In this episode, I discuss early 2025 events with Andrew Donaldson, starting with the terrorist attack in New Orleans. We reflect on Jimmy Carter’s legacy, analyzing his faith-driven leadership amidst today's polarization and conservative evangelicalism. Our conversation transitions to the media's portrayal of crises, emphasizing sensationalism's dangers and local journalism's decline. We examine the political implications of Trump’s potential return, highlighting the challenges for authentic jo...
Jan 09, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 217
I sit down with Jim Moore, an experienced Presbyterian pastor and current college chaplain at Westminster College, to discuss the profound impact of simply showing up in the lives of others. Jim shares insights from his journey in ministry, highlighting the unique challenges and opportunities of campus life. We focus on his article, "Just Show Up," and explore how genuine connection and presence are crucial for fostering community. Jim recounts impactful moments from his time at Westminster, emp...
Jan 01, 2025•54 min•Ep. 216
In this solo episode (and last for 2024), I analyze the tragic murder of Brian Thompson, former CEO of UnitedHealthcare, through a moral lens. This discussion leads to a broader critique of societal responses to violence and the need for humility and understanding in healthcare discourse and other issues. I conclude with a call for moral education and empathy in our communities as we navigate complex issues. Brian Thompson: A Sinner of Christ's Redeeming (a substack article on which this episode...
Dec 23, 2024•38 min•Ep. 215
I speak with Luke Allen, lead organizer for Michigan Faith in Action, about the intersection of faith, community organizing, and cultural change after recent elections. Luke shares his journey from rural roots to urban organizing, highlighting shared struggles among diverse groups in the working class. We discuss the importance of building relationships, particularly with faith leaders, to foster trust and collaboration on issues like affordable housing and internet access. Luke also emphasizes ...
Dec 20, 2024•51 min•Ep. 214
I speak with Professor Jesse Smith from Benedictine College about his article "Sociology in the Age of Trump," focusing on the sociological perspectives of Trump voters. We discuss the political polarization in America, the impact of religion, and the need for empathetic research that respects voters' lived experiences. Jesse critiques the politicization of sociological inquiry since the Trump era, advocating for a qualitative approach that fosters understanding over bias. He emphasizes the impo...
Dec 12, 2024•47 min•Ep. 213
I speak with Reverend Beth Chrisman about the Purple Church Initiative, which aims to bridge partisan divides within congregations by fostering inclusivity and dialogue. We discuss the initiative's origins and its practical tools, like "Conversation Across the Aisles," designed to promote healthy discussions around differences. Rev. Chrisman emphasizes the need for open communication to build understanding among church members and shares proactive steps churches are taking to engage their commun...
Dec 04, 2024•36 min•Ep. 212
I engage with Tessa Pinkstaff, program manager at Luther Seminary and co-author of " Leading Faithful Innovation, Following God into a Hopeful Future ." We explore the spiritual practice of "dwelling in the Word," emphasizing its role in revitalizing congregations through a contemplative approach to Scripture. Tessa shares her journey into faith, detailing how community and lived experiences of spirituality shape deeper connections with God. We discuss how this practice, akin to Lectio Divina, i...
Nov 22, 2024•50 min•Ep. 211
In this episode, Pastor Liz Eide discusses the renewal journey of the Lutheran Church of Peace in Maplewood, Minnesota, emphasizing the transformative power of listening. Since 2018, she has led efforts to deepen relationships through structured listening sessions, intertwining biblical narratives with personal stories to foster community bonds. Pastor Eide shares how this approach clarified the church's vision and core values like "Boundless Joy" and "Radical Hospitality," while promoting a cul...
Nov 14, 2024•34 min•Ep. 210
In this episode, Dennis shares a sermon he gave on the Sunday before the election, which might serve as thoughts on how we are to be Christians after the election. For Dennis, the most important thing is that we love one another regardless of how one voted. Give a listen. Suggested Reading and Listening: Whatever Happens, Love Thy Neighbor by Larissa Phillips Love God. Love Neighbors. Sermon Text Related Episodes: John Wesley's Voting Advice with Drew McIntyre | Episode 208 Does Election Day Com...
Nov 09, 2024•30 min•Ep. 209
On this second episode focusing on the upcoming Presidential election, we look at how Christians act during an election. I talk with Drew McIntyre about his recent article called “Sanctimony or Sanctification? John Wesley’s voting advice for today.” Drew is the Pastor at Grace United Methodist Church in Greensboro, North Carolina and a host of the God and Whiskey Podcast. Suggested Reading and Listening: Sanctimony or Sanctification article God and Whiskey Podcast Related Episodes: The Aftermath...
Nov 04, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 208
Election Day Communion was an effort started by two Mennonite pastors and an Episcopal layperson in 2012. to try to bring people together on Election Day. The hope was after people voted, they would come and gather at the communion table. Subsequent events took place in 2016 and 2020. But the Facebook Page for Election Day Communion was not updated for 2024. After January 6 and the rise of Christian Nationalism, is there still a place for this event? Andrew Camp, says yes and joins me to say why...
Oct 31, 2024•51 min•Ep. 207
Shobi’s Table is a foodtruck that is also a ministry. It is a pay-as-you-can food truck that creates and serves from-scratch, delicious, nutritious meals rescued food from Twin Cities Food Justice to make meals such as burritos, wraps, sandwiches, salads, hot dishes like baked pastas, fried rice, and more. I’m talking with Deacon Kari Olsen, the Mission Developer and Head Chef of Shobi’s Table. We talk about this unique ministry, Kari’s call to ministry, and the connection between the communion ...
Oct 24, 2024•41 min•Ep. 206
In this episode, Dennis chats with Julian DeShazier about how the great man theory has poisoned the church and a better way for pastors and congregations to do ministry that is more in line with what our faith teaches. Julian is the Senior Minister at University Christian Church in Chicago, writes for the Christian Century and is an Emmy-winning hip hop artist who performs under the name J Kwest. Suggested Reading and Listening: The great man theory is poison for the church by Julian DeShazier J...
Oct 16, 2024•51 min•Ep. 205
In this episode, I speak with Miranda Zapor-Cruz, author of "Faithful Politics," about the role of Christians in the political landscape as the 2024 presidential election approaches. We discuss the challenges of engaging with politics while maintaining spiritual integrity. Miranda Zapor Cruz is a professor of historical theology at Indiana Wesleyan University. She holds a PhD in religion, politics, and society from Baylor University's J. M. Dawson Institute of Church-State Studies and an MDiv fr...
Oct 09, 2024•52 min•Ep. 204
In this episode, I engage with Reverend Dr. Sam Wells, vicar of St. Martin-in-the-Fields in London, on the intricate meanings of 'progressive' and 'inclusive' in Christianity. Wells challenges the simplistic view of progress as a linear moral improvement, arguing it can perpetuate a patronizing mindset. He links these discussions to the theology of atonement, emphasizing the balance between grace and justice, particularly in contexts like LGBTQ inclusion. Highlighting the complexities of buildin...
Oct 02, 2024•46 min•Ep. 203
In this Church and Main Shorts, we look at a clip from a May interview with Joshua Gritter, a Presbyterian Pastor in North Carolina. We talk about what he and his wife will preach on at the church they serve on the Sunday after the election (hint: it won't be about the election). Suggested Reading and Listening: The Full Episode with Joshua Gritter Links: Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: ...
Sep 25, 2024•17 min•Ep. 202
In this episode of Church and Main, I speak with retired Disciples of Christ pastor Doug Skinner about Christian behavior during election years. (It isn't good.) We discuss the divisive rhetoric often found in the church and emphasize the need for kindness and grace despite political disagreements. Suggested Reading and Listening: Episode 139: Why I Am Disciples of Christ with Doug Skinner Links: Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://...
Sep 23, 2024•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 201
In this milestone 200th episode of Church in Maine, I chat with Jim Keat, digital minister at Riverside Church, about the theological foundations of digital ministry. We explore how technology enables authentic connections and engagement within congregations, especially during the shifts driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. Jim highlights the importance of a theology rooted in love, grace, and justice, advocating for a reconceptualization of church as a portable community. Our discussion challenges ...
Sep 17, 2024•47 min•Ep. 200
The importance of digital ministry was made clear during COVID when churches had to go all digital. But now that we are all back in the pews, is there still a need for digital ministry? If so, what does it look like beyond livestreaming Sunday worship? I talk with Ryan Dunn, a minister for online engagement with the United Methodist Church on how digital ministry can help churches foster strong, connected communities. Show Notes: Pastoring in the Digital Parish Podcast MyCom Podcast Donate: Venm...
Sep 09, 2024•57 min•Ep. 199
In the wake of a recent school shooting in Georgia, Dennis looks at the role of prayer and why Mainline/Progressive Christians should take the act of calling out to God more seriously. Show Notes: “Our expressed opinion is an essential pole of the process of God’s decision-making ” by Jason Micheli No Thing - by Chris Owen Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churcha...
Sep 08, 2024•29 min•Ep. 198
Joe Tognetti, a United Methodist pastor in McAllen, Texas, returns to the podcast and shares insights on the immigration experience at the U.S.-Mexico border. He dispels common misconceptions about the region and migrant caravans, emphasizing the role of local churches and humanitarian organizations in providing essential support to migrants. Suggested Reading and Listening: Rio Texas Conference UMC list of ministries : Catholic Charities RGV : Rio Valley Church of the Nazarene : St Mark UMC McA...
Sep 03, 2024•59 min•Ep. 197
This episode takes a hard look at J.D. Vance's surprising political evolution—from a vocal Trump critic to an ardent supporter—and the broader implications for our political landscape. We don’t hold back in critiquing the mainline Protestant and evangelical churches for their failure to adequately support the working class, arguing that this neglect has contributed to the rise of divisive figures like Trump. Our discussion underscores the urgent need for compassionate, effective solutions to the...
Aug 15, 2024•40 min•Ep. 196
Mark Tooley comes to the podcast to discuss the stark differences between Christian nationalism and traditional Christian conservatism, shedding light on a topic often muddled by media coverage. Tooley provides insights into why these two ideologies are frequently conflated and elucidates the unique characteristics that set them apart. Christian Conservatism vs. Christian Nationalism by Mark Tooley Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https:...
Aug 02, 2024•30 min•Ep. 195
Jack Haberer returns to talk about his latest book, "Swimming with the Sharks: Leading the Full Spectrum Church in a Red and Blue World." Using encounters with sharks as a metaphor, we explore the divisive forces in society and the importance of empathy in bridging divides. Jack challenges binary thinking, encourages partnership over proselytizing, and emphasizes biblical teachings on love and compassion. Suggested Reading and Listening: Swimming with the Sharks book Related Episodes: Voting as ...
Jul 24, 2024•59 min•Ep. 194
In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. and I discuss President Biden's surprising exit from the 2024 race and his endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris. We then touch on navigating cognitive decline in loved ones and highlight the significance of supportive relationships in guiding individuals through transitions and tough decisions. Emphasizing the role of faith communities in addressing societal challenges, we promote empathy and understanding in navigating transitions gracefully. Suggested...
Jul 22, 2024•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 193
Retired pastor Robert Cornwall discusses recent political events, emphasizing the importance of Christians responding to polarization and violence by seeing each other as children of God and fostering unity. The conversation explores the motives behind the assassination attempt on Trump, highlighting concerns about increasing polarization and violence in politics. Cornwall stresses the need for faith over political allegiances and courage in maintaining relationships across divides. The discussi...
Jul 19, 2024•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 192
What happens when you replace human-driven church growth strategies with a prayer-centered approach? In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Jeff, who recently completed his doctoral dissertation on the role of prayer in evangelism, to explore just that. Pastor Geoff Mitchell opens up about his personal prayer journey, especially amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His experiences of prayer walking through Midtown Memphis and the resulting transformation in his spiritual l...
Jul 16, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 191
In this episode, theologian Ted Smith explores the transformation of denominations in the United States, moving from broad structures to more specialized affinity groups. The shift is driven by societal changes, leading to more homogeneous and smaller denominations. Smith highlights advantages like reduced conflict, clearer paths to ordination, and lower institutional overhead. Despite benefits, challenges include the loss of diverse viewpoints and potential alignment with political movements. T...
Jul 08, 2024•47 min•Ep. 190
In this solo episode, Dennis looks at the first Presidential debate and the tendency in American politics to see our presidential candidates as saviors. Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: https://www.threads.net/@churchandmainpod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@churchmainpodcast Website: https://churchandmain.org/...
Jul 02, 2024•20 min•Ep. 189
The 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is set to meet soon in Salt Lake City. One of the many issues to be discussed is a proposal called the "Olympia Overture," which would formally prohibit discrimination against LGBTQ Presbyterians, but could according to some make it hard for those with different theological interpretations to remain in the denomination. In this episode, I talked with retired PC(USA) pastor and former editor of Presbyterian Outlook Jack Haberer about the...
Jun 24, 2024•59 min•Ep. 188
