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Liminal Living

Liminal Living

By: Dr. Thomas J Rundel
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Welcome to the Liminal Living Podcast, where we dive deep into the realm of liminal spaces—those transitional phases where uncertainty is our companion. I'm your host and curator of conversations, Dr. Tom Rundel, and it's my pleasure to serve as your guide through these uncharted territories. With a doctoral background in spirituality and leadership from Portland Seminary, my research has centered on the spirituality found in the narratives of liminality in the Bible, but I have expanded my research to include other faith traditions and cognitive science. Since our launch in 2023, we've been dedicated to exploring the nuances of dark nights and deconstructions, but our journey expanded to include insights from a diverse array of modern-day thinkers and artists. Through a blend of stories, practices, and perspectives, we provide valuable guidance for fellow travelers navigating their own liminal spaces. So, join us as we embark on this journey and embrace the uncertainty in order to uncover the hidden wisdom that lies within the liminal spaces of life.All rights reserved Christianity Philosophy Social Sciences Spirituality
Episodes
  • 124a: Fault and Responsibility: Song Only
    Jun 24 2025

    To listen to the full episode and hear the commentary around this song, listen to episode 124.

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living

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    6 mins
  • 123: Keith Giles: Erasing Mary from the Text
    Jun 18 2025

    takeaways

    • Keith Giles has written multiple books, including a series on quantum gospels.
    • The Gospel of Mary is a fragmentary text with significant insights.
    • Mary Magdalene is likely the central figure in the Gospel of Mary.
    • The text emphasizes the idea of Christ within all individuals.
    • There were multiple early Christian communities with differing beliefs.
    • The Gospel of Mary aligns with the egalitarian views of the Valentinians.
    • The text suggests a direct connection to God without mediators.
    • The concept of the 'child of humanity' is central to the Gospel's message.
    • The Gospel of Mary challenges traditional patriarchal views of God.
    • Understanding the Gospel of Mary could transform modern Christianity. Evangelicalism often defines itself by its enemies.
    • The pendulum of faith can swing too far towards isolation.
    • Community is essential for spiritual growth and understanding.
    • The Gospel of Mary presents radical ideas about sin and forgiveness.
    • The emphasis on sin can be detrimental to spiritual health.
    • Morality should stem from love and connection to others.
    • Political events can challenge our spiritual beliefs.
    • Mary Magdalene's role has been historically marginalized.
    • The Gospel of Mary lacks references from early church writers.
    • The Quantum Gospel of Mary combines multiple texts for deeper insights.

    Links:

    Book: https://tinyurl.com/ck8d2et4

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/KeithGiles

    Blog: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/keithgiles/

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • 122: Cynthia Beach: Disillusionment with Christian Leaders
    Jun 11 2025
    • Cynthia Beach has a deep connection to Castle Rock, Northern Ireland, which inspires her writing.
    • Her upbringing in a wealthy family contrasted with her mother's devout spirituality.
    • Disillusionment with Christian institutions shaped her understanding of faith.
    • Frederick Douglass's writings provided a framework for navigating faith amidst disillusionment.
    • Operational faith often leads to a focus on exceptionalism rather than true spirituality.
    • The persona adopted by church leaders can create a divide between authenticity and performance.
    • Success in ministry can come with the pressure to conform to certain personas.
    • Disillusionment can be a sign of growth and clarity in one's faith journey.
    • The paradox of being both depraved and glorious is a central theme in understanding faith.
    • Cynthia emphasizes the importance of seeing things clearly in one's spiritual journey. The vocabulary around hiding failures often stems from a desire to protect good work.
    • Exceptionalism often comes at the expense of marginalized groups.
    • Suffering can lead to humility and authenticity in leadership.
    • Listening to others is crucial for crafting community narratives.
    • Hope can be found in personal experiences and divine tenderness.
    • Creativity should be prioritized and not relegated to the bottom of our lists.
    • Idle brain time is beneficial for creativity and problem-solving.
    • The church is facing challenges that may lead to a post-Christian society.
    • Localizing actions can help combat feelings of hopelessness.
    • The desire for exceptionalism can hinder genuine connection and growth.

    Links:

    Web: https://www.cynthiabeach.com/

    Book: https://www.ivpress.com/the-surface-of-water

    Sponsors
    Quoir Square 2 Class: https://www.bk2sq1.com/square-2-next-steps-into-reconstruction (Promo code: Liminal for 10% off)

    Kineo Center: https://www.thekineocenter.com/cohort (mention "Liminal" in Application for $100 off)

    Monk Manual: https://monkmanual.com/LIMINAL (10% off all merchandise)

    Connect
    Find us on the web: https://liminalliving.simplecast.com/

    Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liminalliving

    Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCseqDsKpQv2r7AbFfrWF0ow

    Follow us on Patheos: patheos.com/editorial/podcasts/liminal-living

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 9 mins
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