Podcast
Holy Shenanigans
Hosted by Tara Lamont Eastman · EN
Holy Shenanigans shares stories that surprise, encourage, and sometimes even turn life upside down – all in the name of love. Your muse is Tara Lamont Eastman, pastor, podcaster and practitioner of Holy Shenanigans . Join her on a journey of unforgettable spiritual adventure that is always sacred but never stuffy.
20episodes
Episodes
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How to Turn Ordinary Moments into Sacred Strength: A Lenten Transformation
Mar 100:26:18Tap to summarizeIn this meaningful Lenten conversation, Pastor Tara Lamont Eastman is joined by Rev. Ellen Corcella--author of "Walk With Me: A Journey Through the Landscape of Trauma" and host of The Faith and Resilience Podcast--to explore the power of resilience and the sacred hidden within everyday life. Together, they reflect on how resilience is not just an individual trait, but something nurtured through connection—to God, to others, and to the present moment.Drawing on the wisdom of Julian of Norwich and her simple yet profound “hazelnut” metaphor, this episode invites listeners to slow down and notice the sacred in ordinary experiences—a cup of coffee, a conversation, a breath between moments. Through storytelling, poetry, and spiritual practices like Lectio Divina and contemplative reflection, Tara shares how creativity and theopoetics can open new pathways to meaning, healing, and hope.Whether you are walking through a season of wilderness or simply navigating the rhythms of daily life, this episode offers a gentle reminder: you are already surrounded by grace. In both the mountaintops and the valleys, you are made, loved, and kept.Join us for a thoughtful, grounding conversation that encourages you to embrace “thin spaces” right where you are—and to discover that all manner of things, even now, can be well.Send Tara a Text Message🎙️ Exciting news! Tara is recording a new episode of the Holy Shenanigans Podcast live at the Wild Goose Festival this September 3–6 at Vanhoy Farms in Harmony, North Carolina! Wild Goose is a faith-inspired festival celebrating social justice, creativity, spirituality, and community—a gathering of artists, activists, and seekers making a positive impact in the world. She'd love to see you there! Learn more at www.wiSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Ashes to Action: Advice for your Lenten Journey
Feb 1500:13:45Tap to summarizeThink Lent is only about giving things up? Join Tara as she describes the season as a way to “make room” - for meditation, reflection, and acts of service. She invites you to take up a new spiritual practice or write your own spiritual autobiography. She describes how two stories - Madeleine L’Engle’s Circle of Quiet & the Transfiguration of Jesus in Matthew 17 - taught her that transformation involves commitment, community, and action.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Championing Women in Ministry with Dr. Crystal Hall
Feb 100:29:57Tap to summarizeTara interviews Dr. Crystal Hall from Crystal Hall Coaching about supporting and affirming women in ministry. Dr. Hall shares her journey, the challenges women face in ministry, and the importance of cultivating sustainable and life-giving ministries. The conversation explores themes of patriarchal structures and the significance of women's voices in proclaiming the gospel. Listen in on an inspiring discussion of the intersections of St. Brigid's Day, earth traditions, and the contributions of women saints like Brigid and Hildegard of Bingen.Hearth Keeper Prayer of St. Brigid - from St. Brigids.orgBrigid of the Mantle, encompass us,Lady of the Lambs, protect us,Keeper of the Hearth, kindle us.Beneath your mantle, gather us,And restore us to memory.Mothers of our mother,Foremothers strong.Guide our hands in yours,Remind us how to kindle the hearth.To keep it bright, to preserve the flame.Your hands upon ours,Our hands within yours,To kindle the light,Both day and night.The Mantle of Brigid about us,The Memory of Brigid within us,The Protection of Brigid keeping usFrom harm, from ignorance, from heartlessness.This day and night,From dawn till dark,From dark till dawn.Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Aligning Your Passion & Purpose with Emily Goodstein of Greater Good Strategy
Jan 1500:21:09Tap to summarizeTara welcomes Emily Goodstein, the Founder + CEO of Greater Good Strategy. They discuss how to find fulfillment and purpose while contributing to the greater good. Emily shares her journey of establishing a digital marketing and fundraising firm that supports mission-driven organizations, emphasizing the power of community and sustainable work practices. She wears really cool glasses too!Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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Love Inspired New Year Resolutions
Jan 100:20:11Tap to summarizeKickstart the New Year as we embrace 2026 through the lens of love-inspired New Year's resolutions. Dive into reflections from Bonnie Smith Whitehouse's 'Season of Wonder' and hear uplifting stories of simple, everyday acts of love—from sharing pens and art to donning joy sweaters and making Sunday soup. Let's explore how ordinary gestures can bring more life, liberation, creation, and love into our world. Join us in walking the way of love in this special New Year's episode.Gratitude to Rev. Ellen Corcella for her support of HSP!Book References:Seasons of Wonder by Bonnie Smith Whitehouse - at InstagramCrone Zone by Nina Bargiel - Slack Mistress at InstagramPlaces to Visit:The Plaza Restaurant Bough and Bend FloralFirst Presbyterian Church of Warren, PASend Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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The Sacred Lights of Advent Part 2
Dec 1500:18:19Tap to summarizeJoin pastor and podcaster Tara Lamont Eastman as she explores the sacredness in everyday life during the Advent season. This episode delves into the significance of the Advent wreath, the lighting of the pink candle for Gaudete Sunday, and the story of a special purple and pink stole gifted to Tara. Through personal anecdotes, biblical stories, and inspirational quotes, Tara invites listeners to embrace joy, love, and everyday acts of kindness as we journey toward Christmas. Tune in for blessings, reflections, and a call to celebrate the holy shenanigans of the season.To learn more about Lori Kochanski's weaving, visit hereThe Poet, Cleo Wade's website is: https://cleowade.com/Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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The Sacred Lights of Advent Part 1
Dec 100:14:39Tap to summarizeWelcome to Season 7 of the Holy Shenanigans Podcast with Tara Lamont Eastman. This Advent-themed episode explores the intersection of faith and art through storytelling, reflections on hope and peace, and poetry. Tara shares a personal story from the AKG Art Museum and introduces the concept of theopoetics—speaking about the divine through the arts. Dive into the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love as we journey through Advent. Featuring insights from theologians Shelly Rambo and Heather Walton, and a poignant poem by Morgan Harper Nichols, this episode invites listeners to pause amid the holiday rush and reflect on the sacredness in everyday life.Show notes:The painting referenced in this episode is Mäntykoski Waterfall’, by Finnish Artist Akseli Gallen-Kallela.Thanks to musician and poet Morgan Harper Nichols for her permission to share her poem, Dark Purple.Gratitude to Theopoets - Professors Shelly Rambo and Heather Walton for their theological resources. Advent readings:HOPELight one candle to watch for Messiah.One little flame illuminates the darkness.Little flame, even from a distance, you offerWarmth and welcome, even in our wandering.We set out in HOPE, that God fulfills the promise… "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob, that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." Isaiah 2:3 PEACELight two candles to watch for Messiah.Two flames shine and give light to help us:see, navigate, and travel safely on our Advent journey.We carry PEACE with us, to gently be led homeward. “The spirit of the LORD shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD.” Isaiah 11:2Send Tara a Text MessageSupport the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
Transcribe →Celebrating Life's Simple Moments: A Thanksgiving Special
Nov 1500:32:57Tap to summarizeJoin Tara Lamont Eastman, host of the Holy Shenanigans podcast, as she welcomes her friends and classmates Kellie Brown and Joni Bouma for a heartwarming discussion about giving thanks. They reflect on small kindnesses, everyday graces, and the beauty in ordinary life. Listen for an inspiring online poetry slam and discover the power of gratitude practices in finding joy and meaning in life's simple moments. Gratitude to Professor and Poet Lynn Domina for her encouragement to read more poetry!Poems Read:Small Kindnesses by Danusha Laméris Mindful by Mary Oliver The Facts of Life by Pádraig Ó Tuama Gratitude Pillow by Naomi Shihab Nye Song Lyric Reference: 'Look Up' by Joy Oladokun Send Tara a Text MessageJoin Tara for Worship on Sunday morning at 10 am. Warren First Presbyterian Church at 300 Market Street in Warren Pennsylvania. A live stream is provided via FaceBook for people out of the region... During Lent Tara is facilitating a book club based on Madeline L'Engle's book A Circle of Quiet. Tuesday mornings at 10;30 am at the church.Support the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
Transcribe →Light a Candle of Remembrance: A Sacred Pause
Nov 100:15:37Tap to summarizeTara discusses the significance of All Saints Day and different ways to remember and honor loved ones who have passed away. Tara shares her personal practices of remembrance and introduces listeners to the life and poetry of Welsh poet Ruth Bidgood, who dedicated her work to remembering the people and places of Wales. The episode includes a reflection on Bidgood's poem 'The Pause' and concludes with a poetic response by Tara, encouraging listeners to find meaningful ways to honor their loved ones. Find comfort and hope through remembrance and celebrate the legacy of those who have passed.Send Tara a Text MessageJoin Tara for Worship on Sunday morning at 10 am. Warren First Presbyterian Church at 300 Market Street in Warren Pennsylvania. A live stream is provided via FaceBook for people out of the region... During Lent Tara is facilitating a book club based on Madeline L'Engle's book A Circle of Quiet. Tuesday mornings at 10;30 am at the church.Support the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
Transcribe →Sonny
Jun 14, 2022Tap to summarizePastor Tara is a little under the weather this week, so Ian, the other Eastman associated with this podcast fills in and tries not to break anything. He tells a story about a kind act that changes a young boy's life.Send Tara a Text MessageJoin Tara for Worship on Sunday morning at 10 am. Warren First Presbyterian Church at 300 Market Street in Warren Pennsylvania. A live stream is provided via FaceBook for people out of the region... During Lent Tara is facilitating a book club based on Madeline L'Engle's book A Circle of Quiet. Tuesday mornings at 10;30 am at the church.Support the showRev. Tara Lamont Eastman is a pastor, podcaster and host of Holy Shenanigans since September of 2020. Eastman combines her love of ministry with her love of writing, music and visual arts. She is a graduate of Wartburg Theological Seminary’s Theological Education for Emerging Ministry Program and the Youth and Theology Certificate Program at Princeton Seminary. She has served in various ministry and pastoral roles over the last thirty years in the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) and PCUSA (Presbyterian Church of America). She is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church of Warren Pennsylvania. She has presented workshops on the topics of faith and creativity at the Wild Goose Festival. She is a trainer for Soul Shop Suicide Prevention for Church Communities.
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