South to America

In this episode of South to America, Kendall & Erin Dooley sit down with Rev. Breana van Velzen—a powerful voice in the intersection of faith, justice, and cultural memory—for an inspiring conversation on formation, decolonizing theology, and the sacred responsibility of community storytelling.With deep roots in southeastern North Carolina and a rich journey that includes time at Duke Divinity, Neighborhood Ministries in Phoenix, and her current work with Durham Congregations in Action, Rev. Bre shares how her multiethnic identity, lived experiences of poverty, and communal upbringing shaped her call to ministry.The conversation explores womanist theology, the violent undercurrents of dominant atonement narratives, and the liberating power of theology grounded in love, land, and liberation. Breana also sheds light on the Indigenous history embedded in Durham’s soil, how sacred sites like Stagville Plantation carry stories of both trauma and resilience, and what it means to live into a theology that refuses empire.What does it mean to hold faith for one another when belief feels impossible? How do our ancestral histories—and the land itself—call us into radical responsibility? And how can cities like Durham serve as teachers for the rest of the nation on truth-telling, belonging, and mutual care?This episode is a conversation on spiritual depth, historical consciousness, and the fierce, compassionate work of reimagining the world as it should be. Read the TranscriptJoin Our Support TeamFollow Us on Instagram

In this episode of South to America, Kendall & Erin Dooley sits down with Reverend Dr. Carl Kenney, a seasoned pastor, journalist, and social critic, for a thought-provoking conversation on faith, power, and the evolving role of the Black church. With over 40 years of ministry experience, Dr. Kenney reflects on his journey, the contradictions of faith communities, and the theological shifts needed to foster justice and liberation.The discussion delves into the intersections of theology and anthropology, theologies that perpetuate violence, and the necessity of reimagining faith as a practice of freedom rather than coercion. Dr. Kenney also shares powerful stories of activism in Durham, from confronting police presence in sacred spaces to reclaiming the legacy of Black self-sufficiency in historic communities like Hayti.What does it mean to be truly free? How do our theological frameworks shape the way we love, resist, and build community? And what can Durham teach the rest of the country about transformation? This episode offers deep insights, hard truths, and an invitation to think critically about faith and social change. Read the TranscriptJoin Our Support Team⁠⁠Follow Us on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Reynolds Chapman, Executive Director of DurhamCares, to explore what it means to truly love your neighbor. Reynolds shares his journey from small-town Connecticut to Durham, North Carolina, where his experiences at Duke Divinity School and with the Christian Community Development Association shaped his commitment to justice-rooted ministry.We dive into the story of DurhamCares, its innovative Durham Pilgrimage of Pain and Hope, and how the organization helps churches and residents learn the sacred story of their place—connecting Durham’s history of racial and economic injustice to the ongoing work of reconciliation and beloved community.Reynolds also reflects on the deep impact of community elders, the legacy of Dr. Keith Daniel, and how place-based discipleship continues to shape his faith and vocation. This conversation is a powerful reminder that local history matters to God, and that loving your neighbor requires knowing their story—and your own. Read the TranscriptJoin Our Support Team⁠⁠Follow Us on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with David Crispell, co-founder and executive director of Jubilee Home, to discuss his work in Durham’s historic Hayti District. David shares his journey into community development, the power of relationships in transformative justice, and the lessons he's learned from the resilience of those often overlooked. We explore how Jubilee Home provides supportive housing for individuals with justice involvement, the challenges of gentrification, and the importance of preserving Hayti’s history amidst rapid urban change. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the sacredness of place, the necessity of listening, and the radical hospitality that shapes meaningful community work. Read the Transcript Join Our Support Team⁠⁠Follow Us on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Keith Daniel, a leader whose work bridges faith, economic development, and community building in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Daniel shares his personal journey—growing up in Black spaces in D.C., returning to Durham for college at Duke, and finding his calling in Christian Community Development.We explore his leadership in Resilient Ventures, a committed capital fund investing in Black founders, and discuss the tension between economic growth and justice, the role of faith in social transformation, and the importance of redefining wealth beyond money. Dr. Daniel also offers wisdom on the power of community, the lessons of the Black church, and why listening is the first step in meaningful change.Read the TracriptJoin Our Support Team⁠⁠Follow Us on Instagram

In this episode, we sit down with Bishop Clarence Laney, the Senior Pastor of Monument of Faith Church and a pivotal voice in Durham’s faith and community landscape. Bishop Laney shares the story of his personal journey, the transformative work Monument of Faith is doing in the neighborhood, and the church’s decision to become an affirming space for all people.We delve into the rich traditions of the Black Church, the challenges it faces in staying relevant, and how Monument of Faith is shaping its theology to meet the needs of its congregation. Bishop Laney also opens up about his hopes and dreams for the church and the people of Durham, offering powerful reflections on the role of faith in fostering justice, equity, and belonging. Read the TranscriptJoin Our Support Team⁠⁠Follow Us on Instagram