Why God Why‪?‬ Browncroft Community Church

In this thought-provoking episode of Why God Why, hosts Peter Englert and Candice Fazar, a member of Browncroft Community Church, delve into the compelling question: "Doesn't science disprove the Bible?" This episode is part of the "Questions of Our Day" series, inspired by listener interaction and curiosity about the relationship between faith and science.
Candice shares her unique journey of growing up in a large family and developing a passion for both faith and science. From her early experiences in a public school to her academic pursuits in physics at Bethel University and the University of Rochester, Candice illustrates how her faith and scientific interests have coexisted harmoniously. She recounts a pivotal moment in high school when a teacher connected a scientific concept with a Bible verse, sparking her curiosity about the interplay between faith and science.
The conversation explores Candice's academic journey, her unexpected shift from music to physics, and her current work in infrared detectors for space-based astronomy. She emphasizes that for her, there has never been a conflict between science and the Bible. Instead, she sees them as complementary, with God encouraging us to explore and understand His creation. Candice shares insights on how scientific discoveries can enhance our understanding of biblical truths, using examples like the creation story and the role of plants in shaping Earth's atmosphere.
Peter and Candice also discuss the importance of engaging in thoughtful conversations about faith and science, encouraging listeners to approach these topics with an open mind and a willingness to learn. They highlight the value of understanding different perspectives and the importance of not putting God in a box, but rather allowing Him to be the God of both science and scripture.
Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or somewhere in between, this episode offers a rich and nuanced discussion that challenges the notion of a dichotomy between science and faith, inviting listeners to explore the harmony that can exist between the two.

In this heartfelt episode of Why God Why, we tackle a sensitive and often overlooked topic: "Why does it feel like the church devalues singleness?" Hosts John Iamaio and Amanda D'Angelo are joined by special guests Daron Ladson and Ann Ielapi to explore the nuances and challenges of navigating church life as a single person.
Daron shares his experiences of being single in various church environments, highlighting the societal shift towards a more accepting view of different relationship statuses. He discusses the pressure and shame often associated with singleness and emphasizes the importance of understanding that singleness, like marriage, is a biblical gift.
Ann offers her perspective as someone who found faith later in life, detailing her journey from seeking validation in relationships to understanding the deeper purpose of marriage and singleness through her relationship with God. She underscores the value of singleness in personal and spiritual growth, and the frustration of being reduced to one's relationship status in church conversations.
Amanda reflects on her own single years, sharing how she learned to savor the freedom and opportunities that singleness provided. She and the guests discuss the joys of singleness, such as autonomy and the ability to invest deeply in friendships and personal interests, while also acknowledging the loneliness and societal pressures that can accompany it.
The episode delves into practical ways the church can better support single individuals, suggesting the creation of more inclusive community spaces and the importance of recognizing the full spectrum of relationship statuses. The conversation is enriched with theological insights, referencing the single lives of Jesus and Paul as models of fulfilling, God-centered living.
Whether you're single, married, or somewhere in between, this episode offers a compassionate and thought-provoking discussion on the value of singleness and the church's role in embracing and supporting all its members.

In this illuminating episode of Why God Why, we explore the profound question, "Why don't I feel God near?" Hosts Peter Englert and Steve Cuss embark on a heartfelt dialogue, blending personal anecdotes and deep theological insights to address a struggle that resonates with many believers and seekers alike.
Steve Cuss, a seasoned pastor and consultant on anxiety, shares his unique practice of lighting a candle to symbolize God's presence, a simple yet powerful act that serves as a tangible reminder of the divine in our daily lives. This episode delves into the complexities of feeling disconnected from God despite living in an age of unprecedented information and awareness of mental health.
Throughout the conversation, Steve and Peter discuss the historical context of biblical times versus today's modern society, highlighting how the tangible presence of God in the past contrasts with the often intangible experience of faith today. They explore how cultural anxiety and reactivity can create barriers to sensing God's presence, offering practical steps to reconnect with oneself and, consequently, with God.
Listeners will gain insights into the importance of self-awareness in spiritual growth, learning how to identify and die to false needs and beliefs that hinder a genuine connection with the divine. Steve also introduces concepts from his new book, "The Expectation Gap," which tackles three significant spiritual gaps: feeling God's love, sensing God's presence, and measuring spiritual progress.
Whether you are a long-time believer struggling with spiritual dryness or someone curious about the Christian faith, this episode provides valuable perspectives and practical advice for bridging the gap between belief and experience. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that encourages a deeper, more tangible relationship with God in the midst of life's challenges.

In this dynamic episode of Why God Why, we grapple with a question that strikes at the heart of Christianity's global identity: "Which culture owns Christianity?" Hosts Peter Englert and Alyssa Matz engage in a profound conversation with author and professor Dr. Vincent Bantu, exploring the historical and contemporary implications of this question within the series "Questions of Our Day."
Dr. Bantu, with his extensive background in church history and black church studies, dismantles the misconception that Christianity is a Western or "white man's" religion. He traces Christianity's roots deep into African and Asian history, highlighting the significant contributions of early African theologians and the faith's early adoption by African kingdoms, independent of Western influence.
The episode addresses the complex relationship between faith and culture, emphasizing that Christianity transcends cultural boundaries and is meant for all people. Dr. Bantu shares his personal journey of reconciling his cultural identity with his Christian faith, offering insights into how the church can authentically represent the diversity of God's creation.Listeners are invited to consider how historical schisms and cultural misunderstandings have shaped perceptions of Christianity, and how embracing the faith's true, global heritage can lead to a more inclusive and vibrant expression of the gospel.
Whether you're a long-time believer, someone exploring the faith, or a skeptic pondering the relevance of Christianity across cultures, this episode provides a space for learning, understanding, and envisioning a world where the love of Christ is celebrated in all its cultural richness.

In this compelling episode of Why God Why, we delve into one of the most challenging and controversial questions of faith: "Why would a loving God allow people to go to hell?" Hosts Peter Englert and Aaron McGinnis are joined by local pastors Steven Nichols and Bob Reeves for a candid discussion that navigates the complexities of divine justice, eternal consequence, and the nature of God's love.
Steven and Bob, both from Calvary Assembly in Rochester, New York, share their personal journeys of grappling with the concept of hell, from their formative years in church to their current pastoral roles. They reflect on the historical use of fear as a tool for conversion and the damage it has caused, advocating for a more compassionate and understanding approach to sharing the gospel.The conversation explores the theological and pastoral aspects of hell, questioning common misconceptions and the portrayal of God as a punitive judge. Listeners are invited to consider the transformative power of grace and the choices we make in life, with insights drawn from scripture and influential thinkers like C.S. Lewis.
Whether you're wrestling with doubts, seeking to reconcile the idea of a just God with the reality of hell, or simply curious about the theological underpinnings of this topic, this episode offers a nuanced perspective that encourages deep reflection and honest inquiry.
Join us on "Why God Why?" for a thought-provoking dialogue that promises to challenge assumptions, foster understanding, and ultimately point to the hope and redemption found in the person of Jesus Christ.

In this profound episode of Why God Why, we address a topic that is both deeply personal and widely misunderstood: "Doesn't the church dismiss mental health?" Alyssa Matz and Amanda D'Angelo guide us through a conversation that bridges the gap between spirituality and psychological well-being, exploring why mental health is often a taboo subject within religious communities.
Joined by seasoned counselors Robyn Englert and Kathy Elliott, this episode delves into the intricate relationship between faith, mental illness, and the church's response. Robyn and Kathy, both deeply entrenched in the intersection of counseling and Christianity, share their insights on the misconceptions and fears that have historically led to the marginalization of mental health issues in religious settings.
Listeners will be invited to consider the importance of distinguishing between sin and wounds, understanding that while sin calls for repentance, wounds require healing and empathy. The discussion also sheds light on the potential for spiritual abuse when mental health is misunderstood or ignored by church leaders.
This episode articulates how churches can better integrate mental health awareness into their ministries, but also be a beacon of hope for those who have felt dismissed or hurt by their faith communities due to their mental health struggles. With recommendations for resources, books, and programs like Celebrate Recovery, Robyn and Kathy equip listeners with tools to foster healing and encourage open, compassionate dialogue about mental health in spiritual environments.
Whether you've experienced church-related hurt, are a faith leader seeking to grow in understanding, or simply someone who cares deeply about the well-being of others, this conversation offers a space for learning, reflection, and the pursuit of a more inclusive and supportive faith community.
Tune in to "Why God Why?" for an episode that not only confronts the tough questions but also offers a path toward reconciliation and hope for a future where faith and mental health walk hand in hand.