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eX-skeptic

Living in Wonder – Rod Dreher’s Story

Mar 28, 2025
Rod Dreher, an American author and cultural commentator known for works like *The Benedict Option*, shares his profound spiritual journey. He discusses transitioning from agnosticism to faith, sparked by encounters with beauty in art and architecture. Dreher reflects on the complexities of faith within an imperfect church and emphasizes the importance of 'living in wonder' to deepen one's connection with the divine. His insights highlight the transformative power of beauty, prayer, and community in navigating spiritual identity amid modern distractions.
54:28

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Rod Dreher's transformative encounter with beauty at Chartres Cathedral ignited a deeper spiritual journey, emphasizing beauty's role in connecting to the divine.
  • He highlights the tension between personal freedom and surrendering to God's will, urging seekers to embrace authenticity in their spiritual lives.

Deep dives

The Journey from Skepticism to Faith

Rod Dreher shares his transformation from skepticism to a vibrant faith in God, sparked by an encounter with beauty that transcended his previous experiences of Christianity. Growing up in a culturally Christian household, he felt disconnected from a faith that lacked depth and intellectual engagement. His pivotal moment came at the Chartres Cathedral in France, where the overwhelming beauty and presence of God compelled him to seek a deeper understanding of spirituality. This encounter awakened a desire that led him on a journey towards a personal relationship with God, emphasizing the importance of beauty in drawing individuals closer to the divine.

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