Compass Podcast: Finding the spirituality in the day-to-day

United Methodist Communications
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Compass Podcast: Finding the spirituality in the day-to-day Podcast

Faith and spirituality sometimes leave us with more questions than answers. The Compass podcast shares stories about deconstructing faith, finding meaning, seeking justice, and deepening spiritual connection through contemplative practices and worship. Join fellow spiritual seekers Michelle Maldonado and Ryan Dunn as they seek orientation to the Divine presence in the day-to-day through a Christian perspective. A production of United Methodist Communications.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    [140] Real church in digital space with J.J. Warren

    We’re borrowing an important interview from the MyCom Podcast. Host Ryan Dunn talked with Rev. J.J. Warren about what defines a church and how J.J. is putting the definition into practice through the Church of the Young Prophets. Drawing from his theological background and experiences with the Young Prophets Collective, J.J. discusses the evolution of virtual worship spaces, the significance of platforms like Discord and Instagram, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries in digital ministry. In this episode: (00:00) Interview on digital church from Mycom podcast. (06:15) Reexamining the church’s role in the pandemic. (07:46) Online connections require time, energy, emotions. Church inheritance. (13:13) Questioning if online platforms foster authentic relationships. (16:51) Global young people shaping the church’s future. (18:33) Church practices adapting online during pandemic in Philippines. (22:50) Find agency and safety at Church of the Young Prophets. (26:17) Gather Town provides intimacy and private spaces. (29:13) Virtual office hours across multiple time zones. (33:06) Access the Gather campus through website link. (34:44) Proximity and intimacy. (39:00) Online church community fosters intentional connections. (42:33) Setting boundaries between online church and personal life. For episode notes and more visit umc.org/compass

    45 min

  2. AUG 21

    [139] From hate to hope: Neelley Hicks

    Neelley Hicks shares her experience that landed her picture in papers across the globe, stemming from a recent Unity Rally in Nashville, Tennessee. It was attended by a diverse and vibrant community and disrupted by the alarming presence of Neo-Nazis. This episode looks into the complex emotions and motivations behind such extremist actions and explores how we can rise above hate with love and unity. In this episode: (00:00) Nashville unity rally against Neo-Nazi hate. (06:22) Discussion about immigration, nationalism, and religion beliefs. (09:33) Questioning funding for hate groups traveling to Nashville. (13:22) Regarding deeper conversations (14:51) Meeting Nazis (18:38) Confrontation with masked man reveals underlying insecurity. (22:45) Obligation to care for global human family. (26:37) Supporting others and self-care in trauma. (28:05) A practice of self-soothing and self-care (31:23) Neelley shared her story about Women Rise. Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications. More at umc.org/compass

    32 min

  3. AUG 7

    [138] Faith and outrage: Jesus' teachings in a polarized culture

    We’re tackling the topic of living out our faith in a complex and often polarized world. Recently, the outrage sparked by the opening ceremonies of the Paris 2024 Olympics, particularly a controversial scene perceived to mock Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” has ignited debates and outraged responses. We’ll explore how to express our faith authentically without adding to the division, drawing on examples from the teachings of Jesus, the early Christian community, and even a unique punk rock venue in Berkeley, California. Join us as we discuss how to adopt Christ-centered humility, build bridges, and embody the fruits of the Spirit in our public lives. In this episode: (00:00) Outrage over extravagant ceremonies, Jesus’s message. (04:19) Podcast on expressing faith in a polarized world. (11:06) Public displays of faith and its impact. (13:56) God’s love is an irresistible invitation. (17:34) Seminaries need to prepare for public engagement. (21:08) Call for grace-filled, justice-minded viewpoint. (22:50) What’s next on Compass Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications. Episode notes and more resources are at www.umc.org/compass

    23 min

  4. JUL 25

    [137] Crafting a clarity of belief with Bruce Reyes-Chow

    Summarizing Faith and Theology with Bruce Reyes-Chow on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Bruce shares the importance of distilling and articulating beliefs in simple, digestible formats. Discover his innovative concept of a “faith montage” and how it serves as a primer on progressive Christianity to guide individuals through faith deconstruction and reconstruction. Bruce Reyes-Chow is an influential author, speaker, parent, consultant, coach, podcaster, and pastor. His latest book, “Everything Good About God is True,” encapsulates beliefs about God through the lens of lived experiences. In this episode, he discusses his approach to writing, crowd-sourcing feedback, and addressing both practical and theological questions. Bruce’s work aspires to be a conversation starter in churches, giving depth and clarity to longtime churchgoers and spiritual seekers alike. Join Ryan Dunn and Bruce Reyes-Chow as they reflect on the future of the church, diversity, inclusivity, and Christianity’s portrayal in media. This episode offers rich insights into condensing complex theological ideas and crafting a narrative that resonates with both believers and those curious about faith. Keywords: progressive Christianity, faith deconstruction, spiritual reconstruction, faith montage, Bruce Reyes-Chow, articulate beliefs, theology, Christianity in media, diversity in the church, inclusive faith. Check out episode 133 with John Pavlovitz and episode 126 with Heather Jallad for more compelling discussions on spirituality and faith. Don’t forget to leave a rating and review to help us bring more meaningful content to our audience and connect with future guests! Sponsored by United Methodist Communications. In this episode: (00:00) Exploring the evolving future of the church. (05:04) Challenge the dominant Christian cultural narrative responsibly. (08:29) Distilling beliefs into simple, understandable messages is essential. (09:29) God loves you, no need for more. (13:24) Reflecting on writing project, seeking input for relevance. (16:37) A cautious approach to the definitive article. (18:58) Connecting to God through Jesus, death & resurrection. (24:26) Treat everyone as complex child of God. (27:32) Our shared human value. 930:26) Committed to Jesus, bodily resurrection, healing world. (33:06) Changed denominational stance on LGBTQI inclusion, progress. (36:22) Transitioning from pastor to full-time writer and speaker. Subscribe and stay tuned for our next episode in 2 weeks. Peace until then! For more episodes of Compass and episode notes: https://www.umc.org/compass

  5. JUL 10

    [136] Conflict, faith and growth with David Livingston

    Pastor David Livingston discusses the concept of abundant life and how it can be experienced in the present. He emphasizes that abundant life is not solely about material well-being or a perfect life, but rather about finding spiritual and emotional well-being in the midst of life’s challenges. Pastor Livingston shares his personal experience with anxiety and how he has found peace and permission to be anxious through reframing the language of Jesus’ command to not be anxious. He also discusses the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care in order to maintain spiritual and emotional health. Additionally, he explores the idea of finding meaning and redemption in difficult circumstances, trusting that God is at work even in the midst of pain and suffering. Finally, Pastor Livingston offers practical suggestions for deepening one’s spiritual connection, such as journaling, prayer practices, engaging in acts of service, and reading the Bible with a focus on understanding and reflection rather than completing a set reading plan. David is lead pastor at Old Mission United Methodist Church in Fairway, Kansas, and the author of “Getting to Good: Moving to a Fuller More Abundant Life Right Now”. In this episode: (00:00) Reverend David shares wisdom on spirituality and coping. (04:53) Struggle with anxiety, find peace through faith. (09:07) Mother soothing and comforting child with words. (11:04) Individual response to anxiety has biochemical basis. (13:00) Setting boundaries to manage anxiety and stress. (18:15) Staff sponsored Bible halted, allowing others to help. (19:53) Parenting: allowing kids to fail, avoid catastrophizing. (22:54) Disagreement with Romans 8:28 passage interpretation. (28:23) Life is hard, but there’s redemption. (30:09) Journaling and prayer can bring clarity and faith. (32:43) Devotional books help encounter the divine. (37:23) Peter’s story reveals redemption in the gospel. (39:12) New episode in 2 weeks. Chat then. Peace.

  6. JUN 26

    [135] Exploring Hell, Purgatory, and God’s Love with Derek Kubilus

    Unpacking the mysteries of hell and love with Derek Kubilus on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Derek takes us on a thought-provoking journey through the complex relationship between a God of love and the concept of eternal torment. Explore his ideas on purgatorial universalism, the evolution of hell in Christian theology, and how these beliefs shape our spiritual lives. Derek has written a compelling book called “Holy Hell: A Case Against Eternal Damnation”. It is aimed at those traumatized by the fear of hell, offering hope and relief to individuals plagued by questions about the eternal fate of loved ones and themselves. We’ll explore how traditional views of eternal torment have impacted people’s relationships with God and spirituality, and how early Christian interpretations differ significantly from the dominant narrative. In this episode: (00:00) Compass explores spirituality, challenges conventional Christian doctrine. (06:00) Book resonates with those questioning eternal hell. (09:41) Exploratory theological journey led to innovative seminars. (12:13) Convinced of purgatorial universalism, wrote book to help. (16:43) People’s perception of God impacts relationships with others. (19:39) Ancient Christians interpreted various words for hell. (23:25) Spread of early Christian views on hell. (26:09) Pruning: essential for growth and eternal punishment. (29:17) Lost leg in 2012, endured painful rehab. (35:32) Union with God, divinization, in human destiny. (39:36) Reinterpret old Christian standards for new generation. (40:49) United Methodist Church embracing change with generosity. (44:13) Busy episode, leave a rating, back soon. Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications and is hosted by Rev. Ryan Dunn. For episode notes and more ways to engage with Compass: www.umc.org/compass Compass releases new episodes every other Wednesday.

    45 min

  7. JUN 12

    [134] Spiritual practices for busy lives with Andrew Lang

    Rediscover centering and spirituality with Andrew Lang on “Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday.” Andrew Lang, a guiding voice in spiritual practices, shares transformative insights on integrating centering practices into daily life, overcoming the “dark night of the soul,” and finding creative ways to connect with our spirituality. Listen in as Lang explains how centering practice can reshape our responses to life’s challenges and help build personalized spiritual rhythms. Whether grappling with the daily grind or seeking meaningful spiritual practices that fit your modern life, this episode offers practical wisdom and thoughtful reflections. (00:00) Discovering spirituality in daily life with Andrew. (04:39) Educator, non-profit worker, and spirituality advocate. (09:13) Reflect on life, relationships, and behaviors honestly. (11:29) Writing, drawing, and mapping express individual experiences. (15:43) Embracing the spiritual connection of body and soul. (18:31) Centering defined as finding alignment in the body. (21:29) Physical and mental practice in different sizes. (24:35) Glorification of dark night of the soul. (26:28) Measuring effectiveness in spiritual practice for connection. (30:32) Variety of meditation practices including box breathing. (36:10) Prayer can be flexible and creative. (37:43) Upcoming workshops on practice and self-improvement. (40:03) Cultivating everyday spirituality for meaningful stories. Find episode notes and more from Compass at www.umc.org/compass Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications.

  8. MAY 29

    [133] Cultivating empathy in polarized times: Insights from John Pavlovitz

    Curious about maintaining compassion and engaging in meaningful conversations in your daily life? On Compass 133, join Ryan Dunn as he speaks with John Pavlovitz about finding common ground and exploring spirituality amidst life’s challenges. Discover how to navigate differences with empathy, find solace in nature, and embrace your faith journey authentically. John shares his personal journey from questioning his Christian identity to embracing a compassionate approach that transcends religious and ideological boundaries. We’ll explore the need for human connection beyond political or religious labels and John’s latest endeavors including his work on grief, his online community Empathetic People Network, and his new book “Worth Fighting For.” John Pavlovitz is a pastor, writer, and activist from Wake Forest, North Carolina. In the past several years his blog, Stuff That Needs To Be Said, has reached a diverse worldwide audience. A 20-year veteran in the trenches of local church ministry, John is committed to equality, diversity, and justice. His books include:  If God Is Love, Don’t Be a Jerk, A Bigger Table, Hope and Other Superpowers, Low, Rise, Worth Fighting For and Stuff That Needs to Be Said. In this episode: (00:00) Compass with John Pavlovitz: Finding common ground. (05:33) Exhausted people need empathy and encouragement. (09:18) Curiosity and compassion breed meaningful conversations. (10:59) Impactful online conversations reach a wide audience. (15:12) Spiritual history, seeking compassion. (20:43) Church adapting to modern challenges and changes. (22:48) Challenging American evangelical church, seeking Jesus’ teachings. (27:20) Embrace curiosity and find beauty in ordinary things. (29:19) Empathetic People Network offers inclusive social platform. Compass is a production of United Methodist Communications. Find more episodes and show notes at www.umc.org/compass

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Faith and spirituality sometimes leave us with more questions than answers. The Compass podcast shares stories about deconstructing faith, finding meaning, seeking justice, and deepening spiritual connection through contemplative practices and worship. Join fellow spiritual seekers Michelle Maldonado and Ryan Dunn as they seek orientation to the Divine presence in the day-to-day through a Christian perspective. A production of United Methodist Communications.

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