

English L'Abri
English L'Abri
Lectures old and new from workers and guest lecturers at English L'Abri, a residential study center and community open to guests seeking a welcoming place to ask life’s many questions. For more information, visit englishlabri.org englishlabri.substack.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 4, 2025 • 1h 27min
The Secret Chord: Honesty, Truth and Beauty in the Arts (Andrew Petersen, recording artist, songwriter, producer, filmmaker, publisher, author)
Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

Jul 25, 2025 • 1h 29min
Bonus - William Blake and the Power of the Imagination (Mark Vernon, psychotherapist, writer, former Anglican Priest)
Mark Vernon, a psychotherapist and former Anglican Priest, offers a fresh perspective on William Blake's imaginative worldview. The discussion highlights Blake's relevance in today's context, exploring the transformative power of imagination and non-conformity in his poetry. Vernon delves into the evolution of sympathy, contrasting historical and modern interpretations of human connection, while emphasizing imagination's role in fostering deeper relationships with the world. The podcast invites listeners to reconsider their perceptions of reality through Blake's mystical insights and artistic legacy.

Jul 21, 2025 • 1h 42min
The Story of Scripture: Seeing the Bible as One Unfolding Story of Redemption (Anna Ochoa, MA Biblical & Theological Studies)
The entire Bible, both Old and New Testament, can be seen as one unfolding narrative of redemption told by One Author. However, the Bible can often be mystifying in its various genres and ancient context—in other words, very much not like a story when one tries to read it through! This lecture traces the speaker’s journey through seminary and learning to track with, treasure, and translate for today the story Scripture tells.Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

Jul 14, 2025 • 1h 38min
The Second Sexual Revolution: Disintegration (Phillip Johnston, Hope Church Greatham)
Phillip Johnston, a former worker at English L'Abri and now with Hope Church in Greatham, dives deep into the disintegration movement of the 20th-century sexual revolution. He contrasts historic sexual codes with contemporary dilemmas, revealing how modern norms have eroded intimacy and trust. Johnston discusses the impact of technology on relationships, the complexities of hookup culture, and the evolving nature of marriage. He emphasizes the consequences of disintegration, urging a return to ideals of love and connection.

Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 36min
The Paradox of Limitations (Lacey Shelton, L’Abri Worker)
To be human is to be limited. Many of the most triumphant moments of history have occurred, however, when mankind has found a way to exceed beyond these limitations and grasp that which seemed impossible. Yet in our day-to-day lives, we all experience the angst derived from expecting to live beyond our limits and many have found relief in accepting these limitations as God’s plan for humanity. Still, the Christian faith encourages supernatural living, and seemingly-impossible sacrifice. So what can we do? How do we humbly accept our limitations and also exercise our call to glorify God with our gifting and achievements? Should we embrace the sacrifice of living beyond our limits?Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

Jun 30, 2025 • 1h 36min
Why Does Nature Matter? Why Belief Counts for Tree Frogs (Peter Harris, A Roche)
Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

Jun 23, 2025 • 1h 18min
Tacit Knowledge in Crisis (Krisztina Mair, Lecturer in Philosophy, Ethics, and Apologetics, Oak Hill College)
Krisztina Mair, a Lecturer in Philosophy, Ethics, and Apologetics at Oak Hill College, dives into Michael Polanyi's concept of tacit knowledge. She explores how this idea can help us navigate today's uncertainty and ideological divisions. The discussion highlights the significance of personal commitment and tradition in our understanding of truth. By linking modern media, like Ted Lasso, to philosophical themes, Mair emphasizes the importance of community, curiosity, and embodied experiences in shaping knowledge and restoring coherence in public discourse.

Jun 16, 2025 • 1h 35min
What on Earth is Heaven? Ecological Implications of the New Creation (Jim Paul, L’Abri Worker)
The discussion delves into the ecological implications of the new creation concept, highlighting how spiritual beliefs connect with pressing ecological issues. It emphasizes the narrative of hope through renewal rather than replacement, urging a Christ-centered approach to nature. The importance of virtues like gratitude in stewardship is explored, along with the need for responsible practices in agriculture. Personal reflections on the deep bond between humanity and creation encourage a transformative response to environmental crises.

Jun 11, 2025 • 1h 22min
George MacDonald and Reformed Influences on His Life (Joyce McPherson, Covenant College, Professor of English)
Joyce will incorporate her research on MacDonald's love for Pilgrim's Progress as well as the influence of Thomas Chalmers's sermons.Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com

Jun 2, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Theology & Philosophy of Ageing - Dr. Charles Taliaferro, Professor St Olaf College & Author
How should we think of ageing? Is it the same as getting older? Is ageing or getting older good? Is being young and youthful the same thing? Does Christianity offer insights about ageing that are different from our secular culture?Please note that the ideas expressed in this lecture do not necessarily represent the views of L’Abri Fellowship.For more resources, visit the L'Abri Ideas Library at labriideaslibrary.org. The library contains over two thousand lectures and discussions that explore questions about the reality and relevance of Christianity. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit englishlabri.substack.com