# "Because": A Long Obedience Toward Multicultural Faith Lessons from Broadway United Methodist

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/to-be-and-do-with-philip-amerson-7105720/because-a-long-obedience-toward-multicultural-faith-lessons-from-broadway-united-methodist
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/to-be-and-do-with-philip-amerson-7105720/because-a-long-obedience-toward-multicultural-faith-lessons-from-broadway-united-methodist.md
Podcast: ["To Be And Do" with Philip Amerson](https://stenobird.com/podcast/to-be-and-do-with-philip-amerson-7105720)
Published: 2026-04-06T10:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://belonging-exchange.captivate.fm/episode/because-a-long-obedience-toward-multicultural-faith-lessons-from-broadway-united-methodist
Audio file: https://episodes.captivate.fm/episode/fe8c9cb3-8d2c-4f5b-9220-7a1889fbd9ba.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/to-be-and-do-with-philip-amerson-7105720/episodes/because-a-long-obedience-toward-multicultural-faith-lessons-from-broadway-united-methodist
Duration seconds: 327

## Resource

In this reflective "Because" episode of To Be and Do , Phil Amerson revisits a pivotal period serving as pastor at Broadway United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, sharing personal anecdotes and hard-earned wisdom about building a truly welcoming church community. Weaving together Biblical references, personal stories, and social observations, the episode confronts the realities and aspirations involved in embracing multiculturalism—both in faith communities and society at large. Key Themes 1. The Challenge and Commitment of Multicultural Community Phil highlights the ambitious and intentional mission statement adopted by Broadway United Methodist Church in 1986: to become a multicultural Christian community that seeks, welcomes, and values all people. This brings out a theme of aspiration versus lived reality. Despite admitting their naivety in striving for such ideals celebrates the commitment to inclusivity that has endured for 40 years , even as the community grappled with hard lessons and social challenges. 2. Confronting the Power of Fear and Tribalism The episode does not shy away from acknowledging the forces that undermine multicultural efforts. Speaker B discusses how tribalism, fear, and resentment have historically eroded goodwill—not just within their church, but across society and global alliances . In one vivid example , manifestations of discrimination and bigotry are likened to masked ICE agents in urban America, underscoring the persistent threats to genuine inclusion. Yet, the congregation’s mission remains a countercultural witness to God’s love for all neighbors . 3. The Enduring Value of Hope and Long-Term Faithfulness Despite setbacks and societal cynicism, Phil questions whether such aspirations are truly naive. Drawing from the teachings of Pa…

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