Why has the Catholic Church in India become so engaged in environmental initiatives? And what does the wider Indian political context defined by an assertive Hindu nationalism mean for the ability of church actors to pursue environmental agendas? In this episode, we are joined by Kenneth Bo Nielsen and Nihar Gokhale who have examined these questions in the Indian state of Goa, focusing on church activities and outreach in the domain of sustainable agriculture and agroecology.

You can read more about their research on the relationship between Christian environmentalism, agroecology and the rise of Hindu majoritarianism in the edited volume Religion and Ecological Crisis: Responses from Asia, published by Leiden University Press.

Kenneth Bo Nielsen is a Social Anthropologist at the University of Oslo in Norway.

Nihar Gokhale is a DPhil student in International Development at the Oxford Department of International Development.

Mette Halskov Hansen, your host, is a Professor of China Studies at the University of Oslo.

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Prayer often comes with many questions: Why didn’t God answer my prayer? Why does God allow suffering and evil in the world? Why does prayer even matter? Theologian Dr. Erwin Lutzer answers each of these concerns with empathy for those who struggle with unanswered prayer as he reminds us of God’s trustworthiness and sovereign plan, firmly based on His promises. He shares that prayer isn’t about changing God’s will but aligning ours with Him, as we grow deeper in our relationship with Him.

Receive a copy of Why Doesn’t God Answer My Prayers? A Biblical Guide to God’s Hidden Purposes and an audio download of "Trusting God When He Doesn't Answer Your Prayers" for your donation of any amount!

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Millions of Americans now believe and live as if Obergefell has settled the question of same-sex "marriage". It did not. 

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Join us for RAR's Summer Adventure. 

 When you think about the various work that goes into making a children’s book, research probably isn’t at the top of your list. 

It might not make it on your list at all!

But research is often an essential part of the process. And I can tell you from personal experience that research can be a time-intensive, sometimes overwhelming, but often the most delightful task. 

Today on the show, we’re hearing from some incredible authors and illustrators about the research that goes into children’s books. Whether you’re an aspiring author or a curious reader, you’re in for some surprises.

In this episode, you’ll hear: 

• Two big reasons why authors do research, whether they’re writing a biography, historical fiction, or even fantasy!
• How every research question can be a doorway, from talking with subject matter experts to primary sources to searching your own heart and mind
• The challenges and opportunities in having too little or too much information available about a person or topic

Learn more about Sarah Mackenzie:

• Read Aloud Revival
• Waxwing Books
• Subscribe to the Newsletter

Find the rest of the show notes at: readaloudrevival.com/sparking-creativity-with-research

Prayer often comes with many questions: Why didn’t God answer my prayer? Why does God allow suffering and evil in the world? Why does prayer even matter? Theologian Dr. Erwin Lutzer answers each of these concerns with empathy for those who struggle with unanswered prayer as he reminds us of God’s trustworthiness and sovereign plan, firmly based on His promises. He shares that prayer isn’t about changing God’s will but aligning ours with Him, as we grow deeper in our relationship with Him.

Receive a copy of Why Doesn’t God Answer My Prayers? A Biblical Guide to God’s Hidden Purposes and an audio download of "Trusting God When He Doesn't Answer Your Prayers" for your donation of any amount!

Get More Episode Resources 

If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

What does it take to lead a Christian university without compromising its mission?

Indiana Wesleyan University President, Dr. Jon Kulaga, joins Kurt Luidhardt to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today, the importance of remaining grounded in a Christ-centered mission, and why authentic institutions are seeing renewed interest from families seeking more than career preparation alone.

The conversation explores Indiana Wesleyan's record enrollment growth, the integration of faith and learning, national championship athletics, vocational training initiatives, and how Christian universities can prepare students to navigate emerging technologies like AI while remaining committed to biblical truth.

Dr. Kulaga also shares his personal journey from youth ministry to university leadership, lessons from nearly four decades in Christian higher education, insights on marriage and family, and the legacy he hopes to leave for the next generation of leaders.

0:00 Intro

5:26 Athletic Success and Esports

13:44 The Integration of Faith and Learning

16:48 Challenges Facing Higher Education Today

21:08 Why Christian Education Offers a Different Perspective

23:35 Dr. Kulaga's Journey Into Higher Education

27:41 Life and Community on Campus

35:01 Family, Marriage, and Leadership

38:15 Lightning Round

Resources Mentioned:

Indiana Wesleyan University

https://www.indwes.edu

IWU on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/indwes/

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Liberty Spenders™ Podcast

Join Kurt and Kristen, founders of Liberty Spenders™ on a groundbreaking podcast that unveils the secrets to tapping into the immense potential of the faith-based conservative market. With an estimated $5 trillion in annual spending power, this loyal and engaged consumer base represents a golden opportunity for businesses seeking rapid growth and increased customer loyalty. In each episode, Kurt and Kristen share their deep insights and proven strategies for authentically connecting with the Liberty Spender audience. Drawing from their extensive experience in political campaigns and their unique, data-driven approach, they guide listeners through the 5 Ps process: People, Positioning, Passion, Proof, and Product Launch.

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The French philosopher rejected fixed human nature and birthed an identity crisis for the books.

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