In this week's podcast, Episcopal priest James Derkits and I explore the human need for community as expressed through the way the South Texas island town, Port Aransas, responds to the destruction following Hurricane Harvey. We explore individual and collective trauma and recognize that sometimes people find psychological gold after enduring the darkest of times. We begin this conversation by James vulnerably explaining the journey through his priesthood, which includes a period of doubt. James and I explore Christian theology and define terms ranging from priest and grace to ritual, and James eloquently helps us understand what religion means to him and how he understands the term Christ – James has a broad definition of this term that may signify more than one may think. The episode reframes my understanding of the Christian tradition (it just might not be what you think).

James's Bio:

I grew up in Silsbee, TX

I went to college in San Marcos

I'm married to Laura Derkits

Eli is our son

I'm an Episcopal Priest

I live in Port Aransas

I'm a musician

I love being outdoors

I pay attention to my dreams

Where to reach James:

http://james-derkits.blogspot.com

http://www.trinitybythesea.org

https://www.facebook.com/TrinitybytheSea/

Music by James:

https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/buffalo-roam/1129484513

Theme music provided by:

http://www.modernnationsmusic.com

Learn more about this project at:

http://www.thesacredspeaks.com

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thesacredspeaks/