reflects on his journey as he turns 97. He discusses evolving theology, emphasizing personal experience and humility in understanding faith. Cobb advocates for demythologizing beliefs to address ecological and economic crises while fostering community over materialism. He highlights the church's role in promoting sustainability and collective action, drawing on historical figures like Gandhi. The metaphor of the 'great cloud of witnesses' underscores the importance of community support in pursuing a meaningful life.

Join Womanist theologian Delores Williams, author Diana Butler Bass, and Dr. Adam Clark, an Associate Professor of Theology, as they dive into the hot topic of cancel culture and accountability in America. They dissect statements from Whoopi Goldberg and Joe Rogan, exploring race, representation, and the complexities of cultural figures like those in the NFL. They also discuss the trend of deconstructing faith amid doubts while emphasizing the transformative power of love and compassion in Jesus' teachings.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Andrew Schwartz, a scholar and social entrepreneur focused on process theology, dives into the zestiness of process thought. He shares his favorite texts for teaching and why process panentheism outshines traditional views. Schwartz highlights the shift towards process theology and its growing appeal, especially regarding environmental issues. He also tackles the complexities of creation dynamics and divine agency, making a compelling case for a relational understanding of God in today's world.

Dr. Jacob Alan Cook, an author and postdoctoral fellow at Wake Forest University, dives deep into the intersection of worldview and faith in evangelical communities. He challenges traditional perspectives on the 'Christian worldview,' linking it to issues of race, colonialism, and moral formation. Cook discusses the need for a more inclusive approach and critiques historical figures like Abraham Kuyper. Their conversation highlights personal identity's evolution within faith, the complexities of deconstruction, and the journey towards healing and compassion in spiritual growth.

Bethany Sollereder, a new Lecturer in Science and Religion at the University of Edinburgh and author of a choose-your-own-adventure book on suffering, shares fascinating insights. She discusses the intricate relationship between suffering, theology, and science, emphasizing personalized understanding and compassionate theodicy. Conversations on ecological crises highlight the need for collective responsibility in facing climate change. Ties to Tolkien's narratives evoke hope amidst challenges, weaving personal stories with broader themes of faith and responsibility.

Diana Butler Bass, a renowned scholar of American Religion known for her progressive Christian insights, joins the conversation to explore the intersection of faith, politics, and culture. She discusses the legacy of Thich Nhat Hanh and the challenges of navigating awkward dinner conversations surrounding these topics. The dialogue covers the complexities of multi-faith identities and how they shape political engagement, as well as critiques of figures like Jerry Falwell Jr., all while maintaining a humorous and engaging tone.

Join Brian Zahnd, founder of a non-denominational church and author of 'When Everything's on Fire,' and his wife Peri for a rich discussion recorded in Edinburgh. They explore the transformative power of prayer and the challenges of fostering genuine discipleship in a polarized world. The couple emphasizes the significant role of online versus in-person authenticity and reflects on how grandparents can nurture faith in a unique way. Together, they dive into the importance of tradition in prayer, ensuring faith remains vibrant across generations.

Guests James Cone, a pivotal figure in Black theology, and Adam Clark, an associate professor committed to counter-narratives in theological education, dive into Cone's profound impact on racial justice and theology. They explore the spiritual dimensions of Black anger, emphasizing its legitimacy as a response to injustice. The conversation also critiques white evangelicalism's detachment from true Christian values, urging a redefinition centered on justice and solidarity. Personal stories highlight Cone's compassionate engagement, showcasing his legacy in shaping contemporary theological discourse.