As we head into the Lent this week, Brandon offers a reflection on the justice work that God calls us into and the opportunity to slow down, reflect and pray as we begin the approach to Easter. If you feel weary, burnt out or frustrated and are looking for a reminder of who God is and how we can connect into the everlasting grace that sustains, please join for a listen.

Resources and Links from the Show

Brandon's Top Worship Song for Lent : Where Would I Go? by Micah Dalton

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Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

A multitude of orphanages in the Global South continue to be supported by well-meaning Christians throughout the world. Research and scripture both indicate that God's design for children is to grow up in a family, but what do we do when it's the church that needs to be convinced of this? Brandon Stiver is joined today by Tony Lewry who shares his experience in orphan care and cross-cultural ministry over the years as we dive into what it looks like to change mindsets and practices in these global chains of care. Tony leads The Homecoming Project and coordinates across a coalition of organizations tackling the issue of children outside of parental care. In our conversation, Tony and Brandon discuss the evolution of family-based care, the challenges and successes of implementing foster care, and the vital role of the church in advocating for vulnerable children.

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Resources and Links from the Show

The Homecoming Project Online

The Homecoming Project Instagram

Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

03:00 Introduction to Tony Lewry and His Journey
05:56 The Evolution of Family-Based Care in Brazil
09:13 Challenges and Successes in Implementing Foster Care
11:57 The Role of the Church in Foster Care Advocacy
14:54 Reintegration and Community Support for Children
17:54 Navigating Reentry to the UK
20:52 The Homecoming Project: History and Vision
23:47 Collaborative Efforts in Care Reform
27:03 Addressing the Funding Dilemma in Child Care
30:05 Engaging with Orphanage Supporters
32:59 The Coalition Approach and Its Impact
36:11 Next Steps for the Homecoming Project
39:08 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License

This US capture of Nicolás Maduro presents a range of considerations and reflections across international law, humanitarian needs and diplomacy in the Western Hemisphere. This episode delves into the complex political landscape of Venezuela, focusing on the historical context leading to the rise of Nicolás Maduro and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Brandon Stiver is joined by a former Venezuelan Ambassador, Alejandro Martinez Ubieda and Global Studies educator Dr. Greg Burch to discuss the implications of Maduro's capture, the corruption and human rights violations under his regime, and the potential for a democratic transition in Venezuela. They also explore the role of international relations and U.S. involvement in shaping the future of the country, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and humanitarian support for Venezuelans both at home and abroad.

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Resources and Links from the show

Human Rights Watch : Venezuela

UN Human Rights Council : Venezuela

NBC Portland : Former Venezuelan ambassador living in Oregon calls Maduro arrest a long-awaited step toward democracy

Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

• 05:00 The Context of Venezuela's Political Landscape
• 08:05 Chávez's Rise and the Shift to Authoritarianism
• 10:42 Maduro's Ascendancy and Human Rights Violations
• 13:48 The Humanitarian Crisis and International Reactions
• 16:44 Celebration and Concerns Over Maduro's Capture
• 29:34 The Venezuelan Migration Crisis
• 35:22 The Future of Venezuela Post-Maduro
• 40:25 Ethics of U.S. Intervention in Venezuela
• 47:12 Hope for Democratic Elections in Venezuela
• 51:19 Final Thoughts on Venezuelan Resilience

Theme music Kirk Osamayo. Free Music Archive, CC BY License