Church and Main

Church and Main

At the Intersection of Religion and Public Life

Church and Main is a religion and public affairs podcast. We look at where religion intersects with 21st-century public life with a focus on the story of Mainline Protestantism, its problems, its strengths, and its future. Join Pastor Dennis Sanders on the journey.

Reviews:
Evangelism in Sad Times with Andrew Root | Episode 233
April 25, 2025
233
47:1437.87 MB

Evangelism in Sad Times with Andrew Root | Episode 233

I had a conversation with Andrew Root, who is a theologian and wrote the book "Evangelism in an Age of Despair." We explored how evangelism can serve as a way to comfort others, stressing the importance of real human connections during hard times instead of just trying to get people to attend church...

What "Elbows Up" Means to Canadian Christians with David Harrison | Episode 232
April 16, 2025
232
42:2133.95 MB

What "Elbows Up" Means to Canadian Christians with David Harrison | Episode 232

In this episode, we look at the shifting dynamics between Canada and the United States amid rising nationalism, influenced by recent U.S. political rhetoric. I speak with David Harrison, an Anglican priest, about the impact on Canadian Christians navigating economic challenges and national identity....

The Good and Bad of DEI with George Yancey | Episode 231
April 11, 2025
231
36:1629.07 MB

The Good and Bad of DEI with George Yancey | Episode 231

In this episode, I explore the complex topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within contemporary church teachings and societal dynamics. I engage in a conversation with George Yancey, a Professor of Sociology and Religion, who shares his insights on DEI’s role in fostering inclusive commun...

The Rise and Fall of the United States Institute of Peace with Susie Hayward | Episode 230
April 04, 2025
230
51:5871.39 MB

The Rise and Fall of the United States Institute of Peace with Susie Hayward | Episode 230

We explore the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) with Susie Hayward, a former senior advisor with extensive experience in religion and inclusive societies. Hayward shares insights into USIP's mission, history, and the recent challenges it faces following actions by the Department of Government...

USAID, Revisited with Peter Mandeville | Episode 229
March 28, 2025
229
54:0443.33 MB

USAID, Revisited with Peter Mandeville | Episode 229

I speak with Peter Mandeville, former head of the faith-based office at USAID, about the complexities of U.S. foreign aid and the agency's current challenges. Peter shares his insights on how faith influences international development and discusses recent shifts under the Department of Government Ef...

Staying at the Communion Table in Politically Divisive Times with Jonathan Hall | Episode 228
March 21, 2025
228
01:04:1851.53 MB

Staying at the Communion Table in Politically Divisive Times with Jonathan Hall | Episode 228

I talk with Jonathan Hall, the pastor of First Christian Church of North Hollywood, as he shares his experiences in leading a politically diverse congregation. He discusses his journey from Alabama to various church communities, emphasizing the need for open communication on difficult subjects. Thro...

Second Thoughts from a Republican Refugee with Gretchen Purser | Episode 227
March 14, 2025
227
01:12:4358.28 MB

Second Thoughts from a Republican Refugee with Gretchen Purser | Episode 227

A former Republican operative talks about her 20-year experience in national campaigns and her transformation into a ”Republican refugee.”

Finding Hope in Trump 2.0 with David Gray | Episode 226
March 07, 2025
226
59:3747.78 MB

Finding Hope in Trump 2.0 with David Gray | Episode 226

How faith communities can provide hope amidst the uncertainties of shifting policies and social climates.