In this thought-provoking episode of Two Bald Pastors, Joe McGarry and Geoff Sinibaldo dive into a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation about what it means to be the Church in today’s rapidly changing world. Starting off with some light banter about AI cartoons and ministry tech tools, the two pastors explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in both education and sermon preparation—highlighting its limits in authentic, relational ministry. The heart of the episode centers around deep questions: What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus today? What does participation in church really look like in a hybrid, post-COVID, digital-physical world? The pastors reflect on recent interviews (including one with Bishop Nathan Pipho) and unpack the challenge of maintaining meaningful connection, hospitality, and community in the face of increasing individualism and consumer expectations around worship. Themes of intentional worship planning, liturgical tradition, community engagement, and the importance of safe spaces in faith communities emerge. Joe shares stories from his congregation and prison ministry, emphasizing how joy, music, and intergenerational worship can ground people in faith. Geoff reflects on how churches need to become spaces where people can be heard, express doubt, and reflect deeply—without judgment or pressure to perform. The episode closes with a powerful conversation about reclaiming the values of grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation. They suggest a practice of defining what the “Kingdom of God” means for individuals and communities as a spiritual grounding point. The episode ultimately encourages pastors, leaders, and laypeople alike to be intentional, authentic, and community-oriented as they redefine what “church” means in our time. 🔑 Key Takeaways: AI is a tool, not a replacement for personal reflection or relational preaching. Church participation today is less about physical presence and more about meaningful connection. The future of church lies in relational, intentional community—not just programs or tradition. Safe, reflective spaces are essential for deepening faith and building trust across differences. Defining and embodying our personal understanding of God’s kingdom can guide more authentic ministry. To contact us you can email us at [email protected]

In this episode, Joe McGarry and Geoff Sinibaldo—aka the Two Bald Pastors—sit down with Bishop Nathan Pipho of the ELCA’s New England Synod. It’s a thoughtful, heartfelt, and energizing conversation about what it means to be the church in today's world. Bishop Nathan opens up about the relentless pace of ministry, the sacred work of building connections, and his ongoing focus on telling the story of Jesus. He talks about moving congregations beyond survival mode and into deeper, faith-driven purpose, sharing stories of hope, resilience, and creativity from across New England. The episode also touches on the role of the church in the face of social injustice, how to lead faithfully in politically divided congregations, and the importance of nurturing relationships—with one another and ecumenical partners. Bishop Nathan offers practical wisdom for pastors, deacons, lay leaders, and every baptized believer seeking to live faithfully in these turbulent times. You'll also hear stories of powerful community witness, like the response to grief, and encouragement for imagining new forms of ministry in changing times. This conversation is honest, deeply pastoral, and full of hope. Whether you're a church leader or someone who just loves Jesus and wants to serve your neighbor, there’s something here for you.

In this thought-provoking episode of Two Bald Pastors, hosts Joe McGarry and Geoff Sinibaldo sit down with Pastor Angela Denker, Lutheran pastor, journalist, and author of Red State Christians and the newly released Disciples of White Jesus: The Radicalization of American Boyhood. Together, they dive deep into public theology, Christian nationalism, empathetic masculinity, and what it means to be faithful in an age of political and spiritual disconnection.

Angela shares how her calling blends pastoral care with hard-hitting journalism, and how storytelling has become the heart of her ministry. She reflects on how empathy is under attack in modern Christian culture and offers a radical alternative: relationships, vulnerability, and compassion as core masculine and spiritual traits.

The trio also touches on how churches and leaders can reclaim trust with young men, the subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways Christian nationalism creeps into everyday life, and the spiritual importance of listening—both to others and to God. Through personal stories, deep theological insights, and honest questions about culture and faith, this conversation reminds listeners that “only the stories can save us.” Angela also opens up about her writing process, her family’s spiritual journey, and the real-life impact of sharing alternative narratives that counter toxic forms of masculinity and power with the radical love of Jesus.

🔗 Resources Mentioned: Disciples of White Jesus – Angela’s new book

Angela’s Substack: angeladenker.substack.com – I’m Listening

Website: angeladenker.com

In this thought-provoking episode, the 2 bald pastors sit down with Dr. Charles Stallworth, a pastor and former state representative, to explore the critical intersection of faith and politics.

Dr. Stallworth shares his personal experiences and insights on navigating the complex landscape of civic engagement, offering wisdom on how to maintain principles while also fostering civility and finding common ground. The conversation delves into the troubling rise of Christian nationalism, and Dr. Stallworth challenges the church to boldly confront injustice and speak truth, while also lifting up examples of faithful, compassionate leadership.

He emphasizes the importance of humility, whether in victory or defeat, and encourages congregations to get involved in shaping public policy in ways that reflect the values of the gospel. This episode provides a timely and thought-provoking perspective for pastors and believers seeking to faithfully engage in the public square during this polarized era.

Geoff and Joe reflect on their conversation with Bishop Jim Hazelwood, discussing his legacy in the New England Synod. Joe shares a heartwarming story of a two-year-old boy who ushered during a church service, highlighting the importance of intergenerational connections.

Geoff and Joe also discuss their plans for a new Bible study podcast, inviting listeners to submit their ideas. They later discuss the need for churches to adapt to the post-COVID world, building relationships and trust among churches, and navigating church governance and conflict resolution. They also share their perspectives on leading the church in a rapidly changing world and the importance of youth ministry in the future of the church.

To order the Bishops new Book Click Here

In the 2 Bald Pastors podcast, hosts Joe McGarry and Geoff Sinibaldo discuss engaging their church community through various initiatives aimed at fostering connection, learning, and service. They highlight the success of interactive activities like trivia nights using platforms such as Kahoot and Blooket, advocating for intergenerational learning events that bridge the gap between different age groups within the church. The discussion also suggests rethinking traditional committee structures in favor of temporary, goal-oriented work groups to streamline volunteer efforts and make participation more accessible. Service projects are emphasized as a vital way for congregations to contribute to their local communities, with a focus on selecting initiatives that resonate with the congregation's interests. Additionally, the concept of a home communion visit team is introduced as a means to extend the church's care and outreach, suggesting that such shared ministry efforts can deepen relationships within the church community and provide meaningful support to those visited. Throughout the conversation, the importance of community, intergenerational engagement, and practical service is underscored as essential to the vitality and mission of the church.

In this podcast conversation between Joe McGarry and Geoff Sinibaldo, the hosts explore the challenges and opportunities facing the church in a time of declining membership and changing cultural attitudes toward religion.

They discuss regional and denominational trends in church decline, highlighting the need for congregations to adapt to new realities and rethink their approaches to outreach and mission. Despite the decline in organized religion, the hosts find hope in the continued belief in God among the majority of American adults and the curiosity about spirituality displayed by many young people.

They emphasize the importance of engaging with individuals' curiosity and receptiveness to spirituality as an opportunity for meaningful connection and potential transformation. The hosts also reflect on the future of the church, emphasizing the significance of individual encounters with Christ and the need to focus on fostering connections rather than getting caught up in cultural conflicts.

Despite the challenges posed by declining church attendance, the hosts remain optimistic about the church's potential to offer hope, comfort, and transformation to those seeking spiritual connection. They affirm their commitment to ongoing dialogue and exploration of what it means to be part of the church in a changing world.

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