In this episode, theologian Ted Smith explores the transformation of denominations in the United States, moving from broad structures to more specialized affinity groups. The shift is driven by societal changes, leading to more homogeneous and smaller denominations. Smith highlights advantages like reduced conflict, clearer paths to ordination, and…

In this solo episode, Dennis looks at the first Presidential debate and the tendency in American politics to see our presidential candidates as saviors. Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/churchandmain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/churchandmainpod/ Threads: ht…

The 226th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA) is set to meet soon in Salt Lake City. One of the many issues to be discussed is a proposal called the "Olympia Overture," which would formally prohibit discrimination against LGBTQ Presbyterians, but could according to some make it hard for those with different theological interpretations…

What happens when a historic denomination faces a seismic shift? Join us as Drew McIntyre, our returning Methodist guest, unpacks the significant developments from the recent United Methodist General Conference in Charlotte. We explore the groundbreaking rescinding of language that restricted LGBTQ clergy and marriages, and Drew offers keen insight…

We tend to think Evangelicals helped create Christian Nationalism, but did Mainline Protestantism have a role? I sat down with Beau Underwood, co-author of "Baptizing America: How Mainline Protestants Helped to Build Christian Nationalism," to explore the historical roots and contemporary impact of Christian nationalism in America. Beau talks about…

In this episode, I revisit a video from early 2023 with Lutheran Deacon Nina Joygaard where she interviews me on how to do spiritual practices as someone with autism and ADHD. Prayer Lab Minute on the Road Interview with Deacon Nina Donate: Venmo- @churchandmainpod |TipTopJar- https://tiptopjar.com/electricparson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/…

In this episode, I welcome back Steve Thomason, an Associate Professor for Spiritual Formation and Discipleship at Luther Seminary. Steve shares insights on enriching your spiritual journey through practices like prayer, silence, and community. He addresses overcoming barriers to spiritual practices in today's world and discusses adaptations for th…

In this episode, we explore the intersection of faith and food, featuring the inspiring journey of former pastor and sous chef, Andrew Camp. The podcast highlights how food connects spirituality and community, discussing Andrew's upbringing, culinary education, and integration of faith with his culinary passion. His decision to pursue a career as a…

In this episode, I talk to Joshua Gritter, who is the co-lead pastor along with his wife Lara at First Presbyterian Church in Salisbury, NC. We talk about his article in Presbyterian Outlook “Anxiety, politics, and the lost mysticism of the church,” where he talks about how we Christians in the US have placed their faith in politics and "electing a…

In this "shorts" episode we look at a 2023 interview with Lutheran pastor Seth Perry . Seth candidly discusses his journey living with bipolar disorder, overcoming stigma, and rediscovering his faith after getting sober. He shares his struggle to disclose his diagnosis due to fear of judgment in the church and societal stereotypes about bipolar ind…

Ever since January 6, 2021 we’ve heard the term Christian Nationalism. There have been news stories, articles, books and podcasts all focused on the threat of Christian Nationalism to democracy. Christians of all stripes have come out against it and denominations have passed resolutions condemning it. Christian nationalism is a concern. And yet, ar…

It's common these days to focus on the drawbacks of church. But what's good about church? Theologian and pastor Anthony Robinson joins me on the podcast to talk about his most recent blog post on the positive aspects of the church in our society. Robinson highlights the importance of institutions and how the church can provide a sense of community,…

In this bonus episode, I revisit an interview with Joy Moore, a professor of biblical preaching at Luther Seminary. We discussed reconciliation amid societal divisions. Moore shares stories illustrating the challenges of reconciliation and stresses the importance of finding common ground across racial divides. referencing instances like Ann Atwater…

In this episode, I delve into the essence of the podcast and the current state of mainline Protestantism. I share my journey of self-discovery in launching the podcast and reflect on the challenges facing mainline Protestantism, emphasizing the importance of diversity of thought as much as visual diversity. I advocate for reform within the church, …

Can artificial intelligence hold its own when it comes to the soul-stirring task of crafting spiritual materials? Guest Jeremy Wilhelmi and I embark on an enthralling discussion on the intersection of AI and pastoral ministry. We delve into Jeremy's experiment that tests AI's ability to compose benedictions, prompting us to reflect on whether a mac…

Ever wondered how churches can sustain their missions in a world where the traditional offering plate falls short? The financial fabric that supports our churches is undergoing a radical makeover. This episode isn't just about recounting struggles; it's a treasure trove of inventive solutions, from the entrepreneurial spirit of minority and immigra…

In this clip from a conversation from January 2024, Loren Richmond Jr. voices concerns about diminishing appreciation for the sacredness embodied in church facilities, particularly within certain evangelical circles where traditional architectural norms are eschewed. Referencing the insights of theologians such as Andrew Root and Charles Taylor, he…

Could your vote be an act of pure democratic expression or merely a move in a complex game of strategic power? Grapple with the profound implications of casting a ballot as I'm joined by Brian McGraw, an associate professor at Wheaton College, to navigate the treacherous waters of sincere versus strategic voting. We dissect the impact of a polarize…

Welcome to a Bonus episode that is part of a series called "Church and Main Shorts," snippets from recent episodes. In an interview from December 2023, Paul Moore on fostering growth within mainline churches. Moore discusses the challenges faced by denominations in embracing change and the importance of shifting mindsets towards growth. He emphasiz…

Amidst a climate of political upheaval and social unrest, the church's mission has never been more critical. In today's conversation with Pastor David Emery, we confront the tough questions of unity and division, exploring how the church can become a beacon of hope and understanding in a world marked by stark lines in the sand. He shares his commit…

It's been a while since Dennis has done a solo episode. In this solo pod, he focuses on how we should love Trump supporters as Jesus called us to love our enemies and how this might defeat the former President at the ballot box. Why We Might Want to Listen to Trump Supporters Still More Thoughts on Talking to Trump Supporters Lectionary Q Podcast M…

In this episode, host Dennis Sanders interviews Professor Joy J. Moore about the divisiveness in society and the church, the temptation to make a name for ourselves, and the idolatry of politics. They also discuss the lack of focus on racial reconciliation and the need for grace and humility in the process. The conversation highlights the importanc…

So, in this latest chat I had on the podcast, I got to hang out with Kirby Gould of the Christian Church Foundation, and we really dug into what it means to be good stewards in our church communities. We chatted about how different generations think about giving, took a peek back at the Greek origins of the whole stewardship concept, and highlighte…

Guest Jeffrey Tyler Syck dives into the multifaceted world of American conservatism. He and Dennis unpack the nuances of traditional, national, and humanist conservatism, examining the influence of faith on these ideologies. Tyler discusses the decline of humanist conservatism and its potential resurgence, considering the role of churches in foster…

So, in this latest chat on "Church and Main," I got to hang out with frequent guest Reverend Frederick Schmidt. We dove into how people tend to oversimplify the whole Israeli-Palestinian situation. We're all about getting into the nitty-gritty and understanding the full picture, especially the parts that don't get enough attention, like the real-li…

The sight of former President Jimmy Carter at his wife's funeral gave a lesson in what it means to be actively dying, even if the lesson was lost on those commenting on social media. In this episode, frequent guest Andrew Donaldson joins the show as he and Dennis talk about death and dying as well as being caregivers to their parents following heal…

This episode originally aired January 5, 2022. On the three-year anniversary of January 6, 2021, and at the start of a momentous presidential election year, Dennis reflects on the day and the American future in three acts with fellow podcaster and writer Andrew Donaldson. Heard Tell with Andrew Donaldson Lectionary Q Podcast Make a Donation: https:…

It's quite common for people to say that the church isn't a building, but a people - and this is true. But that doesn't mean that church buildings are without any meaning. Loren Richmond Jr. returns to the podcast to talk about his summer project taking pictures and learning the history of church buildings in his hometown of Denver and how this pas…

In this episode, I look back at the 10 most memorable episodes of 2023. This isn’t a countdown to number one, but a look back at some of the most meaningful episodes of the year. I will also look forward to what I hope to be doing in 2024. At the end of the year, I want to say thanks to everyone who has downloaded an episode, shared an episode with…

Note: This podcast originally aired on December 8, 2021. Black Lives Matter. Those three words have launched a million arguments over the last 8 years or so. What began as a hashtag in the wake of the killing of young black men by the police has become a phrase that has gone global and all the while it has been controversial. Some think it is exclu…

Mainline Protestant congregations have faced decline over several decades. Can these churches grow again and also hold fast to their commitment to social justice? Paul Moore a pastor of a Presbyterian Church (USA) Congregation in the suburban Twin Cities, MN believes the answer is yes and is practicing what he believes. In this episode, we talk abo…

One solution to solving the affordable housing and homelessness crisis is for churches to have an active role in providing space for housing. Another church that I am aware of in Minneapolis sold their property to another housing nonprofit that will build affordable housing and also create a worship space for the congregation. I talked to a pastor …

This episode originally aired on December 2, 2021. Peace Lutheran Church is a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America located in the small town of Lauderdale which sits between Minneapolis and St. Paul. When Pastor Dave Greenlund was asked to pastor the congregation, the Synod office thought he might be a hospice pastor who would…

Over the last few years, I started to hear a new phrase one that might be new to you as well: side hustle. A side hustle is a way to make money in addition to your full-time or part-time job. It’s also a way to explore a new career. Side hustles can be a way for folk in lower paying jobs, like, I dunno being a pastor in a congregation, to earn some…

(Originally Broadcast in December 2021.) I’ve known Geoffrey Kabaservice since we were both writers for David Frum’s news site, Frum Forum. Today Geoffrey is the Vice President of Political Studies at the Niskanen Center and host of the Vital Center Podcast. He’s an author, especially in for our purposes of the book Rule and Ruin: The Downfall of M…

In this episode, guest Reverend Todd Stavrakos discusses the stance of mainline churches on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They talk about the lack of nuance in these stances and their impact on relations with the Jewish community. Stavrakos criticizes the one-sided focus on Israel's actions, the failure to condemn terrorist organizations, the i…

Thousands of churches closed their doors and ceased active ministry every year bringing to an end decades of active ministry. But can a church come back from the dead and start again? In this episode, we talk to Anglican priest Grayhame Bowcott about the rebirth of St. Annes church in rural Ontario, Canada that went from “six very miserable Anglica…

As the sun rose on October 7th, the tranquility of southern Israel was shattered by an act of terror, by the terrorist group Hamas, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many, including my guest, Rabbi Brad Hirschfield. Our heartfelt discussion traverses the rugged terrain of conflict, weaving through the emotional ties that bind Rabbi Hirschf…

Can TikTok be more than a platform to lip-synch Taylor Swift songs? Can it actually foster online faith communities? For Presbyterian pastor Beth Peerbolte the answer is an emphatic yes. Over the last few years, she’s developed OurTapestry, an online faith community she started to provide a presence in what she calls “spiritual deserts” especially …

In this podcast episode, Dennis chats with Nicholas Tangen, the Director for Faith Practices and Neighboring Practices for the Minneapolis Area Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. They discuss community engagement and the intersection of faith and neighboring practices in congregations. Tangen emphasizes the importance of relationa…

In this solo episode, Dennis shares thoughts on a topic that has been resonating with many of us in the ministry: the Great Pastor Resignation. Dennis reads his response to an article written by Alexander Lang, a former Presbyterian pastor who made the difficult decision to leave the ministry. Lang's article is not the first of its kind, but it has…

In this episode, we hear from Laura Cottington, a lay leader and co-founder of Saint Michael Community Church in Saint Michael, Minnesota. She discusses the challenges and strategies of church planting, particularly in a changing landscape where traditional methods may not be as effective. Laura shares her experiences and insights on starting a chu…

This is a joint episode with Loren Richmond Jr. host of the Future Christian podcast. In this special episode recorded live from the General Assembly of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Loren Richmond Jr is joined by guest Dennis Sanders to delve into the current state of the denomination and the unique challenges faced by local congrega…

In this episode of Church and Main, we discuss the schism within the United Methodist Church regarding homosexuality. Lead pastor Ben Gosden shares insights on the messy breakup, especially within his home Annual Conference, but also highlights the resilience and determination within the smaller, yet vibrant, conference and denomination. We explore…

Hey there! In this podcast episode, I'm gonna talk about two meetings I attended in my denomination, the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), where we discussed the role of LGBTQ folks in the church. It's a pretty important topic, and we gotta grapple with it based on what the Bible says, while also honoring people's personal experiences. I gott…

In this episode, I chat with Loren Richmond Jr. host of the Future Christian Podcast about some of the major news taking place in June including Sports and Pride Month, Race Relations and DEI and the Southern Baptist Convention kicking out churches for allowing women pastors. Future Christian Podcast (Loren’s Podcast) Forgiveness In Black and White…

The Second Coming. Armageddon. The End Times. Since its beginning at Pentecost, Christians have long wondered if and when Christ would return as promised in the Bible. Books and movies have all wondered: when is Jesus coming back? But what are Christians to think about all of this, especially Mainline Protestants? Some are dismissive, but many peop…

There is a slew of new interviews coming down the pike, but in the meantime, I want to share this episode as LGBTQ Pride Month comes to a close. What does Pride mean? Pride is considered one of the seven deadly sins, so what does it mean to be proud of being LGBTQ? In what was originally a Vespers video from 2022, I shared what I’ve learned and sha…

Mainline Protestant churches haven’t always done a good job of focusing on the role the Holy Spirit plays in the life of our churches and that’s a shame because the Holy Spirit is what makes church more than just a social club that meets on Sunday mornings. In this episode, I am honored to have Juan Sarmiento as my guest. A native of Venezuela and …

Here is the second of two solo episodes out this week. Filmed last week at the end of a very strange day, Dennis reflects on being the pastor of a small church and why these churches matter, especially in Mainline Protestantism. A new interview episode should be available this coming Monday or Tuesday. Stay tuned! Why Small Churches Matter (origina…