In this continuation of our conversation, Julie Sheetz shares her personal journey of faith—growing up Presbyterian, becoming a pastor, and ultimately finding her calling in interfaith ministry. She reflects on the formative experiences that shaped her spirituality, from her mother’s deepening faith to her own early explorations of Quakerism and social justice.

Julie opens up about the complexities of leading a faith community while holding deep questions, the struggles of navigating religious institutions, and how advocating for LGBTQ+ inclusion in the Presbyterian Church played a pivotal role in her transition to interfaith work. We discuss the challenges of faith in uncertain times, the tension between belief and doubt, and the ways in which sacred wrestling can bring us closer to meaning.

Episode Breakdown

⏳ 01:00 Growing up Presbyterian

Julie’s early experiences with faith, her parents’ deepening spirituality, and how her upbringing influenced her.

⏳ 6:30 First encounters with other faith traditions

A high school crush led her to Quaker meetings, and college further broadened her perspective on spirituality.

⏳ 07:45 The call to ministry & seminary years

Julie’s initial desire to be an English teacher, the academic rigor of studying religion, and her decision to enter pastoral ministry.

⏳ 9:00 Wrestling with faith as a pastor

The expectation that religious leaders must have certainty, and how her doubts and questions shaped her ministry.

⏳ 14:10 LGBTQ+ inclusion & institutional challenges

Julie’s advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights within the Presbyterian Church and how it sparked her transition to broader interfaith work.

⏳ 16:15 - Moving Into interfaith ministry

How her experience in church leadership, social justice work, and theological study prepared her for multifaith engagement.

⏳ 17:30 - How her faith looks today

Julie’s current relationship with the Presbyterian Church, how her beliefs have evolved, and the practices that sustain her spirituality.

⏳ 22:00 - History and overview of the Presbyterian Church

A look at the Presbyterian Church’s origins, its connection to the Reformation, and how its structure and theology developed over time.

⏳ 31:38 - A current faith question Julie has

The enduring question of why suffering exists, process theology’s influence on her perspective, and how she finds meaning in uncertainty.

⏳ 38:10 - What does sacred uncertainty means to you?

A deep dive into the story of Jacob wrestling with the angel and why she believes wrestling with faith is part of the spiritual journey.