Taking Down the Cross
Ian Lawton and David Riordan

Ian Lawton talks to David Riordan about the C3 Exchange community, the controversial decision to remove the cross from their church, and the intent to create a more inclusive and inspirational Christianity....

We have been aware of the importance of Ian's work in the progressive Christian community for quite some time--he's been inspired by the work of Ken Wilber since 2005, as well as a student of Genpo Roshi. He is someone we have always wanted to dialogue with about the present and the future of Christianity, so I am pleased that we finally made it happen.

Some of you may know Ian from the spirituality blogs he authors or from his involvement with the Spiritual but Not Religious online community. His journey has always challenged him to seek a relevant vessel for his Christian faith at every step of his spiritual development. What emerges in this profile is a truly extraordinary spirit that continues to facilitate the C3 Exchange community in Grand Haven, Michigan. What is moving in him and the C3 community is a fascinating exploration of what an Integral view can bring to a diverse Christian spiritual practice.

The day we recorded our profile with Ian was an auspices time in the life of the C3 Exchange. As we spoke, they were literally taking the cross off their church--a bold act that actually made it to Fox News. (The link to news clip is to the right, check it out!) You can link directly to the C3 Exchange at www.c3exchange.org. And if you are seeking daily inspirations and a community of like minded seekers, link to Ian's Soul Seeds on-line community at: www.soulseeds.com.

Enjoy this lively conversation with one of the bright lights in the progressive Christian movement.

Text by David Riordan