Shoulder to Shoulder: Embracing Tensions: A pastor's journey to acceptance and diversity with guest with Bill W
This week on Unpacked we chat with guest Bill White, Co-Pastor at City Church in Long Beach. Bill shares his extraordinary journey from a conservative evangelical pastor to a place of acceptance and theological diversity. Join us for an authentic and thought-provoking conversation that delves into the heart of embracing differences and holding space for diverse perspectives.
Bill spent 25 years fully immersed in the evangelical world, serving as a missionary, parachurch staff, and pastor. Life took an unexpected turn when his two children bravely identified as gay, prompting him to shift his perspective towards a more post-evangelical path. Bill opens up about his profound journey of transformation, leading his church towards becoming a theologically diverse haven where differences are not only accepted but valued. During this episode, we explore the concept of growth in tensions, learning to hold both seemingly conflicting ideas in our hearts and minds. Bill shares the significance of this process and the impact it had on his relationship with his son, his congregation, and the wider LGBTQ+ community.
The producers and co-creators of the Unpacked Podcast present a special series 10-part series Shoulder to Shoulder. Shoulder to Shoulder is co-hosted by Evan Dewald, Tara Linsley and Kevin Castanherio unpacking the relationship between the church and the LGTBQ+ community with ex-pastors, inclusive churches, thought leaders, and LGBTQ+ members. Episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays.
The goal is not to change your mind, but we are here to challenge that we can disagree and still love. We can disagree and include. We can disagree, stand up for the marginalized, and take responsibility for harm. And there is room for all in this space as we come together.
Shoulder to Shoulder is brought to you by Kevin Castanheiro and Joel Fortier in partnership with Unpacked Podcast.
LINKS
-Episode 1 Introduction Series
-Episode 2 Joel Hubbard
-Episode 3 Joel Fortier
-Episode 4 Pastor Judy Howard Peterson
-Episode 5 Coming out U
-Episode 6 Brian Nietzel
-Episode 7 Diane Morton
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*music by Bensound