The Temple Forum

This January, we said a heartbreaking goodbye to a giant of our community, Edith Renfrow Smith, who passed away at the age of 111. To honor her incredible legacy, the Temple Forum is releasing a very special conversation. Last summer, shortly after Edith’s 111th birthday, we sat down with womanist sociologist Dr. Tamara Beauboeuf-Lafontant (“Dr. B”) to discuss Edith’s story—a narrative that spans the very arc of American history. While this recording was held for some time, we believe there is no better moment than now to share these insights into her life, her family’s "willful matriline," and her groundbreaking journey as the first Black graduate of Grinnell College. Join us as Dr. B helps us reflect on the "abundant life" Edith led and the history she leaves behind for all of us at the Chicago Temple and beyond.   * Tamara Beauboeuf-Lafontant (known as “Dr. B” on campus) is a womanist sociologist.  She came to Grinnell in fall 2019 and teaches the three core courses (Intro, Theory and Methods, and Senior Seminar) as well as the electives Growing up Girl, Feminist Educations, and Beyond the Little Mermaid: Race, Gender, and the Global Waters. A qualitative researcher, she focuses on Black women’s contemporary and historical acts of self-definition.  Her published work has examined Black women’s pedagogy as a form of “politicized mothering,” the embodied costs of being a strong Black woman, and the liberal arts vision of “living abundantly” championed by Lucy Diggs Slowe, the first trained African American student affairs professional.  Increasingly interested in higher education histories and narratives of belonging, she is at work on a book manuscript tentatively titled, You may call me Eva P.: Portraits of a willful Black matriline, 1837-1937.   #EdithRenfrowSmith #InMemoriam #ChicagoTemple #BlackHistory #GrinnellCollege #TempleForum

This week, we are honored to welcome Steven Thrasher — journalist, professor of journalism at Northwestern University, former writer for Saturday Night Live, and author of the powerful book The Viral Underclass. Steven shares his journey as a Black gay man and a deeply rooted Christian, reflecting on identity, faith, and storytelling. His voice challenges us, inspires us, and opens new windows into how God’s love is alive in the midst of complex realities. Tune in to this vibrant conversation and hear how Steven lives out his vocation as a truth-teller, scholar, and disciple.   (Photo credit: CS Muncy)   #TempleForumPodcast #StevenThrasher #ChicagoTemple #FaithAndJustice #BlackGayChristian #TheViralUnderclass #NorthwesternUniversity #ChristianVoices #StorytellingAndFaith

🎙️ New Temple Forum Podcast Episode! 🎙️ We’re excited to share our latest episode featuring Rev. Chris Walters, President & CEO of the Midwest Methodist Foundation, as we explore the connection between faith, generosity, and financial stewardship in today’s church. Rev. Walters—an ordained elder in the United Methodist Church—leads a foundation that manages over $100 million in assets, supporting more than 120 local churches and nonprofits across the Midwest. 🌟 Special shout-out! During the interview, Rev. Walters warmly celebrates Lyn Ridgeway, a member of Chicago Temple, as an inspiring example of faithful generosity. We’re so proud to have Lyn in our community! 🎧 Don’t miss this thoughtful conversation on how generosity transforms churches and lives. #TempleForum #MidwestMethodistFoundation #FaithAndFinance #UMC #Stewardship #Generosity #ChicagoTemple #LynRidgeway #ChurchLeadership

Exciting new episode of the Temple Forum Podcast at the Chicago Temple! We had the honor of speaking with Dr. Javier Viera from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary. In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Viera shared insights on the evolving landscape of higher education, the incredible growth in Garrett’s student body, and his powerful advocacy for immigrants—embracing the concept of an "Immigrant God" in theology. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion. Tune in now and hear how faith and education intersect to inspire justice and transformation. 💡✨ #HigherEd #ImmigrantGod #Theology #FaithAndJustice #GarrettSeminary

Dr. John P. Burgess is the James Henry Snowden Professor of Systematic Theology at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. An ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), he has served in various congregations and theological roles. His research focuses on Eastern Orthodoxy, particularly in Russia, and he has authored several books, including Holy Rus': The Rebirth of Orthodoxy in the New Russia. A respected scholar and teacher, Dr. Burgess continues to explore the intersection of theology, church, and culture. Dr. John Burgess’s Temple Forum interview took place on the same day Ukrainian President Zelensky visited the White House. Tune in as he explores how religion has shaped the war between Russia and Ukraine. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! 🎙️ #TempleForum #ChicagoTemple #RussiaUkraine #FaithAndConflict

We are thrilled to share some exciting news! Rev. Jane Eesley, a dedicated missionary who has been serving in Israel, will be joining First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple as our new senior pastor this July! Just last month, we had the privilege of interviewing Rev. Eesley about her experiences in ministry abroad. Since then, our journey together has taken a new and unexpected turn, and we are overjoyed to welcome her into our church family.   Also, we apologize for the uneven quality of the interviews due to unreliable electricity and internet in Israel.   #ChicagoTemple #WelcomeRevEesley #NewBeginnings #FaithInAction

It is our pleasure to share that we recently had the opportunity to interview Rev. Young-Mee Park, the new Interim Senior Pastor at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple, located in 77 W. Washington St. Chicago. In our conversation, she shared her vision for our church, her hopes for this season of ministry, and her deep commitment to guiding us forward with faith and care. Stay tuned! #TempleChurchChicago #FaithAndLeadership #NewSeason"

Welcome to the Temple Forum Podcast! Today, we have the privilege of speaking with a truly remarkable guest, David Worthington, the Global Ambassador of Methodist Heritage Sites for The United Methodist Church. David plays a vital role in preserving and promoting the rich legacy of Methodist heritage around the globe. With a deep passion for history and faith, he works tirelessly to ensure that the stories, sites, and significance of Methodism are not only remembered but also celebrated. From the rolling hills of the United Kingdom, where Methodism was born, to historic sites across the United States and beyond, David’s work bridges continents and generations, connecting people to the spiritual roots of the Methodist movement. Join us as we explore his fascinating journey, the importance of preserving heritage, and the global impact of Methodist history today!   To learn more about David and his work, visit his website.  https://gcah.org/staff/david-worthington/

Welcome to this special episode of the Temple Forum podcast! Today, we are honored to celebrate the remarkable ministry of Rev. Dr. Myron McCoy, who has faithfully served as Senior Pastor at the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple for the past 10 years. During his time at the Chicago Temple, Rev. Dr. McCoy has been a steady, compassionate leader, shepherding our congregation with grace, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to justice and inclusion. Under his guidance, the church has not only flourished spiritually but has also deepened its outreach within the city and beyond. As he prepares for retirement, we reflect on his legacy, his many contributions to our faith community, and the lasting impact he has had on countless lives. In this episode, we will hear from Rev. Dr. McCoy about his journey, the challenges and joys of ministry, and his hopes for the future of the Chicago Temple. Join us as we celebrate the ministry and service of Rev. Dr. Myron McCoy, a leader whose influence will continue to resonate in the life of this church for years to come.

“What does it mean to remember God?” Dr. Oh asks us. Join us as we explore the intriguing intersection of neuroscience and Wesleyan theology! Kwang-Jin Oh, a PhD graduate in Theology and Ethics at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, shares his insights. His research delves into neuroscience and theology, popular culture, and virtue ethics.

The Chicago Temple's Hope's Table ministry has been providing crucial services to the homeless in downtown Chicago. Mabel, a dedicated member of the FUMC at the Chicago Temple, has led this initiative every Saturday for over 15 years. The ministry offers hot meals, clothing, legal support, and medical care through partnerships with DePaul University and Heartland Alliance. Volunteers play a vital role, with about 25 on site each week. For more information or to get involved, visit their website. #ChicagoTemple #HomelessMinistry #HousingJustice #Inspiration   Hope's Table Chicago:https://www.chicagotemple.org/programs/homelessministry/

Did you know that this year marks the 100th anniversary of Chicago's Temple Building? Listen to the Temple Forum podcast about the history and fun facts of the Chicago Temple Building in honor of its 100th anniversary. David Foster was interviewed by Jann Ingmire!

Christian is an attorney, but now works for the human rights of immigrants through UMC agencies UMCOR and GBGM(Global Ministries). Listen to Cristian talk about the United Methodist Church's commitment to immigrants and how you can help immigrants survive their first winter in Chicago. If you would like to support Cristian's ministry or get in touch with him, you can find that information by visiting his webpage below. https://umcmission.org/missionary-bio/3022324/

Meet Dan Schwerin, the new bishop of the Northern Illinois Conference of The United Methodist Church! Bishop Schwerin is a poetry-loving Wisconsin native who has been bishop of the Northern Illinois Conference, home conference to the Chicago Temple, since January of 2023. You'll hear Bishop Dan's answers to serious theological questions like war and evil in this episode of the Temple Forum. See his bio: https://www.unitedmethodistbishops.org/person-detail/4172906

Want to learn about the history of Chicago's up-and-coming neighborhood, the WestLoop? Join the Temple Forum for a discussion of Connie Fairbanks' book Chicago's WestLoop: Then and Now, the result of extensive and detailed research over five years. Connie is also a member of the FUMC at the Chicago Temple! Check out her website, too. https://www.conniefairbanks.com/ This podcast interview was conducted by Jann Ingmire. 

Temple Forum had an interview with Sulkiro Song (She/they), Ha:n UMC's worship director, to learn more about Ha:n, a Korean-American congregation, and Song's understanding of a queer God. Sulkiro majored in Biblical Studies at Union Theological Seminary for their master's degree, firmly believing that God is queer. It is also the first interview Sam did with Temple Forum. Welcome Sam and Sulkiro! HA:N UMC website:https://www.han-umc.org  

C25/7 Father's Arms Ministry is a non-profit located at 1543 W Howard St, Chicago, IL. They provide community outreach programs including a monthly food pantry for locals and newly bussed immigrants, an after school program for about 60 kids from kindergartner to high school students, and a job development program. James and Natalie are a married couple and co-founders of the organization. Check out their website! https://c247fam.org/    

Happy Pride! This month we interviewed the Rev. M Jade Kaiser(they/them), co-founder and co-director of EnFleshed and deacon in the United Methodist Church.   Visit enfleshed website: https://enfleshed.com/  

In celebration of Asian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, the Temple Forum invited Dr. Donghyun Jeong for an interview.In addition to serving as Assistant Professor of New Testament Interpretation at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, Dr. Jeong is also Director of the Center for Asian/Asian American Ministry. Here is what he says about Asian bigotry during the pandemic, Asian heritage, solidarity with the world, the church, and the community.

During the COVID pandemic, we heard about the healthcare heroes in our hospitals. These are the doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who are on the front lines taking care of patients. But…there are other professionals providing comfort and care in hospitals every day who may not receive as much attention – Hospital Chaplains. Let us hear from Chaplain Dirk about his calling as a chaplain. He will discuss how his work as a chaplain helps those who are facing a difficult moment in their life and provides spiritual care for them.

Who knew that there would be a faith-based initiative in the Chicago Public Schools system?   This installment of the Temple Forum features Alan Conley, the Director of Faith-Based Initiatives for CPS. Listen to his work for CPS!

"What Do We Do When Nobody is Listening? Leading the Church in a Polarized Society" is the title of a new book by Dr. Robin W. Lovin. This timely book looks at how the church can be part of the solution, rather than part of the problem, in our very divided society.     According to Dr. Lovin, an ordained minister in the United Methodist Church and a leading global scholar in Christian ethics, we need to listen to the Word, to the world, and to those who are not heard. Find out how you can be a better listener in this culture of chatter by listening to this conversation!   

Journalist and attorney Lester Munson has covered some of the biggest stories and scandals in the sports world during the course of his long career at Sports Illustrated, ESPN, and “The Sportswriters” TV show. Find out how he jumped from a struggling law career to becoming a successful sports journalist. Munson also has varied interests beyond the sports world, including a connection with the Czech community in the Chicago area, the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, and the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple. Be sure to listen to this delightful conversation with a long-suffering Cubs fan.

The Council of Religious Leaders of Metropolitan Chicago is an organization of leaders from diverse faith traditions. The annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Observance is one of the most high-profile events the organization coordinates every year with representatives of many faith traditions from A (American Baptist) to Z (Zoroastrian). The Executive Director of the Council, Nisan Chavkin, says this group also takes action as people of faith and a community of conscience on public issues that advance the common good. Hear what he has to say about current social justice issues, including speaking out about religious prejudice, discrimination and persecution in these times.   CRLMC website: https://www.crlmc.org/

The U.S. Supreme Court decision to overturn Roe vs. Wade in June 2022 generated intense responses from pro- and anti-choice proponents. The landmark decision took away the federal right to an abortion that had been in place for nearly 50 years. Rev. Camille Henderson-Edwards is the Director for Economic, Health and Gender Justice at the General Board of Church and Society for the United Methodist Church. She explains how the church strives to nurture all women and children according to the UMC Social Principles and what efforts are underway to improve access to and equity in healthcare. Listen to this conversation to find out more about where the UMC stands on these important issues.

Rev. Gerald Tedcastle, Prince Philip, and Queen Elizabeth at the Wesley Chapel in 1978. Dr. Schweiker is in the back wearing a clerical collar with a mustache!   When the Queen and Prince Philip attended the rededication of Wesley's Chapel, London in 1978, University of Chicago Divinity School Professor William Schweiker was there! In this episode of the Temple Forum, Professor Schweiker recalls his time as seminary intern at Wesley's Chapel when the Queen came to visit, the current criticism of the monarchy, and why the separation of church and state is still an important ideal for our U.S. democracy. Listen to this discussion with the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple's Theologian-in-Residence, Professor William Schweiker.   For more information about Wesley's Chapel and the history of Methodism: https://www.wesleysheritage.org.uk/

What steps are being taken to improve the relationship between the Chicago Police Department and the citizens they are called to serve and protect? CPD Community Policing Deputy Director Michael Milstein talks about the efforts underway in the city and the daily challenges that are faced to rebuild trust. This episode of the Temple Forum discusses the current environment and what we can do to hold police accountable and to make Chicago a safer place to live.  

Is Religion Part of the Problem or Part of the Solution in the Red/Blue Divide? Chicago Temple Theologian-in-Residence William Schweiker from the University of Chicago Divinity School believes there is a pervasiveness of social breakdown in our society. In this episode of The Temple Forum, he talks about religion’s role in the red/blue divide in this country. But he is also hopeful that we can come together for a common good in our diverse society.   Listen to his insights and read his Sightings article on the subject: https://divinity.uchicago.edu/sightings/articles/social-dissolution-lost-threads-and-forgotten-dogmas

Transformational Ministry: Meet the Chief of Chaplaincy Services for the Federal Bureau of Prisons   Imagine being the person who is responsible for guiding the religious accommodations for inmates across faith lines in the 122 federal prisons nationwide. That’s what Rev. Heidi Kugler does as Chief of Chaplaincy Services for the Federal Bureau of Prisons. There are more than 2 million people in our nation’s prisons and jails. Chaplain Kugler encourages all of us to become better educated about the correctional system and to find ways to help inmates and those who are reentering society after serving their time. Learn more at: www.bop.gov or email: [email protected].    

Dr. Badia Ahad-Legardy is Author, Professor, and Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs at Loyola University Chicago. The First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple invited her in February, 2002 for Black History Month and heard about her most recent book, "Afro-Nostalgia: Feeling Good in Contemporary Black Culture." This episode is a recording of the interview. There might be disruptive sounds (computer notification sounds or other noises) during the interview. 

Audra Wilson is the President and CEO of the Shriver Center on Poverty Law. She has an impressive career as a champion for racial and economic justice issues. This national center is named for its founder, Sargent Shriver, with a mission to advance laws and policies that secure justice to improve the lives and opportunities of people living in poverty. She offers ways that we all can get involved for a nation free from poverty with justice, equality and opportunity for all. Learn more at: www.povertylaw.org

Ana is the executive director of One Earth Collective. In this episode, Ana talks about who One Earth Collective is and what they do to advocate the urgency of our action for climate change, including One Earth Film Festival that they offer annually -both online and in-person in Chicago.   Please visit One Earth Collective website: https://oneearthcollective.org One Earth Film Fest website: https://www.oneearthfilmfest.org  

Please visit their website: https://parliamentofreligions.org  

Dwight H. Judy, Professor Emeritus of Spiritual Formation, at Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, welcomes you. Our study programs include Professional Certification in Spiritual Formation through the United Methodist General Board of Higher Education and Ministry. Spiritual formation and spiritual direction studies may be pursued in Doctor of Ministry, master’s degrees, and non-degree certification. Dr. Judy talks about Christian spirituality and meditation with our host, Liz Dunn in this episode. Visit his website at dwightjudy.com

Dawn Araujo-Hawkins is the News Editor for the Christian Century magazine, which is an ecumenical publication based in Chicago, committed to "Thinking Critically and Living Faithfully" in our time. If you want to know more about Dawn, visit https://dawnaraujohawkins.com  

Michelle is the Development Director at Deborah's place that has been for more than 35 years open doors for opportunities for women who are homeless in Chicago by offering affordable housing and services. 

Rev. Pat Jackson is co-executive director of Interwoven Congregations, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting racial justice and healing through faith communities.  To know more about Interwoven Congregations, visit http://www.interwovencongregations.org

Foster J. Pinkney is an organizer and writer pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Ethics at the University of Chicago Divinity School. Foster is originally from Columbus, Ohio, and earned his Master's degree in Social Ethics from Union Theological Seminary in New York City. While in New York, he was a Poverty Scholar Program Fellow at Kairos: The Center for Religions, Rights and Social Justice.  Check this out: https://humanrights.uchicago.edu/people/foster-j-pinkney

Foster J. Pinkney is an organizer and writer pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Ethics at the University of Chicago Divinity School. Foster is originally from Columbus, Ohio, and earned his Master's degree in Social Ethics from Union Theological Seminary in New York City. While in New York, he was a Poverty Scholar Program Fellow at Kairos: The Center for Religions, Rights and Social Justice.  Check this out: https://humanrights.uchicago.edu/people/foster-j-pinkney

We will start on Sep 12, 2021. Join us by tuning in here or at chicagotemple.org.