Church History for Chumps

The rumblings of the Second Crusade have begun. 
But before that, we have to set the stage with one of the most influential figures, not just in rallying troops to take up the cross, but in all of medieval Christianity: Bernie of Clairvaux. 
Bernard was a man of many hats: monk, mystic, theologian, teacher, papal advisor, and even a reformer (but not the protestant kind). 
To us, Bernie is a perfect example of someone who represented a kind of intellectual piety and love for Christ that *feels so strange* in lieu of his historical context. But that's just what we think, what do YOU think??? Let us know in the comments. 
Also, serious question, can you hear Taylor's fan? If you can let us know. It's really obnoxious. He's really obnoxious, too. This is John btw. 
Support the show

Just War Theory seems to be a phrase that's thrown around a lot lately. But where does it come from? Who does it come from? And why is it still relevant today?
For this episode, John and Taylor are going to dive into the deep cuts of none other than Augustine himself. We'll explore the oft-quote passages from the Contra Faustum where this idea originated that would shape hundreds of years of Western combat. 
And if you just guessed that we're easing our way back into the Crusades, well you're right pal. 
Shameless Sponsored Plug
Support the show

You know, when Taylor and John meet with our Board of Trustees every third Tuesday, we usually ask the same question: Where was the whimsy in the last episode? 
This week, we're pushing whimsy on all cylinders. We're here to share three (that's right, three!) stories of saints with one thing in common: they aren't humans. At least not in the traditional sense.
We'll share the stories of Li Ban, the venerated mermaid, Saint Guinefort, a greyhound recognized as a martyr, and the mysterious Mexican folk saint Santa Muerte. 

Support the show

Dyed eggs, pastel colors, and of course the Easter Bunny, a Claus-esque creature of the night that brings good tidings to pious children. 
When you take a step back it really does feel a little strange when we consider the ways that we celebrate Easter these days. Do you ever wonder how we got here?
Wonder no more, dear chump listener. 
Join us as we explore the history of Easter, from the early days of squabbling over when to celebrate it, to the advent of hard-boiled eggs and wearing pink and yellow polo shirts. 
And also, we've got new perks! Fun perks! Cool perks! Support us today! Or tomorrow is fine, too. 
Support the show

Many modern observers of trends in Western Christianity have rightly noted a move away from the 'low-church' worlds of typical non-denom and Baptist fare, in favor of a more Anglicanish, fancy-hat-wearing-vibe. 
If you ask our guest host, Mr. Tyler Sanders, why that is, he's likely to say it's because Baptists don't get enough credit for the depth of history that they bring to the table. Andrew Fuller for example (not the cake guy) is a great example of an influential figure who shaped modern missions and wrote Baptist theology, all while shepherding his own church. 
Regardless of where you fall on the pastor-wears-a-fancy-hat vs. no-hats-in-church spectrum, we think you'll enjoy our discussion today.
So yeah, we're back with another Baptist episode (per the demands in Taylor's podcast host contract). But it's a good time, we promise. Thanks again Tyler for joining! 

Support the show