Mapping the Divine

Episode 7: Judaism, Interpretation, and the Nature of Scripture | Dr. Jon D. Levenson, Harvard University

In this episode, I speak with Jon D. Levenson, the Albert A. List Professor of Jewish Studies at Harvard and one of the most influential scholars of Jewish theology and the Hebrew Bible. Our conversation explores core features of Judaism that are often misunderstood and its emphasis on covenant, law, and lived practice; the central role of interpretation in texts like the Hebrew Bible and rabbinic tradition; and the way Jewish theology resists being reduced to a fixed set of doctrines. We also examine how Jewish and Christian traditions have historically diverged in their readings of shared texts, and what serious interreligious dialogue requires beyond surface-level tolerance. We also reflect on Dr. Levenson’s early academic work, his engagement with figures like Dante, and the role of scholarship in challenging inherited assumptions and clarifying what is actually at stake in theological disagreement.

Episode 8: Technology, Faith, and the Human Person | Dr. Joe Vukov, Loyola University Chicago

In this episode, I speak with Dr. Joe Vukov, a philosopher at Loyola University Chicago whose work explores the intersection of technology, ethics, and the Catholic intellectual tradition. Our conversation examines what it means to remain human in an age increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence. We discuss the relationship between faith and reason, the importance of philosophical clarity in public debates, and how emerging technologies are not only changing what we do, but also who we become. We also look at the idea of the “post-human,” the role of Catholic social teaching in navigating technological change, and the moral responsibilities of institutions as AI continues to develop. Along the way, we reflect on human dignity, moral formation, and the deeper question at the heart of it all: what does it truly mean to be human?

Episode 6: Buddhism, Ritual and the Search for Meaning | Professor Thompson, Christopher Newport University

Hi! Welcome back! In this episode I spoke with Professor John M. Thompson, a scholar of Buddhism, Asian religious thought, and comparative religion at Christopher Newport University. Together, we explored how Buddhist ideas challenge Western assumptions, why myth and ritual remain central to human meaning-making, and how religious traditions respond to suffering and violence. The conversation touched on compassion, emptiness, interdependence, ritual practice, religious pluralism, and what younger generations can learn from the world’s great spiritual traditions. Whether you’re curious about Buddhism, fascinated by comparative religion, or simply searching for deeper meaning, I hope this episode can offer wisdom, clarity, and new ways of seeing the world. Furthermore, this is the YouTube channel Professor Thompson mentions, ‪@MingyurRinpoche‬ [https://www.youtube.com/@MingyurRinpoche] (    / @mingyurrinpoche  [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv-oUk8x6SGHMOLrCMDNrsw])

Episode 5: Faith in Community: The Role of Churches as Community Builders | Brian Stiltner, Sacred Heart University

Welcome back to Mapping the Divine! I'm Ria Wilson and honored to be joined by Professor Brian Stiltner! Professor Stiltner a Christian ethicist at Sacred Heart University and author of the forthcoming book Faith in Community: Practices that Strengthen Churches and Neighborhoods. Drawing on five years of research in six congregations, Professor Stiltner argues that churches have a vital role to play in responding to what he calls the “crisis of community.” The erosion of social connection, trust, and shared purpose has intensified through the Covid-19 pandemic, political polarization, and rising loneliness. Together, they explore why community life is fraying, how congregations already support their members and neighbors, and what more they can do to build strong, outward-facing communities. The conversation ranges from public health warnings about loneliness to the everyday practices of worship, care, and outreach that make churches powerful community builders. Whether you are part of a church, curious about the intersection of faith and civic life, or simply concerned about isolation and division in our society, this episode offers a hopeful and practical vision for renewing community.

Episode 4: Journey to the Priesthood | Father Vincent Druding

In this episode of Mapping the Divine, Father Vincent Druding reflects on his decision to enter the priesthood and offers an intellectual exploration of Catholic theology, faith, and the meaning of vocation.