Holy Shenanigans

In this episode of Holy Shenanigans,  Tara  reflects on finding the sacred in daily life. Using the biblical story from Mark 4 where Jesus calms a storm, Tara discusses the metaphorical storms of life and how we can navigate them. She shares her experiences and emphasizes the importance of a 'rule of life'—a personal guide crafted through prayer and discernment. Tara recounts her baccalaureate address for Jamestown High School's Class of 2024, encouraging graduates to develop their own rules of life driven by love, intention, verve, and ease. She concludes with a poetic blessing that underscores resilience and gratitude amidst life’s challenges.

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

In this episode, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman discusses the theme of 'wild love' and draws parallels between the protective nature of wild geese and the Holy Spirit, often symbolized as a wild goose in Celtic Christianity. Through a relatable story of encountering a protective goose family and the Gospel account of Jesus' unwavering commitment to his mission despite opposition, Tara emphasizes the unpredictable and bold nature of divine love. The message calls for an inclusive celebration of all people, echoing the spirit of Pride Month, and encourages listeners to engage with this 'wild love' by sharing their own rainbow-themed photos on social media. #junerainbows

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

In 'Holy Shenanigans' hosted by Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman, listeners are encouraged to explore the sacred in daily life and open up to different facets of love. Tara shares personal stories, including a bubble-blowing practice with her children for relaxation and reflection, and a heartwarming story of a father surprising his daughter in a Santa suit. She also draws lessons from a biblical account of Nicodemus seeking Jesus’ wisdom at night. The podcast emphasizes that love is both comforting and challenging, calling for bold, actionable expressions and openness to the divine presence in everyday moments.

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

An episode exploring the power of little ascensions and the connection between music, love, and encouragement.

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

Author Debie Thomas discusses her new book "A Faith of Many Rooms" with Pastor Tara. They delves into topics such as the messy journey of faith, the significance of doubt, and the concept of spiritual "nada" or homeland.

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

Everyone's answer to this question is different. Some go for the music, others for the camping, some take in theological lectures, poetry slams, social justice forums, late night campfires, silent disco, art exhibits, book store and so much more! One thing follow Goose attenders can agree as their why in attending are the connections that are made - that carry on well after the festival ends. 

Listen in this week to learn more about the Wild Goose Festival from Tim Kerr - Director of Partner Relations Wild Goose Festival and participant in every Goose Festival since 2011.  

A note from Tim...

As the Sponsor Relations Director at Wild Goose Festival, I am dedicated to fostering strategic partnerships with sponsors who share our mission and values. Through cultivating these relationships, I aim to create an inclusive environment for individuals to explore spirituality, justice, and the arts. By gaining a deep understanding of the festival’s vision and sponsor needs, I strive to ensure that partnerships are mutually beneficial and in alignment with our mission. Based in Jacksonville, Florida, I am happily married to Jan for 38 years, with a son Zach, Daughter in Law Catie, and three grandchildren, Isabella, Henry, and Benjamin Brooks. Outside of work, I am actively involved in community projects, support local art initiatives, and advocate for social justice causes.

SPIRIT | JUSTICE | MUSIC | ART
Wild Goose Festival is a transformational community grounded in faith-inspired social justice

PS>
Hey friends of HSP! I'm thrilled to share that I'll be recording a podcast from Wild Goose Festival this July 11-14! Wild Goose Festival is a transformational community grounded in faith-inspired social justice. It's a one-of-a-kind gathering that brings together activists, artists, and seekers from all walks of life to explore justice, art, spirituality, and community.

The festival will take place at VanHoy Farms in Union Grove, NC, and I'd love for you to join me there! From engaging workshops to inspiring panels and interactive experiences, Wild Goose has something for everyone. So, mark your calendars, and let's be a part of this incredible community that is committed to making a positive impact in the world. For more information, visit www.wildgoosefestival.org. 

As one of my followers, use discount code A-TLE24 and you’ll get $50 off the price of an adult weekend ticket. See you there! 

#WildGooseFestival #Community #SocialJustice #Spirituality

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

This week Tara discusses spirituality and nature with special guest Tony Jones. They reminisce about the  the emergent church movement, the intersection of faith and nature, and even the role of dogs in spiritual journeys. Tony shares insights from his new book 'God of the Wild Places' and reflects on finding God in the wilderness. The conversation touches on the limitations of organized religion and the transformative power of reconnecting with the natural world. The episode concludes with a blessing invoking the presence of the divine in creation.

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

Writing is spiritual practice. Where do you begin, if you want to try it out?
Pen.
Pencil.
Journal.
Laptop.

Yes, all of these tools can help with your writing practice, but first you need yourself and a community to support your practice.

Rev. Dr. Eileen Campbell-Reed, is an academic entreprenuer and  host of the Writing Table, who, in this week's episode, shares her own journey with writing as a spiritual practice.

Who is Rev. Dr. Eileen Campbell- Reed?
+ Visiting Associate Professor at Union Theological Seminary
+ Co-director of the Learning Pastoral Imagination Project
+ Founder and host of Three Minute Ministry Mentor
+ Author of Pastoral Imagination: Bringing the Practice of Ministry to Life

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

Is Everything Good about God True?

Join Rev. Tara Eastman and special guest Rev. Bruce Reyes Chow to discuss his new book to help the reader learn about a progressive, expansive, and generous Christianity

Rev. Bruce believes that - "A better story of faith exists, and it has the capacity to heal the world--if we only embrace, articulate, and live it more courageously."

What do you believe? 

Rev. Bruce is an active speaker and writer on topics of faith, culture, race, and technology. He hosts the podcast, BRC & Friends, and has authored five books most recently, “In Defense of Kindness: Why It Matters, How It Changes Our Lives, and How It Can Save the World” (Chalice Press, 2021) and "Everything Good about God is True: Choosing Faith" (Broadleaf Books, 2024).

Bruce has been active in local politics and community organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area for nearly three decades. He has been an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) since 1995 and was the Moderator of the Presbyterian Church USA, 2008-2010. He is also a Senior Consultant and Coach with Convergence and is a Gallup-Certified CliftonStrengths Coach. 

Bruce has an active online presence and can be found on most social networks via @breyeschow with all current links here: https://linktr.ee/breyeschow.

____________________________________________________________________________________________

You Can Help with the Holy Shenanigans!

Help send Rev. Tara to the T4T Soul Shop Train the Trainer event this April!
By attending this training, Rev. Tara will be able to offer workshops to equip faith community leaders and congregations to minister to those impacted by suicide. To contribute to the expenses of this training ($2500+travel) go to: Buy Me A Coffee. Please make the note: "Soul Shop Training" in your donation, so we can thank you!

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

How can this Lent be "Icon-ic"?

Join Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman on a Lenten journey with Kristen Wheeler as they explore iconography as a spiritual practice.

Questions To Ponder:
How could engaging with Icons enrich your Lent? Your spiritual life?
What is your "favorite" saint - and why?
How do you engage in creativity as a spiritual practice?


 Kristen is a modern iconographer, fine art painter, creative photographer, inspired writer, vivid storyteller, and world explorer.  From Kristen:  "My soul is stirred by the colorful and dark creation around and within us and I'm influenced by equal parts pain and joy. Studying theology and the saints are my passion and I love nothing more than sharing that passion with others by teaching, preaching, and leading creative-based workshops and retreats. I'm a deeply spiritual individual with friends and family of every spectrum of belief and non-belief. I believe that if you are a good person to yourself and others, the rest of the details are lagniappe (as we say in Louisiana). I believe my only job as a Christian person is to be the best example of Jesus' love I know how to be. I live and love in Southeast Louisiana with my husband, Basset Hound, overly affectionate kitty, and massive collection of house plants, all of which keep me of sound mind and body."

Kristen's Websites:
moderniconographer.com
kristenannwheeler.com

Send Tara a Text Message

Support the show

Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.