From Protestant Missionary to Franciscan Friar (Br. Lawrence, C.F.R.) | Ep. 522
Apr 30, 2025
auto_awesome
Br. Lawrence Joshua Johnson, a Franciscan Friar of the Renewal, shares his fascinating journey from a family of Protestant missionaries to his current life in Yonkers. He discusses the personal challenges of transitioning faiths and the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped his Catholic identity. Bridging Protestant and Catholic beliefs, he emphasizes the importance of meaningful dialogue and community in spiritual growth. With a balance of humor and deep insight, Br. Lawrence navigates the complexities of priesthood and the enriching aspects of religious life.
The podcast highlights a societal shift towards understanding human dignity, emphasizing its roots in Christ's teachings for contemporary evangelization.
Br. Lawrence discusses the significance of communal life in a religious order, illustrating how shared experiences foster spiritual growth and support.
Integration of personal and communal prayer practices is essential in religious life for discerning vocation and enhancing one's relationship with God.
Vocational discernment is portrayed as a nuanced journey requiring patience and faith, as candidates navigate doubts while trusting in God's timing.
The conversation explores the need for love and compassion within religious communities, stressing respectful interactions to foster growth and unity.
Deep dives
The Importance of Understanding Human Dignity
Current societal questions about human dignity were highlighted, with a focus on the significant shift from Christological to anthropological heresies in contemporary discussions. Unlike in previous centuries, society is now grappling with what it truly means to be human. This shift signifies a potential avenue for evangelization as individuals seek deeper meaning in their existence. The podcast emphasizes that the essence of human dignity is rooted in the understanding of Jesus Christ's teachings and example.
Experiencing Religious Life in Community
The experience of community life within a religious order was depicted as a foundational aspect of living out one's faith. Living in fraternity, friars are tasked with supporting one another through shared prayer and service to others. This communal approach fosters a sense of accountability, love, and encouragement essential for spiritual growth. The emphasis on relationships within the community is seen as a vital part of the spiritual journey.
Integration of Spiritual Practices
The podcast explored the integration of personal spiritual practices with one's religious community. Personal prayer, including diverse methods like Lectio Divina or silent prayer, plays a crucial role in discerning one's vocation. The conversation suggests that maintaining a rhythm of personal prayer while engaged in communal activities strengthens one's relationship with God and helps clarify the path ahead. Embracing various forms of prayer is encouraged to adapt to personal needs while remaining rooted in the community.
The Challenge of Vocational Discernment
Vocational discernment was presented as a journey full of ups and downs, emphasizing the necessity of patience and trust in God's timing. Those entering religious life are encouraged to reflect deeply and seek guidance through prayer and external counsel without succumbing to the fear of making the wrong decision. The importance of acknowledging one's doubts and fears while remaining firmly grounded in faith is discussed. This balanced approach helps develop a healthy perspective on the vocation one is called to pursue.
The Role of Love in the Community
Love and compassion are underscored as vital components of religious life and priesthood. Fraternal relationships must be navigated respectfully to cultivate a space where communal love can thrive, enabling personal and spiritual growth. The practice of gently discussing one another's shortcomings is essential for the community’s strength and cohesion. In the milieu of competing personalities, fostering an environment of love creates a foundation for spiritual maturity and deeper connections.
The Diversity of Musical Expressions in Worship
The podcast addressed the importance of diverse musical expressions in Catholic worship, advocating for songs that resonate with congregational participation. While Gregorian chant holds a cherished place within the tradition, the conversation acknowledges that music in liturgy should be accessible to all attendees. On a practical level, it encourages the infusion of various musical styles that embody the spirit of worship while facilitating gathered praise. The goal is to establish a balance that invites participation without compromising the richness of the liturgical experience.
Navigating Cultural Differences in Community Life
Navigating cultural differences within a religious community is an aspect that is both challenging and enriching. The significance of a supportive and assimilative environment was highlighted, particularly when members come from varied backgrounds. The podcast emphasizes that love for and patience with cultural nuances fosters harmony, collaboration, and unity in diversity. This approach allows members to grow closer as they learn from one another while celebrating their unique cultural contributions.
The Longitudinal Journey of Faith and Acceptance
The process of faith acceptance from family members can be lengthy and complex, involving growing understanding over time. Family attitudes may evolve, leading to a more supportive and accepting environment as they witness the candidate's commitment to their vocation. As the family experiences the candidate's unwavering faith and dedication, relationships strengthen through ongoing dialogue. This narrative encourages candidates to remain open to extending grace and patience during this sensitive transition.
The Evolving Nature of Personal Convictions
The evolving nature of convictions regarding one's calling and expectations in life was discussed throughout the podcast. Understanding and experiencing desired virtues can often change as individuals mature spiritually. New insights, practices, and relationships may contribute to an evolving sense of self as one navigates their vocational journey. Realizing that change can occur and is welcomed is an essential part of the gradual and gradual journey of discernment.
The Emphasis on Self-Knowledge and Continuous Growth
The importance of self-knowledge in religious life helps deepen spiritual maturity and awareness. Engaging in meaningful introspection allows individuals to confront their weaknesses, misgivings, and motivations while also fostering growth. Developing a caring, compassionate perspective towards oneself enables potential candidates to understand their journey authentically. This approach encourages openness to the journey, making space for continual learning and deeper trust in God's plan.
Br. Lawrence Joshua Johnson entered the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in 2015 and professed final vows in 2021. He has ministered in the Bronx and Nicaragua and currently resides in Yonkers, NY. He graduated with a degree in Religious Studies from Brown University, holds an M.T.S. degree from the University of Notre Dame, and is currently a transitional deacon studying at St. Joseph's Seminary in Dunwoodie.
🍺 Want to Support Pints With Aquinas? 🍺
Get episodes a week early, score a free PWA beer stein, and join exclusive live streams with me! Become an annual supporter at 👉 https://mattfradd.locals.com/support
💵 Show Sponsors:
👉 College of St. Joseph the Worker – Earn a degree, learn a trade, and graduate without crippling debt: https://collegeofstjoseph.com/mattfradd
👉 Truthly – The Catholic faith at your fingertips: https://www.truthly.ai/
👉 Hallow – The #1 Catholic prayer app: https://hallow.com/mattfradd  💻 Follow Me on Social Media:
📌 Facebook: https://facebook.com/mattfradd
📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/mattfradd
𝕏 Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/Pints_W_Aquinas
🎵 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@pintswithaquinas
👕 PWA Merch – Wear the Faith!
Grab your favorite PWA gear here: https://shop.pintswithaquinas.com
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
starstarstarstarstar
🤯 How amazing is this app?!
Sophie
App Store
Snipd helps me keep track of everything I resonated with from a show. I can always find my snips, listen to them again, share them. And there are so many great product updates regularly! Like the feature to chat with the episode: I can retrieve even more knowledge from an episode 🥹 I’m in love with this app 🤍
starstarstarstarstar
No 1 podcast app
Steven
App Store
I tried everything and snipd is the no 1 app for podcasts if you like to remember things. Just tap your headphones three times and a snipped is created, transcribed, and saved to you library.
