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In this special Winter Solstice episode of Fkd Up byFaith: UNFKD, recorded on the solstice, in darkness, in the Galloway Forest Park in Scotland, I explore the meaning of the longest night of the year — a threshold between darkness and returning light. I share reflections on the spiritual depth of darkness. There is a gentle invitation to  reflect, to rest, to embrace stillness and the hidden beauty of unknowing. A gentle seasonal reminder that darkness is not the end, but the beginning of hope.   Galloway International Dark Sky Park https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/forest-parks/galloway-forest-park/dark-skies   Last Year’s Solstice episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/5hlxXgHtTYK2heqMzVs9KT?si=xTCncuzzQO2hwtHOF8om2A Music Credits: “Better Day” by Penguin Music,“Decemder” by Music Word, and “At the Farthest Land” by HarumachiMusic — all royalty-free via Pixabay. Donations made to artists where possible. “O Come, O Come Emmanuel” by K Jason French on Bandcamp. Paid download.

"No hate like Christian love" - was the prompt for this episode. A comment on a social media post was met with this response. And I get it. Recorded in the calm before storm Floris from a campervan on the west coast of Scotland, I share a brief reflection on love from a Christian theological perspective. My take is that we are compelled, as Christians, to love. And for me, this means praxis or love in action. However, this is contextualised with awareness that some people have been deeply wounded by Christianity. Bible References John 13:34-35 (NRSV) Matthew 22:36-40 (NRSV) Theological resources Jeanrond, Werner G. A Theology of Love. London, T & T Clark, 2010. Jeanrond, Werner G., ' Love', in Nicholas Adams, George Pattison, and Graham Ward (eds), The Oxford Handbook of Theology and Modern European Thought (2013; online edn, Oxford Academic, 3 June 2013), https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780199601998.013.0012,  Music “Better Day” and “Nebula” by Penguin Music on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/penguinmusic-24940186/ “Echoes of Heaven Meditation” by Leigh Robinson from Pixabay

In this episode of UNFKD I tackle one of the most 'harmful,misunderstood and just plain wrong' concepts in theology - HELL. It's one of those projects that, as a theologian, you kind of wish you'd never started. Thank God that there are some wonderful theologians and historians whose work I have relied on in this episode. I took as my starting point the phrase - oft repeated in my Scots childhood - 'Hell Mend Ye!' and I explore why the idea of hell might be a compelling one for religious and non-religious people alike. References Brock, M.D. (2016). Satan and the Scots : the Devil in Post-Reformation Scotland, c.1560-1700. Abingdon, Routledge. Brown, D. (2023). Hell. St Andrews Encyclopaedia of Theology. [online] Available at: https://www.saet.ac.uk/Christianity/Hell. David Bentley Hart (2019). That All Shall Be Saved : Heaven, Hell, and Universal Salvation. Yale University Press. Music “Better Day” and “Nebula” by Penguin Music on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/penguinmusic-24940186/ “Echoes of Heaven Meditation” by Leigh Robinson from Pixabay

In this episode of "UNFKD," Jude explores The Ascension. The discussion covers its historical and theological aspects, including its celebration in Catholic and Anglican traditions, and its (sometimes rather amusing) depiction in art. Jude then shares one of her sermons on the Ascension in which she explores the meaning of Jesus being taken "up" into heaven, wondering if heaven is a physical place above the clouds or a spiritual realm beyond our human understanding. Ending with some words from the late Pope Francis on how the Ascension encourages us to seek Christ in our daily lives and serve others with hope and love. Resources Reading from from the Acts of the Apostles 1: 11 (NRSV) Text of "The Cloud of Unknowing https://sacred-texts.com/chr/cou/index.htm Homily on the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord -  from Pope Francis (2018) https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2018/documents/papa-francesco_regina-coeli_20180513.html Very comprehensive Wikipedia entry on the Ascension https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ascension_of_Jesus Ascension in the Vatican News https://www.vaticannews.va/en/liturgical-holidays/solemnity-of-the-ascension-of-the-lord.html Ascension resources from Loyola Press https://www.loyolapress.com/catholic-resources/liturgical-year/sunday-connection/ascension-of-the-lord-cycle-c/   Music “Better Day” and “Nebula” by Penguin Music on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/penguinmusic-24940186/ “echoes-of-heaven-meditation-186652” by Natures Eye on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/natureseye-18615106/

I had an absolute blast talking to Emily Larsen and Trey Comstock from Divine Provisions Co. They are both United Methodist pastors based in Houston Texas, and together as Divine Provisions Co. they produce no less than three podcasts. We move from Trey and Emily's Fkd Up By Faith stories - OMG is all I can say - to talking about the theology of pool party baptisms and ministry as a game of Dungeons and Dragons. FULL TYPED TRANSCRIPT AT https://judemills.com/fubf-episode-34-with-divine-provisions-co DIVINE PROVISIONS CO. WEBSITE: https://www.divineprovisions.co/ MUSIC : Fkd Up By Faith theme music by the late David Goodall Incidental Music: "Nebula" by Penguin Music on Pixabay

In this Easter Monday episode of UNFKD, Jude Mills explores the theological significance of resurrection, exploring various interpretations and beliefs surrounding the event. From the traditional Easter vigil service to the different perspectives on Jesus' resurrection—whether physical, spiritual, or metaphorical—Jude examines how these views shape Christian doctrine and the hope of eternal life. The episode also touches on the role of women in the resurrection narrative and the ongoing debates about the nature of resurrection and eternal life . FULL EPISODE TRANSCRIPT AT https://judemills.com/unfkd-episode-15-resurrection REFERENCES & LINKS  The Easter Liturgy in the Church of England https://www.churchofengland.org/prayer-and-worship/worship-texts-and-resources/common-worship/churchs-year/times-and-seasons-6   The Gospel of Luke chapter 24 verses 1-23, 13-32 and 42  The Gospel of John chapter 3 verse 16; chapter 10 verse 30 and chapter 20  Naked Pastor “Women and the Resurrection” cartoon https://nakedpastor.com/products/women-and-the-resurrection   Passage from Julian of Norwich from “Meditations with Julian of Norwich” by Brendan Doyle  p. 77    MUSIC  Thine Be The Glory on the organ  https://www.smallchurchmusic.com  Introductory Music “Better Day” by Penguin Music on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/penguinmusic-24940186/   Incidental Music - “Desert of Mind” by  Harumachi Music on Pixabay https://pixabay.com/users/harumachimusic-13470593/

I am delighted to release new episode and indeed a whole new season of Fkd Up By Faith! I had a great conversation in this episode with Ann Russo (she/her). Ann is a licensed clinical social worker, mental health advocate, educator, and thought leader specializing in addressing complex and often stigmatized topics such as religious trauma, sexual empowerment, ethical non-monogamy, queer identity, and inclusivity in mental health.We talked about religious trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, the current US political climate and its impacts, and Julian of Norwich's cat! TRANSCRIPT OF THIS EPISODE AT https://judemills.com/fubf-episode-33-with-ann-russo LinksAnn's website https://www.annrusso.org/Ann's practice website https://www.amrtherapy.com/⁠Julian of Norwich https://julianofnorwich.org/pages/who-is-julian-of-norwichMusicTitle music by David GoodallIncidental music "Nebula" by Penguin Music on Pixabay

In this episode, host Jude Mills examines Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde's recent address at the National Cathedral, where she directly appealed to the POTUS for mercy toward LGBTQ+ people and migrants. The episode explores Liberation Theology's origins in 1960s Latin America, its core principles including the "preferential option for the poor," and its influence on modern progressive Christianity. Special attention is given to Marcella Althaus-Reid's contributions to queer theology. The episode concludes with a relevant passage from The Gospel of Matthew 25:34-40. A Full transcript of the episode is available at Judemills.com/podcastREFERENCESAlthaus-Reid, Marcella, Indecent Theology : Theological Perversions in Sex, Gender and Politics (London: Routledge, 2010)———, The Queer God (Routledge, 2004) Bishop Mariann, ‘A Service of Prayer for the Nation Homily’, https://edow.org/2025/01/22/a-service-of-prayer-for-the-nation-homilyBishop Mariann Edgar Budde’s website https://www.mariannbudde.comGospel Reading - MATTHEW 25: 34 – 40 (NRSV)Gutiérrez, Gustavo, A Theology of Liberation: History, Politics, and Salvation (Maryknoll, N.Y.: Orbis Books, 1988)Liberation Theology resources https://liberationtheology.orgQueer Theology - Resources for LGBTQ+ Christians and Supporters https://www.queertheology.comMUSIC: "Better Day" and "Nebula" by Penguinmusic on Pixabay penguinmusic - Pixabay

In this episode of Fkd Up by Faith: UNFKD, as we step into 2025, I indulge a pet peeve, reflecting on the way we always seem to label the previous year as a 'bad' year and hope that the next one will be better! I explore how the privilege of geography, culture and history shapes this perspective. I also consider the significance of the Christian feast of Epiphany—a celebration of revelation and light breaking into the world— and how it can (and perhaps should) demonstrate hope in action as we welcome in a New Year with purpose. Sources Nouwen, Henri, ‘Do Well the Few Things - Henri Nouwen’, Henri Nouwen Society, 2024 https://henrinouwen.org/meditations/do-well-the-few-things/ Solnit, Rebecca, Hope in the Dark : Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities. (London: Canongate, 2016) http://rebeccasolnit.net The "Christ Has No Body "Prayer is attributed to St. Teresa of Avila, but it is not found in her writings. Much like the prayer of St. Francis its sentiment is pure even if the author is suspect! Conspirituality Podcast https://www.conspirituality.net/episodes Music: "Better Day" and “Chill Lofi Beat” by Penguin Music;"At the Farthest Land" by HarumachiMusic ALL ON PIXABAY

In this final episode of my Advent series, I delve into the rich symbolism of the winter solstice, the longest night of the year. I reflect on my previous themes of hope, darkness, and liminality, exploring how this season invites rest, transformation, and the anticipation of light's return. I also address the misconception that Christians "stole" the solstice, uncovering some history and the deep resonance between nature's rhythms and spiritual practices across time and cultures. Join me for thoughtful reflections to close this Advent journey. Sources Bradshaw, Paul F., 'The Dating of Christmas: The Early Church', in Timothy Larsen (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Christmas (2020; online edn, Oxford Academic, 8 Oct. 2020)   Flanders, Judith, Christmas: A Biography (New York: Thomas Dunne Books/St. Martin’s Press, 2017)   Gifford, Daniel, 'The Winter Solstice and Other Celebrations of the Season', in Timothy Larsen (ed.), The Oxford Handbook of Christmas (2020; online edn, Oxford Academic, 8 Oct. 2020),   Poem – The Moment of Magic by Victoria Safford - https://www.uua.org/worship/words/meditation/moment-of-magic Music: "Better Day"by Penguin Music; "Decemder" by Oleksii_Kalyna; "At the Farthest Land" by HarumachiMusic ALL ON PIXABAY

This week, I’m reflecting on liminality—those in-between spaces of life that can feel so uncertain yet hold incredible potential for transformation. Inspired by my conversations with fellow creatives and theologians, I explore what it means to exist on the threshold—whether it’s the exposed seabed when the tide is out, the transition between life and death, and waiting and unknowing of Advent itself. Liminality isn’t always comfortable, but it’s a space where we can encounter God in profound ways. Join me as we explore how this season of waiting can help us embrace the mystery, find grounding, and discover hope in the transitions of our own lives. Sources The idea of Iona as a 'thin place' is attributed to the founder of the Iona Community, George MacLeod https://iona.org.uk/about/our-story/ Richard Rohr, Everything Belongs : The Gift of Contemplative Prayer (New York: The Crossroad Publishing Company, 2014). Music: "Better Day" by Penguin Music; "Decemder" by Oleksii_Kalyna; BOTH ON PIXABAY

In this week’s episode of Fkd Up by Faith: UNFKD, I reflect on the often-overlooked theme of darkness during Advent. I explore how darkness is necessary and sacred and share wisdom from John O'Donohue, Richard Rohr, and the great Christian mystics. I also invite some gentle practice: inner; outer and collective.Enjoy! Sources of quotes etc. 'Anam Cara - Spiritual Wisdom from the Celtic World' by John O'DOnohue 'Waiting In Darkness' - by Richard Rohr - Daily Meditation from the Center for Action and Contemplation. Mysticism from Meister Ekhart and Julian of Norwich Music: "Better Day" by Penguin Music; "Decemder" by Oleksii_Kalyna; "At The Farthest Land” by  by Harumachi Music - ALL ON PIXABAY

In this episode, Jude reflects on the season of Advent and particularly on the theme of Hope. Not as pie-in-the sky optimism but as a courageous, rooted act of trust, even - perhaps especially - amidst uncertainty. Highlights from the episode: What is Advent and what do "Christians" believe? Advent as a season of hope: What does it mean to prepare for hope in a broken world? Personal story: A rainbow amidst a cloudy day as a reminder to lean into hope. Spiritual reflection: Hope is not denial—it’s a resilient choice to trust in renewal and act with courage. Wisdom from others: Reflections from Henri Nouwen, Cynthia Bourgeault, Rebecca Solnit, Pope Francis and Br. David Steindl Rast A brief excerpt from Emily Dickinson's poem, "‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers." Sources ⁠https://www.cynthiabourgeault.org Dickinson, Emily, ‘“Hope” Is the Thing with Feathers’ (1891)https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/42889/hope-is-the-thing-with-feathers-314⁠ Quote from Br. David Steindl Rast ⁠https://grateful.org/resource/hope-3 Nouwen, Henri J.M., Advent and Christmas Wisdom from Henri J.M. Nouwen (Ligouri Publications, 2004) Pope Francis, ‘Angelus, 1 December 2024 ⁠https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/angelus/2024/documents/20241201-angelus.html⁠ Rebecca Solnit, Hope in the Dark : Untold Histories, Wild Possibilities. (Canongate, 2016) http://rebeccasolnit.net Gospel Reading for the first Sunday in Advent 2024 Luke 21:25-36

In this episode of UNFKD, I dive into the theology of baptism, influenced this week by recently baptised comedian Russell Brand posting a photo of him, in his underpants, baptising someone else. The episode tackles key questions about what baptism is and what it's for, who is 'allowed' to perform baptisms ( spoiler - it's not usually stand-up comedians) the theological differences across denominations, and its modern cultural significance, especially when controversial public figures come out as Christians. References and sources Guite, Malcolm. “A Pair of Sonnets for St. John the Baptist.” Malcolm Guite, 21 June 2022, malcolmguite.wordpress.com/2022/06/21/a-pair-of-sonnets-for-st-john-the-baptist-5/ Matthew 3:13-17 - New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition. Romans 6 - New Revised Standard Version, Anglicised Catholic Edition. https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/article/2024/may/14/russell-brand-baptised-thames-sins-washed-away-criminal-allegations https://premierchristian.news/en/news/article/russell-brand-faces-backlash-for-conducting-baptism-in-just-white-underwear Music "Better Day" and "Chill Lofi Beat" by Penguin Music; "At the farthest land -calm quiet relaxing piano" by HarumachiMusic. Both on Pixabay

In this episode of UNFKD, I take on one of the biggest misconceptions: that science and Christianity are incompatible. I look at how a long-debunked 19th-century idea still manages to convince us that the two have always been at odds. I explore insights from several scientists, thinkers and theologians like Saint Augustine, who believed all truth points to God, and Elizabeth Johnson, who argues that evolution and faith can work hand in hand. I also look at why some modern Christians still adhere to biblical literalism. Join me as I break down why faith and science don’t have to be in conflict but can together contribute to a deeper understanding of our world. Books and Sources Augustine: On Christian Doctrine Book II, Chapter 18. Coakley, S. (2012). Faith, Rationality and the Passions. John Wiley & Sons. Collins, F. (2008). The Language of God: A Scientist Presents Evidence for Belief. London: Simon and Schuster. Coyne, J.A. (2010). Why Evolution Is True. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Coyne, J.A. (2016). Faith Versus Fact : Why Science And Religion Are Incompatible. New York: Penguin Books. Hutchings, D. And Ungureanu, J.C. (2021). Of Popes And Unicorns : Science, Christianity, And How The Conflict Thesis Fooled The World. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press. Johnson, E.A. (2014). Ask The Beasts : Darwin And The God Of Love. London ; New York: Bloomsbury. Lewis, C.S. (2013). The Weight Of Glory: A Collection Of Lewis’ Most Moving Addresses. Harpercollins UK. Mcgrath, A.E. (2015). The Big Question : Why We Can’t Stop Talking about Science, Faith, And God. London: Hodder & Stoughton. ----- Music: "Better Day" and "Chill Lofi Beat" by Penguin Music on Pixabay