#104- Robert Freese - From Buddhism to Catholicism: A Spiritual Journey

Robert Freese converted to Catholicism in 2020 after 20 years of practicing and eventually teaching Vipassana meditation. He and his wife Gosia are volunteers in the Faustinium, the lay order of Saint Faustina who initiated the devotion to Divine Mercy.

In this conversation, Robert shares his profound journey from a secular upbringing in Texas to exploring Buddhism and eventually returning to Catholicism. He discusses the influence of his family background, the transformative power of meditation, and the importance of community in spiritual practices. Robert reflects on his experiences with Vipassana meditation, the challenges of balancing spiritual commitments with worldly responsibilities, and the ongoing quest for self-discovery and meaning in life. In this conversation, Robert Freese shares his profound journey of faith, detailing his experiences of encountering Jesus during meditation, the integration of his Buddhist practices with Catholicism, and the transformative power of suffering and grace. He reflects on the significance of communion, confession, and the importance of bringing one’s suffering to God, emphasising the deep connection between personal experiences and spiritual growth.

Chapters

00:00 Journey of Spiritual Exploration

10:11 The Shift to Buddhism

19:57 Deepening the Practice

29:49 Teaching and Transformation

39:57 Navigating Challenges in Spiritual Life

49:51 Encountering Jesus in Meditation

54:00 The Cross and Personal Suffering

58:08 Navigating Faith and Personal Crisis

01:01:22 The Journey to Catholicism

01:07:20 Integrating Buddhism and Catholicism

01:14:14 Desire, Suffering, and Spiritual Growth

01:20:50 The Role of Confession and Grace

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