Proverbs 9:1-6
Psalm 34:9-14	
Ephesians 5:15-20	
John 6:51-58

Proper 15 Wisdom

This month, the Academy Podcast features Juan Carlos Huertas' teaching from Academy #42 in 2023 on the topic, "Attentiveness to the Word." In this episode, Huertas dives into the rich world of prophetic literature, exploring how the ancient texts of the Bible connect to the realities of our lives today, emphasizing how scripture mirrors modern challenges in justice, leadership, and kinship. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that invites us to engage more deeply with scripture, justice, and our role in building a more equitable and loving world.


Juan Carlos describes himself as a follower of Jesus, husband, dad, spiritual director, and pastor. Currently he is Minister of Proclamation and Practice of Justice at First-Plymouth Congregational Church in Lincoln, NE. Previously, Juan Carlos was the pastor of Grace Community United Methodist Church in Shreveport, Louisiana. Juan says what God has called him to do in his ministry is, “To work as Jesus would have us work to make a difference in our community, to work together for peace and justice.” Juan is married to Shannon Perry Huertas and they have three children, Seth, Isabelle, & Lucas. For more information, go to https://www.firstplymouth.org/juan-carlos-huertas.

JOIN US

We're excited to announce that the next Two-Year Academy begins November 2, 2025. A website and online application for Academy #43 will be available in the very near future. If you want to be one of the first to know when registration is open, please complete this simple form to give us your name and contact information so that we can inform you as soon as the application is ready. Link to Form: https://forms.gle/X63WN8RHtAvLDWLL7

Show Notes:

Episode tracks: “Far Side of the Sea,” “Versailles,” and “Fearless” by Amy Stroup, used with permission.

For more information and resources visit: academy.upperroom.org/resources

Support Our Work
If the Academy Podcast or any of the ministries of The Academy for Spiritual Formation have benefited your life and spirituality, please consider making a one-time or monthly donation to show your support. You can learn more about how your gifts make a difference at https://academy.upperroom.org/donate/

Attentiveness to the Word with Juan Carlos Huertas

This month, the Academy Podcast features Molly Vetter's teaching from Academy #42 in 2023 on the topic, "Spirituality and Embodiment." In this episode, Molly Vetter reflects on the intersection of scripture, art, and spirituality, inviting listeners to see how sacred traditions and personal experiences converge in daily life.

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that invites us to see our faith embodied in everyday life, to find the sacred in art and community, and to live faithfully—even when it challenges institutional norms.

Rev. Molly Vetter is passionate about many things: building community with unlikely and diverse people, making the church more boldly welcoming, and caring for the earth. Since 2019, she has served as Senior Pastor of Westwood United Methodist Church in Los Angeles, a congregation with a rich legacy of thoughtful engagement on social issues and incredible worship gatherings in which to connect to the grace and mystery of our God. Molly received her Masters of Divinity from Claremont School of Theology and studied Art History for undergrad at Boston University. In her personal and professional life, she loves planning events and trips, and enjoys experiencing them, too. She loves designing and making things, especially out of fabric or food or the internet. Outside of the local church, Molly has served in several leadership roles in the broader United Methodist Church and stays active in organizations that serve the local community. She volunteers with the Grain Place Foundation, a non-profit that will inherit and continue her family’s organic farm in central Nebraska. Molly lives with her husband, Matthew Parker, and their son Jonah. Molly is an alum of Two-Year Academy #41 and will serve as Retreat Leader for upcoming Two-Year Academy #43.

Artwork & Photos from the episode:

The Trinity — Kelly Latimore: https://kellylatimoreicons.com/products/the-trinity

That they may have life — Corita Kent:
https://collection.corita.org/piece/64-24

Enriched bread — Corita Kent:
https://collection.corita.org/piece/65-02

Welcome Sign — Noah Purifoy:
https://bit.ly/3BKvF3V

Toilet Bowl Sculpture — Noah Purifoy
https://bit.ly/3Y32fG2

Sitting in The White House — Noah Purifoy:
https://bit.ly/3ByXyfr

White/Colored — Noah Purifoy:
https://bit.ly/3BsD5bZ

Claremont School of Theology Cross — Sam Maloof:
https://bit.ly/3XPVMho

JOIN US

We're excited to announce that the next Two-Year Academy begins November 3, 2025. A website and online application for Academy #43 will be available in the very near future. We’ll be sharing those details in the coming weeks. If you want to be one of the first to know when registration is open, please complete this simple form to give us your name and contact information so that we can inform you as soon as the application is ready. Link to Form: forms.gle/X63WN8RHtAvLDWLL7 

Show Notes:

Episode tracks: “Far Side of the Sea,” “Versailles,” and “Fearless” by Amy Stroup, used with permission.

For more information and resources visit: academy.upperroom.org/resources

Support Our Work
If the Academy Podcast or any of the ministries of The Academy for Spiritual Formation have benefited your life and spirituality, please consider making a one-time or monthly donation to show your support. You can learn more about how your gifts make a difference at https://academy.upperroom.org/donate/

Spirituality and Embodiment with Molly Vetter

Have you ever considered what it truly means to live by faith rather than by sight? In 2 Corinthians 5:1-10, Paul vividly illustrates our earthly existence as fleeting, much like residing in a tent, especially when contrasted with the everlasting home that God has prepared for us. We will explore the significance of trusting in God’s eternal promise and how it influences our lives, keeping in mind that one day we will stand before Him.

Explore the deeper yearning for redemption and eternal unity with God, as we address the shared experience of suffering with Christ and the promise of future glory. By examining key passages from 1 Corinthians, Romans, and Philippians, we gain a better understanding of living in a disembodied state after death and the hope of resurrection. Let these reflections serve as a beacon of hope, encouraging you in your spiritual journey and reminding you of the ultimate victory of eternal life through Christ.

#275  "Built for Eternity: God's Promise of a Heavenly Home" (2 Corinthians 5:1-5)

This month, the Academy Podcast features Rubén Ortiz's teaching from the 2022 online Academy Day Apart retreat called “Hope in a Time of Despair: Advent Through Immigrant Eyes." In this episode, Rubén Ortiz shares his personal journey as a migrant, weaving together stories of family, faith, and transformation. Through the lenses of familia, nepantla (the in-between spaces), and diaspora, Rubén reflects on the spiritual lessons he’s learned through migration and exile. Drawing on biblical narratives, his own experiences, and the themes of Advent, Rubén explores the creative and transformative potential of waiting, belonging, and building bridges across cultures.

Join us as Rubén invites us to expand the boundaries of our hearts, see the vast ocean of possibilities in migration, and discover how faith shapes a life in motion.

Take a look at Rubén's presentation slides here: https://bit.ly/rubenortizacademy

Rev. Rubén N. Ortiz, M.Div., is the Latino Field Ministries Coordinator for the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship (CBF). He a two-time immigrant: Cuba to Ecuador (1993) and Ecuador to USA (2000). With studies in music, communications, and theology, Rubén has served as a pastor for more than two decades as well as a Spiritual Director. He is often called upon as a consultant, advisor, and resource facilitator and is passionate about promoting the wellbeing of congregations and pastors. Rubén was a participant in Two-Year Academy #32 (a Spanish and English bilingual Academy) and is also part of the Academy Advisory Board. In his ministry with CBF, he works with Latino congregations and partners and provides leadership to FAMILIA, CBF’s Latino Network. Rubén and his wife, Xiomara, are “empty-nester” parents of Natalia Sofia and Daniel Andrés.

JOIN US

We're excited to announce that the next Two-Year Academy begins November 3, 2025. Learn more about Two-Year Academy #43 and apply here: https://academy.upperroom.org/event/two-year-43/

Show Notes:

Episode tracks: “Far Side of the Sea,” “Versailles,” and “Fearless” by Amy Stroup, used with permission.

For more information and resources visit: academy.upperroom.org/resources

Support Our Work
If the Academy Podcast or any of the ministries of The Academy for Spiritual Formation have benefited your life and spirituality, please consider making a one-time or monthly donation to show your support. You can learn more about how your gifts make a difference at https://academy.upperroom.org/donate/

Advent Through Immigrant Eyes with Rubén Ortiz

2025 Series Introduction

In this episode of The Academy Podcast, we share an important update: a hiatus and reimagination of our podcast journey. Join host Shalom Agtarap as we reflect on the gifts of the new year, the wisdom of the Magi, and the importance of rest and discernment.

While we pause to prayerfully envision the future of this offering, we encourage you to revisit past episodes and share your feedback in this survey to help shape what’s next: https://bit.ly/academypodcast2025

Thank you for being part of this transformative community. Keep listening—to life, to creation, and to the still, small voice guiding us all. For updates and to stay connected, visit Academy.UpperRoom.org.

We look forward to returning with renewed vision and purpose.

Shalom Agtarap is a graduate of Two-Year Academy #29 and has served on multiple Academy leadership teams, including the upcoming Two-Year Academy #43. She is an ordained minister in The United Methodist Church who builds community through relational organizing. Her roots are in the church but they are watered by many streams as she intentionally cultivates connection across racial/ethnic lines, religious traditions, and socioeconomic backgrounds for the common good. Shalom lives in Tacoma, Washington with her spouse and three children.

JOIN US

We're excited to announce that the next Two-Year Academy begins November 3, 2025. Learn more about Two-Year Academy #43 and apply at  https://academy.upperroom.org/event/two-year-43/

Show Notes:

Episode tracks: “Far Side of the Sea,” “Versailles,” and “Fearless” by Amy Stroup, used with permission.

For more information and resources visit: academy.upperroom.org/resources

Support Our Work
If the Academy Podcast or any of the ministries of The Academy for Spiritual Formation have benefited your life and spirituality, please consider making a one-time or monthly donation to show your support. You can learn more about how your gifts make a difference at https://academy.upperroom.org/donate/

Pause, Reflect, Reimagine: An Update on Our Podcast Journey

In this hundredth episode, I share the completion of my doctoral dissertation, reflecting on the impact of global and national issues on our well-being. Drawing inspiration from Willie James Jennings, I explore the concept of a new reality in belonging and its significance in our polarized world. As an introvert and Enneagram 4, I discuss the challenges of making video podcasts and the importance of feedback. I delve into themes of contemplation, justice, and our role in public theology, referencing Matthew 10:34-37 and Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance. As we approach Lent, I invite you to join me in deep soul formation and anti-racism work, aiming to create safe spaces for transformative conversations. Your feedback and support are invaluable on this journey. 

To watch this podcast: https://youtu.be/LMqNzLUZjcg

Please complete this survey to help us develop the podcast. Thanks!
https://tinyurl.com/kkhnz7yx

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:28 Rediscovering the Podcast's Purpose
03:02 Invitation to Feedback and Reflection
04:10 Contemplation and Justice
05:19 Exploring a New Reality in Belonging
07:10 Creating Safe Spaces for Hard Conversations
09:55 Public Theology and Social Justice
12:01 Meditation on Matthew 10:34-37
14:09 Looking Ahead and Final Thoughts

To learn more about the Invitation Center: www.theinvitationcenter.org
The Invitation Center is a 501c3. Tax deductible donations can be offered here: https://theinvitationcenter.org/donations

Rediscovering Belonging: Reflections on Contemplation, Justice, and Community No. 100

Exploring Jesus' teaching on prayer through the lens of community and trust, this sermon examines how the Lord's Prayer shapes both our relationship with God and our connections with neighbors. Beginning with the parable of the midnight visitor, we discover how persistent prayer and radical hospitality transform our understanding of God's provision and our role in meeting one another's needs. The message challenges us to move beyond transactional prayer to embrace a deeper trust in God's abundance and our calling to be part of the answer to "Give us this day our daily bread."

20250727-101800

Join us for Episode 4198 of Day1 with Rev. Dr. Barry Jones, Senior Pastor of Irving Bible Church in Dallas-Fort Worth. In his sermon “Seen, Known, Loved,” based on Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18, Dr. Jones explores what it means to be fully seen, deeply known, and unconditionally loved by God. Speaking into the chaos, shame, and suffering we face, he reminds us of God’s abiding presence and grace. As we mark the 13th Sunday after Pentecost, tune in for this message of hope and encouragement!


Seen, Known, Loved - Episode #4198 | Rev. Dr. Barry Jones | Psalm 139:1-6, 13-18 | September 7, 2025

Welcome to The Academy Podcast, a podcast dedicated to sharing rich content for the purpose of spiritual growth. The Academy Podcast is brought to you by The Academy for Spiritual Formation, an international ministry of The Upper Room. The Academy is dedicated to creating safe space for people to connect with God, self, others, and creation for the sake of the world. To learn more about our Five-Day and Two-Year retreat offerings, visit academy.upperroom.org. We’re glad you’re here.

Day1 has been a trusted voice of hope and inspiration in the mainline Protestant tradition for 80 years. Founded in 1945 as a pioneering radio ministry known as "The Protestant Hour," Day1 has evolved into a multimedia platform that uplifts and connects faith and life. Through powerful sermons and engaging conversations with some of the nation’s most gifted preachers, we proclaim God’s love and grace across the airwaves, podcasts, and online platforms. Join us in continuing this legacy of sharing messages that inspire and transform lives around the world.

The Invitation podcast is a 'little retreat' to help you hear and respond to the God's invitation to a deeper relationship with him. Each episode is a guided prayer and meditation led by Josh Banner, a certified spiritual director. 

Stand Strong in the Word is a Christian podcast designed to help you grow in your love and appreciation of God's Word. Join Jason Jimenez, best-selling author and worldview expert, as he teaches through the New Testament  in chronological order. 

For more information, visit www.standstrongministries.org.

Rev. Dr. Charissa Howe brings vibrant energy and deep theological insight to her preaching ministry. A Presbyterian pastor of a vibrant Pittsburgh congregation and the former Director of Chaplaincy at an urban county jail, she weaves together academic wisdom with real-world pastoral experience. Her engaging style combines thoughtful biblical interpretation with practical applications for daily life. Drawing from her diverse background in both institutional and congregational ministry, she offers fresh perspectives that challenge and inspire listeners to deeper faith and action.

This page only contains archives of old episodes. Please refer to your favorite podcasting platform or https://open.spotify.com/show/7qss2YJ25d3ID0jRItlKMu for new recordings.

New tracks tagged #Spiritual Formation