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REALigionREALigionSeason 4 Recap and ReflectionSeason 4, Episode 12 - The final episode of Season 4: What have we learned over these 4 seasons? Why did we start this podcast and what do we hope from its future? We remember the Jan 6 and the Tree of Life catastrophes, and wonder how big moments like these connect religion and faith to our lives. __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music ...2023-06-0727 minREALigionREALigionListener Question - Why are Christians at peace through difficulties?Season 4, Episode 11 - Listener Question! from a Jewish listener: "A friend is going through a really rough time with cancer, and I'm really amazed, impressed at the peace that my friend has because of her faith, and her belief in God's plans and God's will. I don't know any Jews like that. Why, what is it about Christianity that gives some people this incredible faith and comfort and peace that is enviable?" __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi...2023-05-1743 minREALigionREALigionFear, Awe, Reverence of GodSeason 4, Episode 10 - This week, the loaded words are Fear, Awe, Reverence of God. If God is good, then why does scripture imagine fear as our response?  What does the presence of God do to us? Which of these reactions are justified and wise, or immature and inappropriate? If we really know the real God, is it still fear, or does it become something else? __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky R...2023-04-2636 minREALigionREALigionHoly, Profane, Sacred, SacrilegiousSeason 4, Episode 9 - This week, the loaded words are Holy and Profane, Sacred and Sacrilegious. Is it beautifully holy or inappropriately sacrilegious for a Christian to put a Jewish Mezuzah on their door? Does our religious identity define which beliefs and practices are holy or profane, sacrilegious or sacred? Or, do our practices guide us toward holy? Using examples from our own congregations, we find moments that were considered sacrilegious, but were they? If something offends the heart of a religious person, does that make it offensive, or can holy and sacred be quite offensive to the religious?  2023-04-2049 minREALigionREALigionImago Dei, Original sin, Garden of Eden, ParadiseSeason 4, Episode 8 - This week, the loaded phrases are Imago Dei (image of God), "original sin", the Garden of Eden, and paradise. What does it mean that humanity is created by God in the "image" of God? If we are created in God's image, how does sin/evil enter into the world? The doctrine of "original sin" suggests the first humans made a sinful choice that had immediate consequences (losing the garden, suffering, working) and long term consequences (sin being passed down to all descendants). What are the Jewish and Christian options for thinking about sin in the garden...2023-04-1338 minREALigionREALigionSpiritual NOT Religious, the NONEs, Anti-InstitutionalSeason 4, Episode 7 - This week, the loaded phrase is "Spiritual, NOT Religious." Why are generations laying down the religious communities, beliefs, practices, and disciples of their ancestors? What do people need from religion? Did we stop providing it, or did the needs change? What kind of religion proves itself to be consistent with the God of Scriptures AND relevant in modern life? __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology...2023-04-0643 minREALigionREALigionMoney, Prosperity, Tithes, OfferingsSeason 4, Episode 6 - This week, the loaded terms are money, mammon, tithe, and offering. What is the property gospel? Why do some Christians follow it, instead of Jesus? Does Judaism have an equivalent? Should clergy know what people give? Can't service and time replace our need to give money? What did jubilee, the 7th year shabbat practice of forgiveness of debts, mean to the poor and the wealthy? Whew, maybe that's why this episode is almost an hour! __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ ...2023-04-0553 minREALigionREALigionPrayer, Worship, Ritual, Tradition, SacramentSeason 4, Episode 5 - This week, the loaded terms are prayer, worship, ritual, tradition, and sacrament. What do these words mean across our different faith communities? Do we define them, use them, and practice them similarly or differently? A Wikipedia Table of Denominations and Scarments recognized available here __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel...2023-03-0840 minREALigionREALigionBeing Clergy, Roles, Authorities, ExpectationsSeason 4, Episode 4 - This week... After a little about the "National Day of Hate" in Athens, GA, with anti-semitic pamphlets begin distributed (UGH) and a quick review of Philoxenia, love of the stranger, often translated as hospitality, as opposed to xenophobia, fear of the stranger... we dive into: Being clergy, the radically different understandings and expectations of what a clergyperson's roles and powers are across faiths, denominations, or congregations. How to Say the Shabbat Blessings - YouTubewww.youtube.com › watch __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gm...2023-03-0150 minREALigionREALigionChristians, Christianity, and IdentitySeason 4, Episode 3 - This weeks loaded terms are... Christian, Jews for Jesus, Messianic Jews, plus a few tidbits about how Jewish and Christian identity are different and unique but overlap. Wow, all that in one episode? __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel2023-02-2245 minREALigionREALigionIsrael, Jew, Hebrew, SemiteSeason 4, Episode 2 - This weeks loaded terms are... Israel, Jew, Hebrew, and Semite. Each of these words has a scriptural and historical root, but those meanings get lost in today's discourse. How can we all be more careful with these terms, more sensitive to the people they represent, and call out those who accidentally or intentionally misuse them for dangerous purposes? __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and...2023-02-0738 minREALigionREALigionSeason 4 IntroductionSeason 4, Episode 1 - We are BACK, and in this episode, we preview the selected topics for Season 4. And of course, we leave room for YOU, the listeners out there, to make suggestions for episode topics. So please, send us an email or DM with your suggestions! __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael...2023-01-2330 minREALigionREALigionSeason 3 RecapSeason 3, Episode 15 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. A season recap, reflecting on where we've been, what we've discussed and learned, and why we keep gathering and publishing these conversations. __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home...2022-06-0625 minREALigionREALigionCommunal Freedom, Faith WorkSeason 3, Episode 14 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - After the Uvalde shooting, do we have too much freedom? Are we using our personal freedom (rights?) in opposition to our own communities? How can we tip the balance back to where our communities support our healthy personal rights and freedoms, and our personal freedoms build up our safe and healthy communities? Scandinavia and their Ability to Balance Freedom and Responsibility 2022-05-3030 minREALigionREALigionB’nai Mitzvah, Killing JournalistsSeason 3, Episode 13 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - Adults in Eric's congregation just went through a b'mai mitzvah, or an adult ceremony of joining the covenant people, followed by a lovely time of fellowship, the first in a few years. What do these rites of passage mean in faith traditions? Why do some people of faith stop learning and growing? What does it mean to celebrate adult rites of passage in faith? 2022-05-2340 minREALigionREALigion3 Characteristics of Community, SesquicentennialSeason 3, Episode 12 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Joel's issue - A top executive at a brewery in NC discussed three key character traits needed in all who come together at the brewery... quality, integrity, and respect. Can a congregation abide by these three? What would it look like for our religious communities to have expectations of our people when they enter a religious community to show these three in order to have full access...2022-05-1632 minREALigionREALigionTriple Faith Violence, Christians on a PlaneSeason 3, Episode 11 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Joel's issue - In 2022, Christian Holy Week, Jewish Passover, and Muslim Ramadan fall beside one another on the same week. In Jerusalem, a divided multi-faith city, government forces interfered in religious worship services, and worshippers acted violently at their presence or in response. What can faith leaders do to move our people and leaders toward coexistence without violence? More than 150 Injured in Violence at Jerusalem...2022-04-2532 minREALigionREALigionHit the Rock, Rejecting ChurchSeason 3, Episode 10 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - At the Oscars, Will Smith slapped Chris Rock. How do we process violence? Is there any justification for the verbal violence and physical violence? What is the religious responsibility to turn the other cheek and accept violence, while never doing violence upon one another? Joel's issue - In an interview for a possible new Director of Music, Joel shares how a 20 year...2022-04-1837 minREALigionREALigionUniversal Context, Good ReligionSeason 3, Episode 9 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Joel's issue - Is the task of clergy, religion, theology to make the universal specific, or to stretch the specific toward the universal? If religion stays close to the context of the people, it will be comfortable but not point to a universal God. If religion doesn't fully enter the specific context of people, they will never sense the relevance that can invite them toward the universal...2022-03-2138 minREALigionREALigion4,000 Weeks, Judging FreedomSeason 3, Episode 8 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - Are we clear that our time is limited? When we consider our own finitude, does that depress us, or motivate us? How we spend time clearly communicates our religious values. Our choice of time management and use defines who we are more than many of our beliefs or opinions. So, can we (do we) spend our time in ways that matter? Obsidian...2022-03-1443 minREALigionREALigionForgiveness Boundaries, Ethical OilSeason 3, Episode 7 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - What does forgiveness look like? When a leader makes a mistake, how are we supposed to hold them accountable, and yet give them grace/room to fail under the unique pressures of their leadership position? Joel's issue - How do we square the ethical use of our monies? Every gallon of gas we buy is subsidizing the Russian war against Ukraine. Can...2022-03-0343 minREALigionREALigionBlocked Adoption, Priest WordsSeason 3, Episode 6 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - A Catholic priest is corrected and resigns for using "we baptize" instead of "I baptize" in the church liturgy. All those baptisms were considered null as well. What is the church saying or protecting by holding this line so vehemently? Pastor Resigns After Incorrectly Performing Thousands of Baptisms - The New York Times (nytimes.com) Joel's issue - A Jewish...2022-02-2843 minREALigionREALigionHomeless Hope, Cancelling ArtSeason 3, Episode 5 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - Can we love the art and reject the artist? When we need to hold an artist or leader accountable, do we cancel their art as well? If a sexual predator wrote songs for worship, can we continue to use those songs in worship? If we can't listen to Michael Jackson records, can we still read Moses or Paul? The Awareness Center, Inc...2022-02-1448 minREALigionREALigionSecure Hospitality, Faithful ScienceSeason 3, Episode 4 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - As religious people, what does safety mean under our theology? After the last hostage incident at a synagogue, how do we process our call to trust God and one another against our desire for safety and security? Can we truly love and serve the world and expect security for ourselves? Opinion | After Colleyville, What Does Hope Look Like for Jewish Parents...2022-02-0641 minREALigionREALigionCOVID Politics, School CensorshipSeason 3, Episode 3 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - Administrators at a Georgia school censored a teacher's display of a child's artwork. Is a rainbow the same as a swastika? When a school policy in inclusion, how can the administrators practice censorship of inclusion? How much power should we give complainers in a community, as opposed to standing firm in the face of misguided complaints? Administrators Accused of Removing LGBTQ Artwork...2022-01-3138 minREALigionREALigionSynagogue Hostages, Patriot ChurchesSeason 3, Episode 2 - This season, Eric and Joel bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue - After the hostage situation at a Texas synagogue, are we clearly supportive of one another across faiths? How (and when) do we say "we are with you" especially in a stressed, COVID, tragedy-riddled world? Standoff at Texas synagogue ends with all hostages safe, suspect dead - ABC News During the Synagogue Standoff, We Showed Up to Help Our Neighbors. We...2022-01-2430 minREALigionREALigionSeason 3 BeginsSeason 3 begins! This season, Eric and Joel will bring one (fairly) current topic each, and wonder together what our response to these issues might be from our perspectives of faith. Eric's issue today - What's more important in a congregation... the congregational relationships regardless of faith differences OR the commonality of our faith/belief even at the expense of some relationships? Joel's issue today - A Methodist pastor was fired after expressing LGBTQ inclusion in a very big way. What is the responsibility of clergy to accommodate the current beliefs or preferences of a congregation...2022-01-1326 minREALigionREALigionSeason 2 FinaleIts our Season 2 Finale! We wrap up and reflect on our conversations around tough texts, and begin imagining Season 3, two hot topics. If you have topic ideas, send them to us by email or social media! __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ 2022-01-0627 minREALigionREALigionChosen for WhatDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-11-2931 minREALigionREALigionZeal or ZealotryDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-11-2239 minREALigionREALigionSubjugation ExplorationDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-11-0847 minREALigionREALigionWorking FaithDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-11-0138 minREALigionREALigionMid EvilDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-10-1857 minREALigionREALigionRighteous StrikeDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-10-1146 minREALigionREALigionSexualityDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-10-0444 minREALigionREALigionHigh HolidaysDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-09-2738 minREALigionREALigionObedience TrainingDescription: __________ Show Notes: __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org) __________ How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org) ...2021-08-1645 minREALigionREALigionThats Not FairDescription: If you take the Bible seriously, it's hard to read through its entirety without seeing God do some unfair "stuff." What do we do with these texts, and how do we handle the possible disconnect between these texts and the God that we believe in, or want to believe in?  __________ Show Notes: God’s 10 attributes: This is one of many drawings that depict the so-called 10 vessels of God - https://people.ucalgary.ca/~elsegal/Sefirot/Sefirot.html __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: R...2021-08-0938 minREALigionREALigionRestless RestHow practical is it to STOP one day a week and just rest? And how do we define sabbath rest? Is it okay to push an elevator button, or help a stray animal, or drive to the store? The problem of Sabbath is a direct challenge to our culture of produce, excel, consume. Rabbi Eric and Reverend Joel wonder about the origins and purpose of Sabbath, and why so many people avoid it entirely or take it too far. __________ Show Notes: 39 categories of work that are prohibited on Shabbat: https://www...2021-07-2649 minREALigionREALigionShes and HesRev. Joel had a weeks vacation, but tonight, we're back to discuss Gender. Too often, cultural patriarchy is written into the scriptural texts. Sometimes, we mishear the texts and impose our gender stereotypes or biases onto the texts. Rabbi Eric and Rev. Joel reflect on ways some scriptures tell the story of gender uniqueness and differences, and challenge interpretations used to empower the male gender over all others. __________ Show Notes:   __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to f...2021-07-1950 minREALigionREALigionLoyalty CardsThis week, Joel and Eric talk about loyalty, and discuss some texts and modern day examples that are theologically problematic, but important nonetheless. Eric brings up the 5th commandment (“Honor your father and mother” as well as the story of Pinchas (Numbers 25:10).  Joel shares some powerful parables of Jesus regarding familial loyalty, and also brings up the connections between loyalty, obedience, and love. __________ Show Notes:   Article on Israel that Eric brings up in the episode:  https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/i-am-angry-and-i-cannot-put-my-anger-aside-until-things-are-quiet/     ...2021-07-0545 minREALigionREALigionForgive, Don’t ForgetThis week, Joel and Eric reflect on difficult texts that deal with the theme of forgiveness.  Among other things, Eric talks about the connection between love and forgiveness and Joel shares his belief that God does not require our forgiveness in order for us to be forgiven.       Show Notes: Eric referenced a midrash (story) that talked about 10 things created before God decided to create the universe. There are actually several of these stories that imagine things God created before saying “Let there be light.” Eric mentioned...2021-06-2850 minREALigionREALigionFree-ish WillThis is the first episode of Realigion Season 2! Each episode this season will focus on a specific theme, and Joel and Eric have chosen "difficult texts" to match with each theme. This week, "Free Will." __________ Show Notes: Do we have free will? Does it matter? and can God interfere in our lives so that free will is taken away? Joel starts us off with a close look at the Lord's Prayer, specifically with regard to the phrase, "thy will be done." Eric quotes the Talmud...2021-06-2141 minREALigionREALigionSeason 2 KickoffWelcome to Season 2 of "Real"igion! After a brief hiatus, Eric & Joel are back.  During this season, they will focus on difficult texts from the Jewish and Christian traditions. In this teaser episode, they talk about some of those themes and texts. They are excited to discuss this along with you; please consider leaving feedback and/or questions! __________ Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com __________ How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology a...2021-06-1432 minREALigionREALigionLiteral SymbolismThis week, Joel & Eric talk about taking text and scripture text literally vs metaphorically. Here are a few examples that they use to “break open” (metaphorically, of course) this topic :) Do not put a stumbling block before the blind. (Leviticus 19:14) Do not boil a kid in its mother’s milk (Exodus 23:19) Do not lie with a male as one does with a woman (Leviticus 18:22) All men are created equal They also talk about hamburgers, Supreme Court justices, Star Wars, and Joel’s continued inability to get an Xbox. *Note: Joel's Mic settings were a bit off t...2021-04-2645 minREALigionREALigionReligious FreedomThere are LOTS of Supreme Court cases lately that make decisions about religious freedoms. Where is the line between freedom to practice religion and religion's ability to impose its practices on others? How can we tell if we are protecting our own freedom to practice our religion or asking the government to sanction imposing our religious beliefs and practices on others around us? Eric and Joel push and pull on each other to find the line.   Show Notes: A Legal Winning Streak for Religion - The New York Times (nytimes.com) M...2021-04-1943 minREALigionREALigionBehind the CurtainWhat's it like back there? In this episode, Eric and Joel reflect and confess how being a religious leader really is different, odd, misunderstood, and amazing. Take a peek behind the clergy curtain and wear the hat (or yarmulke) of a clergy person for a moment. Show Notes: (Uh oh, we didn't catch the need for any, but let us know if we missed something!)   How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation C...2021-04-1242 minREALigionREALigionEaster!This week we flip the tables. Like Jesus did in the temple? No, not like that. Last week, Rev. Joel interviewed Rabbi Eric about Passover. This week, Eric interviews Joel about Easter. Is Easter the core of the Christian faith? Does every Christian believe the same thing about Easter? Did Easter HAVE to happen? We hope this episode feeds you with hope and curiosity to know God better.   Jesus sweats blood asking God to "take this cup from me" Docetism - Jesus "seemed" human How to follow Rabbi Eric 2021-04-0543 minREALigionREALigionPassover!Description:  Don't "pass over" this week's episode! :) Eric talks about the power, importance and relevance of one of the most celebrated holidays in the Jewish calendar, namely Passover. Joel asks great questions (as always) as they talk about miracles, plagues, morality, freedom of will, and more.  Show Notes: How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org)   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @tre...2021-03-2948 minREALigionREALigionOur Top Three ScripturesDuring this week’s episode, Joel and Eric take turns sharing their three favorite stories and/or quotes from Torah/The Bible.  How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org)   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyterian Church of Chestertown – Planted Deep. Growing Strong. Reaching Wide. (presbyterianchestertown.org)   Send feedbac...2021-03-2248 minREALigionREALigionWilderness YearDuring this week's conversation, Joel & Eric reflect personally & professionally on the one year anniversary of the COVID "shutdown." They use the religious imagery of the wilderness as a metaphor that can help all of us reflect and move forward. How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org)   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert P...2021-03-1438 minREALigionREALigionCancel CultureDuring this conversation, Joel and Eric talk about what is being labeled as "cancel culture." What does religion say about "canceling" certain things, people, and/or beliefs? What does the term signify, and should we use something else in its place? (spoiler alert: Eric thinks so). Show notes: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/03/02/if-curtailing-racist-imagery-dr-seuss-is-cancel-culture-what-exactly-is-your-culture/?fbclid=IwAR2vLVcwZ91WxxialsH-wbVT-Wun-bo7gSVnznSbaQFKbTrpwov8t4g2eWQ   How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, A...2021-03-0842 minREALigionREALigionVirtual, (but Actual) WorshipDuring this conversation, Joel and Eric discuss their thoughts regarding this new reality of “virtual worship” during this pandemic. They talk about what they miss about in-person worship and also discover some things that they actually prefer.    How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music Home - Congregation Children of Israel, Athens Georgia (ccisrael.org)   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert Presbyt...2021-02-2841 minREALigionREALigionThoughts and PrayersDescription: Joel & Eric talk about prayer. What is it? Who (or what) is the intended audience? Is there a difference between praying alone and praying together? Does it matter? What bout the spiritual power of personal prayer vs the communal togetherness of "corporate" prayer? And speaking of possible prayers being answered, we will be getting pop filters for our microphones so Ps Ts and Bs don't spike out, and we will also work on being quieter with keyboards and chairs!   Show Notes:   How to follow Rabbi Eric...2021-02-2241 minREALigionREALigionLife After DeathIn this episode, Eric & Joel talk about their perspectives and beliefs regarding life after death. What do Judaism and/or Christianity say about it? Their discussion may surprise you!   Show Notes:   The Death of Death: https://www.amazon.com/Death-Resurrection-Immortality-Jewish-Thought/dp/1580230814/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1JJTYX3BWIYGV&dchild=1&keywords=the+death+of+death+gillman&qid=1613355533&sprefix=The+death+of+death+gill%2Cstripbooks%2C169&sr=8-1     How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music 2021-02-1539 minREALigionREALigionForgivenessRemember & Forget; A Discussion on Forgiveness and Being Forgiven Eric & Joel talk about forgiveness. They tackle questions such as: Is anything and everything forgivable? Does God ever seek forgiveness? Using examples of theology, pop culture, and "real" life,  they cover a lot of ground this week .... with their shoes off. Show notes: Genesis 44 is the culmination of Joseph's plan in which Benjamin is accused of stealing. The imitation of God: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imitation_of_God The image of God: https://www.pbs.org/faithandreason/th...2021-02-0937 minREALigionREALigionConversion and MembershipWhat does it mean to convert to a religion, or be a member of one? How do we know if we are Christian, or Jewish, or any faith? Is it by birth, or by ritual, by belief, or by practice? Eric and Joel wonder and discuss the differences between converting, practicing, and claiming a faith community.   How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Bl...2021-02-0534 minREALigionREALigionWhy are you a Pastor, Joel?This time, we get to hear how Joel became a pastor, and the critical path points along his faith journey.    How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev. Joel Tolbert   Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com Music "Modulation in the Spirit" by Little Glass Men, Composer Ryan Claus (http...2021-02-0236 minREALigionREALigionInstitutional ReligionAre religious institutions like corporations? Are clergy employees? Are members on staff, even if as volunteers, or are they customers? What can religious institutions learn from corporations, and what should they unlearn?   Show Notes: "The Tribe" movie about Barbie and being Jewish "The Grand Canyon" movie   How to follow Rabbi Eric Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music   How to follow Rev. Joel Twitter @treblotj Blog Cross Purposes | Blog of Rev...2021-01-2945 minREALigionREALigionWhy are you a Rabbi, Eric? In today's episode, let's meet Rabbi Eric Linder, and hear more about how and why he became a Rabbi.   Show notes: To learn more about Reform Judaism: Union for Reform Judaism website: www.urj.org The word that Eric couldn't think of with regard to a central value of Reform Judaism is "egalitarian."         How to follow Rabbi Eric Linder: Twitter @geekyrabbi Blog Geeky Rabbi | Theology, Technology and a bit of Music   How to follow R...2021-01-2535 minREALigionREALigionDon’t Mess with my Construct!Don’t Mess with my Construct! In this episode, Joel and Eric continue their discussion on truth. Is it different than a belief or a hope? Where does knowledge, fact and wisdom fit in? How might we tell the difference?  Show Notes: Jewish middot (values): Who Wrote the Bible: Paul Tillich, Ultimate Concern The Little Prince Rabbi Eric's Sermon (in print) on Truth after the Capitol Invasion Rev. Joel's Sermon (in video) from Luke 3 on John's Ability to Speak Truth   Ho...2021-01-141h 00REALigionREALigionCapitol Offense and the Attack on TruthThis Week: On Wednesday, January 6, a mob of violent angry citizens charged the nation's Capitol. Many of them justified their attack based on disproved conspiracy theories and lies about our election process, system, and results. Rabbi Eric and Rev. Joel wonder and wander through topics of truth (and Truth) and discuss how religion deals with this difficult topic.   Show Notes: Rev. Joel's post praying for truth in 2021 - Truth (joeltolbert.com) Sen. Romney's words about truth - How Mitt Romney showed what real leadership looks like - CNNPolitics 2021-01-081h 07REALigionREALigionHolidays and the December DilemmaYeah, Hanukkah, about that...? And Advent, why? Rabbi Eric and Rev. Joel share some of the basics, the unique aspects, and the overlap between these two December holidays. Send feedback, show ideas, comments, and suggestions to: REALigionPodcast@gmail.com Music "Modulation in the Spirit" by Little Glass Men, Composer Ryan Claus (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/) 2020-12-1016 minREALigionREALigionWelcome to the FIRST Episode of REALigion!Imagine if a Rabbi and a Reverend walked into a podcast... Well, this is your imagination come to life! Rabbi Eric Linder of Athens, GA and Rev. Joel Tolbert of Chestertown, MD are buddies, clergy colleagues, deep thinkers, open-minded theologians, and compatriots in helping this world look more and more like God's kingdom. We will discuss all things religious, and a few things sacrilegious. How can we bend all religion back toward wholeness, holiness, justice, peace, and love? We hope these conversations invite you to hold all religions accountable to our professed beliefs...2020-12-0420 min