Holy Shenanigans

Tara Lamont Eastman

Holy Shenanigans shares stories that surprise, encourage, and sometimes even turn life upside down – all in the name of love. Your muse is Tara Lamont Eastman, pastor, podcaster and practitioner of Holy Shenanigans . Join her on a journey of unforgettable spiritual adventure that is always sacred but never stuffy.

  1. From Rushed to Rooted: Learning to Appreciate Everyday Moments with Kate Fenstermacher

    5D AGO

    From Rushed to Rooted: Learning to Appreciate Everyday Moments with Kate Fenstermacher

    Step into the spirit of Easter and Spring renewal with a conversation about creativity, nature, and the sacred rhythms of everyday life. In this episode of Holy Shenanigans, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman sits down with floral artist Kate Fenstermacher of Bough and Bend Floral to explore how beauty, art, and the natural world can help us slow down, heal, and reconnect. Together, they reflect on the power of flowers to mark life’s most meaningful moments—from joy to grief—and how creative expression opens the door to deeper connection, mindfulness, and personal growth. Kate shares her journey of building a floral business rooted in belonging and authenticity, while Tara offers a moving poem that reminds us: we each carry a universe within us. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, emotional healing, or simply a gentler way of living, this episode invites you to embrace the “simple gifts” of life—and discover how renewal is always within reach. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover:  How creativity supports healing and mental health  Why nature helps us feel more connected and grounded  The spiritual practice of slowing down and simple living  Encouragement for personal growth during seasons of change 🌿 Perfect for listeners interested in: Easter and Spring reflection, mindfulness, creativity, nature, and meaningful connection. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    23 min
  2. From Loneliness to Lifeline: The Surprising Power of a Simple Walk

    APR 15

    From Loneliness to Lifeline: The Surprising Power of a Simple Walk

    In a world where loneliness is more common than ever, what if the path back to connection is simpler than we think? In this episode of Holy Shenanigans, Tara shares a heartfelt story of an unexpected friendship that began with ordinary morning walks—and became a lifeline of encouragement, belonging, and lasting connection. Through this personal reflection and the powerful story of the road to Emmaus (Luke 24), we explore how meaningful relationships are often formed in the most everyday moments. What can a simple walk and conversation teach us about healing, hope, and spiritual growth? And how might we already be encountering the sacred—without even realizing it? You’ll be invited into a gentle, imaginative Lectio Divina practice to experience scripture in a fresh way, while also reflecting on your own relationships:  When was the last time you truly felt encouraged?  Who might need your encouragement today?  And what could happen if you simply reached out? This episode is for anyone longing for deeper connection, navigating loneliness, or seeking to rediscover the presence of God in everyday life. ✨ You might just find that the walk you’ve been needing… is already waiting for you. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    17 min
  3. Experience Holy Week Differently: Seeing Scripture Come Alive Through the Power of Imaginative Prayer

    APR 1

    Experience Holy Week Differently: Seeing Scripture Come Alive Through the Power of Imaginative Prayer

    Experience Holy Week in a deeper, more imaginative way. 🌿 What if you didn’t just read Scripture—but entered into it? In this Holy Week episode of Holy Shenanigans, we explore the transformative practice of imaginative prayer, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, and how it can help you encounter Jesus in a more personal, sensory, and meaningful way. Through a guided reflection on Palm Sunday (Matthew 21:1–11), you’re invited to see, hear, and feel the story unfold—placing yourself within the scene as the crowds cry “Hosanna!” and Jesus enters Jerusalem. Together, we’ll explore: How Lectio Divina and Visio Divina can deepen your experience of ScriptureWhy imagination is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and renewalWhat it means to “see with the eyes of your heart” during LentHow creative practices—like poetry and reflection—can become forms of prayerThis episode also includes an original poetic prayer inspired by Palm Sunday and a gentle invitation to carry imagination, hope, and openness with you throughout Holy Week. Whether you’re new to contemplative practices or looking to refresh your faith journey, this episode offers a meaningful way to experience Scripture anew. ✨ Perfect for: Lent reflections, Holy Week preparation, contemplative prayer, Christian meditation, and spiritual formation. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    15 min
  4. From Stones to Bread: How God Shows Up in Your Hardest Seasons

    MAR 15

    From Stones to Bread: How God Shows Up in Your Hardest Seasons

    In this Lenten reflection, we step into the wilderness with Jesus and explore what it means to encounter God in seasons of hunger, testing, and uncertainty. Drawing from Matthew 4, this episode reflects on the powerful symbols of stones and bread—reminders that even in life’s most difficult moments, God’s presence is closer than we think. Have you ever found yourself in a “wilderness” season—feeling stretched, uncertain, or searching for meaning? Through scripture, story, and gentle spiritual practice, you’re invited to remember who you are and whose you are. What if the very places that feel empty are actually filled with God’s provision? This episode offers encouragement for anyone navigating hard seasons, inviting you to notice the sacred in everyday life and to trust that you are not alone. You’ll also be guided through a simple, tangible Lenten practice—carrying a stone as a reminder of God’s nearness wherever you go. ✨ In this episode, you’ll discover:  What Jesus’ temptation in the wilderness reveals about faith and identity  The deeper meaning of stones and bread in the biblical story  How to recognize God’s presence in your own life  A simple spiritual practice to carry through the Lenten season Whether you’re observing Lent or simply longing for reassurance in a challenging time, this reflection offers a moment to pause, remember, and be renewed. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    9 min
  5. How to Turn Ordinary Moments into Sacred Strength: A Lenten Transformation

    MAR 1

    How to Turn Ordinary Moments into Sacred Strength: A Lenten Transformation

    In this meaningful Lenten conversation, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman is joined by Rev. Ellen Corcella--author of "Walk With Me: A Journey Through the Landscape of Trauma" and host of The Faith and Resilience Podcast--to explore the power of resilience and the sacred hidden within everyday life. Together, they reflect on how resilience is not just an individual trait, but something nurtured through connection—to God, to others, and to the present moment. Drawing on the wisdom of Julian of Norwich and her simple yet profound “hazelnut” metaphor, this episode invites listeners to slow down and notice the sacred in ordinary experiences—a cup of coffee, a conversation, a breath between moments. Through storytelling, poetry, and spiritual practices like Lectio Divina and contemplative reflection, Tara shares how creativity and theopoetics can open new pathways to meaning, healing, and hope. Whether you are walking through a season of wilderness or simply navigating the rhythms of daily life, this episode offers a gentle reminder: you are already surrounded by grace. In both the mountaintops and the valleys, you are made, loved, and kept. Join us for a thoughtful, grounding conversation that encourages you to embrace “thin spaces” right where you are—and to discover that all manner of things, even now, can be well. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    25 min
  6. Championing Women in Ministry with Dr. Crystal Hall

    FEB 1

    Championing Women in Ministry with Dr. Crystal Hall

    Tara interviews Dr. Crystal Hall from Crystal Hall Coaching about supporting and affirming women in ministry. Dr. Hall shares her journey, the challenges women face in ministry, and the importance of cultivating sustainable and life-giving ministries. The conversation explores themes of patriarchal structures and the significance of women's voices in proclaiming the gospel. Listen in on an inspiring discussion of the intersections of St. Brigid's Day, earth traditions, and the contributions of women saints like Brigid and Hildegard of Bingen. Hearth Keeper Prayer of St. Brigid - from St. Brigids.org Brigid of the Mantle, encompass us, Lady of the Lambs, protect us, Keeper of the Hearth, kindle us. Beneath your mantle, gather us, And restore us to memory. Mothers of our mother, Foremothers strong. Guide our hands in yours, Remind us how to kindle the hearth. To keep it bright, to preserve the flame. Your hands upon ours, Our hands within yours, To kindle the light, Both day and night. The Mantle of Brigid about us, The Memory of Brigid within us, The Protection of Brigid keeping us From harm, from ignorance, from heartlessness. This day and night, From dawn till dark, From dark till dawn. Send Tara a Text Message Support the show Rev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020.  Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America).  She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.

    30 min
5
out of 5
24 Ratings

About

Holy Shenanigans shares stories that surprise, encourage, and sometimes even turn life upside down – all in the name of love. Your muse is Tara Lamont Eastman, pastor, podcaster and practitioner of Holy Shenanigans . Join her on a journey of unforgettable spiritual adventure that is always sacred but never stuffy.

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