In this week's episode, Jenny and Phil discuss the importance of ancestors with Rev. William H. Lamar IV. They explore the role of ancestors in society, politics, and faith, as well as the fear associated with ancestor veneration. They explore the importance of facing and embracing our ancestral history, even the difficult and imperfect parts, emphacizing the need to avoid avoidance and shame, as they perpetuate generational trauma. By cutting off our connection to all of our ancestors, we become disconnected from ourselves, our bodies, the land, and each other.

The conversation also highlights the role of disruption and questioning in ancestral healing, as well as the significance of engaging with the text and exploring our own ancestral roots. Ultimately, the goal is to become good ancestors while also loving our own ancestors, fiercely.


Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:22 The Importance of Ancestors
05:20 Ancestors by Blood and Bond
08:09 The Connection Between Ancestors and Now
09:20 Ancestral Connection in Society and Politics
11:31 Ancestors and the Theology of Birding
13:49 The Revisionist History of Ancestors
14:22 Healing and Ancestors
19:32 The Fear of Diminishing Worship of Jesus
21:48 Tapping into Other Streams of Ancestors
28:50 The Capitalization of Ancestry
36:23 The Difference Between Information and Formation
41:48 Recognizing and Honoring Ancestors
47:07 Cutting Off Ancestral Connection
49:20 Facing the Hard Stuff
50:05 Bringing Ancestors to the Space
51:33 Disruption and Questioning
52:19 Ancestors in the Midst
53:46 Engaging with the Text
54:16 Exploring Ancestors
56:18 Uncovering Hidden History
57:19 Becoming Good Ancestors

Rev. Lamar also references Cole Arthur Riley and a book by Daniel Foor.