The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J. Pete Buttigieg on Christianity, public life, and the spirituality of fatherhood
8 snips
Jun 24, 2025 
Pete Buttigieg, the 19th U.S. Secretary of Transportation and a military veteran, shares insights on his faith journey, influenced by a passionate Old Testament teacher. He discusses the intertwining of his identity as an openly gay Christian with his political career. Buttigieg reflects on how fatherhood has deepened his understanding of the divine, highlighting the parallels between parental love and God's love. The conversation also underscores the importance of social justice and empathy in faith, shaping his moral compass throughout his experiences.
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Be a Beacon of Hope
- To lead during dark times, point others toward hope rooted in God rather than despair.
- Cultivate authentic hope based on the resurrection's message that nothing is impossible with God.
Old Testament Teacher's Impact
- Pete recalls an Old Testament teacher who linked scripture to social justice, showing satellite images of water diversion hurting communities.
- This vivid moral lesson stayed with him about faith's call to justice and responsibility.
Liturgical Discovery at Oxford
- At Oxford, Pete found himself struggling academically and socially, which led him to explore the Anglican liturgical tradition.
- He found comfort in the repetition and centuries-old forms of liturgy that helped center his spirit in vulnerability.