What's the Tea with Ministry?

What if a single week could expand your world—and reshape how you serve back home? We sit down with campus minister Sammy Eckrich and nursing student Kylee Foster to trace the arc of Detroit Mercy’s service immersion program, from building a ramp in Appalachia to standing beneath the steel columns of the National Memorial for Peace and Justice in Montgomery. The thread that ties it together is sim...

What makes Detroit Mercy unique among thousands of universities worldwide? Father Charles Oduke, Vice President for Mission Integration, reveals the answer through our newly articulated core values that braid together our Jesuit and Mercy traditions. "These values aren't new—they're newly articulated," Father Charles explains, highlighting how they've always been part of o...

The Service in the City program stands at the heart of Detroit Mercy's commitment to educational equity and community engagement. This powerful tutoring initiative connects university students with three vital community partners—Loyola High School, La Casa Guadalupana, and Brilliant Detroit (now Brilliant Cities)—each addressing unique educational needs within our city. What distinguishes thi...

Megan Novell brings a passionate optimism to her role as Executive Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity at University of Detroit Mercy. Despite the complex challenges facing DEI work today, she remains steadfastly committed to creating spaces where everyone can thrive regardless of gender, race, disability, or any other aspect of identity. During our wide-ranging conversation over cups of t...

Step into the heart of Ramadan as we explore its profound significance in the Muslim faith. In this enlightening episode, we engage with guests Oussama Ajerd and Hisham Almadani to share personal insights and traditions surrounding this special month. Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink; it is a time for spiritual growth, charity, and community bonding, enriching lives through...

Embark on a journey of discovery with us as we honor the lives and legacies of six African Americans on their path to sainthood, shining a light on their profound impact on the Catholic Church. Ever wondered what it takes to be a saint? Uncover the steps from being named a Servant of God to achieving sainthood, and learn about the vital role of living a virtuous life and the need for miracles in t...

Join us on "What's the Tea with Ministry" as we brew an enlightening discussion with our special guests, Ashlee Barnes and Mary-Catherine Harrison, co-chairs of the Mission Effectiveness Team at the University of Detroit Mercy. Ashlee shares her remarkable journey from adjunct faculty to a full-time assistant professor, revealing her passion for nurturing student-centered education....

Join us for a heartwarming episode of "What's the Tea with Ministry" as we welcome new community members Sammy Eckrich and Becky Vires. Sammy, with her vibrant passion for education and eco-theology, takes on the role of University Minister for Service and Justice, connecting faith with action. Meanwhile, Becky, fresh from her college journey, channels her enthusiasm for social just...

Can a simple cup of tea create a stronger sense of connection and wellness? Join us for an intriguing conversation with Sydney Gordinier and Anasia Staley as they share their journeys in promoting wellness at the University of Detroit Mercy. Sydney, an experienced nurse practitioner, and Anasia, a dedicated fourth-year nursing student, bring their unique perspectives to a dialogue that covers ever...

Discover how the Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN) at the University of Detroit Mercy is transforming Detroit's food landscape through Community collaboration and student-led initiatives. What if students could spearhead a movement that reshapes a community's relationship with food? Hear from Chelsea, the passionate program manager, and Serena, an inspiring student leader, as they shar...

Uncover the powerful blend of faith and advocacy as we welcome Maryam Qoda, a senior at Detroit Mercy, and Chelsea Puckett from NETWORK, a faith-based political advocacy organization. What if your vote could resonate with your deepest values? Chelsea, who leads the YALL program, shares her insights on empowering young citizens to translate their beliefs into action during crucial election years. W...

Can you imagine navigating higher education while carrying the weight of uncertain immigration status? Marina Mahmoud and Brenda Bravo Villaruel have not only faced these challenges head-on but have also championed support for others in similar situations through the Titan Dreamers organization at the University of Detroit Mercy. Join us as Marina, a DACA recipient and recent graduate, reveals her...

How does one balance the demands of ministry with the necessity of self-care? Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Sister Kelly Williams, RSM, a cherished Sister of Mercy of the Americas, as she shares her profound journey through the Mercy tradition. From her early years in Savannah, Georgia, to her impactful work in healthcare in Biloxi, Mississippi, Sister Kelly brings to life the legacy o...

We have a special episode this week highlighting the similarities in the liturgical season of Lent and the Holy Month of Ramadan. Listen as  Father Charles Oduke and Imam Matthew Schumann, weave a rich tapestry of dialogue, celebrating the intertwining of our spiritual journeys. They delve into the profound practices of Lent—prayer, reconciliation, fasting, almsgiving—and the preparation for Easte...

Have you ever felt the profound connection between a melody and your soul? That's the golden thread interwoven throughout our latest episode, where the extraordinary Dan Greig and Oriekaose Agholor share the stage. Their stories of pianos and saxophones, choirs and afrobeats, not only tug at the heartstrings but also serve as a testament to the impact of music on spirituality and community. J...

Have you ever paused in your daily hustle to sense the divine in the ordinary? Join us as Father Damian Torres-Botello unveils the practice of being 'contemplatives in action'. Our enlightening conversation traverses the landscape of integrating spirituality in routine life. Whether it's marveling at the simplicity of nature or finding meaning in the mundane, Father Damien guides us...

Ever find yourself reaching for a cup of sleepy time tea as a nightly ritual to unwind? Father Damian Torres-Botello SJ does, and it's these small, meaningful practices that help him nurture his faith amidst a bustling life. Join us for part one of our conversation  as Father Damian, a Jesuit and advocate for the voiceless, shares his inspiring journey through spirituality and self-discovery....

This bonus episode is a look into who are the hosts of What's the Tea with Ministry Podcast. Anna Lawler and Margo Iwu sit down to share a bit more about themselves, how they came to be involved in the podcast and a share about their personal faith journeys. Margo and Anna even answer some of the questions they ask guests!

This episode features Student Government Association President Mark Formosa and Vice President Cristal Guzman. The conversation on this episode revolves around student leadership and community at Detroit Mercy. We hear from Mark and Cristal share about their involvement in SGA and why leadership is important to them. Mark and Cristal also share what they are thankful for in preparation for Thanksg...

This week we sit down with Sr. Helen Marie Burns, RSM. A Sister of Mercy and member of the Board of Trustees. Sr. Helen Marie opens up the story of Catherine McAuley and the founding of the Sisters of Mercy, sharing insights into Catherine and the early sisters lives and the realities in which they were working and serving. Tune in to learn more about the Foundress of the Sisters of Mercy and why...

In this episode we sit down with Professor Matt Mio from the School of Engineering and Science to talk about the relationship of faith and science. Professor Mio shares about his faith, his journey to Detroit Mercy and the role mission has had in his life. 

This week's podcast is an interview with Dr. Prasad Venagopal and Senior Cari Gamlin. They share about their efforts to create a more just and sustainable world. Cari speaks about their involvement in the creation of TEAs: Titan Ecology and Sustainability and Prasad shares on his experience with the Laudato Si' task force. Listen to them share about the ways they are advocating for a mor...

We sit down with Fr. Gilbert to talk about who St. Ignatius is and what his personal experiences with the Jesuits has been. We cover a bit about Ignatius' and Detroit Mercy's history and the influence of Ignatian Spirituality.  Join us in listening to Fr. Gilbert share about creating sacred spaces in the Student Union and the his history with the School of Architecture and Community Deve...