The Collective Voice

In this conversation, Maddie Wiltse shares her journey of faith, education, and personal growth. She discusses her experiences in finding an affirming church community, her studies at Perkins School of Theology, and the integration of psychology and regenerative agriculture into her understanding of faith. Maddie reflects on the influential figures in her life, including her grandfathers and mentors, and emphasizes the importance of women in ministry. As she approaches graduation, she expresses her aspirations to mentor others and utilize her gifts in preaching and teaching. Maddie also shares her journey through various ministry paths, her experiences in campus ministry and working with our Next is Now project, and her ongoing exploration of faith and language. She discusses the importance of community for young adults navigating their faith post-college and the resources she is developing to support them. Maddie emphasizes the need for new language to express faith, especially for those who have deconstructed their beliefs, and highlights the significance of mentorship and community engagement in fostering a supportive environment for young adults.

Show Notes:

• Regenerative Farm Discipleship Podcast 

Chapters 00:10
Exploring Faith and Community Dynamics
03:02 Journey Through Education and Personal Growth
06:04 The Intersection of Psychology, Agriculture, and Faith
09:07 Influential Figures and Mentorship in Life
11:46 The Role of Women in Ministry
14:59 Future Aspirations and Mentoring Others
22:35 Exploring Ministry Paths
24:36 Reconstructing Faith and Language
30:44 The Importance of Language in Faith
35:51 Navigating Young Adult Faith Communities
44:17 Creating Resources for Post-College Faith
51:21 Future Projects and Initiatives

In this episode of the Collective Voice, we welcome Emma Rooker, who shares her journey in youth ministry, her process of discernment, and the importance of community and neighborhood connections. Emma discusses her experiences in Seattle and Portland, the challenges of finding a sense of belonging, and her dreams for the future in ministry and writing. The conversation explores the evolving nature of church beyond traditional buildings and the significance of creative expression in faith. In this conversation, Emma shares her journey of healing and creativity after moving to Portland, exploring the concept of family and community. She discusses her work as a creative nonfiction writer, delving into themes of grief, both personal and collective, and the church's role in addressing these emotions. Emma reflects on her diverse experiences with various worship traditions and how they shape her sense of belonging. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the natural world, particularly the impact of wildfires, and the beauty that can emerge from devastation.

Show Notes:

• Urban Impact Seattle
• Emma's Substack

Chapters
00:10 Welcome Back and Introduction
01:31 Emma Rooker's Journey in Ministry
04:21 The Process of Discernment
08:15 Building Community in a New City
12:40 Reconnecting with the Past
15:39 The Importance of Neighborhood and Community
22:36 The Future of Church Beyond Buildings
28:10 Dreams and Aspirations in Ministry and Writing
32:03 Exploring the Concept of Family and Community
33:05 The Art of Creative Nonfiction Writing
34:20 Understanding Grief: Personal and Collective
36:22 The Church's Role in Grief and Community
39:40 Navigating Worship Traditions and Personal Belonging
50:17 Finding Inspiration in the Natural World

In this episode, Alejandro Salazar shares his journey from studying public health to seminary, his ethical decision to decline a job at Amazon, and his vision for integrating a background in public health with ministry. We explore themes of faith, ethics, community, and the transition into seminary life.

Takeaways

• Making ethical decisions can shape your career path and impact.
• Faith and advocacy are deeply interconnected in public health work.
• Patience and understanding are crucial in youth and young adult ministry.
• Seminary is a time of deconstruction and questioning, which can be a positive process.
• Building intentional community and relationships is vital for sustainable ministry.
• Spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, and silence help stay grounded.
• Transition periods are opportunities for growth and new directions.
• Questioning one's faith identity is a normal part of seminary education.
• Interfaith understanding enriches faith and broadens perspectives.
• Taking a piece of your faith community with you can provide strength in new seasons.

Show Notes:

• First Presbyterian Church Fort Worth Young Adult Ministry
• Being Presbyterian in a Dysvangelical America
• Blood Brothers by Elias Chacour
• Austin Seminary

Chapters
00:10 Introduction and guest introduction
01:37 Alejandro's church background and early faith journey
02:09 College experiences and reconnecting with church
03:20 Transition from church member to staff role
04:36 Reflections on interim ministry and short-term roles
05:40 Decision to pursue seminary over a corporate job
08:20 Why Austin Seminary and the call to ministry
11:34 The intersection of public health and ministry
15:05 The role of health advocacy in faith communities
19:44 Challenges and fears about seminary life
21:59 Questioning faith and identity in seminary
35:47 Big questions and future hopes in ministry
43:17 Finding beauty and reflection during travel

In this episode, Addy Kruse from Gather Cincinnati shares her journey as a high school science teacher, her involvement in the Gather Network, and her insights on reclaiming the old church through community, intergenerational connections, and authentic faith practices. She shares vulnerably about aspects of faith she is wrestling with and why Cincinnati may be the city for you.

Show Notes:

• Gather Cincinnati
• Holden Village
• Thomas J Oord - Open and Relational Theology
• Mark Gregory Karris - Divine Echoes

Key Topics

• Gather Cincinnati's model and community impact
• Intergenerational connections and their importance
• Reclaiming the old church through authentic practices
• The role of worship, music, and shared stories
• Addressing doubts and questions about faith and prayer
• The significance of natural and sacred spaces in faith

Chapters
00:10 Introduction to the episode and guest
01:23 Meet Addy Kruse: Teacher and Gather Cincinnati Leader
03:07 How Gather Cincinnati Started and Its Impact
07:21 Addy's Experience with Church Leadership and Service
12:42 Reclaiming the Old Church and Authentic Worship
20:13 Diverse Beliefs and Managing Conflict in Gather
22:21 Addy's Faith Questions and Theological Reflections
36:30 The Significance of Sacred Places and Nature
43:01 Cincinnati's Unique Cultural and Community Spirit
47:24 Closing Remarks and Future Connections

In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Anna Bundy Hagler discusses with Cecie and Phil about the power of crafting hobbies like quilting to foster belonging, self-care, and intergenerational connection. They explore how these practices can inform church community life and deepen faith.

Takeaways:

• Crafting hobbies like quilting can serve as a form of self-soothing and emotional regulation.
• Intergenerational activities foster belonging and bridge age gaps in communities.
• Church communities can learn from social clubs about creating authentic connections.
• Asking thoughtful questions about joy and media influences deepens conversations.
• Church programs should consider more social and creative activities to attract young adults.

Chapters
00:10 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:21 The Rise of Grandma Hobbies
04:44 Quilting as a Means of Connection
09:12 Faith and Heirlooms: A Quilter's Perspective
12:33 Learning from Social Groups
20:58 Bridging Generational Gaps in Church Communities
26:37 Finding Beauty in Everyday Life
29:03 The Importance of Deep Connections
30:45 Preparing for Meaningful Conversations
34:29 The Role of Media in Shaping Lives
39:36 Influential Media and Personal Growth
43:55 Hopes for the Church and Community Engagement
46:29 Creative Ways to Connect with Young Adults
47:54 Looking Forward to New Experiences

This week we explore the transformative power of music in faith and community with Cassidi Jackson, a sacred music graduate and music director. Discover insights on worship styles, the role of mentorship, and the spiritual significance of music festivals like The Wild Goose Festival.

Show Notes:

• Wild Goose LeadNow! for Seminary Students and Emerging Faith Leaders
• Wild Goose Wild Space Tent for Young Adults with free registration link
• Sadie Johnson Music
• Hymn - Come, O thou Traveler Unknown
• Florence +The Machine
• MisterWives

Key Topics

• The role of music in spiritual connection
• Experiences at Wild Goose Festival and Wild Space Tent
• Balancing traditional and contemporary worship music
• The importance of mentorship in faith journeys
• The impact of music festivals on faith communities

Chapters
00:10 Introduction to the 787 Collective Voice Podcast
02:52 Exploring the Wild Goose Festival Experience
05:44 Authenticity in Sacred Spaces
11:55 The Journey of Self-Discovery in Seminary
17:55 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth
23:56 Innovating Music in Worship
29:24 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
31:12 The Role of Congregational Participation
33:36 Exploring Indie Hymn Writers
38:30 The Intersection of Secular and Sacred Music
44:09 Finding Beauty in Connection

This week's conversation features Rev. Caroline Grindrod and Rev. Annalise Deal sharing their journeys into ministry, faith deconstruction, and the importance of friendship and community in their spiritual lives. They discuss their diverse faith backgrounds, experiences with deconstruction, liberation theology, and how they find beauty and belonging in their work and personal lives. The beauty of their friendship is a true gift!

Show Notes:

• Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church in Dallas
• St. Jude's Episcopal Church in Cupertino

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Collective Voice Podcast
02:06 Journeys into Ministry: Caroline and Annalise's Stories
11:59 Faith Transformation and Deconstruction
19:52 The Role of Community in Faith Development
30:48 Exploring Liberation Theology and Its Impact
32:09 Friendship and Community in Ministry
34:17 Navigating Isolation as Young Clergy
36:43 Urban vs. Rural Ministry Dynamics
39:39 The Role of Friendship in Personal Growth
41:23 Engaging in Meaningful Dialogue
44:19 The Challenge of Progressive Conversations
49:30 Curiosity vs. Fundamentalism in Theology
51:49 Finding Common Ground in Diverse Communities
55:19 Celebrating the Beauty of Friendship and Parenthood

This week we explore the evolving landscape of young adult ministry, the importance of community, and the role of faith in college life with Reverend Carter Grant. Discover insights on belonging, ecumenical relationships, and the transformative power of church communities.

Show Notes:

• Ukirk campus ministry at the University of Texas
• University Presbyterian Church Austin
•  Passionate Marriage: Keeping Love and Intimacy Alive in Committed Relationships by David Schnarch, PhD

Key Topics

• The role of Ukirk in college ministry
• Building community and belonging among young adults
• Ecumenical partnerships and collaboration
• The importance of boundaries and self-care in ministry

Sound Bites

• "Belonging their way into belief"
• "Church as a space to just be"
• "What would Dolly do?"

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:02 Carter Grant's Role and Background
05:58 Transitioning to Ministry in Austin
10:56 Young Adults and Community Belonging
14:53 Navigating Church and Personal Life
18:48 Belonging and Belief in Modern Faith
23:47 Building Community Beyond the Church
24:41 Encouragement and Community Building
25:28 Belonging vs. Believing: The Young Adult Experience
26:14 The Pressure of Expectations on Young Adults
28:27 Creating Non-Performative Spaces in Ministry
31:05 The Importance of Rest and Enoughness
32:42 Finding Inspiration in Relationships and Counseling
39:22 The Role of the Church in Young Adult Lives
44:37 Deconstruction and Representation in Ministry

In this week's interview, Izzy Lopez shares her journey into youth ministry, the importance of community and mentorship, and how faith and creativity intersect through hobbies like sewing. She discusses transitions, the future of the church, and the significance of Sabbath and self-care for young adults.

Key Topics

• Journey into youth ministry and vocational calling
• The role of community and mentorship in faith development
• Transitions in young adulthood and church engagement
• The importance of Sabbath and self-care for spiritual health
• Innovative approaches to church and ministry for young adults

Show Notes:

• Master of Arts in Youth Ministry (MAYM) program at Austin Seminary
• St. John's UMC
• An Academic Affair by Jodi McAlister

Chapters
00:10 Introduction and Icebreakers
02:59 Understanding the Next Is Now Project
06:07 Izzy's Journey into Ministry
09:04 Mentorship and Guidance in Ministry
11:45 Navigating Transitions and Graduation
14:48 The Role of Creativity and Hobbies in Spirituality
22:52 The Flow of Spiritual Practices
24:39 Understanding the Importance of Sabbath
26:31 Self-Care vs. Soul Care
27:32 Balancing Work and Personal Life
29:44 Building Community in Ministry
34:00 Rituals and Transitions in Life
38:51 The Future of the Church
42:32 Finding Beauty in Everyday Life

In this week's conversation, Rev. Katie Jensen shares her journey of moving from urban to rural ministry, navigating faith, community, and personal identity. Discover how her experiences foster hope, belonging, and deeper connections in a small-town church setting.

Key Frameworks

• Building Bridges in Divided Communities
• Roots and Soil as Metaphors for Faith and Belonging

Sound Bites

• "Roots take time and patience to grow"
• "Building trust is essential to loving your neighbor"
• "Belonging is at the heart of faith and community"

Chapters
00:10 Introduction to The Collective Voice Podcast
02:10 Katie Jensen's Journey to Rural Ministry
10:55 Finding Faith in Rural Community
16:33 Navigating Divisions and Building Bridges
21:04 Hospitality and Inclusivity in Ministry
25:12 Navigating Celiac Disease and Self-Advocacy
28:07 Community Support and Social Challenges
31:30 Roots and Community Connection
48:49 Hope in Rural Congregations and Future of the Church