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State of Belief
Black History Month In the Time of Trump: Rev. Jacqui Lewis
It’s Black History Month - and in this week’s episode of The State of Belief, Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis—activist, theologian, and all-around powerhouse—joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush for a deep and inspiring conversation about faith, activism, and the lessons we can draw from Black history and the Black Church. They explore how the fight for racial justice is far from over and how spiritual and community leaders play a key role in pushing for change.
Rev. Jacqui shares her own journey, rooted in the Civil Rights Movement, and highlights how Black history continues to shape today’s social justice movements. She talks about the power of faith to bring people together and break down systems of oppression, reminding us that love, equity, and unity should be at the heart of our communities. She also delivers a powerful message about welcoming and caring for immigrants, emphasizing that faith calls us to love the stranger—because, at some point, we were all strangers in a new place.
The conversation also highlights the 2025 Freedom Rising Conference, which will bring together an incredible list of faith and civic leaders Oct. 31 - Nov. 2, offering spiritual and strategic inspiration under the banner of “The Fierce Urgency of Now.” Paul and Jacqui also touch on her forthcoming book, The Just Love Story Bible for families and children. That’s due out in September.
Rev. Dr. Jacqui Lewis is the senior minister at Middle Collegiate Church in NYC, where she leads a diverse, inclusive congregation. With an MDiv from Princeton and a PhD in psychology and religion, Rev. Jacqui is committed to creating a world free from racism, gun violence, and discrimination—where everyone is truly welcomed and has enough.
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Ray Kirstein is the Producer of the State of Belief podcast.
A Pastor Reports from the Frontlines In Los Angeles: Faith and Immigration
This week on The State of Belief, an inspiring conversation with Rev. Noel Andersen, the National Field Director for Church World Service and a dedicated advocate for immigrant rights. In this episode, he joins host Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to delve into the pressing issues surrounding immigration enforcement, the role of faith communities, and the ongoing fight for justice in the face of adversity. Here are three key takeaways that stand out:
Leah Greenberg, Indivisible, and No Kings: "You do not need permission to get started"
This week on The State of Belief – getting ready for No Kings Day on June 14th, an initiative of the national grassroots organization Indivisible. Co-founder Leah Greenberg explains that No Kings Day is a forceful nationwide response to the royal pretensions on display in Donald Trump's demand for a multi-million dollar military parade on his 79th birthday. Leah joins Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush to discuss the importance of getting involved rather than discouraged, share past Indivisible successes and lessons learned, and the essential role faith leaders and communities play in giving credibility to public actions like this.
Jim Wallis and a Moral Budget: The June 10th Procession at the Capitol
A powerful conversation with Rev. Jim Wallis. We dive deep into his upcoming event on June 10th at the Capitol, A Pentecost Witness for a Moral Budget, which aims to address critical issues surrounding the Reconciliation Bill and its potential cuts to vital programs like Medicaid and SNAP.