This week I sit down with Rev. Tory Shane Dillard for a conversation on mysticism, ministry, and friendship (not to mention a little bit of Paul Tillich, for good measure). Tory is an ordained Elder in the United Methodist Church. He currently serves in the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference. Tory considers himself to be a Process theologian with roots in Wesleyan and Mystical thought. In his spare time Rev.Tory is a poet, actor, and writer. He received his Masters of Divinity degree from Boston University School of Theology. Rev. Tory believes that as long as we find and maintain our deep rooted sense of joy, wonder, and compassion within our own being and in the being of others, then we can face any and all challenges ahead. Rev. Tory gives thanks to God, Jesus Christ, and to his many mentors and friends for getting him to where he is today both theologically and pastorally.

What is the relationship between art, religion, and culture? How are existential questions addressed in each? Can offensive street art be spiritually deep? In this video, I explore these issues through the existentialist lens of German-American scholar Paul Tillich, covering his ideas about "God" and culture, digging into a bit of art history, and explaining why even video games, Instagram memes, and graffiti constitute meaningful ways of engaging with the most important aspects of human existence.

After a much needed Easter break, Tillich Today is back with Dr. Nimi Wariboko, scholar, professor, and all around smart cookie. We discuss Tillich's thought in the context of contemporary economics, Pentecostal theology, and moral philosophy.