Faithful Friends: Inter-Religious Dialogues on Faith, Tradition, and Community

Faithful Friends: Inter-Religious Dialogues on Faith, Tradition, and Community
Podcast Description
Join two “Faithful Friends”–faithful to G-d, and good friends, Rabbi Edelstein and Anthony Cullen, as they try to better understand themselves by understanding each other. As clergy (or clergy-in-the making for Anthony), they are building bridges in the community; as friends, they are really just two theology and religion nerds who want to have interesting conversations and thought other folks might be interested to hear them too.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores themes of interfaith dialogue, biblical studies, and community building with a focus on connections between Jewish and Christian traditions. Episodes such as 'Two Mountains, One Spirit' delve into the theological parallels between Shavuot and Pentecost, examining shared concepts of revelation and covenant through scriptural references.

Join two “Faithful Friends”–faithful to G-d, and good friends, Rabbi Edelstein and Anthony Cullen, as they try to better understand themselves by understanding each other. As clergy (or clergy-in-the making for Anthony), they are building bridges in the community; as friends, they are really just two theology and religion nerds who want to have interesting conversations and thought other folks might be interested to hear them too.
📌 Episode Summary:
In this episode, Rabbi Edelstein and Anthony dive deep into the delicate—and sometimes uncomfortable—topic of correcting others within the framework of Jewish and Catholic moral teaching.
Is it ever our place to call someone out? When do religious traditions encourage us to step in, and when are we called to step back? Drawing from Scripture, Rabbinic wisdom, and Church teaching, this episode explores:
- The Jewish concept of tochacha (rebuke with love)
- The Catholic practice of fraternal correction
- Boundaries between law, judgment, and mercy
- What the Catechism and Talmud really say about calling someone to account
- Practical tips for how (and when) to lovingly correct others in today’s world
- Why silence can sometimes be more harmful than confrontation
🔦 Key Quotes:
🕍 “Correction without compassion becomes criticism. But when it’s done in love, it becomes an invitation to grow.” – Rabbi Chaim – Rabbi
⛪ “Fraternal correction isn’t about shaming—it’s about restoring the truth in love.” – Anthony
✨ Takeaway Challenge:
This week, think about one moment where correction might actually be an act of mercy. Can you approach it with humility, prayer, and courage?
📚 Mentioned in This Episode:
- Leviticus 19:17 – “You shall not hate your brother in your heart. You shall surely rebuke your neighbor…”
- Matthew 18:15–17 – Jesus’ steps for correction within the Church
- Catechism of the Catholic Church §1829, §1435, §1868
- Talmud, Tractate Bava Metzia 31a – Ethical rebuke and responsibility
- Teachings of Pope Benedict XVI and Maimonides (Rambam) on moral guidance
🙌 Stay Connected:
📧 Email us: [email protected]
📲 Follow us on Instagram: @faithfulfriends_podcast
🎙️ Recorded live at Temple Beth Ahm, Aberdeen, NJ

Disclaimer
This podcast’s information is provided for general reference and was obtained from publicly accessible sources. The Podcast Collaborative neither produces nor verifies the content, accuracy, or suitability of this podcast. Views and opinions belong solely to the podcast creators and guests.
For a complete disclaimer, please see our Full Disclaimer on the archive page. The Podcast Collaborative bears no responsibility for the podcast’s themes, language, or overall content. Listener discretion is advised. Read our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy for more details.