

Liminal Living
Dr. Thomas J Rundel
Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to uncover the hidden wisdom that lies within the liminal spaces of life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 14, 2024 • 1h 16min
74: Anthony Smith: Faith, Race, and Politics
ChaptersIntroductions Faith Rooted Organizer Anthony vs Confederate Statue An Ecumenical Exorcism of White Nationalism and RacismAn Apocalyptic moment and call Christians call to apocalyptic action Hyper individualism and its damage on society The Gospel and White Jesus made an atheist The Gospel evolve to meet us White Christian Nationalism is a form of bad Atheism Christianity as ideology for the nation state is bad news A Heart attack and an existential crisis The Sound of the Genuine Don’t live apologetically Pay attention and find purpose Conclusions
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Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 7min
73: Chris Green: Dead Answers vs Living Questions
Chapters Intro Theology and Art Where does art come from? What does art do? Art involves us in the truth Art opens us up to truth Imagination and Faith Sweaty Pentecostalism Knowing more about demons than about God Bonhoeffer A true place to belong Incarnation shows us what God is like Conclusion
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 31, 2024 • 1h 11min
72: Matthew J Distefano: The Wisdom of Hobbits for Today
Key points include:• The unhealthy balance between individual well-being and community demands in evangelical settings.• The symbolic and inspirational aspects of Tolkien’s stories and how they relate to real-life experiences.• The importance of continuing to do good without relying on miraculous interventions.• Reflections on the role of marginalized voices in pursuing true justice and equity.The episode delves into the deeper, often overlooked, emotional and spiritual struggles within religious communities, emphasizing the need for genuine connection and personal growth.Links:Buy the Book [click here]check out God Squad [click here]check out Heretic Happy Hour [click here]
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 24, 2024 • 1h 17min
71: Larry Jordan: Non Religious Spirituality
TakeawaysHold beliefs loosely and be open to subjective experiences and objective evidence.Recognize the limitations of creedal faith and the need for a more contextualized understanding of God.Explore the concept of oneness and the connection between mysticism, science, and different religious traditions.Embrace a sense of awe, gratitude, and responsibility towards everyone and everything.Question and challenge traditional beliefs and seek a more expansive spirituality.Contextualizing God in the modern culture requires holding beliefs more loosely and embracing the diversity of religious and theological perspectives.Reflecting on what is essential to one's faith and being open to different interpretations can help address improper understandings of God.Moving away from a fear-based understanding of religion and focusing on love, compassion, and service can lead to a healthier and more inclusive spirituality.Exploring different spiritual practices and engaging with diverse religious traditions can deepen one's understanding and connection to ultimate reality.Questioning and reevaluating beliefs is a necessary part of spiritual growth and evolution.ChaptersLarry's Background and RetirementExploring Faith and Writing a BookQuestioning Beliefs and Evolution of ThoughtContextualizing God in Modern CultureThe Limitations of Creedal FaithChallenges of Modern ChristianityContextualizing God in the Modern CultureMoving Away from Fear-Based ReligionQuestioning and Reevaluating BeliefsExploring Different Spiritual PracticesLinks:Buy the Book here: [click here for Amazon link]Connect with Larry Here: https://larryjordanauthor.com/
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 17, 2024 • 45min
70: Tom Rundel: Recognize High Control Religious Language
Take AwaysLiminality is the space between what was and what will be, where we are trying to figure out how to be in a rapidly changing world.High-control religious environments can be toxic and manipulative, exerting authority over individuals and stifling personal growth.It is important to recognize and reject religious jargon that seeks to control and manipulate others.Reclaiming common human experiences, such as compassion, honesty, and justice, can help transcend religious boundaries and foster understanding.When confronted with high-control individuals, it is important to remember that you are not crazy, not engage in their games, and find a way to exit the conversation.ChaptersIntroduction to Liminal Living PodcastThe Impact of Liminality on Individuals and SocietyCriticism of Christian Supremacy and Institutional ChristianityThe Manipulative Nature of High-Control Religious EnvironmentsRejecting Religious Jargon and Embracing Human UniversalsDealing with High-Control IndividualsConclusion and Invitation to Future Conversations
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 3min
69: Justin Scoggins: Inking Christ: Tattoos as Religious Art
Take AwaysMeeting tangible needs in the community is an important expression of faith.Faith is a journey of growth and evolving perspectives.Extending grace and love to others is a central aspect of the Christian faith.The stigma of tattoos in the Christian context can be challenged and reevaluated.Personal expressions of art, such as tattoos, can be a way to build relationships and express one's faith. The cultural acceptance of tattoos in the church is influenced by historical and societal factors, such as the sexual revolution and the Reformation.Art, including tattoos, can be a powerful tool for communicating the gospel and bridging the gap between the sacred and the secular.God can be found in secular spaces, and Christians should strive to embrace and engage with the world around them.The church should value and appreciate creativity and the arts as a means of expressing and experiencing God's presence.ChaptersIntroduction and BackgroundFrom Atheism to FaithThe Evolution of FaithThe Love for TattoosChallenging Stigmas and Expressing FaithBridging the Gap: Art and the GospelGod in Secular Spaces: Embracing the WorldThe Importance of Creativity in the ChurchLinks:Buy the book on July 30th: https://shorturl.at/W65VZ
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jul 3, 2024 • 58min
68: Eric Nevins: Dark Night of the Vocational Soul
Highlights:Embrace the ongoing process of spiritual growth and recognize that there is no arrival point.Question expectations that God will make everything smooth sailing and happy.Allow God the freedom to be creative in how He works in your life and the lives of others.Recognize the tension between the objective and subjective experiences of God and embrace both.Don't compare your spiritual journey to others, as each person's experience is unique. Experiencing God cannot be forced or limited to specific activities; it requires openness and a release of expectations.The lack of space for doubt and lament in Christian worship songs, sermons, and church spaces can hinder authentic expression and growth.Knowing the stories of God's people throughout history, including their struggles and questions, can provide comfort and perspective in times of doubt and anger.A theology that acknowledges suffering and difficult questions is essential for a mature and authentic faith.Faith is a fluid journey, and it may not fit neatly into a specific label or category. The focus should be on living out the kingdom of God in everyday life.Chapters:Introduction and Setting the ToneEric's Journey to DenverQuestioning Expectations and God's ProvisionLooking Back and Adjusting TheologyGrowing Up in a Christian FamilyExploring Different TheologiesSeeking Theological EducationDiscovering Spiritual FormationShifting Understanding of GodThe Objective and Subjective Experiences of GodExperiencing God and Releasing ExpectationsThe Challenge of Prayer and Expressing AngerThe Lack of Space for Doubt and Lament in Christian CommunityKnowing the Stories of God's PeopleThe Need for a Theology of SufferingThe Fluidity of Faith and the Search for AuthenticityLiving Out the Kingdom of GodLinks:Find Eric here: https://www.ericnevins.com/Listen to Halfway There here: https://shorturl.at/YsnzxWatch this Interview here: https://youtu.be/gHrp_37JB8I
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 20min
67: Keith Giles: Decoding the Gospel of Thomas
InsightsThe Gospel of Thomas is a collection of the sayings of Jesus and does not have a narrative like the other Gospels.The Gospel of Thomas was suppressed by early church leaders, particularly those who opposed the Valentinians.The Gospel of Thomas was found in 1945 in a clay jar buried in the desert.Scholars have dated the Gospel of Thomas to the early second century and believe it may have served as a Q document.The teachings in the Gospel of Thomas emphasize the oneness and connection with God and challenge hierarchical structures in the early church. The early Christian church adopted hierarchical, patriarchal, and uniform beliefs and practices after the Roman Empire adopted Christianity as its national religion.The Gospel of Thomas offers wisdom for steering the church towards a more egalitarian and community-based structure.Realizing our connection with God and one another is essential for loving and caring for others.The early church practiced secret teachings, and the shift towards hierarchical structures was a departure from the teachings of Jesus and Paul.ChaptersIntroduction and Keith Giles' PodcastsDiscovering the Gospel of ThomasDating the Gospel of Thomas and its Relationship to the Q DocumentThe Discovery of the Gospel of ThomasKeith Giles' Interest in the Gospel of ThomasHierarchy, Patriarchy, and Uniformity in the Early Christian ChurchThe Gospel of Thomas: Wisdom for a More Egalitarian ChurchRealizing Our Connection: The Key to Loving and Caring for OthersThe Shift from Secret Teachings to Hierarchical StructuresLinks:Buy the Book Here: https://shorturl.at/JG3b0 Read the Blog here: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/keithgiles/
SponsorsQuoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off) Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise) ConnectFind us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminallivingFollow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0owFollow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 20min
66: Steve Harper: Christian Nationalism Isn't Christian
The importance of stripping away layers of interpretation to reveal the true essence of Christ.The challenges of countering Christian nationalism and the significance of speaking the truth in love.The concept of God as a being and the implications of this understanding.The connection between spiritual formation and the inspiration behind the book 'Jesus Unpainted.' The nature of God is explored through the lens of personal relationship and the concept of 'I thou' rather than 'I it'.Faith is validated through personal relationship with God, not just by accepting principles or statements of faith.The LGBTQ community faces challenges within religious institutions, often experiencing a lack of genuine love and acceptance despite the language of inclusion.Inclusive churches should not only welcome but also empower and involve all individuals, ensuring accessibility for everyone in the community.Engaging with the local community and serving the parish is essential for meaningful church impact and relevance in the present age.A gentle leader embodies self-care, community counsel, humility, and a commitment to serving the needs of others.The concept of 'Little Lights' and 'Oboedire' provide platforms for daily meditation and deeper engagement with the author's writings and thoughts.Links:Connect to his Blog here: https://oboedire.wordpress.com/Connect on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/little.lights.2024Find books on Amazon here: https://shorturl.at/lGF9M Chapters:Introduction and Retirement ReflectionsThe Quilt and Its StoryStripping Away Layers of InterpretationCountering Christian NationalismUnderstanding God as a BeingExploring the Nature of God and FaithChallenges Faced by the LGBTQ Community in Religious InstitutionsThe Role of Inclusive and Accessible ChurchesEngaging with the Local Community and Serving the ParishQualities of a Gentle LeaderConnecting with 'Little Lights' and 'Oboedire'
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Jun 12, 2024 • 57min
65: Thomas Jay Oord: On Trial for Heresy
Advocacy for LGBTQ+ inclusion within the Church of the Nazarene is a complex and challenging endeavor, involving theological, social, and personal dimensions.The conversation sheds light on the tensions and complexities within the church and society regarding LGBTQ+ issues, highlighting the need for thoughtful dialogue and understanding.Thomas Jay Oord's journey of advocacy and the challenges he faces within his denomination provide insight into the evolving landscape of Christianity and the ongoing pursuit of inclusivity and social justice. The evolving understanding of LGBTQ+ issues has led to a shift in language and terminology, reflecting a broader and more inclusive perspective.Personal experiences, including interactions with LGBTQ+ individuals, have played a significant role in shaping perspectives and fostering empathy and understanding.The intersection of faith, science, and love is a complex and evolving space, with implications for theological discourse and social justice.The challenges faced by the Church of Nazarene reflect broader issues within denominations, including the retention of youth and the impact of LGBTQ+ inclusivity on membership and identity.Thomas Jay Oord's commitment to love, justice, and the pursuit of a more inclusive and empathetic faith community is evident throughout the conversation.Buy his book here: https://shorturl.at/xYX5OCheck out his author page here: https://shorturl.at/1uDO4Watch his YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbWoc_HfnC0Chapters:Denominational Charges and ConsequencesBiblical Interpretation and AestheticsThe Desire for Certainty and AuthorityEvolving Language and Understanding of LGBTQ+ IssuesPersonal Experiences and EmpathyIntersection of Faith, Science, and LoveThe Question of Sin and Healthy BehaviorLove, Listening, and Humanizing the IssueChallenges Faced by DenominationsImpact on Youth Retention and Future of Denominations
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