Bishop Naomi invites her listeners to accompany her on a Lenten journey of meditation, fasting (Separating), and alms giving (Philanthropy).

This episode is part of the Oral History Project sponsored by the Mar Thoma Orthodox Church, celebrating the life of its late Bishop Veron Ashe. Deaconess Ruth was a member of the community in Fresno, CA and responsible for teaching formation to new members (Catechumen). She and Bishop Cheryl discuss some of the lessons they learned as his students.

Trailer: The conversation continues between Amma Naomi and Deaconess Ruth on diversity & culture in the early church, to help acknowledge biases that have become a part of theolog. Beliefs of racial or gender inferiority and/or superiority in society are reflective of the Euro/American Christian model which conflicts with Christ’s teachings of ‘Love your neighbor’ .

Bishop Naomi & Deaconess Ruth share their thoughts on culture & Christianity in the early church years. The discussion was prompted by a televangelist’s sermon rebuking the Black church for supporting a particular candidate during this 2024 election (excerpt links referenced below). As American’s of African descent, female clergy, and businesswomen, the message impacted them on many levels. The key question, did words spoken reflect Christ?

Discussion related links:

A Thoughtful response: https://youtu.be/kcnUz9sNGhc

The sermon excerpt: https://www.facebook.com/LarryReidLive/videos/1521626651862132/?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V&mibextid=rnUfBY&fs=e&s=TIeQ9V

ATKW is excited to start season five with a conversation about culture and Christianity. Bishop Naomi speaks with Deaconess Ruth Lawson about current events and how they impact those who are following the Way of Christ.