Future Christian

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At the Future Christian Podcast, we talk to pastors, authors, and other faith leaders for helpful advice and practical wisdom to help you lead your church into the future.

1일 전

Faith, Spectacle & the Business of Church: Marti & Mulder on Schuller’s Enduring Influence

What can we learn about the future of the church by looking back at Robert Schuller? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. speaks with sociologists Gerardo Marti and Mark Mulder about their new biography, The Church Must Grow or Perish: Robert Schuller and the Business of American Christianity. Together, they explore how Schuller’s entrepreneurial vision, drive-in worship, and architectural grandeur helped shape the megachurch model—and why his story still matters today. This wide-ranging conversation dives into Schuller’s deep pastoral commitment, his embrace of American capitalism, and the unspoken ways his model of church innovation continues to influence today’s pastors. Loren, Gerardo, and Mark also reflect on what it means to lead faithfully in a culture defined by speed, spectacle, and constant change. Topics Covered The rise and fall of Robert Schuller and the Crystal Cathedral Why Schuller’s legacy lives on in today’s church growth models How capitalism and faith became intertwined in modern ministry The unintended consequences of constant innovation Schuller’s surprising theological conservatism and deep pastoral care What “resonance” offers as a response to cultural acceleration Mark T. Mulder is Professor of Sociology at Calvin University and director of the Common Good Collective. He is the author or co-author of five books In addition, Mulder has published numerous peer-reviewed articles in academic journals, including Social Problems, Religion and American Culture, and The Journal of Urban History. He has also published pieces for church audiences and won writing awards from the Evangelical Press Association and the Associated Church Press. Gerardo Martí is William R. Kenan, Jr. Professor of Sociology at Davidson College and president of the Society for the Scientific Study of Religion. A prolific and award winning author, his research explores religious innovation and the role of religion in shaping patterns of racialization and political engagement in the United States. Bluesky ‪@gerardomarti.bsky.social Mentioned Resources: 🌐 Faculty Website: https://calvin.edu/people/mark-mulder 🌐 Faculty Website: https://www.davidson.edu/people/gerardo-marti 📖 Previous Book: https://www.rutgersuniversitypress.org/the-glass-church/9780813589060/ 📖 The Book: https://www.eerdmans.com/9780802878557/the-church-must-grow-or-perish/ 🎧 Andrew Root: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/walking-into-sorrow-andrew-root-on-evangelism-in-the-age-of-despair/ 🎧 Andrew Root: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/andy-root/ 🎧 Andrew Root: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-jtzdu-1500e5e Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

51분
7월 22일

Loren & Martha Live from Canada: Faith, Loss, and Life in the Middle Years

What does faith look like in the middle of life? In this special in-person episode of podcast, co-hosts Loren Richmond Jr. and Martha Tatarnic reflect on the spiritual realities of middle age. Recorded together in St. Catharines, Ontario, they explore how faith changes through grief, caregiving, shifting theology, and the evolving nature of ministry. This deeply personal and thought-provoking conversation touches on everything from parenting and loss to theological mystery and sustaining joy in pastoral work. Loren and Martha offer hard-earned wisdom, honesty, and encouragement for anyone trying to live faithfully in the messy middle years of life and leadership. Topics Covered The spiritual needs of middle age (and why churches often overlook them) How grief, caregiving, and loss shape our faith What sustains ministry over the long haul Changing theological priorities after seminary Parenting teenagers and modeling faith without coercion Embracing mystery, awe, and the Spirit’s leading Mentioned Resources: 📖 Martha's Book: https://www.churchpublishing.org/whygather 📖 James Cone: https://orbisbooks.com/products/the-cross-and-the-lynching-tree 🎧 Andrew Root: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/walking-into-sorrow-andrew-root-on-evangelism-in-the-age-of-despair/ 🎧 Arianna Molloy: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/healthy-calling-ariana-malloy-on-burnout-purpose-and-redefining-work/ 🎧 Elizabeth Schrader Polczer: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/elizabeth-schrader-polczer-on-rethinking-mary-magdalene-part-1/ 🎧 Suzanne Nadell: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/leading-with-grace-suzanne-nadell-on-navigating-faith-media-polarization/ Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

1시간 6분
7월 15일

Walking into Sorrow: Andrew Root on Evangelism in the Age of Despair

What if the most faithful act of evangelism isn’t preaching—but sitting with someone in their grief? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. talks with theologian and returning guest Dr. Andrew Root to explore what it means to practice evangelism in an age defined by despair. Drawing from his latest book, Evangelism in the Age of Despair: Hope Beyond the Failed Promise of Happiness, Andy challenges the notion that evangelism is about strategy, persuasion, or growth—and instead reframes it as a practice of consolation. Together, Loren and Andy wrestle with the loneliness, sorrow, and disconnection of modern life. From Facebook Marketplace encounters to late-night hospital chaplaincy calls, this conversation dives deep into the spiritual significance of simply showing up and staying present with people in their suffering. They discuss: Why sorrow is "contagious"—and why that matters The mystical, communal nature of consolation How pastors and chaplains might be better theologians than academics What happens when a society loses its rituals for goodbye Why people turn to the occult when meaning is missing Whether you’re a ministry leader, chaplain, or spiritually curious, this episode will help you rethink what it means to offer hope in a world hungry for presence, not platitudes. Andrew Root is the Carrie Olson Baalson professor of youth and family ministry at Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota. He writes and researches in areas of theology, ministry, culture and younger generations. His recent books are Churches and the Crisis of Decline, When Church Stops Working, and The Church After Innovation. Andy has worked in congregations, parachurch ministries, and social service programs. He lives in St. Paul with his wife Kara, two children, Owen and Maisy, and their dog. When not reading, writing, or teaching, Andy spends far too much time watching TV and movies. Mentioned Resources: 📖 Book: https://bakerpublishinggroup.com/books/evangelism-in-an-age-of-despair/423470 🌐 Website: https://www.andrewroot.org 🎧 Previous Episode: https://futurechristian.podbean.com/e/andy-root/ 🎧 Previous Episode: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-jtzdu-1500e5e Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

51분
7월 8일

Rethinking Seminary for the Next Generation: Bekah Buchterkirchen on Innovation, Inclusion, and Formation

As seminaries face shrinking enrollments, rising costs, and shifting demographics, what models of theological education will carry the church forward? In this episode, Loren talks with Bekah Buchterkirchen, a writer, speaker, and former dean of students with nearly a decade in Christian higher education. Drawing from her experiences in seminary leadership—and as a seminary spouse—Bekah offers a thoughtful look at what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change for theological education to stay relevant and form faithful leaders. Bekah also shares about her own spiritual rhythms as a mother and ministry partner, what she’d do if she were pope for a day, and why the legacy of Tim Keller continues to shape her hopes for the church. Together they explore: The shift away from traditional seminary students to older, working adults The growing presence of women in seminary—and the challenges they still face Creative cohort-based and hybrid models that foster both learning and community The need for deeper church-seminary partnerships and real-time ministry formation Stackable certificates, lay education, and the future of non-traditional theological training Why poor digital presence is a turnoff—and how seminaries can adapt Bekah Buchterkirchen is a writer, speaker, and creative collaborator passionate about cultivating joy and faith in every season. With nearly a decade in Christian higher education and ministry alongside her pastor-husband, she seeks to create spaces where curiosity, hospitality, and the love of Jesus meet. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with their two, almost three, young kids and writes to encourage moms in the trenches of motherhood to seek the Lord daily—even when they feel like it's not enough. Mentioned Resources: 📱 Follow @bekahbuck 🌐 Website: https://www.bekahbuck.com 🎧 Arianna Malloy: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-gb5yr-18a44c5 🎧 John Hawthorne: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-zgqq8-18c307a 🎧 Ulysses Allen: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-iumm4-1502da4 🎧 Ted Smith: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-w4nrb-15d747b Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

49분
7월 1일

May Young on Biblical Lament as Resistance, Resilience, and Hope

What if the path to hope isn’t found in overcoming pain, but in naming it? In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. speaks with Dr. May Young, Associate Professor of Biblical Studies at Taylor University and author of Walking with God Through the Valley: Recovering the Purpose of Biblical Lament. Together, they explore why lament—too often overlooked in modern Christianity—is not just a personal cry, but a prophetic act of faith. Dr. Young vulnerably shares from her own experience of heartbreak and disorientation, and how discovering the biblical practice of lament became a turning point in her spiritual life. From the Psalms to the prophets, she explains how lament gives believers a faithful way to grieve, resist injustice, and grow in spiritual resilience—even when nothing changes. Topics explored: Why biblical lament is more than venting—it's rooted in God’s character and promises How lament helps churches stand with the suffering and resist apathy Why modern worship often skips lament, and why that’s a problem How unprocessed pain from the COVID era may still be shaping us The difference between stoic acceptance and faithful sorrow What it means to trust God when healing or justice may not come on our timeline May Young (PhD, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School) is associate professor of biblical studies and chairs the Department of Biblical Studies, Christian Ministries, Intercultural Studies, and Philosophy at Taylor University. She has contributed to several volumes focused on lament, including Reading the Psalms Theologically (Lexham) and World Christianity and COVID-19: Discourses and Perspective (Routledge). She is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of Biblical Literature and serves on the board of directors of the Institute of Biblical Research, as well as the editorial board for Sacred Roots. Mentioned Resources: 📖 May Young's book: https://www.ivpress.com/walking-with-god-through-the-valley Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

48분
6월 24일

The Scandal of Ordaining Women: the Legacy of the Philadelphia Eleven with Margo Guernsey

What happens when a group of women dare to follow their calling—despite being told they can’t? In this compelling episode, Martha Tatarnic speaks with documentary filmmaker Margo Guernsey about her powerful film The Philadelphia Eleven, which tells the story of the first women ordained as Episcopal priests in 1974. Margo reflects on her own evolving faith journey, the deep spiritual nature of storytelling, and how this film reignited her connection with church and community. They discuss the courage and solidarity required to challenge institutional injustice, the cost of following one's calling, and why this story of ecclesiastical disobedience remains incredibly timely today. Whether you’re in ministry or simply seeking inspiration to live more truthfully, this conversation reminds us why history matters—and how faith and justice must always walk hand in hand. Topics Covered: Margo’s journey from UCC upbringing to filmmaking as spiritual practice The groundbreaking ordination of the Philadelphia Eleven Why solidarity, trust, and long-term relationship-building matter The cost of truth-telling and challenging church hierarchy Representation, visibility, and the power of embodied leadership The importance of storytelling in shaping faith and future How churches can resist silence and engage with courage Hosting a screening and engaging your community with the film Margo Guernsey (she/her) is a documentary Director/Producer, impact strategist, and founder of Time Travel Productions LLC. Her films include Councilwoman (America ReFramed 2019), No Time To Fail (America Reframed 2023), The Philadelphia Eleven (impact distribution 2023 - 2024 topping 500 screenings, American Public Television 2025), and THE OFFICIALS (TIME Studios, 2024). Prior to film, Margo worked as a union organizer, non-profit development director, and Spanish/English translator. Margo’s work has received support from Chicken & Egg Pictures, ITVS, Catapult Film Fund, GoodPitch, Perspective Fund, Ford Foundation, Surdna Foundation, and LEF Moving Image Fund among others; and she was a Film Independent Fast Track Fellow. She speaks both Spanish and English and holds an MFA in Film (University of Miami), an MA in History (UMass Amherst), and a BA in History (Brown University). Margo teaches producing as affiliated faculty at Emerson College and is a member of the Documentary Producers Alliance and Global Impact Producers Alliance. Mentioned Resources: 📖 Book recommendation: Song in a Weary Throat by Rev. Dr. Pauli Murray 🌐 No Time to Fail and The Officials (Margo's films on election workers) 🌐 The Philadelphia Eleven film website 🌐 Time Travel Productions Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

1시간 3분
6월 17일

Future Focused Church with Raymond Chang

In this episode, Loren Richmond Jr. talks with Raymond Chang—pastor, writer, and Executive Director of the TENx10 Collaboration at Fuller Seminary. As co-author of Future Focused Church, Raymond shares a hopeful, grounded vision for how churches can embrace change, cultivate culture, and lead the next generation with clarity and purpose. Drawing from his experience in campus ministry, global missions, and as the president of the Asian American Christian Collaborative, Raymond offers practical wisdom on how to engage young people, make faithful decisions, and ground all change efforts in deep discipleship. The conversation touches on everything from listening well to those who resist, to why the worship service is often the worst place to initiate change. Key Themes: Why the future of the church is still bright Spiritual postures vs. spiritual practices The long, faithful work of building congregational imagination Creating culture change, not just cosmetic change Empowering transformation teams Leading with listening and honoring those who resist Why everything should be grounded in discipleship How to manage hard decisions with grace The danger of political syncretism in the church Raymond Chang is the executive director of the TENx10 Collaboration (part of Fuller Seminary), which is a collaborative movement that is geared toward reaching ten million young people over ten years with the gospel. He is also the president of the Asian American Christian Collaborative, a pastor, and a writer. Prior to his role at Fuller, Raymond served as the associate chaplain for discipleship at Wheaton College. He has worked in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors and served in the Peace Corps in Panama. He and his wife, Jessica Min Chang, are proud parents of Sophia, and they reside in Chicago. Mentioned Resources: 📱 Follow @raychang502 📖 Book: FutureFocusedChurch.com 🌐 TENx10.org: https://www.tenx10.org/ 🌐 Asian American Christian Collaboration: https://asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/ 🎧 Jeff Keuss: https://www.podbean.com/eas/pb-8wu23-1703189 Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

39분
6월 10일

Leading with Grace: Suzanne Nadell on Navigating Faith, Media & Polarization

How can the church learn from the newsroom? In this episode, Loren welcomes veteran journalist and media executive Suzanne Nadell to explore what faith leaders can gain from the world of communications. Drawing from her decades of experience in newsrooms across the country, Suzanne reflects on her own faith journey as a preacher’s kid, the challenge of navigating polarization, and how churches can better engage their communities by leading with grace, truth, and thoughtful storytelling. Suzanne shares lessons from her book Wired to Lead, discusses the importance of creating inclusive tables in church spaces, and reveals how spiritual practices like Sabbath and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit have shaped her in both professional and personal life. Whether you're a pastor, lay leader, or simply curious about the overlap between faith and media, this episode offers rich insights on leading well in divided times. Topics Covered: Suzanne’s faith story as a preacher’s kid who found her own faith in adulthood Lessons from the newsroom that church leaders should embrace Why churches must get out of their cultural bubbles Communicating hard truths with kindness How Sabbath is an act of trust in God Building healthier boundaries in a 24/7 world Tips for better communication and storytelling in church Why Suzanne finds inspiration in Priscilla and other overlooked women in scripture Her hope for a less politically divided and more community-rooted church Mentioned Resources: 📖 Her book: Wired to Lead 🌐 Suzanne's Website: https://suzannenadell.com/ 🌐 She Leads Church: https://www.sheleadschurch.com/ Presenting Sponsor: Phillips Seminary Join conversations that expose you to new ideas, deepen your commitment and give insights to how we can minister in a changing world. Supporting Sponsors: Restore Clergy If you are clergy in need of tailored, professional support to help you manage the demands of ministry, Restore Clergy is for you! Kokoro Join in for heartfelt journeys that challenges the way we see ourselves, each other, and the world we share. Future Christian Team: Loren Richmond Jr. – Host & Executive Producer Martha Tatarnic – Co-Host Paul Romig–Leavitt – Associate Producer Dennis Sanders – Producer Alexander Lang - Production Assistant

51분

모두 보기(200개)

4.8

최고 5점

29개의 평가

So Much Content

2022. 09. 14.

jonathanfosterlikesthis

There’s a ton of great content on this podcast. I’m thankful to have found it. I highly recommend. :)
Probably shouldn’t drive and listen

2022. 06. 20.

Kb21us

The thoughts brought to life on this podcast has helped me tremendously find my voice in a place I was left speechless.
Great for 21st century church leaders

2022. 03. 11.

Rev Andy Beck

Future Christian has leading theologians, scholars and church leadership experts that know what they’re talking about! I’ve learned so much from the diverse guests for my own ministry. Highly recommend!
Love it

2021. 10. 04.

Lisa SANHC

I highly recommend this excellent engaging and informative podcast!

At the Future Christian Podcast, we talk to pastors, authors, and other faith leaders for helpful advice and practical wisdom to help you lead your church into the future.