Learn and Discern

In this episode of Learn and Discern , host Mitch McCartney speaks with Rev. Dr. Laurie Jungling and Rev. Dr. John Roth about how Christians can navigate deep disagreements, particularly around the ELCA's reconsideration of its human sexuality social statement. The conversation explores the underlying causes of disagreement, including differing interpretations of scripture, tradition, reason,...

In this episode of Learn and Discern, host Mitch McCartney speaks with ELCA Churchwide staff members, Ms. Kristen Opalinski (Manager, Ecumenical and Interreligious Relations) and Regina Banks (Director, Lutheran Office of Public Policy California) about how Christians can engage in difficult yet faithful conversations within the church, as well as the role of ELCA social teachings in shaping faith...

In episode 3 of the podcast Learn and Discern, our host Mitch McCartney discusses the concept of "bound conscience" with Professor Tim Wengert. Originating from Lutheran Reformation history and biblical tradition, this framework aims to foster pastoral care and mutual conversation amidst disagreements. Wengert explores its application in the ELCA's 2009 social statement on human sex...

This episode of Learn and Discern features host Mitch McCartney and guest, the Rev. Dr. Kathryn "Kit" Kleinhans discussing the nuances of Lutheran ethics. The discussion covers several key themes regarding how Lutheran theology informs ethical decision-making: faith and works; the “both/and” perspective; love of neighbor including justice; public ethics; and community discernment. Listen...

This episode offers a brief history of ELCA social teaching and its influence on ministry policy concerning sexuality, marriage, and same-gender relationships. Your host, Mitch McCartney, visits with Dr. Roger Willer, the recently retired Director of Theological Ethics for the ELCA churchwide organization, about how the ELCA got to where it is now in its social teaching on these topics. Roger and...