The Collective Journey: How Our Faith Shapes Individuality and Community

When the ground beneath you crumbles and your world is riddled with loss, where do you find the strength to navigate the uncharted waters of grief? Nancy Reeves, from Brentwood Presbyterian Church, bravely opens up about her personal story of heartache and the resilience of her spirit.  She shares a poignant reflection that tested her faith and how music that helped pave the path to healing.

In an episode that is as touching as it is insightful, Nancy discusses how the unexpected passing of her partner and mother within a short span shook the very foundations of her life. She explains how she found solace in the arts and the steadfast support of her church community. Her story is a profound reminder that amidst the depths of sorrow, there remains a hearth within our souls, a sanctuary where faith and love persist.  Through her testament, we're reminded of the enduring power of faith and the arts in guiding us through the darkest of times.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

When the weight of the world seems unbearable, where do you turn for strength? Carol Maddon found her answer in an unlikely form—a tattoo, a symbol of her profound personal transformation and renewed faith. Embracing vulnerability, Carol recounts the tumultuous days of the mid-1980s that led her to the brink of despair. Through her gripping narrative, she shares with us the moment an unexpected figure, Scott, stepped into her life. His persistent faith despite his own battles with addiction sparked a light in Carol that ignited a journey toward healing and divine connection.

Embark on an intimate exploration of resilience as Carol takes us through her life-altering experiences, from the depths of addiction to the peace she now knows. The conversation unveils the potency of a simple Biblical message found in Micah 6-8, a verse that Carol believes holds the key to resolving humanity's most complex challenges. Her story is a testament to the power of faith, and the peace that comes with surrendering to a higher power. Listeners are invited to discover how embracing resilience and fostering a relationship with God can lead to a most transformative and enriching life.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As we usher in the reflective season of Lent, Pastor Lora  East invites you to join her on a journey of spiritual discovery and transformation. Embarking from the solemnity of Ash Wednesday, we'll traverse together through moments of self-examination and repentance, seeking the profound lessons of Psalm 51. The ashes we receive are not just reminders of our mortality, but signals of the rebirth to come through Christ. This episode is an invitation to explore the depths of our faith, as we prepare our hearts for the joyous celebration of Easter, and to contemplate the sustaining role of our beliefs in the face of life's inevitable challenges.

In our sacred space at Brentwood Presbyterian Church, we gather not just as a congregation but as a community committed to nurturing resilient faith. Our reflection on adversity isn't just about enduring it, but finding strength and support within our belief and each other. I encourage you to immerse yourself in this conversation, where we aren't just passively listening but actively participating in the growth of our spiritual fortitude. Together, let's emerge from this season with a fortified sense of purpose and invigoration for the path that lies ahead.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As the dawn of 2024 breaks upon us, we extend the warmest wishes for a year filled with health, safety, and spiritual depth. This episode is a tender farewell to the old year, and a hopeful embrace of the new, weaving together the timeless story of Epiphany and the journey of the Magi with our modern-day quests for divine guidance. We explore the rich tradition found in the Gospel of Matthew and consider how, like the Magi, we too are called to follow the star in our own lives, seeking out the Christ child with gifts of our own hearts and spirits.

This season of reflection reaches its zenith as we share "A Blessing for the Seekers," an evocative poem by Reverend Sarah Speed. Her words serve as a beacon for all who wander in search of wonder, hope, and the presence of God. Together, we uncover the beauty in being seekers, the joy of our discoveries, and the profound simplicity in offering our lives as gifts. Through poetry and prayer, let us journey into 2024 with eyes wide open to the manifestations of God around us, sharing love and light with every step. Join me in celebrating a blessed New Year and a joyous Epiphany.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Where do you see the spark of the divine amidst the hum of daily life? Join me, Reverend Laura East, as I guide you through a Christmas reflection that might just reignite your awareness of God's constant presence. In this special holiday installment of Resilient Faith, brought to you with warmth from the Brentwood Presbyterian Church community, we unwrap the joy and hope that faith assures us, even when life whirls in disarray. Embrace the season with a heartwarming poem from Reverend Sarah Speed, "Everywhere and Always Right Here," which we've cherished during Advent and now in the celebration of Christmas Tide.

This episode is a tapestry of thoughtful musings, interwoven with the golden threads of God's love that show up in the simplest pleasures—pancake dinners, porch sittings, and the laughter shared with friends. As I share insights and personal stories, I invite you to become part of the conversation and contribute your own lines to this living poem. Reflect on where you've felt God's touch in your own experiences, and together, let's acknowledge the profound beauty of recognizing the sacred in our everyday lives. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more enriching discussions on nurturing a resilient faith through all seasons.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

As the candles of the Advent wreath flicker with hope and love, we find ourselves at the junction of anticipation and celebration; the sacred time when the fourth Sunday of Advent meets the joyous eve of Christ's birth. It's a moment ripe with divine wonder, and on today's episode of Resilient Faith, we invite you into a space of contemplation and jubilation, reflecting on the profound themes of the season. Let your heart be warmed by the special blessing from theologian Kate Bowler, as it echoes through our conversation, illuminating the nativity's promise of new beginnings and God's relentless love.

This year's transition to Christmas is a unique blend of tradition and reflection, with Taylor Swift's music harmonizing with Gospel truths, guiding our community worship. It's a powerful union of contemporary artistry and ancient faith, fostering resilience against life's trials. As we bid farewell to 2023 and cast our eyes toward the horizon of a new year, we extend an invitation to join us in embracing the peace and presence that only this time of year can bring. Through stories, songs, and scripture, this episode of Resilient Faith is a sanctuary of fellowship, designed to uplift and inspire as we journey together into the light of Christmas and beyond. Amen.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Imagine if we took a sweeping journey across time, tracing the complex dance between individualism and collectivism, dissecting its influence on society, religion, and pop culture. What would we discover about our own identities, our communities, and our shared humanity? That's exactly what we set out to do in this enlightening episode of Resilient Faith, drawing on the wisdom of Archbishop Desmond Tutu's interpretation of Ubuntu and the provocative lyrics of Taylor Swift. 

Join us as we dissect human history - from biblical tales of the Garden of Eden and the Tower of Babel to the rise of individuality in the Western world. We'll grapple with ideas of Marxism, capitalism, and socialism, and even ponder Darwin's theory of survival of the fittest. As we unravel these threads, we'll also bring in the perspectives of great thinkers like Martin Luther King, Gandhi, and Pope Francis. We promise this intellectual journey will provoke thought, stir conversation, and just might reshape your understanding of our world. So let's dare to dive deep and journey together into this exploration of our individuality and our communal callings.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Ever found yourself paralyzed by fear, yet deep down, there's a spark of fearlessness that you long to harness? Well, we're about to dive into a soundtrack of resilience inspired by none other than pop icon Taylor Swift's song, "Fearless." Our journey navigates through the highs and lows of life, where we uncover how fear can often commandeer our emotions, actions, and ultimately, our lives. Yet, we also reveal the power of embracing that fearless, innocent part of ourselves.

But what's fearlessness without hope? We delve into the dichotomy of hope - its strength and its susceptibility. By reflecting on moments of unexpected sorrow, like the loss of a loved one, we stress the significance of both vulnerability and support during such times. Our journey of resilient faith is far from a life without fear; it’s about clinging to faith and hope even amidst fear and vulnerability. So, are you ready to dance in the storm with us and embrace life in Christ with innocence and fearlessness? Tune in and let's embark on this transformative odyssey together.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

What if we reframed being 'weird' as a symbol of divine distinction? Get ready to challenge societal norms and embrace your unique imprint of God's image as we delve into a faith-based exploration of diversity and individuality. Drawing inspiration from Taylor Swift's powerful lyrics and her mesmerizing performance at the Eras tour, we revel in the beauty of God's creation, celebrating how our differences enrich the world with a mosaic of God's glory. As we embark on the new year, we invite you to shine brightly as a beacon of divine love in your community, embracing the distinctive color you add to God's diverse canvas.

How does walking with Jesus transform us in a way that we stand out, a little 'weird', in the world? Our faith should reshape our values, priorities and relationships - daring us to challenge societal norms. With an intriguing glance at the church's historic alliance with the state, we discuss the recent drift towards societal irrelevance. But let's not view this shift as a loss. Instead, we see it as a golden opportunity for the church to reassess its beliefs and stand firm against societal pressure to conform. So, come and embrace the weird with us, let your faith be the light that guides your path. We look forward to embarking on this thought-provoking journey with you.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch

Welcome to Resilient Faith, the Podcast! This is our most popular episode from 2020, so enjoy! Happy Thanksgiving from BPC. 

This guided meditation and contemplative practice will help you connect and reset....mind, body and spirit.

Today's practice will help you share loving kindness in the world.

As you explore the resilient power within you, remember this scripture:

"We walk by faith, and not by sight"- 2 Corinthians 5:7

This is a guided meditation to support your journey to live a fully present life, and a deeper understanding of the resilient power within you.  Opportunities to find deeper resilience within ourselves can come when life seems most challenging. This podcast is to help you develop that resilience and connection with God. Being Resilient and having power starts with Faith. Resilient Faith is sponsored by Brentwood Presbyterian Church in West Los Angeles, California.

You can follow Resilient Faith on Facebook @bpcteam and on Instagram @bpc_usa

If you would like to donate to this meditation, please go to Brentwood Presbyterian Church.

Support us here:
https://www.bpcusa.org/financial-ministry/

BPC Youtube Channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/BrentwoodPresbyterianChurch