The Collective Voice

Phillip Dieke
  • 5.0 (4)
  • CHRISTIANITY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The Collective Voice is a production of The 787 Collective at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with the purpose of centering young adult voices and the experience of young adults in their ongoing faith exploration and formation.  The Collective Voice consists of three shows: Belonging, Faith Transitions, and Have you Heard Belonging documents the everyday spiritual lives of young adutls in churches and faith organizations with The 787 Collective. These conversations explore the role of young adults in their churches and organizations and invites their reflections on being a young adult Christian.Faith Transitions shares the highs and lows of young adult Christian leaders within The 787 Collective network. These conversations feature The 787 Collective Campaign leaders and other young adults sharing about the transient nature of young adulthood through the lens of faith.Have You Heard (about)... this show provides firsthand insights about current topics, innovation, and interests relevant to the spiritual desires and needs of young adults. These conversations bring insights from authors, experts, innovation partners, thinkers, and theologians. This a great space for curiosity.If you are a young adult who would like to join us on The Collective Voice, email us at 787@austinseminary.edu. You can find the video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel. The 787 Collective is funded by Austin Seminary and a grant from the Lilly Endowment.

  1. 5D AGO

    From Rural Roots to Urban Ministry with Rev. Sean McDonald

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Sean McDonald shares his journey from a small rural church in Virginia to becoming a pastor and church planter in the Bishop Arts area of Dallas. He discusses the importance of mentorship in his life, the challenges of ministry, and his vision for reaching young adults and the unchurched. Sean emphasizes the need for authenticity in ministry and the importance of serving the community to build trust. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of faith and the church's role in connecting with younger generations. Sean also shares his reflection on Lent and how his understanding of this season has evolved over time.  Connect with Sean: sean@mungerplace.org TikTok: revseanmcdonald Instagram: oldmcdonald89 Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reverend Sean McDonald 05:55 Journey of Faith and Ministry 10:37 The Importance of Mentorship 12:59 Challenges in Youth Ministry 18:09 Vision for Church Planting 24:22 The Call to Church Planting 25:20 Navigating Spiritual Needs as a Pastor 26:38 Faith in Action: Leaning on Prayer 28:32 Embracing Uncertainty in Ministry 30:21 Understanding the Community of Bishop Arts 35:13 Authenticity and Connection with Young Adults 39:10 Lenten Reflections and Spiritual Growth 43:40 Connecting with the Next Generation of Leaders

    47 min

  2. FEB 21

    Joy in the Midst of Resistance with Samantha Johnson

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Phil Dieke and Rev. Cecie Suknaic engage in a heartfelt conversation with Samantha Johnson, exploring themes of community, music, justice, and the evolving role of young adults in ministry. They discuss the importance of grounding practices amidst societal tensions, the role of music in faith formation, and how innovative approaches to ministry can foster intergenerational connections. The conversation also touches on the significance of justice in worship and the blending of the secular and sacred, culminating in reflections on Lenten practices and community service. The discussion also talks about Sam's experiences in Minnesota as the community has responded to ICE and how neighbors have showed up for one another. Show Notes: Gather NetworkGather: Twin CitiesSinging Resistance Chapters 00:00 Introduction to The Collective Voice 02:04 Community Engagement and Grounding Practices 06:00 The Role of Music in Faith and Community 11:54 Justice and Music: A Theological Exploration 17:03 Innovative Ministry and the Spirit of Creativity 21:04 Singing Resistance and Collective Grieving 26:41 Transcendence in Music and Worship 28:03 The Search for Belonging 29:05 Challenging Traditional Worship Practices 33:31 Navigating Generational Differences in Faith 35:00 God's Love Beyond Understanding 40:21 The Future of Young Adult Ministry 43:54 Lenten Practices and Personal Growth

    51 min

  3. FEB 14

    The Journey to (and of) Ministry with Hannah Thomas

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Phil Dieke and Rev. Cecie Suknaic welcome Hannah Thomas, the Faith Formation Director at First Presbyterian Church of Bryan, Texas. The conversation explores Hannah's diverse background, her journey into ministry, and the importance of patience and vulnerability in faith formation. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from a fast-paced educational environment to a more deliberate approach in ministry, the significance of mentorship, and the beauty of community. Hannah shares her personal struggles with mental health and the journey of finding a welcoming church home after moving back to her hometown. The episode emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, the richness of diverse experiences, and the beauty found in everyday moments. Show Notes: First Presbyterian Church of Bryan, Texas Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 02:08 Hannah's Background and Diverse Skills 04:52 Balancing Urgency and Patience in Ministry 08:15 Cultivating Community and Vulnerability 12:31 Navigating Mentorship and Support in Ministry 13:52 The Importance of Community and Vulnerability 18:47 Transitioning to PCUSA and Returning Home 24:45 Struggles with Faith and Community 28:16 Finding Inclusive Spaces in Faith 34:57 Navigating Change and Returning Home 39:56 Embracing Growth and Family Dynamics 47:28 Finding Beauty in Community and Connection

    52 min

  4. FEB 6

    Finding Belonging in the Church and Beyond with Bianca Blaney

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Phil and Cecie engage with Bianca Blaney, a co-leader of Gather Austin and middle school teacher, discussing her journey within the Lutheran community, the importance of belonging, and the role of mentorship in young adulthood. Bianca shares her experiences balancing her teaching career with church involvement, emphasizing the significance of community and connection in navigating the challenges of young adulthood. The conversation highlights the need for the church to create spaces for young adults to engage and contribute meaningfully, while also recognizing the diverse paths individuals take in their faith journeys. Show Notes: Triumphant Love Lutheran ChurchGather:Austin  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gather and Community Engagement 04:45 Bianca's Journey and Involvement in Gather 09:50 Balancing Teaching and Community Service 14:40 The Role of Mentorship in Young Adulthood 19:28 Building Connections and Community Support 25:01 The Challenge of Reading and Inspiration 25:32 Triumphant Love and Personal Connections 29:03 Understanding the Young Adult Experience 30:06 Navigating Adulthood and Community Building 33:59 The Importance of Inclusivity in the Church 38:04 Leadership and Opportunities for Young Adults 39:57 Finding Meaning and Confidence in Community 44:45 The Value of Diverse Ministries

    47 min

  5. JAN 23

    Finding Belonging in Ecumenical Places with Owen Copps

    In this episode of the Collective Voice podcast, Rev. Phil Dieke, Rev. CeCie Suknaic, and Owen Copps explore themes of faith, community, and belonging. They discuss Owen's journey from the mountains of Colorado to seminary in Austin, the importance of creating and finding community, and the role of justice work in faith. The conversation delves into the challenges of transitions, the significance of intergenerational connections, and the exploration of personal call and purpose in ministry. Show Notes: Gather NetworkSeminary of the SouthwestFirst Light Coffee in AustinBook People in AustinYellow Bike ProjectChapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 04:26 Nature and Faith: Owen's Journey 09:53 The Search for Belonging 20:02 Finding Community in Austin 27:42 The Role of Young Adults in Faith Communities 38:32 Navigating Transitions and Future Aspirations

    46 min

  6. 12/10/2025

    Flipping Tables: A Call to Justice with Brien McChesney

    In this episode, Rev. Phil Dieke interviews Brian McChesney, a young adult passionate about advocacy, justice, and ministry. Brian shares his journey from aspiring architect to pursuing ordination in the United Methodist Church, emphasizing the importance of integrating justice into congregational life. He discusses his experiences in seminary, the significance of the Flipping Tables initiative at Violet Crown City Church in Austin, TX, and the upcoming Nativity Demonstration focused on immigration advocacy taking place at the Texas Capitol on December 20th. The conversation highlights the need for community, belonging, and theological imagination in faith, as well as the importance of nurturing one's soul amidst activism. Show Notes The Writing on the Wall: Signs of Faith Against Fascism - Eric MartinIllustrated MinistryRSVP for the Nativity Demonstration on December 20th in AustinEmail Brien - brien@violetcrown.churchChapters 00:00 Introduction to Brian McChesney and His Journey 02:53 The Call to Justice in Ministry 06:07 The Role of Seminary in Shaping Faith 08:55 Exploring the Flipping Tables Initiative 11:41 The Significance of the Nativity in Immigration Advocacy 14:50 Building Community and Belonging in Faith 17:55 Theological Imagination and Childlike Faith 19:53 Nurturing the Soul Amidst Activism 20:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

    52 min

  7. 11/21/2025

    Wild Church Fresno with Rebeca Pessoa

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Phil Dieke speaks with Becca Pessoa about her journey into spiritual leadership and the formation of Wild Church Fresno. They discuss the importance of connecting with nature, the role of environmental justice, and how Becca's personal experiences have shaped her understanding of spirituality. The conversation highlights the significance of community, storytelling, and the need for a deeper connection to the earth and each other. Do you find spiritual connection in nature? We'd love to hear about it. Show Notes: Wild Church Fresno Website, Instagram, FacebookWillow Mennonie ChurchSovereign Spirits InstagramRebeca Pessoa Instagram Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wild Church and Personal Background 09:56 Connection to the Watershed and Environmental Justice 19:53 Structure and Activities of Wild Church Fresno 29:52 Community Engagement and Personal Stories 30:30 The Role of Wild Church in Community 33:13 Redefining Spirituality and Christ 38:51 Sovereign Spirit: A Personal Journey 44:45 Final Thoughts on Spiritual Connection

    52 min

  8. 11/07/2025

    Hungry for Hope: A Conversation with JD Mechelke on Environmental Catastrophe

    In this episode of The Collective Voice, Rev. Phil Dieke engages in a profound conversation with JD Mechelke about the themes of climate justice, hope, and the role of the church in addressing the climate crisis. They explore the implications of living in the Anthropocene, the myth of progress, and the importance of facing hopelessness. The discussion also highlights indigenous perspectives and the need for a revised eschatology that reflects the current realities of climate change. Through personal stories and theological reflections, they emphasize the necessity of action and resilience in the face of environmental catastrophe. Show Notes: Hungry for Hope: Letters to the Church from Young AdultsDavid Wallace Wells - The Uninhabitable EarthTalitha Amadea Aho - In Deep Waters: Spiritual Care for Young People in a Climate CrisisLauren Berlant - Cruel OptimismBarbara Brown Taylor - Learning to Walk in the DarkDonna Haraway - Staying with the Trouble: Making Kin in the ChthuluceneAnna Tsing - The Mushroom at the End of the World: On the Possibility of Life in Capitalist Ruins Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hungry for Hope 02:51 Exploring Climate Catastrophe 05:37 Personal Journey and Climate Awareness 08:46 Theological Reflections on Climate Change 11:27 The Myth of Progress and Its Implications 14:34 Hope and Hopelessness in the Anthropocene 17:20 Indigenous Perspectives on Hope 20:38 The Role of the Church in Climate Action 23:28 Rethinking Eschatology 26:13 Stories of Resilience and Beauty 29:19 Concluding Thoughts on Hope and Action

    53 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Collective Voice is a production of The 787 Collective at Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary with the purpose of centering young adult voices and the experience of young adults in their ongoing faith exploration and formation.  The Collective Voice consists of three shows: Belonging, Faith Transitions, and Have you Heard Belonging documents the everyday spiritual lives of young adutls in churches and faith organizations with The 787 Collective. These conversations explore the role of young adults in their churches and organizations and invites their reflections on being a young adult Christian.Faith Transitions shares the highs and lows of young adult Christian leaders within The 787 Collective network. These conversations feature The 787 Collective Campaign leaders and other young adults sharing about the transient nature of young adulthood through the lens of faith.Have You Heard (about)... this show provides firsthand insights about current topics, innovation, and interests relevant to the spiritual desires and needs of young adults. These conversations bring insights from authors, experts, innovation partners, thinkers, and theologians. This a great space for curiosity.If you are a young adult who would like to join us on The Collective Voice, email us at 787@austinseminary.edu. You can find the video version of this podcast on our YouTube channel. The 787 Collective is funded by Austin Seminary and a grant from the Lilly Endowment.

Information

  • Creator
    Phillip Dieke
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Phillip Dieke
  • Show Website
    The Collective Voice