Red Letter Christians Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Church of Courage: Confronting Immigration Challenges May 23, 2025

Show notes

BONUS EPISODE: Shane talks with Rev. Erich Kussman whose church has created a sanctuary space for vulnerable families and has been organizing to protect immigrant neighbors from deportation. He was also present when the Mayor of Newark was arrested by federal agents.

Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

A Decade After Emanuel: Rev. Sharon Risher's Path of Forgiveness May 23, 2025

Show notes

June 17 is the 10th anniversary of the mass shooting in Emanuel AME church which killed 9 people. June is also Gun Violence Awareness Month. Shane talks with Rev. Sharon Risher whose mother, Ethel Lance, was killed in Emanuel AME and who has become one of the most prominent leaders in the movement to end gun violence, and the death penalty, in the US.

Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

Secrets of the Killing State | author, Corinna Lain May 16, 2025

Show notes

Shane talks with law professor and death penalty expert Corinna Lain about her new book Secrets of the Killing State which exposes the untold story of lethal injection in America. It also helps us understand why states are now using the electric chair and firing squad for executions.

Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

Immigration Crisis | In Search of Sanctuary with Rich Morales May 08, 2025

Show notes

Stay tuned until the end of the episode for a special song by Paul Demer, titled "Do Not Pray to Politicians (Psalm 146)" -

In this episode, Shane Claiborne hosts Rich Morales, a seasoned attorney and faith-based organizer, to discuss the critical issue of immigration in the United States. They delve into the moral imperatives of welcoming immigrants, policies under the current administration, and the power of grassroots and legal organizing. Rich shares his personal journey and professional work, highlighting the role of faith communities in advocating for the most vulnerable. The conversation also covers practical steps for local action, resources for support, and the spiritual and moral dimensions of immigration reform.

Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

From the Myth of the Nation to the Reality of Faith: Greg Boyd Speaks May 01, 2025

Show notes

Shane talks with his friend Greg Boyd, author of The Myth of the Christian Nation. They talk about Jesus, and empires, and what it means to be people who would rather die than kill.

Get the book: https://reknew.org/book/myth-of-a-christian-nation-how-the-quest-for-political-power/
Music: Psalters "Dumpster Divers"
Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

Special RLC Podcast: Arrest the Attention of the Nation… Moral Mondays in the Nation’s Capitol May 01, 2025

Show notes

Special episode w/Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove

Read more here: https://redletterchristians.org/2025/04/29/we-must-arrest-the-attention-of-the-nation/

The Proud Boys, Racial Violence, and The Fight for Justice: Reverend William H. Lamar IV Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a special song by Common Hymnal - "Truth Waivers Not"

In this episode, Shane Claiborne talks with Reverend William H. Lamar IV about the state of the American empire and the deep principalities and powers at play. They delve into the targeted racial terror against Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church by the Proud Boys and the subsequent legal battle that resulted in the church owning the Proud Boys trademark. Reverend Lamar shares the historical context of racial violence, the role of ancestors and courage in combating systemic injustice, and the ongoing struggle against modern-day fascism and authoritarianism. They also discuss the importance of maintaining joy and fighting for a better world. Tune in for an insightful conversation on faith, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice.

Learn more: https://faithandleadership.com/authors/william-h-lamar-iv
Music: https:/https://commonhymnal.com/
Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

Dialogue, Disagreement, and Unity: A Path Forward with Tim Whitaker of the New Evangelicals Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

Stay tuned to the end of the episode for a special song "Good Good trouble" by Joel David Weir.

In this episode, Shane Claiborne hosts Tim Whitaker, founder of The New Evangelicals, for an engaging discussion on the intersection of faith, activism, and Christian nationalism. They delve into the challenges facing modern Christianity, the importance of not just promising heaven but addressing present-day 'hells,' and the need for vibrant faith that fuels social justice. The conversation covers Tim's experiences attending Turning Point USA's America Fest, the evolving landscape of The New Evangelicals, and practical steps for believers to engage in meaningful activism. Additionally, they share insights on building digital and physical communities that reflect the teachings of Jesus.

Learn more: https://www.thenewevangelicals.com/
Music: https://joeldavidweir.com/
Help sustain the work of RLC: www.redletterchristians.org/donate/
To check out what RLC is up to, please visit us www.redletterchristians.org
Follow us on Twitter: @RedLetterXians
Instagram: @RedLetterXians
Follow Shane on Instagram: @shane.claiborne
Twitter: @ShaneClaiborne

Music, Faith, and Transformation: Carolyn Arends' Journey Apr 10, 2025

Show notes

Closing Song: "All Fire" by Carolyn Arends

In this episode, Shane Claiborne engages in an enlightening conversation with accomplished singer-songwriter Carolyn Arends. They discuss her musical journey, the resonant impact of her songs, and her deep-rooted faith. The episode also delves into Carolyn's involvement with Renovaré, an organization focused on spiritual renewal, and her personal connections with influential musician Rich Mullins. Through stories and reflections, they explore the intersection of music, faith, and social justice, offering insights into maintaining integrity and transparency in Christian ministry.