Come.Union Podcast

Erin Olinger and Ramonita Smith
  • 5.0 (17)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Come.Union is all about relationships over religion. Our relationship with Christ, ourself and with others. In a culture that seems so divisive, we are cultivating a community of truth-seekers from all walks of life. So whether you have faith, no faith or have walked away from faith, YOU ARE WELCOME HERE. We are ready to understand, heal, have tough conversations and re-build bridges. So let's get started! Let the reconciliation begin!

  1. 5D AGO

    Reflecting on Growth + What’s Next for Come.Union

    This episode marks the end of Season 3 of the Come.Union podcast—a season shaped by deep questions around faith, community, and growth. Erin and Ramonita reflect on the journey of 55 episodes, what God has been doing through these conversations, and how this season has stretched their understanding of faith—especially through curiosity, questioning, and real-life wrestle. They also share a personal update as Ramonita prepares to welcome her third baby, and what this means for a pause in podcast episodes. But this isn’t the end. This conversation opens up what’s next as Come.Union continues to grow beyond the podcast—into a deeper, more relational movement centered around real conversations, real people, and real tables. Key Topics* Celebrating 55 episodes of the podcast and the growth of this season * What faith looks like in everyday life—especially for Gen Z * The role of questions and curiosity in deepening faith * Why community matters beyond just listening to a podcast * Expanding into platforms like Substack, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube * The vision for deeper conversations around tables—both digital and physical * Introducing CUG (Come.Union Gatherings) and local community spaces * An invitation to collaborate, co-create, and build this together Resources & LinksSubstack — Join our community for deeper conversations + resourcesTikTok (@come.union) — Bite-sized content + updatesYouTube — Full episodes + video contentInstagram — Stay connected + join the conversation Connect with UsErin — Instagram | TikTok Ramonita — Twitter | LinkedIn What’s Next While the podcast is pausing, Come.Union is not. We’re continuing to build spaces for honest conversations, deeper faith, and real community—both online and around physical tables. If you’ve been part of this journey, you’re invited into what’s next. 🪑 There’s still a seat for you.

    29 min

  2. MAR 31

    What Happens After You Accept Jesus?

    There’s a moment in faith that feels like a line—before and after. But what if following Jesus isn’t just crossing a line… it’s stepping into a whole new way of living? In this episode, we’re unpacking some of the most foundational (and often confusing) parts of Christianity—salvation, Lordship, and baptism. Not as checkboxes. Not as religious language we’ve heard a hundred times. But as an invitation into something real. What does it actually mean to say “Jesus is Lord”? Is salvation a one-time decision… or the beginning of a lifelong transformation? And why does baptism matter—like, really? We’re not here to give you perfectly packaged answers. We’re here to create space to wrestle, understand, and respond. Key Takeaways: * Salvation is a gift of grace—but it invites a real, personal response that transforms how we live * Calling Jesus “Lord” isn’t just words—it’s surrender, trust, and reorienting your life around Him * Baptism is more than a tradition—it’s a public declaration of an inward transformation * Faith is not just belief in your head—it’s trust that moves into action over time * Following Jesus is not a one-time moment, but an ongoing journey of surrender, growth, and becoming If this conversation stirs questions (or even resistance), you’re not alone—and you’re exactly who this space is for. Join us on Substack to go deeper, grab the discussion guide, and be part of the conversation.

    58 min

  3. MAR 17

    Why the Cross, the Resurrection & Communion?

    Why did Jesus have to die such a brutal death? What does the resurrection actually mean? And why did Jesus leave us communion? In this episode, Erin and Ramonita explore the core of the Christian story—the cross, the resurrection, and the invitation Jesus left us at the table. Together they wrestle with what these moments reveal about God’s love, justice, and desire for relationship with humanity. This conversation moves beyond surface-level answers and invites listeners to sit with the weight of Good Friday, the silence of Holy Saturday, and the hope of Easter morning. Whether you grew up in the church or are simply curious about faith, this episode encourages deeper reflection on what the cross and resurrection mean for our lives today. Key Takeaways * The resurrection is the foundation of Christianity and the event that changed everything. * The brutality of the cross reveals both the depth of human brokenness and the depth of God’s love. * Jesus’ resurrection represents the ultimate reversal of death, injustice, and sin. * Communion is more than remembrance—it’s an invitation to participate in the story of Jesus’ sacrifice and redemption. * Faith grows when we allow ourselves to wrestle with questions and approach God with curiosity. And…if this episode stirred questions or curiosity, we invite you to go deeper with us. Join the Come.Union Substack community, where we unpack these conversations further, share reflections, and provide discussion guides to help you explore faith more deeply.

    55 min

  4. MAR 3

    What Is Revival… and Is It Actually Happening?

    Revival is a word that carries weight — history, emotion, expectation, and sometimes confusion. In this episode, Erin and Ramonita explore what revival really means beyond the events, headlines, and hype. They reflect on childhood memories of tent meetings and Billy Graham crusades, unpack historic revivals that reshaped communities, and wrestle honestly with the question many believers are quietly asking: Are we witnessing true revival today — or moments of spiritual excitement without lasting transformation? Together, they examine the characteristics that marked historic awakenings — repentance, humility, reconciliation, and deep dependence on the Holy Spirit — and compare them with modern revival movements. The conversation gently challenges listeners to consider whether revival is something we attend, or something that begins within us and quietly reshapes how we live, love, and engage our communities. Ultimately, this episode invites listeners to see revival not as spectacle, but as a deeply personal and communal movement of transformation that spreads outward through everyday faithfulness. Key Takeaways* Revival begins with personal surrender before it becomes collective movement * Repentance and humility are consistent markers of historic awakenings * Emotional moments alone cannot sustain lasting spiritual renewal * Community, reconciliation, and discipleship give revival staying power * The most profound revivals often unfold quietly through everyday obedience If you’re longing for a space to process, question, and grow alongside others pursuing Jesus in honest ways, our Substack is where that community continues to unfold. We’d love to meet you there!

    52 min

  5. FEB 17

    What Is Discipleship, Really?

    In this episode, we dive into the heart of what it truly means to follow Jesus. Too often, modern Christianity focuses on raising hands, saying a prayer, or “joining the club,” but discipleship goes far deeper. Erin and Ramonita unpack the difference between being a convert and being a disciple, explore the relational nature of spiritual growth, and challenge the idea that the Church exists to grow crowds rather than cultivate life-changing faith. They also reflect on Jesus’ model of discipleship — small, intentional, and deeply relational — and offer practical ways to live it out today. 5 Key Takeaways: Discipleship is about following Jesus, not just believing in Him.True spiritual growth requires relational investment — you become like who you spend time with.Modern Christianity often emphasizes converts over disciples, but depth matters more than width.Discipleship happens best in small, intentional communities where people can be fully known.Building tables (relationships) matters more than building brands (numbers or programs). Don’t miss an episode — subscribe to our Substack to get every conversation delivered straight to your inbox.

    52 min

  6. FEB 3

    What is the Role of the Church?

    In this episode we dive into a big question: What is the role of the church… really? We will take a look at how the church has evolved over time, how the early church prioritized community over structure, and the ways different expressions of church—house churches, small gatherings, and traditional settings—can all be meaningful. We talk honestly about the tension between structure and Spirit, the pressures of modern church culture, and why intimacy with God is always central. Our relationship with Him isn’t defined by church attendance—church can help cultivate our faith, but it isn’t the measure of it. Going to church is not the same as living in faith. This conversation invites listeners to rethink church beyond attendance, embrace curiosity and questions in their faith, and reflect on their own role in the body of Christ. Key Takeaways: The church was never meant to be something we attend, but something we participate in.Intimacy with Jesus should come before church involvement or activity.Different expressions of church—traditional, house churches, and small gatherings—can all be faithful and meaningful.The early church prioritized shared life, community, and presence over performance and structure.Asking questions and staying curious are essential for a healthy, growing faith and church community. Want to keep the conversation going? Join us on Substack for reflections, resources, and community: https://substack.com/@comeunion

    1h 7m

  7. JAN 20

    Who is the Holy Spirit?

    A lot of us have heard about the Holy Spirit, but still feel unsure about who the Holy Spirit actually is—or how the Spirit shows up in real life. In this episode, Erin and Ramonita talk honestly about the shift from thinking of the Holy Spirit as a vague idea or spiritual add-on to recognizing the Spirit as a who—someone personal, present, and deeply involved in our everyday lives. They reflect on how the Holy Spirit comforts, guides, and empowers us, often in quiet ways we don’t always notice at first. They also explore how understanding the Holy Spirit changes the way we relate to God altogether. Rather than focusing only on spiritual gifts or dramatic moments, this conversation centers on relationship—how the Holy Spirit walks with us, shapes our faith over time, and has often been present long before we had language for it. This episode is for anyone who has felt curious, confused, or hesitant about the Holy Spirit—and for anyone longing for a faith that feels more connected, grounded, and alive. Key Takeaways: * The Holy Spirit is a who, not a what, and desires relationship with us. * The Holy Spirit offers comfort and guidance in everyday life. * Understanding the Holy Spirit can shift faith from information to connection. * The Holy Spirit empowers believers to live in alignment with God’s will. * The Holy Spirit has been present and active, even before we recognize it. Want to keep the conversation going? Join us on Substack for reflections, resources, and community: https://substack.com/@comeunion

    1h 5m

  8. JAN 6

    What is Repentance?

    What does repentance actually mean—and why does it matter so much in our faith journey? In this episode, Erin and Ramonita sit down together to explore repentance in relation to sin, shame, and the deep kindness of God. Through honest conversation, personal stories, and Scripture, they unpack how repentance is often misunderstood—and how God uses it not to punish us, but to restore us. They discuss how shame keeps us hiding, why awareness of sin is the first step toward freedom, and how confession can become a doorway to healing. Anchored in the story of the Prodigal Son, this episode reframes repentance as an invitation back into relationship with a God whose love is unconditional. This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt stuck, distant from God, or unsure how to move forward spiritually—and is longing for freedom. Key Takeaways: * Repentance is not about punishment, but about turning back to God and being restored to relationship with Him. * Shame keeps us hiding, but God’s kindness is what invites us back into the light. * Awareness of sin is the first step toward freedom, not condemnation. * Confession opens the door to healing by breaking our agreements with sin and shame. * True repentance includes receiving God’s forgiveness and learning to forgive ourselves. Want the full episode? Subscribe to our Substack to unlock the complete conversation. https://substack.com/@comeunion

    17 min
See All (56)

Trailer

5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Come.Union is all about relationships over religion. Our relationship with Christ, ourself and with others. In a culture that seems so divisive, we are cultivating a community of truth-seekers from all walks of life. So whether you have faith, no faith or have walked away from faith, YOU ARE WELCOME HERE. We are ready to understand, heal, have tough conversations and re-build bridges. So let's get started! Let the reconciliation begin!

Information

  • Creator
    Erin Olinger and Ramonita Smith
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Come.Union Podcast

You Might Also Like