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

This is a conversation I had with Brock Bingaman, pastor of All Saints Community Church in Oklahoma City, on the Jesus Prayer and a book he co-edited on the Philokalia. Brock is an old friend I was glad to reconnect with for this conversation. Maybe breath prayer could be especially helpful for your Lenten journey this year? Books recommended in this episode: The Philokalia: A Classic Text of Orthodox Spirituality ed. Brock Bingaman and Bradley Nassif; The Orthodox Way, Kalistos Ware; Desert Fathers and Mothers: Early Christian Wisdom Sayings—Annotated & Explained, Christine Valters Paintner 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

This episode is a meditation on screwing with our dependencies in Lent. In the language of the Twelve Steps of addiction recovery: we are powerless over our drug of choice, and our lives as we know them are unmanageable. The purpose of Lent is to subvert our addictions that we might become more dependent upon the love of God. But we cannot do this easily. We cannot force our way toward healing and holiness. When we over-function and strive toward God, we set ourselves up for regression. In this episode we turn to the wisdom of Thomas a’Kempis, that we “uproot just one vice per year.” This is to say we must make a plan for Lent that is gracefully approachable.I encourage you to use the 40 Ways to Spend Five Minutes with God prayer guide for your Lenten practice. The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

This is the conclusion of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. In this episode, Josh reads from the end of the prayer guide a reflection on how before God we are always beginners. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written with new prayer practices and Biblical rationale. Download a digital copy of the prayer guide: theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

Let's return to prayer, to longing and expectation with our strength during Advent. In this meditation, Josh offers a short meditation of praying with the soul. We attended to our bodies in the previous episode. We are bodies. We are also souls. This is the fifth of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written with new prayer practices and Biblical rationale. Download a digital copy of the prayer guide: theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

Let's return to prayer, to longing and expectation with our strength during Advent. In this meditation, Josh offers a short meditation of praying with our strength, in and through our bodies. This is the fourth of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written with new prayer practices and Biblical rationale. Download a digital copy of the prayer guide: theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

Let's return to prayer, to longing and expectation in our MINDS during Advent. In this meditation, Josh offers a short meditation of praying with the heart. This is the second of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written with new prayer practices and Biblical rationale. Download a digital copy of the prayer guide: theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

Let's return to prayer, to longing and expectation in our hearts during Advent. In this meditation, Josh offers a short meditation of praying with the heart. This is the second of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written with new prayer practices and Biblical rationale. Download a digital copy of the prayer guide: theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. 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

In this episode, Josh offers the first of a six-part series of Advent meditations using the Invitation prayer guide, 40 Ways to Spend 5 Minutes with God. This prayer guide, first written in 2015 has been substantially re-written. You can download a digital copy of the guide at https://theinvitationcenter.org/downloads The Invitation is a spirituality center that creates time and space for God at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. Subscribe to the Invitation podcast: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the School of Contemplative Listening: https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl

Josh and Greg explore Greg's discernment to divest his ordination, leave local church ministry to explore different creative approaches to healing racism. Previously Greg had described his mission in the three elements of the political, the contemplative, and the convivial. Here in part two Greg casts the vision of moving from repentance to reparations to reconciliation to repast. Start at @17:00 to skip past the introduction directly to the conversation with Greg. For more on Greg visit: www.vuproject.org For more information on the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer Subscribe to Invitation updates: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe

In this episode Josh opens up a conversation with Greg Thompson about his book co-authored with Duke Kwon, Reparations: A Christian Call to Repentance & Repair. Yet in the process of attempting to create a conversation about healing the ravages of white supremacy, Josh is confronted with his own personal instability. Does he belong to himself enough to be able to steward for others conversations about healing toward reconciliation? How is it that sharing our weaknesses with each other allows us to belong to each other? This episode is an introduction to Greg, his movement out of pastoral leadership into Voices Underground, an organization committed to erecting a national monument to the Underground Railroad. Greg describes how his mission that lies at the intersection of the political, contemplative, and convivial led him to go to culinary school open a restaurant and a cocktail bar. In part II of this conversation, Josh and Greg go more deeply into the meaning and practice of reparations. Start at @15:00 to skip past the introduction directly to the conversation with Greg. Please visit: https://www.vuproject.org For more information on the Invitation School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer Subscribe to Invitation updates: https://theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe

Josh has a conversation with his best friend about their 30+ years of spiritual friendship since they met at summer camp in middle school. This episode is a co-release with the Awakening, a worship/arts camp for high school students based at Hope College. Promo vid: https://youtu.be/6-aewn-cgIo For more information about the Awakening: https://hope.edu/awakening/ To subscribe to the Invitation for updates on newly released podcast episodes and upcoming retreats: https://theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe We are recruiting for the School of Prayer beginning in September '23, https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer and the School of Contemplative Listening beginning in August '23, https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl

Part II of the third conversation between Cami Beercroft Mann and Josh Banner for the series, the Forum on Spiritual Direction. We continue to tease out the meaning of the thesis of this series that spiritual direction can solve (almost) all of our problems.

Part I of the third conversation between Cami Beercroft Mann and Josh Banner for the series, the Forum on Spiritual Direction. We continue to tease out the meaning of the thesis of this series that spiritual direction can solve (almost) all of our problems. There are a few spots open for those wanting to spend time engaging the Forum on Spiritual Direction in a retreat format at St Gregory's Abbey in Three Rivers Michigan. Please email Josh with your interest. The Invitation is a spirituality center that practices spiritual direction at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. For more information visit: theinvitationcenter.org To learn about the School of Prayer, our eight-month study and practice of the rule of life: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the Invitation School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/socl To collaborate with us or make a donation: theinvitationcenter.org/partner Thanks for listening!

This is our second full conversation of the Forum on Spiritual Direction where we continue to discern the focus question for discernment, "Can Spiritual Direction Solve (Almost) All of Our Problems?" Cami and I engage in an extended contemplative conversation to discern and tease out the dignifying nature of spiritual direction. This is to say we talk about the practice of spiritual direction by practicing spiritual direction. While our society is one of oppression, pressing down upon and minimizing us, the contemplative space of spiritual direction provides a way for us to rediscover the enormity of each other, the profound dignity of each other.Carrots grow best in a loose, fluffy, well-draining soil. Gardeners call this “fertile sandy loam.” If planted in tightly compacted, rocky soil with clods and debris, carrots growth will not only be stunted. They will become twisted, distorted knots.Human beings also need ample space, the comfort of love, patience, and kindness to flourish. Our society and sadly even the church at times are oppressive in ways that define our individual and collective experience of trauma, the arrested development of of spiritual, mental, and even physical health.We believe that spiritual direction, careful, contemplative listening is the most effective way for humans to help each other discover and rediscover this kind of flourishing. The Invitation is a spirituality center that practices spiritual direction at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. For more information visit: https://theinvitationcenter.org To learn about the School of Prayer, our eight-month study and practice of the rule of life: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer To learn about the Invitation School of Contemplative Listening: https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl To collaborate with us or make a donation: https://theinvitationcenter.org/partner Thanks for listening!

Spiritual Direction Can Solve (almost) All of the World's Problems. Can it? This episode something of an experiment for the Forum on Spiritual Direction. As I have struggled to accept my own failures, I offer some of my weaknesses and questions with you as an opportunity to explore the focus question of this series: can spiritual direction solve (almost) all of the world's problems? This episode turns out to be a kind of audio essay with no specific final point, no definite idea. Mostly I am looking to share myself and to welcome you deeper into this conversation I’m having with Cami.Over the holiday while home, I was prompted by the previous Forum discussion with Cami about the spirituality of our origins. So I take you on an audio walk around the Illinois farm where I was raised. I then share some further reflections while on retreat at St. Gregory's Abbey in Three Rivers Michigan. I’m considering how deep listening to our failures is a necessary, essential a gift for the sake of our healing and growth. Failures can become compost! Much Love to you!Josh **The picture I’ve used for this episode is from our family farm, taken the morning of January 3, 2023 For more information: www.theinvitationcenter.org

Part II of what we are now calling a "prelude" to our new series, The Forum on Spiritual Direction. We continue to discuss can direction solve (almost) all of the world's problems? In this episode we move from considering Josh to focus on Cami's story, how she came to the practice of direction and how her practice is especially trauma informed. You are invited to engage at least two zoom conversations and to even attend an in-person retreat. Details on these events along with a working outline of the Forum can be found here: theinvitationcenter.org/new-page This part of the conversation is an honest, confessional exploration into the nature of what has become the Invitation Center in and through Josh, the founder and lead of the Invitation. In part two of this introduction, the focus turns to Cami's trauma-informed practice of direction and the story of how she came to her practice. Josh and Cami serve as the co-directors of the Invitation School of Contemplative Listening, a study and practice of spiritual direction at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. theinvitationcenter.org/socl To subscribe to the Invitation newsletter: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer

Spiritual Direction Can Solve (almost) All of the World's Problems. Can it? This is the first part of two episodes introducing our new series, the Invitation "Forum on Spiritual Direction' where Cami Mann and Josh Banner invite you into a long conversation to consider the vital, healing need of contemplative listening especially today. In this forum Josh and Cami attempt to talk about spiritual direction through a practice of spiritual direction. That is to say, these are vulnerable, self-disclosive contemplative listening conversations where Josh and Cami attempt to respond to the movements of the Holy Spirit in each other. They share their enthusiasm and insight, yet they also share their struggles, doubts, and fears. You are invited to engage at least two zoom conversations and to even attend an in-person retreat. Details on these events along with a working outline of the Forum can be found here: https://theinvitationcenter.org/new-page This part of the conversation is an honest, confessional exploration into the nature of what has become the Invitation Center in and through Josh, the founder and lead of the Invitation. In part two of this introduction, the focus turns to Cami's trauma-informed practice of direction and the story of how she came to her practice. Josh and Cami serve as the co-directors of the Invitation School of Contemplative Listening, a study and practice of spiritual direction at the vital intersection of contemplation and justice. https://theinvitationcenter.org/socl To subscribe to the Invitation newsletter: https://theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn about the Invitation School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer

Josh offers some updates on the Invitation and shares more about what he is learning in and through the School of Prayer, how it is formed around what he experienced over the six years praying with a group of men in a prison while facilitating the Spiritual Exercises. Here Josh identifies how Christianity can function much more like a 12-Step addiction recovery program. For more info: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer

Zach Winters surprised the Banner's with a little concert after sharing a meal with us. Zach's sung version of Psalm 23 has helped Josh and Susanna for several years. It was a gift to sit with him, with his music and share good conversation. Pt II will include Josh's continued conversation with Zach after the kids went to bed. Josh and Zach talk about the incredible help of music and the arts to create community and healing. https://www.zachwinters.com An early version of "Psalm 23" was released by The Verses Project which can now be found at https://listentoverses.com/listen These good folks now offer their music via Spotify and their own app! For more information about the Invitation Center: https://theinvitationcenter.org On the School of Prayer: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer-details

This is part seven of our series, "White People Talking to White People About Racism," a reading of Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance & Repair by Duke Kwon and Greg Thompson. In this episode the Rev Julie Van Til helps Josh unpack chapter three. Subscribe to the Invitation: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe About our summer podcast series: theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-b…ok-discussion Reparations Group Discussion Guide: theinvitationcenter.org/s/Reparations…ion-Guide.pdf To learn more about our formation schools... The School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer The School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-con…e-listening-1

Before we can actively be a part of healing the ravages of white supremacy, we have to learn to care, to be invested. This whole series, "White People Talking to White People About Racism, A Reading of Reparations: A Christian Call to Repentance and Repair by Duke Kwon and Greg Thompson," this is our chance to slow down, listen, pray, and grow in our capacity to care for the work of healing before us. In this episode Josh shares his conversation with Latorious Willis who recently was recently released from prison. Here we celebrate Latorious' release, his spiritual friendship with Josh, and to celebrate all the other brothers who are still behind bars. We hope this episode offers you a glimpse into the goodness of learning to love the disinherited, the marginalized who are often ignored--or in Howard Thurman's vocabulary: the person who back is against the wall. A short video of this reunion between Josh and Latorious can be found on our website: https://tinyurl.com/fd454bw2 Subscribe to the Invitation: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe About our summer podcast series: theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-b…ok-discussion Reparations Group Discussion Guide: theinvitationcenter.org/s/Reparations…ion-Guide.pdf To learn more about our formation schools... The School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer The School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-con…e-listening-1

The Rev Bryan Berghoef helps Josh unpack "Seeing the Reality of White Supremacy," chapter 3 of Reparations: A Christian Call for Repentance & Repair. We are releasing this especially on the occasion of the 4th of July weekend because chapter two begins with Fredrick Douglas' speech on the 4th of July, 1852. Bryan Berghoef is someone Josh has been excited to get to know for some time. He is an American politician, pastor and author who was the Democratic candidate for U.S. Congress in the 2020 United States House of Representatives elections in Michigan for the Second District.[1] He is also a pastor of the Holland United Church of Christ, a UCC church in Holland, Michigan, which he founded in 2016. The gift of this conversation with Bryan is a hope-filled demonstration of ecumenical breadth of the body of Christ that is bears witness to the love of God that will heal the ravages of white supremacy. Subscribe to the Invitation: theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe About our summer podcast series: theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-b…ok-discussion Reparations Group Discussion Guide: theinvitationcenter.org/s/Reparations…ion-Guide.pdf To learn more about our formation schools... The School of Prayer: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer The School of Contemplative Listening: theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-con…e-listening-1

The Rev Kate Kooyman helps Josh unpack “The Call to See,” chapter one of Reparations. This call, this invitation to reparations is a discipline of seeing. Chapters one and two of our book this summer are intensive opportunities for us to see the white supremacy that pervades America, the church, and even our own families, homes, and careers. With the honesty and clarity of a spiritual director, Kwon and Thompson describe the difficulty of seeing: “seeing racism in this was has been an ongoing struggle. In truth, seeing clearly almost always is a struggle.” Subscribe to the Invitation: https://theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe About our summer podcast series: https://theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-book-discussion Reparations Group Discussion Guide: https://theinvitationcenter.org/s/Reparations-Discussion-Guide.pdf To learn more about our formation schools... The School of Prayer:https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-prayer The School of Contemplative Listening: https://theinvitationcenter.org/school-of-contemplative-listening-1

My wife, Susanna Childress, helps me respond to the introduction of Reparations. The idea is to let each chapter breathe a bit, to find ways to open ourselves to God in the reading and in the discussion. Susanna is especially able to help us think about how immersing ourselves in the writings of people of color can help us grow into people who will want to attend to the work of reparations. She is an Assistant Professor of creative writing at Hope College here in Holland, MI., and is author of two books of poetry, the 2006, Brittingham Prize in Poetry winning, Jagged With Love, as well as Entering the House of Awe. In 2015 her poem, “Careful, I Just Won A Prize at the Fair” was included in The Best of American Poetry.

Josh and Dr Jesse Curtis touch on some of the big ideas in the introduction to Reparations, but mainly they admire the careful yet bold while also pastoral tone of the book we’ve chosen for our summer read and discussion. Jesse Curts begins his contribution by sharing from his own journey, how he learned from his early mistakes and learned the goodness of experiencing God in and through his steep learning curve on racial injustice. To go directly to the conversation with Jesse Curtis, skip to 18:40. Here is a link for more information about this summer series, “White People Talking to White People About Racism” : https://theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-book-discussion Please visit Jesse’s website: The Myth of Colorblind Christians https://colorblindchristians.com/ We are asking participants to buy the book from a black owned bookstore. In West Michigan, consider the store, We Are Lit! For a list of more black owned stores visit Literary Hub. https://lithub.com/you-can-order-today-from-these-black-owned-independent-bookstores/ Our call to worship prayer for this summer from Howard Thurman: Lord, Lord, Open Unto Me Open unto me, light for my darkness Open unto me, courage for my fear Open unto me, hope for my despair Open unto me, peace for my turmoil Open unto me, joy for my sorrow Open unto me, strength for my weakness Open unto me, wisdom for my confusion Open unto me, forgiveness for my sins Open unto me, tenderness for my toughness Open unto me, love for my hates Open unto me, Thy Self for myself Lord, Lord, open unto me!

To stay up to date with our summer series, "White People Talking to White People About Racism," please subscribe: https://theinvitationcenter.org/subscribe To learn more about the series: https://theinvitationcenter.org/reparations-book-discussion The Rev. Dr. Denise Kingdom Grier offers a bold, honest, and frank discernment of the racism in America and the white church. Her courageous testimony provides the necessary and essential orientation as we invite white people to talk with white people about racism this summer 2021 in our reading of Reparations: A Christian Call For Repentance and Repair by Duke Kwon and Gregory Thompson. Josh offers some orientation to Denise’s orientation by walking through the details about how this summer series will work, and then he offers some context about why the Invitation is handling this book and the vocabulary of reparations. Finally, Josh offers a few meditative readings from Ephesians 3 to allow you time to take this very difficult conversation into contemplative practice. To go directly to the conversation with Denise, skip to 23:20. We are asking participants to buy the book from a black owned bookstore. In West Michigan, consider the store, We Are Lit! For a list of more black owned stores visit Literary Hub: https://tinyurl.com/pt8c48ua The March 4, 2021, “#LeaveLoud” episode of the Pass the Mic podcast mentioned can be found HERE: https://tinyurl.com/tsxj7998

Unedited audio of Josh’s conversation with Kenda Creasy Dean, the Mary D. Synnott Professor of Youth, Church, and Culture at Princeton Seminary. This content was created to support and deepen the Awakening, a summer week-long experience in the worship arts at Hope College that Josh serves as Director of Discipleship.

In this episode Josh Banner continues the Awakening’s collaboration with the Invitation Podcast as we further explore our focus question: what does a 16-year-old have to teach the church? Here, Josh borrows from a conversation he recently had with Kenda Creasy Dean, the Mary D. Synnott Professor of Youth, Church, and Culture at Princeton Seminary, to encourage parents and teens to share their true stories of faith with each other. We hope and pray especially in the midst of Covid-19 this episode #5 will help you to slow down, to be more intentionally present to your family, and to learn with and from each other. The full unedited, un-produced conversation with Kenda is available for you to listen to.

It’s been too long. I apologize for disappearing. Doing quarantine for a year with young children is not easy. It’s been difficult to get anything done, yet there has been much goodness for the Invitation even in 2020-2021 that I want to share with you. In this episode I offer good news about this years three cohorts of the School of Prayer, our new spiritual direction practicum, the School of Contemplative Listening, the first annual Invitation Family Camp, the forthcoming episodes, and our summer book club. But first, a mediation for Good Friday, a reading from Fr John Beher’s genius Becoming Human: Meditations on Christian Anthropology in Word and Image. We can only recognize Jesus through the cross, through his death. Ironically, our life comes through our death, our rising in and through and beyond this world! Fr Beher helps us understand that to be truly human in to die. Registration for the SOCL is open. We’ll have registration for the SOP and the Family Camp open in the next week. I hope you and yours are well. Don’t be shy. It’d be great to hear from you!

In November of 2018 Josh sat down for a long-awaited conversation with David Dark, professor of Religion and the Arts at Belmont University. This conversation offers us a bit of sanity as Josh and David consider questions of faith, formation, and politics. In fact, no matter what happens with our election on Nov 3 and the following week, listening to David Dark will help you "slow the tape" and consider the value of a "righteous culture" that has the capacity to ask questions with a deep attentiveness. Josh offers a lengthy introduction offering updates on the Invitation School of Prayer as well as announcing some other exciting news. If you want to skip directly to the conversation with David, move to around the 19:30 mark to begin. If you've not already subscribed to the Invitation Podcast, please visithttps://www.invitationpodcast.org/subscribe Thanks for listening! Peace of Christ to you!