It’s one of the most asked questions about the faith: “Do Quakers read the Bible?”. The answer is complicated, as this single book has been used as both a brutal weapon and a profound source of liberation. This episode dives into that paradox, examining a faith that places a living Spirit above the written word. This distinction gives people permission to wrestle with the text, to question its authority, and even to find faith in walking away.

Sarah Ruden: https://sarahruden.com/

Ashley Wilcox: https://www.womenslectionary.com/

Peterson Toscano: https://www.petersontoscano.com/about-peterson

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Monteverde, Costa Rica -- January 15-20, 2026

A Quaker-Led, Interfaith Spiritual Retreat

Amid the mist and quiet beauty of a mountaintop cloud forest, Earth & Ember invites spiritual seekers and contemplatives to explore how our lives can be rooted in compassion and peace--while still engaging with a world marked by injustice, greed, and cruelty. Each day offers centering practices, meaningful participation in our rainforest community, rich spiritual conversation, and the wisdom of local scientists, artists, and peacemakers.

Learn more at www.earthnember.com

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What does it mean to “conspire for goodness” in a fractured world? We visit the historic Valley Mills Friends Meeting to talk with pastor Rachel Doll O’Mahoney about the power of a community built on deep, authentic care. Then, we hear her surprising sermon that reclaims the word “conspiracy” as a radical invitation to breathe together for a more hopeful purpose.

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Using both the pulpit and the page, Quaker pastor Philip Gulley has been a bold voice that challenges the church’s stance on heaven and hell, LGBTQ issues, and more. As he’s seen greater censorship in the publishing world, Phil has moved to an online newsletter where he examines the rise of Donald Trump and calls on Christians to be more active in the pursuit of truth and justice.

In this interview, Jon speaks with Phil about Christian nationalism, his focus post-election, and much more.

This episode was originally released on February 12, 2025. Check out our full archives for more stories of spiritual courage.

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