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In this conversation, Christine Sine and Forrest Inslee engage with Ruth Valerio, exploring her journey into Earth care and the integration of faith with environmentalism. Ruth shares her personal experiences and theological insights, emphasizing the interconnectedness of social justice and environmental issues. The discussion highlights the importance of simplicity in living, the role of the church in advocating for Earth care, and the need for individual action in addressing the climate crisis.

takeaways

• Ruth's journey into Earth care began with a focus on poverty and social justice.
• A second conversion experience led Ruth to understand the importance of creation care.
• Nature is not separate from humanity; we are part of creation.
• Theological foundations of Earth care are rooted in scripture and God's love for all creation.
• Earth care and social justice are intertwined and cannot be separated.
• Living simply is a response to the damage caused by consumerism.
• The church has the potential to mobilize for significant change in Earth care.
• Individual actions can lead to collective impact in addressing environmental issues.
• Advocacy and speaking out for the marginalized is a Christian responsibility.
• We must resist the politicization of climate issues and focus on the crisis at hand.

Ruth Valerio writes:

"I have a vision to inspire and equip people to a whole-life response to environmental breakdown and poverty, helping build a movement that brings about lasting change on the issues that impact the poorest and most vulnerable, and that creates a flourishing natural world. I am Programmes, Partnerships and Advocacy Director for Embrace the Middle East – an organisation that works to support Middle East Christians as they tackle poverty and injustice in vulnerable and marginalised communities.

Academically, I have a theology degree from Cambridge and a doctorate from Kings College London, in which I looked at simplicity and consumerism and particularly at the relationship between Thomas Aquinas’ virtues of temperance and justice. I also hold honorary doctorates from the Universities of Winchester and Chichester and am Canon Theologian at Rochester Cathedral.

I have written extensively on justice, environment and lifestyle issues. See the Publications pages for more information. I enjoy public speaking and am a regular media contributor.

My Christian faith and spirituality are central to my life, and from this bedrock comes a deep desire to work for social justice, equality and ecological flourishing. My home church is part of the 24/7 Prayer network of churches, but I feel comfortable  connecting across denominations and church networks, and am also very comfortable outside the faith sphere too!"

You can contact and learn more about Ruth Valerio at ruthvalerio.net

More about Forrest Inslee including contact information can be found at his website www.circlewood.online

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In this engaging conversation, Christine Sine and Al Tizon explore the complexities of identity, faith, and social justice. Al shares his experiences as a third culture kid and his transformative journey back to the Philippines as a missionary. They discuss the challenges of integrating theology with activism, the impact of classism, and the importance of solidarity with the marginalized. Al introduces six movements that can help individuals and communities live out the gospel in practical ways, emphasizing the need to confront comfort and embrace a life of service. The conversation concludes with reflections on the true essence of the Christian life and the call to prioritize God's project over personal comfort.

Takeaways

• The term 'third culture kid' describes a unique identity shaped by multiple cultures.
• Returning to the Philippines was a transformative experience for Al Tizon.
• Classism is a significant issue that infiltrates and affects the church and society.
• The six movements towards solidarity can guide individuals in their faith journey.
• Community engagement is essential for living out the gospel.
• Comfort can often hinder true engagement.
• The church must respond to current social challenges with compassion and action.
• Life in Christ offers a richer fulfillment than the pursuit of comfort.

Rev. Dr. Al Tizon is lead pastor of Grace Fellowship Community Church in San Francisco, CA and affiliate professor of missional and global leadership at North Park Theological Seminary in Chicago, IL.

​​Al has engaged in community development, church leadership, advocacy, and urban ministry in the United States and in the Philippines. Previous positions he has held include executive minister of Serve Globally, the international ministries of the Evangelical Covenant Church denomination; holistic ministry director and then president of Christians for Social Action and associate professor of holistic ministry at Palmer Theological Seminary of Eastern University near Philadelphia, PA.

Al is the author or editor of seven books, including Whole & Reconciled: Gospel, Church, and Mission in a Fractured World (Baker Academic, 2018) and Christ Among the Classes: The Rich, the Poor, and the Mission of the Church (Orbis, 2023). Al received his BA in religious studies (1984) and his MA in church leadership studies (1987) from Vanguard University of Southern California (Costa Mesa, CA). He received his PhD in missiology from the Graduate Theological Union (2005, Berkeley, CA). Al is an ordained minister of the Evangelical Covenant Church.

​Al and his wife Janice live in the San Francisco Bay Area, in close proximity to their four grown children and seven grandchildren.

You can learn more and contact Al on his website.

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In this conversation, Christine Sine and Ruth discuss the intersection of theology, gender, and social justice. Ruth shares her personal history growing up in Argentina during a military dictatorship, which shaped her passion for peace and justice. They explore the challenges faced by women in theology, the importance of community living, and the role of environmental stewardship. The conversation also touches on the impact of political decisions on migration and refugee support, and concludes with a discussion on maintaining hope in chaotic times.

Takeaways

• Ruth's personal history in Argentina shaped her passion for justice.
• The importance of community support for women in theology.
• Navigating gender issues in theological education is challenging.
• Intentional communities can foster hope and resilience.
• Environmental stewardship is a vital aspect of community life.
• Political decisions significantly impact migration and refugee support.
• God's intent is for the flourishing of all creation.
• Hope can be nourished through community engagement.
• Theological work should reflect embodied commitments.
• Living out faith involves seeking justice and God's reign.

Ruth yearns to see peace and justice embrace in the beautiful and broken world we call home. A wife of one and mother of many, theologian, missiologist, educator, and storyteller, she has been involved in leadership development and theological education for integral mission in her native Latin America for several decades. She teaches at Western Theological Seminary (https://www.westernsem.edu) land serves with the Comunidad de Estudios Teológicos Interdisciplinarios (CETI – www.ceticontinental.org, a learning community with students across Latin America), and with INFEMIT (International Fellowship for Mission as Transformation –www.infemit.org). She serves on the board of the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies and the American Society of Missiology. She lives with her husband, James, in Costa Rica as a member of Casa Adobe, an intentional Christian Community with deep concern for right living in relation to the whole of creation(www.casaadobe.org). Her studies include a Bachelors in Education (Argentina), an MA in Interdisciplinary Studies (Wheaton College), and a PhD in Theology (Boston University).

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In this engaging conversation, Christine Sine and Kendall Vanderslice explore the spiritual significance of bread making, discussing its biblical roots, the art of baking as a form of prayer, and the importance of community and tradition in the practice. They delve into the liturgical aspects of bread, seasonal recipes, and how bread making can be a meaningful Lenten practice. The discussion also touches on the science of sourdough, its digestibility, and the rich history behind traditional breads like hot cross buns, emphasizing the transformative power of incorporating bread making into our busy lives.

Takeaways

• Bread making can be a spiritual practice.
• The first mention of bread in the Bible is significant.
• Baking bread can be a form of prayer.
• Liturgy provides a structure for baking bread.
• Seasonal recipes connect us to the church calendar.
• Sourdough baking can be a Lenten practice.
• Bread symbolizes God's provision and presence.
• Incorporating bread making into life can foster rest.

Professional baker and practical theologian Kendall Vanderslice has spent a lot of time reflecting on the connection between the dough that clung to her hands at work and the bread blessed and pressed into her palm at church, ultimately seeing that they both were tangible reminders that God was with her and that God cared. Her most recent book is Bake and Pray: Liturgies and practices for baking bread as a spiritual practice.

Kendall can be reached at:
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In this episode of the Liturgical Rebels podcast, Christine Sine interviews Greg Valerio, a pioneer in the fair trade jewelry movement. Valerio shares his unexpected journey into the world of fair trade gold, discussing the challenges and dangers he has faced while advocating for ethical practices in the jewelry industry. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the role of faith in driving social justice initiatives. The conversation also touches on the recognition Valerio has received for his work and the ongoing need for transparency and justice in the mining sector. In this conversation, Greg Valerio and Christine Sine explore the intersection of faith, wealth, and social enterprise, particularly through the lens of Peace Gold, a social enterprise aimed at transforming conflict gold into ethical jewelry. They discuss the challenges of wealth in relation to faith, the importance of community and artisan crafts, and the impact of faith-based initiatives. Additionally, they delve into Celtic spirituality and its relevance in today's world, emphasizing the need to find Christ in the margins and the significance of indigenous expressions of faith.

Takeaways

• Greg Valerio is recognized as a leading figure in fair trade jewelry.
• His journey into jewelry was accidental and driven by faith.
• Community voices are essential in the fair trade movement.
• Valerio faced significant challenges and dangers in his work.
• Recognition like the MBE highlights the importance of the movement.
• Economic justice is a biblical mandate.
• Artisanal miners are often exploited in the jewelry industry.
• The conversation highlights the intersection of faith and social justice. Wealth can be seductive and often distorts faith.
• Peace Gold aims to transform conflict gold into ethical jewelry.
• Artisan jewelry making can revive local communities.
• Finding Christ in the margins is essential for true faith.
• Social entrepreneurs create pathways for others to follow.
• Understanding the land is crucial to faith and belonging.

Rooted in Christian beliefs in justice and peace for the common good, Greg Valerio describes his approach to campaigning, business and life as “faith in action.” He remains at the forefront of the ethical jewellery movement, challenging industry norms, pushing for greater accountability and urging jewellers to see themselves as stewards of both art and ethics. With plans to build an international network of ethical jewellers adopting PeaceGold for use in their jewellery creation and tell “the best gold story in the world,” he’s only just getting started.

In November 2024, Valerio unveiled the PeaceGold Ethical Jewellery House in
Bishop Auckland; a retail space, inviting customers to learn directly from Valerio
about PeaceGold’s mission and social impact, shop jewellery from a curated
selection of ethics-orientated jewellers, and learn the art of jewellery craftsmanship through in-house jewellery-making workshops with goldsmith Kate Seow. “PeaceGold is a community interest company on a mission to promote ethical jewellery practice and design, and to open up the genius and creativity of the jewellery trade to the wider public,” Valerio said on launch.

For more information on Greg and his adventures into fair trade gold check out Fair Trade God Uganda - An Answer to Prayer 

Greg Valerio can be found at:

• gregvalerio on Instagram, FB and LinkedIn
• peacegold.org
• peace-gold.com

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Christine Sine and Alan Hirsch discuss their long-standing friendship, Alan's multicultural background, and the impact of his experiences in apartheid South Africa on his worldview and faith. They explore Alan's spiritual transformation, his journey into writing, and the significance of his influential works, particularly in the context of the church's current challenges. In this conversation, Alan Hirsch and Christine Sine explore the centrality of Jesus in the church, the importance of living out Jesus' teachings, and the challenges faced by modern Christianity. They discuss the need for a reconstructive pathway in faith, emphasizing the significance of community and leadership in fostering spiritual growth. Hirsch shares insights from his book 'The Forgotten Ways,' highlighting the factors that contributed to the early church's exponential growth and the importance of maintaining a Jesus-centered approach in contemporary faith practices.

Takeaways

• Experiences of apartheid deeply influenced personal beliefs.
• Authenticity in the church is crucial for relevance today.
• The Beatitudes offer a more relevant guidance than the Ten Commandments.
• Alan's diverse background enriches his perspective on faith.
• The centrality of Jesus is crucial for the church.
• Jesus should define the character and content of the church.
• Gospel-centeredness can lead to a de-centering of Jesus.
• Reductionism in theology can lead to heresy.
• The early church grew without the structures we rely on today.
• A bigger understanding of Jesus which includes centering justice, compassion, and equality is necessary for growth.
• Deconstruction must lead to reconstruction in faith.
• Community and leadership are vital for spiritual growth.

Alan Hirsch is widely considered to be a global thought-leader on missional
movements and leadership.  Hirsch is the author of numerous award winning books including The Forgotten Ways, The Shaping of Things to Come, 5Q, ReJesus , Reframation, Untamed, and The Permanent Revolution.  He has worked with churches and organizations across the world, but mainly in North America, Europe, and Australia.
Alan is a founder of the Movement Leaders Collective, Forge Mission Training Network, and the 5Q Collective. He is movement mentor for NewThing International and is a consultant for Redeemer City To City among others. His experience includes leading a local church movement among the marginalized, developing training systems for innovative missional leadership, training leaders in movement dynamics, and heading up the mission and revitalization work of his denomination.

Alan Hirsch can be found at:
Author & Activist   | alanhirsch.org
Founder & Co-Leader | movementleaderscollective.com
Founder & Coach. | 5QCentral.com
Founder & Advisor | Forge International
Movement Mentor | NewThing
Resident Consultant  | Redeemer City To City
Leadership Developer | NOVO

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Christine Sine and Sarah Augustine delve into the Doctrine of Discovery, its historical implications for Indigenous peoples, and the ongoing impact of colonial policies, particularly the ramifications of boarding schools. They discuss the deep-rooted effects of child removal and cultural erasure, while also exploring the intersection of faith and social justice. In this conversation, Christine Sine and Sarah Augustine explore the devastating impact of the damming of Celilo Falls on local Indigenous culture, and the need for a shift from charity to repair in supporting Indigenous communities. They discuss the importance of land back programs and how white people can effectively support Indigenous movements towards decolonization and environmental stewardship.

Takeaways

• The Doctrine of Discovery is a legal and policy structure that defines reality for Indigenous peoples. It has been used to disrupt culture and destroy entire economies.
• It has been incorporated into legal systems globally including the UN charter, affecting Indigenous rights and sovereignty.
• The boarding school system was a form of cultural genocide, stripping Indigenous children of their identity and removing people from their land.
• Child removal is a method to erase cultures and communities and a significant cause of intergenerational trauma.
• Christian institutions were crucial for the boarding school system, usually under the guise of "civilizing" Indigenous children.
• There is a need for a radical re-examination of faith in the context of social justice. Jesus came to the marginalized, not the powerful.
• Self-determination is critical for Indigenous communities.
• Charity reinforces power imbalances; repair acknowledges historical injustices.
• Collective action is more powerful than individual efforts.

Sarah Augustine, who is a Pueblo (Tewa) descendant, is co- founder and Executive
Director of the Coalition to Dismantle the Doctrine of Discovery. She is also the
co-founder of Suriname Indigenous Health Fund (SIHF), where she has worked in
relationship with vulnerable Indigenous Peoples since 2005. She has represented
the interests of Indigenous community partners to their own governments, the
Inter-American development bank, the UN, the Organization of American States Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, the WHO, and a host of other international actors including corporate interests. She is a columnist for Anabaptist World, and co-hosts the Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery podcast with Sheri Hostetler. She has taught at Heritage University, CWU, and Goshen College. In Washington State she serves in a leadership role on multiple boards and commissions to enable vulnerable peoples to speak for themselves in advocating for structural change. She is author of the book The Land Is Not Empty: Following Jesus in Dismantling the Doctrine of Discovery (Herald Press 2021), and co-author, with Sheri Hostetler, of So We and Our Children May Live: Following Jesus in Confronting the Climate Crisis (Herald Press 2023).

Contact information

Sarah Augustine:

• website: www.dismantlediscovery.org
• Facebook: @dismantlediscovery.org
• Instagram: @dismantlediscovery.org
• YouTube: @dismantlingthedoctrineofdi7536

Christine Sine:

• Walking In Wonder on Substack
• website Godspacelight
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In this episode of the Liturgical Rebels podcast, Randy Woodley shares his diverse life journey, rooted in his Native American heritage and shaped by his experiences in Western Christianity. He discusses the challenges and insights gained from his faith journey, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous values and the concept of Eloheh, which represents living in harmony. Woodley also reflects on his book, 'Shalom and the Community of Creation,' exploring the values that promote a harmonious existence within communities and the natural world. In this conversation, Christine Sine and Randy Woodley delve into the profound themes of harmony, Shalom, and Indigenous values. They explore the interconnectedness of creation and the importance of living in harmony with the environment and each other. Woodley shares ecological and spiritual insights from his children's book 'The Harmony Tree'. The discussion also touches on his collaborative work with his wife Edith at the Eloheh Indigenous Center for Earth Justice, emphasizing the need for regenerative practices and the teaching of Indigenous spirituality. They conclude with a reflection on universal values that can lead to a more stable and happy society.

Takeaways

• Randy Woodley questioned the assimilation into Western Christianity and sought a deeper understanding of his Native heritage.
• Woodley emphasizes the disconnect between Western Christianity and the teachings of Jesus.
• He believes that God works outside traditional church settings. He and his wife, Edith, decided to follow Jesus within their own native cultural context.
• Eloheh represents the idea of living in harmony and peace within Indigenous cultures.
• The concept of Shalom encompasses living in harmony with creation and community. It is a way of living, not just a greeting.
• Woodley identifies core values shared among various Indigenous peoples.
• The Eloheh Indigenous Center promotes Earth justice and teaches Indigenous spirituality.
• Decolonizing and indigenizing is a journey for everyone.
• Storytelling is critical for passing on values.

Rev. Dr. Randy Woodley is the co-founder, with his wife, Edith, of Eloheh Indigenous Center for Earth Justice and Eloheh Farm & Seeds in Yamhill, Oregon, a regenerative teaching farm.  He is a Cherokee descendent recognized by the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians and is Distinguished Professor of Faith and Culture Emeritus at Portland Seminary.  Randy has written numerous chapters, articles, and 13 books including Becoming Rooted and Journey to Eloheh which he co-authored with his wife. The Woodley's have been serving Indigenous people and others for over four decades. See eloheh.org

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In this engaging conversation, Christine Sine interviews Rev. Danae Ashley, an Episcopal priest and psychotherapist, exploring her journey of faith, the significance of liturgy, and the role of rituals in therapy, particularly in the context of fertility struggles and liminal times. Rev. Ashley shares her unique perspective on how liturgy shapes personal faith and community, and how rituals can help individuals navigate complex emotional experiences. In this conversation, Rev. Danae Ashley shares her insights on healing through personal rituals, the importance of community engagement, and the significance of Hildegard von Bingen's legacy. The discussion explores how rituals can help individuals navigate life's transitions and the transformative experience of pilgrimage. Rev. Ashley also delves into her newfound purpose in connecting Hildegard's teachings with psychotherapy, emphasizing the intertwining of spirituality and mental health.

Takeaways

• Rev. Danae Ashley emphasizes the importance of community in spiritual journeys.
• Liturgy is a powerful tool for shaping personal faith and identity.
• Rituals provide a framework for understanding and processing life's transitions.
• Art and creativity play a vital role in healing and therapy.
• Rev. Ashley's journey reflects a deep connection to her faith and community.
• Understanding the history and meaning of liturgy enhances spiritual practice.
• Rituals in therapy can create a safe space for exploring grief and loss. 
• Rituals help mediate big feelings in life.
• Pilgrimages can lead to unexpected discoveries.
• The teachings of Hildegard von Bingen, a polymath and healer, can inform psychotherapy.
• Understanding Hildegard deepens our connection to nature.
• The intersection of spirituality and mental health is vital.

The Rev. Danáe Ashley is an Episcopal priest and licensed marriage and family therapist who has ministered with parishes in North Carolina, New York, Minnesota, and the Seattle area and is a psychotherapist at Soul Spa Seattle, LLC. Danáe uses art, music, drama, poetry, and movement in counseling, spiritual direction, and creation of ritual. She has written for a variety of publications, as well as being a contributor to podcasts, books, and producing a play about fertility struggle. Her latest adventure has been on pilgrimage with St. Hildegard von Bingen: speaking and writing about Hildegard, viriditas, and psychotherapy. She is working on her forthcoming book about these subjects. Danae's favorite pastimes include reading, traveling with her husband, making sure their rescue dog Cooper is living his best life, dancing with wild abandon to Celtic music, and serious karaoke.

Learn more about Rev. Ashley's work at soulspaseattle.com.

Website: https://www.soulspaseattle.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/soulspaseattle
IG: @soulspaseattle   

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It’s time to wind up Liturgical Rebels for the year. With the approach of the festive season - Thanksgiving next week, then Advent and Christmas, I need a break from the very exciting but intense work of podcasting. This will give you a chance to catch up on those episodes you intended to listen to but have not had time for. I hope you have enjoyed the inaugural season of Liturgical Rebels. Would love to hear what feedback you have for me. What have you enjoyed on Liturgical Rebels this year? How could I improve the podcast? What kinds of guests would you like me to interview? 

In this reflective conversation, Christine Sine and Forrest Inslee discuss the journey of the Liturgical Rebels podcast over the past year. They explore the diverse voices and perspectives that have been featured, the challenges of engaging an audience, and the personal growth that has come from hosting the podcast. They also look ahead to the future, emphasizing the importance of feedback and the need for new theological perspectives in a changing world.

Takeaways

• Christine reflects on the podcast accomplishments and highlights of interviews with artists, poets, and theologians over the past year.
• Forrest praises Christine for her commitment to podcasting.
• Diverse voices are vital for rethinking faith practices.
• The concept of a playful God challenges traditional views of theology.
• Audience engagement and accessibility of terminology are discussed as ongoing challenges.
• Christine emphasizes the need for feedback from listeners to improve the podcast.
• Future episodes will explore the liturgical calendar and indigenous worldviews.
• The conversation touches on the importance for spiritual growth of adapting traditions to different perspectives and cultural contexts.
• Christine expresses a desire to help listeners reconstruct their faith in meaningful ways.

You can find out more about Forrest Inslee at Earthkeepers Podcast and Circlewood

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