Healing from Perfectionism: Ed Kilbourne and Philip Amerson on Changing Church Culture

In this heartfelt episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson sits down with longtime friend and folk musician Ed Kilbourne—who reflects on his journey from a missionary kid to a highly respected figure in progressive Christian circles. Together, they offer candid insights on leaving behind rigid church traditions, the evolution of faith, and the unexpected joys of serving others with authenticity.Three Key Takeaways:The Complex Journey Away from Evangelicalism Both Philip Amerson and Ed Kilbourne share personal stories of growing up in deeply religious environments, only to find themselves at odds with the evolving spirit of evangelicalism. Philip Amerson notes the increasing authoritarianism and mean-spiritedness he sees today, contrasting it with earlier years that, while exclusionary, seemed less cruel. Ed Kilbourne is open about stepping away from the church for similar reasons, preferring to be called a "believer" but not necessarily a "Christian" by today's standards. The pain of leaving a spiritual home is explored honestly, highlighting the real sense of loss that accompanies such a transition.The Power of Storytelling and Progressive TheologyEd Kilbourne discovered that his true calling lay not in performing for teenagers or leading worship, but in storytelling for senior adults. He describes how sharing honest, nuanced stories in adult vacation Bible schools became a safe space for exploring progressive theology—far more effective than traditional sermons. By embedding challenging ideas within engaging anecdotes, Ed Kilbourne is able to foster meaningful reflection and connection without confrontation.Embracing Authenticity and New Beginnings The episode also shines a light on the importance of authenticity and humility in spiritual leadership. Ed Kilbourne speaks with admiration—and a touch of amusement—about how his wife Kathleen now outshines him at their adult vacation Bible schools with her intimate, unscripted approach. The conversation closes with Ed Kilbourne introducing the song he hopes will be played at his funeral, poignantly reminding listeners that, ultimately, it’s about relationships, kindness, and living truthfully.Listen in for an honest and often humorous exploration of faith, change, and finding your purpose later in life. And if you’re intrigued by the idea of adult vacation church school, stay tuned for details on how to get involved—and maybe even meet Kathleen!https://edkilbourne.com/