Podcast

Dr. Matthew Welsh – Spiritual Media Blog

Take On Faith – July 17, 2021

Dr. Matthew Welsh founded the Spiritual Media Blog, which hosts interviews and resources for readers and communities. He joined host Rev. Xolani Kacela for a lively conversation on Take On Faith on KTAL-LP 101.5.

Dr. Welsh shared his story of leaving his law career, earning a Ph.D. in psychology, and going into practice. He also sees patients at the Veteran Affairs Center in Indianapolis. Importantly, the interview covered how mental health and spirituality merge.

Surprisingly, Matt Welsh revealed half of his blog’s content is targeted to people seeking resources for a better life. Most of his guests practice non-traditional spirituality. Dr. Welsh shared how writing his novel helped him deal with important life issues and discover his purpose.

From Guest’s Website:

Dr. Matthew Welsh J.D., Ph.D. is the founder of Spiritual Media Blog. After graduating from law school Dr. Welsh created Spiritual Media Blog to be a source of inspirational content, media, and entertainment. He began his career in Hollywood working for an entertainment agency, the William Morris Agency, and then as a trial lawyer for the Department of Child Services in Indiana. He realized that he was not happy working as a lawyer. So, he quit his job as a lawyer to pursue his calling to become a psychologist and obtained his PhD in Psychology. He now works as a full-time clinical psychologist. For more information about his private coaching and counseling practice, please visit https://drmatthewwelsh.com.

Dr. Welsh has presented inspirational lectures on how to create a meaningful career to venues across the country including the San Diego Convention Center, international not-for-profit organization Dress For Success, and the University of Notre Dame. He is the author of The Bottom Line, a novel about a young man in college learning how to overcome the male ego. He has also appeared in film as a featured guest for the Spiritual Cinema Circle DVD club, alongside Stephen Simon, producer of Academy Award winning film, What Dreams May Come. His podcast has featured conversations with thought-leaders including Neale Donald Walsch, Arielle Ford, James Redfield (Author of Celestine Prophecy) and William Arntz (Director of What the Bleep Do We Know?).

Dr. Larry Ward

Take On Faith – July 10, 2021

Dr. Larry Ward practices as an ordained Buddhist teacher and ordained Christian minister. He completed his Buddhist studies with the Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh at Plum Village in France. He authored the book America’s Racial Karma, which is published by Parallax Press in 2020.

During this Take On Faith episode, Dr. Ward and host Xolani Kacela discussed subjects covered in his book. They explored Ward’s experience of race while teaching in China and Africa. Ward discussed the importance of being in the body.

He shared what it means to be African American and Buddhist. His research covers the beginning of racism. Also, the show explored his meditative and prayer life and the reflective work covered in the book.

The conversation covered how spiritual practices can heal the racial divide in America. Host and guest explored neuroscience, trauma, embodied spirituality, and how history and truth impact human identity and emotions.

From Guest’s Website:

So says Zen Buddhist teacher Dr. Larry Ward.

Shot at by the police as an 11-year-old child for playing baseball in the wrong spot, as an adult, Larry Ward experienced the trauma of having his home firebombed by racists. At Plum Village Monastery in France, the home in exile of his teacher, Vietnamese peace activist and Zen teacher Thich Nhat Hanh, Dr. Ward found a way to heal. In these short reflective essays, he offers his insights on the effects of racial constructs and answers the question: how do we free ourselves from our repeated cycles of anger, denial, bitterness, pain, fear, violence? Larry Ward looks at the causes and conditions that have led us to our current state and finds, hidden in the crisis, a profound opportunity to reinvent what it means to be a human being. This is an invitation to transform America’s racial karma.

Justin Miles – Black & Buddhist

Take On Faith – June 26, 2021

Justin Miles serves as a Black Buddhist teacher who also identifies as a Christian. He joined host Xolani Kacela on Take On Faith for a discussion about his spiritual work. The show airs on KTAL-LP 101.5 from Las Cruces, NM.

Justin Miles is a licensed mental health provider, hip-hop artist, and martial arts expert. He shared his journey to Buddhism and how he lives as Black person on many levels. He unpacked the challenges of living true to himself and being among an all-white spiritual community.

A native of D.C., Miles offered listeners several unique perspectives on being true to oneself, embracing imperfection, and keeping an open mind while dealing with today’s most pressing issues.

From Justin Miles’ website:

In 2010 I started the Miles Institute of Integral Living in order to help anyone that I could with challenges of the body, mind, spirit, self, culture, society and nature. The various ways that I assist others come directly from my experience as an imperfect human being, an educated and experienced Buddhist teacher, meditation instructor, psychotherapist, Hiphop artist and survivalist. My philosophy is to be of benefit to others by any means necessary, but especially by any means that others feel connected with. I will help anyone do anything that they think will provide growth and healing in their lives as long as it won’t hurt themselves or others. Whatever skills, insights and gifts that appear to be mine are shared freely with the world.

I began to realize that the only thing to do with my life is to be of service to others, not just through my education but through whoever I’ve learned to be on my human journey. I try to see the wisdom in everything and the world as teacher when i’m relaxed and receptive enough to allow that to happen. Personally, my sense of well-being comes from the practices of meditation, spiritual study, making Hiphop music, gardening, being alone in nature, facilitating therapy, raising my children, sweat lodges, vision quests, marksmanship, hanging out with friends and watching movies, but there is probably nothing that brings me greater pleasure than helping others.

Daniel Simpson

Take On Faith – June 12, 2021

Daniel Simpson discussed his new book, The Truth About Yoga. His book provides an in-depth look at yoga. The book is available on Amazon and wherever you buy your books.

Simpson joined host Xolani Kacela from his home in Oxford, England. It was his first appearance on Take On Faith on KTAL-LP 101.5.

Daniel Simpson shared his story about how he discovered yoga. Also, he talked about how he became a yoga expert. He discussed yoga’s roots and its early texts. Importantly, he explained yoga evolved from Hindu practice to modern day exercise.

He broke down how politics, religion, and culture changed yoga practice. Originally, it was a way to ease suffering. An established author, he updated listeners on the current state of yoga in the world.

From Guest’s Website:

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Subtitled “A Comprehensive Guide to Yoga’s History, Texts, Philosophy, and Practices,” this book provides succinct answers to almost any question about yoga’s evolution, putting teachings into context and dispelling misconceptions.

To quote the back cover:

Yoga is practiced by many millions of people worldwide and is celebrated for its mental, physical, and spiritual benefits. And yet, as Daniel Simpson reveals in The Truth of Yoga, much of what is said about yoga is misleading. For example, the word “yoga” does not always mean union. In fact, in perhaps the discipline’s most famous text—the Yoga Sutra of Patanjali—its aim is described as separation: isolating consciousness from everything else. And yoga is not five thousand years old, as is commonly claimed; the earliest evidence of practice dates back about twenty-five hundred years. (Yoga may well be older, but no one can prove it.)

The Truth of Yoga is a clear, concise, and accessible handbook for the lay reader that draws upon abundant recent scholarship. It outlines these new findings with practitioners in mind, highlighting ways to keep traditions alive in the twenty-first century.

Daniel Simpson teaches at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, and at Triyoga in London. He is a graduate of Cambridge University and has a master’s degree from SOAS University of London.

Order a copy on the links below, at your local shop, or via Google or iBooks. An audiobook read by Tim Bruce is available on Audible.

Rev. Kelli Jareaux

Take On Faith – June 5, 2021

Rev. Carolyn Wilkins, our host, speaks with Rev. Kelli Jareaux, a minister, attorney and author. They discuss Rev. Kelli’s newly released book ‘I AM @ WORK‘ including the true purpose of work, how work can be more fulfilling and tips on how to move beyond challenges.

From Kelli Jareaux’s Amazon Page:

Experience Divinity at Work! Sizzle with Unique Purpose! Flourish in Any Workplace! Navigate Difficult Office Dynamics! For those looking to succeed in the practice of Spirituality at Work, this book reveals how! With this book, you can Discover your True Work and advance it on any job! Here is a sample of what you will find inside:
I AM @ Work—Unleashing The Power Of Divine Self On The Job
•Seizing Your God-Given Authority through Energetic Programming
•101 Tips to Ascend Above Workplace Challenges
•Decoding Your Work DNA
•Constructing and Customizing Your Spiritual Toolkit for the Workplace
•Deciphering Why God needs You on the Job
•Igniting Quit Power, Practicing Purpose over Permanence
•Transforming the World so that the Smartest and best are the Truest
•Karoshi—Work Yourself to Life, Not Death
… and Much, MUCH More!
And, as a Special Bonus for your home and work life Rev. Kelli reveals the “Yes . . . And” Secret for effectively saying “No” to anyone on the job or wherever you are!
Rev. Kelli’s private coaching clients and workshop attendees have thrived using these secrets. Now, YOU can too!

Rev. Kelli is a mystical activist committed to evolution and transformation in the workplace and the world. Described by New York Times Best-Selling Author and Emmy Award Winner, Reverend Doctor Iyanla Vanzant, as a “blessing to God’s Kingdom” and “simply magnificent,” Rev. Kelli is a visionary voice for our time. A Georgetown Law graduate, she has examined the inner workings of countless corporations, organizations, and governmental entities while serving as an attorney, executive life coach, international facilitator, and trainer. Various publications have featured her work including the anthology, Sacred Secrets: Finding Your Way To Joy, Peace, And Prosperity, and 11:11 Magazine. Rev. Kelli is the founder of the GROW Continuum, Inc., a non-denominational church with the simple motto, LIVE LIFE & GROW!

Dravon James

Take On Faith – June 2021

Dravon James is author of Freedom is Your Birthright. She joined host, Rev. Xolani Kacela, for a multi-faceted conversation on Take On Faith. The show broadcasts on KTAL-LP FM 101.5.

Dravon James is known as an inspirational speaker, radio host, and life coach. Moreover, she is the founder of Everyday Peace. EP serves as her platform for helping and inspiring others to build the life of their dreams.

A pharmacist by training, she uses her pharmacist skills for bringing light into other peoples’ lives. Plus, it’s on the show, where she shares her Everyday Peace message.

She also hosts her weekly radio show “Everyday Peace” on Unity Radio.

You can reach Dr. Dravon James on her social media handles: Twitter, Instagram, and Skype.

From guest’s website:

Her journey began in poverty on the South Side of Chicago. Though she had always dreamed of a career on the stage, Dravon went on to earn a doctorate in pharmacy from Creighton University and has worked as a pharmacist all of her adult life. Along with her medical career and theatrical aspirations, Dravon has also had a keen interest in personal development. After reading Norman Vincent Peale’s The Power of Positive Thinking in college, she went on to make a lifelong study of the power we all have to create the life we want.

Dr. Janice Marie Johnson

Take On Faith – June 2021

Dr. Janice Marie Johnson, Co-Director of Ministries and Faith Development at the Unitarian Universalist Association (UUA), is the guest of this episode of Take On Faith. The show, hosted by Rev. Xolani Kacela, broadcasts on KTAL-LP 10.5 in Las Cruces, NM. The show airs on Saturdays at 10 am MT.

Dr. Johnson, an expert on religious leadership, explored many topics which are high priority for liberal religious faith leaders. First, she discussed her grief following her twin sister’s death this year. Then, she talked about the collective grief many experience around the globe due to the pandemic.

Importantly, Dr. Johnson described the Unitarian Universalist (UU) faith, which many describe as a liberal religious faith tradition. Next, she spoke about the UU seven principles and the UU mission and vision for ministry. She talked about her view of the religious landscape as one of most senior leaders in the denomination. Also, how leaders at the top guide a denomination.

Interview Highlights

Prophetically, Dr. Johnson offered words about healing our nation and world by adhering to love, compassion, listening, empathy, and other virtues.

Of particular note, Dr. Johnson and Kacela discussed in-depth challenges for those disrupting white supremacy culture. This effort stands at the forefront of UU ministry. Together, they unpacked the need for white people to share power and honor BIPOCs (Black, Indigenous people, and people of color) realities and experiences.

Of great significance, Dr. Johnson provided insights for healing racial division. Likewise, you’ll want to learn her take on the differences between liberal and conservative faiths.

Skillfully, Dr. Johnson shared how love and listening are two important factors for all ministry. You’ll enjoy this powerful conversation with a major thought leader.

You can reach Dr. Janice Marie Johnson at jmjohnson@uua.org.

Xolani Kacela & Carolyn Wilkins

Take On Faith – May 22, 2021

Xolani Kacela and Carolyn Wilkins, the co-hosts of Take On Faith on KTAL-LP 101.5, had a spirited conversation. They updated listeners on the developments in their ministries during the pandemic. Kacela serves as Minister, Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces. Wilkins serves as the lead minister, Inspirational Ministries, also based in Las Cruces.

Also, they discussed many contemporary concerns on the spiritual landscape. Of note, was the pandemic’s impact on their congregations and the greater Las Cruces community. Additionally, they shared reactions to the recent interfaith gathering at the S. New Mexico Islamic Center and their hopes for upcoming multi-faith events. Together, Kacela and Wilkins unpacked topics that affects the listening audience.

Importantly, Revs. Kacela and Wilkins delved in the impact of the big three. They include: the George Floyd verdict, Pres. Biden’s election, and the U.S. Capitol insurrection. Also, the conversation focused on how faith intersects with politics. Lastly, they honed in how to disrupt white supremacy culture and reuniting the nation.

Minister Satya Emanuel

Take On Faith – April 24, 2021

Minister Satya Emanuel is the guest on this Take On Faith episode. She/they is/are a Unitarian Universalist minister. Emanuel joined host Xolani Kacela for a lively discussion about the Day of Silence.

The Day of Silence honors LGBTQ people and their life struggles. Emanuel identifies as a bi/pan-sexual person. She is married and a mother of 3-month-old Ari. The conversation covered a variety of topics. They included how gender and sexual orientation intersect with spirituality and church life.

Emanuel shed light on ways non-LGBTQ people can support members in the LGBTQ community. She offered helpful and concrete examples. She (they) also unpacked some difficulties straight people have relating to LGBTQ folx, especially in spiritual communities.

Kacela and Emanuel had an in-depth conversation about the pronouns people use to identity themselves. They explored the importance of using pronouns in everyday life. Also, Emanuel distinguished between gender and sexual orientation and provided insight to help us navigate and create beloved community.

Rev. Joseph Hill

Take On Faith – April 10, 2021

Rev. Joseph Hill joined Rev. Carolyn Wilkins, your host, for a lively conversation. Hill serves as the Lead Pastor of Lordsburg Assembly Church. He also serves as the Director of Community Health & Education at National Center for Frontier Communities.

Hill and Wilkins discussed the opportunities for serving a rural community. They also delved into their social justice work on immigration and workers rights.

Bracha Goetz

Take On Faith – March 13, 2021

Bracha Goetz joined Xolani Kacela for an interesting talk about her book, Searching for God in the Garbage. Goetz wrote the book using her childhood writings and young adult journal.

The interview focused on her life dealing with an eating disorder, food addiction, and coming to grips with mental illness. Goetz shared her path to finding spirituality, her life’s purpose, and ancient wisdom she found in Orthodox Judaism. She joined Rev. XK from her home in Baltimore, MD.

From an interview with Bracha Goetz:

What are key elements that make a children’s book work?
Children love seeing pictures of children. They love funny illustrations with vibrant colors. They also love repetition, but take care—a children’s picture book shouldn’t be too didactic. The book Is it Shabbos Yet? by Ellen Emerman is full of repetition and so many wonderful messages—the kinds of preparation involved in making Shabbos, the joy of Shabbos and the bond between the mother and daughter.

My What Do You See? series [a word-and-picture book series for toddlers—What Do You See at Home?; What Do You See on Shabbos?, et cetera] subtly contains vital concepts, such as the need to express gratitude and include everyone in games. If the books are enjoyable, children don’t realize that they’re internalizing these messages. Lessons about simchah and giving, for example, are readily absorbed into a child’s neshamah.

Larry Yates

Take On Faith – March 6, 2021

Larry Yates joined guest host, Rev. Carolyn Wilkins, for an interesting interview about his life and religious journey. Yates, a close friend of Wilkins for years, serves in many capacities. Those include: life coach, business consultant, musician, artist, and author.

Interestingly, he talked about many innovative ways to view scripture. Significantly, he discussed music and religion impacted his journey. Importantly, they covered his humble beginning in Mississippi. Furthermore, they explored his path to becoming a Hollywood entertainment consultant.

Tune in for this episode of Take On Faith.

Julie Kramer

Take On Faith – February 27, 2021

Julie Kramer spends time with Rev. Xolani Kacela on this episode of Take On Faith. She is the author of two books, Discover Your Calling and her latest book, Grief to Gratitude. Kramer is an expert in hospital chaplaincy having spent time with over 10k patients. Today, we’ll hear her discuss her unique method of helping people work through personal grief and anxiety and how they can come out whole.

During the interview, Kramer discussed many aspects of her process of dealing with grief. Inspired by her reading the book Stages of Faith by Dr. James Fowler, Kramer learned how viewing and relating to people as going through stages of life, she could be less judgmental and empathic.

Importantly, Kramer helps people go through the grief process quickly. She does this using her personal form of spiritual direction. She also encourages people to listen to their heart and mind.

Please tune in to this inspiring conversation.

From Julie Kramer’s website:

Julie Kramer is a transformational coach, author and speaker. She is committed to using her background to expand awareness for people to transform themselves to achieve fulfillment. Her services help people become the hero of their own life story as they integrate lost parts of themselves.

Her life as an executive coach and search consultant led to success in high-tech start-ups, Fortune 500 companies, and venture capital firms. In the corporate world, she hired top talent for hundreds of high growth companies and coached over 1,000 people to advance, pivot, or change careers.

James Goi, Jr.

Take On Faith – February 20, 2021

James Goi, Jr. joined host, Xolani Kacela, for a conversation on Take On Faith from his home in San Diego, California. During the talk, Goi discussed his interesting faith journey. He grew up in a Catholic family in New Jersey and made his way to California as a young adult. Much of the conversation focused on his book, The New Normal.

During this episode of Take on Faith, Goi was reflective and engaging. He provided deep insights into how human beings live in the world using spirituality as a guide. He lives by his own principles developed over many years of study. Listeners will enjoy this conversation from KTAL-LP 101.5 FM from Las Cruces, NM.

From James Goi, Jr.’s website:

As this book is being published, the world is in the grasp of the 2020 Covid-19 crisis. The author and teacher James Goi Jr. was inspired to write this book to help people to take a step back, to take a deep breath, and to not add to the negative mental, emotional, and spiritual energy currently surrounding the planet.

This book will help you to rise above the current climate of fear, turmoil, sadness, and uncertainty. It will help you view what is going on right now from a higher vantage point. Also, from the view of one who is mentally stable, emotionally mature, and spiritually grounded. So, if you’ve found yourself pulled into the drama of this worldwide crisis and feel like you need a break from it, here it is.

From The New Normal:

You need your spiritual and meta-physical in-sight now more than ever. Dig deep. If—as the mystics have been telling us all along and the quantum [world] have now validated—life and so-called reality are much different from what the average human being has thought them to be since human beings have been around and right up until today, how does this current emergency change that? It doesn’t.

Rich Kirkpatrick

Take On Faith – February 13, 2021

Rich Kirkpatrick joined host, Xolani Kacela, for a conversation on Take On Faith from his home in Long Beach, California. During the talk, Kirkpatrick discussed his long and winding faith journey. He has been a member of several faith communities.

During this episode of Take on Faith, Kirkpatrick was lively and engaging. He provided a clear picture of how he hopes his music changes people and the world. Listeners will enjoy this conversation from KTAL-LP 101.5 FM from Las Cruces, NM.

Rich Kirkpatrick is the author of The Six Hats of the Worship Leader. His work focuses on building the life of the church. He consults with church leaders, coaching, and speaking. As a worship professional, Kirkpatrick serves in many roles. His specialty is taking worship leaders to the next level.

Currently, Kirkpatrick blogs at RKblog.com. He designed a guide for those interested in the creative process. It is called The Dream, The Sandbox, and the Story. The guide diagrams the creative process in great detail.

Later this year, Kirkpatrick plans to release his next book. In it, he explores creativity, brain science, and music.

Kirkpatrick speaks around the country as he trains worship leaders. As a musician, he is a songwriter and recording artist. He and his daughter, Emilie, form the group known as A Beautiful Liturgy.

About the Six Hats

Many church leadership books today seem to focus heavily on the language of the corporate world. Throw a creative worship leader into the mix and vertigo sets in for all involved. Why? Creative leaders simply think differently. The Six Hats shows you how to better explain your worship leadership to those in charge. For those whose role comprises leading worship leaders, the language shared in Kirkpatrick’s book aims to help you take your team to their next level.

Johana Bencomo and Abraham Sanchez

Take On Faith – February 6, 2021

Johana Bencomo, and Abraham Sanchez are guest this week. Bencomo is a Las Cruces City Councilwoman and Executive Director of NM CAFe. Abraham Sanchez is a Community Organizer with NM CAFe.

Rev. Carolyn Wilkins hosts this episode of Take On Faith broadcasts on KTAL-LP FM 101.5.

About NM Cafe:

We believe that our organization’s source of power comes from our base.

We believe that our base is made up of directly impacted people, people of faith deeply rooted in justice and each other, who will lead the fight to shift New Mexico politics.

We believe that our organizers and our leaders have a clear racial and economic analysis that informs our political imaginations.

We believe in a culture of formation, investment, and leadership development for our leaders, our staff, and our board of directors.

Faith based organizing serves people. NM CAFé aspires creates a supportive culture. We empower New Mexicans to act on their own. They deserve a better quality of life.

NM CAFé serves as a crucial actor in the political landscape in southern New Mexico. We create a “land of opportunity” by challenging our elected leaders. In turn, they put families’ needs and the common good of New Mexico first.

At the helm of our efforts, we have strong leaders. They play a pivotal role in healing the state. They restore people’s confidence in responsive government, which promotes opportunity for all.

Marla Goldberg

Take On Faith – January 30, 2021

Marla Goldberg, an energy healer, intuitive, speaker, and author speaks as guest. She joins host, Rev. Xolani Kacela, for this episode of Take On Faith. Goldberg discusses how her 14 healing modalities helped her overcome a difficult upbringing and abusive marriage.

During the program, Goldberg discussed her book, My F*cking Long Journey To Loving Myself: A Guide to a Shorter Path. Listeners learned her book aims to help people heal faster. According to Goldberg, she wants people to learn from her experience. Therefore, reading her book will expedite their journey.

Book excerpt:

I am confident that the TTTs that have helped me change
my life will assist you in doing the same. Consistency is the
key in any practice. These techniques need to be used regularly,
depending on what your focus is on, to really be of
benefit for you and your life. Look at it like a workout program.
If you exercise once a week or once a month, you
won’t see the changes you desire, but if you work out five to
six days a week, you will begin to see your body transform.

As a public speaker, Goldberg also leads workshops. She described her upcoming on-line workshop, which begins this week.

For those interested in her podcast, she hosts Guided Spirit Conversations.

Marla Goldberg discussed Spiritual Response. This is another way that she helps people heal. Interestingly, Goldberg explained how energy healing relates to science.

She joined us via the internet from her home near Charlotte, NC.

To contact Goldberg, email her at: marlagoldberghealer@gmail.com. Her website is https://www.marlagoldberrg.com/.

Rev. Don McCreary

Take On Faith – January 23, 2021

Rev. Don McCreary, today’s guest, retired from the Disciples of Christ (Christian Church). Before retirement, he served as CEO of Christian Church Homes of Northern California. During this episode, host Xolani Kacela, and Rev. McCreary discussed his work in low income and senior housing.

Uniquely, the show began with a brief tribute to their beloved friend, Winthrop “Win” Marshall. A spiritual man, Marshall died in late 2020 from complications related to diabetes.

An expert on housing, Rev. McCreary focused on how people find and pay for senior housing. Importantly, McCreary discussed why your housing costs should not exceed 30% of income.

During the conversation, Rev. McCreary explained the intricacies of living in low-cost senior housing and apartments. Also, McCreary provided keen insights on securing senior housing. He highlighted advantages of living in denomination-sponsored, independent apartment complexes.

Rev. McCreary described how seniors might go about finding affordable housing in their senior years. If you anticipate retirement or seek low-cost living, you’ll benefit from listening.

Bottom line, you don’t want to miss this show!

Rev. Don McCreary can be reached at dhmccreary@aol.com or +1 (816) 830-4099.

About Take On Faith

Take On Faith broadcasts on KTAL-LP FM 101.5 from Las Cruces, NM. The radio show airs on Saturdays at 10 am MT. Guests share perspectives on religious, spiritual, and metaphysical aspects of life.

Guests present their beliefs, ideas, and views. Frequently, xk’s guests discuss their books. Rev. xk’s guests include personalities from all faith traditions, denominations, and spiritual communities.

A Unitarian Universalist minister, Rev. “xk” does not discriminate against any faith group.

Once a month, the Rev. Carolyn Wilkins hosts the program. Rev. Wilkins is the spiritual leader for Inspirational Ministries in Las Cruces, NM. You can reach her at +1 (310) 801-9800 or revcwilkins@gmail.com.

Please send your suggestions for guests on Take On Faith. Email “xk” at xk@revdrxk.com. You can also phone xk at +1 (919) 949-2002.

Importantly, we seek clergy members, authors, or faith leaders. We’re especially interested in hosting people with unique viewpoints. If you fit that description, and are interested in being a guest on Take On Faith, please contact xk.

Fr. Gabrielle Rochelle

Take On Faith – January 16, 2021

Fr. Gabrielle Rochelle is the guest on this episode of Take On Faith, on KTAL-LP FM 101.5. Fr. Gabrielle is the pastor of the St. Anthony of the Desert, an Orthodox Christian mission in Las Cruces, NM. The parish is a mission of the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of the USA. Fr. Gabrielle and his wife, Pani Susan, founded the church in 2007. He also serves as a seminary and university professor.

Fr. Gabrielle and host Xolani Kacela discussed the Eastern Orthodox tradition and its place in the pantheon of Christianity. An expert in religion, he provided several insights to how faith and religion play into the ways our culture and politics is taking shape today. He also discussed how faith is experienced by millennials and those influenced by theories which refute science.

Fr. Gabrielle Rochelle can be reached at gabrielcroch@aol.com; 575-520-1916 (cell).

Tune in for a lively conversation.

Rev. Chuck Freeman

Take on Faith – January 9, 2021

Rev. Chuck Freeman, the Executive Director of the Texas Unitarian Universalist Justice Ministry (TXUUJM), is the guest on this episode. An expert in social justice ministries, he spoke candidly with guest host Rev. Carolyn Wilkins. Together, they took an in-depth look at the ways that faith intersects with legislation and social justice concerns.

Together, they explored Rev. Freeman’s work with TXUUJM and the impact of this ministry on local communities. Also, Freeman delved into his efforts to combat racism. A veteran in this work, he shared strategies for dismantling White supremacy in local government throughout Texas and beyond. Importantly, Freeman discussed current issues, such as the recent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and the forces that enabled that event. Freeman offered a primer on White supremacy and the societal forces that perpetuate it in American politics.

Rev. Freeman, an amicable person, spoke about the fruits of his interpersonal relationships. In particular, he illuminated the importance of building coalitions that cut across racial lines in the communities he serves. You’ll appreciate hearing how he models interfaith and anti racism in his work in Texas. For true insights, you won’t want to miss this conversation.

Tune in for a lively and informative conversation.