Simply Christian LIFE with Bishop Michael Hunn

The Simply Christian LIFE podcast is for the spiritually curious - everyone seeking God or a deeper relationship with God. It’s about living simply, loving God, and loving our neighbors. It’s about deepening the roots and broadening the reach of our faith. It’s about spiritual practices like parenting, prayer, nonviolent communication, embracing diversity and permaculture gardening. Simply Christian LIFE is hosted by Michael Buerkel Hunn, who is the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande, which includes New Mexico and the far west part of Texas.

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Episodes

Friday Jan 31, 2025

What Christian Leadership Looks Like.... with Bishop Michael Hunn Join Michael Hunn, the Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Rio Grande, as he delves into the essence of Christian leadership. He emphasizes the importance of following the teachings of Jesus, particularly the Golden Rule, and embodying these principles in everyday actions. Through practical examples and reflections, Bishop Hunn highlights how Christian leaders should serve others, exhibit kindness and mercy, and foster community. He also touches on the challenges within our political system and the potential for the Christian faith to bring about transformative listening and compassion. Stay tuned for the next video, where Bishop Hunn will discuss the topic of forgiveness in the Christian tradition.
00:00 Introduction and Greetings
00:20 Foundations of Christian Leadership
01:36 The Golden Rule in Practice
02:09 Practical Examples of Kindness
04:33 Contrasting Leadership Styles
06:19 The Struggle Within
07:50 Hope for Compassionate Dialogue
10:41 Conclusion and Next Steps

Saturday Jan 25, 2025

The President met a Bishop this week...Navigating Church and Society: A Message from Bishop Michael Hunn
In this insightful message, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande discusses the diverse reactions within the Episcopal community to recent political events and a controversial sermon at Washington National Cathedral. Bishop Hunn delves into the significance of the separation of church and state, the role of the church in societal dialogue, and what it means to be part of the Episcopal Church. He emphasizes the importance of mercy, compassion, and respect for all, inviting everyone to participate in creating a beloved community.
00:00 Introduction and Context
01:16 Addressing the Diversity of Opinions
03:28 Church and State: A Historical Perspective
04:47 The Role of the Church in Society
08:05 The Story of Bishop Ambrose
10:54 Expectations in the Episcopal Church
15:40 A Call for Unity and Compassion
19:27 Conclusion and Blessings

Meet Fr. James Brzezinski

Saturday Jan 18, 2025

Saturday Jan 18, 2025

Weekly Update - Highlighting the Annual Leadership Retreat and a Special Introduction to Father James Brzezinski In this week's update for the third week of Epiphany 2025, we are introduced to Father James Brzezinski, the new rector of Grace Episcopal Church in Carlsbad, New Mexico. Additionally, the episode covers the recent annual Leadership Retreat of the Diocese, held at Prude Ranch in Fort Davis, Texas, with visits to local churches and organizations. Key topics include the challenges faced by Border Patrol agents, the concept of Migration with Dignity, (Tool kit here: https://bit.ly/40mSZxr ) and the Oxford Movement's influence on contemporary church practices. Don't miss a detailed dive into the traditions and activities at seminaries like Nashota House, explaining the significance of Anglican vestments, worship practices, and the importance of bringing Christ to the community.
00:00 Weekly Update Introduction
00:32 Diocesan Leadership Retreat Recap
01:08 Exploring the Big Bend
04:09 Migration with Dignity Week
05:22 Meet Father James Brzezinski
06:08 Life at Nashota House Seminary
22:45 High Church vs. Low Church
26:59 The Oxford Movement and Clerical Attire
35:12 Unity in Diversity

Sunday Dec 08, 2024

Welcome to the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the second week of Advent 2024. In this episode, we provide key announcements including the upcoming open house at Bishop's Ridge and guidance on subscribing to the diocesan newsletter. The highlight is an insightful interview with Bishop Anne Ritonia, the Episcopal Bishop for the Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, and U.S. Navy Chaplain Jamal Scarlett. They discuss the role and significance of military chaplaincy, the responsibilities and challenges faced by chaplains, and how local churches can support military personnel and their families. Tune in to learn more about the profound impact of chaplaincy and community support.
00:00 Welcome and Weekly Announcements00:39 Introduction to Military Chaplaincy01:10 Upcoming Events and Email Updates02:08 Interview with Bishop Anne Ritonia and Chaplain Jamal Scarlett02:30 Bishop Anne Ritonia on Military Chaplaincy05:37 Chaplain Jamal Scarlett's Journey and Role10:34 Daily Life and Challenges of a Navy Chaplain25:17 Supporting Military Personnel and Families28:32 Connecting Local Churches with Military Communities39:06 Gratitude and Reflections43:59 Closing Remarks and Blessings

Saturday Nov 23, 2024

Exploring St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM: A Rich History and Vibrant Community Join Bishop Michael Hunn and the Rev. Simon Carian as they delve into the rich history and vibrant community of St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM. Discover the town's origins as a railroad hub, its agricultural and dairy economy, and the presence of Cannon Air Force Base. Learn about the diverse ministry efforts—including community outreach, bilingual services, and unique events like the Blessing of the Animals and Chili Day— that make St. James a welcoming and active part of Clovis. Don't miss the stories of creative initiatives like the Hartley House purse drive, all aimed at strengthening the local community. Whether you're visiting Clovis or part of the diocese, St. James offers a warm welcome and a rich tradition of service and faith.
00:00 Welcome to St. James Episcopal Church
00:47 Discovering Clovis, New Mexico
02:19 The Agricultural and Military Influence in Clovis
04:41 The Heart of St. James Community
06:33 Reviving Traditions and New Celebrations
10:25 Blessing of the Animals
16:03 Community Outreach Initiatives
18:28 Introducing Bilingual Services
21:48 Understanding the Needs of the Spanish-Speaking Community
23:53 Conclusion and Invitation

A Solemn Veteran’s Day

Saturday Nov 09, 2024

Saturday Nov 09, 2024

A Solemn Veterans Day with Bishop Michael Hunn Bishop Michael Hunn invites the Diocese of the Rio Grande to observe Veterans Day, honoring those who served and remembering those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. He highlights a special film screening of 'Apache Blues Welcome Home,' a documentary about the Apache Troop's experiences during and after the Vietnam War. The event will take place at the Cathedral of St. John in Albuquerque on November 11th at 6:30 PM. Bishop Hunn also offers a heartfelt prayer for those in the armed forces, urging a collective hope for a world free of war.
 
Www.apachebluesfilm.com
 
00:00 Introduction and Veterans Day Invitation
00:08 History and Significance of Veterans Day
00:42 Diocese of Rio Grande's Support and Film Screening
01:21 Details of the Film 'Apache Blues Welcome Home'
01:48 Special Thanks and Film Trailer Information
02:03 Prayer for Armed Forces
02:39 Closing Remarks and Blessings

Tuesday Nov 05, 2024

72nd Diocesan Convention: Strengthening the Future of the Episcopal Church in Rio Grande
Join us as we dive into the 72nd Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, featuring insights from St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians. Bishop Michael Hunn shares reflections from his travels and discusses the unique challenges faced by the diocese. Learn about the importance of supporting small congregations, our shared values of liturgy, inclusivity, and tradition, and the detailed findings from Phase One of the diocese’s strategic project. Discover our new youth and family programs, campus ministries, and the strength of our relationships with neighboring dioceses and the wider church. This video emphasizes the critical need for transparency, collaboration, and leveraging our generosity to ensure the thriving of the Episcopal Church throughout New Mexico and far West Texas.
00:00 Welcome to the 72nd Diocesan Convention
00:10 Reflections on St. Paul's Letter to the Corinthians
01:11 Visiting the Eastern Part of New Mexico
03:17 Challenges Facing Our Episcopal Churches
04:52 Phase One: Understanding Our Episcopal Identity
06:39 Shared Values: Liturgy, Inclusivity, and Tradition
10:08 Community Outreach and Social Justice
10:57 Supporting Our Clergy and Transparent Communication
16:02 Youth and Family Programs
20:03 Partnerships Beyond Our Diocese
30:49 Financial Transparency and Future Planning
39:18 Paul's Metaphor of the Body and Our Diocese
42:36 Conclusion: Strengthening Relationships for the Future

Saturday Nov 02, 2024

All Together Now! Reimagining Church: Strategic Intentions, Fractals, and Flocking
In this fourth episode of our mini-series on reimagining the Episcopal Church, we delve into how integrating strategic intention, fractals, and flocking can transform our communal and relational dynamics. The discussion highlights the importance of shifting from individualism to a collective mindset, ensuring that we thrive together at every level—individuals, congregations, and dioceses. By fostering interconnectedness and shared resources, we can embody the teachings of Jesus Christ and the early church as depicted in the book of Acts, working collaboratively to face future challenges.
00:00 Introduction to Reimagining Church00:26 Strategic Intention and Relational Shift01:42 Commitment to Thriving at Every Level03:56 Flocking Together for Strength and Resources08:32 Challenges and Opportunities for Small and Large Churches10:53 A Vision for Collaborative Ministry14:43 Conclusion and Call to Action

Sunday Oct 27, 2024

Weekly Update: Roswell Relief, Election Guidance & Diocesan Convention In this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, we extend our thoughts to those affected by flooding in Roswell and discuss the diocese's collaboration with Episcopal Relief and Development. As the presidential election approaches, we offer guidance for maintaining peace and community trust, including tips on faith, responsible voting, and managing media consumption. Also featured are updates on the upcoming Diocesan Convention and the exciting 'Episco Disco' silent dance party. Stay informed and connected during these challenging times.
00:00 Weekly Update Introduction
00:19 Roswell Flooding Crisis
02:15 Diocesan Convention Preview
02:28 Election Season Reflections
05:13 Promoting Peace and Stability
07:10 Bishop's Tips for Election Season
08:31 Encouraging Trust in Our Communities
09:47 Managing Media Consumption
10:41 Prioritizing Self-Care and Prayer
12:06 Episco Disco: A Silent Dance Party
14:19 Diocesan Convention Updates
15:56 Weekly Update Conclusion

Saturday Oct 19, 2024

The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest…
 
In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn applies the concept of 'flocking' as described by adrienne maree brown in her book 'Emerging Strategy’ to live in the Episcopal Church.  By examining how birds, bees, and fish use flocking for defense, energy conservation, and resource finding, the video draws parallels to church congregations. It proposes an innovative approach where each church member focuses on connecting with the seven people nearest to them, fostering a deeper, more connected community. The idea extends to diocesan levels, encouraging clergy and church leaders to maintain regular, intentional connections with their peers. This transformative model aims to strengthen the church's unity and efficacy, aligning with early Christian practices.
 
00:00 Introduction to Flocking
01:02 Flocking in Nature
01:33 Flocking and Energy Conservation
02:00 Flocking for Resource Finding
02:51 Applying Flocking to Church
03:00 The Seven Connections Concept
04:01 Implementing the Concept in Congregations
05:56 Diocesan Level Connections
07:53 Broader Implications and Conclusion
09:10 Preview of Next Video

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