Q&A #311- AER Nepotism, Gender roles and identity, safe spaces, and maybe more!

AER: I’m curious about Doug’s comments regarding the nepotism conversation on the board. If a couple serves as “one voice” on the board wouldn’t that be the same for a couple working in the church? And I’m wondering if the answer is no, does that mean Doug and Loralie have never spoken even of ideas for the church at home? I guess I just don’t understand the way it’s laid out with the board/ staff 

1. Hello, I have just started listening to your podcast and have enjoyed your takes on certain questions both pastorally and personally. I have a question about transgender and people struggling with their gender. I am wondering what your thoughts are on the impact that gender roles have played on people becoming trans genders? And also how certain genders will assume something from that gender, this can be for both male and female. Been wrestling with my own views but don’t want to be in a bubble where my views are the only thing I hear.

2. At Living Springs, do you feel it would be a safe space for a trans person to come in the building on Sundays. Not if everyone is affirming, just if it would be a safe space for those to enter and feel accepted and like it is ok for them to occupy the same space as cis gendered people. What steps do feel could be taken to ensure the space is at minimum safe for a trans person to explore their faith if they would like to