Around the Block with Pastor T

The Sankofa Experience: Learning from the Past to Impact Present Systems (feat. Rev Dr. Kendrick Curry)

In this episode of "Around the Block with Pastor T", host Thabiti Anyabwile speaks with Reverend Dr. Kendrick Curry, pastor of Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., about the history of their neighborhood from the 1950s to the present. They discuss early church planting, changing racial demographics, and major social change in the area. The podcast aims to encourage more Christians to join God in the margins and do gospel work with people in vulnerable and neglected places. Listeners are invited to think about the history of their own neighborhoods.
The episode highlights the importance of understanding the stories that shape a neighborhood in order to effectively communicate the gospel. These stories are diverse and interlocking, operating on individual, organizational, community, and national levels to create the ecology of a neighborhood. Church planters and pastors must learn these stories to effectively engage with the community and share the gospel. Even faithful Christians must find ways to integrate the gospel into the neighborhood ecosystem. The gospel is not limited to the church but is present in the wider community, and Christians should be a visible presence in the support system necessary to show that they are the hands and feet of Christ. By incorporating the stories of a neighborhood into the articulation of the gospel, transformation can occur, and the hurting needs of the community can be addressed.
Pastor Curry emphasizes the importance of addressing not only individual needs but also larger systemic factors that impact marginalized communities. He believes that the church has a responsibility to use its system to bring about systemic change that enables all to thrive and prosper. The church should be a support system that undergirds and embraces the community, demonstrating that they are the hands and feet of Christ. Pastor Curry draws on his personal experience of growing up in Dallas and learning about the power of organized groups to bring about change. He believes that by systematically eliminating all reasons why individuals cannot follow Jesus Christ and live a kingdom life, they can live more abundantly without being associated with the greed and scarcity often found in marginalized communities. The episode highlights the need to grapple with the notion of systems and systems change in a self-conscious and theological way to address the larger factors that impinge upon the lives of individuals.
Pastor Curry believes that the church has a responsibility to use its system to bring about systemic change and improve the health and prosperity of communities. He emphasizes the importance of addressing issues of greed and scarcity that are often found in communities of color, particularly black communities. The church must systematically eliminate all reasons why individuals cannot follow Jesus Christ and live a kingdom life. Pastor Curry acknowledges that systems are a reality of life and that the church must contend with them in marginalized communities. He and other pastors at Pennsylvania Avenue Baptist Church have grappled with the notion of systems and systems change in a self-conscious and theological way, seeking to impact not just the needs of individuals but also the larger-scale demographic and social changes that shape local church ministry. They believe in creating a support system that undergirds and embraces the community to demonstrate that they are the hands and feet of Christ.
TIMESTAMPS
[00:01:35] Neighborhood history and change.
[00:07:23] Living in a changing community.
[00:10:16] Racial reconciliation at Pennsylvania Avenue.
[00:16:41] Organized groups and systems.
[00:18:18] The church's responsibility.
[00:23:23] Sankofa and the Gospel.
[00:27:25] Boldness in sharing the gospel.
[00:33:29] Literacy and the Gospel.
[00:35:37] Wealth redistribution in society.

Centering the Margins (feat. Duke Kwon)

In this episode of Around the Block with Pastor T, we dive into the necessity, practices and struggles of centering marginalized groups in order to effective reach the cities. While it's necessary to love and include everyone, we must address the specific needs and realities of different neighborhoods within a city. As we talk with the Reverend Duke Kwon about the history, diversity, and unique challenges of his Washington, D.C. neighborhood, we see how focusing solely on the city as a whole can hinder the successful establishment of churches in marginalized neighborhoods. To effectively reach and serve the city, it is crucial to first reach and connect with the diverse neighborhoods within it. That task, however, is easier said than done. 
 
Join us for part 1 of a 3 part talk with our brother Duke Kwon.
 
[00:01:43] Neighborhoods in the city.
[00:05:37] Historic neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.
[00:07:10] Neighborhood dynamics and challenges.
[00:13:19] Affinity spaces and community.
[00:15:29] Managing Cross-Cultural Community.
[00:19:43] Frustration and doubt in community.
[00:22:40] Framing justice for white evangelicals.
[00:26:38] Imbalance in preaching.
[00:29:10] Developing Non-Self-Conscious Presence.

The Power of Tears: Seeing with Moral Clarity (feat. Duke Kwon)

In this episode of Around the Block, Pastor T and Duke Kwon continue their conversation by discussing the power of tears and how they help us see things with moral clarity. Duke emphasizes that unless we collectively weep with repentance and sorrow over the evil that has been perpetrated upon the African-American community, we will never be able to ask the right questions or center the right people. Tears have the capacity to communicate joy, sorrow, and wonder, and they also help us gain a deeper understanding of our painful histories and wrongs. The more painful our lives and histories, the more weeping should be present in our lives. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation to explore the transformative power of tears.
 
[00:00:00] Tears and moral clarity.
[00:05:39] Centering the concerns of one.
[00:09:57] Shedding tears over injustice.
[00:12:01] Encouraging study and personal relationships.
[00:15:50] Spiritual formation in community.
[00:19:03] Embracing theological complexities.
[00:22:17] The dangers of control.
[00:26:24] Confronting the church's failures.

Flourishing Sisters: A Better Starting Point (feat. Duke Kwon)

When it comes to conversations, Starting Points Matter. Starting conversations on both race and gender relations must begin from a place of empathy and understanding if they're ever going to go anywhere helpful. In this episode of Around the Block, Pastor T and Duke Kwon highlight the problematic nature of using certain Bible verses, such as "slaves obey your masters" and "women should not teach or have authority over men," as starting points for these conversations. They emphasize the need for deep contrition and repentance when it comes to the mistreatment of women in the name of biblical interpretation. The hosts also draw attention to the power dynamics and privilege that can be present in these discussions. Ultimately, they stress the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space for dialogue and understanding.
[00:00:09] Starting conversations on race.
[00:04:32] Roles for women in the church.
[00:10:05] Starting with broader theological context.
[00:13:22] Women's roles in the church.
[00:18:48] Women in the Me Too era.
[00:22:12] The shepherdess role.
[00:25:43] Women in church ministry roles.
[00:28:09] Resources on creating clarity.
[00:31:38] Women in the church.

Finding Authenticity & Avoiding Single Stories (feat. Ashley Davenport)

In this episode of Around the Block, host Pastor T sits down with Ashley Davenport, the neighbor outreach director at Anacostia River Church. They discuss the importance of "neighboring well" and how it is crucial for building relationships and incarnating the gospel in their community. Ashley shares her experiences in different high schools, highlighting the racial segregation and stratification present in her city. They also touch on the significance of rooting themselves in the neighborhood and learning the local cultures to effectively serve their mission. Tune in to gain insights on building community and embodying the gospel in your own neighborhood.
TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:05] Racial segregation in high schools.
[00:07:22] Losing kids at a high rate.
[00:08:29] Racial segregation in Topeka.
[00:12:22] Celebrating diversity in schools.
[00:14:41] Understanding different perspectives.
[00:19:09] Southeast DC's diverse community.
[00:23:37] Outreach and community engagement.
[00:25:40] A community that's already working.

The Intersection of Honesty & Hope: Ministering In the Midst of Grief & Sorrow

In this episode of "Around the Block," Pastor T is joined for part 2 of his convo with Ashley Davenport, the Neighbor Outreach Director at Anacostia River Church. They discuss the challenges of ministering in inner city neighborhoods marked by tragedy and loss. The conversation explores how to care for oneself while engaging with suffering, how to lament and continue, and how to let lament and sorrow shape ministry expectations. Tune in to hear their insights on ministering in the midst of grief and sorrow.
TIMESTAMPS
[00:01:19] Ministering in the midst of grief and sorrow.
[00:07:32] Learning to lament and grieve.
[00:09:22] Dealing with grief and trauma.
[00:14:31] Rhythms and practices in the church.
[00:18:45] Realistic expectations in urban ministry.
[00:22:11] Revolutionary patience and commitment.
[00:24:22] Long-term commitment in church planting.
[00:29:17] Revolutionary patience and hope.

Becoming Acceptable Outsiders (feat. Jeremy McClain)

In this episode of Around the Block, Pastor T sits down with Jeremy McClain, a pastor and founding elder of Anacostia River Church. The discussion centers around the concept of being an "acceptable outsider" in a community and the importance of entering a neighborhood with love and friendship. Jeremy shares his experiences and insights on building relationships and making a positive impact in the community. Join us as we explore the power of genuine connection and the transformative potential of being an acceptable outsider.
 
TIMESTAMPS
[00:03:08] Low-income neighborhoods in DC.
[00:06:00] Resilience in our neighborhoods.
[00:10:06] Becoming an acceptable outsider.
[00:13:24] Living on their terms.
[00:19:14] Priestly work of Christ.
[00:24:35] Fear and community support.
[00:27:28] Fear and strength in community.
[00:30:11] Recovering the priestly aspects.
 

Keep Hope Alive (feat. Jeremy McClain)

In this episode, Pastor T continues his conversation with Pastor Jeremy McClain as they delve into the crucial role of shepherding the community through tragedy and loss as an essential aspect of ministry. They emphasize the active involvement of pastors and churches in the community's rituals and practices for dealing with trauma and loss. By participating in these events, pastors can demonstrate support, solidarity, and provide comfort to those affected by tragedy.
One example discussed is the practice of reading the obituary of a young person whose life was tragically cut short during a church service. This act not only acknowledges the loss but also allows the congregation to grieve and mourn together. It serves as a powerful demonstration of the church's commitment to being present and supportive during difficult times.
The guest also highlights other community rituals, such as vigils and candlelight ceremonies, that bring people together to lament and support one another. These rituals provide a space for individuals to express their grief and find solace in the collective mourning of the community.
Join them as they explore the ways to engage with tragedy and show up for the work of community service.
 
TIME STAMPS
[00:02:41] Tragedy in our communities.
[00:07:27] Lamenting and seeking justice.
[00:11:32] Community rituals during tragedy.
[00:16:05] Urgency in serving the community.
[00:21:22] Context determines ministry.
[00:23:30] Internal ministry within the church.
[00:27:01] The last word on hope.

Small, Simple & Free: A Different Way to Think About Church Ministry (feat. Josh Roulhac)

In this episode of "Around the Block with Pastor T," Pastor T sits down with Pastor Joshua Roulhac to discuss the importance of church planting and revitalization in neglected areas like Congress Heights, DC. They highlight the great need for the gospel in these communities and the lack of churches in these areas compared to others. They also explore the challenges and changes that come with church planting and revitalization, particularly when it comes to smaller churches.  There is sometimes a perception that smaller churches aren't as successful or significant as larger churches, which may stem from a consumer mentality some people bring to church, expecting customized consumer experiences. What if the smallness of a church is more of an advantage than a liability. In an ever-changing and ever-evolving community, a churches ability to be nimble and pivot can ensure it is always ready to reach the needs of the community.
Maybe our focus should be on better churches, not BIGGER ones? Join Josh and Pastor T as they talk about this.
TIMESTAMPS
[00:00:10] Overlooking neglected areas in churches.
[00:04:19] Transitioning into a new community.
[00:07:14] Inner city ministry work.
[00:14:21] The resilience of the church.
[00:17:28] Shedding the big church model.
[00:20:33] The significance of small churches.
[00:24:52] Serving black and brown neighborhoods.
[00:26:48] Loving immigrant and refugee neighbors.

Making Hope Becomes a Habit (feat. Ernest Clover)

In this episode of Around the Block with Pastor T, we talk to Ernest Clover the Director of the The Dream Center in DC. In distressed and neglected communities, constant exposure to the problems and needs of these communities can lead to fatigue, frustration, and eventually apathy among pastors, Christians, planters, and residents. It can feel like an endless battle against hope. Insert the Dream Center, a place where Hope Becomes a Habit.
The Dream Center, a historic community center, offers various programs and services such as a gym, afterschool programming space, dance studio, classroom, computer lab, recording studio, and even a partnership with Howard University to address opioid addiction in the community. It serves as a bustling hub where children and adults can come together. A place where hope can be felt, not just talked about. 
Pull up a seat and let's talk about how to make hope a habit.
TIME STAMPS
[00:00:00] The Dream Center's Vision.
[00:05:47] The Dream Center's Chalkboard Wall.
[00:08:02] Pursuit of daily blessings.
[00:12:10] Challenging experiences during COVID.
[00:14:07] The blessings of being available.
[00:18:07] Grit in neglected neighborhoods.
[00:20:11] Gentrification and its nuances.
[00:24:00] Opportunity in the neighborhood.
[00:27:00] The importance of hope.
[00:30:06] The importance of biblical illiteracy.
[00:34:01] Running the Dream Center.
[00:35:27] Creating a Parachurch ministry.
[00:38:33] The power of hope.