By Lauren Jenkins How do you define spirituality? In May 2019 I received the opportunity to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa. We would receive class credit as well as work with children in the area. Prior to this trip I had lost my grandfather as well as ended my first serious, and manipulative, … Continue reading
By Leigh Reynolds Recently, while preparing a research paper on the rise of those claiming the designation spiritual but not religious (SBNR) and its impact on the Christian church in North America, I discovered the work of Linda Mercadante. Mercadante, an ordained Minister, Professor of Historical Theology at Methodist Theological School in Ohio, and leading … Continue reading
By Christie Thadikonda Jesus Christ is often referred to as ‘The Bridegroom’. This analogy can be understood clearly if one followed the ancient Jewish wedding cultural traditions. Marriage was an agreement between two families rather than between two individuals. The marriage consisted of two separate ceremonies a betrothal and a wedding, which were celebrated at … Continue reading
By Maggie Kennedy In 2021 I moved to a new city to begin my divinity school education. As I was shopping to furnish my first apartment, I wanted to get my kitchen table just right. Something big enough that I could have people over but small enough not to crowd the shoe box I am … Continue reading
By William Scruggs This title comes from a song—“Relatively Easy,” which is the last song on Jason Isbell’s album Southeastern. And these words come at the end of a verse about a brother on a “church kick.” Whoever tells us about it regards such seeking after salvation as akin to being “dope sick,” judging it … Continue reading
By Renee Edington I’ve been thinking a lot about chaos and disorder. It started around the time I was writing a prayer for my seminary’s Fall convocation—a prayer for the new academic year. I struggled to write the prayer. So much was happening in the world. In Kentucky, as in many other states in the … Continue reading
By Jessica McDougald On my first day of class during the fall semester, like we usually do on our first day, we went around and introduced ourselves. Everyone said their name, where they lived, what church they go to, and something they did this summer. When it was time for my professor’s introduction, he mentioned … Continue reading
By Pilar Castrillo Migration as a situation that affects those who migrate, but also where they migrate has become a challenge for communities of faith. How to reconcile the biblical mandate to help others, and especially others who come to live in your community and whose language is unknown. Communities of faith, society in general, … Continue reading
By Chris West Recently, the world’s most popular therapist, Brené Brown, interviewed Sarah Niles, who plays the sports therapist in the popular Apple TV show Ted Lasso. On her podcast, in true Brené Brown fashion, helped listeners better understand their own vulnerability and the connection they have to actors, especially those with talent. In discussing … Continue reading
By Milligan Burroughs I have been so excited to start my first semester at McAfee School of Theology. Throughout my life, I have witnessed multiple people I love and look up to attend McAfee, and when I was in high school it was my dream to finally attend. So far, the first semester I spent … Continue reading