In this conversation, Christine Sine interviews Kathy Escobar, the author of ‘Faith Shift,’ about her book and the impact it has had on readers. They discuss the process of faith deconstruction and reconstruction, as well as Kathy’s own journey of reimagining her faith. They talk about the unique community and church experience at The Refuge, which Kathy cofounded. She shares how the community has evolved and the challenges and joys of maintaining a diverse and growing community. They also touch on Kathy’s involvement in Community Heals and the work they do in creating spaces for transformation. Kathy Escobar discusses the importance of accessibility and community in healing, as well as her experience walking the Camino de Santiago. She opens up about the devastating loss of her son and the lessons she has learned about grief and making meaning. Kathy emphasizes the need to talk openly about death. She concludes by mentioning her upcoming book, ‘Turning Over Tables: Lent, Power, and a Weary World.’
Takeaways
- ‘Faith Shift’ is a book that explores the process of faith deconstruction and reconstruction, providing language and support for those going through this journey.
- Reimagining faith is an ongoing process of unraveling and reimagination, with core values of freedom, mystery, and diversity.
- The Refuge is a unique community and church experience that focuses on healing, social action, and creative collaboration, with shared values rather than shared beliefs.
- Maintaining a diverse and growing community requires ongoing commitment to growth, health, and resourcing.
- Community Heals cofounded by Kathy is a nonprofit organization that creates spaces for transformation, including Beauty Heals, a property for rest and renewal, and Presence Heals, offering spiritual direction and holding space for individuals. Healing should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their resources or background.
- Grief has no rules, and it is important to honor the rhythms of grief and make meaning out of loss.
- Talking openly about death is crucial for healing and supporting those who have experienced loss.
- Kathy Escobar has a new book coming out called ‘Turning Over Tables: Lent, Power, and a Weary World.
Kathy Escobar is Co-Founder and Community Cultivator at The Refuge, a hub for healing community, social action, and creative collaboration in North Denver. She’s a pastor, spiritual director, speaker, advocate, and author of several books including Practicing: Changing Yourself to Change the World and Faith Shift: Finding Your Way Forward When Everything You Believe is Coming Apart. She’s also Co-Founder of #communityheals, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating accessible experiences on the water and in the mountains for all ages. More at kathyescobar.com.