Church and Main

Dennis Sanders sits down with Michael Baharaeen, chief political analyst for The Liberal Patriot, to explore the growing crisis of political polarization in America. Drawing on data, history, and his own experience working in national politics, Baharain examines how Americans have increasingly sorted themselves into politically homogenous communities, fueled by the decline of shared public spaces, the rise of social media, and a two-party system that leaves little room for nuance. The conversation covers the real dangers this polarization poses to democracy — from eroding trust between neighbors to the risk of sustained political violence — while also offering practical paths forward. Shownotes: Growing Tribalism Threatens the American Experiment (Michael Baharaeen) How everyday Americans can help pull their democracy back from the brink (Michael Baharaeen) Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In part two of his conversation with Lutheran Pastor Rob Maialis, host Dennis Sanders turns the lens toward the youngest generation entering adulthood. Is there a genuine religious revival happening among Gen Z, or are we measuring the wrong things? Together, they explore what it might look like for mainline churches to truly meet Gen Z rather than simply wait for them, and how an unlikely partnership between the oldest and youngest generations in the pew might be exactly what both groups need. Shownotes: Gen Z's Religious Revival Likely Escapes Notice (Rob's Article) Lectionary Greek Blog Related Episode: The Church and the Three-Quarter Life Crisis with Rob Myallis | Episode 273 Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

What happens when the people who built your church — the ones who carried it through lean years, chaired every committee, and showed up faithfully for decades — start to feel like the ladder has been taken away from them? In this episode, I welcome back Lutheran pastor and Rob Myallis to explore what Rob calls the "three-quarter life crisis": the profound emotional, physical, and spiritual transition many people face in their mid-to-late seventies. Shownotes: The Three-Quarter Life Crisis (Rob's Article) Lectionary Greek Blog Related Episode: Luther Seminary and the Future of Mainline Protestantism with Rob Myallis | Episode 239 Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

When the Department of Homeland Security launched Operation PARRIS in January 2026, thousands of legal refugees in Minnesota suddenly found themselves targets of ICE arrests and detention — despite having followed every rule required of them. In this episode, I sit down with Emily Belz, senior staff writer at Christianity Today, to unpack how this shocking crackdown unfolded and how faith communities responded. Emily Belz- Refugees Disappeared. Churches Prayed and Lawyered Up. Emily Belz- Excerpts from a Judge’s Ruling in Favor of Minnesota Refugees Arrive Ministries Facebook Page Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this conversation, David Swanson discusses his experiences as a pastor in Bronzeville, Chicago, and the role of protest within the Christian faith. He reflects on the importance of community engagement, the theological underpinnings of protest, and the connections between spiritual practices and activism. Swanson emphasizes the need for lament in protest, the significance of bearing witness, and offers guidance for those new to activism. He encourages Christians to participate in protests as an expression of their faith and to recognize the historical context of protest within Christianity. Suggested Reading and Listening: 🌐David Swanson’s website 📝A Christian Theology of Protest: Bearing Faithful Witness in a Time of Unrest Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I speak with Wes Granberg-Michelson about the essential link between spirituality and social justice in today's political climate, looking at the urgency for faith communities to act while remaining grounded in spiritual practices. Drawing from his book, "The Soul Work of Justice", Wes advocates for integrating deep prayer and reflection into our pursuit of justice, ultimately calling for a renewed approach that prioritizes faith and love in addressing societal challenges. The Soulwork of Justice Wes Granberg-Michaelson's website Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I engage with Pastor Anthony Robinson to discuss the contentious label of fascism in relation to Donald Trump's political rise. We look at Jonathan Rauch's essay, "Yes, It's Fascism," and explore the implications of such labels for American democracy. Robinson shares his evolving perspective, while I highlight the complexities of terminology and its potential to divide. Suggested Reading and Listening: Yes, It’s Fascism I Was Wrong Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Rachel Pieh Jones joins to talk about the importance of potlucks in Minneapolis during a time of division. Drawing from her experiences in Djibouti and Somaliland, Rachel discusses how communal meals can bridge diverse communities and foster empathy, particularly amid the challenges faced by immigrant populations. Why Minneapolis Needs Potlucks Now Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Political commentator Matt Lewis joins the podcast to talk about the shifting relationship between character and politics from the 1990s to the present. We examine how character dynamics during the Bill Clinton era contrast with current debates surrounding Donald Trump. Matt shares personal insights from his background while reflecting on the moral dilemmas faced by Republicans and the implications for the evangelical community. Matt Lewis' website Character Is Destiny article Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Dr. Paul Hoffman speaks about the intersection of faith and technology, especially artificial intelligence (AI). Dr. Hoffman discusses his recent book, "AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep," exploring how AI can both aid and hinder human flourishing from a theological perspective. We look at the implications of AI on community, embodiment, and the church's role in navigating these challenges. AI Shepherds and Electric Sheep Paul Hoffman Bio Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Lane Davis, an ordained minister and assistant professor of Church History, unpacks his insightful article, "How the Religious Left Ceded Power to the Religious Right." We explore Lane's journey from pastoral ministry to academia and discuss the historical decline of liberal Christianity's political influence. Lane reflects on pivotal moments, such as Pete Buttigieg’s candidacy, and critiques the assertion of a liberal Christianity resurgence under Biden. We analyze the historical dominance of mainline Protestantism, the rise of evangelical conservatism, and the existential crisis facing liberal churches today. How the Religious Left Ceded Political Power to the Religious Right America’s Vanishing Church Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this special episode, we look at the tragic death of Rene Goode by an ICE agent in Minneapolis. Joined by pastor Eric Elkin, we address the emotional aftermath and the impact of immigration policies on community safety. Eric shares his frustrations with ICE operations and the narratives that dehumanize victims. We emphasize the faith community's role in advocating for justice while navigating feelings of division. I conclude by reflecting on the resurrection hope in the midst of rising authoritarianism. Advent United Methodist website Eric Elkin's website and podcast Easter Means Hope, Not Optimism by Drew McIntyre When ICE Comes to Town with Quincy Worthington Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this episode, I chat with Brad Todd, a political commentator for CNN, about the significance of grace in our polarized society. We discuss the challenges of maintaining grace in civil discourse, the impact of recent political scandals, and the disconnect between clergy and congregants. Brad advocates for local initiatives that promote kindness and emphasizes that recognizing our shared humanity is essential for meaningful dialogue in divisive times. Suggested Reading and Listening: The What For Newsletter Top Church and Main Episodes of 2025 Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Episcopal priest and theologian Todd Brewer explores grace and charity through the contrasts of Roman and Christian gift-giving practices, Paul's perspective on charity, and reflects and the implications of these ideas for modern society. Reckless Charity and Infinite Grace Notes From the Fragmented Ivory Tower Terrible Parables Podcast Go to Church Anyway. Grace and Mercy in Ones and Zeroes Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

On the next to the last episode of 2025, Dennis joins Loren Richmond Jr. of the Future Christian Podcast and David Emery for an insightful discussion on the future of the Disciples of Christ denomination. We tackle the historical significance of the phrase "no creed but Christ" and the contemporary challenges it faces amidst shifting beliefs and diverse generational perspectives. We then look at the evolution of our church’s identity, the urgency for a clear theological message, the enrichment of our sacramental practices. We explore the resilience of local churches and the necessity for collaboration, highlighting inspiring stories of revitalization and growth within our communities. Ultimately, we call for a practical and meaningful expression of faith that embraces authenticity, inclusion, and connection as we navigate the future. Future Christian Podcast Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I talk with Pastor Benjamin Duholm from Christ Lutheran Church in Dallas about the intersection of faith and the current political landscape. What does worship look like in an era of political polarization? Dueholm explores the idea of liturgy extending beyond church walls to address societal issues. He offers practical advice for church leaders to focus on the gospel amid political pressures, emphasizing that worship can unite and heal in a complex world. Template and Transcript: The Roles of Liturgy amid Rhetorical Polarization Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

In this conversation, Yolanda Denson-Byers discusses the Pray Without Ceasing initiative in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, which fosters community prayer and deepens relationships within the church. Yolanda highlights the importance of prayer in addressing social justice issues and how it can empower congregations to engage with their communities. She offers practical advice for churches looking to start similar initiatives, emphasizing that prayer is a simple yet profound conversation with God. Suggested Reading and Listening: Pray Without Ceasing at Shepherd of the Hills in Minnesota Pray Without Ceasing Website See Me, Believe Me: A Guide to Deepen Allyship with Congregational Leaders of Color Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Joseph Wolyniak discusses the profound impact of media and technology on the faith and political engagement of American Christians. He emphasizes the need for believers to be aware of how their beliefs and actions are influenced by external factors, rather than solely by the teachings of Jesus. Resisting Provocateur Politics Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

I speak with Quincy Worthington, pastor of Highland Park Presbyterian Church, about the intersection of faith and immigration amidst ongoing ICE actions in Chicago. Quincy shares his experiences and the role of his church in advocating for immigrant rights, highlighting the fear and challenges faced by families due to enforcement measures. Our conversation emphasizes the need for faith leaders to promote justice and stand in solidarity with marginalized communities, urging listeners to recognize humanity in all individuals. Chicago pastors confront escalating violence at ICE detention facility- Presbyterian Outlook We Found That More Than 170 U.S. Citizens Have Been Held by Immigration Agents. (Pro Publica) How Elite Agents Use High-Risk Military Tactics in Chicago Raids- Wall Street Journal Jesus is Pilate's Victim- Jason Micheli Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube

Jack Shitama, an ordained United Methodist minister, talks about the concept of societal regression and its implications for leadership and community engagement. Shitama explains how societal regression mirrors emotional regression in families, characterized by polarization and a desire for quick fixes. He discusses the role of non-anxious leaders in navigating these challenges and emphasizes the importance of love and understanding in overcoming societal divides. The conversation also touches on the future of society, the potential for hope amidst crisis, and the responsibilities of faith communities in fostering a non-anxious presence. 5 Ways to Lead during a Societal Regression Donate to Church and Main Join the Church and Main Email List churchandmain@substack.com Facebook | Instagram | Threads | Twitter | Website | YouTube