The Roots for Churches podcast

Roots for Churches

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Christianity

Interviews exploring intergenerational ministry, worship, preaching, theology, the Bible, children’s and youth groups. Roots produces weekly lectionary based resources for churches to support worship and learning for all ages. Find out more at www.rootsforchurches.com

2d ago

Creation Theology, Eco-Theology and the Feast of Creation in Christ with Rev Dr Dave Bookless S4E26

Melanie Cave speaks with the Reverend Dr. Dave Bookless about the new Feast of Creation in Christ (Creation Sunday), the church’s environmental conversion, and how scripture and theology can inspire faithful stewardship of the planet. They discuss the history of creation care in the church, biblical perspectives on new creation and eschatology, practical ways churches can celebrate and engage during Creation Time, and how to sustain hope and local impact amid climate fatigue. Discover how the church can deepen its connection to environmental stewardship and explore practical steps for integrating creation care into faith. Key topics Dave’s personal eco-conversion experience sparked by a moment on a small island questioning how God might feel about human impact on the earth The biblical basis for eco-theology, highlighting the book of Job’s creation theology and the importance of understanding our dependence on creation The global growth of A Rocha since 1983, blending conservation efforts with teaching the church about biblical environmental responsibility The historical shift in church focus from creation to personal salvation during the Enlightenment and modern times Reframing eschatology: understanding the biblical themes of continuity and discontinuity, new creation emerging from the old, and the symbolism of fire The significance of “Creation Sunday” at the start of September and the new Feast of Creation in Christ, celebrated alongside ecumenical and global churches Practical ways churches can foster outdoor worship, environmental education, and personal spiritual disciplines connecting with creation Resources for churches: EcoChurch, A Rocha’s resource hub, recommended books by Ruth Valerio, Richard Borkham, and climate scientist Catherine Hayhoe The importance of balancing reverence for creation without worshipping it, recognizing both God’s love and the created order Maintaining hope through understanding God’s ultimate plan for renewal, and small actionable steps individuals and congregations can take locally Chapters 00:00 - Intro to EcoTheology 00:27 - Job and creation theology 00:53 - Dave’s eco-conversion 02:37 - A Rocha’s mission 03:55 - Church awakening to creation care 09:02 - Eschatology and stewardship 12:31 - Resurrection and new creation 28:37 - Feast of Creation in Christ 44:29 - Practical resources for churches 52:10 - Hope, action, and local impact Show notes: A Rocha International and A Rocha UK resources, including the EcoChurch scheme and training programs https://ecochurch.arocha.org.uk/ https://arocha.org/en/ https://arocha.org.uk/ Books by Ruth Valerio, Richard Borkham, and climate scientist Catherine Hayhoe Websites: www.feastofcreation.com www.seasonofcreation.org Visit www.rootsforchurches.com for more resources, insights, and ways to engage your community in creation care.
Aug 10

What do we do with violence in the Bible? Wrestling with Violence in the Old Testament, with Dr Andrew Ollerton S4E25

Melanie Cave talks with Dr. Andrew Ollerton about how to understand violent and judgmental passages in the Old Testament, including the conquest narratives, the plagues, and commands that trouble modern readers. They give historical and theological context, distinguish descriptive from prescriptive texts, and explain how these stories point toward Christ and the new covenant. Practical and pastoral, the episode equips preachers, youth leaders and curious seekers to discuss these difficult passages honestly, compassionately, and in community. Main Topics Covered: The rise in interest and search for the Bible during COVID-19 and its implications How to interpret violent narratives in the Old Testament within their ancient cultural context The difference between descriptive and prescriptive elements of biblical violence The theological significance of God's justice and the shift from Old to New Covenant Navigating the difficult themes of judgment, wrath, and divine justice in preaching Christ as the fulfillment and resolution of Old Testament violence stories Practical ways to approach these passages in church sermons and community discussions The importance of engaging multiple perspectives and cultural contexts for biblical understanding The role of grace, humility, and honesty when addressing God's judgment today An emphasis on understanding biblical violence through layered interpretations: literal, spiritual, and Christological, respecting the historical context and Scripture’s divine narrative. Chapters: 00:00 - Why interest in the Bible is increasing despite secular declines 02:13 - Exploring the prevalence of violence in Old Testament stories 04:26 - The cultural and historical context behind conquest narratives 09:06 - Understanding the ancient Near East cultural backdrop 16:15 - Reframing Jericho and Canaanite warfare historically and archaeologically 26:31 - The biblical view of divine judgment and justice 28:24 - The challenging nature of the Passover plagues and divine wrath 32:40 - Jesus’ pacifist example versus Old Testament violence 36:17 - The ‘old covenant’ versus ‘new covenant’ distinction explaining God's changing ways 44:29 - The pointing to Jesus in Old Testament stories and their unresolved tension 47:24 - Addressing the church's role in preaching justice and judgment with humility 51:38 - The importance of honest conversations about difficult topics for young and older generations 52:42 - Resources for exploring these themes in churches, including books and discussion guides Show notes Andrews Book: God's book: An honest look at the Bible's 7 toughest topics Small group discussion resources Roots Articles Dr Andrew Ollerton: When the Bible Gets Violent Three ways to preach on difficult passages Dr Jared Neusch: Why you don't have to pass over the Passover with childen www.rootsforchurches.com
Aug 3

Meeting the spiritualy‑seeking generation, with Andrea Campanale S4E24

Melanie Cave interviews Andrea Campanale about the rising spiritual hunger in Gen Z and how churches can respond with curiosity, friendship and empathy. Andrea shares stories from New Age and green fairs, fresh expressions of church, and practical ways to disciple seekers who practice manifesting, crystals, tarot and other spiritualities. The episode explores embodied worship, addressing shame and powerlessness, reclaiming Christian spiritual practices, and resourcing leaders to engage this generation with compassion and creativity. Key Topics Andrea’s background in church leadership and her spiritual experiences and how they opened her eyes to the culture of spirituality outside the church The shift from viewing new age practices as threats to opportunities for sharing faith Practical ways to engage with spiritual seekers at fairs, festivals, and community events Discipleship journeys focusing on discernment of the Holy Spirit versus other spirits Engaging culture through arts, embodied prayer, and experiential activities Encouraging participation and multi-sensory engagement in church and outreach Understanding and navigating contemporary spiritual practices like manifesting, crystals, and witchcraft The importance of biblical stories, saints, and role models to inspire faith and challenge cultural narratives Addressing fears around spiritual practices rooted in superstition or demonic influence Reimagining the church’s role in healing shame, building relationships, and restoring divine image through community Timestamps 00:00 - Introducing Andrea and the focus on Gen Z's spiritual openness 02:00 - Andrea’s personal background and early frustrations with evangelism 03:05 - How her friend’s spiritual experience challenged her perspective 04:30 - Recognizing culture’s interest in spirituality as an open door 05:50 - Moving into ministry at New Age fairs and community events 07:00 - Sharing stories of prayer walks, encounters with alternative spiritualists, and the fruit of outreach 08:40 - Fruit of engaging with spiritual seekers: faith coming alive and discipleship that discerns spirits 10:00 - The cultural shift: more openness to spiritual conversations today than 20 years ago 11:15 - Making sense of spiritual practices alongside biblical truth 12:30 - Addressing the black-and-white view of spirits and spiritual dangers 13:45 - Overcoming fear and cultivating compassionate curiosity 15:00 - The natural vs spiritual worldview: sickness, trauma, and spiritual openness 16:20 - Recognizing God’s activity in visions, dreams, and culture 17:30 - The biblical basis: Paul on the unknown God and cultural engagement 18:50 - Balancing tolerance with evangelism in diverse spiritual environments 19:50 - Protecting oneself through prayer and faith in Jesus’ power 21:00 - Walking alongside cultural differences: justice, attitudes, and the mission of the church 22:20 - The church’s role in rediscovering spiritual practices and ritual 23:30 - Participating in experiential, arts-based, and embodied worship practices 24:50 - Reaching beyond event-specific stalls to a welcoming church culture 27:00 - Addressing accessibility through creative worship for diverse learners 28:20 - Appreciating the creative wisdom of God in art, labyrinths, and symbols 29:15 - Exploring contemporary spiritual practices like manifesting, crystals, and angel numbers 30:30 - Engaging in conversations about manifestation and prayer. 33:00 - The importance of biblical stories, saints, and inspirational heroes in faith formation 35:00 - The role of cultural symbols, Celtic traditions, and indigenous practices as pointers to God 37:00 - Moving beyond fear: witchcraft, Wicca, and the spiritual quest for power and identity 38:45 - The rise of witchcraft on social media and how to respond thoughtfully 39:50 - The underlying drivers of spiritual seeking: powerlessness, trauma, and the search for meaning 42:00 - Comparing the stories of saints with the narratives competing in the spiritual marketplace 43:45 - Addressing gendered spirituality and the search for divine feminine 44:50 - The challenge of biblical language: shifting from male-centered to a more inclusive understanding of God 47:00 - Resources for deeper learning and engagement in spiritual conversations 48:15 - The importance of trauma-informed church models and addressing shame in spiritual seekers 50:00 - How the gospel restores relationship, dignity, and community beyond guilt and shame 52:00 - Reframing evangelism around shame, honor, and divine empowerment 54:00 - Jesus’ approach to shame and healing—restoring reputation and relationship 56:00 - The church’s need to model genuine love and community to attract those searching for belonging 57:00 - Final encouragement: engaging culture with curiosity, truth, and love Resources & Links Eden People Guildford – Engaging with spiritual environments Church Mission Society - Mission to the Spiritual but Not Religious Missional Conversations by Colin Smith & Cathy Ross The 3D Gospel – Exploring gospel themes through guilt, shame, honor, and power www.rootsforchurches.com Good Vibrations resource from Roots Reimagining Evanglism Article Series
Jul 27

Wrestling with Suffering and God's Plan, with Dr Henna Cundill, S4E23

Melanie Cave and Dr. Henna Cundill explore predestination, suffering, free will, and how to pastor people through hard questions with honesty, hope, and trust in God. Starting with the story of Joseph forgiving his brothers, they discuss what it teaches us about predestination, God’s knowledge and the problem of suffering. They explore biblical tensions between God’s plans and human freedom and how scripture models lament, discernment and hope. The episode offers pastoral guidance for talking with young people and congregations—how to sit with pain compassionately, help people find meaning in hardship, and balance theological ideas about God’s sovereignty with everyday decision-making and emotional health. Key Topics Joseph’s story and the theme of divine purpose Scripture, predestination, and free will Why suffering is so hard to understand The importance of lament and emotional honesty Why platitudes can be unhelpful How to discern God’s guidance in real life Trusting God’s character in uncertainty Chapters 00:00 Introduction to predestination and suffering 02:05 Biblical wrestling with God’s sovereignty 04:04 Joseph, Psalm 139, and God’s plan 04:55 God changing course in Exodus 32 05:20 Omniscience, predestination, and free will 08:53 Finding meaning in suffering 10:00 Romans 8 and God working for good 11:27 Why platitudes can hurt 1 4:20 Lament and emotional honesty 16:53 Joseph and discernment 20:17 God’s plan and daily decisions 26:54 Jeremiah 29:11 and exile 29:09 Guidance through life choices 35:56 Subtle and dramatic callings 37:55 Trusting God in suffering 41:59 Signs of Jesus’ love in pain 42:42 Hope rooted in Jesus’ suffering and resurrection Resources Henna Cundill’s article on predestination Amy Orr Ewing's book "Where is God in all the suffering?" Shelley Rambo "Spirit and Trauma: A Theology of remaining." Henna’s But... Bible Studies series which includes a set of studies for young people on 'Why do bad things happen to good people?'
Jul 20

Autism and Prayer, with Dr Henna Cundill S4E22

Three to five percent of the population has autism, so many church communities include autistic members. In this episode Melanie Cave speaks with Dr. Henna Cundill, a youth worker, minister and researcher at the Centre for Autism and Theology, about her book and PhD research on autism and prayer. They discuss how neurodiversity affects prayer, social anxiety, masking, rule-following, and practical ways churches can foster belonging rather than just passive welcome. Dr. Cundill explains why diagnoses have increased, the overlap with other neurodivergences like ADHD and dyslexia, and why a diagnosis can provide access to support and community. They explore how church culture and unconscious rules can create barriers, why routines and sensory needs matter, and how personal relationships and empathy — not checklists — are key to inclusion. Resources from the Centre and Roots are shared to help churches take practical steps toward greater accessibility and belonging. Keywords autism, neurodiversity, church inclusion, prayer, faith, mental health, community, support, autism and theology Key Topics Autism prevalence and diagnosis changes Neurodiversity and church inclusion The complexity of prayer for autistic individuals The role of social scripts and routines in church life The importance of empathy and relational connection in supporting neurodivergent members Sound Bites '3 to 5% of the population has autism' 'Prayer is as natural as breathing' 'Social anxiety fills the space between us' Chapters 00:00 Exploring the Intersection of Autism and Faith 04:29 The Changing Landscape of Autism Awareness 11:56 The Importance of Diagnosis and Identity 17:48 Understanding Prayer Through an Autistic Lens 26:32 The Intersection of Faith and Capitalism 28:02 Rethinking Daily Routines in Spiritual Practices 29:28 Diversity in Worship and Expression 31:17 Understanding Neurodivergence in Church Settings 33:08 Flexibility in Spiritual Practices 34:22 The Role of Community in Spiritual Well-being 37:22 Building Relationships in Church 41:52 Navigating Preferences and Needs in Worship 46:36 The Importance of Individual Needs in Church Community 51:23 Understanding Neurodiversity in Church Settings 53:12 Roots' Commitment to Inclusive Resources Show Notes Henna's Autism and Prayer book: https://scmpress.hymnsam.co.uk/books/9780334067221/praying-by-the-rules The Centre's Neurodiversity and Faith Series: https://www.abdn.ac.uk/dhpa/research/centres/centre-for-autism-and-theology/neurodiversity-and-faith-series/ (More titles to be added at the end of July 2026) Roots articles and podcasts supporting Neurodiversity Sensory Healthy Church https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/sensory-healthy-church Emotionally Based School Refusal https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/i-dont-want-to-go-back-to-school Supporting Children and Young People with ADHD https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/supporting-yp-with-adhd Going beyond Inclusion https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/going-beyond-inclusion Roots Visual Timetable for churches https://www.rootsontheweb.com/vt
Jul 13

Host an Eclipse Party: Church Outreach Ideas for August 12, 2026, with Cameron Lee-Hume S4E21

Join Melanie Cave and Cameron Lee Hume as they explain how churches can host safe, welcoming solar-eclipse viewing events on August 12, 2026 — a rare opportunity visible across much of the UK. The episode covers practical safety tips, free Methodist resources (posters, planning guides, Canva materials), and ideas for using the eclipse as a gentle gateway to faith conversations. Learn about the Methodist Day of Outreach, registration for local events, supporting tools like the Conversations Against Mundanity game and the On The Way course, and simple ways to turn a community sky-watching party into ongoing connections and discipleship opportunities. Keywords solar eclipse, church outreach, evangelism, faith sharing, community events, Christian resources, Methodist Church, faith conversations, eclipse viewing, evangelism strategy Key Topics Planning church outreach events around celestial phenomena Safe viewing methods for solar eclipses Resources for faith-based outreach during the eclipse The role of storytelling and testimony in evangelism Encouraging curiosity and authentic faith conversations Sound Bites "Protect your eyes with certified eclipse sunglasses" "People are more interested in faith than you think" "Intentionality helps us be more authentic in evangelism" Chapters 00:00 The Significance of the August Solar Eclipse 03:36 Safe Viewing Practices for the Eclipse 06:04 Church Outreach and the Eclipse 09:07 Evangelism as a Gateway Experience 11:45 Shifting Perspectives on Evangelism 14:29 Overcoming Social Anxiety in Faith Conversations 17:39 The Power of Storytelling in Evangelism 20:16 Intentionality in Faith Conversations 23:01 Using Games to Foster Deeper Conversations 25:41 Navigating Modern Tensions in Evangelism 28:33 The Role of Testimony in Sharing Faith 31:10 Encouraging Authenticity in Faith Sharing 34:19 Preparing for the Solar Eclipse Viewing Party Show Notes Eclipse Watch Party Resources https://www.methodist.org.uk/for-churches/evangelism-growth/practise-evangelism/day-of-outreach/ Conversations against Mundanity https://www.methodistpublishing.org.uk/books/9781858525242/conversations-against-mundanity One the Way Course for https://www.methodist.org.uk/for-churches/evangelism-growth/discipleship-pathways-travelling-together/on-the-way/ Desensitising to rejection podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r2hxCRbLAuU&feature=youtu.be www.rootsforchurches.com
Jul 6

Playful Faith: Rediscovering Joy and Childlikeness in Church S4E20

Melanie Cave interviews Anglican priest and family ministry consultant Gail Adcock about the theology and practice of play in church. They explore how play appears in scripture and Jesus’ interactions, the difference between being childlike and childish, and how play can be a spiritual discipline that fosters connection, emotional expression, and wonder. The episode also covers practical ideas and barriers: sensory activities, storytelling, games and quizzes, intergenerational approaches, adapting church spaces, and leader training. Listeners are offered simple, tested ways to include play in gatherings and encouraged to trust the Spirit as play deepens faith and community. Explore how play can transform church environments, making faith more accessible, participatory, and joyful for all ages. Gail Adcock shares practical and theological insights on weaving play into church life, discipleship, and intergenerational ministry. highlights Why play belongs in Christian faith and formation The difference between being childish and being childlike How Jesus models joy, creativity, and openness Ways play can deepen teaching and learning Practical ideas for churches with limited space or traditional seating How playful environments build belonging across generations Why joy and laughter matter for spiritual health Chapters 00:00 — Introduction: why play matters in church 00:32 — Meet Gail Adcock and the theme of play as a spiritual discipline 01:16 — Is there play in the Bible? 05:58 — Childish vs. childlike faith 10:24 — Why play helps adults learn 15:20 — Godly Play and open responses to scripture 20:28 — Holding structure and openness together 24:26 — Different kinds of play: stories, games, senses, and quizzes 29:23 — Bringing play into church buildings and traditional spaces 35:00 — Using games as a vehicle for deeper reflection 40:10 — Why theological training needs more play and interaction 44:43 — Adults play too: hobbies, Lego, and community 47:46 — Play, wellbeing, and church as a gathering place 50:26 — Final reflections: play more, embrace joy Key takeaways Play is not a distraction from faith formation — it can be a meaningful way to encounter God, ask questions, and build community. The episode argues that churches can become more welcoming and effective when they make room for play, reflection, and participation. Resources Roots for Churches: https://rootsforchurches.com Gail Adcock’s article on the theology of play https://www.rootsontheweb.com/worship-and-learning-support/articles/playful-faith Ministry Essentials Training https://childrensministrynetwork.org/ministry-essentials/
Jun 29

Reimagining Evangelism: Practical Tips for Churches, with Andy Frost S4E19

Melanie Cave speaks with Andy Frost of Share Jesus International about making evangelism less intimidating and more practical for churches. They explore starting small — prayer, telling brief personal stories, and ‘dropping the Frisbee’ into conversations — building church cultures of prayer, hosting accessible events, and supporting people to take their next steps in faith. Andy shares practical ideas, encouragements for leaders, and resources to help congregations become more confident and authentic in sharing the good news. Key Topics Comparing evangelism to an ultramarathon: endurance, pacing, and enjoyment The significance of starting small: prayer, casual conversations, and dropping in faith nuggets Overcoming the perception that evangelism is hard or only for 'super Christians' Practical ways to incorporate faith sharing into church routines (small groups, services, events) The power of prayer and community in cultivating a missional mindset Using stories, arts, and creative events to introduce the Christian faith Recognizing individual and corporate styles of faith sharing The importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and listening in faith conversations Simple, effective activities: prayer walks, giving crosses, dropping in questions about God's work in daily life Encouragement for church leaders to model and facilitate faith sharing confidently Chapters 00:00 - Evangelism as an ultramarathon 02:37 - Why sharing faith feels intimidating 03:27 - Starting small with prayer and everyday faith 06:03 - Knowing your “why” and sharing naturally 08:35 - Building evangelism into church culture 11:58 - Creating a prayer culture that lasts 15:01 - Responding to tough faith questions 20:10 - Asking better questions and praying for people 27:02 - Seeing everyday opportunities to serve 30:09 - Different styles of sharing faith 32:31 - Events, relationships, and the right next step 41:35 - Encouragement for church leaders Resources & Links Share Jesus International Faith Sharing Style Quiz www.rootsforchurches.com

Interviews exploring intergenerational ministry, worship, preaching, theology, the Bible, children’s and youth groups. Roots produces weekly lectionary based resources for churches to support worship and learning for all ages. Find out more at www.rootsforchurches.com

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Roots for Churches
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