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Cocktail Theology

Cocktail Theology

By: Benton Stokes & Dr. Elane O'Rourke
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Life and God from a very broadly Christian perspective, with no filter, over cocktails. Progressive, Biblically grounded, LGBTQ-affirming, candid discussions about faith, life, politics, roller coasters, sex, and anything else that matters. ABOUT THE HOSTS Benton Stokes is a songwriter, a recording artist, an author, a worship leader, a podcaster, a collector of comic books, a lover of roller coasters, a dad, a friend, and (with ministry partner Elane O'Rourke) half of School For Seekers. Benton has a passion for helping post-Evangelicals, particularly queer men, find their way to healthy theology and healing perspectives. Benton co-hosts (with Elane) Cocktail Theology — a podcast that tackles topics such as defining what an abomination actually is, exploring why Christians and science are at odds all the time, and reclaiming Christian-ese language like "born again." All while sipping tasty libations. Rev. Dr. Elane O'Rourke is a spiritual director, lifelong teacher, theologian, mom, contemplative, Enneagram 1, and a bunch of the things Benton wrote. She was a philosophy prof for a decade, a pastor for another decade, and the instigator of School For Seekers since 2014. Elane's first book was A Dallas Willard Dictionary, written to explain the difficult words of Christian philosopher Dallas Willard, which may explain her role in the podcast she co-hosts with Benton, Cocktail Theology. Elane's deepest desire, and life's work, is for you to believe that you are God's cherished and beloved child, worthy of care and respect. For more information about Cocktail Theology, or its sponsor, School For Seekers, visit www.schoolforseekers.com(c) 2023 School For Seekers, Inc. Christianity Spirituality
Episodes
  • The Modern Conundrum of Christian Patriotism

    The Modern Conundrum of Christian Patriotism
    Jul 2 2026

    Elane and Benton sip on a summer-ready Pineapple Daiquiri while tackling a difficult question: what does it mean to be patriotic in an era of rising Christian nationalism? They explore how the core tenets of Christianity—loving God and loving your neighbor—must challenge the exclusionary views of modern nationalism, and why choosing the way of Jesus means fighting for the dignity of everyone.

    Cocktail: Pineapple Daiquiri

    Theme song: "Moving On (Feels Pretty Good)" recorded by Benton Stokes. Find Benton's songs wherever you listen to music online.
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    22 mins
  • From Healing To Living Well

    From Healing To Living Well
    Jul 9 2026

    Benton and Elane discuss an ongoing cultural and spiritual shift: moving away from the idea that we are all inherently broken and in need of constant healing. Tracing the concept of brokenness back to original sin, they discuss how we can shift our focus from victimhood toward actionable spiritual practices and trade the endless search for healing for the proactive pursuit of wholeness and living well.

    Cocktail: Pomegranate Lemonade

    Theme song: "Moving On (Feels Pretty Good)" recorded by Benton Stokes. Find Benton's songs wherever you listen to music online.
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    28 mins
  • Serpents And Doves

    Serpents And Doves
    Jun 25 2026

    Benton and Elane tackle a difficult biblical dilemma: what does it really mean to be "wise as serpents" and "gentle as doves" in the modern world? Sparked by the frustrations of California's primary elections and the everyday ethics of corporate boycotts, they explore how people of faith can balance strategic thinking with vulnerable integrity.

    Cocktail: Eeyore's Requiem

    Theme song: "Moving On (Feels Pretty Good)" recorded by Benton Stokes. Find Benton's songs wherever you listen to music online.
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    23 mins
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