Church and Main

Dennis Sanders
  • 4.7 (13)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Church and Main is a podcast at the intersection of faith and modern life. Join Pastor Dennis Sanders as he shares the stories of faith interacting with the ever-changing world of the 21st century.

  1. A Theology of Protest with David Swanson | Episode 271

    2D AGO

    A Theology of Protest with David Swanson | Episode 271

    In this conversation, David Swanson discusses his experiences as a pastor in Bronzeville, Chicago, and the role of protest within the Christian faith. He reflects on the importance of community engagement, the theological underpinnings of protest, and the connections between spiritual practices and activism. Swanson emphasizes the need for lament in protest, the significance of bearing witness, and offers guidance for those new to activism. He encourages Christians to participate in protests as an expression of their faith and to recognize the historical context of protest within Christianity. Suggested Reading and Listening: 🌐David Swanson’s website 📝A Christian Theology of Protest: Bearing Faithful Witness in a Time of Unrest   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    41 min
  2. Why Social Justice and Spirituality Go Together with Wes Granberg-Michaelson | Episode 270

    FEB 20

    Why Social Justice and Spirituality Go Together with Wes Granberg-Michaelson | Episode 270

    I speak with Wes Granberg-Michelson about the essential link between spirituality and social justice in today's political climate, looking at the urgency for faith communities to act while remaining grounded in spiritual practices. Drawing from his book, "The Soul Work of Justice", Wes advocates for integrating deep prayer and reflection into our pursuit of justice, ultimately calling for a renewed approach that prioritizes faith and love in addressing societal challenges. The Soulwork of Justice Wes Granberg-Michaelson's website   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    51 min
  3. Is It Fascism? Reasoning Together About Trump 2.0 with Anthony Robinson | Episode 269

    FEB 13

    Is It Fascism? Reasoning Together About Trump 2.0 with Anthony Robinson | Episode 269

    I engage with Pastor Anthony Robinson to discuss the contentious label of fascism in relation to Donald Trump's political rise. We look at Jonathan Rauch's essay, "Yes, It's Fascism," and explore the implications of such labels for American democracy. Robinson shares his evolving perspective, while I highlight the complexities of terminology and its potential to divide.  Suggested Reading and Listening: Yes, It’s Fascism I Was Wrong Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    1h 13m
  4. Why Minneapolis Needs Potlucks with Rachel Pieh Jones | Episode 268

    FEB 6

    Why Minneapolis Needs Potlucks with Rachel Pieh Jones | Episode 268

    Rachel Pieh Jones joins to talk about the importance of potlucks in Minneapolis during a time of division. Drawing from her experiences in Djibouti and Somaliland, Rachel discusses how communal meals can bridge diverse communities and foster empathy, particularly amid the challenges faced by immigrant populations.  Why Minneapolis Needs Potlucks Now Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    49 min
  5. Character Matters in Politics with Matt Lewis | Episode 267

    JAN 30

    Character Matters in Politics with Matt Lewis | Episode 267

    Political commentator Matt Lewis joins the podcast to talk about the shifting relationship between character and politics from the 1990s to the present. We examine how character dynamics during the Bill Clinton era contrast with current debates surrounding Donald Trump. Matt shares personal insights from his background while reflecting on the moral dilemmas faced by Republicans and the implications for the evangelical community.  Matt Lewis' website Character Is Destiny article   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    56 min
  6. Can AI Help or Hinder Human Flourishing? with Paul Hoffman | Episode 266

    JAN 23

    Can AI Help or Hinder Human Flourishing? with Paul Hoffman | Episode 266

    Dr. Paul Hoffman speaks about the intersection of faith and technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Hoffman discusses his recent book, "AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep," exploring how AI can both aid and hinder human flourishing from a theological perspective. We look at the implications of AI on community, embodiment, and the church's role in navigating these challenges. AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep Paul Hoffman Bio   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    56 min
  7. The Lost Cultural Influence of the Religious Left with Lane Davis | Episode 265

    JAN 16

    The Lost Cultural Influence of the Religious Left with Lane Davis | Episode 265

    Lane Davis, an ordained minister and assistant professor of Church History, unpacks his insightful article, "How the Religious Left Ceded Power to the Religious Right." We explore Lane's journey from pastoral ministry to academia and discuss the historical decline of liberal Christianity's political influence. Lane reflects on pivotal moments, such as Pete Buttigieg’s candidacy, and critiques the assertion of a liberal Christianity resurgence under Biden. We analyze the historical dominance of mainline Protestantism, the rise of evangelical conservatism, and the existential crisis facing liberal churches today. How the Religious Left Ceded Political Power to the Religious Right America’s Vanishing Church   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    54 min
  8. Renee Good and Minnesota ICE with Eric Elkin | Episode 264

    JAN 10

    Renee Good and Minnesota ICE with Eric Elkin | Episode 264

    In this special episode, we look at the tragic death of Rene Goode by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Joined by pastor Eric Elkin, we address the emotional aftermath and the impact of immigration policies on community safety. Eric shares his frustrations with ICE operations and the narratives that dehumanize victims. We emphasize the faith community's role in advocating for justice while navigating feelings of division. I conclude by reflecting on the resurrection hope in the midst of rising authoritarianism.   Advent United Methodist website Eric Elkin's website and podcast Easter Means Hope, Not Optimism by Drew McIntyre When ICE Comes to Town with Quincy Worthington   Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

    1h 15m
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4.7
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Church and Main is a podcast at the intersection of faith and modern life. Join Pastor Dennis Sanders as he shares the stories of faith interacting with the ever-changing world of the 21st century.

Information

  • Creator
    Dennis Sanders
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved
  • Show Website
    Church and Main

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