Liminal Living

Dr. Thomas J Rundel
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Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 26min

64: Peter Rollins: Is God Dead? A Peek Into Radical Theology

Key Take Aways:Embrace the contradictions and dividedness that are inherent in being human.Loss and death are fundamental aspects of existence that shape our experiences.Grief should be acknowledged and processed as a natural part of life.The death of God and the tearing of the temple curtain challenge the idea of liminality as a space where the finite and infinite meet. Certain objects capture a sense of transcendence and the eternal within them, rather than behind them.Christianity is radical in its belief in the death of God and the alienation within the divine.Hope is the driving force that motivates us to work for something better in the present moment.A better understanding of God in the modern world embraces self-division and ontological unknowing.Living in the present moment and embracing self-division can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic experience of life.Chapters:-Introduction and Espresso-The Northern Ireland Peace Process-The Apocalyptic Perspective and Psychoanalysis-The Redemptive Power of Embracing Loss and Death-Critiquing the Notion of Liminality-The Eternal Within Objects-The Role of Hope and the Present Moment-Embracing Self-Division and Ontological UnknowingLinks:Find Peter on the Web: https://peterrollins.com/ Find Peter on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCweF6BScvFnbsymouI-znDA Find Peter's Books on Amazon: https://rb.gy/yu7zje 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.
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May 29, 2024 • 54min

63: Grace Ji-Sun Kim: When God Became White

Buy the book: https://www.ivpress.com/when-god-became-whiteListen to the pod: https://www.christiancentury.org/podcast/madangRead her Blog: https://gracejisunkim.wordpress.com/Subscribe Substack: https://gracek.substack.com/ Names hold deep significance in Korean culture, connecting individuals to their family and generations.Understanding race as a social construct is essential in dismantling racism.Whitewashing biblical stories perpetuates whiteness and reinforces white supremacy.Theological creedal development should be reexamined to ensure it does not reinforce whiteness.Solidarity and hope are necessary in the fight against racism and the decolonization of the Christian faith. 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.
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May 22, 2024 • 58min

62: Ben Katt: The Hero's Journey to Wholeness

Check out Ben's Website here: https://www.benjaminkatt.com/ Grab Ben's Book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250910447?tag=macmillan-20Leaving the familiar and falling into the unknown are two distinct stages of a transformative journey. Leaving the familiar involves recognizing the need for change and making a decisive break from the past, while falling into the unknown is the disorienting and challenging period of transition.Returning home after a transformative journey can be difficult, as one may no longer fit into the social identity or conformity of their previous community. It may require setting new boundaries, rearranging relationships, and finding new soul friends who understand and support the journey.Practices such as meditation, journaling, and spending time in nature can help center oneself and maintain a sense of stillness and internal reference amidst change. These practices can also foster self-discovery and a deeper connection with one's own soul and purpose.The hero's journey, as seen in literature and movies, reflects the universal pattern of leaving the familiar, falling into the unknown, and returning home transformed. This journey is about discovering the core essential self and aligning with the flow of one's own life.Ben Katt is a meditation teacher, hospice chaplain, and coach. He is the author of THE WAY HOME: Discovering the Hero’s Journey to Wholeness at Midlife. Ben teaches meditation in prisons and facilitates wellbeing experiences for companies and organizations. He is a certified advanced meditation teacher, holds a Master of Divinity degree, and is a former ordained minister. He lives in Milwaukee, WI with his wife and three children. 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.
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May 15, 2024 • 1h 23min

61: Daniel Wolpert: Looking Inward, Living Outward

You can buy the book here: https://upperroombooks.com/book/looking-inward-living-outward/You can connect with Daniel here: https://www.facebook.com/daniel.wolpert.1Contemplation frees individuals from habits and patterns that cause suffering and promotes compassion and care.Contemplation is not just an individual practice, but also a communal one.Contemplative psychology explores the concept of the human person as a bundle of habits and activities that create our sense of self and the world.Contemplation can dissolve ego habits and projections, leading to more humane and loving relationships.The integration of contemplation and action is essential for social transformation. The ego constructs a sense of self based on our sensory input, leading to patterns of confirmation bias and repetitive behavior.Contemplation allows the mind to slow down and see the construction process of the ego, leading to a more open and expansive sense of self.Powerful presence is not about charisma or ego-driven leadership, but about being fully present and caring for others without personal agendas.Our society worships money and wealth, often distorting or ignoring teachings on generosity and economic justice.Engaging in the spiritual life can bring about personal and societal transformation, even in the face of suffering and uncertainty.Hope is not about clinging to a specific outcome, but about letting go of ego-driven expectations and trusting in the power of love and creativity. 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.
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May 8, 2024 • 1h 1min

60: Brian McLaren: Life After Doom

You can preorder the book here: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250893277/life-after-doom You can find Brian's work here: https://brianmclaren.net/ IntroductionThe Conflict Between Conservative Faith and Love for NatureFacing a New SituationThe Impact of Climate Change and Rising DepressionThe Importance of Spiritual HelpThe Power of Naming GriefThe Complicated Nature of HopeSuperficial Hope vs. Deeper HopeRethinking Economic ParadigmsLiving in Harmony with NatureCreating Safe Landings and Imagining a Sustainable FutureQuestioning History: European Intellectuals and Atrocities of WarThe Role of RepentanceFinding New Ways of Being and Centers of GravityRecognizing and Dismantling Abusive Power StructuresExpressing Gratitude and Building Connections 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.
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May 1, 2024 • 1h 8min

59: Zach Lambert: A Holistic Inclusive Bible Interpretation

"Have you ever had a difficult time reading Paul’s Epistles? Ever felt like your questions were not part of the preapproved rhetoric of the groupthink? Zach felt the same way growing up in the Southern Baptist Church and lived at the edges of inclusion, fading further away from his faith. And then he read the Gospels and wondered why his church was not talking about this Jesus guy at all. Today’s conversation is about progressive Christianity and the inclusivity of the early church. We discuss the shift from a way of living and embodying the teachings of Jesus to an emphasis on intellectual agreement with a set of doctrines. We also explore the misinterpretation of Paul's letters and the need to understand them in their historical and cultural context. Zach shares his personal journey from growing up in a conservative evangelical church to finding a radical encounter with Jesus and reconstructing his faith. We highlight the importance of engaging with the life and teachings of Jesus and the need to move away from an insulated subculture of information. The conversation explores the historical link between evangelicalism and fundamentalism, highlighting how evangelicalism has always been fundamentalism with a new coat of paint. It discusses the rise of a nationalistic, state church in the United States and the need for a coalition of shared value churches that embody the work and way of Jesus. The conversation also delves into the formation and purpose of the Post-Evangelical Collective, a non-profit organization that aims to support and resource churches in the post-evangelical movement. The upcoming book by Zach W. Lambert focuses on providing a holistic understanding of Bible interpretation and offers healthier lenses for engaging with scripture.Zach is the Lead Pastor and founder of Restore, a church that locks arms with the community to help bring restoration to people and neighborhoods in our city and around the world. They say, “We don’t have everything figured out, but we are on a journey of restoration through Jesus who loves people without prejudice or qualification. Restore is a place where you can be yourself, ask questions, and won’t be pressured to conform to any stereotype.” He is a native Austinite, and holds a Bachelors of Science in Communication and a Masters of Theology. Zach is also the co-founder of the Post Evangelical Collective--a group of pastors, artists, and leaders committed to full inclusion, holistic justice, deep and wide formation, a gracious posture, and the Way of Jesus. He has just signed a book contract with Brazos Press to author a book dedicated to help people wounded by harsh and legalistic church leaders rediscover the goodness and life-giving power of the Christian story.You can connect with Zach’s church here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdqbo_vHkBQ7VWGh9o8TaWQ You can connect with the Post Evangelicals here: www.PostEvangelicalCollective.orgAll Music for this episode is provided by Axeltree 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.
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Apr 24, 2024 • 53min

58: Tom Rundel: Arriving at 95% Certainty is Good Enough

"Have you ever wondered how much of what you believe to be true is actually influenced by the quirks of your own mind? In this solo episode of the Liminal Living podcast, we delve into the fascinating realm of cognitive biases and their impact on our perception of reality. We use Brian McLaren’s list of 13 cognitive biases that cloud our judgment, revealing how they shape our understanding of truth and certainty. Through a philosophical lens, we examine the notion of absolute certainty, suggesting that acknowledging the presence of biases allows us to embrace uncertainty with an open hand.The path to truth lies not in clinging to a rigid sense of certainty, but rather in maintaining a humble acknowledgment of our own limitations. Truth can be best grasped in a mindset where being 95% sure of something allows room for the remaining 5% of uncertainty. Embracing this openness enables us to navigate the complexities of truth with greater clarity and humility. Ultimately, we hope this is a compelling invitation for you to examine your own biases and embrace a more nuanced understanding of reality. Because, the journey towards truth begins with an open hand.You can find Brian McLaren’s podcast on baises here: https://cac.org/podcasts/why-cant-we-see/All Music for this episode is provided by Axeltree 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.
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Apr 17, 2024 • 1h 14min

57: Chad Bahl: To Hell with Eternal Conscious Torment

"Have you ever always hated the doctrine of eternal conscious torment but felt like it was too central to the faith to discard? Chad is the guy to talk to. Today we deconstruct the theology of ECT, discuss its origins, its evolution, and its future home in the proverbial lake of fire. We also discuss open and relational theology, evangelicalism, liminality, contemplation, and more views of the afterlife. It was an invigorating conversation that let me see that my academic mind can still come out and play every once in a while.Chad Bahl is a DThM candidate at Northwind Theological Seminary, studying under Dr Thomas Jay Oord, where he specializes in the study of Open and Relational Theology. He also has hosted a podcast series: Deconstructing Hell. And is the author of God Unbound: An Evangelical Reconsiders Tradition in Search of Truth, author/editor of Deconstructing Hell: Open and Relational Responses to the Doctrine of Eternal Conscious Torment, and author of the upcoming Mornings with Schleirmacher.You can order Chad’s books here: https://rb.gy/kvy57bYou can connect to Chad’s Work here: https://www.facebook.com/chad.bahl 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.
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Apr 11, 2024 • 1h 40min

56: Ally Henny: I Won't Shut Up

"Have you ever wondered how one finds their voice in a world that often seeks to silence them? Today, we're diving deep into that question with author and advocate-minister Ally Henny, as we explore her journey of resilience, faith, and empowerment. Ally is the brilliant mind behind "I Won't Shut Up: Finding Your Voice When the World Tries to Silence You," a wonderful work that delves into the complexities of navigating societal pressures and finding one's voice amidst adversity. As the Vice President of The Witness: A Black Christian Collective, Ally is dedicated to empowering Black Christians toward liberation from racism, offering profound insights into the intersection of faith and social justice. Throughout our conversation, we'll journey through Ally's experiences and perspectives, exploring the differences of black and white Christian culture in this country, the effect it has on politics, economics, society, and religion. Also, Ally offers invaluable insights into the tensions of Black freedom and the complexities of navigating racial dynamics within church institutional spaces. So, grab a cup of something caffeinated if your nervous system allows, and settle in and prepare to be enriched by the wisdom and passion of Ally Henny. You can order Ally’s book here: rb.gy/3897bmYou can connect to Ally’s Work here: allyhenny.com/ Time Stamps for the episode:02:59 Water damage sucks05:50 Soil of Rural Missouri10:52 Black Baptist upbringing16:33 Black liturgy23:00 Black politics28:33 White church culture shock35:13 Barak Obama is not the anti-christ40:18 My mama’s struggles47:25 A constellation of harms55:06 Trauma constellations and their narratives1:01:59 White individualism1:08:08 The mythology of meritocracy1:15:22 Once you see how the sausage is made…1:21:21 Civilized?1:28:07 Long obedience in the same direction All Music for this episode is provided by Axeltree 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.
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Apr 3, 2024 • 1h 17min

55: Justin Lee: Coming out as Gay in the Southern Baptist Church

Have you ever been made the “prayer request” of a community because your story didn’t match the triumphal testimony narrative? Justin grew up in the Southern Baptist Church as a conservative labeled by his high school peers as “God boy.” He was handing out tracts, evangelizing, and really good at obeying purity culture rules when it came to women. Then he realized that he was gay. He went on a long journey of wrestling with faith and identity, and we talk about his story today. For over 25 years, Justin Lee has been a leading voice in navigating contentious issues with depth and empathy. As the author of "Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate with People You Disagree With—and Maybe Even Change the World," his work has been adopted as a college textbook, guiding students through areas of disagreement. Beginning his journey in the 90s as a spokesperson for Bridges Across the Divide, Justin later founded a nonprofit dedicated to fostering dialogue within Christian communities on LGBTQ issues, gaining international recognition for his efforts. His bestselling book, "Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate," has solidified his reputation as a bridge-builder between progressives and conservatives. Justin's influence extends beyond his writing, as a co-host of three podcasts and a sought-after speaker featured in global media outlets. Now, he focuses on empowering individuals to apply strategic dialogue principles to diverse causes, maintaining a vibrant online presence through his YouTube channel and website at GeekyJustin.com. You can preorder Justin’s book here: https://geekyjustin.com/books/torn-v2/ You can connect to Justin’s YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/geekyjustin Time Stamps for the episode: 02:48 Boardgame Geekdom 08:04 Board games are like cosplay 11:54 Growing up Baptist 17:13 Coming out into a culture war 23:49 Slow realization, “I am gay.” 30:10 Making peace with new identity 35:03 Accepting that I can’t become straight 41:34 the danger of failed testimony to group narrative 48:43 Wrestling with the clobber passages 55:26 Asking the gay community to help with our theology 1:00:43 weaponizing truth claims 1:05:46 teaching the beginners 1:09:17 dialogue with those ideologically opposed to you All Music for this episode is provided by Axeltree 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.

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