Faith Unfiltered Podcast

Aliyah, Christian, and Mike are back in the Swarm at Graceland University, and they’re sitting down with Iowa native, Cadence Sires. Grab your favorite cup of (fill in the blank) and settle in for this episode of Coffee in the Swarm. Get a glimpse into life at Graceland from the perspective of a first-year student who grew up in Community of Christ, and has wasted no time in getting involved on ca...

WARNING: This episode may make those with small personal space a little uncomfortable because things are going to get a little “clingy.” That’s right, this week Jesus tells his disciples (and us) that he is the vine and we are the branches. The goal ... bearing fruit. And, in order to bear fruit, the branches need to cling to (a.k.a. abide in) the vine. Those who don’t ... well, we hear tell that...

Podcasts within a podcast! As part of our ongoing celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the ordination of women in Community of Christ, we’re bringing back some excellent interviews with some of the first women to have been ordained as featured in “Women’s Rights.” These podcasts were written, edited and produced by students of David Howlett, scholar of religion in America and professor at Smith...

Podcasts within a podcast! As part of our ongoing celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the ordination of women in Community of Christ, we’re bringing back some excellent interviews with some of the first women to have been ordained as featured in “Women’s Rights.” These podcasts were written, edited and produced by students of David Howlett, scholar of religion in America and professor at Smith...

Could it be that Christianity drew some of its images from surrounding culture?  Of course! Not only could it, it did! And, the Good Shepherd seems to be one of those images. How else might we know what Jesus meant by using “good” as a descriptor here in today’s passage?  Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for this week’s Coffee to Go, as they encourage listeners to identify images and charact...

Podcasts within a podcast! As part of our ongoing celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the ordination of women in Community of Christ, we’re bringing back some excellent interviews with some of the first women to have been ordained as featured in “Women’s Rites.” These podcasts were written, edited and produced by students of David Howlett, scholar of religion in America and professor at Smith C...

Community of Christ’s journey toward ordination of women began long before 1984 and Section 156 of the Doctrine and Covenants. The fact is that women have had significant roles in the Christian movement since its inception.  But, that didn’t make things easier for trailblazers like Marietta Walker, Catherine Westward, and Marge Troeh.  These women stand among many who have worked tirelessly to acc...

Invite, eat, open, send! Four easy steps to being a witness ... or, if you prefer, a storyteller. Nothing to be afraid of, right? And yet, the disciples were just that ... afraid. Join hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith, for another look at the post-resurrection encounter between Jesus and his first disciples. This time from Luke’s perspective. Get a glimpse into the ways that Jesus encouraged, em...

Community of Christ’s journey toward ordination of women began long before 1984 and Section 156 of the Doctrine and Covenants. The fact is that women have had significant roles in the Christian movement since its inception.  But, that didn’t make things easier for trailblazers like Marietta Walker, Catherine Westward, and Marge Troeh.  These women stand among many who have worked tirelessly to acc...

From practical legal implement to inspiring logo, what we now know as the church seal has been around since April 8, 1874. It all started with a lion, a lamb, a child, a palm tree, three continents, and some laurel leaves.  Since then it’s had several iterations... all with deep significance in the lives of church members around the world.  Grab a “cuppa” and settle in as Andrew shares the history...

Jesus shows up. On this Second Sunday of Easter, join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for a look into the passage from the Gospel According to John too often referred to as the “Doubting Thomas” passage.  See how the passage emphasizes Jesus' presence in times of fear and doubt and highlights the idea that Jesus breathes life into those who are afraid and without power, offering hope and re...

Project Zion Podcast is teaming up with Smith College Professor David Howlett to release a series of podcasts his student created on women's ordination in Community of Christ.  This episode features a brief introduction to the RLDS/Community of Christ, what ordination and priesthood entail, and what church life was like for women before women’s ordination. Featured interviewees: Carolyn Brock...

This episode first aired on May 27, 2020. A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you. Download Transcript Thanks for listening to Faith Unfiltered! Follow us on Facebook and Instagram ! Intro and Outro music used with permission:  “For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Mus...

Join us for a thought-provoking Easter episode of Coffee to Go, where we explore the significance of the resurrection and the role of those without power (especially women) in the biblical account. Karin Peter and Blake Smith delve into the Gospel of Mark, challenging traditional gender roles and emphasizing the message that God meets individuals in the midst of chaos. You'll be encouraged to...

The quiet time between the crucifixion and the resurrection provides another great opportunity to explore themes of reflection, racial bias, and ethical integrity in the face of hatred and violence. Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith for this special “Holy Saturday” episode of Coffee to Go. Listen in as they discuss the roles of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus as well as many other Jews in s...

Tune in for a reflective and meditative experience where hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith, delve into the Scripture passage from the Gospel of John, which takes us through the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion, emphasizing Jesus' nonconformity and his challenge to established religious authorities. The episode concludes with a prayer, urging listeners to embody courage and selflessn...

Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the Christian tradition on Maundy Thursday with this special episode of Coffee to Go. Hosts, Karin Peter and Blake Smith explore the significance of Jesus' act of foot-washing during the Last Supper, emphasizing the themes of humility, vulnerability, and love. Delve into the transformative power of humble service and its alignment with the chara...

How is it that someone with so much influence on the church has gotten so little attention? Join host Karin Peter for an insightful discussion on the life and legacy of William Marks, a prominent figure in Mormon history. Historians John Dinger and Cheryl Bruno share their in-depth research and upcoming book release, shedding light on Marks' unwavering faith and enduring influence. Don't...

Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the scriptures and traditions of the Christian faith in our latest episode of Coffee to Go. In this special Palm Sunday episode, Karin Peter and Blake Smith delve into the Gospel of Mark's portrayal of Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, exploring themes of humility, authenticity, and servanthood. Discover the significance of Palm Sunday and how i...

Exciting news! Our latest Extra Shot episode is now live, featuring conversations with Christian Skoorsmith, Kellie Brady, David Howlett, and Kris Judd. Join us as we delve into the emotional impact of the recent sale of historic properties within the church. Hear personal reflections, insights, and a message of unity and healing from our esteemed guests. Don't miss this thought-provoking dis...

Join us as we explore "International Perspectives on Sacred Space" with four Community of Christ apostles. From the unique church history in diverse nations to the sacred places that connect their people, this episode offers a glimpse into the global vision and hope for the future of the church. Hear firsthand stories of faith, mission, and God's vibrant presence across the globe. D...

Some Greeks want to see Jesus. That’s the subtitle of today’s focus passage for Coffee to Go.  The question is, should we let them? Should we make Jesus accessible to whoever wants to see him? Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith, for their discussion of the possible exclusive way the focus passage is often read, as well as an alternate way to read it in which God’s “honor” becomes much more inc...

As Community of Christ members continue to process the news regarding the sale of the Kirtland Temple, the Nauvoo Historic Sites, and other historical artifacts, many emotions and even more questions have arisen. In this up close and personal Extra Shot episode, host Robin Linkhart talks with member of the First Presidency, Stassi Cramm, and Presiding Bishop, Ron Harmon in an effort to get a sense...

Physical places have always played an important role in preserving history. Much more important for a church called to Christ’s mission is how we integrate it into our lives, learn from it, and carry it forward by becoming the storytellers that keep it alive. In this episode of Cuppa Joe, Apostle Lach Mackay (also Director of Historic Sites and a direct descendent of Joseph Smith III) sits down wi...

This little light of mine ... I’m gonna let it shine! Today we take a break from walking with Jesus, and take a few minutes to talk about him. Why, in fact, did God send the Son to the world? Is it so that a few select people who believe a certain way and act a certain way (at least on Sundays) could get to heaven?  We think not! Join hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith, for a deep look into a passa...