Best Deep Talks Exploring Theology Podcasts (2025)

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...From Empire: Accelerationism w/ Andrea Emerson 1:21:45

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2d ago1:21:45

1:21:45

In this episode Brandi is joined by Andrea Emerson to talk about accelerationsim (political) and the ways that pushing people and systems to rock bottom has been a historic hallmark of destructive Christian practices and how we might choose a different way. Andrea and a group of folks have dedicated themselves to support the Ouda family, a palestin…

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Can Artificial Intelligence Make Moral Decisions? | Sam Tideman 1:24:11

2d ago1:24:11

1:24:11

Sam Tideman is a Harvard-trained biostatistical data scientist. Subscribe to my FREE weekly newsletter: https://paulanleitner.substack.com/ Support my work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalkstheologypodcastBy Paul Anleitner

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Unitarian Universalism 101 - So You Wanna Be A Unitarian? | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | 08.17.25 24:00

5d ago24:00

24:00

What does it mean to be a Unitarian? In this sermon from our Unitarian Universalism 101 series, Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald explains the history and heart of Unitarianism in simple, practical terms. He shares the story of the hymn By the River, the debates at the Council of Nicaea, and why Unitarians believe that God is One and God is Love. This message …

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Caribbean Radical | Guest Minister Rev. Adam Lawrence Dyer | 08.10.25 22:18

12d ago22:18

22:18

First Unitarian Church of Dallas is pleased to welcome guest preacher Adam Lawrence Dyer. Caribbean Radical Caribbean immigrants in the 1920s were among some of the most powerful voices protesting the violence of lynching and other racial oppressions. It is often from immigrants that we learn what it means to value freedom. About Adam Lawrence Dyer…

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Why Modern Education is Broken | Jeremy Wayne Tate 55:37

18d ago55:37

55:37

Jeremy Wayne Tate is the founder and CEO of the Classic Learning Test and a national leader in the revival of classical education. Subscribe to my FREE weekly newsletter: https://paulanleitner.substack.com/ Support my work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalkstheologypodcastBy Paul Anleitner

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Proud to be an American | Guest Minister Rev. Adam Lawrence Dyer | 08.03.25 18:13

19d ago18:13

18:13

First Unitarian Church of Dallas is pleased to welcome guest preacher Adam Lawrence Dyer. Proud To Be An American At a time when our country seems determined to tear itself apart, how do we answer this question from a Unitarian Universalist perspective? About Adam Lawrence Dyer. Adam Lawrence Dyer is an ordained minister and was the lead minister a…

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...From Empire: Civil Resistance w/ Andre Henry 1:26:41

22d ago1:26:41

1:26:41

In this episode, Brandi is joined by Andre Henry to talk about how we move toward social change, pressure power and systems to move, and maintain our humanity as we content for the world that we believe is possible. You can find Andre's work here! If you like what you hear you can subscribe, rate, review, or tell others about the show. You can help…

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Fantastic Four, Superman, & More: A Deeper Analysis of this Summer's Movies 1:07:39

26d ago1:07:39

1:07:39

In this episode, I'll break down the deeper philosophical and theological ideas in Fantastic Four, Superman, Jurassic World Rebirth, and F1. Subscribe to my FREE weekly newsletter: https://paulanleitner.substack.com/ Support my work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalkstheologypodcastBy Paul Anleitner

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Jonathan Larson | Artists Who Inspire Series | 07.27.25 21:00

1M ago21:00

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Through works like Rent, Jonathan Larson gave voice to a generation grappling with love, loss, and the search for meaning. This Sunday, we’ll reflect on his legacy and how his art reminds us to live boldly, love freely, and measure our lives in moments that matter. This is part of our . Join us this July for a moving exploration of creativity, cour…

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Dolly Parton | Artists Who Inspire Series | 07.20.25 21:00

1M ago21:00

21:00

With wit, wisdom, and a generous heart, Dolly Parton has become a beloved cultural force. Join us as we explore her life and music, celebrating themes of compassion, humility, and joyful resistance to the status quo. This is part of our . Join us this July for a moving exploration of creativity, courage, and the human spirit in our annual summer se…

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Superman Review & Discussion with Parker Settecase 1:18:05

1M ago1:18:05

1:18:05

Parker Settecase and Paul Anleitner discuss the philosophical themes in James Gunn's new Superman movie starring David Corenswet. Subscribe to @ParkerNotes and @ParkersPensees Substack: https://parknotes.substack.com/ Subscribe to "Reading the Zeitgeist" with Paul Anleitner: https://substack.com/@paulanleitner?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profil…

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Celebrating 50 Episodes of Tiny Pulpit Talks! 4:40

1M ago4:40

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In this special 50th episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Beth Dana and Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald take a moment to reflect on how this podcast began - born out of a desire to show a more intimate look at the church's values and mission beyond what you might see in the Sanctuary on Sundays. Together, they share stories from the early days of the podcast, …

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Frida Kahlo | Artists Who Inspire Series | 07.13.25 20:24

2M ago20:24

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Bold, raw, and deeply personal, Frida Kahlo’s art continues to challenge and inspire. This Sunday, we’ll consider how Kahlo’s unflinching self-expression and embrace of pain as part of the creative process call us to authenticity, resilience, and radical love of self. This is part of our . Join us this July for a moving exploration of creativity, c…

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Duke Ellington | Artists Who Inspire Series | 07.06.25 21:13

2M ago21:13

21:13

More than a jazz legend, Duke Ellington was a visionary who used music to speak to the soul. We’ll reflect on how his life and compositions invite us into the divine rhythms of life and justice. This is part of our . Join us this July for a moving exploration of creativity, courage, and the human spirit in our annual summer sermon series, “Artists …

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What is Universalism? Exploring the Theology of Universal Salvation | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 050 9:52

2M ago9:52

9:52

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T.J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into the theological roots and modern-day relevance of Universalism within Unitarian Universalism. 🙌 In this episode, they ask the bold question: "If Jesus came to save all, are we already saved?" From John Murray's radical message of universal salvation in early Ame…

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Why Tom Cruise is a Vibe Shift Icon 21:19

2M ago21:19

21:19

Sign up for my free weekly newsletter: https://paulanleitner.substack.com/p/the-tom-cruise-revival-and-the-return Support my work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalkstheologypodcastBy Deep Talks: Exploring Theology and Meaning-Making

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Juneteenth and the Legacy of Opal Lee: A Unitarian Universalist Perspective | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 049 11:51

2M ago11:51

11:51

In this special episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald reflects on the deep significance of Juneteenth, a celebration of freedom rooted in Texas soil, and the legacy of Opal Lee, the “Grandmother of Juneteenth,” whose tireless advocacy made June 19th a federally recognized holiday. Join us as we explore: The history of Juneteenth and i…

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Protest Ready: A UU Guide to Showing Up with Courage and Care | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 048 18:20

2M ago18:20

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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana sit down for a timely and practical conversation about how Unitarian Universalists can prepare to show up at protests with courage, compassion, and responsibility. Many of us feel the urgent call to take to the street - for racial justice, climate action, reproductive fr…

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What You Might Not Know About Immigration Rights with Jiroko Lopez, Texas Immigration Attorney | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 047 35:44

3M ago35:44

35:44

In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T.J. Fitzgerald sits down with Dallas-based immigration attorney Jiroko Lopez for a conversation about what it really means to seek legal status in the United States. Rev. T.J. and Jiroko unpack the myths, the fear, and the staggering complexity of immigration law in this country. They talk about red cards…

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Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of "The Way Way Back" | Faith and Film Series | 06.29.25 22:39

3M ago22:39

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In the final sermon in our Faith & Film series, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter explores what it means to live courageously in a world that often demands our silence and compliance. Drawing inspiration from the film The Way Way Back, the abolitionist legacy of Thaddeus Stevens, and the struggles we face in today’s political and personal climate, this messag…

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Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of "The Grapes of Wrath" | Faith and Film Series | 06.22.25 28:14

3M ago28:14

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The Grapes of Wrath, based on John Steinbeck’s classic novel, is a powerful exploration of human dignity, social justice, and the pursuit of a better life. The film challenges us to reflect on economic inequality, the struggles of the marginalized, and the enduring power of hope and solidarity in the face of adversity. It calls us to act with compa…

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Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of "Babe" | Faith and Film Series | 06.15.25 26:01

3M ago26:01

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Babe, the heartwarming story of a pig who dreams of becoming a sheepdog, reminds us that kindness, empathy, and the courage to be ourselves are at the heart of transformation. Through Babe’s journey, we are invited to reflect on the importance of compassion and how it transcends species, class, and expectations. The film underscores the power of lo…

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Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of “Spider-man Into the Spider-verse” | Faith & Film Series | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald 23:26

3M ago23:26

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In this Unitarian Universalist Pride Sunday sermon, Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald weaves together the story of Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, queer theology, and the lived realities of LGBTQ+ people. From Miles Morales’ transformation into Spider-Man to the words of Audre Lorde and James Baldwin, Rev. Fitzgerald explores how heroism, guilt, and surviva…

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Exploring the Spiritual Lessons of "Moana 2" | Faith and Film Series | 06.01.25 21:08

3M ago21:08

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In this sermon, Rev. Beth Dana opens our Faith and Film Series with a deep look at Disney’s Moana 2 through the lens of Unitarian Universalist faith, Pacific Island history, and womanist theology. Moana’s journey to reconnect her people becomes a powerful metaphor for how we find our way in hard times - when the path isn’t clear, when we feel lost,…

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5 Rules for Resistance | Rev. T.J. FitzGerald | 05.25.25 20:39

3M ago20:39

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In this Unitarian Universalist Memorial Day sermon, Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald reflects on the legacy of faith, resistance, and sacrifice. Drawing on the stories of Michael Servetus and John Calvin, and the painful truths of war, from the Civil War to World War I to modern-day Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, this sermon challenges us to honor the fallen not j…

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How Unitarian Universalism Helps Rebuild Faith After Religious Trauma | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 046 11:29

3M ago11:29

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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald discuss religious trauma and how it continues to impact the spiritual and emotional well-being of many people, especially in communities like ours in North Texas. They explore what healing can look like within a Unitarian Universalist context, wh…

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Rituals for Uplifting Youth in Our Unitarian Universalist Community | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 045 10:29

3M ago10:29

10:29

This is the time of year when we honor the youth of our church and celebrate their wisdom, courage, and emerging sense of identity within our Unitarian Universalist community. In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald and Rev. Beth Dana explore the significance of our Coming of Age and Bridging traditions. They reflect on how thes…

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Written on the Heart | Bridging Sunday for Coming of Age & Graduating Seniors | Rev. Beth Dana 14:49

4M ago14:49

14:49

Join us as we celebrate and bless our youth coming of age and graduating seniors bridging into young adulthood with an exploration of the faith commitments we hold in our hearts. First Unitarian Church of Dallas is devoted to genuine inclusion, depth and joy, reason and spirit. We have been a voice of progressive religion in Dallas since 1899, work…

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Pilgrimage to the Khasi Hills: A Deep Dive into Our UU Partnership in India | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 044 9:30

4M ago9:30

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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter talks with Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana about the annual First Church pilgrimage to the Khasi Hills of Northeast India, where over 10,000 Unitarians have built a deeply rooted, indigenous faith community. He shares powerful stories from the Annie Margaret Barr Children's Villa…

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Progressive Religion vs Progressive Politics: What's the Difference? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 043 11:46

4M ago11:46

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What does it mean to be a progressive Unitarian Universalist faith? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald, and Rev. Beth Dana sit down in the Minister’s Study to explore what it really means when Unitarian Universalists call themselves a progressive religious community. They reflect on the bold ideas th…

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Justice Is Love: A Mother's Day Sermon for the World We Must Build | Aurora Levins Morales | 05.11.25 18:45

4M ago18:45

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Join us for a special worship service at First Unitarian Church of Dallas, where we are honored to welcome writer, artist, historian, and activist Aurora Levins Morales as our guest minister. Aurora Levins Morales is a Puerto Rican author, artist, activist, and historian. Her writing and activism persistently imagine a world in which the personal i…

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Singing the Songs of Solidarity, Imagination, and Hope | Aurora Levins Morales | 05.04.2025 UU Sermon 19:54

4M ago19:54

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In this sermon, acclaimed poet, activist, and historian Aurora Levins Morales shares how she practices hope in an age of despair. “We were made for these times,” she reminds us, quoting Clarissa Pinkola Estés. As corporate greed escalates and injustice deepens, Aurora draws on her Puerto Rican Jewish ancestry, liberation theology, and the global st…

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Rise Up, New Flame | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | 04.27.2025 23:06

4M ago23:06

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In a time when books are banned, histories are erased, and injustice burns through our communities, Unitarian Universalists are called to something greater - to rise, to resist, and to create a future shaped by love, justice, and fierce compassion. Rev. T. J. FitzGerald's sermon "Rise Up, New Flame" reflects on the life and legacy of Maya Angelou, …

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Where in the World is Our Minister? Sabbatical Update + New Adventures! | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 042 13:29

4M ago13:29

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Welcome to another episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks with Reverends T. J., Beth, and Daniel. This week, they dive into the meaning and practice of sabbatical—not just as a ministerial break, but as a spiritual discipline rooted in the ancient rhythms of Sabbath and renewal. Reverend Kanter shares reflections from his current sabbatical journey, includin…

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What Does Easter Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 041 8:18

4M ago8:18

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Welcome to a special edition of Tiny Pulpit Talks — from the minister’s study! 🕊️ Today, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter, Rev. Beth Dana, and Rev. T. J. FitzGerald sit down to wrestle with a big question on many Unitarian Universalist minds: What do Unitarian Universalists believe about Easter? And why do Unitarian Universalists celebrate Easter? Tune in to…

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Why Culture is Going Post-Cynical (Also a BIG Announcement) 1:10:19

4M ago1:10:19

1:10:19

Special thanks to PostEverything Podcast for having me on. Check them out at: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IduWunxhhDfZd8vYOGNab?si=c2912b1cc62649ce ___________________________ Deep Talks is a listener-supported podcast. Become a Patreon member today and receive bonus episodes, Q & A opportunities, and more! https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalksthe…

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A Desperate Mad Hope | Easter | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter | 04.20.25 UU Sermon 17:56

4M ago17:56

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In his Unitarian Universalist Easter sermon, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter invites us to rethink resurrection — not as an ancient miracle, but as a living, breathing hope we carry into today's complicated world. In "A Desperate Mad Hope," Rev. Kanter explores the Unitarian Universalist tradition of questioning and seeking deeper truth: 🌸 What does Easter …

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Make Way | Palm Sunday | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | 04.13.2025 22:12

4M ago22:12

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On this Palm Sunday, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald invites us into a journey to explore what it means to choose the path of love in a time of fear. Drawing from the story of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, the poetry of Mary Oliver, and the complexities of modern life, this Unitarian Universalist sermon speaks to those seeking courage, clarity, and spiritual …

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Jordan Hall Set Out to Save Civilization & Found a Small Country Church Instead 1:23:20

5M ago1:23:20

1:23:20

Jordan Hall, is a futurist, philosopher, and public speaker renowned for his insights into the interplay between technology and culture. Hall played a significant role in the digital media landscape at MP3.com and later as the founder and CEO of DivX, a company instrumental in the online digital video revolution. After this, Hall turned his attent…

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The Inevitable Emptiness of Deconstruction | Ian Harber 1:22:36

5M ago1:22:36

1:22:36

Ian Harber is the author of Walking Through Deconstruction: How to be a Companion in a Crisis of Faith. https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Through-Deconstruction-Companion-Crisis/dp/1514008564 ___________________________ Deep Talks is a listener-supported podcast. Become a Patreon member today and receive bonus episodes, Q & A opportunities, and more! …

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How UU Churches Address Mental Health with Love and Action | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 040 9:15

5M ago9:15

9:15

Welcome to Tiny Pulpit Talks! We're so glad you're here. In this episode, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into a deeply important conversation about mental health—why it matters, why the church should care, and how we can create a faith community that supports every person’s well-being. Too often, mental health struggles are met with …

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Neighborly Evangelism: Living Your UU Values in Difficult Interactions | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 039 10:00

5M ago10:00

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How do we relate to people who demonstrate values that are offensive or fundamentally different from our own? What does it mean to engage with integrity, especially when we encounter messages—on yard signs, bumper stickers, or even in casual conversations—that challenge our beliefs? In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Reverend T. J. FitzGerald, M…

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The Meaning Crisis & Our Post-Cynical Vibe Shift 1:46:37

6M ago1:46:37

1:46:37

I recently joined Christian Baxter and the Yours Truly Podcast to discuss how the meaning crisis is leading to our post-cynical vibe shift. ------ Deep Talks is a listener-supported podcast. Become a Patreon member today and receive bonus episodes, Q & A opportunities, and more! https://www.patreon.com/c/deeptalkstheologypodcast…

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Pilgrimage | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter | 04.06.2025 25:33

6M ago25:33

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What does it mean to journey with intention? What questions are worth traveling for? And how might India and the Khasi expression of Unitarian Universalism help us reimagine our own faith? In this sermon, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter concludes our series on the spiritual practices of Unitarian Universalism by exploring pilgrimage—not just as a journey to…

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Retreat | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter | 03.30.2025 15:56

6M ago15:56

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What does it mean to truly retreat as a spiritual practice that nourishes the soul? After months of pilgrimage and retreat in India and New Zealand, Rev. Dr. Daniel Kanter returns with deep reflections on silence, stillness, and the ways we can step back to gain perspective. In this sermon, he examines how retreat—be it a brief moment of stillness,…

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Monthly Service | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Beth Dana | 03.23.2025 18:53

6M ago18:53

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What does it mean to truly serve others? Is it about helping, fixing, or something deeper? In Rev. Beth’s sermon “Monthly Service,” we explore the difference between simply offering assistance and engaging in service as a spiritual practice. Drawing from the wisdom of Dr. Rachel Naomi Remen, the Apostle Paul, and Unitarian Universalist teachings, w…

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Weekly Worship | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. T. J. FitzGerald | 03.16.2025 21:53

6M ago21:53

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In his sermon “Weekly Worship,” Rev. T. J. Fitzgerald explores worship as a transformative spiritual practice—one that connects us to our history, our collective memory, and the deep well of resilience needed in times of challenge. Rev. T. J. invites us to consider the meaning of worship beyond routine. We are reminded of the way worship shapes our…

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Daily Practice | Spiritual Practices to Light the Way | Rev. Beth Dana | 03.09.2025 14:51

6M ago14:51

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In this Lenten sermon, Rev. Beth Dana explores the spiritual practice of letting go in order to make space for renewal and deeper connection. Reflecting on the Unitarian Universalist traditions of the Burning Service and Ash Wednesday, she shares how saying no to what no longer serves us allows us to say yes to truth, love, and a more intentional l…

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What Does Lent Mean to Unitarian Universalists? | Tiny Pulpit Talks: 038 9:18

6M ago9:18

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In this episode of Tiny Pulpit Talks, Rev. T. J. FitzGerald and Rev. Beth Dana dive into the meaning and traditions of the Lenten season—a time of reflection, connection, and transformation. Lent isn't just about giving something up; it's about making space for something deeper. We explore the history of these 40 days, the significance of sacrifice…

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...From Empire: Authoritarianism and Fascism w/ Jarrod McKenna 1:12:38

6M ago1:12:38

1:12:38

In this episode Brandi is joined by Jarrod McKenna to lay a primer foundation about authoritarianism and fascism in the Christian worldview and what we can do to come back to the way of Jesus. You can find Jarrod's work here and learn more about God 's Story Told By God's Children here! If you like what you hear you can subscribe, rate, review, or …