In Conversation With... Pastors in Middle America

In this conversation, Ideos VP Greg Arthur engages with pastors Dexter Harris and Dr. Grant Wade to discuss the unique challenges and opportunities of pastoring in Middle America, particularly in the context of political divisions and social justice issues. They explore the very different community contexts of Sullivan, Illinois, and Gary, Indiana, and how these environments shape their congregations' political engagement and social responsibilities. The discussion emphasizes the importance of unity, the need for difficult conversations, and the role of faith in navigating these complex issues. They also explore the challenges in discipling Christians who are already being shaped and formed by political ideologies. Takeaways Pastoring in Middle America presents unique challenges and opportunities. Community context significantly influences the church's engagement with social issues. Political landscapes are deeply felt in local congregations, affecting unity and engagement. Social justice and economic equality are pressing concerns for many communities. Building unity requires difficult conversations and a willingness to engage across differences. Political fatigue exists, but there is also a commitment to social change. Faith plays a crucial role in shaping political identities and community engagement. Unity should prioritize relationships over uniformity in beliefs. Churches must engage in practical ministry to address community needs. The work of unity is ongoing and requires persistent effort and hope.