Showing results by narrator "Richard Rohr OFM" in All Categories

We often think of saints as rare individuals whose gifts far exceed our own, and St. Francis is no exception. But for Fr. Richard Rohr, a prolific author and renowned speaker, the life and teachings of this beloved figure offer an authentic spirituality we can all embody.

Franciscan priest Richard Rohr feels that there is no more challenging spiritual issue than the “problem of the self". Most of contemporary spiritual teaching, he believes, is still trying to inspire and fortify the private self, the autonomous "I". Even much church work is trying to evangelize and sacramentalize what many would call "the false self." Basic transformation is not expected, but merely a new set of beliefs and practices or loyal membership in a new group.

Rohr reprises his best-selling talks on scripture in this powerful new series. He describes the Bible as a text in travail, containing not just conclusions, but a process that mirrors our own journey (three steps forward, two steps backward). In the three steps forward, Scripture always reveals that we are related to something infinite and that ours is an enchanted and trustworthy universe.

In this retreat experience, Richard Rohr explores the role of men in society and religion. Father Rohr focuses on the yearning to rediscover passion in masculine identity and in the purpose of life. He uses archetypes (symbolic images) to transmit his powerful message about male spirituality and integration. He challenges listeners to encounter their archetype (king, warrior, magician, or lover), recognize its dark side, and empower their journey through drumming, dialogue, and discovery.

Richard Rohr addresses one of the most vital questions for new and lifelong Catholics. Rohr draws on his own prayer, study and preaching experiences throughout the world to ask "What is good about being Catholic?" This series invites listeners to explore the breadth and depth of their faith. "Most Catholics are not Catholic/catholic enough," says Rohr. Addresses both the shortcomings and strengths of the Catholic Christian tradition.

Both Rohr and D'Arcy believe that much personal and church confusion could be helped by clearly distinguishing the tasks of the two halves of life. Much of institutional religion is concerned with the tasks of the first half of life. The need for adults is to move onto the tasks of the second half of life, which are much closer to the concerns of Jesus, Buddha and the mystics of all religions.

Two internationally known spiritual guides explore integrating our inner and outer journeys. They challenge us to confront our inner and social violence and bring it to healing and transformation in a sacred and ecumenical context. Rohr and Keating each give insights on awakening to God's friendship, coming to know God and ourselves, growing in love through centering prayer, facing evil around us and our demons within us as well as opening our deep selves to divine therapy which heals our wounds.

Speaking at a day of prayer, Richard Rohr says, “Advent is not about a sentimental waiting for the baby Jesus.” He asks listeners to focus expectations and anticipation on “the adult Christ, the cosmic Christ,” the Lord who challenges us to empty ourselves, to lose ourselves, to surrender. This is the Jesus whom we invite to come into our hearts at Christmas and throughout our lives.