Simply Christian LIFE with Bishop Michael Hunn
Religion & Spirituality
About
The Simply Christian LIFE podcast is for the spiritually curious - everyone seeking God or a deeper relationship with God. It’s about living simply, loving God, and loving our neighbors. It’s about deepening the roots and broadening the reach of our faith. It’s about spiritual practices like parenting, prayer, nonviolent communication, embracing diversity and permaculture gardening.Simply Christian LIFE is hosted by Michael Buerkel Hunn, who is the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande, which includes New Mexico and the far west part of Texas.
Episodes
- A Border Wall in the Big Bend? Why No One Wants a Wall in the Big Bend
Why a Border Wall in Big Bend Could Harm Wildlife, Ranchers, and Tourism Traveling to Terlingua and Lajitas, Texas, Bishop Michael Hunn speaks with Mike Wallens about proposed border wall expansion in the Big Bend near Big Bend National Pa…
- Here Be Dragons 3 : Living Faithfully When God is Silent
Here Be Dragons (Meditation 3): Trusting God in Silence and Darkness Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande offers the third meditation in “Here Be Dragons: three meditations on the apophatic Way,” reflecting on Jesus’ raw pr…
- Here Be Dragons 2 : When God Says NO.
Here Be Dragons (Meditation 2): When God Says No—The Apophatic Way and the Church’s Stripping Away Bishop Michael Hun of the Diocese of the Rio Grande reflects on the Episcopal Church’s shift from mid-20th-century cultural confidence and i…
- Here Be Dragons 1 : This Is Not God
Here Be Dragons: Lent Meditation 1 — This Is Not God (The Apophatic Way) Bishop Michael Hunn of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande introduces the first of three Lenten meditations, “Here Be Dragons,” exploring the apophatic way of fai…
- Here Be Dragons: Three Meditations on the Apophatic Way
Here Be Dragons: Lenten Meditations on the Silence and Darkness of God Bishop Michael Hunn introduces a series of three meditations titled "Here Be Dragons," focusing on Lent, the silence and darkness of God, and wilderness times, and expl…
- A Holy Lent : A Season of Prayer, Repentance, and Renewal
A Holy Lent: Discipleship, Confession, and Prayer Book Practices A message to the Diocese of the Rio Grande introducing Lent as a season of wilderness that prepares Christians for Holy Week and Easter by recalling Jesus’ temptation in the…
- Detention Centers: A Call for Morality and Reform
Michael Hunn, Bishop of the Diocese of the Rio Grande for the Episcopal Church, addresses the moral implications of the current detention practices at the US-Mexico border. He highlights the struggles faced by detainees, including many who…
- Counting Lives : Integrity in a Time Like This
In this episode, we delve into the profound poem 'The Pedagogy of Conflict' by Pádraig Ó Tuama, exploring themes of integrity, hypocrisy, and the sanctity of life. Drawing connections to current social and political unrest, we urge a retur…
- Honoring Veterans: A Call to Responsible Deployment and Care Veterans: A Call to Responsible Deployment and Care
Honoring Veterans: A Call to Responsible Deployment and Care In this video, Bishop Michael Hunn reflects on the historical and constitutional foundations of the U.S. military, emphasizing the importance of responsible deployment and compre…
- Life is Changed Not Ended, Bishop’s Address to Convention 2025
Facing the Future with Faith In this Address to the Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, Bishop Michael Hunn address the pressing challenges facing the world and our communities today—from political division and economic f…
- A New Era: Bishop Sarah Mullally Chosen 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
Historic Election: Bishop Sarah Mullally Becomes the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury Bishop Michael Burkel Hun of the Diocese of the Rio Grande in the Episcopal Church celebrates the election of Bishop Sarah Mullally as the 106th Archbishop…
- Sacred Journeys: The Inspirational Story of The Rev’d Dr. Hilary Borbón Smith
Diocese of the Rio Grande Weekly Update: Special Announcements & Rev. Dr. Hilary Smith's Inspiring Journey In this week's update for the last week of September 2025, the Bishop of the Diocese of the Rio Grande reminds clergy about the upco…
- Erika Kirk’s Example: Forgiveness, Faith and the Way of Jesus
A Call to Forgiveness and Compassion in Troubling Times In this powerful address, Bishop Michael Hunn explores the extreme violence and hatred currently gripping the United States and the Diocese of the Rio Grande. The murder of Charlie Ki…
- Unity in Prayer: The Episcopal Journey to the Dominican Republic
Weekly Update: Exploring the Ministry of the Diocese in the Dominican Republic | September 20, 2025 In this week's update for the Diocese of the Rio Grande, dated September 20, 2025, we highlight the upcoming Diocesan Convention in Novembe…
- St John’s Tool Library: Building Community Power in Alamogordo, NM
Revolutionizing Community Support: St. John's Episcopal Church's Innovative Labor Hub In this episode, we highlight a groundbreaking ministry effort at St. John's Episcopal Church in Alamogordo, New Mexico. Hosted by Evan Lambert, Presiden…
- Opening Hope: Deacon Laurie Benavides Opens the High Mountain Youth Project Teen Shelter
Welcome to our tour of the new youth shelter and drop-in center in Ruidoso, New Mexico! 00:00 – Introduction: Bishop Michael Hunn and Deacon Laurie Benavides open the video and discuss the vision for the shelter. 00:39 – Overview: Laurie e…
- What’s Really Happening at the Border: Weekly Update’s New Season Begins
Diocese of the Rio Grande: Weekly Update on Borderland Ministries Join us for this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande. Bishop Hunn returns with a critical interview featuring Ana Reza, chaplain for the Borderland Ministries,…
- Voices of Compassion: Responding to Courthouse Ice Arrests in El Paso
On the Ground: Humanitarian Responses to courthouse ICE arrests in El Paso In this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, Bishop Michael Hunn speaks with Ana Reza, the Border Chaplain, and Deacon Sondra Jones about the ongoing I…
- Protecting Principles: Our Appeal Against Homeland Security’s Second Letter.
Addressing Termination of Diocesan Shelter Program Funding by DHS Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande discusses the receipt of a second letter from Homeland Security, terminating their shelter and services program grant. T…
- At A Loss: A Holy Saturday Homily
Contemplating Grief and Loss: A Reflection on Jesus' Death Following the Gospel Reading for the day, read by Canon JP Arossa, Bishop Michael Hunn delves into the Holy Gospel according to Matthew, recounting the events following Jesus' cruc…
- Facing Death and Resurrection: Spiritual and Practical Insights for Life’s Final Stage with Jan Hosea
In this episode, we delve into how elderhood offers a unique spiritual opportunity to reflect on one's spiritual bucket list and identity beyond profession and family roles. Our discussion also covers the spiritual practice of preparing fo…
- Unlocking the Wisdom Years: Spirituality After 65 the Wisdom Years: Spirituality After 65
Join us for a heartfelt conversation with Jan Hosea at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Albuquerque, New Mexico, as we delve into the essence of spiritual identity and Elderhood. Discover the history and current character of St. Mary's congr…
- From Rio Grande to Austin: A New Journey for The Rev. Canon Lee Curtis and Family
Join us as we share both exciting and bittersweet news from the Diocese of the Rio Grande. Reverend Canon Lee Curtis announces that his wife, Hannah, has been accepted to continue her studies in person at the Seminary of the Southwest in A…
- Transforming Faith: From Border Ministries to Parish Connections with Christina Rathbone. Part 2 Faith: From Border Ministries to Parish Connections with Christina Rathbone. Part 2
Welcome to Simply Christian Life! In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande continues his profound conversation with Christina Rathbone, author of 'The Asylum Seekers'. Delving into US asylum policies and her tr…
- Understanding Asylum Seekers: Interview with The Rev. Christina Rathbone About Her New Book
Understanding Asylum Seekers: Interview with Rev. Christina Rathbone About Her New Book In this episode of The Simply Christian Life, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande introduces an interview with Reverend Christina Rath…
- Bishop Michael Hunn Responds to Department of Homeland Security: Defending Our Border Ministry
Bishop Michael Hunn Responds to Department of Homeland Security : Defending Our Border Ministry In this video, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande addresses the recent letter from the Department of Homeland Security insinu…
- Exploring the Role of Deacons in the Episcopal Church with Deacon Athena Gassoumis
Understanding the Role of a Deacon with Bishop Michael Hunn and Deacon Athena Gassoumis Join Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande as he sits down with Deacon Athena Gassoumis to discuss the true essence and calling of a dea…
- Fr. James Brzezinski is an Organ Builder?
Journey of Faith: Father James Brzezinski's Pilgrimage and Organ Building In this special episode, join us as we dive into a captivating conversation with Father James Brzezinski, an organist and organ builder. Explore his inspiring journe…
- What Christian Leadership Looks Like...
What Christian Leadership Looks Like.... with Bishop Michael Hunn Join Michael Hunn, the Episcopal Bishop of the Diocese of Rio Grande, as he delves into the essence of Christian leadership. He emphasizes the importance of following the te…
- The President met a Bishop this week...
The President met a Bishop this week...Navigating Church and Society: A Message from Bishop Michael Hunn In this insightful message, Bishop Michael Hunn of the Diocese of the Rio Grande discusses the diverse reactions within the Episcopal…
- Meet Fr. James Brzezinski
Weekly Update - Highlighting the Annual Leadership Retreat and a Special Introduction to Father James Brzezinski In this week's update for the third week of Epiphany 2025, we are introduced to Father James Brzezinski, the new rector of Gra…
- Faith on Duty: Military Chaplaincy and the Diocese of the Rio Grande
Welcome to the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the second week of Advent 2024. In this episode, we provide key announcements including the upcoming open house at Bishop's Ridge and guidance on subscribing to the diocesan news…
- From Chilies to Pilgrim Shells: The Heart of St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM
Exploring St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis, NM: A Rich History and Vibrant Community Join Bishop Michael Hunn and the Rev. Simon Carian as they delve into the rich history and vibrant community of St. James Episcopal Church in Clovis,…
- A Solemn Veteran’s Day
A Solemn Veterans Day with Bishop Michael Hunn Bishop Michael Hunn invites the Diocese of the Rio Grande to observe Veterans Day, honoring those who served and remembering those who sacrificed their lives for our freedoms. He highlights a…
- Bishops Address to the 72nd Convention of the DRG 2024
72nd Diocesan Convention: Strengthening the Future of the Episcopal Church in Rio Grande Join us as we dive into the 72nd Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, featuring insights from St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthi…
- All Together Now! Strategic Intent, Fractals, Flocking
All Together Now! Reimagining Church: Strategic Intentions, Fractals, and Flocking In this fourth episode of our mini-series on reimagining the Episcopal Church, we delve into how integrating strategic intention, fractals, and flocking can…
- Weekly Update: Flooding in Roswell, The Bishop Gets Political, Convention update
Weekly Update: Roswell Relief, Election Guidance & Diocesan Convention In this week's update from the Diocese of the Rio Grande, we extend our thoughts to those affected by flooding in Roswell and discuss the diocese's collaboration with E…
- The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest...
The Power of Flocking: The Seven Nearest… In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn applies the concept of 'flocking' as described by adrienne maree brown in her book 'Emerging Strategy’ to live in the Episcopal Church. By examining how birds,…
- Ferns, Fractals and Faith : Scaling Patterns in the Episcopal Church
Ferns, Fractals and Faith : Scaling Patterns in the Episcopal Church In this episode, Bishop Michael Hunn explores the concept of fractals and their relevance to the Episcopal Church. Fractals illustrate how patterns exist at every scale i…
- Indigenous peoples day 24
Celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day in the Diocese of Rio Grande In this special message from Bishop Michael Hunn, the Diocese of the Rio Grande is invited to honor Indigenous Peoples Day by deepening their understanding of indigenous histo…
- Strategic Intention: Reimagining Church in Uncertain Times
Embracing Strategic Intention in the Episcopal Church This video introduces a series about reimagining the Episcopal Church using insights from adrenne mares brown's, 'Emergent Strategy.' The focus is on 'strategic intention,' a concept th…
- Rethinking Episcopal Church Structures: Lessons on Relationships and Responsibility with Canon Lee Curtis
Join Canon Lee Curtis, Canon to the Ordinary of the Diocese of the Rio Grande, as he follows up on Bishop Hunn's recent discussion about the essential nature of bishops and dioceses. Curtis explores the relational role of bishops, the impo…
- Dioceses and the Role of Bishop : a Troubling Trend
The Role and Future of Bishops in the Episcopal Church In this thought-provoking update, we delve into a concerning trend within the Episcopal Church regarding the role and function of bishops. We explore the financial challenges leading t…
- WU : Congratulations Lee Curtis! Fall, and the Borderlands
Weekly Update - Diocese of the Rio Grande: September 2024 Join us for the Diocese of the Rio Grande's weekly update for the third week of September 2024. Celebrate Lee Curtis's nomination as Bishop Suffragan in the Diocese of West Texas an…
- Canon Lee Curtis Candidate for Bishop Suffrigan!
- The Long Road to Recovery in New Mexico
In this episode, join us for an insightful interview with Janna Lopez, the founder of Neighbors Helping Neighbors from Las Vegas, New Mexico. Janna shares the ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating Calf Canyon and Hermit's Cree…
- WU Labor Day 24
Weekly Update: Mission Trips, Wildfire Recovery, and Remembering Bishop Dave Bailey - Labor Day 2024 In this weekly update for Labor Day 2024, we catch up after a busy summer filled with general conventions and vacation time. Highlights in…
- Ruidoso Fire and Flood 2
Disaster Response Update: Fires and Floods in the Diocese of the Rio Grande Join us for a quick update on the ongoing disaster response efforts in the Diocese of the Rio Grande. Contribute here: donate This video covers the phases of respo…
- Ruidoso Fire
Emergency Wildfire Response for South Fork Fire: Prayers and Support Needed In this urgent message, Bishop Michael Hunn addresses the ongoing South Fork Fire impacting Ruidoso, New Mexico, Ruidoso Downs, Alto, and the Mescalero Apache Nati…
- Keith Saaré and Memorial Day
Memorial Day Interview with Army Chaplain Keith Saaré In this Memorial Day quasi-weekly update, Bishop Michael Hunn interviews The Rev Keith Saaré, now a priest of the Episcopal Church and an Army chaplain. The discussion touches on his jo…