The Invitation

This is the first of a series of podcast episodes that are introducing to the world a new doctorate of ministry (DMin) study cohort to be hosted at Western Theological Seminary. The title of this series shares the name of the study cohort, "A New Reality in Belonging: Contemplation and Justice for All God's People." More information about the program of study can be found at https://contemplationandjustice.weste.... In this episode Michelle reads from Renita J. Weems' Substack essay, "Hope With Receipts: A Womanist's Search for God in Times of Crisis." https://rjweems.substack.com/p/hope-w... For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/ Introduction & Program Overview (0:05 - 2:36) Josh Banner introduces the Invitation Center, the new doctorate of ministry cohort, and the four core faculty. Explains the purpose of the podcast series and who it's for. Setting the Task: Contemplation & Justice (2:50 - 4:05) Michelle frames the conversation around texts that help integrate contemplation and racial justice — "Do we know how to decenter ourselves to hear God?" Participant Introductions (5:09 - 8:02) Michelle, Cami, and Keith introduce themselves, each sharing what it means to show up authentically in this space. "A New Reality in Belonging" — Jennings Framework (8:22 - 9:35) Josh introduces Willie James Jennings' concept — the Spirit inviting us to cross cultural boundaries and bring our bodies into contact with other bodies. The Reading: "Hope with Receipts" by Renita J. Weems (10:50 - 13:34) Michelle reads the essay aloud — grounded hope sustained by resistance, refusing to fragment ourselves, God found in ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Michelle's Reflection: Deep Listening & Womanism (13:47 - 18:23) Michelle connects the reading to contemplative listening, womanism as a response to missing voices, the Montgomery bus boycott, and the need to listen across difference rather than assume commonality. Cami on Community Beyond Commonality (18:44 - 20:50) Cami reflects on how deeper community is found in difference, not commonality — bringing one's "undivided self" and the sacredness of mutual vulnerability. Keith on the Radical & the Moderate (21:56 - 26:28) Keith discusses how community should welcome fierce, radical energy alongside the moderate — the church's tendency to prioritize homogeneity and patriarchy, the Civil Rights movement's sidelining of women's voices, and the need for on-ramps. White Allies, Church, and Younger Generations (28:20 - 34:30) Keith reflects on white allies in the church, white normativity in faith spaces, and a younger generation that sees moderate community as lacking credibility for justice work. Discusses how vacuum of authentic community drives people elsewhere. Josh's Lament: White Male Body & Conformity (35:57 - 38:22) Josh names the "dominant gaze" that demands conformity, laments how his own white male body carries generations of cultural conditioning, and affirms the reading as prophetic. Closing Wisdom: Pace & Compassion (38:22 - 40:37) The group offers closing words to listeners — take a breath, pace yourself, there's no coercion, this is slow long work. They sign off and preview Cami's reading for the next episode. #contemplation #justice #subversivehope #subversivelove #prayer #meditation

What do we do with the agony? What can we do? Where do we go for help? For all those who feel deeply For all those who are confused For all those who feel helpless For all those who are angry For all those who are hiding and are shut down For all those who have no voice For all those who are prayerless For all those who are sleepless For all those who are exhausted How are you staying sane and safe? In this audio meditation, Josh offers a meditation to consider how our response to the pain surrounding us reveals our false understanding of power. Can we become more honest and open to God by considering our immediate violence in the context of our long addiction to power? After moving through this difficult discernment, Josh offers simple guided breath work to further open to God’s help. [0:00] Welcome America’s struggle with power, and situates this episode within the broader A New Reality in Belonging conversation. [3:00] An Audio-Only Meditation A prayerful, contemplative meditation—especially amid exhaustion, violence, and polarization. [6:54] Discernment on Power, Weakness, and America Our self-consumed society is collapsing, with insights from Howard Thurman’s Jesus and the Disinherited. [29:25] Guided Breath Prayer A simple, embodied breath practice (4 counts in, 4 counts out) to calm the nervous system and open the heart to God. [40:46] Staying Open to God in the Midst of Pain Finding help without bypassing suffering. Please share your experience of this episode with me. I’d love to know if and how breath work is helpful. Email me: josh at theinvitationcenter dot org. For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/

A New Reality in Belonging Series - Robert Caldwell & Keith Reynolds Pt III What if justice begins with listening? What if we don’t bring Jesus to others—but discover Jesus already among them? In this final conversation with Keith Reynolds and Robert Caldwell, we explore contemplation, Black perseverance, cruciform leadership, and the sacramental presence of God revealed through our neighbors. A call to move beyond saviorism, recover communal wisdom, and practice a faith shaped by deep listening, shared life, and hope. 0:51 – Neighbors as Sacrament Opening the conversation on symbiotic relationship, not saviorism 3:14 – Encountering God Through the Other How we meet Christ in and through our neighbors 5:48 – NT Wright on the Church as New Creation A unified, multi-ethnic body as a living sign of God’s kingdom 9:47 – Black Genius, Suffering, and Imagination How suffering forms vision, creativity, and spiritual resilience 14:51 – Family Stories of Perseverance Robert’s ancestral story of survival, migration, and hope 21:00 – Going to Celebrate, Not Just Serve A corrective to paternalism: discovering Jesus already present 25:27 – Contemplation as Formation for Justice Richard Rohr, inner quiet, and faithful presence 28:57 – Inner Life and World-Mindedness Howard Thurman on the inseparable bond between contemplation and social responsibility For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/

In Part II of this ongoing conversation, Josh continues his dialogue with Robert Caldwell and Keith Reynolds, deepening the exploration of surrender, obedience, and belonging. Set in the season of Advent, this episode reflects on waiting, disorientation, and unfinishedness as sacred spaces where faith is formed. Drawing on Scripture and lived experience, the conversation challenges self-sufficient models of Christianity and imagines a more honest, dependent way of following God—one shaped by suffering, humility, and spiritual friendship. Together, the hosts wrestle with the future of the church, the limits of institutional models, and the hope that emerges when control is relinquished and life is received as gift rather than project. At its heart, this episode affirms that asking the question is itself an act of hope, and that new light often comes not through certainty, but through surrender. 0:00 - Surrendering to God; learning through suffering 01:19 - Introducing Robert Caldwell & Keith Reynolds; focus on faithfulness 03:31 - The “finished man,” self-sufficiency, and Advent’s invitation to need 04:51 - Deconstruction, holding space for pain and hope 06:29 - Community, vulnerability, and hope in belonging 07:46 - Church planting: critique of megachurches, seeking authenticity 14:22 - Launching a new church; forming a core team 18:03 - Mentorship, transparency, and organic process 22:48 - Living in the community; challenging church norms 24:30 - New wine in new wineskins; generational shifts 27:21 - Outward-facing church; serving the marginalized 29:20 - Social location, calling, and never forgetting one’s roots 36:40 - Returning to serve in one’s own neighborhood 41:52 - Living out faith; surrender and next steps For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/

In this episode podcaster and spiritual director, Josh Banner with Keith Reynolds, and Robert Caldwell explores how the church can embody creative, justice-oriented responses to today’s social realities by centering marginalized communities and reimagining spiritual formation as social transformation. Guests: • Keith Reynolds (Western Theological Seminary) • Robert Caldwell (Answer Poverty) Key Topics: • Church and social justice • Community development • Faith in action • Racial equity • Creative ministry models 00:00 – Introduction • Opening thoughts on not being anxious about current events and the call for the church to focus on supporting marginalized people. 00:32 – Organizing for Impact • Discussion on how resources are used to meet material needs in the community. 00:47 – New Wine, Old Wineskins • Reflection on the need for new approaches in faith and community work. 01:03 – Suffering and Imagination • The idea that suffering requires imagination and leads to collective genius, especially in the Black community. 01:25 – Robert Caldwell’s Influence • Robert’s non-reactionary approach and the wisdom gained from elders. 01:51 – Episode Overview • Host Josh introduces guests Keith Reynolds and Robert Caldwell, and outlines the themes of the episode: church planting, justice, and hope. 02:36 – Orientation and Vision • Robert shares his story; Keith discusses his vision for a new kind of church. 04:20 – Turning to Hope • Encouragement to focus on good news and practice hope despite a difficult news cycle. 05:40 – Love and Justice • Exploring the connection between loving God, neighbor, and self; justice as love in action. 09:00 – Personal Journeys • Keith and Robert share their backgrounds, vocational journeys, and the importance of mentorship and legacy. 16:36 – Church Planting and Community • Keith describes the influence of Robert on his approach to church and community development. 36:14 – Closing Reflections • The episode closes with thoughts on witness, legacy, and the ongoing journey of faith and justice. For more information visit: www.theinvitationcenter.org For information about the pending DMin cohort at Western Theological Seminary, visit: https://www.westernsem.edu/admissions/

In this fourth installment of the ‘Eastertide’ series, Josh Banner invites listeners to explore the concept of becoming small through Christ's resurrection. By reflecting on Psalm 131, the discussion delves into humility and love for others, even those we don't understand. The episode examines toxic masculinity, the nurturing aspect of God, and the importance of empathy in Christianity. Highlighting insights from Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Howard Thurman, Banner emphasizes the need for a counter-cultural approach to faith, focusing on humility, meekness, and a deeper connection to justice and love. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own posture and to engage in supportive practices for personal and communal growth. Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx www.theinvitationcenter.org 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:18 Exploring Psalm 131 02:04 Contemplative Listening and the Divine Feminine 03:08 Toxic Masculinity and Patriarchy 06:00 Bonhoeffer and Thurman on Brotherhood 08:52 Bonhoeffer's Transformation in Harlem 12:19 Empathy and Its Potential Abuses 16:19 The Paradox of Becoming Small 21:07 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode of The Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner delves deep into the concept of resurrection as a means to become humble and small. Drawing upon passages from Psalm 131, Romans 12, and integrating thoughts from Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Martin Luther King Jr., and Howard Thurman, Josh explores the transformation of society and self by aligning with the suffering and marginalized rather than seeking power. He discusses the challenges of religious jargon, the value of questioning deeply held beliefs, and fostering true dignity and justice for all. The episode invites listeners to consider the depths of their faith, the importance of mutuality, and to explore how to embody Christ's compassion in their interactions with others. Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx www.theinvitationcenter.org 00:00 Introduction to The Invitation Podcast 00:36 Exploring Resurrection and Humanity 01:42 Bonhoeffer's Messianic Act and Religious Jargon 02:45 Deconstruction and Desert Spirituality 04:10 Resurrection Life Amidst Pain and Oppression 05:30 Integrating Teachings from Dr. King, Bonhoeffer, and Thurman 08:13 Psalm 131: A Meditation on Humility and Trust 09:24 Howard Thurman's Perspective on Jesus and the Disinherited 11:27 Christianity's Relationship with Power and Suffering 18:42 Resurrection Life and Creative Maladjustment 18:56 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Resurrection Power 20:33 Embracing the Other with Christ's Love 23:39 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

In this episode of The Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner explores the idea of 'Resurrection Life as an Invitation to Become Small.' He delves into the late writings of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, suggesting that Bonhoeffer's true essence and his writings on powerlessness align with a deeper understanding of Jesus' teachings. Josh contrasts religious complacency with true Christian life, emphasizing humility, meekness, and genuine fellowship with others. He connects scripture from Psalm 131 and insights from Bonhoeffer's prison letters to encourage listeners to embrace a life of smallness and trust in God, steering away from traditional notions of religious power and significance. Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx www.theinvitationcenter.org 00:00 Introduction to The Invitation Podcast 01:01 Exploring Dietrich Bonhoeffer's Legacy 04:25 Bonhoeffer's Letters and Theological Insights 12:16 The Concept of Religionless Christianity 17:27 Practical Applications of Resurrection Life 19:58 Invitation to Reflect and Become Small

In this episode of the Invitation Podcast, Josh Banner explores the upcoming podcast series focusing on resurrection as an invitation to becoming small. He reflects on the heroic dimension often associated with Christian faith in America and invites listeners to reconsider their understanding during Eastertide, the 50 days after Easter. Using Psalm 131 and teachings from figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Howard Thurman, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Josh guides a meditative journey on aligning with the meek, the poor in spirit, and the non-conforming minority. He also shares his experiences with contemplative practices in prison ministry. Tune in for a deeply reflective and thought-provoking meditation. Please fill out this questionnaire to give the Invitation feedback on this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/5n73wrcx www.theinvitationcenter.org 00:00 Preface to Fram Eastertide 01:02 Introduction and Listener Feedback 04:00 Proposing a New Podcast Series 07:05 Meditation on Psalm 130 and Influential Readings 08:02 Personal Reflections on Ministry and Humility 010:25 Dr. King's Influence and Creative Maladjustment 12:34 What is your pending doom? 15:24 Sermon on the Mount, Blessed are the Poor in Spirit 20:14 Hosanna and the Call to Become Small 23:15 Conclusion: Embracing Smallness and Cooperation with God 25:15 Outro, How you can collaborate with the Invitation Center

I made this sketch for the Invitation Podcast series The Resurrection Invites us to Become Small.

I put this meditation together March 27, 2025 after facilitating an SOCL retreat. I left the retreat appropriately tired yet full and in need of processing with sound. Rhodes, nylon string guitar, and 'field' recording processed with a Chase Bliss Mood II and some Felt Instruments Smugi.

In this hundredth episode, I share the completion of my doctoral dissertation, reflecting on the impact of global and national issues on our well-being. Drawing inspiration from Willie James Jennings, I explore the concept of a new reality in belonging and its significance in our polarized world. As an introvert and Enneagram 4, I discuss the challenges of making video podcasts and the importance of feedback. I delve into themes of contemplation, justice, and our role in public theology, referencing Matthew 10:34-37 and Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. As we approach Lent, I invite you to join me in deep soul formation and anti-racism work, aiming to create safe spaces for transformative conversations. Your feedback and support are invaluable on this journey. To watch this podcast: https://youtu.be/LMqNzLUZjcg Please complete this survey to help us develop the podcast. Thanks! https://tinyurl.com/kkhnz7yx 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:28 Rediscovering the Podcast's Purpose 03:02 Invitation to Feedback and Reflection 04:10 Contemplation and Justice 05:19 Exploring a New Reality in Belonging 07:10 Creating Safe Spaces for Hard Conversations 09:55 Public Theology and Social Justice 12:01 Meditation on Matthew 10:34-37 14:09 Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts To learn more about the Invitation Center: www.theinvitationcenter.org The Invitation Center is a 501c3. Tax deductible donations can be offered here: https://theinvitationcenter.org/donations

In this episode discuss my journey with The Invitation, the challenges and goodness of 2024, especially as I finish my doctorate! To wrap up the year I share four sacred sayings that have helped me, a reading from Dr. King, Paul Kingsnorth, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and Howard Thurman. This update serves as a meditation exploring themes of justice, contemplative listening, and openness to the Holy Spirit. We always solicit your prayer and friendship. If the Invitation has been a help to you and you have the means, you can support us with a year end gift here at this link! With much love and gratitude for you! Josh A link to Paul Kingsnorth’s Erasmus Lecture: https://www.youtube.com/live/Y3hMSZqatHI To learn more about the School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer The School of Contemplative Listening: https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl# 00:00 Introduction and Year-End Reflections 04:09 Challenges and Personal Updates 06:49 Formation School and Collaborations 08:13 Contemplative Listening and Feminine Energy 14:05 Sayings and Reflections 32:11 Conclusion and Call to Action

"Lord, teach me to care and not to care." It's been awhile since I needed to process with music. Found sounds here just outside my studio on a windy day. Here's our original release: https://ordinaryneighbors.bandcamp.com/album/the-necessary-dark

In this episode six members of the School of Contemplative Listening respond to our conviction that spiritual direction can solve (almost) all the world's problems. This is an episode in our onrunning Forum on Spiritual Direction series. As we propose contemplative listening at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice, we are getting into the deeper terrain of existence. There are many reasons to fall into despair today. But if quiet ourselves and listen, we find that help and healing are not too far away. This is a movement from being victims to becoming witnesses. This conversation has previously been between Josh Banner and Cami Beecroft Mann. We excited for you to receive the witness from others who have been studying and practicing spiritual direction! Subscribe to the Invitation podcast: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/socl To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer Opening song - "Wrestle" by Kristi Hepp from the album, In Between the Gardens available at kristihepp.bandcamp.com/album/in-betw…n-the-gardens All other music is by Josh Banner

We all need help. We can all offer each other help. Cami has taught me so much about these things! This episode is a conversation Josh had with SOCL co-director, Cami Beecroft Mann in 2021. We consider this episode a prequel to the Forum on Spiritual Direction where Josh and Cami discuss the conviction that spiritual direction can solve (almost) all the world’s problems. Download our free prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend Five Minutes with God: https://theinvitationcenter.org/40-ways Subscribe to the Invitation podcast:theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer:theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening:theinvitationcenter.org/socl

Josh talks with painter, author, arts advocate Makoto Fujimura about the connections between creativity and prayer. To introduce Makoto Josh offers a reflection on Makoto as a 'worldly mystic,' how he offers for us in his paintings and writings ways to rediscover our own sacred yet earthly existence. The video referenced "Mako Fujimura's Golden Sea": https://youtu.be/2B7_8w_FzPw https://makotofujimura.com Subscribe to the Invitation podcast: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/socl

Josh talks with Kristi Hepp about her new record "In Between the Gardens." This is the third episode that maps Josh's history with Oklahoma City where Kristi originally hails from. The focus question of this episode is the focus question of Kristi's record, what is a human being fully alive? In this episode, we discuss whether we could make a record that Kristi would want to listen to. Can she belong to herself? Can she even enjoy the sound of her own voice singing her own songs? We discuss the necessary fear and pain that the Holy Spirit invites us to name, and how loving ourselves requires us to receive God's love. And how this means getting honest with God about our deepest questions, doubts, and even anger. Please support and share Kristi's music: https://kristihepp.bandcamp.com/album/in-between-the-gardens Subscribe to the Invitation podcast: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/socl

What do we do with suffering? Why would we want to cooperate with the pain? How can suffering be helpful? There are many reasons to be concerned with the way organized religion handles these very vulnerable questions. In this episode, I talk with worship leader Charlie Hall, an old friend about these things. That we can engage such vulnerabilities after so much time--this bears witness to the mystical body of Christ that exists beyond time and space. The prayer for this episode: that we might recover a deeper trust in God and other people, to be honest about our suffering, and not alone. I visited Oklahoma City in December of 2017 to gain support during the launch of the Invitation as a not-for-profit. OKC had been a spiritual home for much of my early adulthood. This conversation with worship leader, Charlie Hall is the second of two conversations I recorded during that trip. As I review the previous conversation with Brock Bingaman (episode #94) and this one with Charlie, my heart is full of gratitude for the spiritual reality of the church. Subscribe to the Invitation podcast: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/socl