S1E12: Pastor Drew Sams: Balancing Tradition and Innovation in Faith

📺 Watch & Subscribe on YouTubeIn this episode of I’ll Meet You There, our host, Paige Nolan engages in a heartfelt conversation with Drew Sams, senior pastor at Bel Air Presbyterian Church in Los Angeles. Drew shares his journey of faith, exploring how curiosity and openness have shaped his spiritual path and leadership. He discusses the evolving role of faith in modern life, emphasizing a lived-out faith that embraces doubt and mystery. Drew also reflects on the intersection of science and religion, advocating for a broader understanding of scripture. This episode delves into the importance of remembering one's faith and the power of community in nurturing spiritual growth. Drew's insights offer a refreshing perspective on faith as a dynamic, inclusive journey, encouraging listeners to explore their beliefs with courage and curiosity.What We Explored This Episode05:32 Childhood and Early Messages of Faith11:39 Centered Set vs. Bounded Set17:49 Teaching and Living Faith23:29 Science and Faith29:59 Expanding Understanding of Scripture36:48 Journey to Becoming a Pastor42:15 Maintaining Personal Faith47:19 Faith and Doubt54:42 The Power of RememberingMemorable Quotes"Once I got into that mindset, I think the work became a lot less stressful because I was doing it with more ease."‘Human-made religion is spelled D-O. Faith in God is spelled D-O-N-E. It's done. There's nothing for you to do.’"When you study the teachings of Jesus, it is so different, sadly, than the misguided teaching of some of Christians today or what the perception is of what a Christian should be like."Resources MentionedVisit Drew’s Church at Bel Air Church Los Angeles - belair.orgRichard Rohr, The Center for Action and Contemplation - cac.orgConnect with [GUEST]Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pastordrewsams/Listen to Drew’s Sermons: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bel-air-church/id561726491Connect with PaigeWebsite - https://paigenolan.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/paigenolanwriteFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/paigenolanwriterLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paige-nolan-0932751/🎙️Music by Boyd McDonnellCover art photography by Innis CaseyPodcast production & marketing by North Node Podcast Network