From Missionary Kid to Ministry: Ed Kilbourne’s Journey and Reflections on Faith and Evangelicalism

In this heartfelt episode of To Be and Do, host Philip Amerson reconnects with longtime friend and guest, Ed Kilbourne—a musician, storyteller, and thought leader loved by progressive Christian communities across the country. Their conversation flows from reminiscing about their days at Asbury College to sharing wisdom on navigating faith, change, and finding meaning in later years.

Key Takeaway #1: The Winding Path of a Progressive Christian

From the outset, Ed Kilbourne reflects on his unlikely journey—from missionary kid to sharing platforms with notable spiritual figures like Marcus Borg and Phyllis Tickle. Ed Kilbourne shares how, rather than seeking the spotlight, he found himself “making other people look good and building a story and context around them for events and retreats.” His path was less about self-promotion and more about being useful in community, which ultimately opened doors.

Both Philip Amerson and Ed Kilbourne share experiences of growing up in legacy religious families and encountering the heavy “baggage” of perfectionism and expectation. Their mutual realization years later was how much of their spiritual journey was about unlearning these inherited pressures and seeking authentic belief.

Key Takeaway #2: Leaving (and Loving) the Church Family

A striking theme in this episode is the pain and liberation that comes from leaving one’s spiritual “home.” Philip Amerson and Ed Kilbourne discuss the evolution of evangelicalism, lamenting what they see as a meaner, more authoritarian spirit in some circles today. Ed Kilbourne, who now describes himself as a “believer” but avoids the label ‘Christian’ due to its cultural baggage, says, “It’s a hard journey because you’re kind of leaving a family that you love… there’s a brokenness because it was your home.”

The analogy of “alma mater” as “the mother of my soul” becomes a poignant moment, with both men realizing their theological alma maters are no longer their soul’s home. Ed Kilbourne even shares how conversations with old acquaintances feel like “a foreign country,” and riffs about “a different Jesus” to illustrate the divides between belief systems.

Key Takeaway #3: Finding Purpose and Community in New Ways

Despite these ruptures, this episode is ultimately about hope and new beginnings. Ed Kilbourne discusses how his Adult Vacation Church Schools (adult VBS) became not only a way to offer progressive storytelling and humor to older adults, but a life-changing discovery of where he was most needed. He describes the initial skepticism, the power of treating older adults like adults (with humor and authentic engagement), and how the programs expanded nationwide thanks to real connection.

Importantly, Ed Kilbourne credits his wife Kathleen as the secret ingredient in these retreats, whose unassuming, heartfelt leadership has become the most beloved part. It’s a lesson in humility and the power of simplicity—sometimes what impact an audience most isn’t the big show but honest, intimate presence.

Final Thoughts

The episode closes with Ed Kilbourne performing a moving song about what truly matters: living with love and integrity. As Philip Amerson says, living “in relationship” is the heart of it all.

This conversation is a testament to the complexity of spiritual journeys, the ache and joy of growth, and the redemptive power of new communities. For anyone wrestling with their place in faith, family, or vocation, this episode offers warmth, wisdom, and a reminder: the story isn’t over yet.

https://edkilbourne.com/