Branches of Faith
This is an exploration into different houses of religion and an attempt to find any underlying consistencies and commonalities. We visit a different House of Worship each week and report back in the podcast. Members and leaders will also be interviewed. These locations are primarily in the Midwest of USA.
Our running notes and links from research:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/13JSX0jmaPcKR5FagGYXtWafArfKZ9aV_d4s7GfS09jw/edit?usp=drivesdk
Branches of Faith
Latest Episodes
Christian Science: A Deeper Look with the Peoria Society
What would it be like to walk into a church you've never heard much about, where healing happens with prayer and illness and suffering are seen as illusion? In this episode of Branches of Faith, Kate and Ben visit the Christian Science...
Sacred Drumbeats: Exploring Worship at Dayspring Native American UMC
What happens when Native American traditions and Christian faith come together in worship? How does a sacred drum become the heartbeat of a congregation? And what can we learn from a church built with deep reverence for the land it stands on?
Renewed Life and Reciprocity: A Visit to Pastor Quentin’s Church
Episode Description:In this heartfelt episode of Branches of Faith, we take you to Renewed Life Church in Peoria, Illinois, a small yet passionate congregation led by the energetic and inspiring Pastor Quentin Johnson—known ...
Exploring Faith and Culture: A Visit to the Hindu Temple of Central Illinois
In this enlightening episode of Branches of Faith, we step into the vibrant and welcoming community of the Hindu Temple of Central Illinois. Join us as we explore the intricacies of Hindu spirituality, from the colorful deities on the ...
First Church of the Brethren of Peoria
The First Church of the Brethren in Peoria is part of the Church of the Brethren denomination, which emphasizes peace, simplicity, and community. The Church of the Brethren has roots in the Anabaptist movement, originating in Germany in t...
Fan Mail
Hi Ben and Kate. I just listened to your episode about the Baha'is and enjoyed it very much. I subscribed and plan to listen to all the episodes. I am a Baha'i that moved from Peoria to Georgia last year. Because Peoria is a small community at the moment, you might not be aware of the four main areas of outreach in larger communities. The first of these is community devotions, designed to bring neighbors of all backgrounds and faiths to pray and consult together to form vibrant communities filled with fellowship, art and music. The second is the study circle, in which people of all backgrounds are invited to study short books about aspects of the Baha'i Teachings. Another activity is children's class, emphasizing virtues and fellowship with all people. A fourth activity is the Junior Youth Empowerment Project. which educates 12-14 year-olds in how to identify needs within the community and arise to meet those needs. I hope this helps to give a feel for what you might find in a larger Baha'i community. I look forward to hearing all of your episodes. Bradley Wright-Hulett
Peoria, Illinois
