When we welcomed back Meta Herrick Carlson in December to discuss her children's book called We Remember Your Baptism, we never knew how much more timely her words would become by January.

Meta is a Minnesota pastor helping children understand and cherish their baptismal stories, which sounds simple until you realize how many of us have NO idea what our baptism even meant or why it matters. She worked with her illustrator Clara to create something that helps families hold onto these sacred moments in ways that actually stick.

But here's where the conversation gets deeper: We talked about what baptism means for community. What it means for her Minneapolis neighborhood right now. With ICE presence and everything else happening, the question isn't just "do you remember your baptism?" It's “Do you remember whose you are? And who's got you?"

Meta shares her unique pastoral experiences with baptism (and trust us, pastors have STORIES), and we dive into the importance of mutual aid, showing up for each other, and what it actually looks like to live into your baptismal promises when the world feels heavy.

This episode is about memory, yes. But it's also about belonging, community support, and the power of knowing you're claimed by God and by your people.

PREORDER META’S BOOK: https://www.beamingbooks.com/store/product/9798889836490/We-Remember-Your-Baptism

00:02 Meet the Guest: Meta Herrick Carlson

01:57 Meta’s New Book: We Remember Your Baptism

03:07 The Creative Process Behind the Book

05:48 Choosing the Right Illustrator

08:42 Personal Reflections on Baptism

13:13 The Power of Storytelling in Faith

15:17 Hope for the Book's Impact

15:38 Personal Reflections on Children's Books

16:55 Baptism Rituals and Traditions

18:32 Book Release and Promotions

20:53 Community and Social Justice

22:48 ICE Presence and Community Response

25:36 Faith and Social Responsibility

27:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts