Topic: Church

A personal narrative details receiving an invitation to a new church building opening ten years after a painful departure involving a perceived lack of support during a difficult period. Despite initial resistance and memories of negligence from leadership, the decision to attend was driven by a desire to move past "small man mentality" and listen to gut instinct. This internal conflict highlights the difference between low-value avoidance and the high-value choice to seek positive possibilities in uncomfortable environments.

The conversation addresses the lack of specialized support for blended families within religious institutions. Poizner notes that many pastors focus on saving marriages but lack the tools to support families after a divorce or during remarriage. This often leads to "cookie-cutter" advice that ignores the unique logistical and emotional realities of non-traditional households.

Tony shares his personal experience as a 52-year-old black man who was asymptomatic for COVID-19 and the subsequent pointing of fingers at the black community during the pandemic. He describes the collective trauma felt by his church congregation following the death of George Floyd. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of dialogue to diagnose and heal the pain caused by systemic injustice.

A pastor suggests that the church should lead the way in modeling reconciliation and repentance. He recommends resources such as "Be the Bridge" by Latasha Morrison and "White Fragility" to help people move past guilt and toward restoration. The segment concludes with a warning that failing to pay attention to social injustices can lead to the rise of extremist regimes, citing the historical example of Adolf Hitler.

Host Jonnie Jensen welcomes guests Tony Ashley and Errol Lawson, detailing their professional backgrounds and long-standing friendships. Tony Ashley, a Baptist minister based in Stoke Newington, discusses his transition from the British Transport Police to ministry, while Errol Lawson describes his work leading The Bridge Church in Birmingham and his leadership development business. Both guests express their commitment to community impact and mentoring families.

Tony Ashley reveals that he changed his professional name from Leroy to Tony to secure job interviews and avoid racial bias during the recruitment process. He describes "a thousand little cuts" of daily racism, such as being ignored in restaurants or seeing women clutch their handbags when he walks by. The conversation also touches on racial intolerance within religious institutions, including the unwelcoming treatment of Iranian immigrants in predominantly white churches.

Errol Lawson describes the recent planting of his church in Birmingham and his transition into the role of senior pastor. He explains how his faith has served as a consistent compass through the challenges of running a business and pursuing his calling since 2007. The segment highlights the personal fulfillment Lawson finds in helping others grow in their spiritual freedom and faith.