Brandon shares his personal journey from a fundamentalist background at Moody Bible Institute to becoming a progressive champion for LGBTQ+ rights. The group discusses the inherently transgressive nature of Jesus's ministry, the importance of reading scripture through liberationist and queer lenses, and how to shift from fear-based religious boundaries to value-centered, harm-reducing ethics.

The episode concludes with a live Q&A with our book club members, tackling tough questions about staying in conservative spaces, navigating relationships with non-affirming loved ones, and reimagining historical assumptions about Jesus.

Links & Resources:

• Find and join our next book club session: oceansidesanctuary.org/calendar

• Support our mission: The Collective Table is a production of the Oceanside Sanctuary. To help us keep building communities of love and liberation, please consider becoming a supporter at oceansidesanctuary.org/give.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the practice of prayer for those reconstructing their faith, the reclaiming of Kingdom of God language from Christian Nationalism, and how to approach Biblical interpretation not as a search for certainty, but as a pilgrimage of trust. Dr. Gushee shares insights on loving enemies, the Sermon on the Mount, and the importance of viewing the church as a community of journeyers.

Dr. David Gushee is the Distinguished University Professor of Christian Ethics at Mercer University and Chair of Christian Social Ethics at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. He is the author or editor of more than 25 books, including Changing Our Mind and After Evangelicalism. As a scholar and activist, he has spent decades helping the church think with greater clarity, courage, and compassion about following Jesus in the modern world.

Learn More:

For more on Dr. Gushee’s work, visit davidpgushee.com.

Get the book: The Moral Teachings of Jesus on Amazon Here

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church in Oceanside California. To learn more about us, or to support the work we do, visit us online at www.oceansidesanctuary.org 

In this episode, host Jason Coker introduces Tindo, a beloved member of the Oceanside Sanctuary community. Born intersex and assigned male at birth, Tindo was surgically reassigned as female at three months old and raised as "Cynthia." After living for five decades in a gender identity that never quite fit—including time as a debutante and women's auxiliary member—Tindo began a courageous journey of self-discovery to reclaim their authentic self.

Tindo shares their powerful story of navigating the medical and societal trauma of being an intersex person in a binary world. They discuss the profound "empathy journey" required to forgive their parents for decisions made without consent, and how they found spiritual affirmation in the words of Jesus. This conversation is a testament to the power of self-compassion and the possibility of post-traumatic growth.

• The Intersex Reality: Understanding the biological reality of intersex bodies (1.7% of the population) and the history of non-consensual medical interventions.

• Living as Cynthia: Tindo’s experience growing up with a secret medical history and the pressure to perform hyper-femininity.

• The Empathy Journey: How Tindo moved from anger to understanding, using self-empathy to reconcile with their father and the memory of their mother.

• Biblical Validation: A deep dive into Matthew 19, where Jesus’s discussion of eunuchs offers a liberating theology for gender-liminal lives.

• Faith & Legislation: A look at current political efforts to erase intersex existence and why spiritual communities must stand for truth.

Join us for a conversation about the borders we cross to find our true selves, and the grace we find on the other side.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Chicago Tribune Article (2018) by Nara Schoenberg profiling Tindo/Cynthia

• North County LGBTQ Resource Center & Pride by the Beach

• Post-Traumatic Growth research by Richard Tedeschi and Lawrence Calhoun

• Self-Compassion research by Kristin Neff and Paul Gilbert

• Scripture: Matthew 19; Deuteronomy 24

Learn more about us at oceansidesanctuary.org

Follow us on Instagram @thecollectivetable

As the oldest daughter of immigrant parents who fled civil war in El Salvador, Dinora became a "translator" early in life—navigating complex systems for her family in a language they didn’t speak. She shares a heart-wrenching childhood story of a brush with law enforcement that exposed the harsh realities of structural bias—a reality Jenell contrasts with her own experience to highlight the profound difference privilege makes.

Together, they discuss:

• The Power of Faith-Based Organizing: How SDOP unites congregations to move from charity to justice, securing wins like the Immigrant Legal Defense Program and the Oceanside Police De-escalation Policy.

• The Challenge of Coalition: Why real solidarity isn't supposed to feel like "home," and the difficult work of building bridges across race, class, and faith.

• Intersectionality & Identity: Dinora’s experience leading as a queer, Latina, Catholic woman, and the tension of navigating spaces that don't always fully embrace her.

• Avoiding the "Oppression Olympics": How to honor distinct pains without letting them divide the movement for collective liberation.

Join us for a conversation about living in the "in-between" and using that unique vantage point to build a more just and empathetic world.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• San Diego Organizing Project (SDOP)

• Coalition Politics by Bernice Johnson Reagon

• The "Oppression Olympics" (Elizabeth Martínez & Angela Davis)

Learn more about us at Oceansidesanctuary.org

Follow us on Instagram @Oceansidesanctuary

Guest Bio:

Peter Makari is the Global Relations Minister for the Middle East and Europe with the Common Global Ministries Board of the United Church of Christ and the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), a role he has held since 2000. He is deeply engaged in national interfaith and policy work, serving as co-convener of both the National Council of Churches’ Interreligious Convening Table and the Faith Forum for Middle East Policy, while also representing his denominations on the boards of Churches for Middle East Peace and the Shoulder to Shoulder Campaign.

An Egyptian-American with extensive experience living and working in the Middle East, Peter previously served with the Coptic Evangelical Organization for Social Services in Cairo and the Middle East Council of Churches in Cyprus. He holds advanced degrees in Middle East studies and politics from the American University in Cairo and New York University. He is co-editor of Rooted in Faith and Justice and Restoring Dignity, and author of Conflict and Cooperation. He is a member of West Park United Church of Christ in Cleveland, Ohio.

Learn More About Us:

The Collective Table is a Ministry of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church in Oceanside, CA

Follow us on Instagram

In this episode of The Collective Table Podcast, host Jason Coker shares how Kris’s journey—from the punk rock shows of Provo, Utah to a two-year mission in Guatemala, to his work as a public librarian—reveals empathy as both a personal practice and a social force.

Raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Kris began asking hard questions about faith, justice, and belonging. Punk rock offered community. Activism gave those convictions purpose. And the library became the place where it all came together—a space of radical inclusion where everyone belongs.

Through Kris’s story, Jason explores what sociologists call social infrastructure—the shared spaces that hold communities together—and how they mirror the very heart of empathy itself.

Curious. Courageous. Deeply human.
This is Kris’s story—and a testament to empathy as the quiet architecture of community.

Learn more about us at Oceansidesanctuary.org

Follow us on Instagram @Oceansidesanctuary

From her parents’ immigrant journey from Costa Rica and Guatemala, to her own path through loss, burnout, and quiet resilience, Victoria embodies compassion in action. Along the way, Jason explores what science and scripture both teach us: that empathy is more than emotion—it’s the engine of compassion, courage, and community.

Featuring reflections from pantry volunteers and deep dives into research and gospel stories, this episode invites us to ask:
When does empathy call us to cross the boundaries of comfort, and when does it become the bridge that heals?

Quiet. Sad. Hopeful. This is Victoria’s story—and the story of how empathy transforms us all.

PS: The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church. Click here to learn more about us and our mission

Episode Description:

What happens when the traditional model of church no longer fits the world we live in? In this thought-provoking conversation, Rev. Amy Butler, author of Holy Disruption, joins us to talk about what it means to courageously reimagine faith communities for our time.

Drawing from her experiences as a pastor and leader, Rev. Butler explores how declining attendance and shifting cultural landscapes—while challenging—can actually open doors for creativity, innovation, and renewed mission.

We talk about:

• Why “holy disruption” is essential for spiritual growth and institutional renewal

• Stories of communities breaking free from convention to embody God’s love in new ways

• How social enterprise can fuel sustainable ministry and healing in the world

• The personal courage it takes to lead change in faith spaces

Whether you’re a pastor, lay leader, or someone yearning for a faith that feels alive and relevant, this episode will leave you inspired to imagine what’s possible when we stop clinging to the past and start embracing the Spirit of disruption.

Guest Bio:

Rev. Amy Butler is the founder of Community Church of Honolulu and the former Senior Minister of The Riverside Church in New York City—the first woman to hold that position. Through her writing and leadership, she advocates for courageous faith, inclusive community, and creative expressions of God’s love in a rapidly changing world. Her latest book, Holy Disruption: Discovering Your Place in God’s Movement of Change, invites readers to see the decline of traditional structures not as loss, but as sacred opportunity.

Learn More About Author:

• Book: Holy Disruption by Rev. Amy Butler 

• Follow Rev. Amy Butler: Website, Instagram

Learn More About Us:

The Collective Table is a Ministry of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church in Oceanside, CA

Follow us on Instagram

Raised in a Southern California Baptist church, David learned early that being a “good Christian” meant having the right answers. But through science, parenting, travel, and loss, he began to see faith less as a system to defend and more as a posture of love.

From the cultural weight of purity culture and the fear of the rapture, to his daughter’s courageous questions and the painful beauty of walking alongside his son through cancer, David’s story is one of dismantling judgment and rediscovering Jesus’ radical empathy.

This episode invites you to consider: What if the real work of faith isn’t about saving others — but about seeing them?

Featuring reflective storytelling, honest conversation, and a few taco-loving moments of levity.

Learn more or support our work: https://oceansidesanctuary.org

Follow us on Instagram!

OSC

TCT

Host Jenell Coker walks with Caroline through memories of a childhood spent raking shag carpet and hiding tears, a teenage faith shaken by grief, and the healing presence of a stepsister who affirmed that feeling deeply is not a flaw. Today, Caroline channels that hard-won empathy into her work with traumatized teens, embodying a quiet gospel of presence and love.

Along the way, Jenell reflects on the roots of “making mountains out of molehills,” the medieval Christian practice of holy weeping, and the radical possibility that our tears can become a conduit to the divine.

Listen as we explore how suppressed sensitivity can be transformed into a sacred strength—and why empathy just might be the most Christlike virtue of all.

This month, we’re joined by David W. Congdon to discuss his book "Who is a True Christian?". Together we explore how polarized claims about “real” Christianity reveal deep anxiety over religious identity, the ways conservative movements have sought security through doctrine, culture, and politics, and how we might reimagine a more inclusive understanding of Christian faith today.

This book club gathering was recorded on September 4th, 2025.  

To learn more about our community—or to support the work we do—visit us at oceansidesanctuary.org.

Learn more about David W. Congdon and Support his work:
• Order "Who is a True Christian?"
• Check out his Website

From recent evangelical critiques like Allie Beth Stuckey’s Toxic Empathy to Albert Mohler’s claim that empathy “elevates feelings above God’s truth,” the hosts explore why some Christian leaders are suspicious of our shared human capacity to feel and understand one another. Together, Jason and Jenell unpack what empathy really is—both the emotional and cognitive dimensions—and why research shows it’s essential for mental health, civic life, and a just society.

Then, they take a theological turn: looking at Jesus’ tears in John 11, the God who weeps, and the incarnation as the ultimate act of divine empathy. Could it be that when we choose to empathize, we’re actually participating in the very nature of God—becoming more divine?

This episode sets the stage for an entire season of powerful storytelling. Over the next six episodes, you’ll hear real-life journeys of people in our own community who embody empathy in transformative ways—challenging us to listen deeply, believe others’ experiences, and discover empathy as a radical expression of Christian faith.

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts—and join us as we make the case for empathy as the way of Christ.

PS: The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church. Click here to learn more about us and our mission!

In this episode: We revisit key moments from the season and reflect on what they stirred in us. Listener voices take center stage, through voicemails, comments, and deeply personal reflections. We share our thoughts on All the Buried Women, a podcast mini-series that unearthed hidden truths from the Southern Baptist Convention and resonated deeply with our own journeys in faith and leadership.

From sacred stories and hidden histories to courage, grief, and integrity - this finale is a pilgrimage in itself. It’s a love letter to every buried voice that is rising again.

Reflection Questions:

1. What part of this season, or this episode, helped you see your own story - or someone else’s - in a new light?
2. When have you had to choose integrity over harmony? What did that look like for you?
3. Who are the “buried women” in your own life? How might you honor their legacy?

Mentioned in this episode:All the Buried Women by Savannah Locke and Beth Allison Barr: https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com/all-the-buried-women/ 

Women Holding Things by Maira Kalman: https://merrittbooks.com/item/YHsfyCIcKaXSPkjSlxVkdw 

Little Women, dir. by Greta Gerwig

Thank you for walking with us this season. Your presence, your responses, and your courage matter. Season 11 is coming soon - until then, keep listening, keep questioning, and keep showing up with heart.

In our latest episode of The Collective Table Podcast, we hear from Rev. Carol Rawlings - the second woman to pastor at Oceanside Sanctuary - as she shares her story of saying yes to ministry in a time (and a church) that wasn’t sure it wanted her.

With warmth, grit, and wisdom, Carol reflects on how her call to preach collided with real-world resistance - and how, ultimately, the Spirit wouldn’t let her go. It’s a story about surrender - not to patriarchy, but to God.

Hosts Jason, Jenell, and Claire reflect on the broader story that surrounds Carol’s: one of silenced women, erased histories, and the ongoing fight to be seen and heard in sacred spaces. From Apostle Junia to clergywomen today, this episode traces a holy lineage of resistance and resilience.

Questions to Consider:
– How does it make you feel when you hear that the apostle Junia’s name in Romans 16 was changed to a man’s name in the 12th century?
– Can you remember a time when you were treated unfairly because of something about yourself you could not change (e.g., sex, race, nationality, disability)?
– What is giving you hope around the continuing struggle faced by women in our society? Or how do you feel called to subvert patriarchal norms that hold women back?

Further Resources:
Read the 1985 LA Times article about Rev. Carol Rawlings’ appointment and early ministry:
https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1985-09-25-vw-20043-story.html 

Learn more about the erasure of women in church history in When Women Were Priests by Karen Jo Torjesen:
Find it at your local library: https://libraryfinder.org/ 

or purchase online: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/when-women-were-priests-karen-j-torjesen?variant=32154107346978 

Listen to All the Buried Women hosted by Savannah Locke and Beth Allison Barr: https://thebiblefornormalpeople.com/all-the-buried-women/ 

Stay Connected

Contact us at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at 760-722-8522!

The Collective Table is a production of Oceanside Sanctuary Church. Learn more about what we do at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org 

This episode was edited by Niko Butler. 

Lyvonne is a body- and sex-positive womanist spiritualist - writer, preacher, pastor, and prophet. In this episode, she shares with former hosts Chelsea and Dana the deep truths behind her book Sensual Faith: The Art of Coming Home to Your Body. Together, they explore what it means to honor the sacredness of our physical selves, especially in a world that has taught so many of us - especially women and femmes - to distrust or disconnect from our bodies.

This episode speaks directly to the heart of 50.5%: What does it look like to become whole again when the world - and sometimes even our faith traditions - have split our very selves apart? Lyvonne offers a theology rooted in freedom, pleasure, and coming home to yourself.

Content Note: This conversation includes mature language as well as themes of sex and sensuality. Listener discretion is advised, particularly for younger audiences.

Learn more about Lyvonne’s powerful work: https://lyvonnep.com/
Support her on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/join/lyvonnep

In today’s episode, Jenell & Jason wrestle with tough questions about who truly owns “the table” in our churches and communities, how historical narratives continue to shape power dynamics today, and why simply inviting people in isn't the same as sharing power. Rev. Hord Owens also challenges us to confront the allure of oppressive power structures, calling Christians to practice real, transformative leadership rooted in justice and humility.

Along the way, we also take a closer look at the history of our own tradition, from early figures like Barton Stone and Alexander Campbell, to hidden stories of hope like Sarah Lue Bostick and the continuing legacy of Black Disciples. We also reflect on how true change demands honesty about the past and courageous action in the present.

Questions to Consider:

1. Where are you finding truly “collective tables” or spaces that share power? How is that helping you to grow as a follower of Christ?
   
   
2. How might being honest about your own history help you to reckon with the past and move forward toward a better future, for yourself, your family, or your community?
   
   
3. What ideas, or institutions, or people do you need to be ready to say “Go in grace” to in order to be made whole and remain faithful to your deepest commitments?

Further Reading:

• Rev. Terri Hord Owens: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teresa_Hord_Owens
  
  
• Barton Stone: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/stone-barton-warren-1772-1844/
  
  
• Alexander Campbell: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/alexander-campbell/
  
  
• Preston Taylor: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/preston-taylor/
  
  
• Sarah Lue Bostick: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/sarah-lue-bostick/
  
  
• African Americans in the Movement: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/african-americans-in-the-movement/
  
  
• Christian Woman’s Board of Missions: https://discipleshistory.org/wiki/christian-womans-board-of-missions/
  
  

Stay Connected: Contact us at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at 760-722-8522!

The Collective Table is a production of Oceanside Sanctuary Church. Learn more about what we do at  www.oceansidesanctuary.org

This episode was edited in collaboration by Niko Butler and Claire Watson. 

Together, we discuss:

• The challenges and joys of her historic leadership role

• How race and gender intersect in the expectations placed on women in ministry

• The ways faith communities can move beyond tokenism toward true justice and inclusion

• Her perspective on leadership that embraces authenticity rather than conforming to traditional molds

We also reflect on the broader implications of her leadership and how it invites us all to reimagine the church as a space of radical welcome and wholeness.

Pre-Order Her Book: Staying at the Table: Being the Church We Say We Are - https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/staying-at-the-table-terri-hord-owens/1146959617 

Discussion Questions:

1. How have your perceptions of leadership in the church been shaped by race and gender?

2. Have you ever felt pressured to fit into a particular “costume” or mold to be accepted in a faith space?

3. How can you commit to listening and learning from a more diverse set of voices in your faith journey?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts with us!

️ The Collective Table Podcast is a production of Oceanside Sanctuary, a progressive and affirming church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality. Learn more about us at https://oceansidesanctuary.org.

Get in Touch: Email us at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org or leave a voicemail at 760-722-8522.

For those who may not know, Rev. Dr. Wil Gafney is a renowned biblical scholar, Episcopal priest, and professor of Hebrew Bible at Brite Divinity School. She’s a leading voice in womanist biblical interpretation, a perspective that highlights the voices of women and marginalized people in Scripture. She’s the author of Womanist Midrash and A Women’s Lectionary for the Whole Church, both of which reimagine how the Bible is read and preached through a justice-centered lens.

We had an incredible time learning from Dr. Gafney, and we hope this full-length conversation gives you even more insight into her work and wisdom. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), settle in, and nerd out with us as we explore Scripture in a new but deeply rooted way.

Find more about Dr. Wil Gafney and her work at wilgafney.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!

Book Giveaway! Be one of the first 20 listeners to call or email us about why the Divine Feminine is important to you, and you’ll receive a free copy of Dear Mama God! Just fill out a quick form—we’ll send it to you once we hear from you via email or voicemail—and choose to either pay for shipping or pick up your book in person.

Explore More from Daneen Akers:

• Daneen’s Recommended Book List: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nhYhZ61t3C79ZXGvpcklf-aPMy79PDSG/view?usp=sharing. 
• Daneen’s Website: https://www.dearmamagod.com/ 

Get in Touch:
Email: tct@oceansidesanctuary.org
Leave us a voicemail: (760) 722-8522 (you might be featured in a future episode!)
Learn more about The Collective Table and Oceanside Sanctuary at oceansidesanctuary.org

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

Book Giveaway! Be one of the first 20 listeners to call or email us about why the Divine Feminine is important to you, and you’ll receive a free copy of Dear Mama God! Just fill out a quick form—we’ll send it to you once we hear from you via email or voicemail—and choose to either pay for shipping or pick up your book in person.

Explore More from Daneen Akers:

• Daneen’s Recommended Book List: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nhYhZ61t3C79ZXGvpcklf-aPMy79PDSG/view?usp=sharing. 
• Daneen’s Website: https://www.dearmamagod.com/.  

Get in Touch:
Email: tct@oceansidesanctuary.org
Leave us a voicemail: (760) 722-8522 (you might be featured in a future episode!)
Learn more about The Collective Table and Oceanside Sanctuary at oceansidesanctuary.org

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!

This week, Claire and Jason continue our conversation with the brilliant Rev. Dr. Wil Gafney in part two of our discussion. If you haven’t listened to part one yet, we highly recommend starting there before diving into today’s episode!

Dr. Gafney is a renowned biblical scholar, theologian, and author. In this episode, we explore the “monstrosity” of God, the erasure of women in archaeological records, and more. 

Learn more about Dr. Wil Gafney and her work at wilgafney.com.

During our conversation, Jason briefly mentions the title, Trickster Makes This World by Lewis Hyde. You can find the book at https://lewishyde.com/trickster/ 

Questions for reflection:

• What stories in the Bible feel “monstrous” to you?
• How might you move beyond the text in your interpretation as a faithful follower of Christ?
• How have real-life examples of women’s leadership inspired and empowered you?

This week, we are thrilled to bring you part one of our conversation with the brilliant Rev. Dr. Wil Gafney, renowned biblical scholar, theologian, and author. Dr. Gafney invites us to explore the transformative practice of reading Scripture with a sanctified imagination—a way of engaging the Bible that challenges patriarchal and colonial interpretations while uncovering the richness of diverse perspectives.

In this episode, Claire and Jason begin to unpack how this approach reshapes our understanding of God, ourselves, and the world around us. Dr. Gafney’s wisdom will inspire you to see the Bible not as a static text but as a living, dynamic invitation to empathy, justice, and connection.

Don’t miss part two of this conversation, coming out February 17, where we dive even deeper into her work and insights.

Find more about Dr. Wil Gafney and her work at wilgafney.com.

Some questions to consider after listening: 

• How have you noticed or experienced the marginalizing of women’s voices and perspectives in the church?
• How do you feel your body responding to Dr. Gafney's statement that, “If it’s not good for the black woman, it’s not good for anyone”?
• How does the idea of interpreting scripture through a “sanctified imagination” or employing Jewish midrash differ from what you have been taught?

This week marked a special gathering for OSC as we celebrated Martin Luther King Jr. Day and explored what it means to be an anti-racist church. Our special guest was local artist and justice worker Kendrick Dial. Learn more about Kendrick at https://kendrickdial.com/.

This conversation was recorded on Sunday, January 19th, 2025 at The Oceanside Sanctuary Church (OSC) in Oceanside, CA. To learn more about our community or to support the work we do, visit us at https://oceansidesanctuary.org. 

For week 4 of Advent, our focus is love. Today's reflection is entitled "Love in Relationships" and is based around the scripture found in John 13:34. 

For week 4 of Advent, our focus is love. Today's reflection is entitled "Created to Love" and is based around the scripture found in 1 John 4:19. 

For week 3 of Advent, our focus is "joy". Today's reflection is entitled "Joy in God's Faithfulness" and is based around the scripture found in Psalm 118:24. 

The Collective Table Podcast is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church. Learn more about our community at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

For week 2 of Advent, our focus is "peace". Today's reflection is entitled "Sleep and Eat Some Cake" and is based around the scripture found in Matthew 11:28.

For week 2 of Advent, our focus is "peace". Today's reflection is entitled "Be Still" and is based around the scripture found in Psalm 46:10. 

For week 2 of Advent, our focus is "peace". Today's reflection is entitled "Letting Go of Control to Find Peace" and is based around the scripture found in John 14:27. 

Read about Zentangles here: https://zentangle.com/pages/what-is-the-zentangle-method?srsltid=AfmBOooSoTv0v4QZLvtdjc2L6WbOxTLYY49D3MuCgCV2wSpAPYm0ux4b. 

For week 2 of Advent, our focus is "peace". Today's reflection is entitled "Seeking God's Peace in Troubled Times" and is based around the scripture found in Romans 1:20. 

For week 2 of Advent, our focus is "peace". Today's reflection is entitled "Peace as Presence" and is based around the scripture found in Philippians 4:7. 

For week 1 of Advent, our focus is "hope". Today's reflection is entitled "Hope for a Future" and is based around the scripture found in Jeremiah 29:11. 

For week 1 of Advent, our focus is "hope". Today's reflection is entitled "Hope in God-With-Us" and is based around the scripture found in Matthew 1:23. 

For week 1 of Advent, our focus is "hope". Today's reflection is entitled "Hope in God's Unfolding Plan" and is based around the scripture found in Galatians 4:4. 

For week 1 of Advent, our focus is "hope". Today's reflection is entitled "Hope in the Darkness" and is based around the scripture found in John 1:5. 

For week 1 of Advent, our focus is "hope". Today's reflection is entitled "Hope in God's Promises" and is based around the scripture found in Isaiah 9:6-7.

In this week’s episode, Claire and Jason listen back to a conversation with Rabbi Sharon Brous, who draws from Arendt’s ideas that loneliness and social isolation are essentially preconditions for totalitarianism. Together, they explore the crisis of loneliness, as well as rituals and practices which go against a current of individualism and competition.

Reflective Questions for Listeners:

• How do you see loneliness and social isolation contributing to extremist movements in our communities, country, and world? 
• Who or what in your life is focused on connection, support, and working together? How does this push back against the culture of individualism, power struggles, and competition?  
• What rituals challenge you to look someone in the eye and ask, what happened to you?

To hear the full original interview with Rabbi Brous, visit our archive here: https://the-collective-table.castos.com/episodes/rabbi-sharon-brous-the-amen-effect

Learn about KC Tenants here: https://kctenants.org/ 

Thank you for being a part of season 9! This season may be over but we have some incredible episodes coming your way soon, starting with Advent and moving into 2025. So don’t be a stranger, we will see you soon!

In the meantime, we want you to join the conversation. Leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and let us know what is on your mind. You can also send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org. Thank you for listening and we hope to hear from you soon! 

As the nation heads to the polls today—November 5th, 2024—we offer these words to you, our listeners, as a source of strength and peace. In times of division and uncertainty, it is our hope that these reflections serve as a reminder of our shared humanity and our deep yearning for a future rooted in compassion, justice, and understanding.

Whether you approach this week with hope, apprehension, or even lament, may these moments from our vigil hold space for all that you carry. Join us as we listen, reflect, and, together, hold a vision of a world made whole.

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive Christian community rooted in inclusivity, inspiration, and the peace and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org/. We would love to hear from you. Reach out at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522. You may even be featured in a future episode.

Guided by Valarie's words from the 2022 book club discussion and her 2017 TED Talk, today’s conversation explores Valarie’s approach to love as a labor that is "fierce, bloody, imperfect, life-giving." Jenell and Claire choose three transformative themes from Kaur's work, offering reflections on listening with wonder, laboring within privileged spaces, and learning to care for ourselves in the process.

Reflective Questions for Listeners:

• Has anyone with differing views listened to your story with empathy and wonder? 
• This episode discusses roles in the labor of revolutionary love. Do you have a sense of your role in this work?
• What practices help you to stay grounded and ready to engage with others’ stories compassionately?

To hear the full original interview with Valarie Kaur, visit our archive here: https://the-collective-table.castos.com/episodes/valarie-kaur-see-no-stranger 

We'd love to hear from you! Reach out at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522. You may even be featured in a future episode.

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive Christian community rooted in inclusivity, inspiration, and the peace and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org/.

Listen back to the full interview with Cole here: https://the-collective-table.castos.com/episodes/cole-arthur-riley-black-liturgies?_gl=1*wnlsb2*_gcl_aw*R0NMLjE3MjE2ODMyMTMuQ2p3S0NBandodmkwQmhBNEVpd0FYMjV1ajdoaGkwcmFhbXprVHZQR1k5VmtGbWtTaGFHNm91MV9yMUhvZ1kzYWtwQ3VDMVg3VjltUDdCb0NWeHdRQXZEX0J3RQ..*_gcl_au*ODQ3MTc4MjUzLjE3MjE2ODMyMTM. 

As you listen, we encourage you to think about these questions:

• How are you learning to sit with the tension of doubt and uncertainty?
• Who are the “wisdom giants” that have opened your faith to new possibilities?
• What identities, practices, and people give you a sense of rootedness?

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

Listen back to the full interview with Rob here: https://www.thecollectivetable.org/podcast/robbell 

As you listen, we encourage you to think about these questions:

• In your life of faith, how has doubt been helpful or hurtful to you?
• Is there a mystery in your life that you’ve worked to know endlessly?
• What doubts and truths within your faith are you sitting with now?

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

Throughout the episode, Jason and Jenell reference several works by James Fowler. Read more here: Becoming Adult, Becoming Christian: Adult Development & Christian Faith by James Fowler and Stages of Faith: The Psychology of Human Development and the Quest For Meaning by James Fowler. 

Using Brian’s framework of ideas, Jason and Claire explore the themes of cultural fragmentation, hybridization, and the opportunities that arise from cultural shifts. McLaren discusses how living in a fragmenting world can be seen not only as destructive but also as a moment of possibility, where mutation and hybridity create something new. This conversation highlights the importance of befriending multiplicity,  and the freedom that can emerge when diverse expressions of Christianity and culture evolve and intersect.

Listen back to the full interview with Brian here: https://www.thecollectivetable.org/virtualqa/brianmclaren 

As you listen, we encourage you to think about these questions:

• How could you experience faith as a more liberating part of your life?
• How has your faith been hybridized in new ways throughout your life?
• Have you ever found yourself saying, “I’m a Christian, but not that kind of Christian.”? How have you explained that, if at all? 
• How can your faith help you navigate the tension between giving others the freedom to be different while also allowing you to take a stand on issues you care about most?

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a progressive and affirming Christian platform for those who want to follow Jesus, work for justice, and celebrate joy! Learn more at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.   

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

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In this episode, Jason references Oneness Pentecostalism as an example of hybridized doctrine developing out of specific contexts. We would like to credit Kenneth Gill and his work in intercultural theology for inspiring this portion of the conversation. You can read more here: Gill, Kenneth D. 1992. “The Oneness Doctrine as a Contextualized Doctrine of the Trinity for Mexico” in Pentecost, Mission, and Ecumenism Essays on Intercultural Theology edited by Jan A.B. Jongeneel. Frankfurt: Peter Lang.

Listen back to the full interview with Nadia here: https://www.thecollectivetable.org/podcast/nadiabolz-weber. 

Questions to consider: 

• When was a time when you felt seen?
• What messages of perfection keep you from being vulnerable with yourself and others?
• How have you witnessed fear playing a negative role in the public sphere? 

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a progressive and affirming Christian platform for those who want to follow Jesus, work for justice, and celebrate joy! Learn more at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.   

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a progressive and affirming Christian platform for those who want to follow Jesus, work for justice, and celebrate joy! Learn more at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.   

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

We would love to hear from you! Send us an email at tct@oceansidesanctuary.org, or leave us a voicemail at (760) 722-8522 and you may be featured on a future episode. 

The Collective Table is a progressive and affirming Christian platform for those who want to follow Jesus, work for justice, and celebrate joy! Learn more at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.   

The Collective Table is a production of The Oceanside Sanctuary Church, a progressive church community committed to inclusive, inspiring, and impactful Christian spirituality and rooted in the love, peace, and justice of Christ. Learn more at https://www.oceansidesanctuary.org.

Jonathan Merritt is one of America’s most popular writers on issues of faith and culture. He is author of several critically-acclaimed books, including Learning to Speak God from Scratch: Why Sacred Words are Vanishing - and How We Can Revive Them, named “Book of the Year” by the Englewood Review of Books. He is also a regular contributor to The Atlantic, Religion News Service, and The Week. 

Discover more about Jonathan at https://www.jonathanmerritt.com/ 

X: https://x.com/jonathanmerritt

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JonathanMerrittWriter/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonathan_merritt/

Seekers & Speakers Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/seekers-speakers/id1423339325?mt=2 

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.collective.table/ 

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at https://podswithclaire.com.

Learn more about Rabbi Sharon here: https://ikar.org/team/rabbi-sharon-brous/ 

Follow Rabbi Sharon on social media:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sharonbrous/?hl=en 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RabbiSharonBrous/ 

X: https://twitter.com/sharonbrous?lang=en 

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@sharonbrous 

Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@weareikar 

Learn more and purchase her book here: https://ikar.org/the-amen-effect/ 

Rabbi Sharon’s TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/sharon_brous_it_s_time_to_reclaim_religion?language=en 

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.collective.table/ 

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at https://www.thecollectivetable.org 

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at https://podswithclaire.com 

Discover more about Trey and his impactful work at https://www.pastortrey05.com/

For a closer look at Trey’s ministry and work, follow him @PastorTrey05 on socials: https://www.instagram.com/pastortrey05/?hl=en

https://www.tiktok.com/@pastortrey05

https://twitter.com/pastortrey05

https://www.facebook.com/realpastortrey05

Purchase the book, shop merch, follow Trey's podcasts, and more at https://linktr.ee/pastortrey05

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the.collective.table/

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at https://www.thecollectivetable.org.

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at https://podswithclaire.com. 

*Episode note: This is an important, necessary, and faithful conversation - that being said, sex and sensuality are heavily discussed and may not be appropriate for all listeners (especially children). Please exercise discretion when listening. 

Discover more about Lyvonne Briggs and her impactful work at: https://lyvonnep.com/

Support Lyvonne on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/join/lyvonnep 

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: @the.collective.table.

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at www.thecollectivetable.org.

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at podswithclaire.com. 

Discover more about Debie and her impactful work at debiethomas.com. 

For a closer look at Debie's journey and insights, follow her on Instagram: @debiethomas1 

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: @the_collective_table.

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at www.thecollectivetable.org.

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at podswithclaire.com. 

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Discover more about Debie and her impactful work at debiethomas.com. 

For a closer look at Debie's journey and insights, follow her on Instagram: @debiethomas1 

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: @the_collective_table.

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at www.thecollectivetable.org.

Discover more about Amy Kenny and her impactful work at amy-kenny.com.

For a closer look at Amy's journey and insights, follow her on Instagram: @dramykenny.

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: @the_collective_table.

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at www.thecollectivetable.org.

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at podswithclaire.com.

Learn more about Mark here: https://www.markfeldmeir.com/ 

Follow The Collective Table on Instagram @the_collective_table

Learn more about the work of The Collective Table at www.thecollectivetable.org

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at podswithclaire.com

Learn more about Danté here: https://www.dantecstewart.com/

Follow Danté on Instagram @stewartdantec

Read Danté’s recent ESPN work here: https://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/38713424/forever-friday-night-haunted-true-story-my-broken-football-dreams

Follow The Collective Table on Instagram @the_collective_table

Learn more about the work of The Collective Table at www.thecollectivetable.org 

Episode edited by Claire Watson. Learn more at podswithclaire.com

In Where We Meet: A Lenten Study of System, Stories, and Hope , four members of the Intersect network (Rachel Gilmore, Tyler Sit, Candace Lewis, and Matt Temple) invite you to immerse yourself in the stories of Jesus and the early church. Together, they also explore their own stories, examine past shortcomings of the church, address difficult questions, and envision a brighter future that better reflects the good news of Jesus.

Learn more about Intersect at intersectnetwork.co and on their Instagram @intersectnetwork 

Purchase a copy of the book study here: https://www.amazon.com/Where-We-Meet-Systems-Stories/dp/0835820483#:~:text=Throughout%20the%20Lenten%20season%2C%20Rachel,of%20the%20post%2Dcolonial%20church.

Stay connected with The Collective Table on Instagram: @the_collective_table.

Explore the mission of The Collective Table further at www.thecollectivetable.org.

Learn more about Kat here: https://katarmas.com/ 

Follow Kat on Instagram @kat_armas

Follow The Collective Table on Instagram @the_collective_table

Learn more about the work of The Collective Table at www.thecollectivetable.org

Cole is also the creator of Black Liturgies, a space that integrates spiritual practice with Black emotion, Black literature, and the Black body; and a project of The Center for Dignity and Contemplation where she serves as Curator. Learn more about Cole and her work at https://colearthurriley.com/.

Follow The Collective Table on Instagram @the_collective_table

Learn more about the work of The Collective Table at www.thecollectivetable.org. 

Support Christena on Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/cscleve  Learn more about her work here: http://www.christenacleveland.com/

This virtual Q&A with author Dr. Christena Cleveland was recorded on Wednesday, June 28th at 3:30pm.

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

Today’s episode features Jacqui Lewis, who talks with Dana and Chelsea about Easter! Listen to Jacqui’s powerful sermon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3Ka-s-2CBw 

The Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis uses her gifts as author, activist, preacher, and public theologian toward creating an antiracist, just, gun violence free, fully welcoming, gender affirming society in which everyone has enough. After graduating with an M.Div. from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1992, Jacqui fell in love with urban ministry, leading two churches in Trenton, New Jersey. Fascinated with how faith heals the soul—so we can heal the world—she returned to graduate school, for a Ph.D. in Religion and Society: Psychology and Religion from Drew University (2004). Jacqui came to study Middle Church, received a call, and joined the staff in January 2004. Middle is the church of her dreams and prayers, a multiethnic rainbow coalition of love, justice, and worship that rocks her soul.

Check out Jacqui’s new book, Fierce Love: https://jacquilewis.com/fierce-love/ 

“This Here Flesh” by Cole Arthur Riley: https://colearthurriley.com/writing/book 

TCT’s interview with Author Cole Arthur Riley: https://youtu.be/2AW0WjsXe30 

Learn more about The Collective Table: https://www.thecollectivetable.org/ 

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

Today’s episode features Lisa Sharon Harper, who talks with Dana and Chelsea about Good Friday. Listen to Lisa’s Sermon here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nkKJ7HyQEsw

Lisa is a prolific speaker, writer and activist. She is the founder and president of FreedomRoad, a consulting group dedicated to shrinking the narrative gap in our nation by designing forums and experiences that bring common understanding, common commitment and common action.

Lisa writes extensively on shalom and governance, immigration reform, health care reform, poverty, racial and gender justice, climate change, and transformational civic engagement. Her most recent book entitled The Very Good Gospel, explores God’s intent for the wholeness of all relationships in light of today’s headlines.

Find Lisa's new book, Fortune, here: https://lisasharonharper.com/books-articles/ 

Check out The Collective Table at https://www.thecollectivetable.org/

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

Today, Chelsea & Claire sit down with Rev. Jonah Overton to talk about a sermon they gave on Palm Sunday. Rev. Jonah P. Overton (they/them) is a queer and trans community organizer, and the lead pastor and planter of Zao MKE Church. Zao started in their living room before it grew into a local theater, and now resides in a historic church building on the East Side of Milwaukee.

Jonah loves being part of a church that is being recreated and reimagined by people who were historically denied access to traditional Christian leadership. Their favorite thing about Zao MKE Church is experiencing what church looks like when those of us who were left out get to be in charge. Jonah is extremely passionate about the Bible and reclaiming Christian scriptures for liberation and for the Kingdom. They are so passionate that they started two podcasts: Jonah & the Peacock and Christian Queeries. In Jonah & the Peacock, Jonah interviews others about their relationship to faith and scripture, retelling the texts through a more inclusive and trauma-informed lens. Christian Queeries is a podcast that Jonah and Cameron have together where they answer listener questions about Christianity.

Jonah has been married to Cameron since 2018 and recently became Baba to their 1-year-old daughter Micah. Jonah’s free time is currently filled with fantasizing about paddle boarding and reading, instead of actually having the time and energy to do it.

Listen to Jonah's full sermon here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dzsyQerlzdHHBCvJB0O5ginJfl6B_3Ct/view 

Listen to Cameron’s episode of our podcast here: https://www.thecollectivetable.org/podcast/cameron-malakai

Learn more about Zao MKE Church & Jonah’s other podcasts here: https://www.zaomke.org/

The Last Week book: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Week-Gospels-Really-Jerusalem/dp/0060872608 

This conversation was recorded on Wednesday, March 22, 2023. 

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

On today's episode, Rev. Chelsea & Rev. Claire are joined by Rev. Denyse Barnes to discuss a sermon she gave during Lent last year. You can listen to or read her sermon here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/9dcJKTx/DenyseTCT

Rev. Denyse Barnes is the Director of Justice and Compassion Ministries at the California-Pacific Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. She holds a degree in Electronics and Telecommunications from Coventry Technical College in the United Kingdom and a Master of Divinity from Claremont School of Theology. She married Deborah Levinson on Aug. 1, 2020 and, when not working, can be found with her dogs, Sheldon, Jiminy and Mozzie at the beach or in the park.

Purchase the Queer Bible Commentary that Denyse recommends here: https://www.wjkbooks.com/Products/9780334060789/the-queer-bible-commentary-second-edition.aspx 

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

On today's episode, Dana & Rev. Claire are joined by Alma Tinoco-Ruiz to discuss a sermon she gave on Lent, Jesus, wounds, and healing. You can listen to or read her sermon here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/cu/JpiI2Ge/AlmaTCT 

Professor Tinoco Ruiz is a practical theologian whose work centers on the intersection of homiletics, pastoral care, and evangelism. Throughout her ministry, she has witnessed that most preachers are poorly equipped to respond to the traumatic injuries marginalized and oppressed communities experience. In contrast, she sees in the sermons of Saint Óscar Romero a profound response to the traumatic injuries the marginalized and oppressed people of El Salvador were experiencing during the years he was the archbishop of San Salvador (1977-1980). Influenced by Saint Romero’s preaching, Professor Tinoco Ruiz is exploring how preachers can effectively address the trauma experienced by marginalized and oppressed communities, particularly the community of undocumented immigrants from Latin America in the United States. She completed her Th.D. thesis on "Óscar Romero's Theological, Hermeneutical, and Pastoral Framework for Preaching to Traumatized Communities." Her publications include essays in the International Journal of Homiletics, Predicación con Impacto: Preparación y Presentación de Mensajes Bíblicos, The Christian Century, and Duke Divinity School’s DIVINITY magazine. Professor Tinoco Ruiz was awarded the Denman Fellow of the Foundation for Evangelism (FFE) in 2016, the Forum for Theological Exploration (FTE) Doctoral Fellowship in 2019, and the Hispanic Theological Initiative (HTI)/Lilly fellowship in 2020. She is an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church.

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

On today's episode, Dana & Rev. Claire are joined by Rev. Dr. Faith Conklin to discuss a sermon she gave on Ash Wednesday. Listen to Rev. Faith's sermon here (begins at 22:57): https://vimeo.com/682555676

Rev. Faith attended the School of Theology at Claremont, CA and earned a Master of Religion degree in 1970 and a Dr. of Religion in 1971. Rev. Faith was the first woman from Cal-Pac to be ordained an elder. She has served the UMC at local, district and national levels on several boards and agencies. She was a delegate to three General and Jurisdictional Conferences. As you will see Rev. Faith is a powerful preacher, wise teacher and compassionate leader. 

Want to join one of our online lenten studies or in-person experiences? Find more information at thecollectivetable.org. 

During this season Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire are going to interview some of our favorite preachers about a sermon they have given. These sermons will be following the lectionary calendar from Epiphany all the way until Easter. In the various episodes, not only will you hear clips from the sermon and you will also hear the follow-up conversation with the preacher!

On today's episode, Dana & Rev. Chelsea are joined by Brent Ross to discuss a sermon he gave on Baptism. Listen to Brent's sermon here: https://nhunited.org/baptism/

Brent Ross is the lead pastor at Normal Heights United Church in San Diego, CA. Normal Heights United Church is a progressive church in the heart of the neighborhood of Normal Heights and they are preparing to celebrate their building’s 100 year anniversary. When he’s not preaching, reading graphic novels or working in the yard, Brent is planning for his escargot business he will launch when he retires!

Today, we celebrate the coming of Christ - God-With-Us, Emmanuel - on Christmas Day. Listen as Chelsea reflects on the Christmas story.

Watch Chelsea's favorite Eat N' Park Christmas commercial here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P3NhDtfZmd0 

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Learn more about the history of Advent at the links below: 

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-do-the-candles-in-our-advent-wreath-mean

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-history-of-advent-for-united-methodists

In today's episode, Dana reflects on peace, and offers a moment of meditation for our listeners. 

Learn more about the history of Advent at the links below: 

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-do-the-candles-in-our-advent-wreath-mean

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-history-of-advent-for-united-methodists

In a world that's difficult to make sense of, and a season that's so often overtaken by consumerism, here you'll find heart-stirring illustrations and thought-provoking meditations designed to show you the raw, powerfully sacred story of Christmas in a new light.

From celebrated artist and storyteller Scott Erickson comes Honest Advent, 25 days of illustrations and meditations that will help you rekindle the wonder of this season. Honest Advent creates a space for you to encounter the Incarnate Christ in unexpected places: like a pregnancy announcement in an era of political unrest and empirical bloodshed, the morning sickness of a Middle Eastern teenager, and the shocking biology of birth that goes far beyond the sanitized brand of Christmas as we know it today.

Through powerful benedictions, prayers, and questions for honest reflection, you'll discover how the wonder of God-with-Us is still happening today: in your unexpected change of plans, your unaccomplished dreams, your overcrowded lodging, and your humble stories of new beginnings.

If you're looking for something to spark your faith and renew your relationship with the holiday season, Erickson invites you to experience a new way to celebrate this Christmas.

Keep up with Scott on Instagram @scottthepainter

This is a recording of our live Q&A which took place on December 15th, 2022. 

In today's episode, Dana reflects on Joy. 

Learn more about the history of Advent at the links below: 

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-do-the-candles-in-our-advent-wreath-mean

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-history-of-advent-for-united-methodists

In today's episode, Claire reflects on Love. 

Learn more about the history of Advent at the links below: 

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-do-the-candles-in-our-advent-wreath-mean

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-history-of-advent-for-united-methodists

This is a recording of our book club's virtual Q&A session with Brian, recorded on November 30, 2022. Enjoy!

In today's episode, Chelsea reflects on Hope. 

Learn more about the history of Advent at the links below: 

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-do-the-candles-in-our-advent-wreath-mean

https://www.umc.org/en/content/ask-the-umc-what-is-the-history-of-advent-for-united-methodists

In today's episode, Dana tackles the parable of the Rich Man & Lazarus, found in Luke 16:19-31. Listen as she reflects on what it means to choose a life not of self-centered indifference, but of inclusivity, joy, and and openness. 

Follow us on instagram @The.Collective.Table, and check out our website at thecollectivetable.org! 

On today’s episode, Claire gets into the weeds as she shares her take on Matthew chapter 13, the parable of the weeds and the wheat. Maybe you have heard this parable preached in a way that is supposed to scare you out of hell - but we hope you come away from this podcast knowing that actually, Jesus is painting a picture of our loving creator who will dig deep enough to uproot the lies that tell us that we are not worthy of love. So get out your gardening tools and let’s dig! 

Follow us on instagram @The.Collective.Table, and check out our website at thecollectivetable.org! 

How do we love in a time of rage? How do we fix a broken world while not breaking ourselves? Valarie Kaur—renowned Sikh activist, filmmaker, and civil rights lawyer—describes revolutionary love as the call of our time, a radical, joyful practice that extends in three directions: to others, to our opponents, and to ourselves.

In this episode, Claire explores Luke 12:13-21, otherwise known as the parable of the Rich Fool. But shouldn't we just call it the parable of the really lonely guy? Listen in as Rev. Claire unpacks what this parable has to say about greed, wealth, and loneliness. 

Follow us on instagram @The.Collective.Table, and check out our website at thecollectivetable.org! 

In this week's sermon, Chelsea explores Jesus' parable found in Luke 10:25-37, otherwise known as the Parable of the Good Samaritan. 

Imagine for a moment what the world might look like if we as people of faith, morality, and conscience actually aspired to this mantra. What if we were fully burdened to create a world that was more loving and equitable than when we arrived? What if we invited one another to share in wide-open, fearless, spiritual communities truly marked by compassion and interdependence? What if we daily challenged ourselves to live a faith that simply made us better humans? John Pavlovitz explores how we can embody this kinder kind of spirituality where we humbly examine our belief system to understand how it might compel us to act in less-than-loving ways toward others.

This conversation was recorded on September 28th, 2022.

In this week's sermon, Chelsea explores Jesus' parable found in Matthew 20:1-16, which is typically called the Parable of the Workers in the Field. But Chelsea likes to call it the Parable of the Generous Landowner. She hopes you'll see why by the end of this episode! 

In today's episode, Dana shares a sermon on Luke 15, a collection of three parables: the parable of the lost sheep, the parable of the lost coin, and the parable of the lost son, or the prodigal son. 

Semler is a queer-identifying musical artist whose songs have topped the charts in the Christian music world. Their new album, Stages of a Breakdown, is available now. Follow them on Instagram @gracebaldridge. 

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Royce Lovett is a singer songwriter who has been signed to Motown Gospel Records. In 2016, Royce released his ‘Love Wins’ EP, followed by his ‘Love & Other Dreams’ album in 2017. Royce has also given a TED Talk. In 2019, Royce got an opportunity to be a contestant on Season 17 of the ‘Voice.’ Learn more about Royce on his website: https://www.roycelovett.com/

Support Royce on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/join/roycelovett

Want to be a part of The Collective Table? Visit us at thecollectivetable.org and follow us on Instagram @the.collective.table 

Drawing on indie pop and gospel influences, The Many makes music to help give voice to faith and doubt, questions and fears, laments and longings, music that speaks to a non-violent God, a Jesus who is with us and for us, and to a Spirit that can't be easily defined or controlled. It's music for a movement of resistance to hatred and division, for reconciliation and restoration, and music that always reminds us "we are on this earth to love." 

Learn more about The Many at https://www.themanyarehere.com/, and the BTS Center at https://thebtscenter.org/ 

Want to be a part of The Collective Table? Visit us at thecollectivetable.org and follow us on Instagram @the.collective.table 

Joey Pearson is soulful singer and songwriter from southern Georgia, raised in southern California, and educated in Washington, D.C. Raised in the Baptist church, Joey combines R&B, pop, and gospel into a unique style influenced by the music of Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Celine Dion, Mariah Carey, and Elton John.

Joey's songwriting includes themes of love, acceptance, justice, community. ​As a child, Joey was a semifinalist on CBS Star Search. His music took a pivotal turn though his involvement in the Georgetown University Gospel Choir. He continues to sing at his local church in California where he directs the band and writes music for the progressive Christian movement. The lyrics of his songs encompass a larger call to action to fight for equality and inclusion through community action. Joey's music brings people together in love and action. He writes anthemic songs that stick with listeners through the hard work of building community and disrupting systems of oppression.

Follow Joey on Instagram, @joeypearson

Want to learn more about The Collective Table? Give us an Instagram follow @the.collective.table or check out our website at thecollectivetable.org. 

Andy is a North Carolina-based singer-songwriter, poet, pastor, and worship leader. His ongoing wrestling match with the creator of the universe is the thematic motivation in his music. He loves David Byrne, David Lynch and bass fishing.

Follow Andy on Instagram at @andysquyres and learn more at https://andysquyres.com/. 

Want to be a part of The Collective Table? Visit us at thecollectivetable.org and follow us on Instagram @the.collective.table

In 2015, Niiella, born Daniella Dankwah-Coffie, emerged as the first runner-up of the Stars of the Future music reality show in Ghana. She is a 2013 4syte Gospel Music Video of the Year nominee, and the author of 2015’s Beautiful EP and 2017's Shades of Mercy LP. She is also the VGMA Best Female Vocalist Of The Year 2022, a BET Sunday Best X Top 10 Finalist, and is a self-proclaimed "part-time comedian". 

Follow Niiella on Instagram @niiella_official 

Want to keep up with The Collective Table? Visit us at thecollectivetable.org or follow us on Instagram at @the.collective.table 

Listen to I'll Sing a Praise to You here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eU2OjstttBo

Cameron is a social worker and the lay worship pastor of Zao MKE Church. As a young, black, queer and trans person, Cameron's ministry calling is to build the church into intersectional and queer liberated space. As Zao’s worship pastor, Cameron incorporates many styles of music into worship, so that all feel welcome (this just might include Lizzo’s new hit single!). Cameron is deeply convinced that when words fail, music speaks and brings people together.

You can find Cameron cooking large dinners for his friends, walking by the lake, playing drums in his jazz rock band, or hanging in leftist political spaces trying to break down oppressive systems.

Follow Cameron on Instagram @cameronmalakaio

Learn more about The Collective Table at https://www.thecollectivetable.org/. 

Much of Western Christianity has subdued the narrative of Jesus as a Palestinian Jewish healer and liberator who served the sick and oppressed. But the Jesus of the Gospels is a revolutionary who stands with the sinned against, the wounded, and the marginalized. In Jesus of the East, author Phuc Luu re-narrates the life of Jesus to show how he made it his work to topple systems that privileged the few and disregarded the many, especially the poor and lowest. For those living in the land between pain and hope, Luu's prophetic words will renew our imaginations and draw us closer to the heart of God.

Listen to Side By Side here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tm1Ha_eyJrI 

Wilder Adkins’ songwriting gleans as much from the earthy poetry of Wendell Berry and Mary Oliver as it does from the works of folk luminaries Richard Thompson and Bruce Cockburn. He’s a true theosophical spirit, arrestingly taciturn, but possessed of startling guitar skills, a wit as dry as October leaves, and a tremulous, dented voice that’s frankly mesmerizing. Adkins hails from Marietta, GA, but now lives and writes in Birmingham, AL. He grew up listening to his dad play renditions of Neil Young and Van Morrison songs on an old Guild Jumbo Acoustic. Some time spent in India helped to expand his melodic sense and also provided a chance to learn Hindi. Adkins’ songs, steeped in natural imagery, frequently touch upon the subjects of faith, doubt, and as the title of his new album would indicate, hope and sorrow. 

To learn more about Wilder, visit his website, https://wilderadkins.com

To learn more about The Collective Table, visit https://www.thecollectivetable.org/ 

Malynda Hale is a singer/songwriter, actress, entrepreneur & activist. She uses her voice through music and social media presence as an educating activist to effect change within social justice, female empowerment, LGBTQ+ rights, veganism, the Black Lives Matter movement and Progressive Christianity.

Her podcast #WeNeedToTalk focuses on powerful one-on-one conversations and drives home the message that “everything begins with a conversation." 

Learn more about Malynda at malyndahale.com.

Learn more about The Collective Table at thecollectivetable.org. 

With his band Everyday Sunday, Trey Pearson has sold hundreds of thousands of records, and amassed millions of streams. He has scored 5 #1 U.S. singles and 20 Top 10 hits. His song “Wake Up! Wake Up!” was the most-played Christian rock song of 2007, and his 2009 album, “Best Night of Our Lives,” broke onto the coveted Billboard 200 chart. Pearson has toured in all 50 states and 20 countries, playing with top Christian musicians such as Toby Mac, Switchfoot, MercyMe, Jeremy Camp, Relient K and others.

Recently, Trey Pearson, the founder and owner of Everyday Sunday, has come out of the closet to make national news. His announcement started a national conversation with a television appearance on The View. It has been covered by The New York Times, Billboard Magazine, CNN and more, as he became the most trending topic worldwide on Facebook.

Trey was nominated for a 2017 GLAAD Award for his appearance on The View. Trey has been performing at Pride Festivals all around the country, with Kesha and Betty Who. He released his debut solo single, “Silver Horizon”, and premiered the music video on Teen Vogue. Billboard Magazine did a  feature on Trey for his new album, premiered the title track for his debut solo album “Love Is Love”, which is now available worldwide.

His new album 'Somebody You Knew' comes out July 1! Follow Trey on Instagram @treypearson and learn more about him at treypearson.com. 

Learn more about The Collective Table at thecollectivetable.org

Rev. Chelsea, Dana and Rev. Claire have an in depth conversation about the new vision of hope that the resurrection provides. A new hope that comes to us through the experience of Mary Magdalene. She is the one who Jesus appears to for the first time since dying on the cross. And this changes everything!

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It also includes this sometimes confusing line “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. If you really know me, you will know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him.”

This conversation really dives into what that verse means. Is believing in Jesus the only way to heaven? Spoiler alert…NO! 

Learn more at thecollectivetable.org 

You can learn more about the author and her work at colearthurriley.com 

You can learn more about The Collective Table at thecollectivetable.org 

In this episode, Rev. Chelsea and Rev. Claire discuss John 12:1-8 in which Mary Magdalene anoints Jesus with expensive perfume essentially preparing him for his death. The multiple characters within the story represent the various places we might find ourselves at any given time on our journey.

Tune in and see where you might find yourself within the story and use it to guide you as you continue on your Lenten journey.

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Rev. Joe Kim joyfully and passionately talks about the story of Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Jesus reminds a distraught Martha that he is not only the resurrection but also the life…here and now. 

And now that Lazarus is alive they can go on eating, and drinking, and doing life together. Pastor Joe reminds us that Lent is about Jesus inviting us into relationship with him, to do life with him and to do life with each other. 

So please enjoy our conversation with Rev. Joe Kim.

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Even though this passage is typically read at weddings, the love that Paul is talking about has almost nothing to do with romance. This biblical love that Paul describes is not only what you do but it’s who you are. It comes from your identity in a God who is love.

Once we recognize and claim this identity we can act out of and in love. True love, as Paul sees it, always begins with God and always reaches beyond one’s self to others. So our biblical love is meant to build one another up.

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In this episode, Dana and Rev. Claire dive into 1st Corinthians 12 (spiritual gifts and the body of Christ). Paul is teaching the people of Corinth about being unified in the midst of diversity by using their gifts to build one another up...or in other words the common good.

It's not about division of labor but rather recognizing our interdependence. We need each other! All parts are unique, distinct, yet woven together to allow for fullness and perfection (holiness).

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Don’t forget to sign-up to receive the full collection!

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Art is the expression of human creative skill and imagination.  When we engage with one another through small group experiences we are creating the art of community. Every person in the community offers his/her/their lived experience.Layers, textures, and colors add to the emerging community through listening, discussing, and reflecting.

A Christ-centered community comes together to hear and learn from God and one another.  It is through these relationships we inch closer to a holy and whole work of art

Season 4, The Art of Community, consists of 15-20 minute podcast episodes focused on the importance of community. Each collection includes a podcast/YouTube episode, accompanying curriculum, original music, meditation, art and additional resources can be used by small groups to grow deeper in their discipleship. 

The goal of Season 4 is to equip individuals and leaders to engage deeply and authentically in their faith with others. TCT will provide tips, tools, spiritual practices, and guidance to help you do just that! In this first episode Rev. Chelsea and Dana give you a sneak peak into all the exciting aspects that Season 4, The Art of Community, will provide.

Make sure to sign-up to receive the full collections right to your inbox!

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For many looking for a more expansive way to be Christian, Rob has paved the way. And he brings others along. He writes and talks about the Bible in accessible, passionate, interesting, funny, and thoughtful ways that inspire people to fall in love with God. 

Rob’s work leads to an expansive, inclusive, and truthful way of engaging in our faith. In this episode we talk with Rob about an episode titled “We Hung Our Harps”. It’s about Lament, Joy, Empire and Hope. Rob is funny, engaging, generous, relatable and just all around wonderful. If you have not listened to Rob’s podcast or read a Rob Bell book, we highly encourage you to do that…as soon as you finish this episode!

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You can listen to Rob's full sermon here 

Olu strongly believes in an active church, one that makes a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities. Impact is a multicultural community committed to Doing Church Differently™.

Olu is compelled to help bring healing, justice and compassion to the world.

In this conversation Chelsea and Dana talk to Olu about a sermon he preached on the 20th anniversary of 9/11. Using a passage found in Lamentations, Olu addresses mental health and our human need to deal with the past in order to have a hopeful and joyful future. 

He reminds us about the delicate balance between trusting God and taking action. In his passionate yet gentle way Olu inspires us to shift our perspective and view the world through a God lens. We hope you enjoy it!

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Hear Rev. Brown's full sermon here 

He has also served as Director for Community Care at Spark12; Senior Associate for Membership Development and Services for the Conference of Non-Governmental Organizations in Relationship with the United Nations,; and Program and Administrative Assistant at the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church, United Nations Office. 

Joe has traveled around the world as a speaker, workshop leader and facilitator, encouraging people of faith to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with God.

Rev. Joe is a passionate speaker, an advocate for social justice and a deep Biblical thinker. This sermon was preached during Lent as part of a larger sermon series called the Bigger Picture. Titled “I am the Resurrection and the Life”, this sermon focuses on the scripture found in John 11 in which Lazarus dies and Jesus reminds his sisters that not only is Jesus offering life after death but also here and now.

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Yoyu can listen to Joe's full sermon here 

Among these ways of describing Dr. Robyn, they are also a visionary thinker who has spent two decades working in the hybrid space of church, academy, & movements seeking to not only disrupt but dismantle supremacy culture by focusing their PhD studies on new concepts of being & becoming, and  decolonizing knowledge production.

They enflesh a deep hope of collaborating in these hybrid spaces where their work seeks to contribute to the ongoing work of collective liberation.  

The sermon we talk about in this episode is called “Hope as Defiant.” Preached at a United Methodist Church in New York during Pride Weekend, Dr. Robyn felt compelled to talk about a necessary component of activism and faith….hope. And in the midst of the brokenness and hurt in our world this hope needs to be bold, resilient, defiant. 

In this conversation we take a deep dive into this defiant hope and its implications on how we participate in the world.

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