Summary

In this conversation, Forrest talks with Ron Cole-Turner about his journey from traditional theological education to exploring the intersection of psychedelics and spirituality. In particular, they address themes in Ron’s new book Psychedelics and Christian Faith: Exploring an Unexpected Pathway to Healing and Spirituality. Ron emphasizes the potential of psychedelics to enhance spiritual experiences and foster a deeper connection with nature. The discussion also touches on the importance of respecting indigenous practices, the risks of cultural appropriation, and the need for the church to adapt and embrace these transformative experiences for spiritual renewal.

Takeaways

• Ron Cole-Turner reflects on his journey from traditional theology to exploring psychedelics.
• Psychedelics are substances that alter perceptions and can lead to spiritual experiences.
• Research shows a link between psychedelics and mystical experiences.
• Psychedelics can enhance feelings of connection to nature and others.
• Indigenous practices offer valuable insights into the use of psychedelics.
• Cultural appropriation is a concern when adopting indigenous practices.
• Personal stories highlight the healing potential of psychedelics.
• The book aims to encourage clergy to engage with the topic of psychedelics.
• The church must adapt to the changing spiritual landscape.
• Psychedelics may play a role in the future renewal of Christianity.

Keywords: psychedelics, spirituality, Christianity, mental health, indigenous practices, connection to nature, cultural appropriation, healing, personal stories, church renewal

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As we are all aware, so many of the issues that seem to dominate the headlines these days have to do with either racism or the climate crisis. On the face of it, these two major areas of strife and struggle don’t always seem to have a lot to do with one another, but in fact, they are fundamentally connected, sharing the very same root causes that drive them. In his book Plundered: The Tangled Roots of Racial and Environmental Injustice, David Swanson makes the case that we really can’t fully understand these two seemingly disparate issues apart from one another, and that both are inextricably linked by issues of culture, geography, history, and even theology. In this conversation, David and Forrest discuss the book, as well as his experiences living in a predominantly African American neighborhood in Chicago and how his journey has shaped his understanding of racial and environmental justice. He emphasizes the importance of community, belonging, and the interconnectedness of social and environmental issues. Swanson also explores the role of Jesus in creation and redemption, advocating for a broader understanding of hope that transcends wishful thinking and engages with the realities of the world.

Takeaways

• David Swanson emphasizes the importance of staying in one place to truly understand and connect with the community.
• The interconnectedness of racial and environmental justice is a central theme in Swanson's work.
• Swanson's experience as a white pastor in a predominantly Black neighborhood highlights the complexities of racial dynamics in church leadership.
• The concept of belonging to a place is essential for addressing systemic issues.
• Swanson argues that the church must engage with both individual transformation and systemic change.
• Hope should be rooted in reality and not just wishful thinking, according to Swanson.
• The role of Jesus in creation is pivotal to understanding redemption and hope.
• Communities of caretakers are essential for nurturing relationships with the land and each other.
• Swanson advocates for a vision of hope that is active and engaged with the present world.
• The importance of storytelling and sharing experiences within communities is highlighted as a means of fostering connection.

Keywords: David Swanson, racial justice, environmental justice, community, belonging, church leadership, hope, creation care, indigenous, social justice

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In this episode, Forrest engages with the DeJong family, who have been pivotal in the restoration of the Cheasty Greenspace in Seattle, WA. The conversation explores their journey of transforming a neglected urban forest into a thriving community space, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, ecological restoration, and the integration of indigenous knowledge. The DeJongs share their experiences of working together as a family and the impact of their efforts on the local community and environment. They also discuss the challenges posed by climate change and the hope they hold for future generations to connect with and care for nature.

Guests: The Dejong Family

• Mary Dejong
• Joel Dejong

Mentions:

• Earthkeepers Episodes 2, 40, and 78
• Cheasty Greenspace
• Green Seattle Partnership
• Duwamish Tribe
• Check out these photo albums of Cheasty Greenspace/Mt. View and Cheasty trails!

Takeaways

• The DeJong family has been involved in the Cheasty Greenspace restoration for 17 years.
• Community engagement is crucial for successful ecological restoration projects.
• Listening to the land and its history is essential in restoration efforts.
• The project has transformed a neglected space into a vibrant community hub.
• Indigenous knowledge plays a vital role in understanding and restoring ecosystems.
• Family involvement in community projects fosters deeper connections and shared values.
• Access to nature is a right that should be available to all communities.
• Climate change poses challenges, but local actions can lead to positive change.
• Building community around shared environmental goals enhances collective action.
• The transformation of the Cheasty Greenspace serves as a model for other urban restoration efforts.

Keywords: environmental restoration, trails, accessibility, recreation, ecosystem, ecology, invasive species, deforestation, settlers, native species, wildlife, nature, spirituality, spiritual ecology, community, cultural restitution, cultural restoration, stewardship, connections, relationships, climate change, Cheasty Greenspace, community restoration, ecology, environmental advocacy, urban nature, indigenous knowledge, climate change, family involvement

Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple