The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry

The message of the angel is as scandalous and striking now as it was then. For in it is embedded God’s message in the death and resurrection of Jesus: to trust and believe in the invincibility of the good in spite of the titanic reality of evil, because God is good all the time. To trust and believe in the enduring power of love, of truth, of the good, and of justice when the reality of the opposite seems so prodigious.

Today's guest on the Way of Love podcast is none other than the Right Reverend Mariann Edgar Budde, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington. Bishop Budde and Bishop Curry delve into her newest book, How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith. Beyond learning about some of the most dramatic and personal moments when Bishop Budde knew she was being called to courageous action, we dig deep on what it means to cultivate and nurture bravery in the daily, small moments of life, and how we can spot the difference between ego and bravery. Bishop Budde also asks us to consider how our failures teach us bravery when we are willing to learn from them. After the Episode Check out Bishop Budde's book, How We Learn to Be Brave: Decisive Moments in Life and Faith, online or at your favorite independent bookstore. And as always, you can learn more about the Way of Love, including how to create your own personal rule of life at episcopalchurch.org.

Our guest today is Capitol recording artist Blessing Offor. Blessing is a Nigerian-born, Connecticut-raised, and Nashville-based singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. In 2023, he and Kory Caudill, musical director for The Episcopal Church’s Concert for the Human Family series, released Cross the River, a song based on the life and work of The Honorable John Lewis, and the first major label release for the project. Bishop Curry talks with Blessing about the new single as well as My Tribe - his latest solo project that brings together soul, pop, R&B, and African styles in service of a universal sound—which he fittingly dubs “the genre of humanity.”. They dive deep into Blessing’s journey of faith alongside his creative journey, from his loss of eyesight at an early age to being woken up by song ideas and even finding God in the music industry. After the Episode Listen to and share Cross the River, the new single from Blessing and Kory Caudill, as well as Blessing’s newest album, My Tribe, available wherever you stream or download music. Find out more about Blessing Offor, including upcoming national tour dates, on his website. Learn more about the Concert for the Human Family, including booking information and tour dates. And as always, you can learn more about the Way of Love, including how to create your own personal rule of life at episcopalchurch.org.

In this episode of the Way of Love podcast, Bishop Curry catches up with the one and only Jen Hatmaker, New York Times-bestselling author, host of the For the Love podcast, and leader of a tightly knit online community where she reaches millions of people every week. They discuss Jen's newest book, Feed These People: Slam-Dunk Recipes for Your Crew, and how meals connect us to life in community. They also discuss the importance of telling the truth about American history--and how we can look out and advocate for folks who are being targeted right now, especially our LGBTQ family members. After the Episode Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Check out Jen Hatmaker's book, Feed These People, online or at your favorite independent bookstore, and visit Jen online at www.jenhatmaker.com.

In this episode of the Way of Love podcast, Bishop Curry talks with the Rev. Russell Levenson, rector of St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Houston and author of the new book, Witness to Dignity: The Life and Faith of George H.W. and Barbara Bush. Fr. Levenson has served as rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church since 2007. With nearly 10,000 members, St. Martin’s is the largest Episcopal Church in North America. Fr. Levenson co-officiated and offered a homily at the state funeral for President George H.W. Bush in Washington, D.C. and in Houston. He also officiated and preached at the funeral for First Lady Barbara Bush in Houston. Bishop Curry and Fr. Levenson discuss the model and legacy of quiet, steadfast faith left by President and Mrs. Bush, and how their lives can inspire ours today. After the Episode Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Check out the Fr. Russel Levenson's new book, Witness to Dignity online or at your favorite independent bookstore.

In this episode of the Way of Love podcast, Bishop Curry talks with Julia Ayala Harris, who was elected president of the House of Deputies by her peers in the House of Deputies at the 80th General Convention of The Episcopal Church in 2022. She is the first Latina and woman of color to hold the position. President Ayala Harris has more than two decades of experience working in the nonprofit sector, particularly with faith-based nonprofits, and she holds a Master of Public Administration. Prior to her election as president of the House of Deputies, she served the church in multiple roles, including on Executive Council as chair of the Joint Standing Committee for Mission Within The Episcopal Church. Bishop Curry and President Ayala Harris's discuss her priorities as PHOD, how the faith traditions she grew up in formed her for this role, and also how focusing on accessibility, inclusivity, and safety fosters institutional accountability. A note of caution for our listeners - this episode contains descriptions of sexual violence that some listeners may find particularly difficult. After the Episode Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Learn more about President Ayala Harris at juliaayalaharris.com, and learn more about the House of Deputies at houseofdeputies.org.

Today’s guest on the Way of Love podcast is Dr. Beth-Sarah Wright—writer, speaker, and passionate advocate for authenticity in our lives and communities. She is director of enrollment management at Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in Atlanta and adjunct professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Wright holds a doctorate from New York University, a master’s from Cambridge University, and a bachelor’s from Princeton University. Originally from Jamaica, she is married to the Rt. Rev. Robert C. Wright, bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, and they are parents to five children. Dr. Wright is also the author of five books, including Dignity: Seven Strategies for Creating Authentic Community, which we will delve into today. After the Episode Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Check out Dr. Wright's latest book, Dignity: Seven Strategies for Creating Authentic Community online or at your favorite independent bookstore. Follow Dr. Wright's work on her website.

Jesus came to show us how to live, reconciled with God, and with each other, and He taught us that the way to do it is God's way of love. For God's way of love is God's way of life. It's our hope for our families, our communities, our societies. Indeed, it is our hope for the whole world. For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, and love came down at Christmas. And as some of us are beginning to say in this Episcopal church of ours, “Love always.” Watch and share Presiding Bishop Michael B. Curry's 2022 Christmas message now at episcopalchurch.org.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with the Rev. Adrian Dannhauser, priest in charge at Church of the Incarnation in Manhattan and author of the new book, Ask Me for a Blessing: (You Know You Need One). Every Tuesday, Rev. Dannhauser stands outside her church in New York City with a sign that says: "Ask me for a blessing (because God knows you need one). The incredible stories of how New Yorkers responded populate her both her book--and this conversation with Bishop Curry. The two explore what giving and receiving blessings really means, and how curiosity is our best friend when we are doing the work of evangelism. They discuss how spiritual and religious practices draw us closer to God and to one another and the importance of proclaiming the Good News by going out into the streets like Jesus did. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Check out Adrian's new book, Ask Me for a Blessing: (You Know You Need One) online or at your favorite independent bookstore. Follow Adrian's work on her website.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with Dr. Thema Bryant, clinical psychologist, incoming president of the American Psychological Association, professor of psychology at Pepperdine University, and an ordained minister in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Dr. Thema invites us to pause and look more closely at the intersection of spirituality and psychology – what are the bounds of each and how and where do they overlap? She encourages us to hold on to the spiritual and religious practices that have always drawn us closer to God and also explores the themes of the sacred now, interconnectedness of all living beings, mindfulness, generosity, surrender, self-compassion, and humility. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Check out Dr. Thema's new book, Homecoming: Overcome Fear and Trauma to Reclaim Your Whole, Authentic Self online or at your favorite independent bookstore. Follow Dr. Thema's work on her website and on her social media channels.

In this episode, Bishop Curry sits down with the Rev. Jay Sidebotham. Jay is an artist, an Episcopal priest, and the founder of Renewal Works, and co-creator of My Way of Love – a personal guide for your spiritual journey. My Way of Love is a free resource that offers coaching and tips that can help folks grow by following the seven practices for Jesus-centered life: turn, learn, pray, worship, bless, go, and rest. Practices that help all of us, me included, grow deeper in the love of God, neighbor, and ourselves. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Visit the My Way of Love page on episcopalchurch.org to take your own Spiritual Life Inventory and get started on your own personalized journey on the Way of Love. Check out the Rev. Jay Sidebotham's work with RenewalWorks and Forward Movement.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with Heather Kirn Lanier – an essayist, poet, and creative writing professor. Heather's memoir, Raising A Rare Girl, invites us into her first year of parenting a daughter born with a rare syndrome. Bishop Curry talks with her about how we can change our life and the lives of those we encounter by changing our perspective and looking for the good in every person. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Find out more about Heather Kirn Lanier's work on her website. You can purchase Raising a Rare Girl online here or wherever books are sold.

Following a Jan. 6 noon Epiphany service at Church of the Epiphany in Washington, D.C., Episcopal Church Presiding Bishop Michael Curry shared words of reflection and exhortation to the church and nation in a recorded message from the Lincoln Memorial. “The nightmare of last January 6th was not just an event—it was a revelation,” he said. “It was a revelation of deeply dangerous divisions in our nation. … That day, and our response to it, contain potential for both peril and promise.” On the web: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/publicaffairs/presiding-bishop-curry-highlights-moment-of-peril-and-promise-on-one-year-anniversary-of-jan-6-attack/

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with Bryan Stevenson – author, lawyer, and founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative, a human rights organization in Montgomery, Alabama – about what it means to remember, reorient, and renew an active faith in Jesus and his Way of Love. This episode is a 3-part conversation recorded for the Episcopal Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast’s December 4 Jubilee Revival: Just Mercy, Just Jesus. In this conversation, Bishop Curry and Stevenson reflect on three bits of scripture: Matthew 16:13-19; Luke 10:25-37; and Romans 5:1-5. This season of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group, a financial services organization providing employee benefits, property and casualty insurance, and publishing to The Episcopal Church. Follow CPG on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to learn how it’s been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Find out more about the work of the Equal Justice Initiative. Learn more about how Church Pension Group has been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. Watch all of the Diocese of the Central Gulf Coast’s revival, Just Mercy, Just Jesus. Don’t forget to post on social media how you’re BLESSing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with the Very Rev. Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas, Dean of the Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary. This audio comes from the 2020 International Black Clergy Conference, presented by The Episcopal Church’s Office of Black Ministries. To Worship on the Way of Love is to gather in community weekly to thank, praise, and dwell with God. Dean Brown Douglas and Bishop Curry discuss their understanding of being Black Episcopalians, and the lessons that the whole Church can learn from the earliest days of the Black Church through to the present day. As we explore our relationships with God, as we draw closer to God, we will find ourselves, in turn, drawing closer to each other. This season of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group, a financial services organization providing employee benefits, property and casualty insurance, and publishing to The Episcopal Church. Follow CPG on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to learn how it’s been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Discover more about The Episcopal Church’s Office of Black Ministries. Learn more about how Church Pension Group has been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. Discover how you can Prepare to Become Beloved Community this Advent. Don’t forget to post on social media how you’re WORSHIPing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with Kory Caudill and Wordsmith, two musicians supporting the Concert for the Human Family series – a project in collaboration with The Episcopal Church’s Becoming Beloved Community initiative, which seeks to build a world where all people may experience dignity and abundant life and see themselves and others as beloved children of God. To Go on the Way of Love is to cross boundaries, listen deeply, and live like Jesus. Kory and Wordsmith demonstrate how they’ve crossed musical boundaries in the pursuit of real and true reconciliation. As they’ve worked to support the concert series, built around the Prayer for the Human Family from the Book of Common Prayer, they discuss how music calls us into deeper relationship with God and each other. This season of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group, a financial services organization providing employee benefits, property and casualty insurance, and publishing to The Episcopal Church. Follow CPG on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to learn how it’s been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Say the Prayer for the Human Family from the Book of Common Prayer. Learn more about how Church Pension Group has been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. Find out how you can participate in the Concert for the Human Family. Don’t forget to post on social media how you’re GOing this week, using #WayofLove. Subscribe now and listen each week wherever you get your podcasts or at wayoflove.episcopalchurch.org.

In this episode, recorded in July 2020, Bishop Curry talks with the Most Rev. Thabo Makgoba, Anglican Archbishop of Cape Town, South Africa. Archbishop Thabo’s life is punctuated with stories of hope and oppression, joy and anger, truth and reconciliation. To Pray on the Way of Love is to dwell intentionally with God each day, whether in though, word, or deed, individually or corporately. Far from a trite bit of advice or a platitude awkwardly expressed or a passive response to injustice, prayer is an intensely powerful practice that centers us on our relationship with God and undergirds the love we show to neighbors. Bishop Curry and Archbishop Makgoba discuss how prayer has been integral to the work of peace with justice in South Africa – through ministries and advocacy from the environment to racial reconciliation. As members of the worldwide Anglican Communion, The Episcopal Church and the Anglican Church of Southern Africa work with partners around the world to share the love of God and neighbor in our varied contexts. This season of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group, a financial services organization providing employee benefits, property and casualty insurance, and publishing to The Episcopal Church. Follow CPG on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn to learn how it’s been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. See how The Episcopal Church’s Office of Global Partnerships builds bridges beyond ourselves, including in South Africa. Learn more about how Church Pension Group has been a stable presence in the Church for more than 100 years. Check out Archbishop Thabo’s book, Faith & Courage: Praying with Mandela. Don’t forget to post on social media how you’re PRAYing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with legendary leader Ruby Sales about her long and enduring work for civil rights and freedom in the United States. The two discuss how she was introduced to these movements, her search for a calling, and the potential of The Episcopal Church to lead in honest racial justice and reconciliation. To Go on the Way of Love is to cross boundaries, listen deeply, and live like Jesus. To do any of these things, and to have any hope of healing, we need to be able to tell each other the truth and go, as Ruby Sales says, “where it hurts.” Bishop Curry and Sales discuss how going where it hurts led to an encounter with Jonathan Myrick Daniels, an Episcopal seminarian whose ministry in Lowndes County, Alabama would lead to his martyrdom and her decades-long legacy of justice-making. They describe seeing past a dualistic understanding of history and toward a spiritual revolution that can actually affect change in society. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Consider where you and your congregation can Go through Becoming Beloved Community NOW. Watch our most recent episode of Traveling the Way of Love: Liverpool. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're GOing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks with Richard Rohr, OFM, about what it takes to turn and follow a Christ as big as the universe, choosing the Way of Love instead of the ways of our egos. The two discuss the spiritualities of addition and subtraction and the consequences for our country and ourselves when we spend more time placing Jesus on a pedestal than we do actively following him. The good news in all of this is that, like Fr. Rohr and Bishop Curry, we are all called by Jesus to follow the Way of Love. With God’s help, we can turn from the powers of sin, hatred, fear, injustice, and oppression toward the way of truth, love, hope, justice, and freedom. It is this reorienting of our whole selves - body, mind, and soul - on the love and life of Jesus that leads us away from cynicism and into freedom. This episode of The Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Church Divinity School of the Pacific. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Listen to Richard Rohr’s Another Name for Everything Podcast. Join in honoring all of creation through the Good News Garden Movement. Learn more about Church Divinity School of the Pacific. Consider where you and your congregation can Turn through our free offerings around Becoming Beloved Community. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're TURNing week, using #WayofLove. Resources mentioned during this episode: Reclaiming Jesus The Perfect Joy of St. Francis by Felix Timmermans The Universal Christ by Richard Rohr Center for Action and Contemplation Another Name for Everything Podcast

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks to Shane Claiborne, founder of the Simple Way and co-founder of Red Letter Christians, about the importance of spending time in the words of Jesus and allowing them to directly inform our thinking and actions. The two discuss what it means to pay particular attention to the “red letters” of the Bible – those in which Jesus is directly teaching and guiding us, even now. To learn on the Way of Love is to reflect on Scripture each day, especially on Jesus’ life and teachings. In a world that is only too eager to use scripture to justify cruelty, judgmentalism, and party politics, we as Christians are called to keep re-centering our lives and minds on our Lord’s words– to help bring about God’s dream for ourselves, our societies, and the whole world. This episode of The Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Learn about Emory University's Candler School of Theology. Hear more from Bishop Curry on an episode of Traveling the Way of Love. Try a daily meditation on Scripture like Forward Movement's Forward Day by Day. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're LEARNing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks to Jeff Chu, who tells us about his extraordinary career as a journalist, farmer, writer, editor, teacher, and Christian thinker – and how he has come to see God moving throughout those roles. Having spent time among groups of people who radically disagree – about the Church, about human sexuality, about love itself – he describes some of the lessons he’s learned along the way. Resting on the Way of Love is receiving the gift of God’s grace, peace, and restoration. The two reflect on storytelling, Sabbath, and the ways we are called to pause, to look back on our experiences, and to begin to understand where God has led us and is currently leading us. This episode of The Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Emory University’s Candler School of Theology. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Discover how Church Pension Group is supporting your congregation now. Watch an episode of Traveling the Way of Love about what it means to truly rest. Consider how your congregation or ministry could use the Office of Government Relations’ Civil Discourse curriculum. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're RESTing this week, using #WayofLove.

In this episode, Bishop Curry talks to Teddy Reeves, the assistant curator of religion at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. Reeves’ extensive work with “gOD-talk: a black millennials and faith conversation series” give him particular insight into concerning and hopeful trends for the future of Christianity in the United States. Blessing on the Way of Love – that is, sharing faith and unselfishly giving and serving – often involves uncomfortable – and life-giving – conversation and action. The two discuss the importance of sharing stories, joys, and concerns with each other, noting that earnestly listening to each other is the best way to move congregations and individuals forward. This episode of The Way of Love Podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Discover how Church Pension Group is supporting your congregation now. Get ready to practice StorySharing with the Beloved Community StorySharing Campaign. Learn about a new way of doing evangelism through Embracing Evangelism when it’s released on May 19. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're BLESSing this week, using #WayofLove. Subscribe now and listen each week wherever you get your podcasts or at wayoflove.episcopalchurch.org.

In this episode, Bishop Curry sits down with the Rev. Nadia Bolz-Weber – a Lutheran pastor, author, and speaker from Denver, Colorado. They discuss how sharing our stories with honesty - through the “ministry of going first” - can help us cross the boundaries of loneliness and inequality – teaching us to GO in a time of intensifying hurt and division in our world. This episode of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by For People, a new podcast with Bishop Rob Wright about finding and holding on to Faith in the midst of the challenges of an ever-changing world. Listen via your favorite podcast player and learn more at episcopalatlanta.org/forpeople. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Listen to Bishop Rob Wright’s new podcast, For People. Support the life-giving work of Episcopal Migration Ministries. Consider where you and your congregation can Go through our free offerings around Becoming Beloved Community. Don’t forget to post on social media how you're GOing this week, using the hashtag #WayofLove.

Welcome to this brand-new season of the Way of Love Podcast with Bishop Michael Curry. This season, we’ll be bringing you even more of Bishop Curry’s conversations with faith leaders, authors, and thinkers who are committed to following the Way of Jesus in the world today. Framed by the Way of Love – those seven practices of turning, learning, praying, worshipping, blessing, going, and resting – we’ll hear stories and lessons about how each of us can grow closer to God in our daily lives. In this episode, Bishop Curry sits down with Jen Hatmaker to discover how, among many changes, opportunities, setbacks – and even a television show! – she and her family have paused, listened, and reoriented themselves again and again toward Jesus and his Way of Love. We’ll hear about her shift from a self-centered to an other-centered faith, and how one unconventional fast deeply impacted her. This episode of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Trinity Church Wall Street, which offers services streamed live and on demand in HD six days a week. After the Podcast Learn more about the Way of Love and creating your own rule of life based around the practices of Turn, Learn, Pray, Worship, Bless, Go, and Rest. Read Jen Hatmaker's newest book, Fierce, Free, and Full of Fire. When you have a spare moment, drop into a beautiful service on Trinity Church Wall Street's livestream page. And don't forget to post on social media how you're turning this week, using the hashtag #WayofLove.

As part of a special online broadcast of their Service of Holy Eucharist on the Third Sunday in Lent (March 15, 2020), Presiding Bishop Michael Curry delivered the sermon at Washington National Cathedral, remotely from his home in North Carolina. Links Video Link COVID-19 Information and Resources from The Episcopal Church

In this final podcast episode from our live show at Rooted in Jesus in Atlanta, Bishop Curry answers questions from our audience. He also teams up with the Rev. Tim Schenck of Lent Madness to fill out a 2020 bracket and pick his big winner for this year's Golden Halo. If you want to follow along with that part of their conversation, we've posted a bracket link below. At the end of the episode, we have a bittersweet announcement about a personnel transition. This is our last episode with co-host and lead producer Kyle Oliver, who is moving on to a new ministry position. Godspeed, Kyle! We'll be on a short break with a new format just after Easter. In the meantime, check out the Hometown podcast, offered by our friends at Episcopal Migration Ministries. Hosted by Allison Duvall and Kendall Martin, this podcast features interviews with people resettled to the U.S. as refugees, history and background on refugee-producing countries, interviews with authors, and spiritual reflections from lay and clergy across the Church. Links Full Frederick Faber poem 2020 Lent Madness Bracket Rooted in Jesus Conference Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this second of three podcast episodes from our live show at Rooted in Jesus in Atlanta, Bishop Curry welcomes back the Very Rev. Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas, dean of Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary. The two discuss what the love of Jesus has to do with Dean Douglas's very first childhood experiences as a theologian, as well as her advocacy for equal treatment and opportunity for all persons in society and in what we "aspirationally" call the Church. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez This episode of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Episcopal Church Foundation. Links Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary Rooted in Jesus Conference Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this first of three podcast episodes from our live show at Rooted in Jesus in Atlanta, Bishop Curry welcomes the Rev. Dr. William Barber, president of Repairers of the Breach, architect of the Moral Mondays Movement, and Co-Chair of the Poor People’s Campaign: A National Call for Moral Revival. The two discuss what the love of Jesus has to do with Bishop Barber's political activism and organizing, which seeks to address five interlocking injustices: systemic racism, systemic poverty, ecological devastation, the war economy, and distorted and misguided religious nationalism. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez This episode of the Way of Love podcast is sponsored by Episcopal Church Foundation. Links Repairers of the Breach Rooted in Jesus Conference Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

This week, we’re bringing you the second part of Dean Kelly Brown Douglas' recent interview with Bishop Curry. If you missed the first part of the conversation, we recommend that you start with that episode (the previous one in your feed: Season 2, Episode 13). In this week's excerpt, Bishop Curry and Dean Douglas discuss what difference Jesus' life and teachings make for Christians' engagement with the current U.S. political moment. If you're in Atlanta this week for the Rooted in Jesus Conference, join us Wednesday at 10 am for a live show featuring both Dean Douglas and the Rev. Dr. William Barber, co-chair of the Poor People's Campaign: A National Call for a Moral Revival. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Editorial Assistance Credit: Erin Wiens St. John Links Video Link Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this week's bonus episode, the first of a two-part series, Bishop Curry is interviewed by The Very Rev. Dr. Kelly Brown Douglas, Dean of Episcopal Divinity School at Union Theological Seminary. The two discuss the legacy of slavery in their childhood experiences, and how the history of racial discrimination in The Episcopal Church and Anglican Communion has shaped their ministry. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Editorial Assistance Credit: Erin Wiens St. John Links Video Link Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

Bishop Curry shares the message of hope triumphing over despair, as told in the first chapter of John's gospel. Merry Christmas from Bishop Curry, Sandy, Kyle, and the whole Way of Love podcast team! Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Christmas Message – Video and Text Version Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

Bishop Curry is back in our latest bonus episode! He interviews The Rev. Lydia Bucklin of the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan. The two spoke about the story of UP Wild Church and some of its community practices. Don't miss this conversation if you're seeking another model of worship and community that speaks deeply to people who care about our environment and are seeking a slower pace of life. Our next bonus episode will drop in a little over a week. We'll let you do the math on who and what we might have to celebrate then. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Editorial Assistance Credit: Erin Wiens St. John Links UP Wild Church Wild Church Network Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

For this second bonus episode after Season 2, Bishop Curry also has an extended interview to share. In the final episode of the season, we heard him in conversation with Lynnaia Main about the connections between the practice of rest and care for God's creation. This week we're releasing a bit of that interview you didn't hear previously: when the two discuss in more depth the relationship between faith communities and the United Nations. Our next bonus episode will drop in two weeks (December 17) and will also feature Bishop Curry! Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Editorial Assistance Credit: Erin Wiens St. John Links Original Episode: Resting in and with the Land Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

Now that we've wrapped up Season 2, Sandy and Kyle have a special extended interview to share. In our second practice-based episode this season, we heard a short conversation with The Rev. Patricia Lyons about her work with young people exploring God's presence in pop culture, especially the Harry Potter books and films. This week we're releasing that full interview. It's a bit longer than a typical Way of Love episode, but we think you'll really enjoy it. Our next bonus episode will drop in two weeks (December 3) and will feature the return of Bishop Curry! Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Original Episode: Learning to Meet People Where They Are Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

Rest is more than sleep or mindless consuming - it’s a deep-seated principle and practice that God invites us to undertake for our own health and for the health of this fragile earth, our island home. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss resting in and with the land. Just as we must remember to receive God’s restoration ourselves, we also must let the creation rest and be restored. We hear from Lynnaia Main, The Episcopal Church’s representative to the United Nations, discussing how we can adjust our mindsets from the fear of scarcity to joy at the abundance that surrounds us. We also hear from the Rev. Nurya Love Parish, the founder of Plainsong Farm, talking about how we can incorporate the concept of Sabbath rest into communal life and the life of the creation itself. Watch for season 3 of The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry - coming to your podcast feeds in early 2020. Our theme and reflection music are by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzman. This episode of The Way of Love Podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group. LINKS Read about The Episcopal Church at the United Nations Learn about Plainsong Farm Reflection Guide Transcript

Prayer is inviting and dwelling in God’s loving presence - a practice that can sometimes be daunting, but is ultimately one of the most important things we do as Christians. Whether by boldly offering our thanksgivings and concerns to God, simply listening for God’s voice in our lives, or infusing our work with prayer, we can find ourselves drawing nearer and nearer to him. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss prayer on the Way of Love. Andrea McKellar and Bishop Curry share some prayerful practices that take place beyond the church walls, including hiking, neighborhood walks, and phone apps that can remind us to take time to come before God every day. We also hear from Roger Hutchison, Director of Christian Formation and Parish Life at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston. An artist, writer, and lay leader, Roger describes how prayer informs and shapes his work - especially around grief, painting, and his newest offering, The Very Best Day: The Way of Love for Children (Church Publishing, January 2020). Next week on the podcast: Resting in and with the Land Our theme and reflection music are by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzman. LINKS Learn about Pop-up Prayer See Roger Hutchison’s Offerings on Amazon Reflection Guide Transcript

When we go on the Way of Love, we cross boundaries, listen deeply, and live like Jesus. Whether God calls us to go across the street or across the world, we are sent beyond our circles and comfort to witness to the love, justice, and truth of God with our lips and with our lives. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss “going” on the Way of Love. We learn about both sides of the practice: having the faith to step out into the world and being able to receive the gift of hospitality graciously. Bishop Curry tells a story of trust - about coming to understand that God is already present, wherever we are sent. We also hear from the Rev. Katie Nakamura Rengers, founder of The Abbey, a church and coffee shop ministry in the Avondale neighborhood of Birmingham, Alabama. We learn about the ways this community both serves and is served by loving neighbors -- neighbors who might be looking for more than an excellent cup of coffee. Next week on the podcast: Praying with Our Bodies and Our Creativity Our theme and reflection music are by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzman. LINKS Find out how you can Go with The Episcopal Church’s Global Partnerships Team Learn more about The Abbey Reflection Guide Transcript

When we worship, we gather with others before God. We hear the Good News of Jesus Christ, give thanks, confess, and offer the brokenness of the world to God. So many of our worship experiences take place within a church building - it can be hard to imagine worship without candles and stained glass and pews - but there are many ways we can bring worship out into the wider world, knowing that God is out there, too. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss worshiping on the Way of Love: Gathering in community weekly to thank, praise, and dwell with God. Bishop Curry reflects on how we can show God’s love boldly in our communities while also being respectful of neighbors who believe differently. We also hear from Hugo Olaiz, associate editor of Latino-Hispanic resources for Forward Movement. Hugo tells us about a worship experience that by definition occurs beyond the church walls: Las Posadas. He explains his own practices of Las Posadas and reflects on the witness this tradition makes possible: witness to the importance of hospitality, of community, and of the story of the Holy Family. Next week on the podcast: Going into the Neighborhood to Listen Deeply Our theme and reflection music are by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzmann. LINKS Watch Traveling the Way of Love: Worship, an exploration of the practice with the Rev. Elsa Marty of St. Lydia’s Church in Brooklyn Learn more about Las Posadas Reflection Guide Transcript

Just like the disciples who heard the call to turn from their fishing nets toward Jesus, we are each beckoned to reorient our lives to God, falling in love again, again, and again. But what exactly are we turning from? And what are we to turn toward? In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss turning on the Way of Love: pausing, listening, and choosing to follow Jesus. Bishop Curry reflects on people who are helping us to find a new way in society, assisting us as we turn from fear, anxiousness, desperation, and sin, back toward confidence, boldness, hope, and redemption. We also hear from Ruth Anderson and Greg Farrand of the Second Breath Center in Greensboro, N.C., where people who are “overloaded, overscheduled, overwhelmed and overstimulated” can step away and reorient their lives. Ruth and Greg offer tips and ideas to get started along that path as we bring ourselves back to the most important things in life. Next week on the podcast: Worshiping in Public as Witness Our theme and reflection music are by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzmann. This episode of The Way of Love Podcast is sponsored by the Episcopal Church Foundation. LINKS Learn more about the Second Breath Center Reflection Guide Transcript Traveling the Way of Love: Turn

When God’s Word becomes ingrained in our lives, we can better see God’s activity within and around us and others. We can then tell that story in ways that are authentic to us and that others can understand. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss learning on the Way of Love: reflecting on Scripture each day, especially Jesus’ life and teachings. We hear from Jerusalem Greer, staff officer for evangelism at The Episcopal Church, discussing how parents can share their faith with adult children. Later, Kyle and Sandy interview the Rev. Patricia Lyons, who uses popular cultural references and stories to help us recognize God at work in the world and in our lives. Next week on the podcast: Turning to hope for the world and in our lives. Our theme and reflection music is by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our show notes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzmann. This episode of The Way of Love Podcast is sponsored by Forward Movement. LINKS Subscribe to Forward Movement’s Forward Day by Day podcast Learn more about the Way of Love Reflection Guide Transcript

If we were to distill the essence of the Christian faith, we would always come back to the reality of love – not as a sentimental feeling or a sugary concept – but as a disciplined and spiritual way of life. In this episode, Bishop Michael Curry and hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss blessing on the Way of Love: sharing faith and unselfishly giving and serving. We can bless others – and be blessed ourselves! – through the gifts of our presence and relationships with our neighbors. We also hear from Greg Russinger, co-founder of Laundry Love. This nationwide ministry exists not only to encourage churches to care for others but to help churches walk with and get to know their neighbors who need laundry assistance. In walking with, caring for, and even doing laundry among our neighbors, all of us can be changed and blessed. Next week on the podcast: Learning to Meet People Where They Are Our theme and reflection music is by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides. Chris Sikkema writes our show notes and our website is by Kaleb Heitzmann. This episode of The Way of Love Podcast is sponsored by Church Pension Group. LINKS See a video about Laundry Love at Thad’s Learn more about Laundry Love Learn about Asset-Based Community Development Learn more about the Way of Love Reflection Guide Transcript Traveling the Way of Love: Bless

Join Bishop Michael Curry of The Episcopal Church as he guides us through the practices of the Way of Love: turn, learn, pray, worship, bless, go, and rest. In season 2 of this podcast, Bishop Curry talks with our hosts, Sandy Milien and Kyle Oliver, and others about following the Way of Love - beyond the church walls. Subscribe now and listen each week wherever you get your podcasts or at wayoflove.episcopalchurch.org. Next week on the podcast: Mutual blessing through presence & relationships Our theme and reflection music is by Ana Hernández. Jerusalem Greer writes our reflection guides, Chris Sikkema writes our shownotes, and our website is by Kaleb Heitzmann. LINKS Meet Bishop Michael Curry Meet Sandy and Kyle More about the Way of Love Reflection Guide Transcript

Bishop Curry and Sandy recently attended Evento de Jóvenes Episcopales, the Episcopal Youth Event for youth (and young adults*) in Province IX of The Episcopal Church. Province IX includes many Latin American countries. The theme of the event was—you guessed it—The Way of Love. In this final bonus episode before the launch of Season 2, Bishop Curry and Sandy talk about their experience at the event, and Sandy and Kyle discuss several powerful stories shared by event participants about embracing Way of Love practices in their contexts. *Note: In the Latin American context, jóvenes refers to the 16–26 age range, and most participants at EJE were 17–23. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez More coverage of Evento de Jóvenes Episcopales Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this second bonus episode following Season 1, we release the full recording of Bishop Curry's Way of Love sermon excerpted in our very first episode. He introduces the text from the prophet Isaiah, discusses its proclamation of peace and encounter, reviews the great commandment of love, and reflects on his experience preaching at the Royal Wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. Our next bonus episode will drop in two weeks (September 3) and will be a documentary about Bishop Curry and Sandy's recent trip to Panama for Evento de Jóvenes Episcopales (EJE). Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this first bonus episode following Season 1, Sandy and Kyle discuss what it's like having The Way of Love out in the world. They talk about the experience of sharing their own stories and hearing feedback from listeners. They also announce the theme ("Beyond the Church Walls") and launch date (September 17) for Season 2. Our next bonus episode will drop in two weeks (August 20), featuring the return of Bishop Curry! Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Way of Love Blog Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love

In this last episode of Season 1, we reflect on what it means to “Go”. As Jesus went to the highways and byways, he sends us beyond our circles and comfort, to witness to the love, justice, and truth of God with our lips and with our lives. We go to listen with humility and to join God in healing a hurting world. We go to become Beloved Community, a people reconciled in love with God and one another. In this episode, Bishop Curry teaches about living where the rubber meets the road, explaining how we can take all we’ve learned about the Way of Love and put it into action. Everywhere we go, we can follow and seek the living presence of Jesus. Hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss what Go has meant in their contexts - from walking to church services to serving jury duty. They also share exciting news about where Sandy is going next. Season 2 of The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry is coming in September. Watch your feeds in the weeks ahead for some bonus content from the team behind The Way of Love. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Way of Love Blog Episode 8 Reflection Guide Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love Episode Transcript

On the Way of Love, we don’t only practice turning away from destructive things, but also turning ourselves toward God – like a flower setting its face toward the sun. In our daily lives, we are called to reorient ourselves to Jesus and his loving, liberating, life-giving Way. In this episode, Bishop Curry and Canon Stephanie Spellers talk about the sometimes hard – but still very important – concepts of sin and redemption. They explain that when we find ourselves victims of our own self-centeredness, when we fail to live and love like we should, we can always turn back toward truth, love, hope, justice, and freedom. Hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss their experiences of hearing God calling them to make turns in their own lives and how they’ve changed as a result. Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links A Covenant for Those Committing to the Way Of Love Traveling the Way of Love: Turn Episode 7 Reflection Guide Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love Episode Transcript

When we practice blessing on the Way of Love, we walk with others, listening to and sharing stories, journeying into a deeper relationship with the living God we have known in Jesus Christ. In this episode, Bishop Curry and Canon Stephanie Spellers talk about how we are called to care for each other; how we can seek, name, and celebrate Jesus’ loving presence in the stories of all people (including ourselves); and how we can live in gratitude for all the blessings of this life. Hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss what they have learned about what it means to be a blessing in the Way of Love – to be a people empowered by the Spirit to bless everyone we meet, practicing generosity and compassion, and proclaiming the Good News of God in Christ with hopeful words and selfless actions. Next week on the podcast: Turn Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Traveling the Way of Love: Bless Episode 6 Reflection Guide Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum More about the Way of Love Episode Transcript

Whether you’ve read the Bible several times through or haven’t opened one in years, there is always spiritual growth possible through reading and reflecting on Scripture—especially the life and teachings of Jesus. More than just memorizing verses, we are called to dwell in and reflect on God’s word, letting it form us on the Way of Love. In this episode, Bishop Curry, Kyle, and Sandy talk about their favorite verses and methods for diving deeply into the stories and lessons of Scripture. By learning and becoming familiar with those stories and insights, we are better able to see God’s story unfolding all around us. Next week on the podcast: Bless Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Forward Day by Day Scripture Meditations Episode 5 Reflection Guide Way of Love Resources from Church Publishing Experiencing Jesus Podcast: Learn More about the Way of Love Episode Transcript

It can sometimes be hard to worship regularly. With competing priorities, everyday stresses, and our otherwise busy lives, we might ask, “Why should I have to go somewhere else in order to worship a God who’s all around me?” In this episode, Bishop Curry teaches about how regular worship can both help us to deny self-interest as the main aim of life and also re-center our lives on God. Hosts Kyle and Sandy discuss how what we do in worship – whether that involves incense and bells or whispered prayers and guitars – forms and changes us. As we gather with our neighbors, we are called out of ourselves, placed in community, pointed toward God, and reminded of the mystery at the heart of creation. We are made one body: the body of Christ sent forth into the world. Next week on the podcast: Learn Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links Traveling the Way of Love: Worship Episode 4 Reflection Guide Nine-Session Way of Love Curriculum How2charist Digital Instructed Communion Service Episcopal Asset Map (find churches and more) More about the Way of Love Episode Transcript

In a world that often confuses rest with sleep or passive consumption or a means to do more later, God invites us to dedicate time for restoration and wholeness – within our bodies, minds, and souls, and within our communities and institutions. By resting, we place our trust in God, the primary actor who brings all things to their fullness. But that doesn’t mean resting is always easy. If rest is so good and so important, why do so many of us find it so difficult to practice? Bishop Curry talks about how living near an Orthodox Jewish community in Baltimore helped him to finally understand the value of real sabbath-taking, along with the challenges and opportunities that come with it. Join us this week as we talk about stepping away from the noise and activity of daily life – even for a moment or two – and stepping closer to God and each other. Next week on the podcast: Worship Music Credits: Ana Hernandez; “Dragon Country (Apple & Clove)” by Axeltree via Free Music Archive (CC BY 4.0) Links More about the Way of Love Episode 3 Reflection Guide Episcopal Camps and Conference Centers Oliver Sacks’ article, “Sabbath” Traveling the Way of Love: Rest Episode Transcript

More than simply going through a daily routine, prayer can be an opportunity to be authentic with God and ourselves, to connect with each other, and to be transformed. In this episode of The Way of Love with Bishop Michael Curry, we’ll think about the many ways we can listen for and respond to God’s voice in our lives and in the world. Kyle and Sandy interview the Rev. Canon Katie Churchwell, who started an online prayer ministry during the isolating, dangerous days of Hurricane Irma in Florida. Pop-Up Prayer continues today, having built an online community where people are committed to praying and growing together. How can we create a practice of prayer that works for us? Listen as we discuss methods of praying alone or in groups, aloud or silently, with words or with the thoughts of our hearts. Next week on the podcast: Rest Music Credits: Ana Hernandez Links More about the Way of Love Episode 2 Reflection Guide Pop-Up Prayer with Canon Katie Traveling the Way of Love: Pray Thy Kingdom Come, a Global Prayer Movement Episode Transcript

The deep roots of the Christian tradition offer a spiritual path toward deeper relationship with God, neighbor, and self. For centuries, monastic communities have shaped their lives around rhythms and disciplines for following Jesus together. Such a pattern is known as a “rule of life.” When we commit to turn, learn, pray, worship, bless, go, and rest, we are engaging in and growing a rule of life. But what does that really mean? In this episode, Presiding Bishop Michael Curry, along with hosts Kyle Oliver and Sandy Milien, teaches us how we can use the Way of Love to train up our spirits, just like athletes train their bodies. In an interview with the Rev. Lorenzo Lebrija, Bishop Curry discusses what that training might look like and how we can continually strive toward spiritual growth and depth—and importantly, how to get back up when we fall down. Next week on the podcast: Pray. For the remainder of Season 1, episodes will drop every Tuesday. Music Credit: Ana Hernandez Links More about the Way of Love Bishop Curry Video about the Way of Love Practices Episode 1 Reflection Guide Nine-Session Way of Love Guide

Join Bishop Michael Curry of The Episcopal Church as he guides us along the Way of Love. This season, hosts Kyle Oliver and Sandy Milien talk with Bishop Curry and others committed to growing in love by turning, learning, praying, worshipping, blessing, going, and resting. Subscribe now and listen wherever you get your podcasts. Music Credit: Ana Hernandez Links Learn more about the Way of Love Meet Bishop Michael Curry Meet Sandy & Kyle