Liminal Living

Dr. Thomas J Rundel
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Jun 24, 2025 • 6min

124a: Fault and Responsibility: Song Only

To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 124. 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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Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 2min

123: Keith Giles: Erasing Mary from the Text

takeawaysKeith Giles has written multiple books, including a series on quantum gospels.The Gospel of Mary is a fragmentary text with significant insights.Mary Magdalene is likely the central figure in the Gospel of Mary.The text emphasizes the idea of Christ within all individuals.There were multiple early Christian communities with differing beliefs.The Gospel of Mary aligns with the egalitarian views of the Valentinians.The text suggests a direct connection to God without mediators.The concept of the 'child of humanity' is central to the Gospel's message.The Gospel of Mary challenges traditional patriarchal views of God.Understanding the Gospel of Mary could transform modern Christianity. Evangelicalism often defines itself by its enemies.The pendulum of faith can swing too far towards isolation.Community is essential for spiritual growth and understanding.The Gospel of Mary presents radical ideas about sin and forgiveness.The emphasis on sin can be detrimental to spiritual health.Morality should stem from love and connection to others.Political events can challenge our spiritual beliefs.Mary Magdalene's role has been historically marginalized.The Gospel of Mary lacks references from early church writers.The Quantum Gospel of Mary combines multiple texts for deeper insights.Links:Book: https://tinyurl.com/ck8d2et4 Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/KeithGiles Blog: 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.
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Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 9min

122: Cynthia Beach: Disillusionment with Christian Leaders

Cynthia Beach has a deep connection to Castle Rock, Northern Ireland, which inspires her writing.Her upbringing in a wealthy family contrasted with her mother's devout spirituality.Disillusionment with Christian institutions shaped her understanding of faith.Frederick Douglass's writings provided a framework for navigating faith amidst disillusionment.Operational faith often leads to a focus on exceptionalism rather than true spirituality.The persona adopted by church leaders can create a divide between authenticity and performance.Success in ministry can come with the pressure to conform to certain personas.Disillusionment can be a sign of growth and clarity in one's faith journey.The paradox of being both depraved and glorious is a central theme in understanding faith.Cynthia emphasizes the importance of seeing things clearly in one's spiritual journey. The vocabulary around hiding failures often stems from a desire to protect good work.Exceptionalism often comes at the expense of marginalized groups.Suffering can lead to humility and authenticity in leadership.Listening to others is crucial for crafting community narratives.Hope can be found in personal experiences and divine tenderness.Creativity should be prioritized and not relegated to the bottom of our lists.Idle brain time is beneficial for creativity and problem-solving.The church is facing challenges that may lead to a post-Christian society.Localizing actions can help combat feelings of hopelessness.The desire for exceptionalism can hinder genuine connection and growth.Links:Web: https://www.cynthiabeach.com/ Book: https://www.ivpress.com/the-surface-of-water 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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Jun 4, 2025 • 1h 9min

121: Catherine Cowell: Finding God's Feminine Side

Catherine experienced her faith journey in small, incremental shifts.Questioning beliefs can lead to deeper understanding and growth.Maturity in faith involves embracing uncertainty and mystery.The divine can be understood through both masculine and feminine imagery.Catherine's experiences with church communities shaped her views on faith.The journey of questioning can be seen as an invitation to grow.Feminine imagery for God exists in scripture but is often overlooked.Cultural norms have historically marginalized feminine perspectives in faith.The church's patriarchal structure influences perceptions of God.Reclaiming feminine imagery can enrich spiritual experiences. Gender roles in faith are often seen as divinely designed.Both men and women are created in God's image.The interpretation of scripture is influenced by human perspectives.Cognitive dissonance is prevalent in faith communities.Inerrancy of scripture can reflect patriarchal biases.Jesus elevated women in his teachings and actions.The divine feminine can unlock new spiritual insights.Historical context is crucial for understanding biblical texts.Faith communities often struggle with contradictory beliefs.A feminine perspective of God can provide healing for those with father wounds.Links: Book: https://tinyurl.com/k9c472uf Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/loved-called-gifted/id1627936653 Web: https://catherine-cowell.medium.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.
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May 28, 2025 • 59min

120: Lauren Cibene: Navigating Faith, Trauma, and Healing in India

takeawaysLauren's required reading is 'Life of Pi' for its depth.'Grapes of Wrath' illustrates systemic evil in society.Growing up in a fundamentalist bubble shaped her faith.Trauma led to a painful deconstruction of her beliefs.Emotional prosperity gospel can distort faith expectations.Therapy was a crucial step in her healing process.Traveling to India was a leap of faith for her.Cultural immersion helped her rebuild trust.Trusting oneself is a vital part of recovery.Vulnerability is essential for self-acceptance. Cultural connections can lead to profound moments of acceptance.Alienation in evangelicalism can hinder personal healing.Family dynamics often influence our ability to confront pain.Transformative experiences can occur in mundane settings.Liminal spaces encourage open-handed living and receptivity.Reincarnation offers a different perspective on death and rebirth.Travel fosters humility and a sense of wonder.Navigating relationships requires understanding and compassion.Certainty can be found in embracing uncertainty.Deconstruction is a unique journey that requires patience and self-affirmation.Chapters:Introduction and Warm WelcomeLiterary Influences and Required ReadingFaith Foundations and DeconstructionTrauma and the Crisis of FaithTherapy and the Journey to HealingTraveling to India: A Leap of FaithCultural Immersion and Trust BuildingRebuilding Trust in OneselfEmbracing Vulnerability and Self-AcceptanceCultural Connections and AcceptanceThe Alienation of Self in EvangelicalismThe Impact of Family and Community on HealingTransformative Moments in Mundane SpacesLiminal Spaces and Open-Handed LivingReincarnation and Cycles of LifeTraveling and HumilityNavigating Relationships Through ChangeFinding Certainty in UncertaintyEmbracing the Journey of DeconstructionLinks:Website: https://laurencibene.com/Substack: https://laurencibene.substack.com/?ref=websiteBook: Tiger in a Lifeboat 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 21, 2025 • 1h 11min

119: Michael Gungor: Holy Integration: Music, the Sacred, and the Self

takeawaysBach's music exemplifies a pure expression of creativity.Creativity flows from a dance between internal and external influences.Individuality is a unique expression of the universal flow.Consciousness transcends the boundaries of ego and identity.The sacred can be found in everyday moments and experiences.Rituals can help us recognize the sacred in our lives.Creativity requires both chaos and order to flourish.The ego can hinder creativity by imposing limitations.Being present is essential to experiencing the sacred.Every moment is an opportunity to find the sacred. Creativity involves a balance between chaos and order.Both feminine and masculine energies are essential in artistic expression.Shame in music can be addressed through honest, first-person narratives.Theological language can perpetuate shame if not handled carefully.Integration of different parts of oneself leads to a more holistic identity.Non-dual perspectives can help bridge gaps in understanding spirituality.The question of identity is central to personal growth and understanding.Every part of us has a purpose, even those that seem negative.Transcending old beliefs requires including them in our new understanding.The essence of spirituality is recognizing our shared humanity.ChaptersIntroduction and Setting the SceneThe Genius of Bach and Creative FlowThe Dance of Individuality and EgoConsciousness and the Nature of RealityDefining the Sacred in Everyday LifeCreativity: Balancing Chaos and OrderThe Dance of Creativity: Balancing Chaos and OrderNavigating Shame in Music and TheologyIntegrating Parts: The Journey of Self-DiscoveryThe Question of Identity: Who Am I?LinksMusic: Gungor MusicPodcast: The Liturgist Podcast 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 14, 2025 • 56min

118: Andy Root: Evangelism in an Age of Despair

takeawaysAndrew Root feels most comfortable surrounded by his books.The connection between humans and dogs is mystical and profound.Andrew's childhood experiences with grief shaped his faith.Lutheranism has a unique cultural context in the Midwest.Evangelism should focus on consolation rather than mere conversion.The church's role is to walk with people in their sorrow.Modern society struggles with deep feelings of loneliness.Evangelism is often misunderstood as a marketing strategy.Andrew's experiences highlight the importance of community support.The conversation emphasizes the need for a deeper understanding of faith. Rituals are essential for happiness in modern life.Evangelism should not be seen as lifestyle marketing.Luther's theology emphasizes God's presence in suffering.Ministry of consolation is vital in addressing grief.Suffering is a universal human experience.Pilgrimage invites people to journey together in faith.Joy and celebration are crucial in community life.Happiness should not be the ultimate goal.True contentment comes from connection with God.Acknowledging grief allows for genuine joy.Chapters:Welcome and Introduction to the PodcastThe Mystical Connection with DogsLife in a Monastic CellGrowing Up in LutheranismCognitive Dissonance in FaithRedefining Evangelism in Modern TimesThe Role of Consolation in EvangelismThe Role of Ritual in Modern LifeEvangelism vs. Lifestyle MarketingLuther's Theology of the CrossMinistry of ConsolationThe Nature of Suffering and GriefPilgrimage as a Spiritual JourneyJoy and Celebration in CommunityLinksWeb page: https://www.andrewroot.org/about/Book: Evangelism in an Age of DespairPodcast: When Church Stops Working 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 7, 2025 • 37min

117: Nolan Rundel: The Art of Meaning: Blending Love, Logic, and Liminal Spaces

Take AwaysLife experiences broaden your understanding of meaning.Family significantly impacts one's perspective on life.Cultural and community influences shape personal values.Art and beauty provide a deeper understanding of existence.Navigating societal expectations can be challenging.Authenticity is crucial in personal and professional spaces.External forces can guide life in unexpected ways.Finding the right questions is more important than answers.You must integrate past experiences into your current self.Personal growth involves transcending and including past beliefs.ChaptersIntroduction and BackgroundJourney to Becoming a PastorExploring Life's MeaningThe Impact of Family on MeaningEvolving Perspectives on LifeCultural Influences on MeaningWork and Community's Role in Life's MeaningThe Role of Love and External FactorsThe Influence of External Forces on LifeThe Role of Art and Beauty in Understanding LifeNavigating Societal Norms and Personal AuthenticityFinding Meaning Through the Right Questions 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 30, 2025 • 1h 2min

116: Keith Giles: Reading Romans Right, an Unfundamentalist View

Keith Giles has written extensively on biblical topics, including the Book of Romans.The collaborative project with Matthew de Stefano was born out of a shared concern about the misinterpretation of Romans.Romans is often misused to justify negative ideologies, which the authors aim to correct.Understanding the structure of Paul's arguments is crucial for accurate interpretation of Romans.The technique of prosopopeia is used by Paul to present opposing viewpoints in his arguments.Many Bible teachers overlook the dual voices present in Romans, leading to misinterpretation.The authors aim to present a more compassionate and loving interpretation of Paul's teachings.Unity in the church does not require agreement on all issues, according to Paul's teachings.The clobber passages in Romans are often taken out of context and misapplied.Paul's emphasis on love and grace is a central theme that is often neglected in traditional interpretations. Romans chapter 1 addresses pagan idol worship, not modern homosexuality.Co-writing can be a rewarding experience with minimal conflict.Future projects may include Galatians and Hebrews.Engaging with critics is essential for theological dialogue.Romans 13 should be understood in the context of love and submission, not blind allegiance.Applying Paul's teachings today requires a focus on individual relationships.Misinterpretations of Romans 7 can lead to unhealthy shame and guilt.Worship culture often emphasizes a negative self-image.Theological discussions should encourage grace and understanding.The journey of unlearning harmful theological patterns is ongoing.Links:Blog: Keith Giles PatheosBook: Reading Romans RightPod: Second Cup with Keith 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 23, 2025 • 1h 6min

115: Kevin Sweeney: A Cosmic Christ Meets a Concrete Jesus

Show Outline:Podcast Reflections & GrowthTom’s journey from uncertainty to confidence in hosting.Lessons from awkward interviews and maintaining consistency.Peter Rollins & ParablesKevin’s college story using Rollins’ parable of the mystic, evangelical, and fundamentalist.The role of mysticism in challenging dogma.Kevin’s New Book: Cosmic Christ and Concrete JesusOrigins: Re-examining faith post-church closure and vocational shifts.Defining the “Cosmic Christ” (universal divine presence) vs. “Concrete Jesus” (liberation-focused activism).Bridging mysticism and social justice.Deconstruction & EmbodimentFaith as direct experience vs. intellectual belief.The danger of “spiritual insulation” and clichés.Black Prophetic TraditionContrasting the “white Jesus” of power with the radical, marginalized Jesus.Liberation theology’s influence on Kevin’s work.Personal & Vocational ShiftsKevin’s transition from pastoring to hospice chaplaincy.Letting go of “next things” to embrace the present.Links:Web: https://www.kevinsweeneynow.com/ Pod: The Church Needs TherapyBook: Cosmic Christ Concrete Jesus 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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