Podcasts about Monasticism

St. Pope John Paul II described monasticism as the "reference point for all the baptized." During this season, we return to our baptism through monasticism. Our special guest will explain.

James Wood joins Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley to discuss the influence of Constantine on Christianity.Questions Covered in This Episode:Who was Constantine? What was his relationship to Christianity in the ancient world?Did he really convert?What are the Christians of this time thinking about Constantine?How does Monasticism replace martyrdom?Is there a protestant approach to living in the tension?What are the goods of Christendom?How does this history shape our understanding of the competing perspectives on church and state today?What are faithful Christian perspectives of church and state?How would you contrast pagan Christianity from the kind of public Christian witness you advocate for?Explain the subordination of the secular.Guest Bio:James Wood is Associate Professor of Religion and Theology at Redeemer University, a teaching elder in the PCA, a cohost of Mere Fidelity Podcast and the Civitas Podcast, and has written and writes for a number of publications, including Plough, Comment, First Things, World, and Theopolis, among others. He holds a PhD in Theology from the University of Toronto, a Th.M. from Princeton Theological Seminary, an M.Div. from Reformed Theological Seminary. He is married to Clare, and they have five daughters.Helpful Definitions:Gelasian Dyarchy: The "two swords" doctrine.Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Romans 13, 1 Peter 2, Revelation 13“Defending Constantine” by Peter Leithart“Christ & Culture Revisited” by D.A. Carson“The Desire of the Nations” by Oliver O'Donovan“Institutes of the Christian Religion” by John Calvin“The Politics of Pagan Christianity” by James Wood Follow Us:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteOur Sister Podcast:Tiny TheologiansSupport Training the Church and Become a Patron:patreon.com/trainingthechurchYou can now receive your first seminary class for FREE from Midwestern Seminary after completing Lifeway's Deep Discipleship curriculum, featuring JT, Jen and Kyle. Learn more at mbts.edu/deepdiscipleship.To learn more about our sponsors please visit our sponsor page.Editing and support by The Good Podcast Co. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

From Visualized Church History (1942) by Sr. Mary Loyola Vath, O.P.For the illustrations, charts, and maps in the book, see https://archive.org/details/visualizedchurchhistoryPlease consider donating to help keep this podcast going by going to buymeacoffee.com/catholicdailybrief Also, if you enjoy these episodes, please give a five star rating and share the podcast with your friends and family

This is one of my unscripted Q&A episodes, where I answer questions submitted by listeners. If you have a question, go ahead and send it to me at zenstudiespodcast.com. I discuss: What does Kosho Uchiyama mean in his book Opening the Hand of Thought, when he talks about "settling as universal life?" Isn't the Zen emphasis on monastic practice and self-liberation at odds with the Bodhisattva Vow to free all beings? What can we learn from practicing with other Buddhist traditions than our own, and is this recommended if we don't live near a Zen center?

Wednesday Study, October 29, 2025 Teacher: Matthew Price

Tonight's episode takes us on a historical tour of monasticism, especially Catholic monasteries. I get that the topic of monasticism may sound at the same time random and particularly arid. But bear with me: I promise that if you are not familiar with it, you will discover a world of ideas, social experiments, spirituality, or controversies, that you did not realize you needed to know about. Give it a shot!You will learn what anchorites and cenobites are, how Christian monasticism appeared in the Third and Fourth Centuries AD, how monasteries became economic and intellectual centers in medieval times, what the rule of Saint Benedict is, and some of the most famous orders, such as the Benedictines, Cistercians and Trappists, Carthusians, Franciscans, Dominicans, and Carmelites. #sleep #bedtimestory #asmr #sleepstory #history Welcome to Lights Out Library Join me for a sleepy adventure tonight. Sit back, relax, and fall asleep to documentary-style bedtime stories read in a calming ASMR voice. Learn something new while you enjoy a restful night of sleep. Listen ad free and get access to bonus content on our Patreon: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.patreon.com/LightsOutLibrary621⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Listen on Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@LightsOutLibraryov⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   ¿Quieres escuchar en Español? Echa un vistazo a La Biblioteca de los Sueños! En Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1t522alsv5RxFsAf9AmYfg⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ En Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/la-biblioteca-de-los-sue%C3%B1os-documentarios-para-dormir/id1715193755⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ En Youtube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@LaBibliotecadelosSuenosov⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

St. Paisios provides guidance on essential questions about the inner life of thoughts that we deal with our entire lives. A reading from Spiritual Counsels, Vol. 3: Spiritual Struggle by St. Paisios, p. 62-760:12 Spiritual Life is Based on Thought8:03 Cultivating Good Thoughts12:07 The Purification of the Mind and the Heart14:28 We Must Not Be Suspicious21:23 Conversing with Thoughts24:30 Consenting to Thoughts

Capitalism: we hate it. It's taking over every section of life and commodifying the things we need to live. A lot of socialists talk about reviving and reclaiming the commons, and that sounds good to us, but what kind of institutions would we need to manage those commons? Don't worry, some economists have some ideas: monasticism. Read the article we're talking about in the show: https://revistes.ub.edu/index.php/HistoriaIndustrial/article/view/40930/40628Intro Music by Amaryah ArmstrongOutro music by theillogicalspoon https://theillalogicalspoon.bandcamp.com/track/hoods-up-the-low-down-technified-bluesSupport The Magnificast on Patreonhttp://patreon.com/themagnificastGet Magnificast Merchhttps://www.redbubble.com  

In our Season 2 finale, we learn about Christian women from late antiquity who sought to transform their bodies inside and out: ascetics and monastics. From fasting to renouncing sexual “appetites” to special clothing—there were lots of things that marked a monk. Dr. Rebecca Krawiec explains all of this and more.Why did women join monasteries? What do we do with those extreme stories of saints punishing their bodies? How can letters give us a more full understanding of women monastics? Who were Tappole and her sister Tsophia? Access full transcript and episode show notesWomen Who Went Before is written, produced, and edited by Rebekah Haigh and Emily Chesley.Music is composed and produced by Moses Sun.Sponsored by the Center for Culture, Society, and Religion, the Program in Judaic Studies, the Stanley J. Seeger Center for Hellenic Studies, and the Committtee for the Study of Late Antiquity at Princeton University.Views expressed on the podcast are solely those of the individuals, and do not represent Princeton University.

He was the pagan jailkeeper who guarded St Laurence (see August 10); seeing his prisoner's holiness and the wonders wrought by him, Hippolytus was convinced of the truth of the Faith and became a Christian. When St Laurence baptized him, he was granted a vision of heaven and said 'I see innocent souls in great joy.' He took Laurence into his own home, and his entire household were baptized, nineteen in all.   When St Laurence was martyred, Hippolytus retrieved his body by night and buried it. He was detected and brought before the Emperor Valerian on the third day after Laurence's death. Despite severe beatings he would not renounce his faith. The Emperor ordered that he be stripped and flayed but, standing naked before the emperor, Hippolytus said 'You have not stripped me, but have begun to clothe me.' Despite all torments, neither Hippolytus nor any of his household would deny Christ. All of his household were slain, one by one, before Hippolytus. Finally Hippolytus himself was bound behind a wild horse and dragged to death. Our Holy Mother the Empress Irene (Xenia in Monasticism) (12th c.) She was the pious wife of the Emperor John II Comnenus (reigned 1118-1143), but retired into monastic life. She founded the Monastery of the Pantokrator in Constantinople.

He was the pagan jailkeeper who guarded St Laurence (see August 10); seeing his prisoner's holiness and the wonders wrought by him, Hippolytus was convinced of the truth of the Faith and became a Christian. When St Laurence baptized him, he was granted a vision of heaven and said 'I see innocent souls in great joy.' He took Laurence into his own home, and his entire household were baptized, nineteen in all.   When St Laurence was martyred, Hippolytus retrieved his body by night and buried it. He was detected and brought before the Emperor Valerian on the third day after Laurence's death. Despite severe beatings he would not renounce his faith. The Emperor ordered that he be stripped and flayed but, standing naked before the emperor, Hippolytus said 'You have not stripped me, but have begun to clothe me.' Despite all torments, neither Hippolytus nor any of his household would deny Christ. All of his household were slain, one by one, before Hippolytus. Finally Hippolytus himself was bound behind a wild horse and dragged to death. Our Holy Mother the Empress Irene (Xenia in Monasticism) (12th c.) She was the pious wife of the Emperor John II Comnenus (reigned 1118-1143), but retired into monastic life. She founded the Monastery of the Pantokrator in Constantinople.

Strength to Strength welcomed David Anderson for a discussion of what monasticism contributes to a holistic and healthy life.In its best form, monasticism was a form of resistance: not just against compromise in the church, but against hurry, distraction, and disordered desire in the soul.This episode explores the history of monasticism and what it offers today: not escape, but attention; not performance, but formation. Through rhythm, prayer, and ordered love, monks sought to become fully alive to God. In this episode, we will explore how their wisdom still speaks to our distracted and restless age.An interactive question-and-answer period follows.

Inspired by the Good Faith podcast, ER doctor Andy embarks on a transformative journey from the high-stakes of the emergency room to a profound spiritual rediscovery and move to seek out a real life faith community.   Good Faith's series of Campfire Stories, invites listeners to share how the podcast has inspired them to engage deeply with their families and communities. These personal narratives illuminate how individuals like you are grappling with complex issues and fostering meaning right where they live. Join us for Andy's Campfire Story.   Send your Campfire Stories to: info@redeemingbabel.org

The post Lesson 5: Monasticism and Missions appeared first on Calvary Community Church.

Ritual, Wisdom, and What's Lost Sebastian Morello was trained in philosophy by Sir Roger Scruton and Andrew Pinsent. He is a lecturer, columnist, and popular public speaker in the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. Morello has previously co-authored books on subjects of philosophy and education. He lives in Bedfordshire, England, with his wife and children.   Each quarter, John engages in thought-provoking extended conversations with a leading expert in psychology, philosophy, and spirituality. Each season offers a unique exploration, bringing together their diverse fields of knowledge to create fresh insights and understanding. These in-depth discussions, chaptered for your convenience, offer nuanced perspectives and integrative approaches to navigating our complex world.   The first episode is free and publicly available. To follow the rest of the season as well as gain access to previous discussions, you can sign up at the Beta Tier (and above) on The Lectern at the Lectern Lounge.   If you would like to donate purely out of goodwill to support John's work, please consider joining our Patreon. The Vervaeke Foundation is committed to advancing the scientific pursuit of wisdom and creating a significant impact on the world. Learn more about our work.    If you would like to learn and engage regularly in practices that are informed, developed and endorsed by John and his work, visit Awaken to Meaning's calendar to explore practices that enhance your virtues and foster deeper connections with reality and relationships. Join Practice.   John Vervaeke: Website | Twitter | YouTube | Patreon   Sebastian Morello: LinkedIn | The Gnostalgia Podcast   "What practices and philosophical frameworks can help us recover a sense of the sacred in an age dominated by disenchantment and institutional collapse?" John Vervaeke and Sebastian Morello engage in an expansive dialogue that traverses the authority crisis in the Catholic Church, the enduring wisdom of Neoplatonism, and the transformative power of Hermetic practices. Anchored in Morello's provocative new book, Mysticism, Magic and Monasteries, the conversation unpacks the “double crisis” of our time- one of meaning and one of sanctity, and argues that modernity functions like a spell that must be broken. Together, they examine how monasticism once offered a stable and embodied sanctity, and why recovering mysticism, ritual magic (in the Hermetic sense), and lived devotion might be essential for collective reawakening.  Notes:  (0:00) Welcome to The Lectern (0:30) John reconnects with Sebastian Morello  (3:00) Sebastian Gives a Brief Introduction of Himself (6:00) Diagnosing the Double Crisis - Meaning and Authority (9:00) Critique of Modernity and the Catholic Church (12:00) The Loss of Embodied Wisdom in the West (20:00) Neoplatonism and the Need for Relational Ontology (26:30) Philosophical Anthropology and Cosmic Personhood (31:00) Modernity's Ontological Truncation (38:30) Sacred Authority and the Failures of Clericalism (42:00) Monasteries as Alternatives to Institutional Collapse (49:00) Christian Liturgy as Baptized Theurgy (54:00) Hermetic Cognition - Practicing the Theocentric Vision (1:00:00) Recovering Sacred Imagery - Tarot, Ritual, and Mystical Space (1:04:00) Digital Gnosticism and the Threat to Embodiment (1:07:00) The Future of Privacy - Personhood, Property, and Charity (1:11:00) The Philosophical Silk Road - East-West Interpenetration  

His name in his native Coptic, Pachom, means "eagle." He was an Egyptian pagan who entered the Roman army at a young age. While quartered at Thebes, he was amazed at the kindness of the local Christians, who brought food and drink to the soldiers. Learning who they were, he believed in Christ and vowed, once released from the army, to serve him for the rest of his life. At the end of his military service, he was baptised and became the disciple of the hermit Palamon, with whom he lived for ten years.   At a place called Tabennisis an angel appeared to him dressed in the robes of a monk and gave him a tablet on which was written a rule for a cenobitic monastery — one in which the brethren live communally rather than as hermits, something that had not been seen before among Christians. The angel commanded him to found such a monastery. Pachomius set to work, building many cells though there was no one to live there but himself and his brother John. When John questioned the unnecessary building, Pachomius only said that he was following God's command, without saying who would live there or when.   But soon men began to assemble there, and in time so many came to be his disciples that he eventually founded nine monasteries housing thousands of monks. The rule that he gave (or had been given) for these monasteries became the model for all communal Christian monasticism thereafter. St Pachomius reposed in 346, before his great Egyptian fellow-strugglers St Anthony the Great and St Athanasius the Great.   Entertaining angels unawares: Christian believers' simple acts of kindness toward their pagan oppressors may have seemed foolish to many, but it was such acts that opened the eyes of Pachomius to the light of Christ, and which bore incalculably great fruit: the founding of the monastic life which is still the backbone of Christ's Church.

His name in his native Coptic, Pachom, means "eagle." He was an Egyptian pagan who entered the Roman army at a young age. While quartered at Thebes, he was amazed at the kindness of the local Christians, who brought food and drink to the soldiers. Learning who they were, he believed in Christ and vowed, once released from the army, to serve him for the rest of his life. At the end of his military service, he was baptised and became the disciple of the hermit Palamon, with whom he lived for ten years.   At a place called Tabennisis an angel appeared to him dressed in the robes of a monk and gave him a tablet on which was written a rule for a cenobitic monastery — one in which the brethren live communally rather than as hermits, something that had not been seen before among Christians. The angel commanded him to found such a monastery. Pachomius set to work, building many cells though there was no one to live there but himself and his brother John. When John questioned the unnecessary building, Pachomius only said that he was following God's command, without saying who would live there or when.   But soon men began to assemble there, and in time so many came to be his disciples that he eventually founded nine monasteries housing thousands of monks. The rule that he gave (or had been given) for these monasteries became the model for all communal Christian monasticism thereafter. St Pachomius reposed in 346, before his great Egyptian fellow-strugglers St Anthony the Great and St Athanasius the Great.   Entertaining angels unawares: Christian believers' simple acts of kindness toward their pagan oppressors may have seemed foolish to many, but it was such acts that opened the eyes of Pachomius to the light of Christ, and which bore incalculably great fruit: the founding of the monastic life which is still the backbone of Christ's Church.

What happens when the contemplative life collides with the chaos of the city? In this episode, we explore the Urban Monastic Movement—a growing call for believers to reclaim rhythms of prayer, silence, simplicity, and community right in the heart of urban life. Learn how ancient spiritual practices are being revived in modern contexts, and why this movement may be key to shaping the future of the Church in our cities.

Ouzo Talk journeys to the historic and holy peninsula of Mount Athos for episode 80 to discover the history, relics, Saints and mystique behind this unique monastic community. From the belt of the Virgin Mary and the hand of Mary Magdalene, to stories of a far-right, anarchist Monastery in the area, this is a must-listen. With renowned academic Vasilias Adrahtas as our guide, Tom and Nick are left in awe of the significant relics and stories that have graced this small – but significant - part of the North of Greece for over a millennium.Send us a text Support the showEmail us at ouzotalk@outlook.comSubscribe to our Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@OuzoTalkFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OuzoTalkFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ouzo_talk/

This lecture is entitled The One Thing Necessary: Monasticism and Philosophy. It was presented by Prior Peter Funk, OSB of the Monastery of the Holy Cross, Chicago on October 4, 2023, at the Ruth Lake Country Club.

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

Babai the Great, a significant figure in the early Church of the East (c. 551–628), is presented as a transformative leader who systematically defined its unique Christology and vigorously reformed its monastic practices. His work during a period of both external political strain and internal theological disputes was foundational, establishing key doctrinal and disciplinary frameworks for centuries. Babai's extensive writings, ecclesiastical leadership, and spiritual guidance profoundly shaped East Syrian Christianity, a legacy still recognized today. He notably integrated medical knowledge into theological discussions and developed contemplative reading practices within the monastic tradition. For more in depth information go to our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Have a Social with the Saints! Receive encouragement for your daily life as we meet & discuss the twin sister of St. Benedict! Who was she? How will she help and inspire you? Be encouraged and inspired for your daily life! Get a free quote card and pamphlet of St. Scholastica here. We invite you to share them with friends and family. We want to hear from you! What struck you about St. Scholastica? Please send us your feedback to join the conversation by email at ministry@pilgrimcenterofhope.org The official Socials with the Saints theme song is “Hero's Ascent” by Chris Haugen. Used with permission. Thanks for listening and remember, you are never alone in the communion of the saints! May God bless you. Help us spread hope!  

Dr. Jenkins continues his investigation of western Monasticism by looking at the life of St. Patrick of Armagh (Ireland). Though a monk, St. Patrick is better known for his missionary work among the Irish, a people who once had been his masters.

Dr. Jenkins continues his investigation of western Monasticism by looking at the life of St. Patrick of Armagh (Ireland). Though a monk, St. Patrick is better known for his missionary work among the Irish, a people who once had been his masters.

This episode, beginning our podcast's fourth year, Dr. Jenkins begins our look at monasticism in the Latin west.

This episode, beginning our podcast's fourth year, Dr. Jenkins begins our look at monasticism in the Latin west.

Spiritual Practices of the Coptic Orthodox Church. There is a number of them, Faster, Liturgy, Monasticism, Bible Readings, Sunday School.  Gospel Reflection (John 6:5-14).

This episode Dr. Jenkins looks at the beginnings of monasticism in Asia Minor, with whom we rightly associate St. Basil the Great, but who was inspired by the wayward Eustathios of Sebastea.

This episode Dr. Jenkins looks at the beginnings of monasticism in Asia Minor, with whom we rightly associate St. Basil the Great, but who was inspired by the wayward Eustathios of Sebastea.

In episode THREE HUNDRED AND TEN, Mike, Jason, and Wade discuss monasticism. What was it? How did it start? Why did it matter? What were the problems with it, if there were any? What can we learn from it (and there's more than you might expect)? The guys discuss all this and more. We hope you enjoy the episode! Show Notes: Support 1517 Podcast Network 1517 Podcasts 1517 on Youtube 1517 Podcast Network on Apple Podcasts 1517 Events Schedule 1517 Academy - Free Theological Education What's New from 1517: Pre-order: Ditching the Checklist by Mark Mattes Broken Bonds: A Novel of the Reformation, Book 1 of 2 by Amy Mantravadi  Bible in One Year with Chad Bird Junk Drawer Jesus By Matt Popovits Take 20% Off Our Lenten Devotionals until March 5th: The Sinner/Saint Lenten Devotional Finding Christ in the Straw: A Forty-Day Devotion on the Epistle of James More from the hosts Michael Berg @ 1517 Wade Johnston @ 1517 Let the Bird Fly! website Thanks for listening! Attributions for Music and Image used in this Episode: “The Last One” by Jahzzar is licensed under an Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 International License. “Gib laut” by Dirk Becker is licensed under an Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives (aka Music Sharing) 3.0 International License. “Whistling Down the Road” by Silent Partner. “Not Drunk” by The Joy Drops is licensed under an Attribution 4.0 International License.

We are headed to Paris this week as we work through our series on Monasticism. Paul Prins joins me to talk about his journey to monasticism, what that looks like in an urban environment, and how this lifestyle can help us understand what it truly means to love ourselves, our church, our neighbors, and our cities.***The Stefon Napier episode mentioned today has had to be postponed due to technical difficulties and illness.***For more on Urban Monasticism: https://urbanmonastic.org For Paul's book: https://urbanmonastic.org/books/way-of-life/ For more information on Ministry Misfits visit www.ministrymisfits.comTo become a Patron for Ministry Misfits visit www.patreon.com/ministrymisfitsFor the Ministry Misfits Twitch: twitch.tv/ministrymisfit For more from KFM Broadcasting: www.kfmbroadcasting.com To support the KFM Broadcasting network: www.patreon.com/kfmbroadcasting Send us a textSupport the showFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ministrymisfitFollow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ministrymisfitFollow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ministrymisfitBecome a Patron: www.patreon.com/ministrymisfits

We are headed to Paris this week as we work through our series on Monasticism. Paul Prins joins me to talk about his journey to monasticism, what that looks like in an urban environment, and how this lifestyle can help us understand what it truly means to love ourselves, our church, our neighbors, and our cities.***The Stefon Napier episode mentioned today has had to be postponed due to technical difficulties and illness.***For more on Urban Monasticism: https://urbanmonastic.org For Paul's book: https://urbanmonastic.org/books/way-of-life/ For more information on Ministry Misfits visit www.ministrymisfits.comTo become a Patron for Ministry Misfits visit www.patreon.com/ministrymisfitsFor the Ministry Misfits Twitch: twitch.tv/ministrymisfit For more from KFM Broadcasting: www.kfmbroadcasting.com To support the KFM Broadcasting network: www.patreon.com/kfmbroadcasting Send us a textSupport the showFollow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ministrymisfitFollow us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/ministrymisfitFollow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ministrymisfitBecome a Patron: www.patreon.com/ministrymisfits

Dr. Jenkins continues he discussion of the history of monasticism. This week Dr. Jenkins looks at the shift in monasticism that the introduction of Pachomius's early fourth-century reforms entailed.

Dr. Jenkins continues he discussion of the history of monasticism. This week Dr. Jenkins looks at the shift in monasticism that the introduction of Pachomius's early fourth-century reforms entailed.

"Christian discipleship is one of leaving the world and following Christ. This episode Dr. Jenkins explores how the Church in the shadow of Martyrdom became the Church of monasticism, and why this shift was not as great as it might seem."

"Christian discipleship is one of leaving the world and following Christ. This episode Dr. Jenkins explores how the Church in the shadow of Martyrdom became the Church of monasticism, and why this shift was not as great as it might seem."

Sister Chua Xua was a social worker and left a long-term relationship to become ordained as a nun at Bát Nhã, a Plum Village monastery that closed due to harassment from the Vietnamese government. "I also have a dream. I have a wish that I can support the young Western people to take the monastic life. The life that when you open your eyes, you see the moon and the star over your window. You feel very free. You light the candle with the hot cup of tea, the warm one, and you enjoy tea in the early morning. You look through the windows, you enjoy the moon and the star, and you enjoy your free life." 1:53 Visiting the Monastery, Social Work 6:27 Relationship Before Ordination 9:33 Wake Up Sangha 11:21 Working for a Company, Decision to Become a Nun 18:35 Bat Nha Monastery 28:02 Father's Illness and Death 31:42 Living at Different Practice Centers 33:21 Bringing Buddhism to the West 37:16 Difficulties in Monastic Life You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. In this episode of Meet the Monastics from Deer Park Monastery, Brother Minh An introduces Sister Chua Xua, a nun from Vietnam who shares her transformative journey into monastic life. Born in 1981 and ordained in 2010 at the age of 29, Sister Chua Xua brings energy and a deep heart of service to her spiritual practice. Her path began with a background in sociology and social work, where she faced burnout from emotional exhaustion while supporting marginalized communities. A retreat at Bat Nha Monastery in Vietnam introduced her to mindfulness practices and a vibrant community of young practitioners, inspiring her to reimagine her life. Despite initially not considering monastic life, the deep joy and transformation she witnessed at the monastery eventually led her to ordain. Sister Chua Xua reflects on her personal challenges, including leaving a long-term romantic relationship and navigating the emotional aftermath with the support of the mindfulness practice and the Wake Up Sangha. She describes the tumultuous closure of Bat Nha Monastery due to political pressures, a pivotal moment that solidified her commitment to the monastic path. Through her practice, Sister Chua Xua has embraced a life of simplicity, freedom, and service, drawing strength from the Plum Village community's teachings. She now aspires to share the beauty of monastic life with young people, emphasizing the peace, clarity, and joy it offers. Her story highlights the transformative power of mindfulness, community, and self-discovery. Sister Chua Xua's experiences underline how monastic practice fosters inner freedom and equips practitioners to live harmoniously with others. Her journey from social work to spiritual dedication offers profound insights into resilience and the pursuit of a meaningful, connected life.

Why do we have monks? Why do we have laity? Shouldn't all seek to lay aside all earthly cares all the time? This episode Dr. Jenkins explores the place of "simplicity" in the Christian life, both lay and monastic and how this informs the life of the desert. Fr. Patrick Reardon interview. https://tinyurl.com/FrReardon Are We All Cyborgs discount. https://tinyurl.com/cyborgsreduced

Why do we have monks? Why do we have laity? Shouldn't all seek to lay aside all earthly cares all the time? This episode Dr. Jenkins explores the place of "simplicity" in the Christian life, both lay and monastic and how this informs the life of the desert. Fr. Patrick Reardon interview. https://tinyurl.com/FrReardon Are We All Cyborgs discount. https://tinyurl.com/cyborgsreduced

God calls us as His baptized children to serve our neighbor in our vocations. Monasticism led people to understand that perfection is found in poverty, vows, selling possessions, chastity, and leaving their daily vocations. Perfection is not found in such outward actions, but by faith in the actions of Christ. “Jesus, Thy blood and righteousness; My beauty are, my glorious dress; Midst flaming worlds, in these arrayed, With joy shall I lift up my head.” LSB 563, st. 1 Rev. Dr. Leonard Payton, pastor at St. John Lutheran Church, Forest Park, IL, joins Rev. Brady Finnern to continue our study of Monastic Vows. 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. 

Brother Phap Hoi is a Vietnamese refugee and the most senior Brother at Deer Park Monastery. "Because the Sangha embrace all of the people, even you are high level or low level of good background or not. You all have the chance in the Sangha if you go in the right direction of practice." 3:16 Meeting Thay 8:20 Arriving at Plum Village 11:30 Visa Trouble, First Stint at Deer Park 17:12 Bat Nha Monastery 26:25 Plum Village Thailand 32:00 Gratitude for Thay and the Path You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. In this episode of Meet the Monastics, Brother Minh An speaks with Brother Phap Hoi, the eldest brother at Deer Park Monastery, about his extraordinary journey into monastic life. Born in 1970 into a humble family in Hanoi, Brother Phap Hoi's path led him across multiple countries, including Czechoslovakia, Germany, and eventually France, where he was ordained at Plum Village in 1996. His life was marked by significant challenges, including fleeing as a refugee, navigating borders without proper paperwork, and enduring hardships during his search for a spiritual home. Inspired by Thay's teachings, particularly The Miracle of Mindfulness, Brother Phap Hoi found his deep calling to monastic life after attending a Day of Mindfulness in Germany. Brother Phap Hoi shares how his practice flourished despite difficulties, from supporting the establishment of Deer Park Monastery in the U.S. to helping build Plum Village centers in Thailand and Vietnam, including the historic Bát Nhã Monastery. His reflections emphasize the resilience and strength of the monastic Sangha, particularly during times of persecution and hardship. Brother Phap Hoi expresses profound gratitude for Thay's inclusive and compassionate vision, which provided him with the opportunity to grow and serve, no matter his background or limitations. For Brother Phap Hoi, the Sangha is a true family, offering a path of transformation and love, which he continues to follow wholeheartedly. Meet the Monastics

Sister Phu Nghiem is one of three nuns in her immediate blood family and is passionate about bringing mindfulness to children. "So I focus a lot more on my steps. On how I choose the food when I come to a meal. I learn to enjoy the meal and enjoy my siblings. And that has supported me a whole lot now that I'm here at Deer Park. I'm learning how to do that. And I notice my relationship with my sibling is more honest. But I think the most important thing is that my relationship with myself is a lot more honest. So that made me very happy." 2:07  - Introduction to Spiritual Life 7:49 - Professional Life and Decision to Become a Nun 14:15 - Starting Magnolia Grove 18:46 - Stress and Working Mindfully 26:13 - Mother's Ordination 31:01 - Practicing with the name "Gift from Heaven" 34:47 - Advice for Those Considering Monastic Life You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. Brother Minh An introduces an episode of Meet the Monastics featuring Sister Phu Nghiem, who shares her journey to monastic life and reflections on mindfulness practice. Born in central Vietnam in 1981, Sister Phu Nghiem emigrated to the U.S. at age 10, eventually pursuing interior design before feeling called to the monastic path. Influenced by her family's Buddhist roots and her sister's earlier ordination, she found deeper meaning through the Plum Village tradition. Her initial experiences at the Green Mountain Dharma Center awakened a sense of alignment with the practice, leading her to ordain in 2008. Sister Phu Nghiem reflects on her challenges and growth within the monastic community, including starting Magnolia Grove Monastery and balancing responsibilities with self-care. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in cultivating a rhythm of life that fosters well-being and honest relationships. As she now supports her aging mother, also a nun, she views this as a unique chapter of learning and joy, blending her spiritual and familial roles. She concludes by describing monastic life as a “luxury lifestyle,” offering a rich, disciplined, and beautiful way of living for those committed to the practice. Encouraging listeners to consider the monastic path, Sister Phu Nghiem shares how the teachings and precepts have deepened her relationships and transformed her life.

St. Pope John Paul II described monasticism as the "reference point for all the baptized." During this season, we return to our baptism through, monasticism. Our special guest will explain.

Brother Phap Luu, the eldest non-Vietnamese American monk in the Plum Village tradition, graduated from Dartmouth College and started meditating after going through a depression.  "What is more satisfying in life than helping people to transform their suffering? I mean, who cares about money and all this other stuff? The biggest happiness I get is if I can help myself, first of all, but others to transform suffering in a real way. My goodness, if we can do that with only a few people in our life, that's already worth a lifetime, right?" Discourse on the Four Establishments of Mindfulness 2:16 Experiments in Community and Meditation 10:37 Returning to the US, Depression 16:04 Discovering the Four Establishments of Mindfulness 21:00 Returning to Dartmouth, Visiting Maple Forest Monastery 26:09 Decision to Become a Monk 31:00 Life as a Monk, Love for Thay, Ethics 40:10 Projects 51:39 Ideals of Monastic Life, Collective Awakening 1:09:17 The Monastic's Role, Advice for Potential Monastics You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. This podcast episode, Meet the Monastics, hosted by Brother Minh An from Deer Park Monastery, introduces Brother Phap Luu (Brother Stream), the most senior non-Vietnamese American monastic in the Plum Village tradition. Brother Phap Luu shares his transformative journey, including his struggles with identity, community, and purpose before encountering the Dharma.  Early Life and Search for Meaning: Growing up in Connecticut, Brother Phap Luu studied English literature at Dartmouth College. He explored anarchist movements in Europe and lived in organic farming communities, experiencing both inspiration and disillusionment. These experiences deepened his inquiry into suffering, community, and personal transformation. Meeting Spiritual Teachers: His encounter with a Western teacher and later Thích Nhất Hạnh (Thầy) provided clarity and inspiration. The advice, “Don't be a Buddhist; be the Buddha,” profoundly influenced his approach to the path. Discovering Mindfulness Practice: Practicing the Four Establishments of Mindfulness during a difficult period helped him overcome depression and cultivate joy. This marked the beginning of his commitment to mindfulness and monastic life. Becoming a Monastic: Ordained in 2003 at Plum Village, France, Brother Phap Luu describes monastic life as a profound practice of non-self and community living. He values the precepts and ethics as foundational to transformation and expresses gratitude for Thầy's teachings and legacy. Community and Projects: Known for his boundless energy, Brother Phap Luu has contributed to initiatives like Wake Up for young practitioners, the Happy Farm, and hiking and science retreats. He reflects on balancing projects with mindfulness, cultivating non-attachment, and fostering harmony in the Sangha. Role of Monastics: Brother Phap Luu emphasizes the importance of monastics in balancing collective energy in society. He highlights the need for mindfulness, non-ideological approaches, and cultivating community harmony to address modern challenges like polarization and ecological crises. Download episode without music.

Sister Le Nghiem came to the practice after the death of her brother, and typically does solo retreat at the monastery for a few weeks a year. "So the practice gives me the greatest happiness. And this practice gives me being with others. Being with friends on retreat. Being with my siblings. Spending time each other. So when I practice it gives me happiness. And when my practice is deep, my happiness gets deeper. So it's all to do with the practice, nothing else." 2:17 Death of Brother and Discovering Thay's Teachings 9:25 Meeting the Monastic Sangha, Deciding to Become a Nun 17:00 Spending Time with Family Before Ordination 23:08 Nourishment from Solitude 32:34 Advice for Potential Nuns 35:49 Greatest Happiness in Monastic Life You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. This is an interview from Meet the Monastics, hosted by Brother Minh An at Deer Park Monastery. The episode features Sister Le Nghiem, also known as Sister Respect, a monastic in the Plum Village tradition ordained in 2005 at the age of 35. Key Highlights: Journey to Monastic Life: She discovered mindfulness and Thích Nhất Hạnh's teachings during a difficult time after her brother's passing. Reading The Miracle of Mindfulness and joining a local Sangha in Brisbane were transformative, helping her heal and connect deeply with the Plum Village practice. Her aspiration to become a nun solidified after meeting Plum Village monastics during retreats in Australia. Family Challenges and Support: Coming from a non-Buddhist family, Sister Le Nghiem faced initial resistance to her decision to ordain. She postponed ordination in Vietnam in 2005 to spend quality time with her family, preparing them for her new path. Over time, her family grew to accept and support her choice. Solo Retreats and Community Life: Sister Le Nghiem finds nourishment in both solitary practice and community living. Her solo retreats allow her to connect deeply with herself, cultivating mindfulness and understanding. At the same time, she thrives in the Sangha environment, sharing the practice and building strong relationships with her monastic siblings. Inspiration for Young Women: Sister Le Nghiem advises aspiring nuns to focus wholeheartedly on the basic practices of mindfulness, which she believes are the foundation of a fulfilling monastic life. She emphasizes putting one's heart into the practice to find clarity and joy. The Role of Practice: Throughout her journey, Sister Le Nghiem highlights the central role of practice in cultivating happiness. Whether alone or with others, her deep commitment to mindfulness brings her the greatest fulfillment. This heartfelt interview offers insight into Sister Le Nghiem's spiritual path, her balance of solitude and community, and her unwavering dedication to the practice, which continues to inspire her daily life.

Sister Sr. Trung Chin left Vietnam as a refugee and has been a nun for over fifty years. "The aspiration of a monk or a nun is that we have to arrive to the most peaceful place, the happiest place in ourselves. And there's only the daily practice. The daily practice only helps us to arrive to that place, that aspiration. It's the daily practice of each person. If each one of us do our best and lessen our hate, our love, our attachment, our anger, we let go of them day by day, then we can see we can love everybody." 2:44 Discovering Spirituality and Ordination 7:35 Dreaming of the Buddha and Meeting Great Teachers 12:39 Appreciation for Plum Village 16:55 Overcoming Difficulties, Waking Early, Balancing Practice  22:57 Chanting, Pleasing the Land Ancestors 33:23 Aspiration You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. This is an episode of the podcast Meet the Monastics by Brother Minh An from Deer Park Monastery, highlighting the story of Sister Trung Chin, also known as Sister Abbess. Sister Abbess has been a monastic for over 50 years, ordained at 15 in Vietnam, and later joined Plum Village at the invitation of Thich Nhat Hanh (Thay). She eventually became one of the first monastics at Deer Park Monastery. Her journey reveals her deep connection to the Buddhist path, beginning in childhood amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War. After escaping Vietnam and living in various countries, she remained devoted to monastic life, finding solace and depth in Plum Village teachings. She shares her aspiration to embody Thay's teachings, practicing daily to cultivate peace, happiness, and love. She emphasizes the importance of community, gratitude for land ancestors, and integrating personal diligence with communal life. Throughout the interview, Sister Abbess reflects on the simplicity and depth of practice, the wisdom of Thay, and her hope that younger generations will continue the path of mindfulness and liberation. The episode ends with a reminder of the interconnectedness of personal and collective practice, gratitude to teachers and ancestors, and the importance of preserving Thay's legacy.

Sister Boi Nghiem studied nursing before being ordained, and works regularly as a nun with the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and teen communities. "I think I have a very healthy relationship with myself. Very healthy mental dialogue with myself. There were times I comforted myself. There were times I'm very firm with myself, tell myself to stop thinking that way. And they help. This is why I kept on sharing the importance of self-love. Because by the end of the day, it is the self-love that helped me, that saved me, that keeps me going. Because if I continue to criticize myself or have excessive negative thoughts, I cannot do much. It's very tiring. So I think that is the reason why that helped me not to fall into burnout."" 3:07 Heartbreak, Visiting Green Mountain, Deer Park, and Plum Village 6:37 Novicehood at Plum Village  11:40 Magnolia Grove Monastery 25:00 Interest in Social Injustice 28:34 Teens 34:42 LGBTQIA+ 40:55 BIPOC 53:26 Burnout 1:07:07 Basic Practice 1:17:25 Advice for Potential Monastics You can support this podcast by leaving a comment or review in your podcast application and by sharing it with friends. Financial support can be offered through the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation. This episode of “Meet the Monastics,” hosted by Brother Minh An from Deer Park Monastery, shares insights into the lives and practices of monastics in the Plum Village tradition.  In this episode, he interviews Sister Boi Nghiem (Sister True Pearl), who joined monastic life in 2005 at age 21. Sister Boi Nghiem emphasizes the significance of self-love and healthy inner dialogue as key practices to maintain well-being and prevent burnout. She shares her journey from a childhood in central Vietnam to immigrating to the U.S. and eventually finding spiritual direction after a difficult breakup. Initially drawn to Plum Village for personal healing, she gradually committed to monastic life. Sister Boi Nghiem has devoted herself to supporting diverse groups, including the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and teen communities. Her advocacy grew from personal experiences and a deep awareness of societal suffering, leading her to foster inclusivity in the Sangha. Her practice of mindfulness, compassion, and gratitude is nurtured by regular breathing exercises, walking meditation, and the support of her monastic community. The episode also highlights the foundational role of the Plum Village Sangha and the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh in fostering a mindful, compassionate, and engaged monastic community.  Listen without the music track.