Summary
In this episode, Matt interviews Dawn Dickerson-Leger, a pastor and Ph.D. candidate, about her deconstruction journey and experiences in the Anglican Church. Dawn shares her background in evangelical Christianity and her transition to a more progressive faith. She discusses her exploration of Anglicanism and the appeal of its mystical traditions. Dawn also addresses the power structures within the church and the challenges of maintaining a balance between tradition and progress. She highlights the importance of community and finding resonance in one's faith. This conversation explores the power and impact of online community, specifically focusing on the experience of Harbor, an online spiritual community. The conversation highlights the transformational nature of online connections and the deep sense of community and wisdom found in virtual spaces. It also delves into co-creation with God and the importance of following our desires in finding our true calling. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the potential for growth, connection, and spiritual exploration in online communities.
Takeaways
Deconstruction involves critically examining the power structures and toxic theologies within one's faith.
Anglicanism offers a wide tent for different belief systems and provides space for growth and change.
The church's slow response to issues like clerical abuse and residential schools raises questions about its commitment to protecting the vulnerable.
Finding community and resonance in faith can be a transformative experience, even outside of traditional institutional structures. Online communities can provide a powerful sense of connection, support, and wisdom.
Virtual spaces can foster deep spiritual growth and exploration.
Co-creation with God is a fundamental aspect of our calling as human beings.
Following our desires and engaging in activities that bring us joy can lead us to our true calling.
Notes
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Name Mishap
01:11 Introducing Dawn Dickerson-Leger
02:27 Faith Change and Church Leadership
03:32 Appreciating the Beauty of the East Coast
04:51 Nature Photography and Wildlife Encounters
05:59 Deer and Geese Encounters
07:32 Deer and Geese Encounters (Continued)
08:55 Name Mishaps and Goose Stories
09:26 Previous Episode with Harbor Online
10:46 Deconstruction Stories and Backgrounds
11:41 Dawn's Background in Evangelical Christianity
12:27 Exploring Anglicanism and Faith Change
13:55 Challenging Conservative Ideology
16:01 Discovering Bisexuality and Progressive Ideals
17:46 Friendship with a Gay Couple
19:17 Living with a Gay Couple and Expanding Perspectives
21:26 Exploring Anglicanism and Mysticism
23:25 Deconstructing Anglicanism and Power Structures
25:47 Understanding Deconstruction in Anglicanism
27:00 Navigating Same-Sex Marriage Debates
29:42 Addressing Clerical Abuse and Residential Schools
35:19 Retirement from Parish Ministry and Renewed Perspective
38:36 Balancing the Good and Bad in the Church
41:38 Finding Community and Mysticism in Harbor Online
43:34 Discovering Harbor
44:02 Expectations vs. Reality
44:40 The Power of Online Community
45:38 The Realness of Online Community
46:05 The Undeniable Experience
46:59 The Transformational Weekend
48:07 Criticizing the Institution vs. Embracing Mysticism
49:39 Moving Forward and Making Things Better
50:23 The Miracle at Stony Point
52:25 The Theology of Co-Creation
57:34 God's Presence in Creativity
01:05:24 Following Our Desires
Episode 5 - Deconstruction, Anglican-Style: Dawn Dickieson-Leger