Episodios

  • Interfaith Responses to ICE with Najeeba Syeed

    Interfaith Responses to ICE with Najeeba Syeed
    Dec 20 2025
    This week on The State of Belief: incredible insights from the remarkable Dr. Najeeba Syeed. As a celebrated peacemaker, educator, and scholar in interfaith studies and conflict resolution, Najeeba brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to the conversation. Here are some key takeaways that you'll find both intriguing and inspiring. Minneapolis is home to the largest Somali community outside of Mogadishu. It’s centered on the Cedar-Riverside Community, which has long been a welcoming place for refugees and immigrants, from Jewish congregations and Protestant refugees to East African immigrants, particularly Somali Americans. The Somali Muslim community here is facing increased scrutiny and enforcement actions by ICE, alongside divisive political rhetoric. In fact, over 80% of the Somali community are U.S. citizens, challenging the justification for targeting them. Najeeba celebrates the power of interfaith cooperation and unity in crisis, with powerful examples of interfaith gatherings, like a recent meeting hosted by a Muslim imam and a Christian pastor, attended by a supportive rabbi. Acts of emboldened empathy can look like simply showing up to support one another, like attending Friday prayers at mosques, can be a profound act of solidarity. The appeal of collective punishment is a worrying trend Najeeba identifies across the political spectrum. She warns against narratives that justify collective punishment of entire communities based on the actions of a few. Instead, Najeeba calls for collective empowerment, moving beyond zero-sum thinking to embrace a collective, pluralistic approach to power-building and recognizing that individual and communal flourishing are interconnected. The episode also features my conversation with Imam Ayman Soliman - granted asylum status way back in 2018 - a beloved chaplain at Cincinnati’s Children’s Hospital seized by ICE and held for ten weeks under threat of deportation. His case activated a wide interfaith network of support and concern. You’ll also hear about a brand-new public campaign from Interfaith Alliance, a 30-second video ad highlighting the immorality and horror of ICE disrupting religious and secular celebrations of this special time of the year. You can view and share the ad on youtube. And sign your name to the Love, Not Ice campagin today. More About Dr. Najeeba Syeed: Najeeba is a celebrated peacemaker, educator, and scholar in interfaith studies and conflict resolution, serving as the inaugural El-Hibri Endowed Chair and Executive Director of the Interfaith Institute at Augsburg University. She has more than two decades of experience in mediation, restorative justice, and social equity work. With communities in Minnesota being targeted for capricious enforcement of ICE policies, it is invaluable to have an expert witness and effective leader to share her insights with us. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 m
  • The War Gospel According to Pete Hegseth: Rev. Brian Kaylor

    The War Gospel According to Pete Hegseth: Rev. Brian Kaylor
    Dec 13 2025
    On the latest episode of The State of Belief, you’ll hear the insightful Rev. Dr. Brian Kaylor, President and Editor-in-Chief of Word & Way. Brian and host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush use the lens of his new book, The Bible According to Christian Nationalists: Exploring Scripture for Political Power, to focus on how scripture is being increasingly manipulated to justify distinctly non-biblical politics and policies – particularly at the Pentagon. Of the themes that emerged in the conversation, these were particularly notable: The Misuse of Scripture: Brian discusses how certain factions within Christianity, particularly Christian Nationalists, exploit biblical texts to promote a narrative of violence and division. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing these manipulations and encourages listeners to engage with the Bible in a more faithful and loving manner. The Role of Faith in Politics: We explore the troubling trend of intertwining faith with militarism, particularly in the context of the U.S. military. Brian highlights the monthly Pentagon prayer services led by fringe faith figures associated with Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, preachers who promote a theology that justifies violence in the name of God. Courage in the Face of Oppression: One of the most inspiring parts of our discussion was Brian’s reflection on the growing movement of individuals standing up against Christian Nationalism. He shares examples of grassroots rallies where people are finding their voices and courage to advocate for a more inclusive and pluralistic society – and the courage they summon to do so. Paul starts the episode with an urgent check-in with Rev. Noelle D'Amico, Director of Social Justice at the Workers Circle. The organization and its partners are bearing faithful witness to the human rights abuses being committed in Americans' name at the so-called Alligator Alcatraz in Florida as well as other shadowy detention centers. The Rev. Dr. Brian Kaylor is president and editor-in-chief of Word&Way. He’s also an ordained Baptist minister and a prolific author. His newest book, The Bible According to Christian Nationalists: Exploiting Scripture for Political Power, reveals how scripture is twisted to justify the politics of hate and division. The book is a master class in learning how to recognize these manipulations--and how to discover a more faithful way to read the Bible through the lens of Jesus' love and justice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 2 m
  • Room in the Inn: A Call for Immigrant Solidarity with Rev. Gabriel Salguero

    Room in the Inn: A Call for Immigrant Solidarity with Rev. Gabriel Salguero
    Dec 5 2025
    This week, The National Latino Evangelical Coalition launched the Advent Welcome Campaign, which says: there's room in the inn. That in Advent, we should have space for immigrants, for foreigners, for refugees fleeing political persecution and fleeing places that are very difficult. That’s why we’re releasing this week’s episode of The State of Belief early – because it’s a chance to hear NaLEC President and Founder Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero’s powerful words about the season and the pressing social issues, the importance of advocacy, and the role of faith in addressing the challenges faced by immigrant communities. Here are three key takeaways that resonated with me: The Importance of a Diverse Evangelical Voice: Gabriel emphasizes that Latino evangelicals are not a monolith. With over 10 million Latino Evangelicals in the US, it's crucial to recognize the diversity of thought and experience within this community. They are not just swing voters; they have their own unique voices and public policy priorities that extend beyond the traditional party lines. This diversity enriches the broader evangelical conversation and highlights the need for inclusive dialogue on issues that matter to all of us. Courage in Advocacy: Courage is a recurring theme in our discussion. Gabriel calls for faith leaders from all backgrounds to stand up for the marginalized, particularly immigrants facing unjust treatment. He shares powerful stories of families torn apart by indiscriminate immigration enforcement and the moral imperative for faith communities to respond with compassion and action. This episode serves as a reminder that true faith is not just about belief but also about living out those beliefs through advocacy and support for those in need. The Advent Welcome Campaign We also discuss the launch of the Advent Welcome Immigration Solidarity Initiative, "Room in the Inn." This campaign invites all faith leaders and communities to create space for immigrants and refugees during the Advent season. It’s a call to action that aligns with the core message of hospitality found in the Christian tradition. As Gabriel eloquently states, “When Jesus said, ‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me’, he wasn’t kidding.” This initiative is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to welcome the stranger and uphold human dignity – especially at this time of the year. Rev. Dr. Gabriel Salguero is a prominent Latino evangelical pastor and the founder of the National Latino Evangelical Coalition (NaLEC), a movement that is non-partisan, Biblical, Gospel-centered, pastoral, and rooted in the life of Christ. He was the former Director of the Hispanic Leadership Program (HLP), and the Institute for Faith and Public Life at Princeton Theological Seminary. He also leads a multicultural congregation as pastor of The Gathering Place, a Latino‑led Assemblies of God church in Orlando, Florida, alongside his wife, Rev. Jeanette Salguero. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 m
  • Fully Herself: Rev. Winnie Varghese Assumes the Pulpit at St. John the Divine in New York City

    Fully Herself: Rev. Winnie Varghese Assumes the Pulpit at St. John the Divine in New York City
    Nov 29 2025
    This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by the Very Rev. Winnie Varghese, the first female dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. As a queer Episcopal priest born to Indian immigrants, she brings a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing faith communities today. In this episode, we dive deep into her journey, the significance of her role, and the current state of faith in America. Here are three key takeaways that resonated with me: The Power of Belonging: Rev. Winnie emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is not just a historic building; it serves as a beacon of hope and inclusivity for people from all walks of life. Integrating Identity and Faith: One of the most profound moments in the conversation is when Rev. Winnie shares her experience of realizing her call to the priesthood and embracing her identity as a queer woman. She highlights that these aspects of her life are not separate but are deeply intertwined. This integration of identity and faith is crucial for authentic ministry and serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar journeys. Responding to Current Challenges: In light of the rising tide of White Christian nationalism, Rev. Winnie calls for a proactive approach to ministry that emphasizes advocacy and community-building. She discusses the importance of addressing social justice issues through action and engagement, reminding us that faith must be lived out in tangible ways. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that challenges us to rethink our roles in our communities and the broader society. More About the Very Rev. Winnie Varghese: Rev. Winnie is the first female dean of the largest cathedral in the United States, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. A graduate of Union Theological Seminary, Rev. Varghese has held pastoral positions in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and at several other New York congregations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 5 m
  • The Power of Faithful Non-Violent Resistance with Maria Stephan

    The Power of Faithful Non-Violent Resistance with Maria Stephan
    Nov 22 2025
    This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by Dr. Maria J. Stephan, co-lead and chief organizer at the Horizons Project. In the conversation, we get her expert take on the pressing issues of authoritarianism, democracy, and the vital role of faith in social movements. A key component of that is faithful, nonviolent resistance, which Maria has observed and supported in different parts of the world. The ground covered includes: The Subtle Erosion of Democracy: Maria emphasizes that democracies are not always dismantled through overt military coups; rather, they often face a slow, insidious decline. Authoritarian leaders can undermine democratic norms and institutions by eliminating checks and balances, weaponizing government agencies, and suppressing dissent. The Power of Faith in Resistance: Throughout history, religious communities have played a pivotal role in resisting authoritarianism. Maria highlights how faith leaders and congregations are stepping up to provide moral support and physical presence in protests and acts of civil disobedience. Courage in Action: Courage manifests in various forms, from speaking out against injustice to putting one’s body on the line for the sake of others. Maria reminds us that courage is contagious; when individuals see others taking a stand, it inspires them to do the same. This ripple effect is vital for sustaining movements and fostering a culture of resistance. We encourage you to listen to this meaningful and timely episode, and reflect on how we can each contribute to the fight for democracy and justice. About Dr. Maria J. Stephan Maria is co-lead and chief organizer at the Horizons Project, which works on building inclusive democracy and dismantling tyranny through nonviolent action. She is a political scientist and co-author of the award-winning book Why Civil Resistance Works. Previously, Maria served as Director of the Program on Nonviolent Action at the U.S. Institute of Peace and held foreign affairs roles in the U.S. State Department. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 m
  • What the Separation of Church and State Means Today with Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer

    What the Separation of Church and State Means Today with Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer
    Nov 15 2025
    The latest episode of The State of Belief features the esteemed historian and author, Rev. Dr. Randall Balmer. We go in-depth with his latest book, America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State, and explore the critical importance of this principle in today's America. Here are three key takeaways: The Historical Roots of Separation: Randall emphasizes that the concept of separation of Church and State is not just a recent source of concern, but a foundational principle rooted in the diverse religious landscape of early America. The Founding Fathers, aware of the religious conflicts in Europe, sought to create a nation where no single religion would dominate. The Threat of Majoritarianism: One of the most striking points Randall makes is the current Supreme Court's tendency to favor majoritarianism, particularly in matters of religion. He argues that the court's decisions often reflect the beliefs of a Christian majority, sidelining the rights of minority faiths and non-religious individuals. The Call for Courage and Hope: In a time when religious freedom is under attack, Randall encourages us all to embrace small acts of resistance and to remain hopeful. He reminds us that courage can manifest in various forms, from participating in rallies to engaging in meaningful conversations about faith and democracy. It’s an enlightening conversation with Dr. Balmer, as we navigate the complexities of faith, politics, and the future of our democracy. Together, we explore how we can uphold the separation of Church and State and ensure that all voices are heard in our society. More about Randall Balmer A prize-winning historian and Emmy Award nominee, a New York Times best-selling author, Randall Balmer holds the John Phillips Chair in Religion at Dartmouth, the oldest endowed professorship at Dartmouth College. He's also an Episcopal priest, and as early as 1989, he was publishing books like Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: A Journey into Evangelical Subculture in America, and Thy Kingdom Come: How the Religious Right Distorts Faith and Threatens America. Most recently, Dr. Balmer published America's Best Idea: The Separation of Church and State, addressing some of the most foundational and endangered principles of our history and national identity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 m
  • "Courage is the New Currency": Skye Perryman and Democracy Forward

    "Courage is the New Currency": Skye Perryman and Democracy Forward
    Nov 8 2025
    In this episode of The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush dives deep into some critical issues facing our nation with Skye Perryman, President and CEO of Democracy Forward. They discussed the legal battle to restore SNAP food benefits during the government shutdown; challenges facing the Supreme Court and our legal system; how faith communities are stepping up to protect vulnerable populations; and the critical role of courage in defending democratic institutions. With 42 million Americans, including children, veterans, and working families, at risk of losing food benefits – ostensibly due to the government shutdown, a coalition led by the Rhode Island Council of Churches and Democracy Forward sued the administration to restore these benefits – and won. Skye's message is clear: We can't wish our way out of challenging times - we must go through them, together, with courage and community. She stresses that “Courage is the new currency" for creating positive change, and legal action remains a powerful tool for protecting citizens' rights. The episode begins with a short visit with Rev. Rachel Griffin-Allison, Senior Pastor at Oak Lawn United Methodist Church in Dallas, Texas. With the philosophy "Silence is not love", her congregation painted their church steps as a rainbow flag in an act of sacred resistance to Governor Abbott’s decree that rainbow-colored crosswalks must be removed from the state. This simple but powerful act can serve as inspiration for each of us to take action where we are, how we can. About Skye Perryman and Democracy Forward: Skye Perryman is a lawyer and the President & CEO of Democracy Forward, a non-partisan national legal organization. Under her leadership, Democracy Forward uses litigation, regulatory engagement, and policy work to defend democracy, protect civil rights and social progress, and challenge unlawful executive action. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 m
  • Ye Gods: Scott Carter 's Journey from Comedy to Spiritual Exploration

    Ye Gods: Scott Carter 's Journey from Comedy to Spiritual Exploration
    Nov 1 2025
    This week The State of Belief features the fascinating Scott Carter, creator, executive producer, and host of the Ye Gods with Scott Carter podcast. In this episode, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush and Scott explore the intersections of belief, doubt, and the moral codes that guide us. Notable ideas include: The Power of Intentional Curiosity: Scott shares his transformative journey following a near-death experience due to asthma. This epiphany moment led him to make a profound commitment: to engage openly with discussions about religion and spirituality without sarcasm or dismissal. His intentional curiosity opened doors to understanding diverse beliefs and perspectives, showing that being open-hearted can lead to deeper connections and insights. Art as a Spiritual Medium: Throughout the conversation, Scott emphasizes the role of art in exploring spirituality. He believes that creativity can serve as a powerful conduit for understanding and expressing our beliefs. Whether through theater, comedy, or storytelling, art allows us to engage with complex themes of existence and morality. Navigating Life 's Challenges with Compassion: Scott's experiences in the competitive world of television, particularly on shows like Politically Incorrect, taught him the importance of compassion in every interaction. He shares how he strives to treat everyone—guests, colleagues, and audiences—with respect and love. Be sure to hear this enlightening episode as we explore these themes and more! Scott’s insights are not only thought-provoking but also serve as a guide for navigating our own beliefs and interactions in a complex world. More About Scott Carter and Ye Gods Scott Carter is the creator, executive producer, and host of the Ye Gods with Scott Carter podcast, where he invites comedians, writers, thinkers, and artists to talk about belief, doubt, and the moral codes that guide them. Scott has 21 Emmy nominations and many, many industry awards for his work in television, where he served as producer and writer for shows like Politically Incorrect with Bill Maher and Real Time with Bill Maher. He's been a stand-up comedian. He's also a playwright whose works cover culture, spirituality, and storytelling. They've been produced in cities all across the US and abroad. The Ye Gods podcast gets into the spiritual beliefs and guiding principles of a variety of guests, going in depth with notable individuals from various fields with no judgment and no agenda. Ye Gods is created with Southwest Florida's WGCU Public Media and is distributed by the NPR Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 m