In this engaging discussion, Paul Swanson and Brie Stoner delve into the concept of alternative orthodoxy, challenging the divide between sacred and mundane. They share personal anecdotes that illuminate how recognizing the sacred in everyday life can transform our reality. They explore the significance of unity, the archetypal priesthood, and the interconnectedness of humanity and nature. With reflections on childhood memories and environmental urgency, this conversation invites listeners to embrace moral courage and community engagement in their spiritual journeys.
The podcast emphasizes the false dichotomy between sacred and profane, advocating for recognizing all aspects of life as interconnectedly sacred.
Mystical experiences are portrayed as vital moments that reveal the underlying unity of existence, encouraging a deeper understanding of life's interconnected nature.
The discussion highlights the importance of addressing climate change and societal issues through collective action rooted in compassion and a unified understanding of reality.
Deep dives
The Illusion of Sacred and Profane
The conversation emphasizes that the perceived distinction between sacred and profane is a false dichotomy. In many evangelical traditions, this distinction was stark, creating a subculture that valued 'sacred' music over secular music. The speakers reflect on their experiences of growing up in environments that strictly categorized elements of life, fostering an unhealthy separation. They suggest that recognizing the unity of all elements in life as sacred can be healing and transformative in understanding the wholeness of reality.
Embracing the Oneness of Reality
Mystical experiences are highlighted as opportunities for glimpsing the oneness of reality, with profound insights emerging from these moments. The speakers discuss how encounters with the divine reveal the interconnectedness of life and the sacred nature of existence. They believe that teachers and mystics play a crucial role in guiding individuals to see beyond superficial separations into the underlying unity of everything. This shift in perception encourages a more creative and less reactive approach to life and its challenges.
Integration of Suffering and Joy
The intertwining of suffering and joy is captured through personal stories that illustrate the depth of the human experience. One speaker shares a poignant moment during a bike trip when a personal tragedy intersected with profound beauty, revealing the complexity of life. This experience led to insights about the nature of existence, where the joy of life coexists with the pain of loss. It highlights the importance of embracing the totality of life, allowing both suffering and joy to coexist as part of the one reality.
Rethinking Relationships and Hierarchies
The podcast explores the implications of seeing God as interconnected with all aspects of life, transcending hierarchical distinctions. The speakers argue that a healthy understanding of the sacred must include the mundane, emphasizing that clergy and lay roles should inspire connection rather than division. They stress the need for spiritual leaders who embody relational qualities, promoting a model grounded in love and community rather than authority and separateness. This shift would lead to a more inclusive and vibrant expression of faith that recognizes the sacred nature present in all.
Active Participation in a Suffering World
Confronting the challenges of climate change and societal issues requires active participation grounded in a unified understanding of reality. The speakers underscore the importance of taking moral actions that contribute to healing the planet and society, acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings. They highlight the necessity of compassion and responsibility in addressing the suffering caused by political and environmental crises. This call to action is rooted in the belief that our collective consciousness and efforts can create meaningful change in the world.
Richard Rohr, in conversation with Paul Swanson and Brie Stone, continue the journey through the 7 Themes of the Alternative Orthodoxy. The third theme of the Alternative Orthodoxy reframes our perspective of reality:
For those who see deeply there is only One Reality. By reason of the Incarnation, there is no truthful distinction between sacred and profane.
The heart of this theme is about allowing what seems to be separate to become one; often through deep connective experiences of love and suffering. Join us as we share personal stories that embody this theme, discuss the importance (and often gaudy art) of the sacred heart, the sacramental depth of reality, and live a life of mystical incarnation in the here and now.
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Visit cac.org/podcast to listen to the first 3 seasons of Another Name for Every Thing
Visit universalchrist.org to learn more about the core themes of Richard’s book, The Universal Christ: How a Forgotten Reality Can Change Everything We See, Hope For, and Believe
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