The Word on Fire Show - Catholic Faith and Culture WOF 406: The Genius of G.K. Chesterton’s “St. Francis”
Oct 2, 2023
Bishop Barron's keynote talk on G.K. Chesterton's biography of St. Francis, understanding St. Francis from natural and supernatural perspectives, exploring the destructive power of false worship, spiritual purification of historical figures, concept of radical dependency and the existence of God, and the relationship between giving, gratitude, and spirituality.
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Discovering Chesterton
- Bishop Barron's introduction to Chesterton began with a required English course at Notre Dame, taught by Father Rudky.
- Though initially unaware of Chesterton, the course ignited his interest, despite the initial challenge of understanding the complex writing.
Lyons and Chesterton
- Father Jim Lyons, another Chicago priest, furthered Bishop Barron's appreciation for Chesterton.
- Lyons, a memorable eccentric, engaged in long discussions about Chesterton with the Bishop.
Greeley's Chestertonian Influence
- Bishop Barron surprisingly links Father Andrew Greeley to his Chesterton journey.
- Greeley, known for controversial novels, also wrote crime novels inspired by Chesterton's Father Brown and could quote Chesterton extensively.