Church and Main

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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Clergy Leadership and the Propensity to Mess* Things Up with Scott Benhase | Episode 221

In this episode, I have a meaningful discussion with Scott Benhase, the former Episcopal Bishop of Georgia, where we delve into his perspectives on pastoral leadership as outlined in his book, Done and Left Undone: Grace in the Meantime of Ministry. We examine how the role of clergy is changing in response to modern challenges, highlighting the importance of grace, community, and our shared human imperfections. Scott shares insights from his own experiences in various ministry contexts, encouraging a transition from a 'fix-it' approach to one that emphasizes walking alongside individuals in their spiritual journeys. We touch on the pressures that pastors face, the significance of foundational spiritual practices, and the necessity of recognizing our shortcomings in a society that often expects perfection. Additionally, Scott offers guidance for new pastors, stressing the value of spiritual discipline and genuine relationships with their congregations. This conversation underscores the essential role of grace in ministry and the unique joys and challenges that come with leading a faith community.

 

* British author Francis Spufford describes sin as the human propensity to fuck things up.

 

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Why You Should Pray for President Trump (Even If You Don't Like Him) | Episode 220

In this episode, I dive into the tricky connection between faith and politics, especially with Donald Trump making a comeback as president. I talk about the often awkward but necessary act of praying for leaders we might not agree with, stressing that it can be a significant spiritual duty. Drawing from my essay, “Why We Should Pray for President Trump, Even If We Don't Like Him,” I point out how important it is to approach our prayers with humility and grace. 

 

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Polarization and the Campaign for Kindness with Cathy Bien | Episode 219

In this episode of Church and Main, I explore the intersection of faith, politics, and culture after President Trump's inauguration, focusing on the critical role the church can play in bridging societal divides. I speak with Cathy Bien, leader of the Campaign for Kindness at the Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, Kansas, about this grassroots initiative to foster understanding during a time of polarization.

Links:

Campaign for Kindness webpage

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Talking About Success and Failure in the Church with Martha Tartarnic | Episode 218

In this episode, I speak with Martha Tatarnik, a priest at St. George's Anglican Church and co-host of the Future Christian podcast. We explore the challenges of discussing success and failure in church leadership, drawing from Martha's 2023 article, "It's Hard to Talk About Success in the Church." She shares her experiences in a downtown community grappling with societal issues, emphasizing the importance of humility and community narratives over individual accomplishments. We also discuss the need for meaningful connections in faith communities and how grace underpins both successes and setbacks in ministry.

Links:

Martha Tartarnic's Website

Political Roundtable Episode of Future Christian

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