Bonus. Religion in the Public Sphere, a Christian View (Zachary Davis)

Bonus. Religion in the Public Sphere, a Christian View (Zachary Davis)

Author: Meli Solomon, the Talking with God Project June 29, 2023 Duration: 30:07

Episode 43.
Zachary Davis, a lifelong member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (or Mormons), has been deeply involved in producing podcasts and other media about religion. In this Bonus episode, we discuss the role of religion in the public sphere. He talks about the importance of bringing your whole self into the community, and makes the distinction between scholarly work and devotional practice. Part of his own public expression of his faith is through the various podcasts and publications he produces and manages, including the Ministry of Ideas podcast and Faith Matters magazine.


Highlights:
·       Zach’s first HarvardX work with professors at Harvard Divinity School led to years of ‘swimming in religion’ and thinking more deeply about the role of faith. 

·       The Ministry of Ideas podcast and Faith Matters magazine are both vehicles for discussing religion in the public sphere.

·       The separation of church and state really means not establishing a state religion.

·       Scholarship on religion and religious devotional practice are two different things, and not at odds. 

·       The US is a unique country, given the diversity of religions. Living together peaceably and respectfully is important.  

·       Attending services and reading the holy scriptures of other religions are ways we can each learn about other paths.



Social Media links for Zachary: 
Website – https://www.zacharystevendavis.com/about
Ministry of Ideas podcast – https://www.ministryofideas.org/about/
Faith Matters – https://faithmatters.org/about/
Wayfare Magazine –http://wayfaremagazine.org/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/zacharysdavis
Note: The Ministry of Ideas podcast and Wayfare magazine are both vehicles for discussing religion in the public sphere.


Social Media links for Méli:
Talking with God Project – https://www.talkingwithgodproject.org
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisolomon/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100066435622271

Transcript:    https://www.buzzsprout.com/1851013/episodes/13129045-bonus-religion-in-the-public-sphere-with-zachary-davis


Follow the podcast!
The Living Our Beliefs podcast offers a place to learn about other religions and faith practices. When you hear about how observant Christians, Jews and Muslims live their faith, new ideas and questions arise:  Is your way similar or different?  Is there an idea or practice that you want to explore?  Understanding how other people live opens your mind and heart to new people you meet. 


Comments?  Email  Méli – info@talkingwithgodproject.org

The Living Our Beliefs podcast is part of the Talking with God Project


Hosted by Meli Solomon of the Talking with God Project, Living Our Beliefs: Exploring Faith & Religion in Daily Life is a conversation about the practical realities of spiritual life. This podcast moves beyond abstract theology to examine how ancient traditions from Judaism, Islam, and other spiritual paths actually inform our modern routines, decisions, and relationships. Each episode delves into the nuanced spaces where belief meets action, exploring the challenges and rewards of aligning deeply held values with everyday behavior. You'll hear from a variety of voices discussing how they navigate this integration, whether through ritual, ethical choices, or community engagement. The discussions are grounded in real-life experience, focusing on the tangible ways faith provides meaning, fosters connection, and shapes identity in a contemporary context. Rather than offering simple answers, this series invites reflection on the ongoing, personal work of weaving spiritual principles into the fabric of daily existence. It’s for anyone curious about how others live out their convictions and seeking inspiration for their own journey toward a more coherent and purposeful life, all through thoughtful, accessible dialogue.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 101

Living Our Beliefs: Exploring Faith & Religion in Daily Life
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