#90: Faith and Justice: Lessons from Ferguson with Rev. F. Willis Johnson

Explore the intersection of faith and justice with the Rev. F. Willis Johnson, a pastor who led his church through racial tensions in Ferguson, Missouri.

In this compelling episode of the Pivot Podcast, hosts Dwight Zscheile and Terri Elton welcome the Rev. F. Willis Johnson, who shares his experiences leading a church in Ferguson, Missouri during times of racial unrest. Willis offers a practical guide on how churches can actively engage in justice work, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, local relevance, and concrete action. Listeners will discover how to “hold up their corner” in community transformation and why new expressions of faith are crucial in addressing today’s social challenges.

Willis challenges church leaders to move beyond their comfort zones, embracing curiosity and openness in engaging with diverse communities. He provides insights on reimagining church for the 21st century, where faith and justice are inextricably linked. This episode is essential listening for church leaders, social justice advocates, and anyone seeking to understand how faith communities can effectively contribute to creating a more just and equitable society. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to put your faith into action in meaningful, community-centered ways.

Show Notes:

Featuring

F. Willis Johnson

Rev. F. Willis Johnson

F. Willis Johnson currently leads Living Tree Church in Columbus Ohio. Prior to starting Living Tree, he was senior minister of Wellspring Church in Ferguson, Missouri, where thousands have been influenced by his prophetic, faith-filled reflections and strategies on social justice and racial understanding. He counsels bishops, general board agencies, conferences, and local churches across the country. He has also served in professional ministry in Indiana and North Carolina for the last 15 years. Johnson’s writing and lecturing credits range from TIME Magazine, National Public Radio, universities, and seminaries to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History Culture. He has been adjunct faculty at Drew Theological School, Methodist Theological School of Ohio, and Eden Theological Seminary.

Meet Your Hosts

  • Terri Elton

    Terri is a teacher who loves Jesus and God’s world. She currently is a Professor of Leadership and Dean of Academic Affairs at Luther Seminary, but has also served in congregations and non-profit settings. In her free time, Terri loves to bike and explore nature. She, along with her husband Eric, believes the world is interesting and together they travel to different cultures and places as often as they can.

  • Dwight Zscheile

    Dwight Zscheile is vice president of innovation and professor of congregational mission and leadership at Luther Seminary. His latest book is Leading Faithful Innovation: Following God into a Hopeful Future (with Michael Binder and Tessa Pinkstaff, Fortress Press, 2023).

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