Compass Podcast: Finding the spirituality in the day-to-day

Compass Podcast host Ryan Dunn walks us through Lectio Divina—meaning “divine reading”—an ancient contemplative practice that goes beyond simply reading sacred texts. Together, we’ll learn how to gently engage with scripture, reflect on what stands out to us, and respond through prayer and contemplation. And it’s not just about reading; we’ll discover how this approach … Continue reading"[176] A practice to listen from the heart"

Reverend Roger Ross unpacks what it means to move from being a “kinda Christian” to a committed disciple. Through this episode of Compass, we explore the difference between just being a church member and living as a true follower of Jesus, and learn practical steps to deepen your spiritual journey, especially when you hit those … Continue reading"[175] Moving beyond spiritual neutral with Roger Ross"

On this episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday, host Ryan Dunn sits down with Tyler Sit, pastor of New City Church in Minneapolis, to explore how faith communities navigate the complexities of politics, crisis, and community care. Set against the backdrop of heightened ICE activity and community unrest in Minneapolis, Tyler Sit shares … Continue reading"[174] Spirituality on the street with Rev. Tyler Sit"

Is sharing your faith intimidating? Does the word “evangelism” bring up more anxiety than hope? Compass dives into the big “E” word—evangelism. Together with Reverend Dr. Stephanie Moore Hand, conference evangelist for the Western North Carolina Conference of the United Methodist Church, we challenge and expand our ideas of what it means to share faith. … Continue reading"[173] Breaking the evangelism stereotype"

We’re exploring the spiritual implications of Artificial Intelligence with pastor and author Reverend Nathan Webb. Nathan is the founding pastor of Checkpoint Church, a digital-first church aimed at connecting with individuals who identify as nerds, geeks, and gamers. Through the conversation, they explore the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and spirituality, discussing how AI can … Continue reading"[172] AI, ethics and the spiritual journey"

What does it really look like to find spiritual vitality and hope in the hardest of places? Rev. Jabe Largen opens up about his journey through addiction, tragedy, and healing in the heart of Appalachia. We explored how radical honesty and vulnerability can transform not just our personal faith but entire communities. Jabe’s story is … Continue reading"[171] Wrestling with suffering and grace"

This Christmas season, let’s be real—distraction and busyness can drain our joy. But the true gift isn’t in doing more; it’s about being more present. Host Rev. Ryan Dunn shares how simple spiritual practices—like focused breathing, one-word prayers, and sacred noticing—can interrupt the stress loop and reconnect us with what matters: ourselves, others, and the … Continue reading"[170] A Christmas full of presence!"

What makes issues like immigration, equity, inclusion, and societal violence spiritual matters—not just political ones? In this episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday, host Ryan Dunn sits down with Bishop Julius Trimble, General Secretary of the United Methodist Church’s General Board of Church and Society, to explore the vibrant connection between justice work … Continue reading"[169] Why justice, equity and inclusion are spiritual, not just political"

After 8 years, we’re finally do a listener-questions episode on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, questioning your relationship with church, or simply curious about how faith fits into our polarized world, this candid, heartfelt episode is for you. Host Ryan Dunn opens up about the podcast’s origins, the challenges … Continue reading"[168] Listener questions, curiosity and community"

Host Ryan Dunn guides us through a timely and deeply practical exploration of how contemplative spiritual practices can become acts of resistance against the overwhelm and exhaustion so many of us face today. In this episode, we dive into the ways our attention is commodified—by social media, politics, and nonstop demands—and how practices like gratitude … Continue reading"[167] Contemplation is resistance"

What happens when prayer meets practical action? In this compelling episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday, host Ryan Dunn sits down with Reverend Ben Roberts, Director of Social Justice Ministries at Foundry United Methodist Church in Washington, D.C. Together, they explore how faith, justice, and tangible service intersect on city streets—especially in the … Continue reading"[166] How Advocacy Becomes Ministry with Rev. Ben Roberts"

Discovering Better Ways to Read the Bible with Zachary Lambert on Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday. In this episode, Zach Lambert and host Ryan Dunn explore how many of us have been handed rigid, harmful ways to interpret the Bible—and how moving toward healthier, life-giving lenses can transform both our understanding of scripture and … Continue reading"[165] Transforming your experience with the Bible with Zach Lambert"

Unpacking faith, masculinity, and hope with Rev. Angela Denker on Compass 164: Disciples of White Jesus. Dive into a candid conversation exploring how our images of Jesus, shaped by culture and media, influence everyday faith, identity, and relationships. Discover practical wisdom for nurturing authentic spirituality at home, at church, and in daily life — plus … Continue reading"[164] Moving beyond White-Guy Jesus with Angela Denker"

Are your phone habits feeding your soul or draining your spirit? Host Ryan Dunn reimagines “screen time” as “soul time” in this insightful episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday. Ryan introduces practical and inspiring apps designed to support your spiritual journey—transforming everyday moments into opportunities for sacred reflection, mindful prayer, and spiritual renewal. … Continue reading"[163] Turning screen time into soul time"

What does it mean to live out faith in real, tangible ways? In this moving episode, Compass host Ryan Dunn sits down with Rev. Ingrid McIntyre—a United Methodist pastor and seasoned community organizer based in Nashville, Tennessee—to explore activism, justice, and the spiritual fuel that sustains hope in challenging times. Ingrid shares her journey from … Continue reading"[162] Championing Justice and Hope with Ingrid McIntyre"

What happens when your questions about faith lead you into the world of YouTube? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Reverend Matt Patrick—Oklahoma pastor, theologian, and creator of the Connexionalist YouTube channel—as we explore how digital spaces are reshaping spiritual discovery. Matt shares his journey from campus ministry to online community-building, revealing how deep … Continue reading"[161] From YouTube rabbit holes to spiritual awakening with the Connexionalist"

In a world that feels overwhelming, hope isn’t just a feel-good idea—it’s vital for resilience and growth. This episode of Compass helps cultivate a mud-on-the-boots kind of hope, even when it feels like too much. Real hope isn’t about ignoring pain—it’s about facing it and choosing to believe in something better anyway. Hope is spiritual … Continue reading"[160] Hope is not optional: Resisting numbness and finding light"

NOTE: New episodes of Compass will resume July 9, 2025. Feeling overwhelmed by digital noise and daily stress? In this mini-episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday, host Ryan Dunn introduces the Ignatian Examen—a centuries-old contemplative prayer practice that helps bring clarity, gratitude, and peace to modern life. Discover how this simple daily ritual … Continue reading"[159] How a 500-year-old prayer practice can calm modern anxiety"

Join Bishop C. Andrew Doyle—Episcopal Bishop, author, and passionate vinyl record collector—and explore the sacred within the ordinary and the power of embodied spiritual practice. Bishop Doyle opens up about his latest book, “Unabashed Faith: Resisting Spiritual Forces in the Modern World,” and shares practical wisdom on carving out sacred spaces, reclaiming rest in a … Continue reading"[158] From vinyl rituals to sacred community with Bishop Andrew Doyle"

How do we find spiritual belonging and healing in a world filled with loneliness, uncertainty, and division? In this special episode of Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday, host Ryan Dunn is joined by Dori Grinenko Baker and Anna Del Castillo for a heartfelt conversation about tapping into the “deep wells” of soulful practice, community … Continue reading"[157] Soulful practices for healing and belonging"

Navigating spiritual growth through the Enneagram with Hunter Mobley on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Hunter shares his personal journey from evangelical “five-step spirituality” to a deeper, more contemplative faith that sees spiritual practices as pathways to soul transformation. Discover how the Enneagram can help unearth your truest self, why letting go is key … Continue reading"[156] Exploring the Enneagram and spiritual simplicity with Hunter Mobley"

Let’s explore the fascinating and often complex world of Christian eschatology, unraveling the various interpretations of end times theology. In this episode, Ryan leads us through the evolution of eschatological beliefs—from historical premillennialism to amillennialism, postmillennialism, and premillennial dispensationalism.

It’s a Biblical exploration of the strange, fantastical and mysterious. From Leviathan to unicorns to UAPs, we’re inspiring curiosity and awe as we see what these strange occurrences and observations in the Bible tell us about the Divine. In this episode: [00:00] Introducing a little levity [02:01] God-human hybrids [05:18] Sea monster [07:11] The talking … Continue reading"[154] Fantastical beasts and where to find them (in the Bible)"

Lent’s more than a diet; it’s a spiritual journey. Joseph Yoo shares how fasting reveals our hunger and dependence on God. Dive into silence and prayer, and discover what your Lenten practice has to teach you. Hungry for more Compass? Check out www.umc.org/compass for notes and more episodes.

In this episode, we unpack the importance of embracing human complexity and the practice of truth-telling in spirituality. From Lauryn Hill to Kendrick Lamar, see how a cultural mixtape can guide one’s spiritual journey. Don’t miss insights on how spiritual seekers can curate a personalized connection to the divine through grounded traditions and ethical practices. … Continue reading"[152] Spiritual mixtaping and bridging faith, culture and identity with Tamice Spencer-Helms"

Reverend Corey Turnpenny invites us on an awe-inspiring exploration of spirituality harmonized with the beauty of the natural world. Learn about the innovative faith community, Church in the Wild, where worship occurs beneath open skies, embracing the rhythms of nature and fostering a sense of belonging for those who feel spiritually homeless. Corey Turnpenny is … Continue reading"[151] How Church in the Wild connects faith and nature"

Transforming Life and Faith: Ben Gosden on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Join us for an inspiring discussion with Ben Gosden as he shares his transformative journey through addiction, recovery, and the ever-present grace that guided him back to spiritual alignment. Explore Ben’s insights on how the tenets of recovery not only shape one’s … Continue reading"[150] Spiritual Lessons from Recovery: Ben Gosden on Faith and Transformation"

Discovering Faith Through Questions with Erin Moon on Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday. Join host Ryan Dunn in a conversation with Erin Hicks Moon, a dynamic podcaster and author of the upcoming book “I’ve Got Questions.” Together, they investigate the powerful role of curiosity in deepening one’s faith and navigating skepticism. Explore themes like … Continue reading"[149] Humor, theology, and asking the deepest questions with Erin Hicks Moon"

Let’s get dirty and honest about our often voyeuristic relationship with the divine — and how prayer can profoundly disrupt and enrich our everyday lives. Explore the curious phenomena of spiritual fascination from a safe distance and the transformative power of genuine engagement with the divine through prayer. Rev. Ryan Dunn uses relatable analogies, like … Continue reading"[148] Spiritual voyeurs and engaging with the Divine"

Matthew Ian Fleming on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Matthew dives deep into the enigmatic Book of Revelation, shedding light on its broader message of hope, justice, and new creation, far from its often misinterpreted doom and gloom reputation. Learn about his unique approach to understanding Revelation, anchored by Psalm 139, and its relevance … Continue reading"[147] Revelation’s Real Story: Hope, Justice, and God Amidst Chaos"

Join us on this special episode of Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday as we celebrate Rethink Church’s impactful journey by revisiting some of their most beloved stories from 2024. Dive into the heart of community, mindfulness, and spiritual practices, all while exploring how innovative faith expressions can redefine modern spirituality. In this episode, you … Continue reading"[146] Your favorite Rethink Church stories of 2024"

Edith and Randy Woodley invite us to rediscover our connection with nature, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life and the importance of community-based ecological practices. Uncover their approach to land stewardship, communal living, and the rejection of individualism for a more holistic and balanced way of living. Edith and Randy Woodley are passionate environmentalists and … Continue reading"[145] Contentment and connecting with all life with Edith and Randy Woodley"

We’re working through our fear and fostering a bit of empathy in this conversation with Rev. Dr. Paul Burns on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Join us as Paul Burns dives deep into the core of human spirituality and relationships, addressing the instinctual divisions between people and how finding common ground can create bridges … Continue reading"[144] Measuring your spiritual intelligence with Paul Burns"

It’s an exploration of the mysterious, spooky, awe-inspiring realm of Halloween. This episode looks at Halloween questions through scripture, tradition, reason, and experience—the Wesleyan quadrilateral—to uncover multifaceted answers. We’ll ponder biblical stories, explore John Wesley’s haunted childhood home, and consider contemporary beliefs about life after death. Moreover, we’ll reflect on the role of fear and … Continue reading"[143] Do Christians believe in ghosts? And other Halloween questions"

We’re unleashing the power of “Rage Prayers” with Reverend Elizabeth Riley. Dive into the transformative practice of honest, heartfelt prayers that express our deepest emotions and frustrations. Explore how embracing our anger and lament can lead to spiritual healing and personal transformation. Rev. Elizabeth is an Episcopal priest currently serving in the Diocese of Olympia, … Continue reading"[142] Rage prayers and authentic peace with Elizabeth Riley"

We’re exploring the innovative ways churches in Northern Virginia are blending spirituality and community outreach–from improv church to affordable housing. In this episode of Compass, we’re visiting four unique and innovative expressions of church in Northern Virginia and Maryland. See how Central United Methodist Church in the Ballston neighborhood renovated their old church building in … Continue reading"[141] Community, comedy and church renovation"

We’re borrowing an important interview from the MyCom Podcast. Host Ryan Dunn talked with Rev. J.J. Warren about what defines a church and how J.J. is putting the definition into practice through the Church of the Young Prophets. Drawing from his theological background and experiences with the Young Prophets Collective, J.J. discusses the evolution of virtual … Continue reading"[140] Real church in digital space with J.J. Warren"

Neelley Hicks shares her experience that landed her picture in papers across the globe, stemming from a recent Unity Rally in Nashville, Tennessee. It was attended by a diverse and vibrant community and disrupted by the alarming presence of Neo-Nazis. This episode looks into the complex emotions and motivations behind such extremist actions and explores … Continue reading"[139] From hate to hope: Neelley Hicks"

We’re tackling the topic of living out our faith in a complex and often polarized world. Recently, the outrage sparked by the opening ceremonies of the Paris 2024 Olympics, particularly a controversial scene perceived to mock Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper,” has ignited debates and outraged responses. We’ll explore how to express our faith … Continue reading"[138] Faith and outrage: Jesus’ teachings in a polarized culture"

Summarizing Faith and Theology with Bruce Reyes-Chow on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Bruce shares the importance of distilling and articulating beliefs in simple, digestible formats. Discover his innovative concept of a “faith montage” and how it serves as a primer on progressive Christianity to guide individuals through faith deconstruction and reconstruction. Bruce Reyes-Chow … Continue reading"[137] Crafting a clarity of belief with Bruce Reyes-Chow"

Pastor David Livingston discusses the concept of abundant life and how it can be experienced in the present. He emphasizes that abundant life is not solely about material well-being or a perfect life, but rather about finding spiritual and emotional well-being in the midst of life’s challenges. Pastor Livingston shares his personal experience with anxiety … Continue reading"[136] Conflict, faith and growth with David Livingston"

Unpacking the mysteries of hell and love with Derek Kubilus on Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday. Derek takes us on a thought-provoking journey through the complex relationship between a God of love and the concept of eternal torment. Explore his ideas on purgatorial universalism, the evolution of hell in Christian theology, and how these … Continue reading"[135] Exploring Hell, Purgatory, and God’s Love with Derek Kubilus"

Rediscover centering and spirituality with Andrew Lang on “Compass: Finding Spirituality in the Everyday.” Andrew Lang, a guiding voice in spiritual practices, shares transformative insights on integrating centering practices into daily life, overcoming the “dark night of the soul,” and finding creative ways to connect with our spirituality. Listen in as Lang explains how centering … Continue reading"[134] Spiritual practices for busy lives with Andrew Lang"

Curious about maintaining compassion and engaging in meaningful conversations in your daily life? On Compass 133, join Ryan Dunn as he speaks with John Pavlovitz about finding common ground and exploring spirituality amidst life’s challenges. Discover how to navigate differences with empathy, find solace in nature, and embrace your faith journey authentically. John shares his … Continue reading"[133] Cultivating empathy in polarized times: Insights from John Pavlovitz"

We’re exploring a pivotal moment in the life of the United Methodist Church—the historic 2024 General Conference held in Charlotte, North Carolina. This conference marked a significant turning point, as 93% of the delegates voted to lift long-standing bans on the ordination of LGBTQ+ clergy and the hosting of same-sex weddings by clergy and churches. … Continue reading"[132] A historic shift in inclusion for the United Methodist Church"

The United Methodist Church is going to be in the news due to the big General Conference Gathering. Here’s why. ALSO, we’re going to miss a couple of full episodes due to the big event. We’ll be back with new episodes on May 15, 2024.

Join us as Dr. Richard Beck discusses mysticism in daily life, and how enchantment can transform our view in “Hunting Magic Eels.” Feeling world-weary? Richard discusses how moral beauty & acts of kindness can awaken awe. Explore the mystical in the mundane on the Compass Podcast! Richard is a Professor of Psychology at Abilene Christian … Continue reading"[131] Keeping Christianity weird with Dr Richard Beck"

Are you sometimes afraid to ask questions about faith and spirituality? Does doubt scare you a little bit? Do you have some questions you’re skeptical about ever finding the answers to? Debie Thomas’s approach to faith as a storied theology challenges the conventional beliefs. Her insights offer a refreshing perspective on the dynamic nature of … Continue reading"[130] Faith vacations and lostness with Debie Thomas"

Lenny duncan takes us through a spiritual journey in hip-hop on Compass. Engage in conversations about systemic change and personal faith. If you want to hear some cultural commentary from a spiritual perspective, if you want to explore how hip-hop music speaks to both our human experience and our longing for spiritual connection, and if … Continue reading"[129] Beats, peacemaking and authenticity with lenny duncan"

We’re talking with Christine Valters Paintner about the spiritual significance of fasting and Lent. Christine, the founder of the Online Abbey of the Arts, shares her insights on how fasting can go beyond traditional ideas of abstaining from food and can instead be a way to open ourselves to a deeper encounter with the divine. … Continue reading"[128] Lent, fasting and spiritual nourishment with Christine Valters Paintner"

Faith, science and life calling! In this episode, we have the pleasure of talking with Rev. Kara Slade, an engineer turned priest whose journey from the world of mechanical engineering to the pulpit is an interesting blend of spirituality and professional transformation.  Rev. Canon Dr. Kara Slade holds a PhD in Christian theology and ethics … Continue reading"[127] Engaging faith and reason: Kara Slade’s spiritual journey"

We’re talking with Rev. Heather Jallad about the creative, fun and innovative ways that church is coming together and meeting the world. It’s an invitation to Rethink Church. This episode of Compass dives into new expressions of church like Dinner Church and Messy Church. It’s all inspiring… and it gets us thinking about how we, … Continue reading"[126] Church Rethought: Embracing Unconventional Spaces for Community and Spirituality"

In this episode, we sit down with Abigail Browka, the curator of the Everyday Sanctuary app, and we get into the importance of real-life experiences and faith journeys.  Pastor Abigail shares profound insights into tapping into creative spirituality, from the necessity of supporting one another in our spiritual paths to the role of brief, accessible … Continue reading"[125] Cultivating everyday spirituality in 2024 with Abigail Browka"

Ryan Dunn addresses the struggle to find peace during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Offering contemplative practices for a more peaceful Christmas, Ryan explores ways to connect with God’s loving and peaceful spirit during this special time of year. From leveraging inconveniences as moments of reflection to turning preparations into prayers, listeners … Continue reading"[124] Contemplative practices for a peaceful Christmas"

Niceness in church communities can sometimes conceal deeper issues of injustice. It’s important to disrupt the status quo and engage in conversations about patriarchy, inequality, and systems of oppression. In this episode, you probably want to listen for the ways in niceness, though well-meaning, can be a hindrance to equality and justice. Also listen for … Continue reading"[123] Nice church, not nice patriarchy: A conversation with Liz Cooledge Jenkins"

We’ll explore questions like: Does God need our worship? Are some sins worse than others? How does spirituality affect mental health? Can science and religion coexist? Where do we see evidence of God? And why would a good God allow for evil? We’ll provide perspectives and insights on these questions, emphasizing that our answers are … Continue reading"Quick takes on tough questions of the Christian faith"

The Compass Podcast looks into a topic that has been making headlines and stirring heated debates: the Israel and Gaza conflict. Specifically, we will address a perplexing phenomenon: the religiously driven blind support of Israeli militarism by some Christians. What theological perspectives drive such a fascination with this conflict and where did those ideas come … Continue reading"[121] Israel, conflict, end times and interventions of peace"

Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, culture, and personal experiences with Rev. Mark Feldmeir. Mark’s faith journey led him to question the nature of God’s power, especially in the face of suffering and evil. He emphasized that God’s power is not coercive or unilateral, but rather persuasive. Mark also reflected on the … Continue reading"[120] Discovering evidence of the Divine in everyday moments with Mark Feldmeir"

Hosts Ryan Dunn and Michelle Maldonado, alongside guest Ashley Boggan, take us on a journey to uncover the distinctiveness of the Methodist faith. Initially produced as part of the United Methodist Podcast-a-thon, this episode offers insightful perspectives from Dr. Ashley Boggan, the general secretary of the United Methodist Church’s General Commission on Archives and History. … Continue reading"[119] What makes United Methodists different?"

Are you ready to explore the intersections of artificial intelligence and spirituality? Join us on the latest episode of Compass as we dive into the impact of AI on the Christian spiritual journey. We navigate the potential benefits and pitfalls of integrating AI into our everyday spirituality, play around with AI Jesus entities, and hear … Continue reading"[118] Artificial intelligence and your spiritual journey"

Rev. Josh Scott, author of “Bible Stories for Grown Ups” explores with us the paradoxical possibilities of the Bible’s ancient narratives. We dive deep into the serious question of faith: “What do we make of the seeming contradictions and inconsistencies in the Bible?” Josh helps us see how asking these tough, discomforting questions can become … Continue reading"[117] Does the Bible contradict itself? With Josh Scott"

It’s time for cosmic theology as we examine the spiritual depths of Star Wars and Star Trek. Covering everything from Jedi to Klingons, Michelle Maldonado and Ryan Dunn are going boldly forth seeking the spiritual in space. Join us as we explore the theological reflections found in these iconic franchises. For episodes and notes, visit … Continue reading"116: The Force and the Final Frontier"

Reverend Jerry Herships shares his unique perspective on creating a nontraditional community that connects with something bigger and provides a sense of belonging. Jerry has worked as stand-up comedian. He wrote for Jay Leno. He’s authored a couple books, including Last Call: from serving drinks to serving Jesus and Rogue Saints: Spirituality for Good Hearted … Continue reading"Re-listen: Rediscovering church with Jerry Herships"

Rev. Canaday shared with us his story of recovery in alcoholism and finding deep connection with a higher power. This connection led Ryan to explore the power of support groups and specifically the role of spirituality in recovery. All this ultimately led to Ryan founding a church based on recovery. We’re five years on from … Continue reading"114: [Re-listen] Wagon of grace with Ryan Canaday"

Art and prayer share much in common–so much so that art can lead us into prayer and connection with the Divine. In this episode of Compass, Michelle and Ryan try out two art-based spiritual practices… and they provide directions on how you can utilize these practices as well. To see “The Annunciation” by Henry Ossawa … Continue reading"113: Art and your spiritual journey"

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the busyness of life? In the latest episode of Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday, Ryan Dunn invites listeners to disrupt their busyness through loving-kindness meditation. The episode features a discussion on the benefits of loving-kindness meditation on mental well-being and relationships. Here are three key takeaways from the … Continue reading"112: Disrupt Your Busy Life and Cultivate a Heart of Loving Kindness with this Meditation"

On this episode of Compass: Finding spirituality in the everyday, host Ryan Dunn, a former youth minister, explores the factors that contribute to people leaving the church. Ryan starts by sharing how a student’s experience made him question the effectiveness of ministry for young people. The episode covers seven reasons for people leaving the church, … Continue reading"111: Why People Are Leaving Church: 7 Reasons Explored"

Through May, our articles focused on the work of the Holy Spirit… which we’ll see can show up in some surprising places. In this edition of the audiomagazine, we’ll hear: (00:00) Introduction to the Rethink Church audiomagazine (00:43) “The amazing ways God is working right now” (06:02) “How to live a Spirit-filled life” (11:06) “Why … Continue reading"Spirit-filled: May 2023 Rethink Church audiomagazine"

Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III reflects on his upbringing with parents involved in the civil rights movement and his journey towards identifying with the black prophetic and spiritual tradition within the black church. He also dives into everyday disruptions by stressing the importance of intentional, slow connections with God through activities like walks and bike … Continue reading"110: Linking love and justice with Otis Moss III"

We delve into the topic of iconoclasm and the conflict it causes in communities as they grapple with troubling figures from their spiritual history. From Confederate statues in Richmond to famous theologians who have committed atrocities, we explore how we evaluate historical figures through multiple lenses and the importance of deep discernment in Christian leadership. … Continue reading"109: From heroes to villains: The role of iconoclasm with Diana Butler Bass"

We’re talking diversity, inclusion, integration, hope, the church and divine intervention with John Blake. John has some interesting stories to tell about family and relationships… including his relationship with the church. John Blake is an award-winning journalist for CNN.com. His 2020 essay, “There’s One Epidemic We May Never Find a Cure For: Fear of Black … Continue reading"108: John Blake explores the world-changing power of relationships"

Special release. On the morning of March 27, 2023, a gunman entered Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee, and shot 6 people to death. This event was a catalyst in Nashville, leading to protests, political intrigue and division, and the organization of a wide base of religious leaders. In this episode of Compass, Michelle Maldonado and … Continue reading"Faith in Action: Examining the Moral Monday Protest in Nashville"

The April 2023 edition of the Rethink Church audiomagazine presented on the Compass podcast. In this edition, we present the latest stories and one classic read from the Rethink Church website. Throughout April 2023, our content focused on faithfulness. We’ll hear: “The growing pains of faithfulness” by Madison Myers https://www.umc.org/en/content/the-growing-pains-of-faithfulness  “What happens when we make … Continue reading"Faithfulness: April 2023 Rethink Church audiomagazine"

Restlessness is not comfortable. We’d rather not spend too much time dwelling on thoughts of missing out… or of doubt… or spend too much time dwelling on mundanity of life. That’s not a comfortable place to be. So when someone like Casey Tygrett comes along suggesting that restlessness is a gift because it opens us … Continue reading"107: When restlessness is a gift"

Rev. Richenda Fairhurst shares about the relationship between our faith, spirituality and concern for our environment. This concern compels us to respond to climate change. Rev. Richenda shares several action steps for combating climate change–both personal actions and community action. Richenda Fairhust was trained by the Climate Reality Project and Center for Earth Ethics Ministers’ … Continue reading"106: Climate change and taking spiritual action in response"

In this edition, we present the latest stories and one classic read from the Rethink Church website. Throughout March 2023, our content focused on Lent and the resilience it inspires. We’ll hear: “What is Palm Sunday?” by Ryan Dunn https://www.umc.org/en/content/what-is-palm-sunday “Lent, fasting and revelation” by Joseph Yoo https://www.umc.org/en/content/lent-fasting-hunger-and-revelation  “Resilient women in the Bible” by Madison … Continue reading"Resilience: Rethink Church March 2023 audiomagazine"

Christian Collins Winn joins the Compass Podcast to share how disruptive the teachings of Jesus really are–especially in regards to our social and political systems. Christian makes the claim that, though we don’t often talk about “Jubilee” and “apocalypse”, faith is all about what those terms represent and disrupting broken systems through actions like the … Continue reading"105: Jubilee, apocalypse and the politics of Jesus"

Joseph Yoo uses the power of stories — both ancient and contemporary — to remind us how we are often unexpectedly intertwined with one another and with God. Rev. Joseph Yoo. Joseph is the planter of Mosaic Episcopal Church located in the suburbs of Houston, Texas. And he has just released a book called “When … Continue reading"104: Who is a saint and why do they matter? With Joseph Yoo"

This is the February 2023 edition of the Rethink Church audiomagazine presented on the Compass podcast. In this edition, we present the latest stories and one classic read from the Rethink Church website. Throughout February 2023, our content focused on being deeply rooted. We’ll hear: (00:00) Introduction (00:50) “The Last of Us: Hive Mind vs … Continue reading"Deeply Rooted: February 2023 Rethink Church Audiomagazine"

What is the season of Lent, where did it come from and why is it important? Do you know the most popular things to give up during Lent? You might be surprised by how some people practice this special season. Compass co-hosts Ryan and Michelle share their Lenten experiences and some ideas about how we … Continue reading"103: Let’s get into Lent"

Jessica Richie shares the story and practices behind “The Lives We Actually Have”, written with Kate Bowler. “The Lives We Actually Have” (Releasing February 14, 2023) is a collection of blessings for the struggles of our shared humanity, from the New York Times bestselling authors of “Good Enough”. A blessing for a painful day? A … Continue reading"102: Blessing our messy everyday lives with Jessica Richie"

This is the January 2023 edition of the Rethink Church audiomagazine presented on the Compass podcast. In this edition, we present the latest stories from the Rethink Church website. Throughout January 2023, our content focused on Jesus and also questions about the United Methodist Church. We’ll hear: (00:00) Introduction (00:44) “Anxiety and one of Jesus’ … Continue reading"Jesus and questions about the UMC: Rethink Church audiomagazine January 2023"

Caroline Oakes shares how contemplative prayer and meditation rewire our thinking and open us up for Divine connection. In this episode, you’ll hear how Jesus practiced “the pause”–or took time away for centering and contemplation. You’ll also hear some of the ways that our own contemplative practices can change our thought processes and awaken a … Continue reading"101: Rewire your brain for powerful spiritual connections with Caroline Oakes"

What are the best streaming shows right now for connecting faith and life through theological reflection? Compass shares their recommendations. It’s a big episode! It’s episode 100 for the Compass podcast! And we’re introducing a new member to the Compass team. In order to get to know our team, we’re recommending several shows and movies … Continue reading"100: 10 recommended shows to stream right now for theological reflection"

Happy Advent! Let’s prepare for the UPCOMING Christmas season by looking at the history and practices of the holiday. Why is the date of Jesus’ birth celebrated on December 25? Why do we sometimes call Santa Claus “Saint Nicholas”? Was the Grinch based on a real person? We’re doing a short but deep dive into … Continue reading"99: Disrupting 10 Christmas myths"

Divine disruptions are happening on TikTok every day. Kelley Finch, Joseph Yoo and Sarah Tevis-Townes tell their stories of coming to TikTok and finding some beautiful relationships and community. Find Pastor Kelley at @pastorkelley Find Rev. Joseph at @joseph.yoo And Pastor Sarah at @disorganized.religion

Throughout November of 2022, our content focused on diversity and the season of Advent. We’ll hear: “The broken family of Black Panther” by Nathan Webb https://www.umc.org/en/content/the-broken-family-of-black-panther-wakanda-forever  “Why diversity in the church matters” by Madison Myers https://www.umc.org/en/content/why-diversity-in-the-church-matters  “Have we embraced diversity or tokenism?” by Joseph Yoo https://www.umc.org/en/content/have-we-embraced-diversity-or-tokenism  and “What is Advent about?” by Ryan Dunn  https://www.umc.org/en/content/what-is-advent-about

Gratitude is good. But Thanksgiving is an issue. We could consider a space for lament and healing. Mark Charles, co-author of Unsettling Truths: The Ongoing, Dehumanizing Legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery, shares a history of the Thanksgiving holiday and how we can instead make room for lament that offers healing.

Learn how to utilize the contemplative practice of imaginative prayer. This episode of Compass is an abbreviated one, as we’re working on what’s turning into a kind of double episode for next week. But in the meantime, we share another practice that leads into a deep sense of connection and helps broaden personal perspective beyond … Continue reading"96: Using your imagination in prayer"