Caleb is joined by Ben Cremer and David Ritchie for a candid conversation about navigating the complexities of pastoral ministry in politically charged and culturally entrenched environments. From the Confederate roots of Idaho to refugee ministry in West Texas, the three pastors explore how historical context, political idolatry, and cultural assumptions shape the church’s witness today. They share their own evolving journeys—from avoiding politics to addressing justice and social action through a gospel lens. They offer practical guidance for pastors, emphasize the power of gentle, Spirit-led truth, and call the church back to the cruciform way of the Lamb.
For more about the J29 Coalition, and our upcoming Pastor Cohort, visit J29coalition.com
David Ritchie is the lead pastor of Redeemer Christian Church in Amarillo, Texas, where he has faithfully served for over a decade. A fifth-generation West Texan, David brings deep-rooted love for his hometown to his ministry, which began with the replanting of a dying church and has grown into a vibrant, multi-generational congregation. He is the author of Why Do the Nations Rage?, a biblical-theological critique of Christian nationalism, and is known for his thoughtful, gospel-centered engagement with cultural and political issues. In addition to his local church work, David is involved in ministry to refugees in the Amarillo area and is passionate about forming disciples who embody the self-giving love of Jesus.
Ben Cremer is a writer, theologian, and pastor committed to shepherding people through the complexities of faith, culture, and discipleship in the modern world. Based in Boise, Idaho, Ben has spent nearly two decades pastoring in both traditional and digital spaces, with a growing focus on online discipleship and theological reflection. He is the voice behind the Into the Gray newsletter and podcast, where he explores faith beyond culture war binaries, drawing from church history, biblical scholarship, and personal pastoral experience. Known for his gentle yet prophetic voice, Ben speaks especially to those who have felt pushed out of church spaces, offering a vision of Jesus rooted in grace, justice, and spiritual renewal.
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