Show Notes: To Be snd Do

In this heartfelt "Because" episode of "To Be and Do," Philip Amerson explores the current reality of the American church, drawing insights from books and sociological perspectives while offering a message of hope. The conversation is anchored by reflections on Ryan Burge's newest book, The Vanishing Church, and the shifting role of faith communities in today's society.

Episode Summary:

Philip Amerson opens by sharing two books that have been making an impact in discussions around faith in America—Separation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang and The Vanishing Church by Ryan Burge. He dives deeper into Burge's analysis, bringing his own critique and optimism to the conversation. While acknowledging the decline in mainline churches and reflecting on changes since the mid-20th century, Philip Amerson offers a counter-narrative grounded in the ongoing, meaningful work of congregations nationwide.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Changing Demographics Shaped Church Growth and Decline
2. Philip Amerson points out that the rise and fall of mainline church attendance is strongly tied to broader sociological shifts. After World War II, churches flourished due to larger families and increased community focus (01:44). But as family sizes shrank in subsequent decades, the physical and social structures of churches had to adapt—highlighting the importance of context in understanding religious trends.
3. Faith Communities Are More Than Commodities
4. Challenging the tendency to measure church health only through numbers, Philip Amerson urges listeners to see faith as a community to be built rather than a commodity to be counted (02:29). He stresses that the deep, transformative work of congregations isn’t always captured by statistics, and that real growth and hope exist in places where faith is nurtured as a communal experience.
5. A Message of Hope: Slow Growth, Deep Impact
6. Despite data showing decline, Philip Amerson believes there are many churches quietly thriving through small, steady steps. He references the ministry of Rev. Dr. Brad Miller and other congregations as examples of hope and meaningful change (02:43). The episode closes with a reminder that what churches offer—faith, love, and transformation—cannot be measured in gold or silver, but in the value they bring to lives and communities.

Tune in for an uplifting exploration of the complexities facing today’s church, a critical look at statistical analyses, and encouraging stories of faith in action.

In this timely and candid episode of the To Be and Do podcast, host Philip Amerson sits down with immigration attorney Christie Popp to unpack the evolving—and often alarming—landscape of asylum and immigration policy in the U.S. today. Christie Popp, a founding attorney at Popp and Bullman in Bloomington, Indiana, offers a rare, ground-level view into the lives affected by shifting regulations, political pressure, and the consequences of silence in times of injustice.

The episode dives headlong into the unsettling reality of frequent immigration law changes. Christie Popp points out that nearly 600 modifications to the immigration system have occurred in just over a year, particularly impacting asylum seekers and immigration courts. She highlights how these changes, rarely covered in-depth by mainstream media, are shifting the "rules of the game" even as vulnerable individuals' cases are pending, creating both logistical hurdles and a culture of fear.

A significant portion of the conversation centers on the particular struggles of Afghans, many of whom were allies to U.S. forces and entered the country through both formal and perilous, unofficial routes. Christie Popp details how these individuals—once celebrated—are now viewed with suspicion. Their cases, along with others, are subject to delays and retroactive review, subjecting them to potential loss of status and deportation on tenuous grounds—often for actions they had no real choice but to take.

The discussion broadens to address the chilling effect these policies have on free speech and public protest, especially among immigrants, academics, and their allies. The fear of being detained or targeted for voicing dissent is stifling civic engagement, even among those who are U.S. citizens. Both Philip Amerson and Christie Popp reflect on why these authoritarian patterns haven't sparked more outcry from the public and government leaders.

Despite the weighty subject matter, Christie Popp offers ways to take meaningful action—supporting local organizations, contacting representatives, and lending both time and resources are all encouraged. She also shares her personal strategies for maintaining resilience and hope in such difficult work.

Key Takeaways:

1. Constantly Shifting Laws: The immigration system is changing at an unprecedented pace, making asylum increasingly inaccessible and causing confusion for both immigrants and advocates.
2. Afghan Allies at Risk: Many Afghan asylum seekers, previously welcomed as allies, now face suspicion, paused applications, and retrospective investigations that could result in deportation.
3. Chilling Effect on Free Speech: Fear of detention or deportation is silencing many immigrants and their allies, undermining not only immigrant rights but also America's broader democratic ideals.
4. How to Help: Local and national organizations need support more than ever, and individual advocacy—through donations, volunteering, or political engagement—can have a significant impact.
5. Staying Resilient:
6. Christie Popp
7. emphasizes the importance of self-care and community, encouraging listeners to seek sources of hope and to care for themselves as they work for justice.

This episode is a vital listen for anyone concerned about the state of immigration, human rights, and democracy in the United States.

https://poppbullman.com/christie-popp/contact-christie/

In this moving episode of “To Be and Do,” Philip Amerson shares a poignant reflection on faith, community, and the power of quiet resistance. Drawing from personal memories and the events in Minneapolis, Philip Amerson recounts a stirring story from Evansville, Indiana in the late 1980s. When the Ku Klux Klan attempted to sow fear and division following attacks in his neighborhood, Philip Amerson and his group, Patchwork Ministries, faced a decision that would test their commitment to faith and peaceful action.

Three Key Takeaways:

1. Gentle Resistance Can Bring Peace:
2. Instead of protesting the Klan’s meeting using loud opposition, the faith group opted for Stella’s simple yet profound suggestion: attend the meeting, pray with people, and respond in quiet kindness. This approach, driven by empathy and faith, diffused tensions in the sanctuary and allowed attendees to see one another more clearly—reminding us that sometimes, the most transformative action is the calmest.
3. Relationships Transform Lives:
4. After reaching out and building relationships—even with those involved in hate groups—Philip Amerson witnessed the power of connection. Inspired by advice from Will Campbell to learn the names of Klan members and treat them as individuals, Philip Amerson eventually saw a young Klan member become a regular attendee at worship. The act of acceptance and understanding paved the way for unexpected transformation.
5. Faith in Action Means Living Differently:
6. The story reaches its emotional climax when the young man drops his revolver and Klan membership card into the offering plate—a symbol of profound personal change. This powerful moment underscores Philip Amerson’s central message: as people of faith, we are called to live differently, building bridges through compassion, prayer, and hope. Small acts of kindness can not only defuse hate but invite healing and redemption.

Memorable Quotes:

1. “Sometimes the message we share is one that is built around building a relationship and touching people gently and quietly…”
2. “God bless you, just because we have the opportunity to live differently as people of faith.”

Tune in for this heartfelt narrative exploring the subtle strength of faith and the capacity for redemption in every human encounter.

Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast

In this eye-opening episode of the To Be and Do podcast, hosts Philip Amerson and Phil Emerson sit down with attorney Christie Popp, a founding partner at Popp and Bullman Law Offices, to demystify the realities of immigration law and its intersection with current U.S. judicial practices. Christie Popp offers a candid, accessible overview of how immigration enforcement really works and the everyday injustices faced by immigrants—especially in Indiana and the broader United States. Whether you’re new to these topics or seeking a deeper understanding, this conversation sheds light on critical, often-misunderstood issues within our legal system.

1. The True Nature of ICE and Immigration Enforcement

Christie Popp breaks down the role of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), clarifying that—contrary to common public perception—most immigration violations are civil, not criminal offenses. ICE operates differently from standard law enforcement: they don’t require a judge’s warrant to detain someone suspected of an immigration violation. Instead, a supervising ICE official alone can authorize an arrest, a stark departure from the checks and balances traditional police must follow. This gray area results in practices that skirt constitutional protections and often target individuals based on ethnicity or language.

2. The Problem with Immigration Holds and Local Enforcement

The conversation delves into how local jails interact with ICE through what are called “immigration holds.” Christie Popp underscores that ICE can request local jails to detain individuals—who have already been cleared for release—for up to 48 hours purely on suspicion of a civil immigration violation. This practice leads to unconstitutional detention for civil (not criminal) reasons, trapping many non-violent individuals, often arrested for minor infractions like driving without a license, in a complicated legal web. The system is deeply flawed, as it penalizes people on civil grounds and disproportionately affects Latino communities.

3. Economic Hardships Within the Detention System

Beyond legal injustices, Christie Popp highlights the pervasive economic burdens placed on detained individuals. Many face exorbitant fees for basic necessities—such as phone calls or commissary items—in jail, and those in immigration detention centers often perform mandatory labor despite having committed no crime. These policies not only capitalize on vulnerable populations but also underscore how the criminal and immigration systems have become increasingly punitive, even toward those who are simply seeking a better life.

Key Quote:

“ICE is really supposed to be a civil enforcement agency; they don’t get warrants from the court... The only person who is signing off on the arrest is a supervising official within the agency.” — Christie Popp

Further Resources:

Check the episode’s website for additional materials and YouTube links referenced by Philip Amerson and Christie Popp.

Don’t miss this essential listen if you want to better understand the complexities of immigration law and the often-unseen obstacles faced by immigrants in America today.

https://poppbullman.com/christie-popp/contact-christie/

In this heartful episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson welcomes back Mark Feldmeir, lead pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, and author of Life After God: Finding Faith When You Can't Believe Anymore. Their conversation invites listeners into a rich exploration of where joy is found in our lives, what it means to serve, and the importance of purpose, even amid life's challenges.

After opening with a charming story of conversing with statues on the campus of Indiana University, Philip Amerson pivots to a powerful question he’s asked others: “What brings you joy?” This moment sets the tone for the episode, prompting Mark Feldmeir to distinguish between happiness—a fleeting, circumstantial feeling—and joy, which he sees as enduring and deeply rooted in meaningful service.

The journey of the episode travels through stories of "good tired," the type of exhaustion that comes from giving oneself to a purpose larger than the self. Mark Feldmeier shares a vivid memory from a mission trip, where circumstances were less than ideal, yet the experience of serving and persevering fostered an unshakable sense of joy. This leads to a broader reflection on the "tug between joy and exhaustion" that defines much of modern life, especially for those in calling-centered work.

Mark's reading habits offer another window into his approach to growth and inspiration. He discusses maintaining a robust reading practice—even through demanding seasons—and credits mentors and writers for shaping his preaching and language. This episode pays homage to the power of words, poetry, and stories to form us, both in the pulpit and in everyday life.

Near the close, listeners are offered a glimpse into the objects that keep Mark Feldmeier grounded: a labyrinth coaster reminding him that the journey is more important than the endpoint, and a Camino tile symbolizing trust in the next step rather than the entire plan—a perfect metaphor for faith and life.

Key Takeaways:

1. Joy transcends circumstances: Rather than fleeting happiness, lasting joy often emerges from connecting our sense of purpose with service to others.
2. Service and calling sustain us: Even during exhaustion and adversity, being rooted in a mission larger than ourselves offers resilience and hope.
3. Reading shapes language and leadership: Ongoing learning and exposure to great literature deepen the artistry and effectiveness of communication, whether in sermons or in daily life.
4. Symbols help orient our journey: Objects or reminders—a labyrinth, a Camino tile—can anchor us and illustrate that the journey itself is formative.
5. Find meaning in the journey: We don’t need to know every step of the path; faithfully taking the next turn can be enough for progress and growth.

This thoughtful exchange is both grounding and uplifting, inviting listeners to reflect on where joy comes from, how to serve with purpose, and how to walk the journey of faith and life with authenticity and hope.

For more conversations like this, subscribe to To Be and Do and join us on the journey of becoming and doing with joy.

https://www.markfeldmeir.com/

In this thought-provoking episode of "To Be and Do," host Philip Amerson reflects on the critical vocation of faith leaders, peeling back the layers of what it means to serve as a pastor today. The discussion centers around the need for genuine encouragement and support among clergy, especially in a landscape that often prioritizes performance, competition, and constant improvement over authentic connection.

Philip Amerson opens with heartfelt acknowledgment of pastors—those performing "heavy lifting work" that often goes unseen and underappreciated. He describes clergy as "first responders" in their communities, present at moments of crisis before official authorities: in hospitals, homes, and places of pain or transition. Drawing from personal experience, Philip Amerson observes that, while pastors are constantly offered courses and resources to "improve" their leadership, the core need for many is simply encouragement and collegial support.

A significant point in the episode is Philip Amerson’s critique of contemporary denominational life, specifically within United Methodism. He laments the shift away from networks of mutual support and toward models that inadvertently foster competition—measuring success by church growth and flashy programs rather than by compassionate ministry and care for one another.

As a remedy, Philip Amerson extends a personal invitation to pastors seeking renewal and meaningful connections. He highlights the upcoming We Belong Retreat, a unique three-day gathering in New Harmony, Indiana, designed for pastors and faith leaders to experience true belonging and re-energize for their ministry. The retreat, scheduled for April 13–16, 2026, is offered free of charge for invited guests and promises a supportive environment centered on rest, community, and affirmation.

Key Takeaways:

1. Pastors are “first responders” for emotional, spiritual, and communal crises, sometimes arriving before medical or law enforcement professionals.
2. Faith leaders need encouragement and connection more than constant advice to “improve”—sometimes a simple thank you goes a long way.
3. Denominations have moved away from fostering collegiality and now often pit pastors against one another, focusing on growth and programming over relationship.
4. Opportunities like the “We Belong Retreat” can provide much-needed spaces for rest, renewal, and authentic connection among clergy.
5. Listeners are encouraged to share this invitation with pastors who might benefit and reach out directly to
6. Philip Amerson. [email protected]
7. for more information.
8. If you know a faith leader who could use a boost of support, or you’re curious about how meaningful connections can transform ministry, this episode is a warm reminder of the enduring importance of community. Reach out to Philip Amerson or pass along the details—let’s help our faith leaders be renewed and well cared for.

[email protected]

Host: Philip Amerson

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy and the courageous act of Rosa Parks inspire this reflective episode of the To Be snd Do podcast, hosted by Philip Amerson. Titled “Because Moments,” this brief yet potent segment dives into themes of civil rights, nonviolent resistance, and the ongoing struggle against society’s “triple evils”: racism, poverty, and militarism. Through historical context and heartfelt storytelling, Philip Amerson calls listeners to action, reminding us of the enduring power found in collective resistance, wisdom, and love.

Key Takeaways:

1. Dr. King’s ‘Triple Evils’ Remain Interconnected Barriers

Philip Amerson revisits Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s pivotal address at Riverside Church, which identified racism, poverty, and militarism as the “triple evils” of society. These interconnected issues still shape our communities, standing as formidable obstacles to achieving the “beloved community” where all belong. The episode invites listeners to reflect on how these evils show up today and emphasizes the need for comprehensive responses rooted in justice and compassion.

2. Rosa Parks’ Dignified Defiance Demonstrates Collective Power

The story of Rosa Parks is recounted — not as an isolated moment, but as a catalyst for mass movement. When Parks calmly resisted segregation by asserting, “you may do that,” she shifted the power dynamic via her words and stance. Philip Amerson highlights that she was not alone; her action symbolically carried the strength of her ancestors and was supported by thousands who joined her in defiance. This moment of nonviolent resistance points to the power individuals have when they act in concert with community and history.

3. Nonviolent, Loving Resistance Is Needed Today

Connecting past struggles to current realities, Philip Amerson addresses the ongoing challenges of militarization and brutality, especially at borders and within marginalized communities. He calls listeners to peaceful resistance, inspired by the legacy of Parks and Dr. King—urging us to “stand, and as we’re standing, gently say, ‘you may do that, but we’re not going to follow this nonsense any longer.’” The episode encourages building a beloved community through nonviolent, loving action rooted in solidarity.

Closing Thoughts:

Philip Amerson ends with a blessing and a reminder: each listener is part of God’s beloved community. As we honor those who came before us, we’re called to keep resisting injustice—together, with steadfast love and dignity.

In this poignant "'Because" episode of the "To Be snd Do" podcast Philip Amerson takes listeners through a raw and deeply personal reflection on violence, protest, and the necessity of compassionate dialogue in times of national turmoil. Centered around the tragic killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, an ICU nurse in Minneapolis, Philip Amerson draws connections between recent events and historic moments of unrest, reminding us that history’s lessons are powerful guides.

1. The Tragedy of Unjust Violence and Its Chilling Familiarity

Philip Amerson opens by recounting the killing of Alex Jeffrey Pretti, emphasizing the senselessness and horror that surrounds the event. The choice to help others, as Pretti did, should never carry the risk of violence, yet this episode laments that “something about this is emotionally familiar.” The host links this sadness and outrage to his memories of the Kent State shootings, suggesting that our society remains haunted by cycles of violence against protest and compassionate action.

2. The Value of Loving, Difficult Conversations

A moving portion of the episode describes Philip Amerson’s late-night conversation with his father following Kent State. Though they didn’t persuade one another to change sides, it was the act of staying up, sharing vulnerability and grief, that mattered most. This reflection is a call for connection over confrontation—a plea for more “all night stay ups” to overcome what he calls “this new ice age” of alienation and divisiveness.

3. Hope in Peacemaking and Shared Humanity

The episode closes on a note of hope, drawing on the Beatitudes, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be known as the children of God.” Citing theologian Walter Brueggemann, Philip Amerson sets an intention for the future: to seek peace, find common ground, and believe in the possibility of reconciliation, even as we acknowledge the depth of our losses.

Summary

Through personal memory and public tragedy, Philip Amerson weaves a narrative of heartbreak, empathy, and hope. This episode invites listeners to engage in difficult conversations, to recognize familiar patterns of injustice, and to recommit themselves to the work of peacemaking in everyday life. In times that seem frozen in conflict, faith in dialogue and humanity lights the way forward.

In this powerful episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson sits down with Reverend Mark Feldmeir, lead pastor at St. Andrew United Methodist Church in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, to discuss faith’s evolving landscape, the sacred weight of preaching in turbulent times, and the importance of forging genuine community response in the wake of tragedy.

Mark Feldmeir, known for his insightful preaching and recently published book “Life After Finding Faith, When You Can't Believe Anymore,” shares honest reflections on faith’s deconstruction and reconstruction, the responsibilities of pastoral leadership, and how churches can become beacons of healing for hurting communities.

Three Takeaways:

1. Deconstruction as a Journey, Not a Threat Mark Feldmeir challenges the negative perceptions surrounding faith deconstruction, reframing it as a necessary process for authentic belief. He unpacks how generational images of God—sometimes inherited from classical theology and tainted by concepts of divine aloofness or authoritarianism—can stifle authentic spiritual growth. By reimagining God through more relational, persuasive images, individuals and congregations can find new ways to engage faith meaningfully in a modern world that desperately needs it.

2. Preaching in a Changing World The conversation addresses the evolving nature of preaching in the 21st century—the tension between tradition and innovation. While Mark Feldmeir acknowledges the growing influence of new media and creative formats, he argues that preaching’s “incarnational” quality—showing up, telling the stories, and holding the real-life experiences of congregants—is irreplaceable. Even when sermons take new forms, the fundamental need for honest, present, and dialogical preaching remains as essential as ever.

3. Pastoral Leadership Beyond the Pulpit Perhaps most movingly, Mark Feldmeir describes the importance of pastoral presence during times of communal trauma, like school shootings. The role expands far beyond Sunday sermons—it means being a visible, reliable source of comfort, helping to organize tangible support, and creating safe spaces for healing. He shares firsthand stories from his own experience, including how St. Andrew became a hub for crisis response. In these pivotal moments, faith communities offer not just words, but the empowering gift of presence and belonging.

Don’t Miss:

1. Practical wisdom for anyone re-examining the faith they grew up with
2. Honest insights on preaching’s future
3. Stories of hope, challenge, and communal healing

Check out Mark Feldmeir’s book, revisit past sermons on the St. Andrew United Methodist Church website, and stay tuned for the next episode, where the conversation will turn toward joy and resilience.

Listen in for a conversation that’s both timely and timeless—helping us all learn more fully what it means to be, and to do.

https://www.markfeldmeir.com/

Because:

In this thoughtful and timely episode of To Be and Do, Philip Amerson offers a reflection on where we are as a society in January 2026, with particular attention to the legacy and continued relevance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. As we navigate celebrations of Dr. King’s birthday and confront ongoing social issues, Philip Amerson challenges listeners to consider the depth of our ethical commitments and the collective work still needed around race, community, and justice.

1. Dr. King’s Message Is More Relevant Than Ever

Philip Amerson reminds us that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called racism an international problem, not just an issue confined to the United States. Citing King’s sobering words from “Where Do We Go From Chaos or Community?”, the episode highlights how progress towards equality requires global awareness, humility, and urgency—before history repeats itself with a cruel, "too late."

2. Ethical Questions for Today’s Leaders

The episode doesn’t shy away from asking tough questions. Philip Amerson calls on political leaders, from governors to the president, to make clear the moral or ethical basis for their policies—especially regarding race, immigration, and distribution of resources. He encourages all of us, regardless of faith tradition, to examine whether our actions are guided by deeper values or shaped by historic biases.

3. Faith and Community Require Collective Action

Drawing on the Lord’s Prayer, Philip Amerson underscores that authentic faith isn’t only personal. The emphasis is on “our Father”—signifying shared responsibility and mutual care. Whether through Christianity, Judaism, Islam, or secular ethics, the call remains the same: to love God and neighbor, dismantling barriers that perpetuate division and injustice.

Final Thoughts:

As we mark Dr. King’s birthday, Philip Amerson leaves us with a reminder that lasting change is a daily commitment, not just an annual occasion. The episode concludes with hope, warmth, and an invitation to community—a “cup of love and laughter” over coffee—urging listeners to continue the work with both conviction and kindness.

Don’t miss this meaningful reflection on justice, faith, and what it means to truly live for others.