What God is Not

Bishop Erik Varden, a Norwegian Catholic bishop and former Trappist monk, shares insights on living a contemplative life amidst the busyness of modern life. He discusses the significance of recognizing Jesus in others and the transformative power of silence and prayer. Delving into the Syriac Fathers, he emphasizes chastity as a path to wholeness and deeper desire. Bishop Varden reflects on his unique journey from monastic life to episcopal ministry while offering practical advice for maintaining spiritual depth in everyday activities.

This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Chris Seith. Mother Natalia and Fr. Chris talk about the monastic life and how their constant life of prayer calls us to incorporate God into our lives. They talk about Orientale Lumen and the call to reinvigorate the monastic life around the world. Mother Natalia and Fr. Chris talk about some of the differences in liturgical practices in the Byzantine and Roman rites and how those can be inspirational for both churches.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about a revelation she had about sin and listening to God. She talks about how our thoughts impact the way we act. Mother Natalia talks about the way we need to practice listening to Our Lord so that we can be aware of how the devil is tempting us.References:Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder ThaddeusFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael talks about a recent discovery he made about rest and preparation. He talks about the importance of both and how they are linked together. Fr. Michael talks about how preparation makes many things go smoothly and give us time for rest.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael talks about rules and the gift they can be in our lives. He talks about the difference between checking boxes and fully embracing the Church's teaching. Fr. Michael talks about how structure and order can easily veer into just checking the box instead of seeing the deeper picture.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

Exploring the balance of relationships and efficiency, Mother Natalia shares personal anecdotes that challenge the notion of self-sufficiency. Emotional vulnerability is emphasized as essential in deepening connections. The complexity of love in the digital age is discussed, revealing the struggle between seeking effortless interactions versus genuine relationships. With a heartfelt plea for community support, the conversation highlights the transformative power of prayer and gratitude in nurturing authentic bonds.

Explore the profound teachings on life after death from early church Fathers. Delve into Eastern Christian views on Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory, and the importance of prayer for the departed. Reflect on evolving perspectives regarding the priesthood and the balance between tradition and social responsibility. Discover the interconnected nature of divine realities and the significance of union with God. Personal stories bring hope, highlighting meaningful funeral homilies that inspire genuine connection and faith.

This week Mother Natalia talks about intentionally incorporating Jesus into our lives. She gives two examples of this in action in her own life, in embroidery and running, and how she was able to come to a prayerful understanding of that in her own life.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Fr. Michael talks about prayer, fasting, and alms-giving in relation to the Great Fast and the paradoxes that exist within each  of those. He talks about humility and how we can find a paradox within our humility as well.Follow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show

This week Mother Natalia talks about some of the things she's excited to encounter while on the upcoming pilgrimage. She differentiates between pilgrimage and vacation, reminding us that we're supposed to be uncomfortable on pilgrimage. She connects pilgrimages to the Great Fast, and talks about how pilgrimages ultimately connect us to longing for heaven.References:The Shattering of Loneliness by Bishop Erik VardenPrayer Resources in the Great Fast from Mother CeciliaFollow and Contact Us!Follow us on Instagram and FacebookWe're on YouTube!Join our Goodreads GroupFr. Michael's TwitterChrist the Bridegroom MonasteryOur WebsiteOur NonprofitSend us a textSupport the show