Riana Shaw Robinson (Part 2): Moving Away from Transactional Church and Honoring Our Identity

Summary

In this conversation, Jon Pyle and Riana Shaw Robinson discuss the challenges faced by women and people of color in the church. They talk about the transactional nature of the church and the pressure to compromise one's identity for belonging. Riana shares her experience of being a co-creator with God and the importance of patience in birthing something new. They also discuss the need for non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups and the tension that arises from that. Riana emphasizes the importance of listening to and receiving the stories of others with gratitude. In this conversation, Riana Shaw Robinson discusses the importance of creating safe spaces for marginalized communities and the power of community support. She shares her experiences at Miriam's Song, a church community that welcomes and uplifts women of color. Riana emphasizes the need for inclusivity and acceptance in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies. She also highlights the significance of self-care and joy in the midst of challenging times. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of community and the importance of creating spaces where everyone feels seen, held, and loved.

Takeaways

The church can be transactional and often pressures individuals to compromise their identity for belonging.

The Holy Spirit is creative and invites individuals to co-create something new with God.

Non-conventional communities that cater to specific groups can provide a sense of belonging and empowerment.

It is important to listen to and receive the stories of others with gratitude. Creating safe spaces for marginalized communities is essential for their well-being and flourishing.

Inclusivity and acceptance should be prioritized in religious spaces, challenging traditional boundaries and hierarchies.

Self-care and joy are important for maintaining resilience and finding strength in challenging times.

Community support and affirmation are transformative and can help individuals feel seen, held, and loved.

Chapters

00:00 The Struggle of Women of Color in Church Spaces

01:33 Transactional Relationships in Church

03:01 Identity and Belonging

03:57 Navigating Progressive Spaces

04:50 Challenging Traditional Christianity

05:30 Receiving Others' Stories

06:36 Creating Inclusive Spaces

07:35 Listening and Learning

08:39 Accepting Truths

09:29 Unconventional Approaches

10:47 Creating Safe Spaces

11:46 The Importance of Boundaries

12:28 Trusting God's Guidance

14:08 The Power of Women's Gatherings

14:39 Unconventional as Conventional

15:37 Creating Safe Spaces for Marginalized Communities

16:40 Finding Joy in Sunshine

23:31 Supporting Miriam's Song

26:53 Outro Video.mp4