On Being with Krista Tippett

Religious pronouncements seem to have become mandatory for the Democratic candidates in this election. Yet it’s been easy to deride the resulting sound bites that are widely repeated—such as Howard Dean’s proclamation of his favorite book of the New Testament: the Old Testament book of Job. Host Krista Tippett takes a larger view of what this election has to say about the role of religion in American life. Is it changing, and if so, what is substantive and important in that change? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Paul II’s papacy was dramatic and historic on many fronts. We explore some of the critical religious issues of his 26 years as pontiff and discusses the great and contradictory impact he made on the Catholic Church in America and abroad. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Roberta Bondi, a church history professor, leads a discussion on the evolving nature of prayer across cultures. Gregory Plotnikoff highlights the integration of spirituality into modern medicine, revealing how prayer can enhance healing. Michele Balamani shares insights on incorporating prayer in psychotherapy, especially within African American communities. Anoushka Shankar explores the spiritual depth of Hindu chants, while Stephen Mitchell discusses the non-religious aspects of prayer. The conversation culminates in examining how prayer fosters genuine spiritual connections and transformative experiences.

Lori Zoloth, a prominent bioethicist and scholar of rabbinic wisdom, dives deep into the ethical complexities surrounding cloning. She discusses how historical narratives, such as the golem legend, shape our current understanding of bioethics. Zoloth explores the transformative implications of cloning on parenthood and identity, urging a shift from individual rights to community responsibilities. The conversation also touches on the intersection of technology and faith, prompting listeners to reconsider their views on life and scientific advancement.

Coleen Rowley, a former FBI special agent and whistleblower, shares her harrowing journey of raising alarms about pre-9/11 intelligence failures. Tim McGuire, a columnist focused on ethics and workplace spirituality, dives into the moral complexities of professional integrity. Together, they discuss the personal sacrifices involved in whistleblowing, the interplay of ethics and heroism, and the urgent need for accountability in organizations. Their insights highlight the importance of aligning personal values with professional responsibilities in today's world.

The General Convention of the Episcopal Church has sharpened our culture’s intensifying focus on homosexuality. In a year of political and religious milestones for gays and lesbians, Gene Robinson became the first openly gay man to be elected an Episcopal Bishop. There were 11th-hour allegations of impropriety. But in the end, the laity, clergy, and House of Bishops of the Church confirmed his election. This week, we set aside the ins and outs of the Robinson controversy. The public furor over this event flows, in part, from our culture’s confusion over what it might mean to morally condone homosexual relationships. And Gene Robinson aside, this issue remains an ongoing source of bitter debate among Anglicans and in most of the mainline churches in this country. How can people of faith reach radically different conclusions while living in the same tradition? Host Krista Tippett engages two Episcopal bishops on either side of the matter in a thoughtful conversation that aims to clarify our understanding of the religious issues at stake. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rebecca Chopp, a feminist theologian and President of Colgate University, along with Mary Stewart Van Leeuwen, a social scientist and evangelical Christian feminist, and Kecia Ali, a Muslim feminist scholar, offer profound insights on women's evolving roles in religion and marriage. They challenge traditional narratives of female subordination, advocating for equality and collaboration. The discussion explores the interpretation of biblical stories, the complexities of gender and Islamic tradition, and how young children view divinity, ultimately promoting a harmonious intersection of faith and feminism.

Elliot Dorff, a rabbi and expert in Jewish law and ethics, shares his profound insights on marriage, family, and divorce in Jewish tradition. He delves into the nuances of Biblical teachings, examining how age-old texts resonate with contemporary ideals. The conversation touches on the importance of companionship in marriage, the egalitarian concept of 'Ezer K'negdo,' and the complexities surrounding modern family dynamics, including LGBTQ+ inclusion. Dorff emphasizes the evolution of Jewish law and the emotional nuances of divorce, advocating for a compassionate understanding of relationships.

In this engaging talk, Luke Timothy Johnson, a New Testament scholar, dives into the complexities of marriage, family, and divorce through a biblical lens. He discusses how American views on courtship intertwine with ancient scriptures, revealing surprising ambiguities in New Testament teachings. The conversation also touches on the evolving definitions of family, the role of personal choice, and modern implications of love and ethics within marriage. They challenge conventional church stances on sexuality and call for a more inclusive understanding in faith communities.

Elliot Dorff, a distinguished rabbi and expert in Jewish law, teams up with Luke Timothy Johnson, a theologian well-versed in Christian traditions. Together, they explore the profound influences of biblical teachings on marriage, family, and divorce. They discuss the evolving definitions of family in the context of modern relationships, including same-sex marriages, and the practical applications of Jewish traditions. The conversation dives into how sacred texts convey complex messages about love, companionship, and the importance of community support throughout history.