In this episode… In this episode, Clare, Kelsey Phillips and Riley Brown dive into one of the oldest — and most misunderstood — topics in Christian theology: heaven and hell. Together, with Mtr. Kelly Demo, they unpack what the Episcopal Church teaches (and doesn’t teach) about the afterlife, judgment, salvation, and what it all means for how we live today.

About the Hosts

The Rev. Clare Stern-Burbano (she/her) The Rev. Clare Stern-Burbano (she/her) is the curate for Campus Ministry at Kansas State University and the Associate for college, youth, and children’s ministry at a parish in Kansas City, MO and graduate from the Univ. of Dubuque Theological Seminary (MDiv.) and from Bishop Kemper School for Ministry (Anglican Studies). She hopes of one day becoming an Episcopal priest and is discerning in the Diocese of Kansas. Clare comes from an interfaith family and found a spiritual home in the Episcopal Church when she was nine years old. 

Riley Brown (He/Him)

Riley Brown is the Young Adult Missioner for the Diocese of West MO. He is passionate about making the Episcopal Church accessible to young people who, like himself, might not have grown up in the tradition. In other words, he feels his goal is to help make it all make sense to those who might not understand all the smells, bells, kneeling, and standing. Riley lives with his wife, Noah, and their two cats, Punchy and Teddy. He enjoys reading and playing games with his friends. 

Guest: 

The Rev. Kelly Demo (she/her) is the Associate Rector at St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church in Overland Park, Kansas. During her 29 years of ordained ministry much of Kelly's work has focused on both youth and their spiritual development, and matters of social justice and poverty. Outside the church Rev. Demo worked for ten years with international aid organizations. She created and published a Scripture based retreat for youth called Miqra which is used in many dioceses around the country. She is currently developing a curriculum that helps older teens discover their gifts and God-given passions so they might serve the Kingdom and has authored two books. Kelly is married to The Rev. Gar Demo. They have two grown children, a dog, and a cat she never knew she needed.

Relevant links:

Suggestions and Comments for the Co-hosts? Click here to submit your question or comment. 

To learn more about the Episcopal Diocese of W. MO College and Young Adult Ministry click here

To learn more about the Episcopal Diocese of Kansas Children, Youth, Young Adults, & Campus Ministry  click here

All Things…Episcopal podcast is a production of The Diocese of West Missouri and Diocese of Kansas in association with Resonate Media. 

Music is provided by Blue Dot sessions

Our opening theme is New Found Believers and our closing theme is After Sunrise