Church Potluck: A Smorgasbord of Christian Curiosity

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In this delightfully sprawling new episode of Church Potluck, the "Core Four" reunite for a free-flowing conversation filled with laughter, deep reflection, and summer updates. Host Dale McConkey kicks things off by officially announcing his retirement as a United Methodist pastor, sharing heartwarming stories from his farewell sermon and his new children's book, The Little Church That Could. Joined by Michael Bailey, Christy Snider, and Michael Papazian, the group celebrates each other's summer adventures and votes on “Who Won the Summer” in classic potluck style.

True to its name, Church Potluck then serves up a smorgasbord of topics: the theological and emotional question of whether pets go to heaven, a gripping 19th-century Methodist murder trial, and a provocative new federal memo encouraging religious expression in the workplace. With plenty of laughter, deep thought, and spirited discussion, this episode captures the essence of what Church Potluck is all about—variety, authenticity, and the rich nourishment of shared conversation.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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In this episode of Church Potluck, host Dale McConkey welcomes Rev. Dr. Jonathan Huggins for a hearty and humorous conversation about his new book, What’s Christianity Really All About? A Guide to Essential Beliefs. Huggins, Berry College chaplain and theology professor, takes listeners on a whirlwind tour of the foundational beliefs of the Christian faith—offering a clear, accessible, and surprisingly compact summary of what all Christians can affirm. With each chapter of the book boiled down in a fast-paced (and only slightly chaotic) game show called “Fast Faith,” the two reflect on how doctrine, formation, and everyday life all tie back to Jesus.

Beyond the fun and games, the episode digs into serious questions: Why do so many people misunderstand Christianity? How can we hold the core beliefs in common while honoring denominational differences? What does it mean to say that Jesus is both our King and our Brother? With warmth, wisdom, and a dash of theological banter, this episode offers a rich introduction to Christianity’s central truths and why they still matter today—for lifelong believers, curious seekers, and skeptical students alike.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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How do we form meaningful relationships in an age of ghosting, digital overload, and chronic loneliness? In this episode, we explore the themes of Knowing and Being Known: Hope for All Our Intimate Relationships, the new book by chaplain and author Erin Moniz. Joined by Gabrielle Roes, ministry director at Berry College and counselor, and host Dale McConkey, a sociologist and pastor, the conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities of forming meaningful human connection in today’s tech-saturated, hyper-individualized culture.

Together, the trio discusses shifting views of intimacy, the rise of AI companions, the role of the church in fostering authentic relationships, and the limitations of purity culture. Drawing on theology, sociology, and lived experience in ministry, they offer insight into how the gospel can reframe our understanding of connection, identity, and love. Add in a lighthearted game show and plenty of personal stories, and you’ll find this episode as rich and varied as a real-life church potluck.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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We've covered the history and the politics of the Nicene Creed in the previous episode -- now let's explore it's meaning! This episode of Church Potluck dives deep into the text of the Nicene Creed on its 1700th birthday. Dale McConkey (sociologist and United Methodist pastor) hosts an engaging roundtable with Dr. Michael Papazian (Orthodox Christian and philosophy professor) and Dr. Jonathan Parker (Anglican priest and Bible scholar), exploring what the creed says, how it's used across traditions, and why it still matters today. With history, theology, humor, and even a game show draft of the creed’s key statements, this lively conversation brings ancient words to life.

From Christ’s divinity to the nature of the Trinity, the hosts reflect on why creeds exist, how they unify the global church, and what we risk losing if we ignore them. The episode is full of honest reflection, spirited banter, and deep insight into Christian belief. Whether you're a lifelong creed-reciter or new to the whole idea, this episode will leave you both informed and inspired.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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The Nicene Creed may be 1700 years old, but its relevance has never fully faded. In this episode of Church Potluck, host Dale McConkey gathers with Dr. Michael Papazian (philosopher/theologian) and Dr. Larry Marvin (historian) to explore how a fourth-century council shaped Christian identity in ways that still echo today. From Trinitarian debates to modern misunderstandings, the conversation reveals why creeds continue to matter—especially in a world where faith, authority, and interpretation are constantly in flux.

With the signature potluck mix of substance and light-heartedness, the episode includes a spirited game show ("If I Were a Bishop at Nicaea"), reflections on how politics and theology have always been intertwined, and thoughts on what a modern-day ecumenical council might tackle. Whether you recite the Nicene Creed weekly or have never heard of it, this episode offers food for thought that’s both timeless and timely.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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The Core Four return for a post-finals horror-themed episode of Church Potluck! After a movie night together, Dale and his guests (Christy, Mike, and Michael) discuss Sinners, a new horror film with bold religious and cultural themes. They unpack everything from the film’s unexpected twists and theological metaphors to its commentary on colonial Christianity, music as sacred memory, and the seduction of "polite evil." Then, the group shares their favorite horror movies with spiritual themes—ranging from The Exorcist to I Am Legend. Plus, a game of "Vampire or Theologian?" that goes hilariously off the rails.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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In this special Church Potluck episode, host Dale McConkey welcomes a lively panel of guests—including longtime podcast contributor Dr. Michael Papazian, first-time guest and Catholic partisan Rita Lawler, and a bonus interview with Catholic theologian-in-training Brett Adams—to reflect on the historic election of the new pope: Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost.

The conversation covers a wide range of theological, cultural, and political implications of having the first American (and dual Peruvian citizen) pope, affectionately once known as “Father Bob.” Guests explore Pope Leo’s unexpected rise, his reputation for humility and spiritual depth, his connections to Villanova University and Chicago's South Side, and the careful symbolic choices he's already made—like partially embracing traditional papal vestments and choosing the name “Leo.”

Themes of continuity and change run throughout the discussion. Panelists celebrate the deliberate, bridge-building, and Christ-centered tone Pope Leo seems to be striking—potentially extending the spirit of Francis while introducing a more structured and precise leadership style. There’s thoughtful engagement on topics like synodality, Catholic moral leadership, institutional reform, and the balancing act between tradition and adaptation in today’s church.

And of course—this wouldn’t be Church Potluck without a game show! “Papal Preferences” tests our guests’ knowledge of Pope Leo’s favorite sports teams, culinary leanings, and fashion choices. (Spoiler alert: He’s a White Sox fan, not a Cubs fan!)

BONUS INTERVIEW: Catholic convert and attorney Brett Adams joins the show to share his excitement and analysis, offering sharp theological reflections on Pope Leo’s first homily and what his papacy may signal for Catholics around the globe.

Don't miss our two other pope-related episodes:

• “Conclave Confidential: How the Pope is Chosen”
• “Pope Francis: The Legacy of a Reformer”

☕ Church Potluck is where Christian curiosity comes to the table. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review us—and share it with a friend. Thanks for listening, and as always: something to chew on, and food for thought.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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In this episode of Church Potluck, we dive into the critically acclaimed movie Conclave (eight Oscar nominations, one win), the visually stunning, slow-burning thriller about Vatican ritual, political intrigue, and a surprising final twist that invites deeper reflection. Join Dale McConkey and friends Christy Snider and Michael Papazian as they reflect on the film’s themes of faith and doubt, ambition and humility, and the tension between tradition and reform in the Catholic Church. Our panel of Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox voices weighs in on the movie’s historical elements, theological undercurrents, and what it reveals about institutional leadership. With a dose of humor, some friendly papal trivia, and plenty of thoughtful discussion, this episode blends cinematic curiosity with spiritual insight—Church Potluck style.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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What really happens when the world’s most powerful religious leaders lock themselves in a room to choose the next pope? In this episode, we unpack the mystery and meaning of the papal conclave following the death of Pope Francis. With insights from Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant guests, we explore the rituals, the history, and the global significance of this ancient process. Along the way, we reflect on Francis’s legacy, the future of the papacy, and even play a round of Pope or Nope. Whether you're religious or just curious, this is your behind-the-scenes look at one of Christianity’s most sacred and secretive traditions.

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.

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Navigating the roles of pastor as both priest and prophet presents a unique dynamic within church ministry. Our panel, all pulpit preachers, explores the complexities of speaking truth to power, particularly in light of recent events surrounding Bishop Budde's remarks at the National Prayer Service. Through this discussion, we examine the balance of comfort and challenge within the pulpit, the role of civic religion, and the importance of building relationships within the congregation.

• Discussion on the dual role of pastors as both priest and prophet 
• Examination of Bishop Mary Ann Budde's sermon and its implications 
• Reactions to addressing public officials in worship settings 
• The importance of relationship-building for effective ministry 
• Encouraging empathy in the congregation amidst divisive socio-political issues 
• Reflections on unity, mercy, and the pastor's calling

The views expressed on Church Potluck are solely those of the participants and do not represent any organization.