Future of Faith Podcast

What actually moves the needle for people when it comes to faith? What strategies are shaping the future of ministry?   Each episode of the Future of Faith Podcast brings together national research experts and ministry practitioners for real conversations about the cutting-edge data, trends, and insights that are reshaping faith communities today. Rooted in deep research and a commitment to listening, this podcast goes beyond theory to explore what truly helps people connect, grow, and engage.   Hosted by the team at Future of Faith, this is where research meets real-world ministry. Expect candid discussions, practical takeaways, and the latest findings on what’s working—and what’s not—for the next generation of faith leaders.   🔎 More at www.futureoffaith.org

We all know that listening is important—but until now, we didn’t have the data to back it up. In this bonus episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Megan Bissell take us behind the scenes of the Listening and Faith Formation Research Project. They unpack why this study was necessary, how the data was collected, and what the findings mean for faith communities looking to build trust and relationships through listening. Turns out, listening isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s essential for faith formation. And now, there’s research to prove it.   Why This Study Matters: 📉 The gap in research was real. We had plenty of studies on sermons and teaching—but almost nothing on the impact of listening in faith communities. 🔬 Good research starts with good questions. This project wasn’t about proving a point—it was about genuinely exploring how listening shapes faith. 🤝 Collaboration was key. Bringing together researchers, faith leaders, and community voices made the study richer and more meaningful. (But also? Slower. Good research takes time!) 💡 The findings have real-world applications. This isn’t just theory—faith communities can use this data to integrate listening into their existing programs.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔵 Why there was so little research on listening in faith 🟠 How trust and relationships are linked to listening 🟢 The power of combining quantitative & qualitative data 🔴 Why collaboration made this research stronger 🟣 How these insights can shape ministry and leadership   Research Is Just the Beginning This study is a starting point—not the final word. The more we understand listening, the more we can use it to build stronger, more connected faith communities.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   What questions do you still have about listening and faith? Let’s keep the conversation going. Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. 🎙️🔥

Want to be more effective in ministry? Start by listening. Not just hearing words, but actually listening—deeply, intentionally, with no agenda. It’s not just a skill; it’s faith formation itself. 🙌 In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Keedren Boston break down why trust matters more than truth (yep, you read that right). The data is clear: truth only resonates when trust has been established. And trust? That comes from time spent and genuine engagement. Listening ➤ Talking Ministry isn’t about standing on a stage and delivering truth bombs—it’s about relationships. When people feel heard, they’re more open to growth, transformation, and faith. This episode dives into how listening creates a reciprocal relationship, where both the listener and the speaker are changed.   💡 Big insight? A listening culture doesn’t just happen—it has to be built. And when it is, it scales ministry efforts like nothing else. 🚀   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why listening IS faith formation—not just a tool for it ✅ How building trust over time makes ministry more effective ✅ Why truth needs trust to land ✅ How listening can transform both the speaker and the listener ✅ Why prayer matters when navigating sensitive topics   Let’s Build a Culture of Listening If you want to lead better, serve deeper, and connect more authentically, this episode is for you.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter Got stories, thoughts, or questions? We’d love to hear from you! Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org 🎙️🔥 Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages in a deep conversation with Pastor Robbie Cansler about her journey in ministry, the importance of storytelling, and the challenges faced by women in church leadership. Robbie shares her experiences of navigating barriers, the significance of creating space for women's voices, and the power of community and hospitality in fostering a supportive church environment. The discussion also highlights the need for diverse perspectives in biblical scholarship and the role of storytelling in understanding scripture. Robbie's book, 'She Leads,' serves as a resource for exploring women's roles in faith and encourages communal engagement with scripture. -- Robbie Cansler Bio: Ordained elder in the church of the Nazarene. Pastors the Mission Church of the Nazarene Hammond, IN. Married to Mac, and mother of 4 kids. Conference director for Wesleyan Holiness Women Clergy. DMin student at Northern Seminary, studying Women, Theology, and Leadership. Author of “She Leads: God’s Intent for Women in the Church”. In her spare time, she likes to read and be outdoors as much as possible. -- Links Book - She Leads: God’s Intent for Women in the Church www.futureoffaith.org #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God

Let’s be honest—when was the last time someone really listened to you? Not just nodded along or waited for their turn to talk, but truly heard you? Turns out, that kind of listening isn’t just good for relationships—it’s transformational for faith, especially among young people. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Keedren Boston dive into a game-changing new research study on listening and faith formation. And the results? They might just upend the way we think about ministry. Listening > Preaching? 🤯 Traditional sermons have their place, but 67% of people say they grow in faith when they’re listened to. That’s a massive deal. The study shows that young people, in particular, don’t just want to be talked at—they want real relationships. They want to wrestle with their beliefs, process their thoughts, and feel heard without judgment. The takeaway? Listening is not passive—it’s sacred. It builds trust, strengthens communities, and creates space for real spiritual growth. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why listening is one of the most powerful (and underrated) tools in ministry ✅ How understanding, not just preaching, makes for better leadership ✅ Why youth prefer conversations over traditional sermons ✅ How data can help us ask better questions in faith communities ✅ Why listening outperforms traditional methods for spiritual growth   So, What’s Next? This episode sets the stage for a deeper dive into the research and its real-world applications. If you care about faith, ministry, or simply being a better listener, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter Got thoughts? Feedback? A great story about the power of listening? Hit us up at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear from you! 🎙️✨ Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

We talk a lot about teaching people in faith communities—but what if the real power lies in listening instead? 🤔 In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Keedren Boston and Josh Packard dive deeper into how listening transforms youth ministry and faith formation. They explore the power of circle time, a structured space where youth can safely share their thoughts and experiences. Turns out, when we stop talking at young people and start listening to them, faith and community thrive. 🚀 Listening ➤ Teaching? We’ve been conditioned to think that teaching is the most effective way to pass on faith. But research (and real-world experience) shows that listening is just as powerful—if not more so. Youth don’t just need answers; they need validation, connection, and the freedom to process their beliefs out loud. 💡 Key insight? Questions set the stage, but the real magic happens in the responses.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ How circle time fosters trust and community ✅ Why safe spaces are critical for open sharing ✅ The underrated skill of listening (yes, you can get better at it!) ✅ How giving youth a voice deepens their faith ✅ Why youth can and should lead discussions   Ready to Rethink Ministry? 🔗 Dig into the full study (whitepaper, data graphics & more): 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Got thoughts? Stories? A youth leader who’s changing the game? Hit us up at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear from you! 🎙️   Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

Want to make a real impact in faith formation? It’s not just about what you say—it’s about how relatable and reliable you are. If people can’t connect with you or trust you, your words don’t matter. Period. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Keedren Boston break down why relatability builds connection and reliability builds trust—both of which are essential for meaningful ministry, especially with youth. They explore what it really means to listen without judgment, be present without agenda, and create safe spaces for open dialogue. Because let’s be real: faith formation doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it happens in relationships. Relatability ➤ Shared Humanity People don’t need perfect leaders. They need authentic ones. 💡 Show your scars, not your wounds. Share experiences, not just lessons. Speak the language of the people you serve. Youth (and honestly, everyone) crave realness—not rehearsed sermons. Reliability ➤ Trust & Presence Being reliable isn’t just about showing up—it’s about being consistent, safe, and trustworthy. If people know they can count on you, they’ll open up in ways that lead to real faith growth.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why relatability & reliability are game-changers in faith formation ✅ How listening without judgment fosters deeper connections ✅ Why discernment matters—knowing when to speak and when to stay quiet ✅ How to create safe spaces for open, honest dialogue ✅ Why learning the language of youth culture enhances ministry   Ready to Lead with Authenticity? If you’re serious about building trust and connection in ministry, you don’t want to miss this episode.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Thoughts? Stories? A youth leader who’s doing this well? Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear from you! 🎙️🔥   Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

Want to know the secret to real impact in ministry? Reliability. It’s not just about being there—it’s about showing up, following up, and proving that you care over time. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Keedren Boston and Josh Packard break down why reliability is a non-negotiable in ministry. They explore how personal connections + consistent follow-up = real trust—not just with youth, but with entire faith communities. And here’s the kicker: having a system matters. If you want to keep up with the people you serve, you need tools, structure, and a plan.   Reliability Isn’t Just a Nice-to-Have—It’s Everything. 🛠️ Personal connections fuel effective ministry. People don’t just remember what you say; they remember how you show up for them. 📅 Systems help manage relationships. Whether it’s a calendar, notes app, or an actual CRM (yes, ministry leaders can use CRMs too!), having a way to track birthdays, prayer requests, and past conversations builds trust and deepens relationships. 🔁 Follow-up proves you care. Checking in after the big event, remembering details from conversations, and making space for ongoing connection shows that ministry isn’t just about the moment—it’s about the relationship.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why reliability is the foundation of trust in ministry ✔️ The power of follow-up (and why so many leaders miss this step) ✔️ Practical tools for keeping track of relationships ✔️ How consistency creates a safe and supportive environment ✔️ Why adults need care in ministry too—not just youth   Ready to Build a More Reliable Ministry? Whether you lead a youth group, pastor a church, or simply want to be a better faith leader, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you create lasting connections.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Got thoughts on reliability in ministry? A system that works for you? Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear from you! 🎙️🔥   Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

You know what kills real connection? Assumptions. You know what builds it? Curiosity. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Keedren Boston dive into the game-changing role of curiosity in faith formation, trust-building, and effective communication—especially in youth ministry. Listening isn’t just about staying quiet while someone talks. It’s about engagement, follow-up, and asking better questions. When we approach conversations with curiosity, we deepen relationships, build trust, and create safe spaces for real faith growth. Ignore this? You risk shutting people down before the conversation even starts.   Curiosity vs. Assumption: The Conversation Decider 🗝️ Curiosity builds bridges. When we ask good questions and listen with an open mind, people feel heard and valued. 🚧 Assumptions build walls. Jumping to conclusions kills trust and makes real dialogue impossible. If you’re not curious, you’re just waiting for your turn to talk. 🔄 Effective listening is a two-way street. This isn’t a transaction—it’s transformation. When you engage, ask follow-ups, and truly listen, relationships change.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How curiosity leads to deeper understanding in faith conversations ✔️ Why judgment is the enemy of effective listening ✔️ The power of follow-up questions in meaningful dialogue ✔️ How to create a safe space for honest conversations ✔️ Why listening isn’t passive—it’s active, intentional, and powerful   Let’s Make Listening Count. If you care about faith, ministry, or simply being a better communicator, this episode is a must.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Got stories about the power of curiosity? A time when listening changed everything? Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear from you! 🎙️🔥   Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

We all know listening is important. But let’s be real—most of us think we’re great listeners when, in reality, we’re making a few key mistakes that shut conversations down fast. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Keedren Boston and Josh Packard break down five major listening mistakes that can wreck trust, stall faith formation, and make people feel unheard. (Plus, they throw in a bonus tip about when laughter can backfire!) Through personal stories and research-backed insights, they reveal how true listening goes beyond just being quiet—it’s about creating a space where real dialogue can happen.   The 5 Things Not to Do When Listening: ❌ Don’t judge. Judgment kills openness. If people sense criticism, they’ll shut down. 🙅‍♂️ Don’t give unsolicited advice. Just because you can fix it doesn’t mean you should. Ask before offering input. ⏸️ Don’t interrupt. Cutting someone off signals that their words don’t matter as much as yours. 📵 Don’t look at your phone. Distraction = disrespect. Be present. 🧐 Don’t make assumptions. Jumping to conclusions keeps you from truly understanding. 🎭 Bonus Tip: Be careful with laughter! Even well-intended chuckles can send the wrong message in serious conversations.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔵 Listening without judgment fosters deeper connections 🟠 Unsolicited advice can alienate instead of helping 🟢 Interruptions make speakers feel unheard and unvalued 🔴 Phone distractions break trust and engagement 🟣 Avoiding assumptions leads to better understanding 🟡 Why laughter can be tricky in serious discussions   Want to Be a Better Listener? If you want to improve your listening skills and build stronger faith communities, this episode is a must.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Have a listening fail (or win) to share? Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. We’d love to hear your story! 🎙️🔥   Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

Here’s the hard truth: Institutional trust is collapsing. Across industries, organizations, and yes—even faith communities—people are putting less faith in institutions and more in individuals.   So, what does that mean for ministry? It means relationship-centered faith leadership isn’t optional—it’s the future. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Josh Packard and Keedren Boston unpack the data behind the decline in institutional trust and reveal why listening is the key to rebuilding it. When people don’t trust organizations, they turn to personal relationships—and trust is built one genuine conversation at a time.   Trust Is Built, Not Assumed 🛠️ Listening with intent is the foundation of real trust. You can’t fake it. People know when they’re truly being heard. 📉 Institutional trust is at an all-time low. People trust individuals they know more than titles or organizations. ❤️ Relationships > Authority. Trust doesn’t come from a position of power—it comes from shared experiences, honesty, and consistency. 🌍 Ministry must be relationship-centered. People stay connected when they feel seen, known, and valued—not because of an institution’s reputation.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔵 How listening builds trust within faith communities 🟠 Why people trust relationships more than institutions 🟢 The importance of feedback in maintaining trust 🔴 How leaders can create spaces of belonging in a low-trust world 🟣 Why trust is gained slowly but lost quickly—and how to protect it   Where Do We Go from Here? This episode wraps up the season with a powerful look at the future of faith in a world where trust is earned, not assumed. If you care about leadership, ministry, or the future of faith communities, you don’t want to miss this one.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   Got insights on trust in faith communities? We’d love to hear them! Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. 🎙️🔥 Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

After a full season of deep dives, bold conversations, and powerful insights, it all comes back to one thing: relationships. In this episode of the Future of Faith Podcast, hosts Keedren Boston and Josh Packard reflect on what they’ve learned throughout the season—what’s working in ministry, what’s changing, and why listening and engagement are more important than ever. One thing is clear: younger generations aren’t looking for just another sermon—they’re looking for sanctuary. They want a place to be heard, to belong, and to build trust with people who genuinely care.   Lessons from the Season: 🤝 Relationships drive faith formation. Ministry isn’t about content—it’s about connection. 🎧 Listening is ministry. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is be present and pay attention. 🌱 Engagement with younger generations is essential. Youth want authenticity, not authority. They trust people who make the effort to connect. 💡 Curiosity opens doors. Asking questions, showing interest, and making space for real conversations changes everything. 🚀 Don’t overthink it. Everyone has the ability to make a difference. Start small. Be consistent. Show up.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🔵 Why relationships matter more than ever in ministry 🟠 How younger generations are looking for spaces to belong 🟢 The power of listening as a ministry tool 🔴 Practical steps to foster meaningful connections 🟣 How data can shape smarter ministry decisions   Where Do We Go from Here? As this season closes, the question isn’t what’s next for faith?—it’s what’s next for you? Ministry, leadership, and connection don’t just happen in big moments. They happen in small, intentional, everyday actions. Let’s start there.   🔗 Want the full study? Get the whitepaper, data graphics, and more: 👉 Sacred Listening Study   💬 Join the Conversation: 📍 Follow us on Facebook & LinkedIn: Future of Faith 📩 Sign up for our newsletter: futureoffaith.org/newsletter   What’s your biggest takeaway from this season? We’d love to hear it! Email us at hello@futureoffaith.org. 🎙️🔥 Music by Treleon Music – used with permission

There are great things coming in Season 2 of The Future of Faith podcast with loads of amazing guests and Greg Arthur serving as host. www.futureoffaith.org #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages with Dr. Jeff Holsclaw to explore the intersection of attachment theory and spiritual formation. They discuss how understanding attachment can enhance one's relationship with God and foster community connections. The conversation delves into the importance of listening, attunement, and the challenges faced by younger generations in a disembodied digital world. Practical strategies for cultivating emotional intelligence and secure attachments within faith communities are also shared, emphasizing the need for gratitude and integration of emotional practices. -- Dr. Geoff Holsclaw is an author of multiple books, is a visiting professor of theology at Western Theological Seminary where he and Cyd co-lead a Doctor of Ministry program, co-host of the Attaching to God podcast,  Geoff and his wife Cyd founded the Center for Embodied Faith which is working to anchor the soul through attachment-based, neuroscience informed, and Jesus- centered tools for discipleship and spiritual formation. With Cyd Holsclaw, Geoff is the co-author of the new book Landscapes of the Soul: How science and spirituality of attachment can move you into confident faith, courage, and connection -- Links: https://www.embodiedfaith.life/ Landscapes of the Soul: How the Science and Spirituality of Attachment Can Move You into Confident Faith, Courage, and Connection www.futureoffaith.org   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages in a deep conversation with Dr. Andy Fitzgerald, co-founder of Imagine Life Ministries. They explore the vibrant spiritual life at Bethel Church in Redding, California, discussing the importance of listening to God, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the challenges of experiencing the supernatural in a modern context. Dr. Fitzgerald shares his journey of discovery, emphasizing the need for an incarnational presence in ministry and the transformative power of community and coaching in revitalizing faith. The conversation highlights practical insights for cultivating a deeper connection with God and each other. -- Andy Fitzgerald Bio - Dr. Andy Fitzgerald is the Co-Founder and Co-Director of Imagine Life Ministries.   Imagine Life Ministries is a Leadership and Coaching ministry that brings vibrant spiritual life to the Church by renewing our minds and exchanging beliefs.  Previously, he was a lead pastor and church planter in the San Francisco Bay Area.  He has a doctorate degree in Contextual Theology from Northern Seminary. He is married to his wife, Jenny, for 25 years. Together they have four children, and they live in Redding, CA.    -- Links: https://imaginelifeministries.org/ www.futureoffaith.org   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages with Dr. Vincent Bacote, Professor of Theology at Wheaton College, to explore the complex themes surrounding empathy, particularly in the context of the church and society. They discuss the rise of the 'war on empathy' narrative, the implications of empathy in political and social discourse, and the diverse voices within the Black Evangelical community. The conversation highlights the importance of listening, understanding, and engaging with diverse perspectives to foster growth and transformation within faith and community. -- Vince Bio - Dr. Vincent Bacote is a Professor of Theology and the Director of the Center for Applied Christian Ethics at Wheaton College in Wheaton, IL. He is the author of Reckoning with Race and Performing the Good News: In Search of a Better Evangelical Theology (2020), The Political Disciple: A Theology of Public Life (2015), The Spirit in Public Theology: Appropriating the Legacy of Abraham Kuyper (2005), and has contributed to books including On Kuyper (2013), Aliens in the Promised Land (2013), Keep Your Head Up (2012) and Prophetic Evangelicals(2012). He is a regular columnist for Comment Magazine and contributes to other magazines, including Books and Culture, Christianity Today, Think Christian and re:generation quarterly, and journals such as Christian Scholars Review, Urban Mission and the Journal for Christian Theological Research. He is a member of the Evangelical Theological Society and the Society of Christian Ethics. -- Links: Documentary - https://pages.christianitytoday.com/black-evangelicals-documentary-lp www.futureoffaith.org   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God  

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages with Nick Benoit, the creative director of Wonder Hunt, a nonprofit dedicated to storytelling in faith. They explore Nick's journey from a creative child to a professional in ministry, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, listening, and creativity in faith practices. The conversation delves into how stories can foster empathy, understanding, and a deeper connection to God, while also discussing the role of music and cultural engagement in shaping one's faith journey. Nick shares insights on how Wonder Hunt aims to resource churches with creative storytelling tools, ultimately inviting individuals to experience God through narrative. -- Nick’s Bio - Nick Benoit is the Creative Director for Wonderhunt, a nonprofit that tells great stories, and gives them away to serve the church. They create incredible videos that provoke people to pause, get curious, & start looking for the things that help us live lives of beauty, richness, and meaning. As a performer, writer, and director, Nick has spearheaded artistic projects and teams for more than 15 years, creating art that blends filmmaking, live performance, and storytelling, work that’s been seen by hundreds of thousands of people around the world. Most recently, Nick was the creative director of Willow Creek where he spent 6 years imagining and producing unique artistic expressions to inspire, move, and mobilize diverse audiences toward action and introspection. Nick lives near Chicago with his wife, Karen, and their three kids. -- Links: https://www.wonderhunt.co/ www.futureoffaith.org   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God  

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages with Mako Nagasawa, exploring themes of faith, community, and restorative justice. Mako shares his journey from a background in technology and ministry to founding the Anastasis Center, which focuses on teaching restorative justice and healing through a Christian lens. The conversation delves into the importance of listening to God and others, the role of emotions in understanding God's love, and the upcoming Constant Connection conference aimed at fostering a deeper relationship with God. Mako emphasizes the need for community practices that embody the gospel and invites listeners to explore resources on early Christian theology to enrich their faith journey. -- Mako Nagasawa Bio Mako Nagasawa is the founder and executive director of The Anástasis Center, a center for Christian Education and Ministry, committed to proclaiming the restorative justice of God, the healing atonement of Jesus. Mako lives with his family in Dorchester, MA, as part of an intentional community house. Before launching The Anastasis Center, Mako served with Intervarsity Christian Fellowship for 13 years and has degrees from Stanford University and Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Seminary. -- Links:  https://www.anastasiscenter.org/ www.futureoffaith.org #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God  

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur engages with guests Sue Park-Hur and Katerina Gea to explore the sacredness of listening within the context of faith and community. They discuss the importance of listening as a relational practice, its role in reconciliation and peacemaking, and share personal stories and communal practices that enhance the art of listening. The conversation emphasizes the need for intentional listening in a world filled with distractions and divisions, highlighting resources and practices that can help individuals and communities cultivate deeper listening skills. -- Bios: Sue Park-Hur Bio: Sue is a Korean American born in Seoul, but raised in the foothills of the San Gabriel Valley in southern California since she was eight. A former church-planter and local pastor with her spouse, Sue has continued to believe churches can be agents of reconciliation in their communities.  She currently serves as the director of racial/ethnic engagement for Mennonite Church USA and co-directs a peace center, ReconciliAsian.  Her specialization includes intercultural competency, anti- racism, trauma and resilience, restorative justice, conflict transformation, mentorship, and women in leadership. Katerina Gea Bio: Katerina Gea (pronounced “Hey-ya”) is the lead pastor of Pasadena Mennonite Church and lives in Pasadena, CA. She is a gardener, aspiring poet, and a new mom to a 7 month old who keeps her on her toes! Before pastoring, she worked alongside incarcerated people to grow healing gardens behind bars and planted “Wild Church, Fresno,” a church that gathers outdoors to reconnect with God and creation. Katerina serves as an adjunct professor with Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary, where she received her M.Div. in Theology and Peace Studies. She is part of the Mennonite Church USA’s Women in Leadership team along with Sue Park-Hur. -- Links:  https://pasadenamennonite.org/ https://www.reconciliasian.org/   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God

In this episode of the Future of Faith podcast, host Greg Arthur interviews co-founder Josh Packard about his new book, 'Faithful Futures.' They discuss the importance of listening in ministry, the challenges of understanding generational differences, and how listening can enhance faith formation. Josh shares insights from his research on youth and emphasizes the need for relational ministry in today's diverse world. The conversation highlights the value of being present and listening to young people's experiences as a way to affirm their identity and foster deeper connections. -- Josh Packard Bio: Josh Packard, Ph.D., is  one of the foremost experts in the spiritual lives of modern American youth and an accomplished researcher in the sociology of religion and new forms of religious expression. He has authored numerous books and articles in both popular and academic outlets. His most recent publication is "Faithful Futures: Sacred Tools for Engaging Younger Generations" and can be found www.faithfulfuturesbook.com. -- Links: www.futureoffaith.org www.faithfulfuturesbook.com   #futureoffaith #listeningissacred #church #ministry #listening #pastors #clergy #religion #spirituality #congregations #faith #God