Inter-mission with Rev. John Borthwick
Podcast Ministry Forum Podcast Ministry Forum

Inter-mission with Rev. John Borthwick

Rev. John Borthwick chats with Rev. Dr. Kristine O'Brien, the Executive Director of Crieff Hills Retreat Centre. Kristine reflects on her shift from congregational ministry to leading Crieff Hills, stressing how vital Sabbath rest and breaks (or "intermissions") are for avoiding burnout and sparking creativity in ministry. She talks about how taking intentional time for rest can refresh ministry leaders, helping them serve more effectively. Kristine also shares how Crieff Hills has evolved, now welcoming a variety of groups—from nonprofits to different faith traditions. The centre focuses on hospitality, spiritual renewal, and even innovative projects like ecological farming. This discussion highlights the importance of rest, creativity, and adaptability for healthy and thriving ministry.

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Retreating with Rev. Dr. Kristine O’Brien
Podcast Ministry Forum Podcast Ministry Forum

Retreating with Rev. Dr. Kristine O’Brien

Rev. John Borthwick chats with Rev. Dr. Kristine O'Brien, the Executive Director of Crieff Hills Retreat Centre. Kristine reflects on her shift from congregational ministry to leading Crieff Hills, stressing how vital Sabbath rest and breaks (or "intermissions") are for avoiding burnout and sparking creativity in ministry. She talks about how taking intentional time for rest can refresh ministry leaders, helping them serve more effectively. Kristine also shares how Crieff Hills has evolved, now welcoming a variety of groups—from nonprofits to different faith traditions. The centre focuses on hospitality, spiritual renewal, and even innovative projects like ecological farming. This discussion highlights the importance of rest, creativity, and adaptability for healthy and thriving ministry.

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Unsettling Worship, A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis
Podcast Ministry Forum Podcast Ministry Forum

Unsettling Worship, A Conversation with Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis

In this episode, we rebroadcast parts of a book launch for the Rev. Dr. Sarah Travis’ book, Unsettling Worship, Reforming Liturgy for Right Relations with Indigenous Communities. The conversation centers on how Christian worship can address the historical and ongoing colonial injustices faced by Indigenous peoples. Dr. Travis highlights how worship can both comfort and challenge congregants, fostering truth-telling and reconciliation.

She shares the inspiration for her book, emphasizing the importance of addressing uncomfortable truths about settler-Indigenous relations within worship settings. The conversation touches on how liturgy can be a space for healing and prophetic action, engaging with the realities of colonialism, and offering a pathway toward hope and justice.

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When God Became White
Podcast Ministry Forum Podcast Ministry Forum

When God Became White

John Borthwick chats with Knox College alumna Rev. Dr. Grace Ji-Sun Kim. Grace shares her journey from studying theology to becoming an accomplished author, speaker, and advocate. She reflects on what it’s like to navigate academia as an Asian-American woman and why she’s passionate about amplifying marginalized voices. Grace discusses topics in her books Invisible and When God Became White, explaining how they tackle issues of race, gender, and systemic injustices within the church and society. With honesty and humour, Grace also talks about balancing writing and family life, and how she never imagined she’d end up authoring over 20 books! This episode is a look at faith, identity, and the power of storytelling in creating change.

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