In the Sandbox, Season 2:Episode 3 with Emanuel Cleaver

Adaptive Leadership and Evolving Church with Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III In this episode of 'In the Sandbox,' hosts Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups sit down with Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III, the senior pastor of St. James United Methodist Church in Kansas City. Dr. Cleaver discusses the challenges and strategies of adaptive leadership in the modern socio-political landscape, the decline in church attendance, and the importance of evolving worship practices. He emphasizes the need for evaluating and changing traditional practices, including Sunday school, to meet current needs. Dr. Cleaver also touches on the role of the church in social activism and community involvement, particularly in addressing local injustices. He shares his personal practices for maintaining peace and balance, including a strict observance of the Sabbath and participation in a supportive pastoral group. The episode concludes with a light-hearted lightning round and a prayer for continued guidance and support for Dr. Cleaver's mission. 00:00 Introduction to the Sandbox Podcast 00:40 Meet Dr. Emanuel Cleaver III 01:26 Challenges of Modern Church Leadership 03:30 Adapting Church Practices for the Future 06:05 The Role of Sunday School in Modern Times 10:00 Evolving Church Models and Community Engagement 13:50 Hybrid Worship and Online Community 17:41 Social Activism and Community Needs 20:53 Future Challenges and Adaptive Leadership 24:15 Police Department Control in Kansas City 26:34 Reflecting on Historical Practices 27:11 Reimagining Church Leadership 28:09 Unlearning Traditional Christianity 29:42 The Role of Belief and Action in Faith 33:45 Maintaining Peace and Support as a Pastor 35:39 The Importance of Sabbath 39:00 Fun and Lighthearted Questions 43:39 Closing Thoughts and Prayer Find Dr. Emanuel Cleaver: Website: https://www.ecleaver3.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PastorECIII Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cleaveriii/ X: https://x.com/drec3 About Hub4Innovation: The Hub4Innovation is a place where leaders are given permission to experiment, innovate, and take bold steps towards the future of the church. We encourage leaders to break through barriers, make risky moves, and play with the question, “What if?” Join Matt Rawle and Rachel Billups, thought leaders and spiritual movers, on the “In the Sandbox” podcast, where they are interviewing leaders of the faith, and exploring bold and innovative new ways to lead and make big impact on our communities. Find us on: Instagram: @hub4innovation Website: hub4innovation.org