In this episode, Wyatt Graham and Steven Wedgworth discuss the recent Pew Research data on the religious landscape of the U.S., focusing on fertility rates among different religious groups, the decline of Christianity, the impact of immigration, generational changes in religious identity, and the challenges facing Christian institutions. They emphasize the importance of family dynamics in religious upbringing and the need for a renewed focus on the Great Commission in modern mission work.

00:00 Exploring Fertility Rates Among Christians

02:52 The Decline of Christianity in America

05:51 Demographic Shifts and Religious Identity

08:35 The Role of Immigration in Religious Retention

11:34 The Impact of Education on Religious Participation

14:29 Gender Dynamics in Religious Affiliation

21:04 The Closing Gap in Religious Affiliation

22:14 The Stability of Evangelicalism

23:50 Generational Decline in Religious Identity

25:41 The Importance of Family Religious Practices

27:42 The Impact of Liberal Ideologies on Church Attendance

29:12 The Shift in Religious Identity

31:01 The Future of Christian Institutions

33:17 The Fragility of Small Churches

34:52 The Volatility of Pastoral Positions

37:31 The Loss of Multi-Generational Churches

39:24 Creating a Counterculture of Christianity

42:51 The Great Commission and Immigrant Christians

45:25 The Overall Decline of the Church

This conversation explores the significance of Ash Wednesday and Lent within the Anglican tradition, discussing its historical context, the use of ashes, and the importance of fasting and repentance. Wyatt and Steven emphasize the role of the church calendar in guiding spiritual practices and the need for personal discipline during Lent. Practical applications for fasting and the relationship between the church calendar and civic holidays are also examined.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ash Wednesday and Lent

01:27 Historical Context of Ash Wednesday

04:19 The Significance of Lent

07:57 Biblical Foundations of Lent

09:49 The Role of Ashes in Ash Wednesday

11:39 Pastoral Guidance for Lent Practices

16:29 The Journey from Death to Life

19:37 Repentance and Spiritual Discipline

21:29 Reevaluating the Church Calendar

28:16 Understanding Fasting and Spiritual Discipline

36:05 The Importance of Spiritual Reflection

In this episode of Davenant Discussions, Wyatt Graham and Steven Wedgeworth explore the complexities of affording family life in today's society. They discuss the cultural pressures and expectations that delay marriage and family planning, the impact of lifestyle choices on financial stability, and the importance of practical skills and community support. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in mindset regarding family and career priorities, as well as the role of the church in fostering a supportive environment for families. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to embrace the challenges of family life and recognize that readiness is often a myth.

Chapters

00:00 The Challenge of Affording Family Today

02:30 Cultural Influences on Family Planning

04:23 Lifestyle Choices and Financial Realities

09:16 The Importance of Home Economics

12:08 Community Support and Wealth Sharing

15:07 Reevaluating Living Arrangements for Family Flourishing

19:53 Navigating Employment and Economic Challenges

20:44 The Importance of Early Commitment

22:02 Marriage as a Foundation for Family

23:34 Redefining Affordability in Family Life

24:56 Community Support and Resource Sharing

26:59 Reviving Practical Skills for Self-Sufficiency

29:30 Church Support for New Families

32:14 Promoting Family Life as a Positive Choice

36:05 Finding Balance in Family Activities

In this episode of Davenant Discussions, Wyatt Graham and Steven Wedgeworth delve into the complex topic of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and its implications on family dynamics and demographic trends. They discuss a recent executive order promoting IVF, the infertility crisis, and the influence of figures like Elon Musk on pronatalist movements. The conversation also explores theological perspectives on reproduction through the work of Oliver O'Donovan, public policy considerations, and the cultural and economic factors affecting family planning. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of faith and community in addressing these challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to IVF and Current Context

02:43 The Infertility Crisis and Pronatalism

05:31 Personal Perspectives on IVF

08:27 Elon Musk's Influence on IVF Discussions

11:05 Theological Perspectives on Begetting vs. Making

13:39 O'Donovan's Argument on IVF

16:17 The Implications of IVF on Family Dynamics

19:22 Ethical Considerations in IVF Practices

25:27 Addressing the Baby Crisis: Public Policy Perspectives

28:09 The Economics of IVF and Family Choices

30:12 Understanding the Choice to Have Children

33:24 The Role of Government in Family Support

35:28 Social Expectations and Family Dynamics

38:15 Reimagining Family Life in Modern Society

43:03 Faith, Family, and the Future of Parenthood

Keywords

IVF, infertility, demographic crisis, Elon Musk, pronatalism, public policy, family dynamics, theology, reproductive technology, cultural factors

Resource: Buy Begotten or Made here.

On February 10th, Pope Francis⁠ wrote⁠⁠ a letter⁠ to the bishops of the United States where he responded to Vice President Vance’s statement about the ordo Amoris. In this first episode of Davenant Discussions, Wyatt Graham and Steven Wedgeworth discuss the Pope's letter and the broader notion of the Ordo Amoris.