Over the last number of centuries the fields of science and religion appear to have shared a somewhat turbulent relationship. Many assert the basic incompatibility of the two, dismissing the validity of religious belief and arguing for the ultimate viability of the scientific method. Others see no conflict at all, claiming a complementary nature between the two fields. So what are we to think? Is it possible that Christianity and science are truly compatible?

Join guest host Ridge Marketing and Communication Manager Dayne Logan and Ridge Director of Discipleship Will Herron as they seek to answer this question and more in series 2 episode 1 of Big Questions of Faith.

Resources: Cosmic Chemistry: Do God and Science Mix? (John Lennox) / Enriching our Vision of Reality (Alistair McGrath)

It’s not exaggeration to say the practice of silence and solitude is a lost art. No doubt the rise in accessibility to entertainment, news and a global social network has contributed to this trend. We’ve never had more opportunity to be occupied or distracted. But is silence and solitude something we need to fight for in any case? Are we really loosing out by not regularly inhabiting these quiet spaces with God?  

Join series host Will Herron and special guest Brandy Young as they talk about the challenges, benefits, and practical ins and outs of practicing silence and solitude. 

Resources: The Way of the Heart (Henri Nouwen) / Invitation into Solitude and Silence (Ruth Hailey Barton)

It’s no secret that prayer is one of the biggest challenges for many Christians. While there may be several reasons for that trend, most end up feeling a sense of discouragement, guilt or even frustration at their lack of ability or consistency in prayer. But what if some of that tension is caused by a misconception of what prayer actually is? How might prayer look different if it was less ritual and more relational? 

Join series host Will Herron and special guest Brandy Young as they finish out this series by discovering how we can move from a “should do” to a “want to” attitude in prayer.

Resources: How to Pray: A Simple Guide for Normal People (Pete Greig) / Prayer (Tim Keller) 

For some, personal reflection comes easily (almost too easily!). Yet for others, spending time quietly processing can be a challenge or simply dismissed as self-indulgent. Yet as we look at Jesus’ life, retreating into spaces to pray, reflect and hear from the Father seems to have been a regular practice. So how can we look to incorporate these kinds of spaces into our lives? How can we create a healthy habit of self-reflection where we allow God to speak into our lives on a consistent basis? 

Join series host Will Herron and special guest Brandy Young as they explore how we can grow in this practice in a healthy and constructive way.

Resources: Using Self-Examination for Spiritual Formation (Joe Carter)

The concept of a “retreat” can bring to mind various images and ideas. For some it might be a walk in the woods, for others a quiet weekend escape to the beach. But in what ways might a “spiritual retreat” look different? What are some of the challenges we might face within that space, and how do we overcome them? 

Join Ridge U host Will Herron and special guest Brandy Young as they discuss these questions and more in episode 2 of our Spiritual Practices series.   

Resources: Invitation to Retreat: The Gift and Necessity of Time Away with God (Ruth Hailey Barton) / Lighthouse Ministries at Third Church in Pella / Transforming Community Retreats

Someone once said, “Your habits will determine your future.” While there’s surely more to it, there is no doubt the things we do repetitively impact our lives on a large scale. 

In this first episode of Live Better: Spiritual Practices to Live By, host Will Herron and trained spiritual director Brandy Young explore the why behind spiritual practices. Join them as they discuss the essential role these practices play in living the kind of life God intends for us. 

Resources: The Celebration of Discipline (Richard Foster) / Sacred Rhythms (Ruth Hailey Barton)

Join Ridge U hosts Will Herron and Joni Pine as they embark on a festive extravaganza of comedy, competitive Christmas games, and even some carol renditions too!

Featuring special guests, Mindy Schardt and Gavin Jerome.

PS: if you missed out on last years Christmas episode, don't fret! You can listen in here.

For many families, the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia is overwhelming.  For some the diagnosis is swift and horrifying; for others the slow progression gives us time to prepare.  What are some things that would be helpful in caring for a parent with Alzheimers or another dementia?
Join guest host and Leadership Director Julie Wiemann and Ridge friend Gavin Jerome as discuss some practical ways to care for parents with Alzheimers.

For many people, caring for their elderly parents is an honor, but also can be extremely difficult.  Sibling support is sometimes available, but there are times when even that is not an option.  So how can we navigate well the various challenges that come with caring for elderly parents?

Join guest host and Leadership Director Julie Wiemann and Ridge members David & Tara Erredge as they explore some common challenges and helpful tips in caring for aging parents.

Resources: ⁠Finding home health care

For further questions, please contact us at [email protected]
#aging #agingparents #endoflife #endoflifediscussions #palliativevshospicecare #palliativecare #hospicecare

While death is inevitable for us all, having discussions with our loved ones about medical interventions and end of life is difficult.  So what kinds of conversations should we have with our aging parents or elderly family?  How can medical professionals assist in those discussions?
Join guest host and Leadership Director Julie Wiemann and Family Medicine Doctor Christina Goebel as they explore some key topics in regards to caring for aging parents.
Resources: Always consult a qualified and trained medical professional for further information.

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande
IPOST Form (state of Iowa)
Medical Power of Attorney
The difference between palliative care and hospice
For further questions, please contact us at [email protected]
#aging #agingparents #endoflife #endoflifediscussions #palliativevshospicecare #palliativecare #hospicecare