We welcome Dr. Cleve Tinsley to the podcast this week. Dr. Cleve V. Tinsley IV is a scholar of American religion, race, and culture. He earned his MA and PhD in religion from Rice University where he concentrated in the study of African-American religions, primarily utilizing historical and social-scientific research methods. John and Matt listen as Dr. Tinsley contributes his perspective on race, religion and ways that we can learn from those outside of our community. 

John and Matt discuss how the pandemic is affecting those in Houston and how the church should respond in a countercultural way. 

John and Matt have a zoom call with Shane Green and Dr. Jimmy Asbell, two Georgia-based pastors and longtime friends of John Stephens. They discuss reopening churches and the similarities between Texas and Georgia. John and Matt also discuss Ahmaud Arbery and how we are called to respond to those in our community who are in need. 

John sits down with Melissa Maher, the Lead Pastor of Mercy Street. Melissa updates us on the state of those struggling with addiction and how her ministry is providing spiritual care. John discusses why it is hard to love others and provides some wisdom from The Desert Fathers. 

John and Matt have a zoom conversation with Dr. Jerry Webber where they discuss faith, fasting and Kung Fu movies. Dr. Webber is the founder of Chapelwood's Center for Christian Spirituality where he served as lead pastor for 18 years. He is now a teacher, spiritual guide, writer, and retreat leader by vocation. 

John and Matt join Bill Kerley, a counselor and spiritual director. Bill gives helpful insights on ways we can engage in spiritual practices during this time. 

John and Matt have a conversation with Dr. Marc Boom, the President and CEO of Houston Methodist Hospital. Dr. Boom shares practical social distancing insights and ways we can help flatten the curve.

Sonja Gee, President and CEO of Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM), discusses the greatest challenges that lower income families are facing during COVID19 and how people can get involved. John and Matt weigh-in on new developments in the community and in their lives as we continue quarantine in Houston.  

John and Matt sit down with Rachel Sciretti to discuss ways that parents can help our kids in the midst of social distancing and how the local church is giving back to the community.