A short note to let you all know I'm taking a break for the next two weeks and returning on August 29. I share some notes on the future of the podcast and end with some hopeful words from the Mother of Jesus. Resurrection Hope Amidst the Broken Politics of 2025 with Drew McIntyre | Episode 241 Should Christians Leave Trump's America? with Amy Mantravadi | Episode 245 The Church, The Trump Administration and the Dual State with Chris Gehrz | Episode 246 Donate to Church and Main Join the Church a...
Aug 15, 2025•7 min•Ep. 247
Is there value in historical analogies? Yes and no. Many have tried to make comparisons between Donald Trump and Adolph Hitler that end up not being helpful to understand the times we are living in. But then there are other times when looking at how past societies dealt with creeping authoritarianism can serve as a lesson for contemporary politics. In this conversation, Bethel University professor Chris Gehrz examines the unsettling nature of life under the concept of the dual state, particularl...
Aug 08, 2025•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 246
In this conversation, Amy Mantravadi discusses her article on 'the theology of staying,' where she reflects on the historical context of Christianity in Egypt and the challenges faced by Christians in the Middle East. The discussion also delves into Dietrich Bonhoeffer's experiences in Nazi Germany, exploring the complexities of staying or leaving in times of crisis and the church's role in society. We explore Bonhoeffer's commitment to training pastors, his views on military service, and the ro...
Aug 01, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 245
In this conversation, Josh Linman shares his faith journey from being a pastor's kid to founding Common Good Creative, a company focused on enhancing church communication. He discusses the importance of storytelling, community connection, and the role of technology and AI in modern church communication. Linman emphasizes the need for churches to adapt their messaging to resonate with people's desires for relationships, service, and purpose, and shares innovative strategies for welcoming visitors...
Jul 25, 2025•52 min•Ep. 244
In this episode of Church and Main, Ryan Self, a gay Christian from Austin, Texas, discusses LGBTQ inclusion in church communities. Ryan shares his journey from a conservative background to more affirming spaces, highlighting the pitfalls of churches that claim inclusivity yet fail to embody it. We discuss the balance between activism and faith, critiques of superficial inclusivity, and the need for authentic dialogue that honors diverse perspectives. Suggested Reading and Listening: With ‘allie...
Jul 19, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 243
The Emergent Church seemed to be the future of the church, until it wasn't. Andrew Crowson joins the podcast to discuss how the movement initially attracted young evangelicals by challenging traditional church norms, yet ultimately struggled with its identity and connection to foundational beliefs. Andrew shares insights from his experiences and his article "Are We Back?", pondering if today's context might rekindle the movement with lessons learned from its past. Are We Back? by Andrew Crowson ...
Jul 11, 2025•49 min•Ep. 242
Where can we find hope in the current political context? For Methodist pastor Drew McIntyre, that hope took place in an empty tomb when Jesus rose from the dead. Drew and I talk about the distinction between hope and optimism, and the cultural pessimism prevalent in society today. We also look at the significance of the bodily resurrection of Jesus as the foundation of hope, the role of the church in bridging divides, and the importance of practicing hope as a virtue in daily life. The Resurrect...
Jul 02, 2025•59 min•Ep. 241
I speak with Cathie Caimano, an Episcopal priest who discusses her journey and the concept of "free-range ministry" as a solution for small congregations. She advocates for flexible, part-time ministry models that empower lay leadership and foster community engagement. Suggested Reading and Listening: Free Range Priest website Related Episodes: Luther Seminary and the Future of Mainline Protestantism with Rob Myallis | Episode 239 Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List Fac...
Jun 27, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 240
In this episode, I take some time to explore the significant changes at Luther Seminary and their implications for mainline Protestantism. With the decision to sell its remaining property by 2027, a reflection of long-standing financial struggles, I discuss insights from Rob Myalis, an ELCA pastor and Luther alumnus, on sustaining a pipeline of pastors. We look at the shift towards experiential learning and its potential impact on future students, as well as the responsibilities of churches to c...
Jun 20, 2025•45 min•Ep. 239
Can evangelism be done in a way that’s both ethical and inclusive? Denise Dollinger and Christina Cernansky, hosts of the podcast "Emissaries of Renewal," join me to discuss the nuances of ethical evangelism. DeDe and CeCe examine the concepts of radical hospitality and inclusivity in today’s religious context, advocating for a reimagined evangelism that prioritizes love and community over guilt and fear. Listen in as these two Episcopal seminarians challenge conventional practices of evangelism...
Jun 19, 2025•1 hr 6 min•Ep. 238
In this episode, I talk to Jacob Smith, the rector of Calvary St. George's Episcopal Parish in Manhattan. We compare politics to Halloween and religion to a celebration called All Saints Day, discussing how faith, politics, and today's issues connect. Jacob believes faith should guide our political actions and promote kindness and inclusivity instead of division. We also discuss the problems the church faces about fairness and economic gaps, urging Christians to put their beliefs into action. At...
Jun 06, 2025•52 min•Ep. 237
In this episode, we look at the shifting dynamics between Canada and the United States amid rising nationalism, influenced by recent U.S. political rhetoric. I speak with David Harrison, an Anglican priest, about the impact on Canadian Christians navigating economic challenges and national identity. We discuss how churches are providing community support while upholding Christian values in the face of nationalism. Our conversation highlights the importance of dialogue between Canadian and Americ...
May 27, 2025•42 min•Ep. 232
In this episode, I chat with David Zahl, founder of Mockingbird Ministries and author of "The Big Relief: The Urgency of Grace in a Worn-Out World." We explore the essential role of grace in providing relief amid modern pressures and its importance in fostering genuine connections. Zoll emphasizes the need for vulnerability in relationships and critiques the church's tendency toward condemnation. He offers advice for pastors on embracing humility and recognizing their own need for grace, highlig...
May 23, 2025•55 min•Ep. 236
Summary In this conversation, Ben DeHart shares his unique faith journey, growing up in a mixed-religion household and finding his way into the church through an evangelical community. He discusses his transition to St. John's in Brooklyn, the dynamics of the Park Slope community, and the importance of preaching in revitalizing a church. Ben emphasizes the need for engaging sermons that resonate with the congregation's experiences and the role of youth ministry in attracting new members. He refl...
May 16, 2025•53 min•Ep. 235
In this episode, we examine the intersection of faith and the working class with Brian Dijkema, president of CARDUS. We discuss how traditional churches connect—or fail to connect—with blue-collar workers amid shifting socioeconomic dynamics. Brian shares insights on the historical involvement of churches in labor movements and the challenges they face today in attracting diverse congregations. Brian's Bio at Cardus Comment Magazine Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube...
May 02, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 234
I had a conversation with Andrew Root, who is a theologian and wrote the book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair." We explored how evangelism can serve as a way to comfort others, stressing the importance of real human connections during hard times instead of just trying to get people to attend church. Root criticizes how faith is treated like a product and compares evangelism to the care given in hospitals. We also talked about how people are really focused on being happy and how the church shoul...
Apr 25, 2025•47 min•Ep. 233
In this episode, I explore the complex topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within contemporary church teachings and societal dynamics. I engage in a conversation with George Yancey, a Professor of Sociology and Religion, who shares his insights on DEI’s role in fostering inclusive communities amid a polarized political climate. Together, we analyze the implications of DEI, its successes and failures, and the importance of empathetic dialogue that values diverse perspectives. Yancey d...
Apr 11, 2025•36 min•Ep. 231
We explore the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) with Susie Hayward, a former senior advisor with extensive experience in religion and inclusive societies. Hayward shares insights into USIP's mission, history, and the recent challenges it faces following actions by the Department of Governmental Efficiency. We discuss her personal journey, emphasizing the intersection of faith, activism, and conflict resolution, and highlight USIP's significant contributions in conflict zones like Iraq, Af...
Apr 04, 2025•52 min•Ep. 230
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. Thi...
Mar 28, 2025•54 min•Ep. 229
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 l...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 228
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 American...
Mar 14, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 227
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...
Mar 07, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 226
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 art...
Feb 28, 2025•50 min•Ep. 225
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 emotiona...
Feb 21, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 224
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 innovativ...
Feb 14, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 223
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 togeth...
Feb 06, 2025•52 min•Ep. 222
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, encoura...
Jan 31, 2025•59 min•Ep. 221
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. Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Tw...
Jan 28, 2025•19 min•Ep. 220
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 Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Webs...
Jan 24, 2025•37 min•Ep. 219
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 ...
Jan 16, 2025•56 min•Ep. 218
