Podcasts about monastic

Monks and money don't seem to go together—but maybe they should. Early Christian monastics developed a biblical approach to possessions that offered freedom from fear and created space for generosity. Their example continues to resonate with believers navigating modern financial pressures.Dr. Shane Enete, Chair of the Finance Department at Biola University, joins the show today to help us explore what he calls “monk finances,” drawing on early Christian history to uncover insights that remain strikingly relevant today.Why Monks and Finances Feel Like OppositesFor many people, the idea of monks and money in the same sentence feels contradictory. That perception has historical roots.In the early centuries of the church, some believers reacted to growing spiritual complacency by withdrawing from society. These early monks sought lives of radical devotion and discipline. In extreme cases, they rejected material possessions entirely, viewing the physical world—and even the body itself—as spiritually dangerous.But this wasn't the final word on monastic life.Leaders like St. Anthony and St. Benedict helped reshape the movement. They recognized that God created the material world before the fall; therefore, possessions, work, and even money could be used for His glory. Instead of rejecting material things, they began developing thoughtful, disciplined ways to steward them.Out of that shift came a surprisingly rich theology of money.Recovering a Biblical View of PossessionsAs monastic communities formed, they began to rethink how Christians should live with resources.Rather than treating money as evil, they saw it as necessary for life—but not as a source of identity or security. Their approach emphasized moderation, equality, and shared responsibility.Their guiding principle was simple: Meet your needs, then help meet the needs of others.Money became a tool for self-sufficiency that led to hospitality, not a means of achieving independence from God. This perspective echoed the Apostle Paul's teaching to the early church, especially in communities wrestling with wealth and inequality.In many ways, the monks' worldview stands in contrast to modern financial culture. Where today's systems often prioritize accumulation and long-term personal security, the monastic tradition emphasized dependence on God and care for neighbor.Economic Sufficiency vs. Economic SecurityOne of the most striking insights from monastic life is the distinction between economic sufficiency and economic security.The monks worked hard. They cultivated gardens, produced goods, and provided for themselves. But they intentionally stopped short of building wealth for personal protection. Their goal was sufficiency—having enough to live and to share.A well-known story about St. Anthony illustrates this progression. After initially living in isolation, he began growing food to avoid burdening others. Eventually, he expanded his efforts to feed visitors and care for those who came seeking wisdom. His work produced enough for his needs and created margin for generosity. That pattern shaped monastic communities:Work diligentlyMeet basic needsCreate marginPractice hospitalityThey believed the danger came when financial planning shifted from provision to self-protection—when wealth began to replace trust in God.Guarding the Heart from the Love of MoneyMonks viewed wealth with a sober realism. They saw it as useful but spiritually risky.Money, they believed, has a way of whispering false assurances: “You're safe. You're secure. You don't need God.”To guard against this, monastic communities developed “rules of living”—structured rhythms that shaped how they worked, spent, and shared. These practices served as guardrails, protecting their hearts from drifting into consumption and self-reliance.The goal wasn't deprivation. It was clarity. They wanted money to remain a servant, never a master.The Power of an “Economy of Excess”One of the most compelling ideas to emerge from monastic life is what might be called an “economy of excess.”In many monasteries, individuals were trained not to consume everything they were given. Instead, they intentionally left a portion unused—placing it at the center of the table for others.Imagine a community of dozens of people, each holding back a small amount. The result was abundance. Tables overflowed, and anyone in need could be cared for.This practice created margin without requiring wealth.It also mirrors biblical principles found throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, landowners were instructed not to harvest their fields to the edges so the poor could gather what remained. The design was intentional: leave space for others, and generosity becomes woven into everyday life.When consumption stops short of the limit, community flourishes.Freedom from Financial AnxietyThe monks' approach offers a powerful corrective to modern financial anxiety.Today's culture often promotes endless striving—more income, more savings, more security. Yet the pursuit rarely ends. Wants expand, expectations rise, and contentment slips further away.Monastic wisdom points in another direction: simplify, define “enough,” and trust God with the rest.There is a surprising freedom in that posture. When life is not driven by maximizing consumption, gratitude grows. When security is not tied solely to accounts and assets, dependence on God deepens.Their example reminds us that peace is not found in having everything, but in needing less and sharing more.What We Can Learn TodayThe monks did not reject money. They reoriented it. They used resources to:Depend on GodCare for their communitiesPractice hospitalityServe the poorTheir lives challenge modern assumptions about success, security, and sufficiency. They invite believers to examine not just how money is used, but what role it plays in shaping the heart.Perhaps their most enduring lesson is this: Financial wisdom is not measured by accumulation, but by alignment—with God, with others, and with the purposes of His Kingdom.Ancient as it may seem, that vision speaks directly to our moment.———————————————————————————————————————Dr. Shane Enete's full article, “Monk Finances: The Economic Brilliance of Early Christian Monks,” appears in the latest issue of Faithful Steward magazine. When you become a FaithFi Partner with a monthly gift of $35 (or $400 annually), you'll receive Faithful Steward magazine and other exclusive resources to help you grow as a faithful steward. Visit FaithFi.com/Partner to learn more.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm working with a new financial advisor who's recommending an Allianz Index Advantage Plus annuity. He says it offers downside protection, no fees to us, and growth potential with gains that can be locked in several times a year. I'm not familiar with this—what should I know?My mom, my sister, and I all own a home together. When my mom passes away, will her share automatically be divided between us, or does something else happen legally?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Monk Finances: The Economic Brilliance of Early Christian Monks - Article by Dr. Shane Enete - Faithful Steward: Issue 4)Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful StewardshipWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. 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Talk given by Padmasagara on 2026-01-17.What does it really mean to commit your life to something? And what might a commitment to a Buddhist way of life look like today?In this talk, Padmasagara reflects on the Triratna approach to ordination, an ordination described as being neither monastic nor lay. Drawing on his own experience of training and ordination, including the four-month ordination course in Spain, he explores the inspiration, challenges, and transformation involved in making such a commitment.Enjoyed this talk? You are warmly invited to visit Buddhistisches Tor Berlin in Kreuzberg in person. Join us for meditation, Dharma talks, and courses that support practice in everyday life. Find out more at: ☸️ https://buddhistisches-tor-berlin.de 

Episode #471: Sebastian Copija's journey from being a Buddhist monk to embracing lay life is a story of deep introspection and balance. Monastic life had afforded him security and structure, but Sebastian felt detached from the broader world. So after ten years as a monk in Thailand and Myanmar, he disrobed, and returned to Europe to care for his parents.Lay life introduced him to new ways to apply his practice, including re-engaging in relationships. The challenges of navigating the strong and sometimes messy emotions that often accompany social and personal interactions has become an essential aspect of his practice, testing his ability to stay open-hearted amidst everyday struggles. He speaks of his present, romantic relationship as a spiritual partnership, focusing on mutual support and non-attachment.Sebastian emphasizes that the lay path is not a lesser one, requiring mindfulness and insight just as being a monastic does. He is now a lay Dhamma teacher in Poland, focusing on integrating mindfulness into daily life and creating supportive community environments where students openly share their challenges and growth. “When you disrobe, it's just gone! Ten years of your life is gone, and suddenly, the only thing you have is the clarity of the Dhamma you've developed. It's not the robes that define my practice but the application of Dhamma to every moment of life.”

Homily: The Sunday after Theophany Hebrews 13:7–16; Matthew 4:12–17 This homily explores repentance as the doorway from darkness into light, and from spiritual novelty into mature faithfulness. Rooted in Hebrews and the Gospel proclamation after Theophany, it calls Christians to become not sparks of passing enthusiasm, but enduring flames shaped by grace, sacrifice, and hope in the coming Kingdom. ---- Today's Scripture readings give us three interrelated truths—three movements in the life of salvation and theosis. First: darkness and light. Second: repentance as the way from darkness into light. Third: what children of the light actually do once they have been illumined.  Point One: Darkness and Light In today's Gospel, St Matthew quotes the prophet Isaiah: "The people who sat in darkness saw a great light; and upon those who sat in the region and shadow of death, light has dawned." This is not merely a poetic description of history. It is a diagnosis of the human heart. Scripture teaches us that our calling as human beings—our calling as Christians—is to become "children of the light and children of the day." Light is not something we admire from a distance. It is something we are meant to live in, to be shaped by, and to reflect. Darkness, in Scripture, is not simply ignorance. It is disorder. It is the twisting of desire. It is the heart turned inward on itself. And Christ comes—not merely to expose darkness—but to heal us of it. That is why today's epistle begins by reminding us: "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith." (Hebrews 13:7) Light becomes visible in lives that endure. The Christian life is not meant to flash briefly and disappear. God desires something steadier—not sparks, but flames. Point Two: Repentance — Leaving the Darkness Immediately after this proclamation of light, Christ begins His preaching with a single command: "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." If we want to be part of the Light of Perfection, then the darkness in our lives and in our souls must be removed. Repentance is not optional. It is the doorway into illumination. Here we must confront a deep confusion in our culture—and often in our own hearts. We have the relationship between happiness and goodness exactly backwards. We tend to think: "It is good for me to be happy." And then we go looking for ways to become happy. But Scripture teaches the opposite: Happiness is not the path to goodness. Goodness is the path to real happiness. The epistle warns us: "Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings; for it is well that the heart be strengthened by grace, not by foods." (Hebrews 13:9) Indulgence does not strengthen the heart. Novelty does not strengthen the heart. Only grace does.  There is a danger here for neophytes because Orthodox is novel for them; there is an experiential conflation of the happiness that comes from new fascinations and their new connection with The Good Itself.  More on this in a moment. Back to repentance.  Repentance is how the heart is strengthened. It is how the flickering light of intention becomes steady. The iterated acts of repentance that constitute the Christian life is how God turns sparks into flames. Repentance and Tears This will bring tears.  Christ does not say, "You have suffered enough—come get comfortable in the light." He says, "Repent." Repentance is rarely pleasant. We do not repent because it makes us happy, although it occasionally will in the short term; again, because of our fascination with things that are new and shiny. But regardless, we do not repent for happiness; we repent because the darkness that has accumulated in our souls cannot survive in the presence of the Light and we want to grow in that light.  And that is going to involve suffering on account of the darkness that is within us; a darkness that has often come to define us. The epistle reminds us: "So Jesus also suffered outside the gate in order to sanctify the people through his own blood. Therefore let us go forth to him outside the camp, and bear the abuse he endured." (Hebrews 13:12–13) Repentance means leaving what is familiar and comfortable. It means stepping outside the camp. It means allowing the old life to die so that a new one can endure. Point Three: What Children of the Light Do Christ does not defeat the devil in the wilderness and then rest. He immediately begins His ministry. And so must we. We do not hide the light God has given us. We let it shine. And because we have been given different gifts, we shine in different ways. But we must be clear about the direction of this life: "For here we have no lasting city, but we seek the city which is to come." (Hebrews 13:14) Children of the light do not live for momentary brightness. They live toward the Kingdom. God is not basing the establishment of His Kingdom on bright flashes of enthusiasm; He is forming it on the constancy of the saints—not sparks, but flames. Marriage, Monasticism, and Mature Joy Many people experience spiritual puppy love when they first encounter Christ and His Church. And thanks be to God for that—it is a real gift. But puppy love is not the same thing as mature love. The Church teaches this most clearly through marriage and monasticism. Marriage matures love through patience, forgiveness, sacrifice, and daily fidelity. Monastic life matures love through obedience, stability, and perseverance. Both proclaim the same truth: love becomes real when it stops being about how we feel and starts being about who we are becoming. Hebrews names this life plainly: "Through him let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God… Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (Hebrews 13:15–16) This is the rhythm of mature Christian life—ordinary faithfulness, repeated again and again, until the light no longer flickers but until we all bear and share the eternal flame that is God's energies, constantly working through us and transforming us and this world towards His perfection in an ending tide of theosific grace. This is how Christ forms His people: not sparks, but flames. The Call All of us are called to worship, and if we are new to this the spark of our participation is infinitely greater than the darkness we once new — but it is still only the beginning of life in Christ. We have been given great gifts—individually and as a parish. We must guard against using them just to make ourselves feel good, and start using them to bring light. May Christ, the Light who has dawned upon us, make us children of the day— no longer sparks, but flames. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.  

Send us a textA blaze of charity once lit the Irish plains, and its warmth can still transform our kitchens, calendars, and communities. We dive into the life of Saint Brigid of Ireland—her fearless generosity, the double monastery at Kildare, and the miracles that turned scarcity into a living lesson in trust. From butter stretched for crowds to beer that never ran dry, her stories point to a deeper truth: when love opens the door, grace fills the table.We walk through Brigid's roots and the tensions that forged her courage, then explore how Kildare became a sanctuary where no one was turned away. Along the way we unpack the symbolism of Brigid's Cross and why so many homes still hang it over doorways as a sign of protection and welcome. You'll get practical ways to celebrate her February first feast—with candles, simple meals, and an extra seat reserved for the unexpected guest—plus ideas to carry her spirit into Lent with thoughtful almsgiving, quiet service, and a trust that small offerings multiply.At the heart of the conversation is a Eucharistic vision: the altar and the hearth reflecting one another, each meal a chance to honor the presence of Christ in every person. We share how to make everyday meals a ministry, why “let no guest leave unblessed” still changes neighborhoods, and even a rustic bannock bread recipe you can bake as a prayer. If your soul longs for a faith that feeds, heals, and welcomes, this is a map for turning belief into bread and words into warmth.If the story moves you, subscribe, share this episode with a friend who loves Irish saints, and leave a review to help others find it. Set a candle tonight and choose one act of welcome this week—then tell us how grace showed up at your door.Saint Brigid of Ireland CollectionOpen by Steve Bailey Support the showDownload Journeys of Faith Free App link. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/journeys-of-faith/id6757635073 Journeys of Faith brings your Super Saints Podcasts ***Our Core Beliefs*** The Eucharist is the Source and Summit of our Faith." Catechism 132 Click Here “This is the will of God, your sanctification.” 1Thessalonians 4“ Click Here ... lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven...” Matthew 6:19-2 Click Here The Goal is Heaven Click Here Please consider subscribing to this podcast or making a donation to Journeys of Faith we are actively increasing our reach and we are seeing good results for visitors under 40! Help us Grow! Buy Me a cup of Coffee...

Brought to you by Up! The Bank That's Got Young Aussies' Backs...Chris White is a former pro bodyboarder, jujitsu black belt, Ninja Warrior contestant, high level skater, and mastermind behind the cult bodyboard film series, Tension (Watch Tension 11 here).See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reviewing the highlights of chapter 5.

This week, we share a special year-end conversation between Krista Cocozello (the new host of Corhaven Retreat Center) and Bill Haley. They reflect on some of the big and small things that God worked in and through Coracle in 2025, before looking ahead to 2026, casting a compelling vision for the Coracle Community, the Center of Formation For Action, and Corhaven.2025 HighlightsA Year-End Letter from Bill“Build the Fire: Coracle's Vision for 2025”inthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleRecorded 12/9/25Support the show

Ajahn Nyanarato gave this Dhamma talk on 13 November 2025 at Amaravati Buddhist Monastery, UK. The post Monastic Training appeared first on Amaravati Buddhist Monastery.

Send us a textIn this podcast from the Village Church in Tucson, Pastor Eric Cepin concludes the A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission series with a focus on prayer, both speaking and listening. He reflects on how the Trinity shapes the practice of prayer, highlighting that we pray by the Spirit, through the Son, and to the Father. He guides listeners to see prayer not as a formula, but as relational communion within the life of God.Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a text In this episode from the Village Church sermon series, Pastor Eric continues the journey through A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission by reflecting on Rest. He names the cultural fixation on escape, “me time,” and wellness, then offers a biblical reorientation. Rest, he explains, is woven into our design. It is an invitation to cease, to reflect, to settle into what has already been accomplished, and to live within what is finished alongside our Creator. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a textPastor Eric Cepin continues the sermon series on a neo-monastic life on mission. In this podcast, he turns to the theme of servanthood. Eric explores the structure of being a servant, the identity that grows from it, and how God calls us into serving through the example of Jesus on the cross and in the resurrection. He also offers a set of questions you can use to reflect on what it means to become a servant to all. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Dandapani, former Hindu monk who lived monastically for 10 years, shares teachings from his guru on treating the mind as an operating system that must be understood before it can be mastered. He explains the critical distinction between a focused life (giving undivided attention to whoever/whatever you're engaged with) and a purpose-focused life (where your life's purpose defines priorities that drive what you focus on). Drawing from Napoleon Hill and his guru's book *Merging with Siva*, Dandapani unpacks sexual energy transmutation—asking: if one sperm created a person who could change the world, what could a million create if that energy were harnessed instead of wasted? He reveals monastic teachings rarely shared: how to sleep, wake, eat, breathe, sit, and shower to put energy back into your body. Dandapani argues that without understanding how your mind works, you can't focus long enough on yourself to achieve self-reflection and discover what you truly want—making intentionality impossible before mastering the fundamental operating system we all carry but were never taught to use. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a text In this episode of the Village Church podcast, Pastor Susan Cepin continues our conversation about A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission with a teaching on hospitality. She traces the generous way God welcomes His people and invites us to offer that same kind of welcome in our own lives. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a text In this podcast of The Village Church's sermons, Pastor Mark continues our series on A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission by reflecting on celebration and why it matters for the people of God. He explores how our culture tends to celebrate, how the Old Testament commands Israel to mark their life with feasts, how Jesus Himself participates in moments of joy, and how all of this points us toward the Wedding Feast of the Lamb. Mark also offers simple and practical ways we can practice celebration as a church community and as individuals. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a textIn this sermon from The Village Church's series A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission, Daniel McConnell reflects on the sacred act of eating together. He explores how meals are woven throughout Scripture and how God continually invites His people to share life around the table. At the heart of our faith is a meal—the body and blood of Christ. Daniel unpacks how something as simple as eating together has the power to transform us and shape us into the likeness of Jesus. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Episode #417: “There has been a massive lay critique of leading Buddhist monks that have been seen as pro-military… but to conclude that monks are either silent or pro-military is too hasty! What we actually see is polarization and division within the Saṅgha,” says Iselin Frydenlund, a professor of religion in Norway who has spent decades studying Buddhism and politics in Sri Lanka and Myanmar. One of her arguments is that the Saṅgha has never been truly unified. The coup simply shattered public illusions of unity, and that diversity and division have always marked monastic life in Myanmar. Frydenlund's second main point concerns a popular perception that the Saṅgha has been “captured” by the junta. She does admit that pro-junta monastic voices have drawn strength from decades of state patronage, forming what she and her colleagues call the “military-monastic complex.” But the reality is far more complex: not all monks are under the military's sway, and she stresses that even the reasons that pro-military monks support the junta are not monolithic. Some are certainly rabidly militaristic, but others simply fear chaos more than dictatorship; there are many others alleged to be complicit through their silence, but are just afraid, and others who resist quietly, sustaining the Vinaya and supporting the displaced. In the end, Frydenlund expresses concern that dismantling institutional Buddhism in a post-junta Myanmar would impoverish the Sāsana. She emphasizes that it has “has not gone away” even during the revolution, and remains central to its networks, ethics, and resilience. The future may bring new schisms, reforms, or survival strategies, but she insists that Buddhism will be an integral part of whatever shape the country takes. “Don't buy into this narrative that we all lose faith in Buddhism now, because it's a revolution,” she says. “Buddhism is still with us as this kind of personal practice, but it's also the realization of the Dhamma and the need for social justice that informs this societal engagement.”

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/gender-studies

Send us a text In this sermon podcast from The Village Church in Tucson, Pastor Eric continues our series on a neo-monastic life on mission by exploring the theme of blessing. He highlights three ways blessing is expressed in both the Old and New Testaments, seeing people, knowing people, and calling people out. Drawing from Genesis 1, Genesis 12, and several New Testament stories, he unfolds how these ideas shape our relationships and concludes with practical ways to live them out. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/east-asian-studies

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/buddhist-studies

Queens without a Kingdom worth Ruling: Buddhist Nuns and the Process of Change in Tibetan Monastic Communities is a fascinating study of nuns in the Tibetan Buddhist nunnery of Khachoe Ghakyil Ling in Kathmandu. Written by Dr. Chandra Chiara Ehm, who was a member of this monastic community for nearly a decade, it offers a rare perspective on life in a nunnery. The book explores nuns' lives, their studies, and their and aspirations--we see how young girls and women become nuns, what a day in the life is like, and how their scholastic study is structured, as well as some of the obstacles that the nuns much navigate. It also explores how recent changes in technology, demographics, and secular education are continuing to transform monastic life. This book is a rich and extremely readable blend of ethnographic detail, historical and textual background, and incisive analysis. It would make an excellent contribution to any syllabus on Tibetan Buddhism, women in Buddhism, or Buddhism and modernity. The author, Chandra Chiara Ehm, is a postdoctoral researcher at the the Ecole Francaise d'Èxreme Orient (EFEO) and the Centre de Recherche sur les Civilisations de l'Asie Orientale (CRCAO). She received her PhD in a double degree program in Buddhist Studies at the LMU in Munich and in anthropology at the Ecole Pratique des Hautes Etudes in Paris . She employs multiple academic methods--notably both philology and qualitative ethnographic work. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/religion

This week, we share a For the Journey exclusive conversation between Bill Haley and Jerome Daley, co-founder of the Vining Center. They discuss the dynamics of what some have dubbed the “evangelical exodus,” and Jerome shares about his work developing more mature Christian leaders and helping people recover from various forms of church hurt. Ultimately, they discuss their respective journeys to the contemplative tradition and how those journeys have deepened their love for and intimacy with Jesus.Learn More About Spiritual Direction through CoracleExplore Bill's Essential Christianity Book and Online Courseinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the show

Send us a textIn this week's episode of the Village Church in Tucson's Sermons podcast, Pastor Mark continues our series on A Neo-Monastic Life on Mission. He invites us to share our own stories, how Jesus has brought us out of darkness and into the light, and to celebrate the beauty of Christ's work in the lives of others. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a text In this message from our Neo-Monastic Life on Mission series, Pastor Eric looks at listening—why it matters, how it shapes us and the people we love, and why it sits at the heart of following Jesus. He offers simple, practical ways to slow down, attend to the Spirit, and honor the person in front of you. Tune in and take the next faithful step. Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a textIn this sermon, Pastor Mark continues our series on what a monastic community looks like when it lives on mission. Looking at the early church, he unpacks how the Spirit shaped their life together and challenges us to consider what it means to walk in step with the Holy Spirit todaySupport the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it might look like for a church to live as a neo-monastic community—rooted in ancient practices yet fully present in the streets and neighborhoods of our city? In this episode of the Village Church's sermon podcast, Pastor Eric opens a new series exploring just that.He lays the foundation for what this kind of life together means: not retreating from the world, but being woven into it with intention and prayer. Along the way, he shows how the Holy Spirit doesn't simply inspire our mission but actively directs and energizes it—guiding the Village as we learn to walk with one another, embody the gospel, and share life as a people set apart for love.Support the showThe Village Church's sermon podcast is more than just a weekly message. It is an invitation into the great and ongoing story of God's work in the world. Pastors Eric, Mark, Susan, Daniel, and other leaders open the Scriptures not as a collection of abstract ideas but as the living, breathing witness to God's kingdom breaking into our midst. Each episode is a call—not merely to listen, but to take part, to step forward into the life of faith with renewed vision and purpose. Week by week, the pastors and leaders explore the deep rhythms of Christian discipleship—prayer, fasting, generosity—not as isolated duties but as part of a larger, richer, and more beautiful whole. They unpack these ancient practices in light of Jesus himself, the one in whom heaven and earth have come together. But they also turn their attention to the realities of everyday life—relationships, finances, the struggles and joys of being human—demonstrating how the gospel is not merely about what we believe but about how we live as God's renewed people in the present age. The Village Churchvillagersonline@gmail.comMore information at www.villagersonline.com

Rev. Patrick Teverbaugh - Modern Zen's Monastic Roots

The Place of Sangha in Post-Monastic Zen Practice by Andrew Tootell

William Crawley examines the place of prayer in the aftermath of the school shooting that left two children dead and many injured. It comes as the Mayor of Minneapolis spoke out about the need for action rather than 'thoughts and prayers'. He hears about the threat to the future of theology courses at undergraduate level and asks if you put a theology degree to good use? Dame Jasvinder Sanghera and Yasmin Javed, whose daughter was murdered by her husband, discuss the importance of the government's new definition of honour-based crime. We hear the long-lost music of Buckland Abbey, discovered in a 500 year old book and brought back to life by a choir in 2025.The Bishop of Oxford has written an open letter to Nigel Farage after the leader of Reform announced his vision to crackdown on small boat crossings. Steven Croft is in discussion with Tim Montgomerie, activist and member of Reform about whether Christian values and migration measures are in tension.Presenter: Williams Crawley Producers: Catherine Murray & Bara'atu Ibrahim Production Coordinator: Paul Holloway Studio Managers: Adam Dolan & Nat Stokes Editor: Tim Pemberton

Part 2 with Greg Burdulis is here! In this follow-up conversation, we go even deeper—exploring: - What meditation really is and how it works - The relationship between meditation and mindfulness - Understanding mindfulness in everyday life We also talk about: - Self-love - Self-kindness - Self-compassion … and how to support yourself through life's most difficult moments. Greg shares wisdom on working with “unwanted” experiences—and how mindfulness can help us meet them with more ease and presence. Plus—you're invited to join us for a 5-minute guided meditation you can revisit anytime you need a quiet, undisturbed reset.Watch Greg's TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/greg_burdulis_the_power_of_presence Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregburdulis@gregburdulis

It's a pleasure to share a conversation with Ani Lodro Palmo, an ordained Tibetan Buddhist nun and Director of the Vajra Vidya Monastery in Crestone, Colorado; and a spiritual teacher and author with more than three decades of monastic experience. Ani has devoted her life to spiritual practice and shares her understanding of the Dharma as an author of the books, All That Appears & Exists: The Buddha's Teachings to Awaken the Heart and Turn Suffering Into Joy and her most recent, The End of Suffering: Finding Love, Self-Compassion, and Awakening in a Chaotic World. As a recognized teacher of Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and meditation, Ani Lodro's insights are deeply rooted in the unbroken lineage of Buddhist wisdom, through the Karma Kagyu lineage of The Venerable Khenchen Thrangu Rinpoche. Although Ani has decades of monastic experience within Tibetan Buddhism, she teaches how the frustrations and dissatisfaction of our everyday lives can be understood and transcended through wisdom and compassion. She writes and speaks in an accessible way, with the gentle encouragement of a friend that is helpful to both new seekers and seasoned practitioners alike. Her teachings are available through retreats, online sessions, and publications. In the conversation we talked about a wide range things, including: How we tend to misunderstanding what suffering is. Gurus and reincarnation as a part of Tibetan Buddhism, but not a necessary part. The Four Noble Truths as a path to awakening. Taking the mystique from karma, as Ani writes: "transforming [it] from an enigmatic doctrine into a practical guide for conscious existence…. rooted in intention and behavior." Her teaching of the "7 Simple Truths to End Suffering": (1) Thoughts are nothing, they are no things; (2) Labels and thoughts create our reality; (3) When we look for our thoughts, they aren't there; (4) Your beliefs are not truth; (5) Dropping attachments is the fastest way to end suffering; (6)You can't focus on helping others and be miserable at the same time; (7) You don't need your mind (as much as you think). ... And much more. I know you will enjoy Ani Lodro's easy and relatable style of teaching and be inspired by what she has to say.   Learn more about Ani Lodro Palmo: https://www.anilodroretreats.com/   Vajra Vidya Monsastery: https://vajravidya.com/   Buy her books The End of Suffering:  The End of Suffering All That Appears & Exists: All That Appears & Exists Journey Into Peace: Timeless Tales of Zen Buddhism: Journey Into Peace   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@anilodroretreats     Become a patron to support this podcast and get special member benefits, including a membership community, a virtual sangha, and a subscription to my Everyday Buddhism Substack:https://www.patreon.com/EverydayBuddhism     Check out my Substack for ongoing chapter releases of my new serial book, Living Life As It Is and the podcast, Words From My Teachers: https://wendyshinyohaylett.substack.com/   If this podcast has helped you understand Buddhism or help in your everyday life, consider making a one-time donation here: https://donorbox.org/podcast-donations   Support the podcast through the affiliate link to buy the book, Everyday Buddhism: Real-Life Buddhist Teachings & Practices for Real Change: Buy the book, Everyday Buddhism   Support the podcast and show your support through the purchase of Everyday Buddhism merch: https://www.zazzle.com/store/everyday_buddhism   NOTE: Free shipping on ALL (unlimited) items (Everyday Buddhism merch or gifts from other stores) if you join Zazzle Plus for $19.95/year: https://www.zazzle.com/zazzleplus

Join host Rachel Chen and special guest Bishop Andy Lewter, church historian and author of "Executive Privilege," for a fascinating exploration of one of Christianity's most influential yet overlooked movements - early monasticism.What You'll Discover: When Constantine legalized Christianity in 313 CE, it created an unexpected crisis: How do you maintain spiritual authenticity when your persecuted faith suddenly becomes the empire's favored religion? The answer came from an unlikely source - hermits fleeing to the Egyptian desert.We trace the remarkable journey from Anthony of Egypt's radical retreat into the wilderness through the development of the great medieval monastic orders that would shape European civilization. Learn how communities dedicated to prayer and poverty became the unlikely saviors of classical literature, preserving works by Aristotle, Cicero, and countless others during the collapse of the Roman Empire.Why It Matters: Without monasticism, we might have lost 90% of classical literature. These communities didn't just preserve books - they preserved the very idea that contemplation, learning, and service could create meaningful alternatives to worldly power.Perfect for history enthusiasts, students of Christianity, and anyone curious about how a few desert hermits accidentally became the guardians of Western civilization.

Part One is Live! Greg Burdulis on Monastic Life, Mindfulness & the Power of Presence In this first half of our two-part conversation, Greg Burdulis—former monk, speaker, and mindfulness mentor—shares what led him to spend seven years in silence and how that time reshaped his understanding of life, suffering, and joy. We talk about: -Life as a Monk  -Why mindfulness isn't about escaping pain -The beauty of ordinary moments -How to begin again—no matter your past Greg's wisdom is raw, grounding, and full of soul. Tune in for a conversation that invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and connect to what's real. Watch Greg's TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/greg_burdulis_the_power_of_presence Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregburdulis http://gregburdulis.com/

Many Catholics worry about praying the rosary “correctly.” But what if that's never what it was about? In this episode, we explore the two pillars the rosary was built on—loving repetition and meditation on Christ's life—and trace its roots back to the monastic Divine Office and Lectio Divina.The rosary is not a checklist. It's a spiritual love story, a rhythm of grace, and a doorway to contemplation.Learn how to pray it more deeply, debunk common myths, and discover how saints like Teresa of Avila can guide us toward a rosary that speaks back.

See all series | See all talksTeacher: Ajahn Kovilo, Ajahn Nisabho, Tuere Sala Date: 2025-07-13 Sunday Video Click here to view on Vimeo.

This week, we share a For the Journey exclusive conversation between Bill Haley and Bill Simmons, the President and CEO of Hope Rises International. They discuss Bill's new book, The Way of Interruption: Spiritual Practice for Organizational Life, which seeks to help business and ministry leaders incorporate ancient spiritual rhythms into the modern workplace.Explore More of Bill's Reflections from His SabbaticalLearn More About Spiritual Direction through Coracleinthecoracle.org  |  @inthecoracleSupport the show

A moving look to the profound beauty of a monk's final vow—an act of surrender and eternal commitment to Christ.Morning Offering, July 11, 2025For the repose of the soul of Pope Francis. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Every morning, join Father Brad as he begins the day with prayer and reflection. In a few short minutes, Father Brad guides you in prayer, shares a brief reflection grounding your day in the Church's rhythm of feast days and liturgy, and provides you with the encouragement necessary to go forward with peace and strength. Disclaimer: The ads shown before, during, or after this video have no affiliation with Morning Offering and are controlled by YouTubeLet us do as the saints urge and begin our days in prayer together so as a community of believers we may join the Psalmist in saying, “In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.” (Psalm 5:3-4)________________

Our hope is in Christ alone. Any promotion of works for salvation is blasphemy. No matter how impressive the music, smells, bells, or works, no one can find their final comfort in these things. When Luther completed the Smalcald Articles, there were forty-two other confessors of the faith who subscribed to his teachings. We continue to confess the same words because they are in accordance with God's Word, providing the full assurance of forgiveness in Christ and Christ alone! Rev. Ryan Fehrmann joins Rev. Brady Finnern to study monastic vows and human traditions. Find your copy of the Book of Concord - Concordia Reader's Edition at cph.org or read online at bookofconcord.org. Study the Lutheran Confession of Faith found in the Book of Concord with lively discussions led by host Rev. Brady Finnern, President of the LCMS Minnesota North District, and guest LCMS pastors. Join us as these Christ-confessing Concordians read through and discuss our Lutheran doctrine in the Book of Concord in order to gain a deeper understanding of our Lutheran faith and practical application for our vocations. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org. 

Send us a textToday on the podcast the guys sit down with JR Rosko to talk about the Order of the Common Life.Rev. Dr. J.R. Rozko is a seasoned pastor, educator, and missiologist dedicated to integrating theological formation with local church ministry. He holds a Doctorate in Missiology from Fuller Theological Seminary, focusing on missional ecclesiology.   He co-founded and served as National Director of Missio Alliance for over eight years.  Currently, he and his wife, Rev. Canon Amy Rozko, co-lead Common Life Church in Canton, Ohio, where J.R. serves as Pastor for Calling & Community Development.   J.R. is also a novitiate member of the Order of the Common Life, a global ecumenical religious order reimagining monastic formation in everyday life.  He, Amy, and their two daughters, Aubrey and Junia, reside in Canton, Ohio, where they are deeply involved in their local community and congregation. www.orderofthecommonlife.org

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Could modern monasticism and its role in today's church revitalize your faith?   Host Curtis Chang welcomes pastor and modern-day monastic Jared Boyd to explore the transformative power of modern monasticism. Discover how ancient spiritual practices are being revived through the Order of Common Life to renew the Church, strengthen clergy integrity, and address challenges that have led many toward deconstruction. Learn how intentional community and contemplative rhythms can foster deep spiritual growth and vibrant faith—offering a vision for the future of church renewal through monastic traditions.   Resources mentioned in this episode: About St. Benedict of Nursia About St. Francis of Assisi Phyllis Tickle's Divine Hours Phyllis Tickle defines Fixed-hour prayer Book of Common Prayer (online version) Rule of St. Benedict (pdf) Ralph Winter (Ralph D. Winter Research Center) Mother Teresa's A Dark Spiritual Life and Love of The Poor More from Jared Boyd: Order of Common Life  Jared's website Jared's Instagram Jared Boyd's Finding Freedom in Constraint: Reimagining Spiritual Disciplines as a Communal Way of Life Jared Boyd's Imaginative Prayer: A Yearlong Guide for Your Child's Spiritual Formation Good Faith Live “Watch Party”: Russell Moore, David French, & Curtis Chang: Trump's First 100 Days   Follow Us: Good Faith on Instagram Good Faith on X (formerly Twitter) Good Faith on Facebook   Sign up: Redeeming Babel Newsletter

"And so we are going to establish a school for the service of the Lord. In founding it we hope to introduce nothing harsh or burdensome. But if a certain strictness results… do not be at once dismayed and fly from the way of salvation, whose entrance cannot but be narrow." In this first of five episodes, we begin The Rule of St. Benedict, a foundational spiritual guide composed around 530 AD by St. Benedict of Nursia, the father of Western monasticism. In the Prologue, St. Benedict sets forth the Rule's purpose, followed by Chapters 1–7, in which he outlines the kinds of monks, the qualities of an abbot, the Instruments of Good Works as a monk's daily guide, and the Rule's core principles of obedience, silence, and humility. Episode 1: Ch. 1 - 7, with Prologue 00:00 Intro 00:38 Prologue    07:43 Chapter 1 - On the Kinds of Monks   09:51 Chapter 2 - What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be   16:43 Chapter 3 - On Calling the Brethren for Counsel   18:37 Chapter 4 - What Are the Instruments of Good Works   23:44 Chapter 5 - On Obedience   26:18 Chapter 6 - On the Spirit of Silence   27:50 Chapter 7 - On Humility This work will be released in its entirety in episodic format. Links St. Benedict's Rule for Monasteries full text: https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/50040/pg50040-images.html#chapter-1 SUBSCRIBE to Catholic Culture Audiobooks https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/catholic-culture-audiobooks/id1482214268 SIGN UP for Catholic Culture's newsletter http://www.catholicculture.org/newsletter DONATE at http://www.catholicculture.org/donate/audio Theme music: "2 Part Invention", composed by Mark Christopher Brandt, performed by Thomas Mirus. ©️2019 Heart of the Lion Publishing Co./BMI. All rights reserved.

This week we return to our ABC's of the Catholic Faith, and will be discussing M is for Monastic Life. Join us as we explore the lives of monks and nuns! +MONDAY: Life of Seclusion and Vows +TUESDAY: Community +WEDNESDAY: Rule of Life +THURSDAY: The Divine Office +FRIDAY: St. Anthony of Egypt (his story on his feast day!) Looking to get your Catholic Family back on track? Download the free Catholic Family Checklist here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/checklist Grab and full set of coloring pages for the ABC's of the Catholic Faith here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring   Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/  Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com 

  This week we return to our ABC's of the Catholic Faith, and will be discussing M is for Monastic Life. Join us as we explore the lives of monks and nuns! +MONDAY: Life of Seclusion and Vows +TUESDAY: Community +WEDNESDAY: Rule of Life +THURSDAY: The Divine Office +FRIDAY: St. Anthony of Egypt (his story on his feast day!) Looking to get your Catholic Family back on track? Download the free Catholic Family Checklist here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/checklist Grab and full set of coloring pages for the ABC's of the Catholic Faith here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring   Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/  Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com 

This week we return to our ABC's of the Catholic Faith, and will be discussing M is for Monastic Life. Join us as we explore the lives of monks and nuns! +MONDAY: Life of Seclusion and Vows +TUESDAY: Community +WEDNESDAY: Rule of Life +THURSDAY: The Divine Office +FRIDAY: St. Anthony of Egypt (his story on his feast day!) Looking to get your Catholic Family back on track? Download the free Catholic Family Checklist here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/checklist Grab and full set of coloring pages for the ABC's of the Catholic Faith here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring   Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/  Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com 

This week we return to our ABC's of the Catholic Faith, and will be discussing M is for Monastic Life. Join us as we explore the lives of monks and nuns! +MONDAY: Life of Seclusion and Vows +TUESDAY: Community +WEDNESDAY: Rule of Life +THURSDAY: The Divine Office +FRIDAY: St. Anthony of Egypt (his story on his feast day!) Looking to get your Catholic Family back on track? Download the free Catholic Family Checklist here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/checklist Grab and full set of coloring pages for the ABC's of the Catholic Faith here: https://catholicsprouts.myflodesk.com/podcastabccoloring   Find fun, meaningful, faith-filled projects for your own family in the Catholic Family Resource Library. https://catholicsprouts.com/catholic-family-resource-library-signup/  Catholic Sprouts is a production of Spoke Street Media. For more great Catholic podcasts, check out spokestreet.com