The Orchard Podcast

"Epiphany 2024", a transformative exploration of lectionary readings integrating timeless stories into our lives. Discover profound insights each week, fostering personal growth and community transformation. Infuse your days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us toward clarity and purpose in a world of compassion and justice.

This week, Lead Pastor Scott Hodge reminds us about the importance of Transfiguration Sunday as we prepare ourselves for the Lenten Season.

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Question for contemplation and conversation:

How do I avoid facing the pain and difficulties in my life through behaviors that are not a true source of comfort?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

"Epiphany 2024", a transformative exploration of lectionary readings integrating timeless stories into our lives. Discover profound insights each week, fostering personal growth and community transformation. Infuse your days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us toward clarity and purpose in a world of compassion and justice.

This week, Anna Hammond reminds us that, as Christians, we live in a liminal space; a space of the now-and-not-yet Kingdom of Heaven, in which we are called to serve others and bring light into this broken world.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

God’s light is all around us. Where have you seen God’s light? Where would you like to see it?

In Jesus’ presence, Peter’s mother-in law was given the energy to serve. What practices might help you draw near to Christ’s presence in your life so you can have the energy to serve?

It took time, but eventually Peter learned to put humble service ahead of a desire for glory and power. Where in your life are you learning to do this?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

"Epiphany 2024", a transformative exploration of lectionary readings integrating timeless stories into our lives. Discover profound insights each week, fostering personal growth and community transformation. Infuse your days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us toward clarity and purpose in a world of compassion and justice.

This week as we look at the Gospel of Mark, in which a man possessed by an evil spirit confronts Jesus, Lead Pastor Scott Hodge reminds us that wherever we find evil and darkness we also find Christ, bringing healing and wholeness.

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Enneagram Survey

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

"Epiphany 2024" offers a fresh exploration of the Epiphany season's lectionary readings, integrating these timeless stories into our contemporary lives. This series is a voyage of discovery, delving into themes of revelation and divine presence, and their relevance today. Each week, we'll uncover the profound insights of Epiphany, connecting them to our daily lives and challenges. Our aim is to cultivate personal growth and community transformation, fostering a world of greater compassion and justice. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we infuse our days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us with clarity and purpose.

On this episode, Benjamin Jay Thomas shares his observations about the nature of the divine found in the story of Jonah and Nineveh.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

In what ways have you experienced or witnessed the redemptive nature of the divine in your own life or in the lives of others?

Where are you in Jonah’s story? Running from a call? Coming to terms with past mistakes? Crying out to God from the belly of the whale? On the beach, ready for real change?

How do you differentiate between feeling guilty and living with a posture of repentance? Can you share a personal experience where repentance led to transformative action in your life?

What are some beliefs or perceptions about the divine that have evolved for you over time? How has this evolution impacted your spiritual practice and outlook on life?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

"Epiphany 2024" offers a fresh exploration of the Epiphany season's lectionary readings, integrating these timeless stories into our contemporary lives. This series is a voyage of discovery, delving into themes of revelation and divine presence, and their relevance today. Each week, we'll uncover the profound insights of Epiphany, connecting them to our daily lives and challenges. Our aim is to cultivate personal growth and community transformation, fostering a world of greater compassion and justice. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we infuse our days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us with clarity and purpose.

On this episode, Anna Hammond takes us into the lectionary readings for this week and invites us to open our hearts to this truth: bidden or unbidden, God is always present.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Where do you see yourself in these stories, these Scriptures?

Have you ever felt a sense of God working in your life or in the life of someone close to you? What helped you notice that?

How can you stay present and mindful in order to listen and to follow?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

"Epiphany 2024" offers a fresh exploration of the Epiphany season's lectionary readings, integrating these timeless stories into our contemporary lives. This series is a voyage of discovery, delving into themes of revelation and divine presence, and their relevance today. Each week, we'll uncover the profound insights of Epiphany, connecting them to our daily lives and challenges. Our aim is to cultivate personal growth and community transformation, fostering a world of greater compassion and justice. Join us on this enlightening journey, as we infuse our days with the spirit of Epiphany, guiding us with clarity and purpose.

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over this series, we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

In this bonus episode of the podcast, Anna Hammond reads the lectionary scriptures for the fourth week of Advent.

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Lectionary Readings for Week 4 of Advent (Year B):

2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Luke 1:46-55
Psalm 89:1-4, 19-26
Romans 16:25-27
Luke 1:26-38

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over this series we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

This week, Anna and Ben Hammond along with Benjamin Jay Thomas share insights about Luke 1:46-55, otherwise known as Mary's Magnificat, and how the subversive song from more than 2,000 years ago can inspire us today.

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Check out this bonus episode to hear the Lectionary Readings for this week.

Lectionary Readings for Week 3 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
Luke 1:46-55
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over the next few weeks, we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

In this bonus episode of the podcast, Anna Hammond reads the lectionary scriptures for the third week of Advent.

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Lectionary Readings for Week 3 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 61:1-4, 8-11
Psalm 126
Luke 1:46-55
1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
John 1:6-8, 19-28

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over this series we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

This week we take a look at Mark 1:1-8, which finds John the Baptist preparing the way for the Lord, and Lead Pastor Scott Hodge asks us to consider what new place and way of being might God be initiating us into in this Advent season.

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Check out this bonus episode to hear the Lectionary Readings for this week.

Lectionary Readings for Week 2 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15
Mark 1:1-8

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over the next few weeks, we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

In this bonus episode of the podcast, Anna Hammond reads the lectionary scriptures for the second week of Advent.

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Lectionary Readings for Week 2 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 40:1-11
Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
2 Peter 3:8-15
Mark 1:1-8

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over this series we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

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Check out this bonus episode to hear the Lectionary Readings for this week.

Lectionary Readings for Week 1 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 64:1-9
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 13:24-37

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Virgin birth, shepherds visited by angels, and apocalyptic scriptures depicting thieves in the night – how do we reconcile these traditional faith narratives with our evolving spirituality? Over the next few weeks, we will delve into these intriguing questions as we journey through the weekly lectionary readings. We invite you to be part of these very real and heartfelt conversations, exploring these themes together.

In this bonus episode of the podcast, Anna Hammond reads the lectionary scriptures for the first week of Advent.

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Lectionary Readings for Week 1 of Advent (Year B):

Isaiah 64:1-9
Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Mark 13:24-37

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

In this special holiday episode, Benjamin, Scott and Anna lead us through a simple gratitude practice. Our whole team is grateful for you, our community of listeners. Have a safe and peace-filled Thanksgiving celebration!

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Download the Thanksgiving Table Liturgy (assembled by our friends at The Practice)
Stream or download “Welcome Home ” by Shine Song Collective

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 6

This week as we conclude our "From ME to We" series, Anna Hammond will guide us into greater awareness about how our individual actions impact our greater communities and the world we live in.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What is ONE place where you’d like to intentionally grow as a weaver of community?
What kind of community would YOU like to weave? When you think of “building a place to belong,” what comes to mind? How can you participate in weaving the Kingdom of God into this world?
What is one idea, question, feeling, or quote from this “From Me to We” series that you’d like to take with you into this next season?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

On this special episode, Lead Pastor Scott Hodge speaks on his firsthand, transformative journey to the Holy Land and leads us in centering our intentions on fostering peace in the Middle East.

The Orchard believes in the power of creating intentional spaces to engage our hearts and minds with ideas of positive change. Come together with us in the spirit of unity, compassion, and hope, as we extend our collective prayers for peace, aiming for their impact to resonate far beyond the bounds of our community.

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 5

Do you have the sense there’s something more for you to bring to this world, but often find yourself too overcommitted and exhausted to bring it? This week, Benjamin Jay Thomas guides us into conversation about the way healthy boundaries can set us up to honor the unique offering we have for this world while opening ourselves to experience the joy of interconnection with the others around us.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

In what areas of your life do you find it most challenging to set boundaries? Why do you think that is?
Which of the two extreme types o boundaries do YOU tend to gravitate toward - Porous or Rigid — why do you think that is?
How do your personal boundaries reflect your values and priorities?
Can you identify a recent situation where a lack of boundaries led to discomfort or conflict? How could healthy boundaries have changed the outcome?
Can you identify a recent situation where healthy boundaries help serve your values and priorities?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

"Set Boundaries, Find Peace" - Nedra Glover Tawwab (book)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 4

This week Scott Hodge explores the power of being PRESENT over finding quick solutions, addressing our natural tendency to "fix" things and guide us toward offering non-judgmental support instead. Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your spiritual journey and enhance your interpersonal relationships.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Can you recall a time when someone was truly present with you in a moment of difficulty, without trying to fix the situation? How did that make you feel?
What internal barriers or fears do you experience that make it challenging for you to simply "be" with someone who is going through a hard time?
Do you identify as a 'minimizer,' 'teacher,' or 'solver' when faced with someone else's difficulties? What barriers does this role create for you in being truly present with someone?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 3

How hard can LISTENING be? It’s just passively sitting there with our ears open, right?. Well, it turns out that while many of us might have great HEARING, we are terrible at LISTENING. As we continue our journey moving from “ME to WE”, Benjamin Jay Thomas explores what it means for us to truly listen… to ourselves, to each other and to the Divine.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Reflect on the empathic listening exercise. What was challenging about it, and what did you learn from the experience?
How do you usually find yourself listening in conversations - to respond or to understand? What steps could you take to shift towards more empathic listening?
How might the practice of INNER listening change the way you interact with others, and how does it resonate with your own spiritual journey?
As a community, how can we support each other in becoming better listeners? What steps can we take collectively to foster a culture of empathic listening within and beyond our community?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 2

In our world that's often defined by masks, labels and facades, true connection takes place when we let our guard down to be seen and understood.
On this episode, Anna Hammond will share some practical ways we can let vulnerability transform our everyday relationships.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Can you recall a time in your life when you felt the need to hide your true self to fit in? What was that experience like for you, and how did it make you feel?
What are some things that genuinely bring you joy? Have you ever felt hesitant to express them to others?
When have you felt like you truly belonged in a community or group? What made that experience different from merely fitting in?
What steps can you take to help create a community of true belonging in your own life, workplace, or faith community?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

FROM ME TO WE || WEEK 1

Longing for more authentic connections in your life? Do you want to be part of something larger than yourself? This series is designed to guide us through the essential skills and mindsets needed to build a stronger, more vibrant community. Whether you have a crew of friends or you've been craving more connection, there's something in this series for everyone. On this episode, Lead Pastor Scott Hodge kicks off the series by diving into our communal value of interdependence.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Reflecting on the human chains at Panama City Beach, when was the last time you actively reached out to be part of a collective solution, even if it meant stepping out of your comfort zone? How can you more intentionally foster such collective actions in your day-to-day life?

Thinking about the pitfalls of being overly independent, can you recall a time when prioritizing self-reliance led to feelings of isolation or disconnect? How might opening yourself to interdependent relationships have changed the outcome?
What fears or reservations do you have about leaning on others or allowing them to lean on you?How might embracing interdependence enrich both your personal growth and the quality of your relationships?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 13

This week we are thrilled to sit down with Jim Corti, the Artistic Director of Aurora’s Paramount Theater. Jim has been a transformative force in theater since launching the Broadway Series in 2011. Under his leadership, Paramount has won 16 Jeff Awards, including Best Large Musical and Best Director titles for iconic productions like Les Misérables and Sweeney Todd. A Broadway veteran himself, Corti's career spans acting, choreography, and directing, making him a triple-threat in the industry. His influence extends from the New York stages of Ragtime and A Chorus Line to critical acclaim in Chicago theater.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Jim Corti talked about how directing felt like a "calling" to him, a responsibility for something moving through him that had a "greater reach." Have you ever felt a similar calling in your life? What was it, and how did you respond?

Jim mentioned the British study about how audiences can synchronize their heartbeats during a powerful performance. Have you ever had a moment where you felt truly connected to others while witnessing art or a significant event? How did that experience impact you?

The 'Bold Series' is known for presenting plays that don't shy away from difficult issues. What topics or stories have you encountered that you think deserve more attention in the creative arts?

Jim talked about the importance of asking yourself, "What do I really care about?" Take a moment to ponder this question. What is it that you truly care about, and how are you expressing that in your life?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

The Paramount Theatre in Aurora, Illinois

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 12

This week we invite you into the story of Lanecia Rouse Tinsley. Lanecia is a creative based in Houston, TX. Her work includes photography, painting, mixed media, teaching, writing & speaking. Studio D at Hardy & Nance Streets Studios is where her creativity often blooms. Most days you will find her there sipping on a cup of coffee with music playing as she creates work that reflects what life has revealed to her about healing, freedom, and beauty found in everyday experiences. Acrylics, pastels, charcoal, paper, and encaustic wax are my mediums of choice. Life has taught Lanecia that we all have creative potential and the need to encounter beauty. As an artist, she believes her call is to create opportunities for people to encounter beauty through the work of her hands & the spaces she cultivates for them to tap into their creativity.

This week’s conversation is produced by our friends at The Work of the People. For more visit theworkofthepeople.com

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Where have you experienced that cycle of birth, loss, and rebirth? What were the low points and hight points of that story for you?

What leap have you taken where the fear of not doing the thing was greater than the fear of doing it? What leap might you be flirting with right now, getting closer to that tipping point?

What types of supports and community do you have in your life to work through your own cycles of birth, loss, and rebirth? How might you want to intentionally strengthen those networks and supports during this upcoming season of life?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 11

This weekend we sit down with our friend, multidisciplinary visual artist Sara Mock. Sara Mock is a lifelong creative who has learned to follow her curiosity into art mediums as diverse as doll creation, pattern design and coin making. Join us for a conversation about developing a lifestyle that fuels creativity regardless of its particular format.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Sara talks about the three words of “play, create, and heal". Which of these most resonates with you? Which of these concepts comes easy to you? Which are tough for you? How could you tap even more into playing, creating, and healing?

What’s YOUR growth edge? What are you doing right now that might be at the edge of your comfortably? What supports could you put in place to help you more fully lean INTO that growth edge during this season.

Where is that fork in the road showing up in life for you? Where are the daily opportunities for you to choose the path of curiosity over the path of fear?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Sara's Spoonflower (surface patterns) Account
Sara's Instagram

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 9

This week, we're excited to have Joy Thomas and Jenelle Landgraf with us. They're identical twins who live with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a degenerative eye condition. For years, they kept it a secret, but about 10 years ago, they started writing about it on their blog, DoubleVisionBlog.com. Their goal is simple: to show that "there is no right way to go blind." Through their blog, they've touched many lives, both in the disabled community and beyond. Stay tuned for an honest conversation that might just change the way you see the world.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What resonated with you the most from today's conversation? Was there a particular moment or insight that shifted your perspective or inspired you to approach life more creatively?

Brené Brown once said, "Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome." How does this idea connect to your own experiences of being misunderstood as a child or young adult? Have you had to show up and be vulnerable to change that narrative?

Can you think of an area in your life where embracing self-acceptance could improve your interactions with the people around you?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Joy & Jenelle's Blog

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 8

This week, we continue our "Here to Create" series with more thought-provoking conversation about identity and the value of art that helps us feel seen and heard with Derek Webb.
Derek is a singer/songwriter and veteran influential voice within and beyond the Christian Music Industry. Over the course of the past 25 years, Derek has made a career out of making forward-leaning art - first with his band Caedmon’s Call, which he co-founded in the mid-90’s, and then as a solo artist. He is well known for his progressive musicality and his unwaveringly honest lyrics - calling into question everything from our relationship with politics to evolving gender issues. His most recent album, The Jesus Hypothesis, was released this spring and is billed as his “first ‘Christian & Gospel record’ in over 10 years”.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

When have you experienced art that really sees or hears you?

What about this story compels or intrigues you? Is there a part that challenges you or resonates with you in your own place of creativity?

What are some boundaries that can help you engage with social media in a healthy way?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

"The Jesus Hypothesis" - Derek Webb (album)
"Boys Will Be Girls" - Derek Webb ft. Flamy Grant Music Video
"Bible Belt Baby" - Flamy Grant (album)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 7

This week, we are thrilled to welcome Derek Webb, a singer/songwriter and veteran influential voice within and beyond the Christian Music Industry. Over the course of the past 25 years, Derek has made a career out of making forward-leaning art - first with his band Caedmon’s Call, which he co-founded in the mid-90’s, and then as a solo artist. He is well known for his progressive musicality and his unwaveringly honest lyrics - calling into question everything from our relationship with politics to evolving gender issues. His most recent album, The Jesus Hypothesis, was released this spring and is billed as his “first ‘Christian & Gospel record’ in over 10 years”.

A true fringe voice, Derek’s work is deeply resonant with The Orchard’s values and mission, and we can’t wait of you to get to know him!

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

How do you see labels and categories as helpful or unhelpful (or both) for creativity?

What is the weirdest or most peculiar part of your story?

"The narrower the deeper" : what is the invitation in this phrase for you today?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 6

As we continue our series, "Here To Create", Scott and Benjamin have a conversation with creative powerhouse, Mel McGowan.

Mel is the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Storyland Studios. With a rich background in film and design, Mel's journey into the world of creativity took a remarkable turn during his decade-long tenure at the Disney Company. As an Imagineer, he played pivotal roles in projects like Disney's California Adventure, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, and Downtown Disney. Mel's expertise extends beyond Disney, as he champions the art of spatial storytelling through his work at Storyland Studios. His legacy is deeply intertwined with crafting stories in three-dimensional spaces, making places come alive with narrative and meaning.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Recollect a moment from your childhood where you felt a burst of creativity, similar to Mel's Star Wars room. How did that shape or influence your perception of your own creative potential?
Mel's story about 'My Refuge House' highlighted the significance of empathy in creation. Can you think of a time where your creative endeavors were influenced by deep empathy or understanding?
Taking inspiration from the idea of being 'Image Bearers', how can you tap into your inherent creative spirit in your everyday life? What 'canvases' exist around you that you've perhaps overlooked?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:
Storyland Studios website
"Culture Making" - Andy Crouch (book)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com
Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 5

This week we welcome back our friend, Adam Mock, for an encore conversation about mountain biking, mental health and risk-taking that leads to creative magic in our lives. In case you missed last week’s conversation, Adam Mock is a Leadership Coaching Specialist and Transformational Partner who uses his "Rescue Your Dreams" approach to develop organizations and individuals to their highest levels of effectiveness. Adam is also an avid mountain biker and a vital part of the thriving SoCal MTB scene. His YouTube Channel has opened up opportunities for him to connect his passion for human development with his love of outdoor sports.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

How do you like to "play"? How do you tap into your creative self?
Can you recall a time when you took a risk to gain something (rather than a risk to avoid loss)?
Mary Davis once said, "To walk in nature is to witness a thousand miracles." What does this quote say TO you? What does this quote say ABOUT you?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Adam's website
Adam's Youtube Channel

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 4

This week we sit down with our dear friend, Adam Mock for a conversation about creativity and human development. Adam Mock is a Leadership Coaching Specialist and Transformational Partner who uses his Rescue Your Dreams™ approach to develop organizations and individuals to their highest levels of effectiveness.

With over 25 years of leadership experience Adam has the privilege of facilitating workshops and trainings at global brands like Nike, Jordan Brand, and PayPal. He also works 1-on-1 with Olympic gold medalists, hall of famers, and world champions.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Adam told a story of struggling to receive a compliment about his creativity as a young person. Do you have any similar stories? Why do you think it’s so hard for us to receive positive feedback?
We talked a bit about DREAMS of ours and how they get buried. Why do you think so many of us struggle with this? How do YOU think our dreams end up getting buried?
Adam shared how important SELF-KNOWLEDGE is, and one pathway into that is to identify your 3-5 CORE VALUES. He gave us 3 steps in helping uncover and identify those:
Reflect back to when you were age 6-12: what sparked your curiosity then? what things could you NOT NOT do back then? What value do you think you were displaying at that time?
In the past 2-5 years - when did you feel you were living or being at your most “ON PURPOSE” or ALIVE? What values do you think you were tapping in to then?
Ask people who know you well what they think your values are.

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Adam's website
Adam's Youtube Channel
"Give yourself permission to be creative" - Ethan Hawke (TED Talk)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 3

Get ready for a captivating conversation as Anna and Benjamin delve into the spiritual side of creativity with Danielle Casali, a celebrated mosaic muralist in the Aurora, Illinois area, whose art inspires and unites communities.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What are one or two ideas or themes that stick out to you from today’s conversation with Danielle?
How has opening yourself to authenticity and vulnerability helped you to grow?
What habits, rituals, or spiritual practices might help you connect with stillness, be centered, and access creativity?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Danielle's website
Dekalb City Hall Mural
"The Gifts of Inperfection" - Brene Brown (book)
Lake Shore Drive Mural
Nikki Walton “New Growth Now” podcast
Enneagram RHETI test
St. Charles Library Moth Sculpture

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

HERE TO CREATE || WEEK 2

We dive into our series "Here to Create" with a conversation between Lead Pastor Scott Hodge and friend of the Orchard, Dave Gibbons. Dave is a creative pastor, futurist, activist, and steadfast advocate for the 'misfits' in our society. In today's conversation he gives invaluable insight into how we can reframe the challenges we face and turn them into creative opportunities.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What are one or two ideas or themes that stick out to you or resonate w/ you from today’s conversation with Dave?
What are 1 or 2 things that “kill” or get in the way of you living a creative life? What are 2-3 things that FUEL your creativity?

How has reframing a challenge or difficulty enabled you to use that challenge as a creative opportunity? Is there some “reframing” you need to do around a particular challenge, stressor or difficulty that could potentially turn it into a catalyst for something new, good and creative?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

XEALOTS: Defying the Gravity of Normality - Dave Gibbons (book)
Monkey and the Fish - Dave Gibbons (book)
https://www.davegibbons.org

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

We're kicking off our new series, "Here to Create", celebrating creativity as spiritual practice, as Lead Pastor Scott Hodge shares some thoughts about creativity and how it manifests in all of us. Throughout this series, we look forward to conversations with different creative individuals, from musicians and visual artists to entrepreneurs and innovators. "Here to Create" will seek to inspire, challenge, and affirm everyone in their own creative journey. We're glad you've joined us and hope to have you with us in the coming weeks!

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Who in your life has embodied creative living and had an impact on you? How have they inspired you to embrace your own creativity?

What does 'living with eyes wide open' mean to you in the context of your own life? Can you share a time when your sensitivity to your surroundings led to a new understanding or action?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week, as we conclude our “Rethinking The Bible” series, we take a little extra time to respond to a question about how to engage in healthy conversations about the Bible with the people around us.

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

”Reading the Bible Right” - Brian Zahn (poem/quote )

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week we conclude our series, “Rethinking The Bible” by responding to a few final questions and reflecting on how we’ve all grown and been shaped by this journey together.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What have been helpful rhythms for you to engage with the Bible on a regular basis? Are there certain books, translations or reading plans that you have found helpful?

What has been your experience teaching children and young people to engage with the Bible and conversations about spirituality?

How have you been impacted by the conversations we’ve had the past 10 weeks? Where were you challenged? What new perspectives may have even shifted your thinking? What are you taking away from all this?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

We Make The Road While Walking - Brian McLaren (book)
The Divine Hours - Phyllis Tickle (book)
A Year With Thomas Merton - Daily Meditations from His Journals (book)
Things Hidden - Richard Rohr (book)
Center for Action and Contemplation Daily Meditations
”Reading the Bible Right” - Brian Zahn (poem/quote )
Our Bible App

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

We’ve opened our virtual mail bag again to respond to questions that have come in during our “Rethinking the Bible” series. This week, a burning question: What does the Bible say about HELL?

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

How has your understanding of hell changed over the course of your life? What has impacted that? (You might consider your faith background, your experiences and relationships, and cultural touchstones from classics like Dante’s Inferno to modern ones like the Left Behind book series or the sitcom, The Good Place.)

How do your thoughts, ideas, and beliefs about hell shape your actions, consciously or unconsciously?

If you personally are struggling or have struggled with the idea of hell, what do you wish someone—a mentor, elder or spiritual leader in your community—would say to you?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Love Wins - Rob Bell (book)

Quote from Rob Bell ("Does God get what he wants?...")

Razing Hell - Sharon L. Baker (book)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

Over the next couple weeks we’ll be opening up our virtual mail bag and pulling out some questions that have come in during our series “Rethinking the Bible”. This week we respond to a question that brings up a conversation about religious pluralism, inclusivity and the concept of “salvation”.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What thoughts, feelings or ideas did this conversation bring up for you today?

For those of you who grew up in the Christian faith, when did you first become aware of other religious or spiritual paths distinct from Christianity? How has that awareness influenced your faith journey?

In his writings (see quote included below), C.S. Lewis hinted at a more inclusive understanding of salvation in some of his writings. What are your thoughts on his perspective? Could this inclusivity apply to people of other faiths, or those who don't identify with any religion?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

One River, Many Wells - Matthew Fox (Book)
A Generous Orthodoxy - Brian D. McLaren (Book)
"There are people who do not accept the full Christian doctrine about Christ but who are so strongly attracted by Him that they are His in a much deeper sense than they themselves understand. There are people in other religions who are being led by God’s secret influence to concentrate on those parts of their religion which are in agreement with Christianity, and who thus belong to Christ without knowing it." - C.S. Lewis, Mere Christianity

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

As we continue our "Rethinking the Bible" series, we take some time to engage with the scriptures through the sacred practice of Lectio Divina.
Lectio Divina is a contemplative way of reading the Bible that encourages us to read with our whole self, including thoughts, feelings, experiences, and hopes. This practice is a way of listening to God's voice through the words of the Bible, and it can be a meaningful way to connect with scripture.

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom - John O'Donohue (Book)

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

When we mentioned the “unfolding” story of the Bible, we didn’t mean an actual sheet unfolding. But now that you mention it …

This week, Anna, Scott and Benjamin consider the story of Peter’s disruptive vision about a sheet of animals and what it means to “change the rules” in Acts 10. How can we navigate the space between what ancient scripture says and humankind’s growing, evolving understandings of God, people, and the world?

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What do you want to remember and consider about the conversation today?

If you think back over your life, what are the disruptions that have expanded your faith journey?

What are some principles or practices that have helped you – or might help you – remember that your roots are in Christ during seasons of disruption?

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Read the full story of Peter’s trance and transformation in Acts.
Our Tricycle for Forward Movement - Richard Rohr (Article)
“It’s possible to resist the very growth and change and expanding consciousness that God desires for you by appealing to your religious convictions.” - Rob Bell in What is the Bible ? (Book)
The Wisdom Jesus - Cynthia Bourgeault (Book)
A People’s History of Christianity - Diana Butler Bass (Book)
Anna's benediction from Ephesians 3

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

In our on-going series, "Rethinking the Bible", Scott, Benjamin, and Anna have a conversation about reading the Bible with an understanding of the complexities of the people who wrote it and the complexities of the people who read it. With that understanding in mind, they also look at how Jesus' countercultural nature changes everything.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What are some of the ways you see the Bible mirroring the complexities and ups and downs of our own human journey?

When in your life have you experienced a spiritual breakthrough or growth while in the midst of a mistake or failure?

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Scripture passages mentioned in this week's podcast: Jesus and the Samaritan Woman , The Woman Caught in Adultery , Parable of Good Samaritan , The Incarnation

What question do you have about the Bible? Email us at info@theorchardcommunity.com

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

What do we do with one of the most difficult passages in the Old Testament? The story of Abraham and Isaac is deeply troubling. This week, join Benjamin, Scott, and Anna for a conversation about the ways we’re rethinking this hard-to-read part of the Bible.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What stuck out to you in the story we explored today?
What “earlier parts” of your life have yet to be accepted and integrated? What are some ways you can trust God to help you see and understand those parts in light of where your story is headed?
Reading from a literary perspective, taking into account the real people and real setting this text was written for, are there any themes sticking out to you today?
What does this story say to you about…
“Blind obedience” vs. questioning authority?
Divine intervention?
Our perception of the nature of God?

How does this story speak to you about the countless difficult decisions we need to make on a regular basis?

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Mentioned in this week's podcast: Read Genesis 22:1-19

What question do you have about the Bible? Email us at info@theorchardcommunity.com

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week we continue our series, "Rethinking the Bible," by taking some time to consider how we approach and engage with the Bible in a healthy, responsible, and curious way.

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Things mentioned in this week's episode:

Read Genesis 22:1-19

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What question do you have about the Bible? Email us at info@theorchardcommunity.com

To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week, as we continue our conversation series called “Rethinking the Bible”, Scott Hodge and Anna Hammond are joined by friend of The Orchard, Samuel Marks, to discuss how the Bible is a community library of scripture written and edited by different people in different places at different times. With that said, we ask ourselves how can we understand more about the divine by reading words written by humans, and what does that mean for how we approach the Bible?

What question do you have about the Bible? Email us at info@theorchardcommunity.com

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

How has your understanding of how the Bible came to be changed as you've grown?

How does remembering that the Bible is a library of scripture written and edited by different people in different places at different times affect the way you approach it?

What are some ways we can shift our thinking from “The Bible says to me...” to “The scriptures teach us...”?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

This week, as we begin a new conversation series called “Rethinking the Bible”, we discuss the role the Bible has played in our lives. We reflect on the gift it has been to us and also the difficulties we've faced with it, including the Bible’s contradictions, violence, and its use as a weapon.

What question do you have about the Bible? Email us at info@theorchardcommunity.com

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

What has your personal experience been with the Bible?
In what ways has the Bible challenged you? Or, what challenges have you had engaging with the Bible?
What would you love to hear some conversation around when it comes to the Bible? Is there a specific topic, passage, story, book of the Bible you would like to hear some conversation around?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

For our inaugural episode, Anna Hammond, Scott Hodge and Benjamin Jay Thomas talk about the need for new forms of spiritual communities in a culture that's rapidly moving away from traditional, dogma-heavy churches. They talk about how each of our spiritual stories plays a significant role in shaping our lives and share a bit about the history of The Orchard Community.

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Questions for contemplation and conversation:

Jot down or share a brief version of your spiritual story.
What are some ways your faith and belief systems evolved over the years? How has that been difficult? How has it brought freedom into your life?
What are some values that guide you through all of life’s changes? What are some examples of times you’ve made important decisions based on your values?

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To learn more about The Orchard Community visit theorchardcommunity.com

Subscribe to Orchard Conversations in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com

The Orchard Community is a 100-year old spiritual community helping people become who they are created to be. We’re less interested in dogma and more interested in living out our values: Goodness & Beauty, Wholeness, Renewal, Interdependence, Hospitality, Peacemaking, Humility & Curiosity. From digital content (like this podcast), to local events and Table Gatherings we’re doing our best to evolve into a spiritual community for the next 100 years.

Orchard Conversations is a weekly podcast created by our team - conversations intended to spark further conversation.

Subscribe now in your favorite podcast app or at orchardconversations.com .

For more info about The Orchard visit theorchardcommunity.com