Church and Main

USAID, Revisited with Peter Mandeville | Episode 229

 I speak with Peter Mandeville, former head of the faith-based office at USAID, about the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and the agency's current challenges. Peter shares his insights on how faith influences international development and discusses recent shifts under the Department of Government Efficiency. We highlight the crucial role of faith-based organizations in humanitarian efforts, warn against the potential dismantling of USAID, and examine the implications for global aid dynamics. This conversation invites listeners to consider the future of U.S. foreign assistance and its impact on vulnerable populations worldwide.

Peter's Bio 

A Confessing Church for America’s Weimar Moment

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Staying at the Communion Table in Politically Divisive Times with Jonathan Hall | Episode 228

I talk with Jonathan Hall, the pastor of First Christian Church of North Hollywood, as he shares his experiences in leading a politically diverse congregation.  He discusses his journey from Alabama to various church communities, emphasizing the need for open communication on difficult subjects. Through personal anecdotes, he illustrates how empathy can thrive in challenging discussions about contentious issues. Additionally, Jonathan explores the intersection of faith and politics, encouraging listeners to use scripture as a guide for fostering understanding and unity.

Washington Post Article on First Christian-North Hollywood

Dear Son: Raising Faithful, Just, and Compassionate Men

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Second Thoughts from a Republican Refugee with Gretchen Purser | Episode 227

In this episode of Church and Main, I speak with Gretchen Purser, a former Republican operative, about her 20-year experience in national campaigns and her transformation into a "Republican refugee." We discuss her evangelical roots, the GOP's departure from foundational values under Trump, and the intersection of faith and politics. Gretchen calls for grace and understanding towards former Trump supporters and emphasizes the need for the Democratic Party to reconnect with working-class Americans.

The Mess is Mine Podcast with Gretchen Purser

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Finding Hope in Trump 2.0 with David Gray | Episode 226

In this episode, I talk to David Gray, a senior pastor and public policy expert, to discuss the intersection of faith and politics during the Trump administration. We explore how faith communities can provide hope amidst the uncertainties of shifting policies and social climates. David shares his perspective from his pastoral role in a diverse congregation, emphasizing the emotional distress faced by federal workers and marginalized groups. He advocates for churches to be safe havens for support and unity while also stressing the importance of maintaining a long-term outlook on justice. We examine the challenges of secularization and the church's role in fostering compassion and community engagement. This conversation reinforces the call for faith communities to actively contribute to a more hopeful and cohesive society.

David Gray's Bio

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USAID, Church World Service and Foreign Aid with Alex Morse | Episode 225

 Alex Morse, Deputy Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean at Church World Service joins the podcast to talk about the ramifications of potential changes to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) on religious organizations. We discuss the challenges faced by NGOs due to recent executive orders impacting foreign aid, and Alex highlights the critical role USAID plays in supporting vulnerable populations globally. 

 

Church World Service website

New York Times article on Supreme Court and USAID

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Why Church Decline Matters with Ben Crosby | Episode 224

Ben Crosby, an Episcopal priest returns to talk about the decline of mainline Protestantism. We discuss his recent article highlighting a 40% drop in attendance in the Anglican Church in Canada, which he argues reflects a broader crisis in engaging new believers and younger generations. Ben challenges the notion that declining numbers are a necessary adjustment in a pluralistic society, asserting that true church vitality encompasses discipleship alongside social justice. We explore the emotional toll on church leaders amid these declines and conclude with a hopeful vision for revitalization, emphasizing the need for mainline churches to balance faith and social action to remain relevant in today's landscape.

The current state of the Anglican Church of Canada

Telling the Truth on Church Decline with Ben Crosby | Episode 132

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Cheerleading for Congregations with Travis Smith McKee | Episode 223

In this episode, I chat about the amazing work of Reverend Travis Smith McKee, who serves as the Associate Regional Minister for Transformation Ministries in the Kansas Region of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Travis shares his journey from being a summer camp intern to becoming a champion for local congregations, along with some uplifting stories of churches tackling their challenges head-on. We also touch on the importance of pastoral care, the power of storytelling, and innovative ministry approaches to connect with younger folks. Travis encourages everyone to think about their own church communities and the future of collaborative ministry that builds both community and faith.

Kansas Disciples website

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The Body of Christ in a Polarized Culture with Teer Hardy | Episode 222

In this episode, we have a deep discussion with Methodist Pastor Teer Hardy. He points out that a church's real identity is found in being the Body of Christ, not in whether it leans liberal or conservative. Based on his article "Your Church Isn't Liberal or Conservative, It's the Body of Christ," he calls on congregations to prioritize worship, community, and grace instead of turning into arenas for political debate. Teer also emphasizes the importance of sacraments in bringing believers together and promotes inclusivity, suggesting that churches should approach political issues by focusing on faith-based conversations.

Links:

Your Church Isn't Liberal or Conservative, It's the Body of Christ

Teer's Website

Crackers and Grape Juice Podcast

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