Liminal Living

To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 124. Sponsors Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off) Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)  Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)&n...

takeaways Keith Giles has written multiple books, including a series on quantum gospels. The Gospel of Mary is a fragmentary text with significant insights. Mary Magdalene is likely the central figure in the Gospel of Mary. The text emphasizes the idea of Christ within all individuals. There were multiple early Christian communities with differing beliefs. The Gospel of Mary aligns with the egalit...

Cynthia Beach has a deep connection to Castle Rock, Northern Ireland, which inspires her writing. Her upbringing in a wealthy family contrasted with her mother's devout spirituality. Disillusionment with Christian institutions shaped her understanding of faith. Frederick Douglass's writings provided a framework for navigating faith amidst disillusionment. Operational faith often leads to a focus o...

Catherine experienced her faith journey in small, incremental shifts. Questioning beliefs can lead to deeper understanding and growth. Maturity in faith involves embracing uncertainty and mystery. The divine can be understood through both masculine and feminine imagery. Catherine's experiences with church communities shaped her views on faith. The journey of questioning can be seen as an invitatio...

takeaways Lauren's required reading is 'Life of Pi' for its depth. 'Grapes of Wrath' illustrates systemic evil in society. Growing up in a fundamentalist bubble shaped her faith. Trauma led to a painful deconstruction of her beliefs. Emotional prosperity gospel can distort faith expectations. Therapy was a crucial step in her healing process. Traveling to India was a leap of faith for her. Cultura...

takeaways Bach's music exemplifies a pure expression of creativity. Creativity flows from a dance between internal and external influences. Individuality is a unique expression of the universal flow. Consciousness transcends the boundaries of ego and identity. The sacred can be found in everyday moments and experiences. Rituals can help us recognize the sacred in our lives. Creativity requires bot...

takeaways Andrew Root feels most comfortable surrounded by his books. The connection between humans and dogs is mystical and profound. Andrew's childhood experiences with grief shaped his faith. Lutheranism has a unique cultural context in the Midwest. Evangelism should focus on consolation rather than mere conversion. The church's role is to walk with people in their sorrow. Modern society strugg...

Take Aways Life experiences broaden your understanding of meaning. Family significantly impacts one's perspective on life. Cultural and community influences shape personal values. Art and beauty provide a deeper understanding of existence. Navigating societal expectations can be challenging. Authenticity is crucial in personal and professional spaces. External forces can guide life in unexpected w...

Keith Giles has written extensively on biblical topics, including the Book of Romans. The collaborative project with Matthew de Stefano was born out of a shared concern about the misinterpretation of Romans. Romans is often misused to justify negative ideologies, which the authors aim to correct. Understanding the structure of Paul's arguments is crucial for accurate interpretation of Romans. The...

Show Outline: Podcast Reflections & Growth Tom’s journey from uncertainty to confidence in hosting. Lessons from awkward interviews and maintaining consistency. Peter Rollins & Parables Kevin’s college story using Rollins’ parable of the mystic, evangelical, and fundamentalist. The role of mysticism in challenging dogma. Kevin’s New Book: Cosmic Christ and Concrete Jesus Origins: Re-examining fait...

takeaways Howard Thurman is a significant figure for understanding hope in difficult times. The current political climate creates a crisis of hope for many. Progressive Christianity can serve as a counterforce to conservative ideologies. Empathy is essential for ethical behavior and morality. There is a divide in Christianity that reflects differing beliefs about God. Fear and grievance play a sig...

takeaways Dillon discusses the cultural diversity in Lancaster County, highlighting the coexistence of Amish and Christian nationalists. He emphasizes the importance of love and neighborly kindness in his theological approach. Dillon's writing project critiques Christian nationalism through the lens of Jesus and Paul's teachings. He expresses a desire to understand biblical figures and their teach...

Key Takeaways Christian Nationalism Defined : A political ideology merging American and Christian identities, often excluding non-Christians and enforcing conservative, white supremacist norms. Historical Roots : Christian nationalism is intertwined with the doctrine of discovery, slavery, and segregation, using faith to justify oppression. Power Over Principles : The alignment of some Christian g...

Key Takeaways From Beliefs to Practice : Aaron advocates for shifting from a beliefs-based faith to a practice-based spirituality, where doing (e.g., forgiveness, liturgy, service) shapes belief more than intellectual assent. Ecumenical Future : The future of faith communities lies in crossing denominational silos, integrating traditions (e.g., evangelical hospitality with liturgical depth), and c...

🔑 Key Topics Covered: From Charismatic to Anglican: Preston’s journey from a Tulsa megachurch upbringing to embracing sacramental, liturgical traditions. Why Easter Matters for 50 Days: Rediscovering resurrection as a way of life —not just a doctrine—and its implications for justice, forgiveness, and hope. Liturgical Living: How ancient rhythms (like Lent, Eastertide, and Ordinary Time) reshape f...

🔑 Key Topics Covered: Why Supernaturalism Fails: Unpacking the medieval roots of supernaturalism and its incompatibility with modern questions of suffering (theodicy) and free will. Process Theology 101: Discover how thinkers like Alfred North Whitehead, David Ray Griffin, and Thomas J. Ord redefine God as a relational, persuasive force within—not above—the natural world. Panentheism vs. Supernat...

takeaways Grounding in spiritual practices is essential during chaotic times. Community support can provide strength and resilience. Limiting social media exposure can help maintain mental health. Deconstruction can be a transformative process, akin to a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. Creativity can serve as a pathway to hope and healing. Intentionality in actions can turn everyday activities i...

takeaways Danny Bryant grew up in a religious cult that emphasized moral perfection. Literature played a significant role in shaping Danny's worldview and personal growth. Leaving the cult was a long and complex process for Danny, taking over a decade. Danny's experience in the cult led him to question many beliefs and seek a more inclusive faith. The trauma from his upbringing continues to influe...

takeaways Bad theology shapes harmful societal priorities. Our understanding of God influences our actions. Genesis 1 introduces God as a creator from chaos. Jesus embodies the Word that brings order. Creation reflects a rhythm of forming and filling. Humans are stewards of God's creation, not slaves. Rest is essential for sustaining life and faith. The biblical narrative invites trust in God's pr...

Takeaways Brandon's morning routine includes ice baths for wellness. Experiencing a sense of goodness at a young age shaped Brandon's faith. Faith can provide structure but should not be overly rigid. Questions about faith can lead to feeling on the fringes of religious communities. Confession and vulnerability can deepen community connections. Books can profoundly impact one's understanding of fa...

takeaways David's early experiences shaped his adventurous spirit. He has a diverse background in various Christian denominations. His journey in faith has been marked by exploration and questioning. A pivotal moment in seminary led to a crisis of faith. David emphasizes the importance of navigating between faith and doubt. He experienced a profound flash of insight about the oneness of all things...

takeaways Dr. Bauman's book addresses sexism and abuse in the church. He conducted extensive research with over 2,800 women. The church has a history of silencing women's experiences. Authenticity is crucial in addressing personal and communal trauma. Patriarchy fosters a culture of secrecy and shame. Weaponizing forgiveness can harm victims of abuse. Theological beliefs should evolve and shed out...

takeaways Taylor is currently fascinated by Nosferatu and its historical context. Nosferatu represents a preconception of vampires before they became romanticized. Horror films often reflect societal anxieties and fears. Taylor's upbringing in Appalachia was marked by a unique blend of faith traditions. A progressive preacher changed Taylor's perspective on Christianity. Thomas Merton's teachings...

Take Aways Liz became a birth doula after her own experiences with childbirth. The process of becoming a mother can be isolating and taboo. Doulas provide emotional and psychological support during childbirth. Birth is a transformative experience for families, not just individuals. Liz's work as a doula involved helping families navigate their expectations and fears. Women in leadership roles ofte...

takeaways The course 'Whitehead's Universe' aims to introduce beginners to process philosophy. Whitehead's thinking is described as a prism, requiring multiple perspectives to understand. Experience is fundamental to both science and spirituality, shaping our understanding of reality. Process philosophy sees the world as fundamentally verb-like, emphasizing becoming over being. God is not static b...