Resilient Faith

Imagine if we took a sweeping journey across time, tracing the complex dance between individualism and collectivism, dissecting its influence on society, religion, and pop culture. What would we discover about our own identities, our communities, and our shared humanity? That's exactly what we set out to do in this enlightening episode of Resilient Faith, drawing on the wisdom of Archbishop D...

Ever found yourself paralyzed by fear, yet deep down, there's a spark of fearlessness that you long to harness? Well, we're about to dive into a soundtrack of resilience inspired by none other than pop icon Taylor Swift's song, "Fearless." Our journey navigates through the highs and lows of life, where we uncover how fear can often commandeer our emotions, actions, and ult...

What if we reframed being 'weird' as a symbol of divine distinction? Get ready to challenge societal norms and embrace your unique imprint of God's image as we delve into a faith-based exploration of diversity and individuality. Drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift's powerful lyrics and her mesmerizing performance at the Eras tour, we revel in the beauty of God's creation...

Welcome to Resilient Faith, the Podcast! This is our most popular episode from 2020, so enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving from BPC.  This guided meditation and contemplative practice will help you connect and reset....mind, body and spirit. Today's practice will help you share loving kindness in the world. As you explore the resilient power within you, remember this scripture: "We walk by faith,...

Ever considered how a pop star's lyrics could intersect with the timeless tales of the Bible? Have you wondered how these narratives can tackle the pressing issues of mental health? Join us as we weave together the story of Jonah and the music of Taylor Swift to unravel the beautiful message of resilience in faith. We discuss how this biblical account echoes in modern struggles and mental hea...

What if embracing your unique 'weirdness' is the key to experiencing God's glory? Take a leap of faith with us as we draw inspiration from the strength and endearing awkwardness of pop icon, Taylor Swift, to explore a faith journey that's anything but ordinary. We speak straight from our hearts about embracing God's glorious diversity, the beauty of being fearfully and won...

Wondering how Taylor Swift's music can intersect with the Gospel? Join our Pastors Lora East and Dave Carpenter, along with our music director, Nancy Reeves, unpack the surprising and insightful journey of our recent unconventional sermon series - the Gospel According to Taylor Swift. We'll shed light on why this series was chosen, the divine timing around it, and how it sparked deep, me...

How does collective grief impact our faith and resilience? In our recent heart-stirring episode of Resilient Faith, Pastor Laura East candidly explores this profound question. She paints a vivid picture of the shared pain and loss we all experience, emphasizing our interconnectedness during times of turmoil. Our conversation journeys into the inspiring pages of the book 'Lives we Actually hav...

Have you ever experienced the tranquil peace of a forest at night? Captivated by the melody of rustling leaves, the hooting of owls, and distant wildlife activities, we journey through a serene forest landscape, opening up an auditory treasure trove of nocturnal peace. As city dwellers, we may not all have access to a forest, but we show you how to create your own oasis of tranquility, whether tha...

Ready to embark on a journey of resilience and faith? What if I told you that in the ebb and flow of life and its trials, there's an unwavering presence that accompanies us? I'm Pastor Lora East and in this touching episode of Resilient Faith, I share an insightful undertaking of my summer experiences, teeming with travels, connections, and introspective moments, all under the compassion...

Thank you for tuning in to Brentwood Presbyterian Church’s ‘Resilient Faith Podcast’, where each week a meditation, a prayer, or quotes and discussion take place to ponder and consider….. I hope you can gleam something, even a little something from today’s listening… a prayer….. about us, our bodies, those miraculous things that hold our lives together with each breath we make, and with each breat...

By the seventh day, God had finished his work. On the seventh day he rested from all his work”. These ancient words are reflected in the fourth commandment; Exodus 20:8-10, “Observe the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Work six days and do everything you need to do. But the seventh day is a Sabbath to God, your God . . .”  ·        Bring yourself into God’s presence . Give thanks for God’s great love...

Dear God,  As I attempt to slow down my breathing with each breath that you've given me,  As I try to stop my feet from running with errands and side-trips and dropping off and picking up,  As I pause my brain to refresh and take in …slowly… all that I see and hear and is wondrous around me… Be with me this week….  Be with me and all of my messy mistakes, all of my tripping, all of my stumbli...

Trees have been an important part of my life from my beginnings and during the pandemic they provided a welcomed presence and peace that I had not ever experienced in quite that way. I was raised in the hills of rural Ohio among many different kinds of trees. I have climbed them, eaten their fruit, hiked and walked among them, watched their autumn and spring transformations, enjoyed their dormant...

Close your eyes and find a comfortable position, allowing your body to relax. Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, let go of any tension or distractions. Today, we will focus on forgiveness and faith—a powerful combination that can bring profound healing and peace to our lives. Begin by reflecting on the concept of forgiveness. Consider any lingering resentments or grievances that weigh upon...

Enjoy this beautiful lesson in nurturing our bodies and mind. Mary Garbesi once again shares her insight on life. Mary is the Director of Congregational Care at BPC.  Blessings and Peace,  BPC Support the show Support us here: https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Summer has begun.                                                                            Winter and Spring have said goodbye for now!  Or maybe they are saying…”Look what’s next!!  - We’ll be back!  But look what we’ve brought you!  -Enjoy the summer!”  Summer to many of us… means simple. Slowing down. A little easier maybe? Relishing the warm days, the nights with the crickets coming out and...

A great practice to help us realize when we say yes or no. Saying yes is good, but saying NO is also good and important.  Let us review our day with gratitude and joy for options of yes and no.  Blessings and Peace. Support the show Support us here: https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

In honor of our Podcast and 3 full years of success bringing you meditation, prayers and spiritual lessons, enjoy our most popular podcast, Resilient Faith!  Support the show Support us here: https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Dear God, In the morning…… let me be thankful for the floor on which I place my feet. Strong, dry, solid…maybe even dirty… but waiting for me to stand … and see the day ahead of me. Let me give thanks for the sun rising and giving warmth to this Earth, whether we see it in the glistening of the dew on the leaves and grasses that rinse themselves with moisture and give a sip of water to even the sm...

I have been thinking about awe and wonder, so I have become curious and spent some time reflecting on and exploring their meaning and experience in my life.  I found that awe has become an area of interest in the field of psychology and research. Dacher Keltner, a psychologist at the University of California at Berkeley, has researched the subject and reported his findings in his recent book, titl...

Join Lora today as we talk about finding happiness and trusting God to know what we need. Have faith...have patience...trust in the Lord! Luke 12:22-31 22 Then, turning to his disciples, Jesus said, “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food to eat or enough clothes to wear. 23 For life is more than food, and your body more than clothing. 24 Look at the r...

Prayers to uplift us and bring us meditation time to rejoice and appreciate all that God has given us.  Join us this week as our birthday girl. Betsy Newell, joins us a the guest leader of this podcast meditation. Use this time to pray and reflect.  Amen! Support the show Support us here: https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/ BPC Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyteria...

Daily Prayer:  Merciful God, You see deep into our hearts and know us better than we know ourselves. Forgive us, we pray. For the times we turn away from Your word, and forget of your grace, remind us that You are the Lord our God, and our eternal father and guide. For our impulses of anger, jealousy, guilt or sadness, grant us Your healing peace. For our resistance to forgiveness, abundance and m...

If God called your name today, what would be the call, the charge, the ask? Pray and meditate on how you would answer and what you are willing to do....for God? We all have callings throughout our life and our answer can change things. Have you been called? Do you know a time that you have been asked to do something that seems questionable?  Acts 9:1-20 The Damascus Road: Saul Converted 9 Then Sau...