As we start 2026, we should be asking how to join the things that God is already doing. Where is he moving and how do we join such movements? Our old friend Craig Greenfield returns to the show to discuss the growth and impact of Alongsiders International, a movement focused on discipleship and mentorship for vulnerable children. He emphasizes the importance of contextualizing ministry in diverse cultures and how the challenges of consumerism in Western churches can inhibit true discipleship. Craig discusses the unique role that young people are playing throughout the world including with Gen Z protests that are toppling unjust countries or subverting contexts that are hostile to the Christianity. No better way to start off the new year than to have Craig encourage all of us to engage with God's heart for justice and to seek transformative relationships that reflect the teachings of Jesus.

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Resources and Links from the show

Alongsiders International Online

Craig Greenfield Online

Subversive Jesus by Craig Greenfield

Subversive Mission by Craig Greenfield

Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

• The Alongsiders movement has seen remarkable growth since COVID, expanding to 30 countries.
• Perspective is crucial for understanding global needs and God's work.
• Discipleship should happen in everyday life, not just in church settings.
• Contextualization is key to make culturally relevant materials.
• Success in mentorship is seen when young people become mentors themselves.
• Discipleship can thrive even in hostile environments by going under the radar and sustaining the local church.
• Affluence in the West hinders true discipleship and community connection.
• Prayer is foundational in building relationships and supporting one another.
• Learning from other movements can inspire and inform our own practices.
• Gen Z political movements for justice are important to consider.
• True movements are transformational and driven by passion, not hype.

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

In this episode of Think Global, Do Justice, Brandon Stiver and Dr. Laura Horvath critically analyze the Netflix documentary 'Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within.' They discuss the portrayal of orphanages, the commodification of children, and the importance of family and community in child welfare. The conversation highlights the need for systemic change in how society addresses the needs of vulnerable children, emphasizing that the core deprivation of orphans is not just lack of resources, but lack of family connections. After the interview, Brandon shares a few podcast updates as we wrap up 2025.

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Resources and Links from the show

Dr. Laura Horvath on Substack

Masaka Kids: A Rhythm Within on IMDB

YouTube for Canopy International

Become a Sponsor of Think Global, Do Justice

Conversation Notes (AI Generated)

• The documentary presents a rosy picture of orphanages, ignoring systemic issues.
• The film commodifies children's talents for fundraising purposes.
• Family-based care is essential for children's well-being.
• The documentary fails to interrogate the root causes of family separation.
• Dancing and performing do not address the emotional and relational needs of children.
• The focus should be on supporting families rather than institutionalizing children.
• Critical analysis of media representations is necessary for informed advocacy.
• Attention to media content can influence funding and support for orphanages.

In this enlightening episode, Brandon Stiver is joined by Albert Chen, who is the cofounder and CEO of Anago. The two discuss the profound impact of AI on Christian nonprofits. Albert shares his journey from community development in Mexico to the tech world and emphasizes the interconnectedness of global issues with the ethical considerations surrounding AI development. Albert demystifies AI, explaining the differences between machine learning and generative AI, and offers practical applications for nonprofits. He introduces the concept of Redemptive AI, advocating for its ethical use to benefit the global majority. The conversation concludes with a call for Christian organizations to engage thoughtfully with AI, ensuring it enhances their mission rather than detracts from it.

Podcast Sponsors

Take the free Core Elements Self-Assessment from the CAFO Research Center and tap into online courses with discount code 'TGDJ25'

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Resources and Links from the show

Anago.ai Online

Praxis : A Redemptive Thesis for Artificial Intelligence

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Conversation Notes

• Introduction to AI and Its Impact on Nonprofits (2:30)
• Albert's Journey through ministry and tech (5:22)
• Understanding Global Interconnectedness (8:21)
• The Role of Technology in Community Development (11:23)
• Demystifying AI: Machine Learning vs. Generative AI (14:27)
• Ethical Considerations in AI Development (17:20)
• Navigating AI as a Christian Nonprofit Leader (20:39)
• The Role of AI in Nonprofit Organizations (32:54)
• Augmentation vs. Automation in Nonprofits (38:20)
• Christian Hope and Responsibility in the Age of AI (43:24)

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