Radio Maria England CULTURE TUESDAY - Sr Gemma Simmonds - Donkey Roads and Camel Treks
Nov 20, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Sr Gemma Simmonds, a Roman Catholic theologian and author known for her work in Ignatian spirituality, shares insights from her book, *Donkey Roads and Camel Treks*. She explores the true meaning of Advent, emphasizing the importance of rekindling our desire for God and the spiritual significance of waiting. With humor, she contrasts the commercial rush of Christmas with authentic Advent reflection, and discusses using imagination in prayer to connect with the messy beauty of the Incarnation. Sr Gemma also highlights modern struggles and the hope represented in biblical prophecy.
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Advent Rekindles Spiritual Desire
- Advent's purpose is to rekindle deep desire for God rather than rush to Christmas celebrations.
- Sr Gemma Simmonds argues desire prepares us to recognise and celebrate Christ genuinely.
Unexpected Advent Advert Sparks Reflection
- Sr Gemma recounts seeing an advert for an advent calendar from a sex shop and reflects on fake desires.
- She links Augustine's prayer “Lord, give me chastity, but not yet” to the need to form holy desire.
The Nativity Isn't Airbrushed
- Popular images of the Nativity airbrush out discomfort and mess, creating unrealistic expectations.
- Sr Gemma Simmonds invites imaginative prayer that acknowledges the human cost and mess of the incarnation.
