22. Forming Our Theology as we Form our Families with Shannan Martin

 
 
 

Overview

As the mother of four children who joined her family through adoption, Shannan Martin shares how loving and walking alongside the marginalized of her community not only revolutionized her faith, but also made her an unapologetic ally with those who are negatively impacted by the U.S. prison system.

Shannan, whose husband is a chaplain in their local jail, shares what she has learned by living with and loving the incarcerated. In this episode, you’ll hear about how Shannan accesses the promise of the Gospel through the lives of her neighbors. Be sure to read Shannan’s books or sign up for her Substack for more conversations like this.

“God reveals himself through people who have struggled in ways that I have not necessarily struggled.”

“We don't need to lead with the assumption that because somebody is incarcerated, they need God or that they don't in some way already have a close relationship with God.”

“I think we are missing a true and full picture of who God is and how God loves us.”

Episode Highlights

1:52 - Introduction to Shannan Martin

6:28 - Critical lessons in community

11:05 - Stories of injustice in the justice system

25:20 - Shannan’s views on involvement in government

31:07 - What is the Church in America missing?

36:09 - Trauma, marginalization, and the relationship to the justice system

40:33 - Resources and learning more

Links

⁠⁠⁠⁠Kindred Exchange⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Become a monthly donor to support this show and our mission

⁠⁠⁠⁠Think Orphan ⁠⁠⁠⁠- Learn more and listen to the podcast

Emmaus House - Learn more about their work with orphaned youth in Haiti

Start with Hello - Shannan’s latest book

The Ministry of Ordinary Places - by Shannan Martin

Falling Free - by Shannan Martin

Death Row Support Project - Sign up to mail letters

Connect with Lauren

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Connect with Shannan

Instagram⁠ / X⁠ / Website

 
 
 
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23. A Mother’s Ethical Journey to IVF with Ansley Smith

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21. Reimagining the U.S. Justice System Informed By Survivors of Childhood Trauma with Cyntoia Brown Long