Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Common Threads: An Interfaith Dialogue

I liken this new book entitled "Boond" to the classic "Little Prince." That is, while it may have a certain childlike charm, it is not really a children's book. This is a tale of the Divine Quest. Boond is Sanskrit for "drop," as in a drop of water. And that is exactly what the star of our story is: an anthropomorphic drop of water. We rarely feature books of fiction on Common Threads, but we made an exception here due to the intelligence, wit and whimsy contained in this tale. It really could be called a modern day myth. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

Growing up in an Italian-American family, I was introduced to Malocchio (the Evil Eye) at a young age. I loved having this eccentric idea as part of my heritage. For centuries, some cultures have been able to accommodate both their Christian traditions along with various elements of folk magic, esoteric healing and what has come to be known as "witchcraft." Italy is no exception. Angela Puca is about the most perfect person to discuss these issues with. She was raised in Naples and has advanced degrees in Religious Studies. In her research she was able to gain the confidence of many folk magic practitioners who are no longer living in seclusion in tiny rural Italian villages. Theme music "Nigal."

Over the years we've had many discussions on human sexuality and spirituality, including religion's response to homosexuality. As of late, Pope Francis has been making headlines and encouraging controversy with his recent declaration that gives permission to priests to bless gay couples. While many have accused the pontiff of opening the door to a future that endorses same-sex marriage, allies are insisting that this is not the case. The issue here is quite technical and nuanced. To unravel it all we called upon Ryan Di Corpo, a protege of Fr. James Martin (an advocate encouraging dialogue on this issue who has appeared on Common Threads several times). Ryan has a great understanding of the history of how the Church has dealt with this hot-button topic and where they may go from here. Ryan Di Corpo is the managing editor of Outreach. A former Joseph A. O’Hare, S.J., fellow at America, his work has appeared in The Washington Post, Boston College Magazine, The Emancipator and elsewhere. He holds a B.A. in film from Fordham University and an M.A. in journalism from Northeastern University, in Boston. He has been interviewed by several outlets, including Newsweek, the National Catholic Reporter and The Washington Times. He is originally from Massachusetts. Theme music "Nigal."

I think these conversations were 1st broadcast in September of 2002. My guess is that this was the initial investigation into Pagan movements that we ever did on Common Threads. A Pagan Pride festival was soon to be held, so we used this to promote the event. As always, please note that websites, phone numbers, etc., have no bearing today. But I hope you enjoy this. Theme music "Nigal."

OK, this was funny. I interviewed Mary a year or 2 before these episodes from 2005 on her experience as a Baptist studying Judaism. When we reconnect for these broadcasts she tells me that at some point during the process of her studying Sufism, she converts to Judaism. But the book was written (as I recall) while she was still a Christian. So all during my line of questioning I have to treat her like a Christian, even though she confided to me about her conversion. I hope I'm clear. Regardless of all that, I did enjoy our discussions. I expect you will too. Oh, Mary Blye Howe is now Mary Blye Keller. She switched more than religions, I guess. Theme music "Nigal."

These episodes are a bit of a mystery in terms of chronology. I can't recall when these aired, but am pretty sure that would have happened between 2000-2005. I do remember that someone put me in touch with this very sweet man, Fridoon Rahimi. A dedicated Baha'i, he took on a personal mission of transmitting a sense of morality and character. Timely now as then.
Enjoy.

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These shows are follow-ups to Episode #192 of this podcast series. Our guests for these weeks in 2000 were authors Sharan Newman & Caroline Roe. As with our guest previously, these women were here in Grand Rapids for the annual Historical Fiction Conference in Kalamazoo, which has been in existence for almost 50 years. Thanks to a dear friend (Jo Ellyn Clarey) who suggested these 2 very interesting people to join us. Theme music "Nigal."

While I do respect the power, history & impact of all religions. I have to admit that I have a very hard time with the concept of Hell as it is portrayed in Christian and Muslim theology. Others may have similar dark afterlife regions, but often there is the option of redemption in the future. Well, one of my favorite guests over the years, Brian McLaren, wrote a book that came out in 2005 called "The Last Word & the Word After That." He's certainly not the 1st Christian leader to question perdition, but the fact that he identifies as Evangelical Christian makes him rare. I loved these conversations. Theme music "Nigal."

The book this was based on was impressive. As I say in the intro, I had no idea it would be so....well, sassy. Selema Addul Gafoor collects essays from various American Muslim women that explores behavior that would result in severe physical punishment if discovered in some Islamist societies. There is a lot of stereotype-busting ammo here. These 2005 episodes were really enlightening. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

Over the years I've hosted my cousin Tom Stella several times. If you scroll down all the episodes here I think you'll find him 2 or 3 times. Well, as I continue to dig through all these old cassettes that I'm digitizing, lo & behold, I find the very 1st shows we recorded. At this time, in 2000, Tom had his 1st book in mind. The working title was The Essence of Us. When it finally hit print it became The God Instinct. Keep in mind that all contact information is probably not valid today. This was a lot of fun to do. I'm very pleased that these episodes were saved. Theme music "Nigal."

These episodes aired circa 2002. Our guest for these was a man I truly admired & loved. Swami Yogeshananda was a dear soul who lived a simple life, and attempted to open up the lines of communication that would facilitate deep dialogue. He was greatly instrumental in the seminal days of Interfaith Dialogue Association, a few years before my time.
As you'll hear, we kinda sorta stole the name of our show from him.

Swami spent many years at a Hindu Ashram in Ganges, Michigan. Yes, Virginia. There is a town called Ganges in Michigan, and there is a Hindu ashram there (Vivekananda Monastery). Later on Swami moved to Atlanta. In the last few years we did lose touch. I just found that he passed away in 2019. He always was moving toward The Light.

In these conversations we discuss the basics of Advaita Vedanta, the Hindu philosophy of Absolute Oneness. It's a hefty subject that Yogeshananda is able to explain better than most in terms most can understand.

Do listen to this blessed soul.

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I remember really enjoying this 2006 conversation in 2 parts with Carolyn Osiek, a coauthor of this book. It really makes a great case for increasing the amount of authority that should be invested in women.

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These episodes from 2007 include an extended conversation with Mark Kurlansky about his book on nonviolence. I won't take up your eyeball time with much here other than to say that the author really did his homework. I hope you listen. Theme music "Nigal."

For centuries, Judeo-Christian culture has held a place for the more esoteric elements of spirituality. These would include alchemy, magic, astrology, mysticism and more. Most western religions reject them now as superstitious, or even dangerous. But several millennia ago, the practitioners of these arts (as they were classified then) were members in good standing of their churches, synagogues and mosques. In this episode, Fred discusses the subject "Esoterica" with a man who has a Ph. D in the subject: Justin Sledge. Theme music "Nigal."

As I state in my introduction, this is a remarkable book in that while it does strongly argue from a theist's viewpoint, it gives the other side a great deal of respect. Author Scott Shay has no problem giving credit where it's due when secularists express concern about the behavior of those who claim to be monotheists. The book is written in a style that will appeal to hard core academics & theologians, as well as the less wonky. Scott comes from a Jewish perspective, but I'm sure Christians & Muslims will appreciate this as well. I will say that his superficial understanding of Dharmic faiths doesn't do them justice, but if he did the book might be twice the size. Really, give a listen to these episodes that aired in 2021. Theme music "Nigal."

One of the great things about the USA is our tradition of the road trip. Not just because we can get from one place to another with relative ease, but as we zoom through many parts of rural America we are able to observe many expressions of our quirky side. Case in point: Route 66. I've loved my time on what is left of the Mother Road. And what makes this special are the oddities and brilliant examples of human ingenuity. In his book Roadside Religion, Tim Beal shares with us his journey across the country as he records his experiences with organic displays of religious piety. Most of the time I have no problem that this is pure radio with no video. Here, I do wish otherwise. 1st aired in 2005. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

I would venture to say that most Catholics have no idea that there is an Eastern Rite wing of their own church. That is, there are churches in North American & Europe that if a Catholic should enter, he would assume is Orthodox. So much of the ritual would be the same. Actually, an Orthodox Christian might feel more at home in such a church. But in this case, said church is 100% Catholic, fully in communion with Rome. These congregations observe many of the traditions of Orthodoxy. Priests can marry, iconography is important, and Sunday services are not called Masses, but Divine Liturgies. I don't recall what year these episodes aired, but certainly within the 1st few years of this century. The guests are Fr.Michael Bliszcz from St. Michael's Church in Grand Rapids, MI and Prof. Robert Marko, who at the time taught Religion at Aquinas College. I recall enjoying my conversations with these gentlemen. And I learned a lot. Theme music "Nigal."

Do know that I get all sorts of people who reach out to appear on Common Threads. When it comes to subjects concerning spirituality & health I'm very circumspect. There is a lot of nonsense floating out there. But this particular guest (Dr. Bruce Lipton) really has a lot of data to back him up. These episodes aired in 2006. I hope this makes an impact. Theme music "Nigal."

If you've to enough episodes in our vault you've come across a few that feature Swami Bodhanada. The fact that he has an ashram about an hour from Grand Rapids always made him accessible. But what really makes him special is the width & breadth of his knowledge of Hinduism. He is able to define the nooks & crannies of it better than many, especially to people for whom this is new territory. These episodes originally aired in 2008. Theme music "Nigal."

Just a few episodes back we posted a couple of episodes entitled "Gnostic Yoga." I really wasn't thrilled with the scholarship behind the research our guest accomplished. So, I think we are redeeming ourselves this time. In 2003 we aired these interviews with Dr. Karen King, a very respected academic with a keen interest in the so called Gnostic Gospels. In these conversations Dr. King & I discuss the Gospel of Mary of Magdala. I highly recommend this one. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

If you have perused our vast collection of shows you may recall coming upon a few episodes promoting Grand Dialogue. That is a an (almost) annual event here in Grand Rapids. It's a conference that focuses on Science & Religion. I just found these episodes, & recall that this particular conference was one of my favorites. The year was 2009. The keynote speaker was Brian Malley. And his topic was a fascinating one: Just why do we believe in gods, goddesses, higher powers, transcendence... You can't not listen. I won't let you. Theme music "Nigal."

Full disclosure: Sometimes I do interviews as favors. One of the challenges of hosting this program is that over the years I've gotten so many requests to profile certain people, events, etc. that in my heart of hearts I know will have little interest to our listeners. Well, folks, this is an example of that. At the time we had a few Christian Scientists who were active in local interfaith programs. They were nice people, so when they came to me really excited that this speaker was coming to town, & asked me to interview her to promote her lecture, I said yes. Dang. If you don't listen to this I won't feel hurt. And you can FF the 1st 5 minutes when I spend it giving all the details of Ms. Fife's appearance locally. This is from 2001. I was just getting my mojo. Oh, another thing...for some reason the sound quality is really poor. Another excuse for you to skip right over. I am better at saying no to requests, by the way. But I have to admit that there have been a few times when I said yes to a suggestion & expected a stinker, but was greatly surprised with an excellent conversation. Ya never know. Theme music "Nigal."

Listening to these 2007 episodes was enjoyable Clearly, some of these stand up to time better than others. In these conversations I speak with Erik Kolbell from Riverside Church in NYC. If you're not aware, Riverside has been sort of the flagship for American liberal congregations. And it's not too hard to spot a liberal Christian. They are the ones focusing on the beatitudes (the social gospel) as opposed to salvation, the main issue with conservatives. Do check this out. I think you'll like where we take things. Theme music "Nigal."

I'm guessing that these episodes aired around 2003 or so. Not certain. Anyway, they were interesting conversations. But if you listen to me talk about our guest's various initiations and positions it sounds a bit overwhelming. I admit that I'm a bit skeptical about people who dip their toes in SO many spiritual traditions. But know that this is a personal bias. Judge for yourself. The thing that I find interesting is that he had multiple goals in establishing ministries to cater to those seeking more esoteric paths. It seems that nothing he offers here every panned out. In posting these old shows I often check the web to see where they are these days. My searches for John show almost nothing. And what I do see is all from the early 2000s. Do keep this in mind when listening. None of the websites he offers is active. To be clear, I am very interested in Gnostic teachings. You'll find other programs in our collection of shows that I think are more informative. Theme music "Nigal."

Rabbi David Krishef & I have been friends & colleagues for years. We've had him on before to discuss a fascinating event in his life several years ago. We're having him on again, this time to discuss a remarkable new book of his. If you are a fan of the poetry of the Psalms, I think you'll find this compelling. Theme music "Nigal."

Boy, do I remember these. Ruth Tucker (our guest) is an interesting kinda lady. Case in point: Way back in 2002 when we aired these, someone on our team made contact with her via phone to set up a recording date. In conversation he happened to mention that he was born Christian, but now adheres to another religion. She just went ballistic on him. Now, I don't mean that she yelled or screamed, but according to him she was just relentless about rejoining the fold. And this is a guy who took his faith very seriously. From what I recall, the call ended civilly and we proceeded. But what you'll hear in these episodes is Ruth discussing her book "Walking Away From Faith." It details the spiritual journeys of those who left Christianity for Atheism. She does not investigate Christians who moved to other religions. But she really exposes herself honestly as one who regularly struggles with faith herself. Upon listening to this 20 year hence I find it interesting that both of us use "homosexual" to describe people rather than orientation. back then it was not much of an issue. Also, I'd love to know if she would refer to homosexuality as a sin if we were to speak to her today. She seems sympathetic to gays, but it is clear that for her heterosexuality was a moral imperative. By the way, as much as Dr. Tucker & I disagree on most things theological, the school where she taught (Calvin Seminary here in Grand Rapids) treated her just horribly. You can find out more at www.ruthtucker.com if you're so inclined. There you will also find out about her horrific journey from spousal abuse to healing. Theme music "Nigal."

I remember these conversations from 2007 quite well. Our guest David Miller is just a likeable kinda guy. And I found much to work with in this subject matter. Just how do we navigate a multi-faith (& non-faith) environment in the office, factory, field, etc.? I can't think of much else to tell you, other than listen, goldarnit! Theme music "Nigal."

I remember the 1st time Tibetan monks came to Grand Rapids, MI in the 1990s.for a series of lectures, meditations & rituals. The whole community was intrigued, and it made our local TV news. They started happening more frequently, so they got less attention. But every time they did visit us they brought great blessings. These episodes are from sometime in the early 2000s. Not only do we speak with Lama Kelsang here, but a young woman who married an ex-monk. Great exchange of ideas. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

Just a few episodes ago we introduced you to the Interfaith Alliance from a couple of conversations we had back in the early 2000s. Well, I just found an old cassette with 2 more episodes that aired a year or so later. Not sure if you're going to learn anything new, but here it is. Again, please ignore any contact information given. There is no longer a West Michigan chapter of IA, but they still have a presence. You can follow up at www.interfaithalliance.org if you wish. Theme music "Nigal."

I have to admit that when I 1st heard about this book I was concerned that it was a treatise on successful conversion practices. Turns out that it was nothing of the kind. Author Mary Blye Howe (now Keller) shares her journey as she discovered the wisdom of Judaism, allowing it to compliment her devout Christian practice. Along the way she gathered some great friends. These episodes from 2003 might inspire other Christians like Mary to explore the religion that became the foundation of their own faith. However, sometime after this book came out I had another conversation with Mary. Turns out she could not resist the call of the shofar, and did convert to Judaism. Not only that, today she is an ordained rabbi. You will enjoy these these. I promise Theme music "Nigal."

If you scroll through the hundreds of episodes already up you'll find a couple dedicated to exploring Orthodox Christianity that were aired within the last couple of years. In discovering this recent treasure trove of old cassettes I found 2 episodes from the early 2000s that covered some of the same territory. But I think they are still worthwhile. My guests were 2 priests from Grand Rapids churches. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

I love well researched historical fiction. Most folks I know do as well. It occurred to a historian friend of mine that Common Threads might enjoy an interview with an author in such a genre. Obviously, any story that takes place in medieval Europe is going to be heavily influenced by the Christian church. This turned out to be a perfect fit. Author Margaret Frazer wrote a series of stories revolving around a detective-cum-nun that was quite popular, and very true to the time, Sr. Frevisse. These shows aired in 2003. Margaret died in 2013. I'm grateful we had these conversations. Here are 2 episodes Theme music "Nigal."

John D. Crossan

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OK, OK! Maybe not THAT ISIS. This is pretty funny, not to mention ironic. As I'm going through all these ancient programs from the early years (these are probably 2002 or 03) I find a cassette that I don't recall. It turns out to be a couple of episodes featuring Syed Misra from The Institute for the Secularization of Islamic Society. You know...ISIS. Is that not a stitch! It's really a great conversation. Here is someone who was raised in the religion explaining his longstanding issues with the religion. He does say a few things that I would challenge him on if I interviewed him today. I mean, he talks about Muslim nations, claiming that there is no such thing as a Christian or Jewish nation. Really? Ever hear of Israel? But the point is still valid that even in Israel the law of the land is not right out of the Bible. As with many of these old shows, the contact information isn't accurate. While I can find information on ISIS online, I cannot find a functioning website. Theme music "Nigal."

OK Kids, this is one I found deep in the vault. I have no idea of the year, but I'm sure that these episodes aired around the turn of the century. Our guest was Harry Kooyman, who lived here in West Michigan. Just moments ago I pulled him up on Facebook. From the pictures it looks like he has moved to more tropical climes. You can tell it's an oldie but goodie due to the fact that when Harry gives his phone# he doesn't include the area code, & that his e-dress is with AOL. The organization Interfaith Alliance, which is a response to Right-Wing Christian orgs, is still in existence, but the website has changed to www.interfaithalliance.org, & there is no longer a West Michigan chapter. The closest is Chicago. But I'm putting it up here, as I really enjoyed the discussions, & support their mission. Theme music "Nigal."

A cynic might chalk this up to a bit of nepotism, but I would protest. Tom Stella, my cousin, has made more appearances on Common Threads than any other guest. But aside from the sharing of DNA, Tom continues to explore the deeper parts of spirituality in which so many find resonance. In these 2 episodes we discuss his latest book "Meditation for Mediocre Mystics." Tom was ordained a Catholic priest at Notre Dame in 1972; an event I'm pleased to say I witnessed. He currently serves as a chaplain, retreat leader, spiritual advisor and author. Oh, and he continues to marry and bury a good number of members in his large extended Italian-American family. I suspect you'll enjoy this. Theme music "Nigal."

I don't recall just when these episodes were broadcast, but I'm quite sure it would have been sometime between 2005-10. If you happen to be a Bible nerd I think you'll enjoy this. Our guest Andy Gaus is not a scholar in biblical languages. But he seems to make a serious case for his translation of the New Testament. Give a listen. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

In 2008 Calvin College hosted a weekend long event that celebrated plant based diets. They drew their inspiration from biblical teachings. Now, Calvin is a very conservative school, but there is a progressive undercurrent that runs through its faculty & student body.

Our guest in these episodes was a keynote speaker. Christine Gutleben is the Director of Faith Outreach at the Humane Society.  She makes a great argument for her movement. 

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As much as I enjoy sex (ahem...I mean discussing it academically, of course), I wouldn't have produced these episodes unless the subject matter was somehow related to religion/spirituality. And it turns out that this is a perfect fit. Our guest is Fr. Robert Francouer. Yes, that Fr. means Father. Robert is a Catholic priest. What does a Catholic priest really know about sex? Well, at least we know that he does have some 1st hand experience. You see, Fr. Francouer is a married Catholic priest. This is a really great couple of conversations. I hope you enjoy. Oh, I'm not 100% sure when we aired these, but 2001 is a good guess. Theme music "Nigal."

These episodes, from 2008, are conversations with Morgan Atkinson. He wrote the book & TV special "Soul Searching," an in-depth discovery of Thomas Merton and his pioneering spiritual work. Sometimes for the heck of it, I tune into EWTN, the hardcore conservative Catholic radio network. Recently on a call-in show someone asked a priest about Fr. Merton. One might guess that his take on Merton was less than favorable. While he is often regarded as a "patron saint" of the Catholic contemplative movement, there are many in the Church who would wish him to be excommunicated posthumously. But as you'll hear here, this was a flawed, but deeply spiritual giant. Theme music "Nigal."

Ray Suarez is one of my most favorite guests. I've been a major fan since he hosted "Talk of the Nation" on NPR back in the 90s. Is this interview dated? In a way, yes, because it was recorded in 2006. But how prescient it is. When it was broadcast GW Bush was in the White House. We did have to deal with the absurd religiosity that prompted him to make the decisions he did. But now we are still in the throes of some of the most dangerous theocratic movements we'll ever see in the post-Trump era. I often enjoy reading or listening to accounts of the past just to see how right or wrong the authors were in their assessments of situations. This is an excellent example. Theme music "Nigal."

These episodes are from 2008. Here I interview Dr. Rodney Stark from Baylor University. Interesting chap. One gets the impression that he doesn't suffer fools gladly...or easily. How much you wanna bet that his students call him Dr. Snark? Anyway, I did think he was quite engaging. A bit biased toward Christianity, but still, I enjoyed my time with him. We discuss his book "Discovering God." Theme music "Nigal."

Holy Moses! I had thought that I'd digitized all the cassette tapes of old Common Threads programs a few months ago. Now, I discover a whole shoe box filled to the brim with more. Now we start the process all over again. This little gem comes from 2007. IDA had partnered with a new org here in Grand Rapids called Grand Dialogue. Their mission is focused on the intersection of faith & science. Now both GD & IDA are affiliate orgs under the umbrella of Kaufman Interfaith Institute. These episodes are conversations with that year's keynote speaker. Philip Clayton, a professor with ties to Harvard, Cambridge and Claremont. His talk is on "Emergence." I hope I don't have to tell you to ignore any mentions of the conference itself, which happened over a decade ago. But the discussion is still worthwhile. Theme music "Nigal."

There is no question that one of the major game changer of the 20th century was Desmond Tutu. While I'd love to tell you that these episodes feature The Man himself, I am pleased to offer you a wonderful conversation with someone he mentored for decades. Rev. Michael Battles has patterned his life after this living saint. He is the author of a deeply moving spiritual biography of Bishop Tutu. Enjoy. Theme music "Nigal."

The Pew Survey on Religion in the USA is out now. I thought that I'd reach out to someone who could provide context & perspective on this. I happened upon an article online by Rev. Wes Granberg-Michaelson, who has roots here in West Michigan, that focuses on today's Christian population. He graciously agreed to join us in June of 2020. Soon up: Judaism in America. Theme music "Nigal."

In all of the years of Common Threads it seems like we have never really given The Devil his due. I mean, where would religion be without him? Our interview here in these 2021 episodes try to accomplish 2 things: We want to get a better understanding of the various versions of Satan/Lucifer that are exposed in the Bible. And then there is the rise of "devil worship" in modern American. Keep in mind that those who supposedly worship Satan don't really believe in him, but enjoy the furrowed brows of those religionists who do. This is really an excellent conversation. Join us. Theme music "Nigal."

Even though it's been over 40 years, the memory of Jonestown and the massacre that ended it still haunts the American psyche. Few realize that the number of Americans killed on that fateful day is the highest right under the Twin Tower attacks of 9/11. Since the initial reporting of the event, little attention has been paid to any Michigan connections. Recently, MLive reporter Cole Waterman learned of a small group of citizens from various parts of the state who did meet their end in Guyana. He decided to focus on the life and death of one person in particular--Shirlee Fields. In this episode we discuss how Jonestown fascinated Cole, who was not yet born when this all happened. And we get a glimpse of a hometown girl who grew up with a passion to fight social injustice, but was ultimately led into a toxic cult that belied the ideals she held so strongly. Here are the 2 episodes where we featured Cole. Theme music "Nigal."

I've known Kavita Pallod Sekhsaria for several years now. As long as I've known her she was working toward her PhD in Psychology, with the goal of focusing her efforts on offering treatment to those in her own spiritual community. One thing we can be proud of here in the west is that we have come such a long way over the years in allowing those who suffer from depression and other mental challenges to live with much less of a stigma than before. We're not perfect, but better. Well, the same cannot be said for Asian communities. One of Kavita's goals is to reverse that. Aired in 2021. Impressive ambition. Listen. Theme music "Nigal."

One of the things I love to do from time to time is take advantage of the opportunity to promote some of the great programming that we air on our sister station WGVU-TV, our areas PBS affiliate. In May of 2021 PBS stations across the country aired a remarkable documentary on the life of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, one of the most influential clergymen and academics of the 20th century. If you'd not heard of him, or know little of his story, do give this a listen. And look for showings of the documentary in your area. Our guest is Martin Doblmeier, the founder of Journey Films Inc, a film and television production company focused creating content on religion, faith and spirituality. Martin holds degrees in Religious Studies, Broadcast Journalism and honorary degrees in Fine Arts and Humane Letters. Since 1984 he has produced and directed more than 30 films focused on religion, faith and spirituality. His films include Bonhoffer (2003) The Power of Forgiveness (2007), An American Conscience: The Reinhold Niebuhr Story (2017), and Backs Against The Wall: The Howard Thurman Story (2019). Theme music "Nigal."

Hey, I love West Michigan, really. We have to admit, however, that it's not a hotbed of progressive thought. It may take a while to catch up with other areas. This has surely been the case with with gender based issues. It is almost embarrassing to know that the subject of our discussion in these 2021 episodes made news around the country. It reflected poorly on us. Thankfully, so much has changed over the last couple of decades.The travesty that happened then would not be repeated today in a local public school. With that, listen & learn. Theme music "Nigal."