"To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson

Philip Amerson

Encouraging and cultivating a wider sense of mutuality and joy, the Belonging Exchangei provides resources, education, and times of celebration for congregations and local communities. One expression of this is through festivals and occasions for thoughtful reflection on faith and civic mutuality

  1. 6d ago ·  Bonus

    Best of To Be and Do: Bridging Communities and Circles of Joy with Calvin and Nelia Kimbrough

    Best of To Be and Do: Show Notes: To Be and Do In this heartfelt episode of To Be and Do, Phil Amerson welcomes longtime friends and collaborators, Calvin Kimbrough and Nelia Kimbrough, for a reflective and inspiring conversation about a lifetime of ministry, community building, and joyful, radical hospitality. With decades of collective experience as educators, artists, activists, and spiritual leaders, the Kimbroughs share vibrant stories from their journeys in places like Nashville, Atlanta, and Evansville. Listeners are treated to personal narratives that reveal how childhood experiences—like Nelia Kimbrough’s memories of a “hole in the hedge” connecting separate communities, and Calvin Kimbrough’s time with his grandfather in a segregated Nashville—formed a foundation for their lifelong commitment to bridging divides. The couple recounts how formative relationships and transformative experiences led them to co-found Patchwork Central and later join the Open Door Community, always centering their work on proximity to the marginalized. Phil Amerson, himself a participant in this shared history, draws out reflections on legacy and the evolving work of Patchwork Central. The Kimbroughs express deep joy seeing a new generation, represented by Amy and John Rich, expand and reimagine the mission. The conversation highlights how vital it is to keep ministries open to renewal, always responding dynamically to changing needs. Takeaways from the Episode: Bridging Divides: Whether through literal holes in hedges or inclusive worship services, true community is built by finding—then widening—connections between different groups. For the Kimbroughs, lasting joy comes from these small but transformative acts of bridging.Legacy and Adaptation: The Kimbroughs’ pride in Patchwork Central’s evolution, particularly the new initiatives after their leadership, underscores the importance of building institutions that outlast individuals and adapt to the times.Power of “Weak Ties” or Bridging Relationships: Communities flourish when they foster not only strong personal bonds but also many “bridging” relationships—expanding circles that renew and diversify participation.Learning from Proximity: Being close to suffering and need, as described in experiences at Open Door, is challenging but essential to authentic service. This proximity not only transforms those who serve but honors the dignity of those served.Supporting Evolving Work: The Kimbroughs encourage listeners to support organizations like Patchwork Central, reminding us all that lasting community work relies on ongoing engagement and generosity. This episode is a beautiful testament to a life dedicated to weaving relationships and creating spaces of belonging—a must-listen for anyone interested in community, faith, and the art of making connections that endure.

    22 min

  2. Jun 29

    Because: The Power of Storytelling in Overcoming Division and Creating Belonging

    In this "Because" episode of “To Be and Do,” the focus turns to a reflection on the difference between “shibboleth” and story—a conversation rooted in language, belonging, and the deeper meaning behind words. The episode opens with a reflection on the biblical term “shibboleth,” highlighting how, in the Book of Judges, it was used as a password to distinguish insiders from outsiders by the mere sound of a word. This serves as a springboard for considering how language can be used to divide or unite, particularly within the church and the broader society 00:02. The conversation focused on the way repeated catchphrases, or “shibboleths,” can become empty platitudes, especially when used without genuine understanding or connection. The discussion explored the sadness in hearing jargon and code words dominate dialogue within the nation and church settings, prompting the question: Do these words make any real difference 01:13? One concept discussed was the contrasting power of “story.” Through personal anecdote, the episode shares admiration for great storytellers who weave together the narrative of scripture and everyday life. The example of a friend, a Lutheran pastor known for his storytelling, illustrates how stories make teachings come alive and resonate on a deeper, more personal level 02:05. Story, as described, asks listeners to inhabit another narrative, to see life from a different angle—mirroring how Jesus himself taught in parables, offering lessons that sit alongside real life and prompt reflection 02:42. A key theme that emerged was the longing for meaningful narrative in places of worship, rather than repetitive code words. The episode invites listeners to seek the “deeper, more profound” encouragement that comes from narrative rather than from knowing and repeating the right insider language 03:15. Several points were raised, including the suggestion to read scripture for its stories and align those narratives with personal experience. The conversation closed with a prayerful hope that listeners not settle for surface-level code words but instead know and share the deeper stories about inclusive love, care, and hope for the world 03:53. Takeaway Points“Shibboleth” illustrates how language can serve as a barrier or a gateway to belonging.Empty repetition of code words and platitudes can diminish meaningful connection in communities.Storytelling holds transformative power, inviting empathy and deeper understanding.Scripture and daily life gain depth when explored through narrative rather than rote phrases.True spiritual community begins with engaging the deeper stories of love and care, not just reciting accepted language.

    5 min

  3. Jun 26 ·  Bonus

    Best of "To Be and Do": Understanding ICE, Civil Enforcement, and the Immigration Legal Maze with Christie Popp

    Best of "To Be and Do": Show Notes: To Be and Do Podcast In this eye-opening episode of the To Be and Do podcast, Philip Amerson sit down with attorney Christie Popp, a founding partner at Popp and Bullman Law Offices, to demystify the realities of immigration law and its intersection with current U.S. judicial practices. Christie Popp offers a candid, accessible overview of how immigration enforcement really works and the everyday injustices faced by immigrants—especially in Indiana and the broader United States. Whether you’re new to these topics or seeking a deeper understanding, this conversation sheds light on critical, often-misunderstood issues within our legal system. Three Major Takeaways1. The True Nature of ICE and Immigration Enforcement Christie Popp breaks down the role of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), clarifying that—contrary to common public perception—most immigration violations are civil, not criminal offenses. ICE operates differently from standard law enforcement: they don’t require a judge’s warrant to detain someone suspected of an immigration violation. Instead, a supervising ICE official alone can authorize an arrest, a stark departure from the checks and balances traditional police must follow. This gray area results in practices that skirt constitutional protections and often target individuals based on ethnicity or language. 2. The Problem with Immigration Holds and Local Enforcement The conversation delves into how local jails interact with ICE through what are called “immigration holds.” Christie Popp underscores that ICE can request local jails to detain individuals—who have already been cleared for release—for up to 48 hours purely on suspicion of a civil immigration violation. This practice leads to unconstitutional detention for civil (not criminal) reasons, trapping many non-violent individuals, often arrested for minor infractions like driving without a license, in a complicated legal web. The system is deeply flawed, as it penalizes people on civil grounds and disproportionately affects Latino communities. 3. Economic Hardships Within the Detention System Beyond legal injustices, Christie Popp highlights the pervasive economic burdens placed on detained individuals. Many face exorbitant fees for basic necessities—such as phone calls or commissary items—in jail, and those in immigration detention centers often perform mandatory labor despite having committed no crime. These policies not only capitalize on vulnerable populations but also underscore how the criminal and immigration systems have become increasingly punitive, even toward those who are simply seeking a better life. Key Quote: “ICE is really supposed to be a civil enforcement agency; they don’t get warrants from the court... The only person who is signing off on the arrest is a supervising official within the agency.” — Christie Popp Further Resources: Check the episode’s website for additional materials and YouTube links referenced by Philip Amerson and Christie Popp. Don’t miss this essential listen if you want to better understand the complexities of immigration law and the often-unseen obstacles faced by immigrants in America today. https://poppbullman.com/christie-popp/contact-christie/

    17 min

  4. Jun 22

    Because: Welcoming Strangers and Neighbors: Reflections on Belonging and Hospitality

    Episode OverviewThe conversation focused on the concept of welcoming strangers and the deeper societal and spiritual meanings behind how new people are received into communities. Using examples from both Midwest traditions and biblical scripture, the discussion explored the enduring power of hospitality, neighborliness, and the ethical responsibilities we have toward those considered “strangers.” Three Key Takeaways1. The Subtle Power of Language in Building CommunityOne concept discussed was the significance of greetings and their implications in forming communities. The distinction between being greeted as "neighbor" or as "stranger" was highlighted as a subtle but critical social signal. This seemingly simple choice of words determines more than just a welcome—it can influence whether someone feels they belong or remain on the outside 00:12, 00:18. The conversation noted traditions in the Midwest, where these forms of address act as cues for assessing a community's openness and inclusivity. 2. Scriptural Foundations for Hospitality and JusticeA key theme that emerged was the moral directive found in ancient scripture regarding how to treat newcomers and the vulnerable. Referencing Exodus 22, the discussion emphasized a call not to wrong or oppress a “resident alien,” drawing parallels to current issues of migration and detention 02:21, 02:27. The laws of restitution in these texts go beyond ritual—they are powerful reminders that compassion and justice for strangers are foundational values, instructing listeners not to exploit the vulnerability of newcomers but to extend generosity and protection. 3. The Lasting Impact of Stories Over RulesSeveral points were raised, including the idea that stories hold greater transformative power than mere rules 03:30, 03:38. The discussion explored the notion that while rules can become rigid and even corrupt, it is stories—and the myths, poems, and lived experiences they communicate—that shape cultures for the better and endure through generations. Through stories, lessons of kindness, mercy, and shared humanity gain emotional resonance, reminding us that any of us can find ourselves as the “resident alien,” hoping for a warm welcome. Final ReflectionThe conversation closed by invoking a universal blessing, underscoring that at any moment, each of us could be the newcomer, and the way we welcome others shapes not just communities, but the broader legacy of humanity 04:06, 04:12.

    5 min

  5. Jun 19

    God Be With You Understanding the Heartfelt Power Behind Each Goodbye

    Episode SummaryThe conversation focused on the meaning of interdependence versus independence, reflecting on what it means to be part of a larger community. Marking a pause after nearly 100 episodes, the discussion explored themes of transition, farewell, and ongoing connection, drawing inspiration from personal anecdotes and the work of Frederick Buechner. Listeners are invited to consider the significance behind the word "goodbye" and to recognize the depth of everyday partings, whether with friends, family, or the broader community. Three Takeaways1. The Deep Meaning of GoodbyeOne concept discussed was the origin and significance of the word "goodbye," which stems from the phrase "God be with you." The discussion explored how this traditional phrase encapsulates an ongoing connection rather than a permanent parting, reminding listeners that farewells often carry deep spiritual and emotional weight. The story of Frederick Buechner’s reflection on goodbyes, including vignettes of ordinary partings—a mother sending her child to school, friends leaving at an airport, or elderly companions sharing a final handshake—illustrated how goodbyes are woven into the fabric of daily life and community 04:00. 2. The Importance of Honoring TransitionsA key theme that emerged was the importance of honoring both large and small transitions in life. The episode offered personal anecdotes, such as a final goodbye with a dying friend, as moments to pause, offer gratitude, and extend blessing 06:03. These rituals, whether at a hospital bedside or the threshold of a new journey, are opportunities to express love, appreciate shared stories, and recognize the impermanence and beauty of each encounter. 3. Interdependence and Continuing CommunitySeveral points were raised, including the show’s foundational focus on belonging and interdependence. The discussion encouraged listeners to reflect on their role within larger communities and to value the connections that sustain them. Even as the podcast enters a summer pause—with the possibility of encore presentations and a future return—the message remained clear: community endures beyond regular gatherings or planned conversations 00:06. Listeners are encouraged to embody the spirit of "God be with you" in all their own transitions, making each goodbye an affirmation of continued connection and care 06:51. This episode serves as a gentle meditation on farewells, gratitude, and the threads of togetherness that continue to bind people even in moments of parting.

    7 min

  6. Jun 15

    Because: Trash on the Ground Divisions of Wealth, Blame, and Christian Charity

    This episode brings listeners a reflective monologue on the state of community, responsibility, and social judgment through the lens of everyday moments observed in a city neighborhood. The conversation focused on the issue of trash and debris in public and private spaces, using these scenes as a springboard to explore broader societal concerns about empathy, wealth distribution, and how different groups are perceived and treated. The narrative opens with an evocative account of witnessing a woman, barefoot and wrapped in a blanket, searching through trash cans in a city park early in the morning. This real-life moment raises immediate questions about homelessness, poverty, and how acts of survival can inadvertently contribute to visible disorder. The discussion explored how such situations are often met with annoyance or frustration, especially from those living in more comfortable circumstances, yet rarely with the empathy these individuals deserve 00:32. A key theme that emerged was the double standard society holds when it comes to assessing who creates mess and who deserves forgiveness. Several points were raised, including the observation that local students frequently litter their housing areas—sometimes to a shocking degree, with hundreds of beer cans scattered across a yard—yet this behavior is downplayed or excused as a harmless consequence of youth. In contrast, when people experiencing homelessness are involved, the mess is often framed as a reflection of deeper moral or character flaws 01:50. One concept discussed was the idea of "private affluence and public squalor," a phrase drawn from John Kenneth Galbraith's book The Affluent Society. This concept encapsulates the troubling contrast between personal prosperity and collective neglect—a dynamic that the speaker argues has marked American life for decades. The conversation invites listeners to reflect on why certain problems (like high infant mortality rates or the lack of social support) persist amid national wealth, and who society chooses to blame or forgive 02:46. Ultimately, the episode urges a shift in perspective. Instead of directing frustration solely at visible disorder, it calls for an embrace of collective responsibility and compassion, rooted in genuine charity rather than superficial judgment. The speaker contemplates the next steps—not just picking up literal trash, but also challenging the "trashy" ideas and theology that divide communities and excuse systemic inequality 03:31. Key Takeaways:Everyday encounters with public disorder can serve as catalysts for deeper reflection on empathy and social structure.There is a significant double standard in how society judges the actions of different groups, often rooted in long-standing prejudices.The concept of "private affluence and public squalor" remains relevant, urging a national conversation about shared responsibility.Genuine Christian charity, or simple human kindness, offers a path forward in addressing both material and ideological "trash."Change begins with small acts of compassion and the willingness to question prevailing assumptions about blame and worth.

    5 min

  7. Jun 12

    Lessons in Grief A Father’s Story of Faith Amid Tragedy with Tom Heaton

    Episode SummaryIn this deeply moving episode, Philip Amerson welcomes Tom Heaton for a candid and vulnerable conversation on grief, faith, and the abiding power of human connection. Tom Heaton, a pastor, blogger, and humanitarian, shares the tragic experiences of losing both of his sons, Jose and Manny, to acts of violence. The episode explores his responses not just as a father but also as a Christian and a pastor, and what these experiences have taught him about God, prayer, and being present for others during times of unspeakable pain. Listeners are guided into a discussion that goes well beyond personal sorrow and toward a broader conversation on theology, community, and finding hope when faced with life's harshest realities. Three Key Takeaways1. The Transformative Power of PresenceTom Heaton reflects on how, even in the deepest moments of grief, the presence and care of others—friends, colleagues, even unexpected individuals like Detective Trent Stinson—became tangible manifestations of God’s love and comfort (08:02). Rather than theological answers or empty reassurances, it was “God's warm embrace” through community that helped him hold on in his darkest hours. 2. Redefining Prayer and God’s Role in SufferingTom Heaton shares an evolution in his understanding of God and prayer. He rejects the notion of a "puppet master" God who controls every event, emphasizing instead a God who is always present with us, who “cries with us” in pain (12:15). Prayer, for Tom Heaton, becomes less about asking for intervention and more about being present with the divine presence that remains steadfast through suffering and loss. 3. The Importance of Honest and Compassionate TheologyBoth Philip Emerson and Tom Heaton critique "bad theology" that tries to offer quick or simplistic explanations for tragedy, such as suggesting God needed another angel or orchestrates loss for a reason (14:09). Instead, they advocate for a theology centered on compassion, honesty, and the recognition of human agency and freedom—even when it causes pain. Their discussion urges a faith that accompanies, not explains away, grief and brokenness. Resources and Further ReadingFind more of Tom Heaton’s reflections at his blog here.Recommended theologian: Marjorie Suhaki on God’s presence in suffering (15:18). To share your story or find support in grief, connect with us at the Belonging Exchange. Learn MoreTo support or learn about Mission Guatemala, visit missionguatemala.comWant more stories of connection and belonging? Check out past episodes on our blog.ABOUT TOM HEATONTom Heaton is a retired United Methodist pastor who served congregations across Indiana for nearly thirty years and later led mission and justice ministries for the Indiana Conference of the UMC.He is also the founder of Mission Guatemala, a nonprofit ministry serving rural communities in Guatemala through healthcare, education, nutrition, and community development. His years in Guatemala deeply shaped both his faith and the way he understands prayer, suffering, and the presence of God in ordinary life.Tom holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from the University of Evansville and a Master of Divinity from Christian Theological Seminary. He writes and speaks about faith, prayer, grief, and everyday life with honesty, warmth, and a pastor’s heart.email: tsheaton@icloud.com

    24 min

  8. Jun 8

    Because: Learning from Extended Families: Challenging Traditional Notions in Church Communities

    Episode OverviewThe conversation focused on reflecting upon recent calls by Indiana's governor and lieutenant governor to emphasize the biblical mandate behind the so-called "nuclear family" during the month of June. The discussion challenged the narrow interpretation of family promoted by political and religious leaders, highlighting the broader, more inclusive portrayal of family found in scripture and lived experience. Personal anecdotes, biblical references, and a powerful story about a professor’s encounter with Native American family life were used to question exclusionary definitions and urge listeners to reconsider what it means to be “God’s family.” Three Takeaways1. Questioning the “Biblical Mandate” for the Nuclear FamilyA key theme that emerged was the critique of official attempts to define family strictly as one man, one woman, and children. The discussion explored how this interpretation is not only limiting but also inconsistent with the biblical record itself. Several points were raised, including references to Abraham and Sarah, Moses, and even Jesus, none of whom fit neatly into the so-called traditional nuclear family model 00:59–01:14. The conversation underscored the selective reading of scripture used to justify these narrow definitions and highlighted the exclusion of orphans and widows from such narratives. 2. Learning from Broader Family TraditionsOne concept discussed was the experience of a Christian professor who, tasked with teaching about family in the Midwest, encountered Native American forms of family that differed radically from the stereotypical nuclear setup. Rather than insisting on his own definitions, the professor was humble enough to learn from these families, realizing that kinship and support go far beyond traditional images 02:11–02:56. This anecdote illustrated the value of cultural humility and openness to learning about real family dynamics as they are lived by different communities. 3. Expanding Faith Communities’ Definition of FamilyThe discussion explored how many churches proclaim themselves as “family churches,” yet often fail in practice to fully welcome single mothers, orphans, or widows 03:31. A call to action was issued for listeners and faith communities to rethink belonging and kinship within the “Kingdom of God,” encouraging greater inclusivity and empathy. The segment urged that being part of God’s family means embracing everyone, not just those who fit a prescribed mold. Final ReflectionListeners are encouraged to move beyond received notions about who constitutes a family and to embrace diverse, inclusive forms of kinship, learning from both scripture and the lived experiences of others 03:54.

    5 min
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Encouraging and cultivating a wider sense of mutuality and joy, the Belonging Exchangei provides resources, education, and times of celebration for congregations and local communities. One expression of this is through festivals and occasions for thoughtful reflection on faith and civic mutuality

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