Welcome to a new season of Transforming Engagement, the Podcast! 

On this podcast, we are dedicated to exploring how each of us can serve God and neighbor in our unique communities and contexts. This season, we’re inviting you into our extended backyard - the unique tapestry of the continental Pacific Northwest, defined by its watershed, and known as the “Cascadia” region. 

Here, ministry takes on its own distinct flavor. This season, we’re asking: What sets Cascadia apart from other regions of the US and Canada? How do those differences shape our ministries, and how do leaders here understand their role in shaping those ministries?

We’re kicking off this season with a conversation with Forrest Inslee, who brought the Christ and Cascadia journal into The Seattle School. Forrest is a professor who is involved in faith-based environmental education and advocacy nonprofit called Circlewood. He also hosts a podcast for that Circlewood called Earthkeepers, which focuses on helping Christ followers to integrate creation care into everyday faith practices.

Join us as we explore:

• Geographical influences and human-nature relationships that uniquely shape the culture in this region

• Cultural norms including the suspicion of tradition, desire for independence, and a more flexible approach to faith practices compared to other regions.

• The challenges and opportunities in building community, including “The Seattle Freeze”

• The future of faith in this region, including non-traditional church structures, emphasis on authenticity and spirituality over religious dogma, and incorporation of nature into religious practices.

Wherever you're listening from, we hope these conversations inspire reflections on how you're serving in your own context. 

To our neighbors throughout the Cascadia region: Mark your calendars for April 25th and plan to join us for our inaugural Christ & Cascadia Gathering. More details can be found at christandcascadia.com/gathering.