Fully Herself: Rev. Winnie Varghese Assumes the Pulpit at St. John the Divine in New York City

Fully Herself: Rev. Winnie Varghese Assumes the Pulpit at St. John the Divine in New York City

Author: Interfaith Alliance November 30, 2025 Duration: 1:05:29
This week on The State of Belief, host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is joined by the Very Rev. Winnie Varghese, the first female dean of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. As a queer Episcopal priest born to Indian immigrants, she brings a unique perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing faith communities today. In this episode, we dive deep into her journey, the significance of her role, and the current state of faith in America. Here are three key takeaways that resonated with me: The Power of Belonging: Rev. Winnie emphasizes the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels they belong. The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is not just a historic building; it serves as a beacon of hope and inclusivity for people from all walks of life. Integrating Identity and Faith: One of the most profound moments in the conversation is when Rev. Winnie shares her experience of realizing her call to the priesthood and embracing her identity as a queer woman. She highlights that these aspects of her life are not separate but are deeply intertwined. This integration of identity and faith is crucial for authentic ministry and serves as an inspiration for others navigating similar journeys. Responding to Current Challenges: In light of the rising tide of White Christian nationalism, Rev. Winnie calls for a proactive approach to ministry that emphasizes advocacy and community-building. She discusses the importance of addressing social justice issues through action and engagement, reminding us that faith must be lived out in tangible ways. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that challenges us to rethink our roles in our communities and the broader society. More About the Very Rev. Winnie Varghese: Rev. Winnie is the first female dean of the largest cathedral in the United States, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in New York City. A graduate of Union Theological Seminary, Rev. Varghese has held pastoral positions in Atlanta, Los Angeles, and at several other New York congregations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosted by Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush, The State Of Belief is a weekly conversation that lives at the intersection of faith and public life, presented by the Interfaith Alliance. Each episode brings together a thoughtful and often surprising mix of voices-from religious leaders and activists to artists and civic strategists-for discussions that are as engaging and humorous as they are deeply meaningful. These dialogues move beyond abstract theory, offering a grounded look at how spiritual wisdom informs practical action and political engagement in real time. Tuning in, you’ll hear a potent blend of personal stories, strategic insight, and hopeful analysis from people working on the front lines of communities nationwide. The podcast operates from a simple but vital premise, captured in its tagline: “Where Religion and Democracy Meet.” It’s a space designed not for debate, but for exploration, examining how diverse beliefs shape our collective pursuit of justice and democracy. If you’re looking for a source that takes the pulse of faith in America with intelligence, warmth, and a sense of urgency, this is the series for you.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 50

The State Of Belief
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