What role has Christian theology played in enabling and encouraging a culture where so many of us feel like our bodies are wrong? To be sure, many of us believe that our bodies are somehow wrong, and every January, we try to change our 'wrong bodies' while apologizing for the presumed discomfort our bodies rouse in others."

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After eight days have passed, Mary and Joseph circumcise their child and give him the name Jesus. They return to the temple in Jerusalem to enact the sacred birth rituals of their culture and tradition. How do our sacred rituals root us and help us live into new chapters with courage? As new parents, Mary and Joseph likely felt what all new parents feel – a mix of joy and weariness. How might grounding ourselves in ritual give us the courage to face the unknown? Conversation Question: Imagine you are Mary in this story. Recall Simeon's prophecy that a sword will "pierce your innermost being." Also, consider Luke 2:19 when Mary "ponders" the shepherds' message in her heart. How do you think Mary summons the courage to mother Christ How do you summon the courage to live into difficult callings?

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Experience the holy mystery of Christmas as we celebrate Christ's birth with music, scripture, prayer, preaching, communion, and candlelight. Featuring music from our Loft musicians, you are invited to sing beloved carols with us, share communion at our open table, and hold candlelight as we sing "Silent Night" together.

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Why are people drawn in by White Christian Nationalism? Is there anything progressive Christians can do to offset the terrible impact that WCN has on American democracy? Yes…and unfortunately it requires us to, on some level, engage with people we'd rather avoid.

In this episode we refer to Pamela Cooper-White's book "The Psychology of Christian Nationalism."

What does it sound like when unhoused young adults sing stories of hope? Join us this Sunday as Rev. Dr. Carter is joined by Anthony Conley, Director of Supportive Services for Covenant House California as they discuss the importance of hope during weary times.

In the first chapter of Luke we read that after Elizabeth exclaims blessings upon Mary, Mary sings: "My soul magnifies God; my spirit rejoices in God." Mary sings about a God of liberation who pulls the powerful from their thrones and lifts up the lowly. Mary sings a story of hope, one in which justice and joy are interwoven. As we prepare to celebrate Christ's birth, may we also sing stories of hope, justice, and joy.

Question to consider – What gives you a "thrill of hope?" If you were to write a song of hope, what would the lyrics be? www.TheLoftLA.org

What is the political theology of White Christian Nationalism and what are the dangers of this political theology for our democracy?

In this third of a four part series on White Christian Nationalism, Julia, Rev. Dr. Carter, and special guest Dr. Andy Tirrell, Associate Professor of Politcal Science at The University of San Diego, examine these questions and discuss what strategies progressives can employ to counteract the rising influence of these un-democratic beliefs.

After Elizabeth gives birth, her neighbors and family celebrate with her. When it comes time to name the child, Zechariah affirms the name given by the angel and by Elizabeth. In that moment of affirming the promise, Zechariah's speech is restored. Everyone is filled with awe. How often do you allow yourself to be amazed? Wonder is all around us—can we recognize it? As we learn how to rejoice in a weary world, can we live in a way that allows amazement and wonder to surprise us often?

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What are the theological foundations of White Christian Nationalism? How are these beliefs used to support the marginalization of queer folk? What are their impact on young people? In this second of a four part series on White Christian Nationalism, Westley, Rev. Dr. Carter, and special guest Everest examin these questions and discuss the limitations of these theological beliefs.

In this episode we reference the following:

1. 1946 - A documentary on the history of translating the bible to include the word "homosexual." More information can be found at https://www.1946themovie.com

2. The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill - podcast by Christianity Today.

Mothers have always had to depend upon each other for guidance and support during difficult times. We see this in the story of Mary and Martha in the Gospel of Luke and we see it today, especially in middle class and poor communities. In today's Gathering, Rev. Dr. Carter speaks with Jenniffer Duran-West, the Employee Development Manager for the Lundquist Institute WIC program, and they explore the importance of community for mothers, parents and caregivers, whose backs are against the wall.

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What is White Christian Nationalism and why might it be the biggest threat to Christianity and democracy in America today?

In this first of a four part series on White Christian Nationalism, Julia, Westley, and Rev. Dr. Carter begin to disentangle what White Christian Nationalism is, what it isn't, and how the deep stories of the founding of America are mythologized to create this dangerous political theology.

In this episode we reference the following books: Jemar Tisby's "The Color of Compromise," Joe Feagin's "The White Racial Frame," and "The Flag & the Cross" by Philip Gorski and Samuel Perry.