Podcast Episode 215: What’s Going on in The United Methodist Church? – Part 1 of 3
The United Methodist Church is on the verge of splitting over human sexuality. This is Part 1 of my conversation with Rev. Loren Richmond Jr. on his Future Christian Podcast. Loren asked me to join him to discuss The UMC from a family systems perspective. Show Notes: If you want to fast forward Background on […]
Beware the Quick Fix
…but those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Isaiah [40:31] (NRSV) If I can’t get it in two days (with free shipping), I don’t want it. One of my favorite comedy series released […]
Four Ways to Bridge the Political Divide
I’d like to discuss some of the issues that divide us as Christians. Where should I start? Take your pick: immigration, gun control, abortion, Black Lives Matter, the death penalty. Oh, and there is same sex marriage and the ordination of LGBTQ persons. I’ve done a lot of thinking and praying about these topics and […]
Podcast Episode 77: Leadership through Self-Differentiation in a Polarized Society-A Case Study
Having compassion for and staying connected to those with whom you disagree is not likely to change their mind. It does keep open the possibility for new opportunities. — Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/jack-shitama/message
How to Avoid a Civil War in Your Congregation (or Family)
The “Protocol of Reconciliation and Grace through Separation” that was announced in January puts The United Methodist Church on a different path than other mainline denominations that have battled over LGBTQ+ inclusion. In previous cases, the progressive wing of the denomination ultimately pushed through legislation allowing for ordination and (later) same sex weddings. This in […]
Podcast Episode 54: How to Have a Congregational Conversation on a Difficult Subject
If the Protocol for Separation in The United Methodist Church passes, it will require many congregations to have difficult discussions. Doing so in a way that minimizes surrounding togetherness pressure gives the congregation the best chance to do so in a healthy way.
Podcast Episode 39: Interview with Bill Selby, Family Systems Expert (Part 1 of 3)
Bill Selby is the founder of the Center for Pastoral Effectiveness of the Rockies. He has been training clergy in how to be a non-anxious leader since 1999. This is part one of a three part interview. In today’s segment, Bill shares the importance of staying connected, process and content, and identifying healthy leaders.
Principles and Particulars
Principles are great, but sometimes they conflict with the particulars. I got thinking about this when I listed to a three-part series about casuistry on Malcolm Gladwell’s podcast, Revisionist History. Casuistry, literally means “cases of conscience.” It is a form of moral reasoning that contrasts the relationship between moral paradigms and difficult situations, especially those […]
Podcast Episode 21: Difficult Conversations Part 2–How to Be a Non-Anxious Presence
Engaging in a difficult conversation takes preparation to enable one to be a non-anxious presence. These techniques will help you to prepare, get started and remain a non-anxious presence. Show Notes: Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, Sheila Heen and Roger Fisher