Shows
The Myth PilgrimAn Easter story: Radical Red (with Sr Angela Uybarreta MGL)How does hope blaze in the midst of darkness? Enter the Easter Triduum with "Radical Red", an original Easter story by Sr Angela and Br Lawrence MGL2025-04-1616 minThe Myth Pilgrim104 The Hero's Journey through The Lion KingHi friends, the classical Hero’s Journey greatly parallels our spiritual journey.🧙🦁 Using the Lion King, we’ll explore ten key stages of the Hero’s Journey identified by Joseph Campbell, drawing parallels with Jesus’ own life, death and resurrection.Diagram of Lawrence's "The Hero's Journey adapted for Spiritual Direction." Excerpt from episode: "Stage 2: the Call to Adventure. At some point, there is a visitation from outside the home, that acts to draw the hero out … or at least shake him up out of his mundaneness. It is Hagrid coming to Harry and telling him he’s a wizar...2024-09-1721 minThe Myth Pilgrim96 Our Lady of Fatima's extraordinary relevanceSt John Paul II said that “The message of Fatima is more relevant now than ever in the history of mankind.” Hear the amazing story behind Mary's appearance in 1917, and learn how prophecy, seers and cosmic battles play out across the real pages of history. 2024-05-2119 minThe Myth Pilgrim95 Our Lady of Guadalupe's mythical significanceLearn how 10 million Aztecs discovered Christ from within their own mythology, culture and history. What can Our Lady of Guadalupe teach us about inculturation of the gospel message? 2024-05-0720 minThe Myth Pilgrim94 Christ figures in Ancient Mythology: PrometheusRecount the Titan who stole fire from heaven and willingly sacrificed himself for humanity. How does this classical Greek myth have incredible resonace with the mission and passion of Jesus Christ? 2024-04-2314 minThe Myth Pilgrim93 Strategies of Temptation (The Screwtape Letters)How does the devil tempt us, and how gullible are we to his tactics? C.S. Lewis' The Screwtape Letters is a creative exploration of the subtle art of temptation. This episode, learn the arsenal the devil uses against newly converted Christians! (Letter II from the book)2024-04-0916 minThe Myth Pilgrim92 The Queen's Last Dream: an original Easter storyPlunge into the Easter Triduum this year with a lonely queen! This original story of mine illustrates how death and resurrection forms the rhythm of Christian life, and how St Therese of Lisieux's spirituality can inspire us this Easter! 2024-03-2615 minThe Myth Pilgrim91 Rogue One, Christian Sacrifice & EternityThis episode is a meditation on gratitude. The much acclaimed Star Wars: Rogue One offers us an opportunity to reflect upon all the thankless people in our lives, people who have sacrificed to make you, you! What impact will your sacrifices make, upon generations to come?2024-03-0520 minThe Myth Pilgrim90 Aragorn & the Four Cardinal VirtuesBlurb: The four cardinal virtues (Prudence, Temperence, Fortitude and Justice) are as important as they are forgotten. Follow St Thomas Aquinas and Aragorn as they offer examples of each virtue from The Lord of the Rings.Excerpt from episode: "An example of Aragorn’s prudence takes place shortly after Gandalf the grey is apparently slain by the Balrog inside the mines of Moria. Naturally, the fellowship are in grief and shock, unable to think rationally. After Gandalf’s fall, they are immediately ambushed by orcs and are in immediate peril. Checking his own emotions, Aragorn realises that he m...2024-02-2018 minThe Myth Pilgrim89 Tangled, Rapunzel and seeing the LightTangled presents us a chance to explore St John Paul II's Theology of the Body! Explore his profound teaching on love, lust and eros alongside Rapunzel, Mother Gothel & Flynn. Let's follow the light!Excerpt from episode: "I love the fact that the floating lanterns are released every year on Rapunzel's birthday, because the church actually recognises that baptism is our true birthday, for on that day we are born into the kingdom of God. So there’s a big baptism detail already. Then there’s the thousands of light floating off and illuminating the night! Recall that bapti...2024-02-0620 minThe Myth Pilgrim88 The Neverending Story's neverending wisdomWe can only access our inner worlds symbolically, and our myths and fairytales have always helped us do this. Explore how Atreyu's journey mirrors Bastian's real-world experiences, revealing how the real hero's journey lies within.Soundtrack credits: tracks are borrowed from the OST of The Neverending Story (by Klaus Doldinger)2024-01-2321 minThe Myth Pilgrim87 Glow: A Christmas story (by Sr Angela Uybaretta MGL)Do you sometimes feel invisible and insignificant? Join Sr Angela Uybaretta MGL as she narrates her original story "Glow". Follow this slow and dim star as she travels across the galaxy, to find the One True Light! "... Quietly tucked away in the heavenly sky called Stardom, lived a simple, cheerful, preciously ordinary star named Glow. She was born the tiniest star and with a hole in her heart. This birth mark was like no other for each star gave off light from their hearts. Unlike other stars who were fast and bright, Glow was slow-moving, and her l...2023-12-2024 minThe Myth Pilgrim86 The Last Samurai: On Discipline & Habit BuildingAmong many things, The Last Samurai exhibits the beauty of a disciplined life and spirit. Follow the traumatised Captain Algren as he is recieved into the Samurai village and undergoes spiritual awakening. Practical Pilgrim ExerciseVideo - Atomic Habits Summary (by James Clear)2023-12-1222 minThe Myth Pilgrim85 Annie: celebrating the family vocation (ft. Karen Luzan)We are all orphans in the spiritual life, and Annie offers us an image of our yearning. Journey with Annie and Mr Warbucks, as paediatric occupational therapist Karen Luzan spotlights the Catholic vocation of family! 2023-11-2824 minThe Myth Pilgrim84 Dante's profound journey into Heaven through HellLearn how love leads Dante through the depths of Hell, up mount Purgatory and into the highest Heavens! Discover why The Divine Comedy is one of the most theologically significant Catholic works of all time, and one of it's greatest love stories. Excerpt from episode: "Dear friends, how many stories do you know dare to traverse the pits of hell while also ascending to the highest heavens? In the 1200s, an exiled Italian poet wrote a very profound love story, one that is now known as The Divine Comedy. This part fiction, part autobiographical tale of a...2023-11-1421 min
The Myth Pilgrim83 An original story about The Dark Night of the SoulSt John of the Cross' 'Dark Night of the Soul' is as much bewildering as it is misunderstood. Drawing from my own testimony, I share an original story, "The Fallen Knight" to explain the key features of the Dark Night, and why it is an indispensable gift for our spiritual growth.Further recommended reading: The Impact of God (Fr Iain Matthew): An excellent general introduction to St John of the Cross's spirituality, and his concept of Night Dark Nights of the Soul (Thomas Moore): A brilliant read from an author who is both theologian a...2023-11-0123 minThe Myth Pilgrim82 The Karate Kid: recovering Warrior, King & Sage for our menA healthy masculine journey progesses through the stages of Warrior, King and Sage ... or so our great myths tell us! Yet, all three expressions are in crisis in the West, and the consequences are far reaching. Join Daniel-san and Mr Miyagi, re-learning the key stages of masculine initiation. Recommended reading on Masculine Spirituality Healing the Masculine Soul – Gordon DalbeyWild at Heart – John EldredgeAdam’s Return – Richard Rohr2023-09-0521 minThe Myth Pilgrim81 Narnia: Remembering, and how it saves our soulsMore Aslan wisdom! Spiritual maturity is as much about remembering as it is about growing. Allow this famous passage from the Silver Chair, to shed light on the forgotten significance of remembrance throughout the bible. Excerpt from episode: "Today I feel drawn to only hone in on one feature, remembering, and the importance of remembering in the spiritual life. By remembering here I do not merely refer to the recollection of information, but rather, to make present a promise of God, or an act of God. You’ll recall that Aslan tells Jill to remember the four sig...2023-08-2221 minThe Myth Pilgrim80 Snow White: On Jealousy & freedom from itThis most classic of fairytales is not only profoundly Christian in it's story and symbols, it offers us a reflection on jealousy, and a way out of it. Excerpt from episode: ... "Snow White represents a type of Eve, who is lowly and yet incredibly beautiful in the eyes of God – woman as depicted in Genesis is the pinnacle of God’s creation, and its crowning beauty. Amen! Like Eve, Snow White is the mother of all living things (which is what the name Eve means), and has a close connection with all the animals in her kingdom. Satan...2023-08-0820 minThe Myth Pilgrim79 Crouching Tiger, Hidden Meaning: on Order & ChaosA new 'Chinese philosophy and holiness' episode! Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon offers not only a expose of Confucian and Taoist philosophies, it also offers Christians reflection on the balance between order and chaos in our lives. Both are vital dimensions of a flourishing spirituality, but are they both welcome? Excerpt from episode:"Dear friends, this is the fourth episode on the Myth Pilgrim that follows the theme of Chinese philosophy and holiness. Today, I present before you Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, a cultural icon not only in Asia, but also in the West. Winning the...2023-07-2521 minThe Myth Pilgrim78 Titanic: On Hubris & the Eternal Love Story11 Oscar winner Titanic is both a mythical love story and a dire warning against hubris (arrogance towards the gods). Learn how divine love conquers hubris, and how Jack and Rose reveals Christ's love upon the cross! Excerpt: ..."substitute Rose and Jack with us and God, and you’ll realise that an experience of divine love is akin to flying, it expands our horizons, sets us free and gives us a future full of hope. Partnering with God it’s a bit like sailing into a sunset – there’s enough light to allure us, but mystery enough to seduce us...2023-07-1120 minThe Myth Pilgrim77 Why nothing is 'Bigger than Ben Hur!'The 1959 Ben Hur is epic not only in scale, but also in spiritual depth. Follow the exile and redemption of Judah Ben Hur, and feel the tension between faithfulness and idolatry, vengeance and forgiveness.2023-06-2721 minThe Myth Pilgrim76 Braveheart: Love, Death & the Masculine Soul (ft. Br James MGL)Braveheart has always captured the hearts of men, but how does it capture the heart of Christ? Br James Price explores how William Wallace's passionate heart reveals Jesus' heart for his bride. Rediscover Christ as the archetype of manhood!2023-06-1325 minThe Myth Pilgrim75 Shrek: The parody that became a classicComedic crudeness aside, why do the Shrek movies have such heart? Learn how the Scottish ogre can help us navigate an era of cancel culture, hyper-romanticism and decline in platonic friendships. Excerpt from episode: ... "This is where Donkey’s character is so profound. If there was one word I could use to describe Donkey’s virtue it would be the word ‘inoffendable’ if that’s even a word. It means that he is able to withstand the barrage of Shrek’s ugliness and rudeness and have these insults roll off like water off a duck’s back, not taking it p...2023-05-3020 minThe Myth Pilgrim74 The Legend of Zelda: Heroism & our Spiritual YearningFor 37 years, the Legend of Zelda franchise has allowed millions to 'live out' a mythical story. Why is this series so universally popular? What desires is it tapping into? Learn the ways Link and Princess Zelda can unveil the call of the spiritual journey! For those of you who are interested, I have transcribed my academic paper on "A Pastoral Response to Video Game Addiction in Teenagers" here. 2023-05-1622 minThe Myth Pilgrim73 The Hunger Games: On Ritual Sacrifice & JesusWhy did so many ancient civilisations offer sacrifice? How did Jesus' sacrifice overthrow the the Jewish Temple? Discover the parallels between Katniss Everdeen overthrowing the Hunger Games, and the mission of Christ! Excerpt from episode: "... And so, for 73 years, countless young tributes were sacrificed for this false sense of order. Then, comes Katniss Everdeen, who through love of her sister and friends, breaks the whole system and exposes the inhumane sham of the sacrificial ritual. When Katniss refused to play by the game-makers rules, and threatened to leave the Hunger Games without a winner, the effect upon t...2023-05-0220 minThe Myth Pilgrim72 Sleeping Beauty & the Slumber of Sin (ft. Sr Rosie Drum)Despite popular opinion, Sleeping Beauty is NOT about a helpless female waiting for the strong man to rescue her. Rather, this classical tale reaches into the reality of the Fall and the subsequent redemption of Christ. Allow Sr Rosie Drum to baptise this tale into the heart of the Gospel! Excerpt from episode: "... from that perspective, all of us are Snow White, or Briar Rose, or Sleeping Beauty. All of us are incapable of moving beyond sin and evil that has trapped us into a coma. And those of us that are awake to the human struggle ... w...2023-04-1822 minThe Myth Pilgrim73 Easter story: The Legend of the Everspring TreeThis Holy Week, allow me to share an original fairytale I wrote, one inspired by Jesus' passion and resurrection. If you're drawn to adventure, romance, mystery and the hero's journey, this is the tale for you! Blurb: "A young apothecary who has a bright future in his kingdom. In a single moment however, his vocation is shattered and the apothecary sets out on a remarkable quest. Journey with him through failure and glory, death and life, heartbreak and love." The illustrated picture book is available now via Amazon!2023-04-0620 minThe Myth Pilgrim70 Chess & the Spiritual LifeThe game of chess can teach us much about life, especially the spiritual life! Dive into the spiritual principals behind (1) controlling the centre of the board (2) knowing your enemy (3) valuing the smallest piece, and (4) strategizing with the final objective in mind.Excerpt from episode: "... It is pretty clear from looking at chess that it is a war game, with two sides lined up on opposing side of the board, with complete opposite colours. As such, we should approach the game of chess with the general’s hat on, rather than just going about things haphazardly and randomly. No...2023-03-2818 minThe Myth Pilgrim69 Harry Potter: on Salvific Death & ResurrectionJ.K. Rowling herself cited how Christianity shaped not only Harry Potter's finale, but the saga as a whole. Walk through Harry's passion, death and resurrection, and learn why Lily and James’ tombstone says “The last Enemy that shall be destroyed is death” (1 Cor 15:26). Excerpt: "... Okay, so how is the ending so Christian? Today, we’ll hone in on three details. First, we’ll explore the significance of beheading the serpent Nagini, and specifically, the Mary-like role that Lily Potter plays in aiding her son’s defeat over evil! Secondly will be Harry’s passion and death in the Forbidd...2023-03-1423 minThe Myth PilgrimSpecial: Catholicism, Art & why "Beauty will save the World" (ft. Damien Walker)What does beauty do to the soul? Why are artists called to be champions of the new evangelisation? In this special episode, I interview Damien Walker, Catholic artist and art restorer, whose message for the church is prophetic! Check out Damien's Art Studio: The Studio of St Philomena Here is the image and details on Our Lady of New Zealand: Te Ara a Maria A link also to St John Paul II's Letter to Artists 2023-02-2821 minThe Myth Pilgrim67 A study of Angels, Fallen Angels & FairytalesAngels, guardian angels & fallen angels (demons) are truths upheld by the Catholic faith. Strangely today, its our myths and fairytales that proclaim their reality more than most churches. This episode uses these stories to rediscover the friends and foes in the spiritual realm. Excerpt from episode: "See, our myths and fairytales remind us what the Celtic Christians used to say: the world is porous and thin, and permeable by the spiritual realm. Whether we personally feel at peace or in conflict, there is a spiritual battle taking place which draws in the whole of creation. This certain e...2023-02-1423 minThe Myth Pilgrim66 Gladiator's Mythical & Spiritual SignificanceHow does virtue carry a man through hellish injustice? Not only is Gladiator a profound spiritual allegory, Maximus' hero's journey illuminates the path we all must take as Christians. Excerpt from episode: "What makes Gladiator mythical is that the Maximus returning from exile wasn’t the same Maximus as the one pre-fall but one infinitely greater, and that it was precisely through his suffering and death, that his true greatness was accomplished. Think about it: in the beginning when all was going well for Maximus, he served Rome well, was loved by his solders and helped extend Ro...2023-01-3123 minThe Myth Pilgrim65 Christmas special: The inspiring story behind 'O Holy Night'The story behind the writing of 'O Holy Night' is as inspiring as the carol itself. God always uses the most unlikely of sources and circumstances for his glory! This Advent, reflect upon how "modern man cannot find God because he won't look low enough." Excerpt from episode: "However, when Cappeau officially walked away from the faith and became part of the French socialist movement, and church leaders discovered that Adam was a Jew, the Catholic church enforced a sudden ban upon the song. O Holy Night was officially blacklisted, for how could a hymn coming from s...2022-12-2014 minThe Myth Pilgrim64 Interstellar: On Science & the Eternal Love StoryDespite it's sci-fi trappings, Nolan's Interstellar is one of the greatest love stories ever told. Unpack how black holes, gravity and time travel illuminate the story of human salvation, and how the love of the Resurrection "transcends the dimensions of time and space.""Stripped to its bare bones, Interstellar is a story about human salvation. Or more accurately a story about the desperate rescue mission to save humanity from extinction. As such, if I could summarise the story of Interstellar in one sentence, it is this: “how the faithful love between a father and his daughter, could ov...2022-12-0622 minThe Myth Pilgrim63 Lord of the Rings: The weapons of humour and innocence (ft. Danny Cote Davis)Who is the greatest warrior against Sauron? Guest Danny Davis explores how two forgotten characters—Tom Bombadil and Goldberry—teaches us about the weapons of innocence and humour.Danny's Book "Guests, Hosts and the Holy Ghost: Who Tolkien's Tom Bombadil and Goldberry are and why it really matters"Here is an Amazon link to the book, with a foreword from Joseph Pearce! 2022-11-2220 minThe Myth Pilgrim62 Inside Out: On Emotions & HolinessEmotions are barely discussed within the faith context, and if they are, often negatively. Pixar's Inside Out opens up much needed discussion about how emotions are misunderstood / misused, while also providing us a map for Christian holiness. Further Reading (practical pilgrim reflection)Owning Your Own Shadow - Robert A. Johnson (Robert is a Catholic author who is also well versed in Jungian psychology)Atlas of the Heart - Dr Brene Brown (Brene is a bestselling TED speaker and author The Gifts of Imperfection which is also worth reading if you want to explore vulnerability and shame) I...2022-11-0822 minThe Myth Pilgrim61 The Trials that made C.S. LewisC.S. Lewis, the mind behind Narnia, did not have an easy life. See how God uses the crucibles of loneliness, challenging domestic life and existential crisis to forge one of the greatest authors and apologists of our times. Short excerpt from episode: "... C.S. Lewis never had it easy at home or in the family life … right from childhood all the way to his death. After his mother’s ultimately death when he was nine, Lewis’s relationship with his father became deeply strained, as his father grew more and more distant. You could almost say he gre...2022-10-2521 minThe Myth Pilgrim60 Chinese Philosophy & Holiness #3: Fable of Farmer's HorseHow do we navigate times of misfortune and suffering? Allow the wisdom of this Chinese fable to teach us patience and detachment. Learn how "Acting without forcefulness" helps us surrender to Divine Providence. Excerpt from episode: "After all, without the mind of God himself, can I truly judge an accident, or a missed opportunity or a broken relationship to be definitively bad? After all, if the horse hadn’t run off at the start of the story, the farmer’s son would probably be dead in the war. Chinese wisdom would suggest that this fable is actu...2022-10-1117 minThe Myth Pilgrim59 Moby Dick's Timeless SignificanceWhy is a captain obsessing after a whale considered a classical story? This episode will dive into the mythical and spiritual significance of Moby Dick, exploring our unconscious, forgotten images of God, the quest for self-knowledge, and the path to sanctity. Practical Pilgrim Reflection: Here are some favourite praise songs of mine, to boost you in your Practical Pilgrim reflection Your Majesty (Jarred Cooper)King of Kings (Hillsong)Behold Him (Paul Baloche)Hark the Herald Angels SingSoundtrack credits: Wellerman - Sea Shanty (cover by RochaMusic), Jurassic Park theme - John Williams, Nine Years On Shor...2022-09-2720 minThe Myth Pilgrim58 Frodo & three Saints who (apparently) epic failedWhy did Tolkien make Frodo epic fail at the last moment? Today, we'll look at the 'failure' stories of St Charles de Foucauld, St Louise de Marillac and St Joseph of Cupertino. Be encouraged by the fact that "God doesn't ask us to be successful, he asks us to be faithful." Excerpt from episode: "How I plan to structure this episode is as follows. First, I will tell you the stories of three saints who in the eyes of the world failed big time... this will make up the first half of the episode. Then, I will...2022-09-1320 minThe Myth Pilgrim57 The Desert Heart - An Original StoryThis is a short story I was inspired to write, very much inspired by the experience of finding God in the wilderness. Join Pirum the orphan as he sets out to find the treasures of the desert, treasures he hopes will make him wise. Here are the first two paragraphs of the story: "Once upon a time, there was a great desert filled with many hidden treasures. At the desert’s edge stood an ancient kingdom, where tales were often told of how the desert’s treasures made their finders wise. Hearing such tales, one young orphan becam...2022-08-3020 minThe Myth Pilgrim56 Pixar's Up: On Grief and Broken DreamsThe experience of grief and broken dreams is often a lonely journey, yet Pixar’s Up gives us language to share it. Journey with the heartbroken Carl, and learn Christian wisdom for our seasons of loss.Practical Pilgrim reflection: Excellent video talk about the life of St Charles de Foucauld (Fr James Wang) Excerpt from episode: "... Grief, especially of losing a loved one is always a paradox. It is the paradox of letting someone go in this lifetime, while at the same time, honouring their memory forever. How this works out in real life is al...2022-08-1622 minThe Myth Pilgrim55: C.S. Lewis, Lust & the whispering Lizard (The Great Divorce)Within C.S. Lewis' 'The Great Divorce' is a profound story about a man, a lizard and an angel. Enter the real struggle of temptation, attachment and the exhilaration of being set free! Excerpt from episode: "...Firstly, note the sheer resistance the Ghost had to allowing God to burn the lizard off. While the lizard represents the man’s attachment to lust, I want to suggest the lizard stands for any attachment or idol or habit that has grasped and possessed us and taken away our freedom. From my pastoral experiences, we all have a Big Sin that...2022-08-0222 min
The Myth Pilgrim54 Special: How Christianity shaped (& saves) Western CivilisationEven for a person without faith, Christianity’s influence on western civilization is undeniable. How? Here are seven ways Christianity shaped—and can save—the values we take for granted: (1) The inviolable dignity of the person (2) The pursuit of truth (3) A belief that history is linear (4) Love and family (5) The upholding of both individuals and community (6) Meaning in suffering and death (7) The eternal perspective on life.Excerpt from episode: "... what is the significance of the belief in that God is Truth? Well, today we say things like ‘oh there’s no such things as truth, or ‘we live in a po...2022-07-1921 minThe Myth Pilgrim53 Rey Skywalker & the Biblical Call NarrativeBeing creatures of habit, when God calls there is often resistance! Allow the calling stories of Abraham, Jeremiah and others shed new light on Rey Skywalker, as the Force calls her out of desert scavenging into Jedi deliverer. Excerpt from episode: "Biblical call narratives are fascinating to follow because they inspire and challenge us, to respond that way too! And if you ask me, one of the reasons why the Star Wars saga has been so popular for like four decades, is precisely because each of the three heroes from all three trilogies: Anakin, Luke and Rey Sk...2022-07-0522 minThe Myth Pilgrim52 Cinderella: Politically incorrect or spiritual genius?Rediscover Cinderella's profound Christian roots and storyline! How do glass slippers, fairy godmothers, ash-covered princesses and a cat named Lucifer echo the biblical story of salvation? Excerpt from episode: "... If I were to quickly retell Cinderella through the Christian framework, it would go something like this. Cinderella symbolises fallen humanity, with our true dignity covered over by the ashes of sin. We are held captive by the vanity and vices of the world, represented by the wicked stepfamily (who have a cat named Lucifer). The prince stands in the place of Christ, who takes the initiative to r...2022-06-2122 minThe Myth Pilgrim51 How Narnia depicts The Last JudgementWhat happens at the moment of our death? The last judgement is often a confusing and anxiety-ridden topic. Allow C.S. Lewis and his Narnia Aslan to open up a conversation about Christ the judge! Discover how this neglected doctrine can inspire within us love, life and the pursuit of truth!Excerpt: "...but even so, what person in their right mind would want to not choose God? What Narnian creature would not want to enter the door, and instead swerve away into Aslan’s shadow? Well, this passage gives us a clue. Remember that detail that when th...2022-06-0720 minThe Myth Pilgrim50 Freedom from Shame: Hunchback of Notre DameShame is crippling and difficult to discuss openly. Yet Quasimodo and Frollo provide an excellent platform to explore shame, its effects and the means to be free from it. Learn what this Disney classic can teach about vulnerability, and the God who became an outcast first. Watch here the: Esmerelda encountering Quasimodo scene referenced this episode Scripture quote for meditation: “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin an...2022-05-2422 minThe Myth Pilgrim49 Captain America & Heroic Virtue (ft. Fr James Baptist)Despite many iconic superheroes in the MCU, the ‘ordinary’ Cap tops most polls as favourite. Why is this? Fr James Baptist explores the origins and inspiration of Steve Rogers, and describes his own connection with the character’s virtues. Journey with the superhero that has been dubbed by foe and friend as “God’s righteous man.” Here are some of the clips mentioned in the podcast: Dr Erskin's chat with Steve Rogers ((Captain America: The First Avenger)The Grenade scene (Captain America: The First Avenger)The Portal scene ((Avengers: Endgame)Here also is the clip from Fr Mike S...2022-05-1021 minThe Myth Pilgrim48 Encanto's significance #2: Baptism in the Spirit (ft. Bernadette Toohey MGL)How does a Disney movie open up a conversation about The Baptism in the Holy Spirit? Join Bernadette MGL, myself & Encanto's cast (and mansion) as we explore our church in crisis and the incredible grace poured out for its renewal!'Deeper' Retreat (June, 2022)“Delve deeper in your experience of Baptism in the Holy Spirit, be encouraged in discipleship, activate the charismatic gifts and be equipped for mission through inputs, discussion, prayer and practical workshops.”Target: Those who want to grow deeper in the grace of the Baptism in the SpiritDates: 1-5 June, 2022Venue 1: Varroville, NSW Aust...2022-04-2620 minThe Myth Pilgrim47 A special Easter story - The Tale of the Three TreesEnter the mystery of Holy Week through one my FAVOURITE short stories ever! I’ve loved the Tale of the Three Trees since I was a child … and I trust the beauty and simple truth of the story will lift your gaze heavenward too! You can read along with the text of the story here.To listen to another great Easter Triduum story, please visit the The Lonely Little Cave episode, written by Br Lawrence and Fr Dave Tremble MGL!Soundtrack: A special thanks to Rebecca E Tripp for allowing me to use her...2022-04-1211 minThe Myth Pilgrim46 Chinese Philosophy & Holiness #2: Shang ChiOur image of healthy masculinity and femininity is as wounded today as it is diminished. Borrowing Chinese wisdom from Shang Chi, learn how the biblical vision of man and woman can be illustrated through the Taoist Yin and Yang. Learn how Ying Li embodies both the gentleness and strength of Mother Mary! Excerpt: "... Like in the bible, this truth is echoed in Taoist wisdom. A man should still be Yang dominated – strong, intelligent, determined etc… but also, learn to be compassionate, tender and patient. Jesus himself was like this – and he is masculinity per excellence. At the same t...2022-03-2920 minThe Myth Pilgrim45 On War, Tragedy and Tolkien's journey through itBlurb: Few realise that The Lord of the Rings author was a frontline soldier in WWI, one who knew tragedy and loss first hand. Given the looming shadow of war today, we journey with a man into his own Mordor, to allow his life, faith and creation to speak to our times. Excerpt: "...Years later, when asked by his own son Christopher about the effect of the war on him, he writes “I took to 'escapism': or really transforming experience into another form and symbol with Morgoth and Orcs and the Eldalië (representing beauty and grace of lif...2022-03-1521 minThe Myth Pilgrim44 Encanto's spiritual significance #1 (ft. Bernadette Toohey MGL)Disney’s Encanto is a spiritual banquet … hence, we SHOULD talk about Bruno! Join guest speaker Bernadette Toohey MGL and I, as we explore the hidden spiritual gifts, our dignity, the centrality of family and what makes truly Encanto prophetic for our times!Excerpt: "...one of our focus areas at the moment in MGL sisters particularly, is allowing people to really know and to move out really powerfully in the spiritual gifts in the gifts that were given through the Holy Spirit...... regarding Bruno, I was thinking a little bit back to the prophets like Jere...2022-03-0123 minThe Myth Pilgrim43 The Matrix & ChristianityDon't be deceived by the sci-fi wrappings of The Matrix - it is not only profoundly mythical in structure, but also deeply Christian. Learn how how the first movie presents the theology of salvation, the Holy Trinity, the nature of evil and spiritual blindness!"...Further, the first time in the Gospels Jesus meets John the Baptist (at least as grown ups), it was at his baptism in the Jordan river. Likewise, the first time Neo meets Morpheus, it is also at his equivalent baptism scene … with lots and lots of water present. First it is a thunder st...2022-02-1522 minThe Myth Pilgrim42 The Quest for the Holy GrailDespite the holy grail's many appearances within pop culture, very little is actually known about how the original legend went ... and why. Be inspired by Sir Galahad's original quest, and be challenged to deepen your understanding of the sacraments! Excerpt from episode: "... note the fact the grail is not presented as some treasure to be found that would instantly reward its finder. This makes the grail unlike something like, say the philosophers stone that promises to turn its discoverer into a wealthy person because of its ability to transmute any material into gold – like this would happen whe...2022-02-0120 minThe Myth Pilgrim41 Christmas special - The story of St Nicholas (aka Santa Claus)You've probably heard that Santa Claus was based upon St Nicholas - but how well do you know his story? In this special episode, discover the legend behind St Nicholas and allow his story to shed fresh light upon presents this Christmas.Excerpt from episode "... wanting to remain hidden, bishop Nicholas instead climbs onto their roof, and throws the bag of money down the chimney into the fireplace. Some accounts say that the money, or at least a few coins, landed in the stockings being dried by the fireplace, from which the tradition of hanging Christmas stockings...2021-12-1907 minThe Myth Pilgrim40 Mercy & Redemption through Les MisérablesDo you ever feel beyond redemption, or that someone is undeserving of mercy? Discover what message makes Les Miserables the longest running musical of all time, and let the journey of Jean Valjean become your own!Excerpt from episode: “…what happens next to that criminal we don’t know, but we do know that in this famous Les Miserables bishop scene, the criminal Valjean is shown mercy and is cut to the heart. He is shaken to the core by the bishop’s small act, and his life radically turns around 180 degrees. Whatever resentful worldview he had carried...2021-12-1423 minThe Myth Pilgrim39 Are 'Happily Ever After' endings naive?Some accuse fairytales for setting up unrealistic expectations about life, love and fulfilment. What might be the Christian position on this? This episode locates fairytale endings within Jesus' resurrection, exploring how repentance is key to unlocking happily ever after today. Excerpt from episode: "... okay, why did I share this passage from the Silmarillion? Because it illustrates a uniquely Christian understanding of how 'happily ever after' works. If Melkor’s ugly melody could be likened to our sin, then Illuvitar's final melody can be likened to Christ’s redemption, in which he takes our sinful melody and permanently trans...2021-11-3021 minThe Myth Pilgrim38 Mastering your Greatest Fear (in How to Train your Dragon)What is your greatest fear, and how would your life be different without it? “How to Train Your Dragon” is a beautiful tale about mastering one’s fear. Journey with Hiccup, unveil biblical truths about the nature of fear, and learn how it can transform into your greatest ally. "... There's something really important about gazing and looking at the object of one's fear in order to master it. I deliberately used the word "mastering" rather than "conquering" fear. This is what Hiccup had an opportunity to do with the trapped Night Fury, Toothless. Carl Jung says that 'the th...2021-11-1623 minThe Myth Pilgrim37 Robin Hood & the Christ figure we've lostRobin Hood famously ‘robbed from the rich to give to the poor’ ... but so did Jesus of Nazareth! And he still does so today. How? Journey with these two infamous outlaws, and have any ‘meek and mild’ notions of Jesus challenged! Excerpt from episode: "Because the reality is, we dear listeners, the church-going, educated, well off ones who listen to awesome Catholic podcasts … we may well be the rich that Christ gives a message of warning. It is we from whom he may well ‘steal’ away our superficial sense of blessedness, to give to the poor. Not that there’s an...2021-11-0220 minThe Myth Pilgrim36 Pinocchio & how conscience gets misunderstood todayA misunderstood notion of “I can just follow my conscience” has been topical lately, even amongst the Catholic faithful. Using the timeless story of Pinocchio (and Jiminy cricket), this episode seeks to clarify what conscience is and isn’t, drawing from the rich teaching of the church. Be inspired and challenged!Key quotes from this episode:“Conscience is a judgment of reason whereby the human person recognizes the moral quality of a concrete act that he is going to perform, is in the process of performing, or has already completed. In all he says and does, ma...2021-10-1924 minThe Myth Pilgrim35 Legendary Weapons and the humble RosarySt Padre Pio called the rosary "the weapon of these times." Discover how the legendary Excalibur, Lightsabre and the Elder Wand have nothing on the rosary. Discover this ancient weapon again, and with the intercession of Mary, defeat the Enemy in your life! Talk: The Rosary: Invincible Weapon - Fr. Bill CaseyTalk: The Rosary: Spiritual Sword of Our Lady - Fr Don CallowayIntro to the Rosary: Bishop Barron on Word on Fire2021-10-0522 minThe Myth Pilgrim34: Hobbits & entering the Greater Story“It's like in the great stories, Mr. Frodo. The ones that really mattered.” There are two stories that can rule our lives: the Me story (Ego-drama) and the God story (Theo-drama). The drama of Christianity is moving from one to the other, and this perilous! Journey with the hobbits as they leave the Shire and learn what it takes to enter the Great Story.Excerpt from episode"...I feel the drama of ‘entering the Great Story’ is the chief reason The Lord of the Rings speaks to our culture, and why we return to story again and agai...2021-09-2121 minThe Myth Pilgrim33 Why I love The Sound of Music! (& why it's timeless)Delight is the stuff of holiness!! And given our present circumstances, we could all do with a helping of Maria's delight and faith. Expand your horizons again, as I testify why Sound of Music is one my favourite movies of all time!Blurb: "We need Maria’s faith, her outlook that carries us with wings to be fully alive again, and to see the problems of life in their proper light. The movie is full of hope, a sort of hope that doesn’t belittle our problems, but helps us look at them with a fresh perspective, help...2021-09-0723 minThe Myth Pilgrim32 Chinese Philosophy & Holiness (Kung Fu Panda)Greek philosophers Plato and Aristotle have long made their mark on Catholic theology ... but what about Confucius and Lao Tzu? Journey through Kung Fu Panda, and discover how Daoist and Confucian principles illuminate Catholic truths! (special thanks to my dad for his input for this episode too!)Excerpt from episode: "As I begin to explore these Taoist principals, can you see how they might shed light upon Christianity? Firstly, at the heart of our faith also lies great paradoxes. After all, we profess Jesus who is both God and man, one who is both mercy and justice...2021-08-2422 minThe Myth Pilgrim31 Frozen: Elsa's Journey & the Journey of Vocation❄️How does my vocation journey lead to my sainthood? Relive the two Frozen films as Queen Elsa unravels the mystery of who she is, and how she is being called. Baptise your favourite songs 'Let it Go', 'Into the Unknown' and 'Show Yourself' through God's call in your own life! ❄️Excerpt from episode: "...she then slams the palace door shut. Now, at this point, I must apologize if I’m about to break a few hearts a little … because I’m going to suggest that while the song ‘Let it Go’ has some positive elements to it, it is actually qui...2021-08-1021 minThe Myth Pilgrim30 Harry Potter and the neglected BeatitudesIf we're honest, the Beatitudes are secretly ignored! After all, how can happiness come from being persecuted, poor, mourning and meek? Allow Harry, who embodies all these traits, to shed light on these enigmatic text! Excerpt from episode: "To recognise that poverty is the native state of every soul is the foundation of building a flourishing life. When we first meet Harry Potter in book one he already knows he has nothing, and to the world, is nothing. he possessed nothing of his own, had no family, friends, or status, and not even a place to call...2021-07-2721 minThe Myth Pilgrim29 St Therese's Little Way through Little Women (ft. guest Sr Kat Stone MGL)Do you doubt that the 'simple' love between family can contain the cosmic love of God? Sr Katherine Stone MGL unpacks how the classic tale of Little Women reveals St Therese of Lisieux's Little Way. Journey alongside Jo March and discover truly heroic love! Practical Pilgrim exercise: Little Women Chapter 42, Part 2: All AloneAll background music used this episode is from the Little Women (1994) OST, by Thomas Newman.2021-07-1321 minThe Myth Pilgrim28 The means to die & rise again: Batman Dark Knight trilogyWhat if life cripples you, plunges you into darkness and renders you unable to rise? Nolan's Dark Knight trilogy is brilliant on this account. For not only does it follow Bruce Wayne's repeated death and rebirth, it offers profound symbolism for Christian resurrection. Excerpt: "Let’s zoom right out and have a macro view of the pattern of Nolan's Batman trilogy. It is very much the pattern of the birth, death and resurrection or Batman - or in biblical terms, the creation, fall and redemption of Batman. The first movie in the trilogy, batman begins – is very much...2021-06-2921 minThe Myth Pilgrim27 JRR Tolkien - Author, Prophet & Mystic (with guest Danny Cote Davis)J.R.R. Tolkien's legacy extends beyond just the Lord of the Rings. This episode, Tolkien expert Danny Cote Davis explores Tolkien's faith, his mystical worldview and why he is considered by many today to be a model evangelist.Here is a link to Danny's documentary "Tolkien About Faith, The Call of Beauty" Here is a prayer for Tolkien's canonisation cause: “O Blessed Trinity, we thank You for having graced the Church with John Ronald Reuel Tolkien and for allowing the poetry of Your Creation, the mystery of the Passion of Your Son, and the sym...2021-06-1523 minThe Myth Pilgrim26 Aladdin’s theology for those feeling trappedAladdin is a tale about being set free! Are you feeling stuck in some circumstance? Learn how the three theological virtues of Faith, Hope and Love set each of the main characters free…Excerpt: the main theme of Aladdin is about 'being set free'! Think about it - all three of the main characters start off feeling trapped … Princess Jasmine is trapped as a prisoner inside her own palace walls, Aladdin is trapped as a common thief in the slums, and the Genie is trapped inside a lamp which is trapped inside the cave of wonders! Yet by t...2021-06-0121 min
The Myth Pilgrim25 My Holy Spirit testimony: Treasure in the Desert (Pentecost episode!)This is a testimony of the time the Holy Spirit suddenly called me to drive out from Darwin all the way to Uluru ... alone! Relive the life-changing graces with me, as I journey literally into the heart of the Australian desert!I've uploaded some of the photos of my Uluru pilgrimage on the website! Here is a list of the my favourite tracks I had playing in the car during my pilgrimage (and this episode!)Sunlands (Octopath Traveller) Wiyathul (Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu)Now we are free (Gladiator)Under the Stars (The Lion King)2021-05-2122 minThe Myth Pilgrim24 The Harry Potter scene that is prophetic for our timesThe persecuted church and the Battle of Hogwarts scene have a lot in common, especially during our times. Recognise the weapons of the Enemy, and like the students, prepare to take up arms!Excerpt from episode"... so how does this siege of Hogwarts scene parallel the church today? In a number of ways: the first will be the fact that both Hogwarts and the church are besieged by supernatural forces that are both malicious and intelligent. Secondly, that it is those who are unprepared and un-initiated that are called upon to defend our respected institutions. And...2021-05-1121 minThe Myth Pilgrim23 Mulan and St Catherine of SienaAside from both having dramatic haircutting moments, what does St Catherine of Siena have to do with Mulan? Hahaha come appreciate how this ancient Chinese heroine can deepen your love for one of our favourite Saints! Excerpt from episode:"...the second parallel between Mulan and Catherine is their rising to the defence of their respective Empires. For Mulan, this feature is very obvious in the role she plays in defending Imperial China from the Hun invasion. Certainly she is credited for doing this by the Emperor himself, who bestows up her the late general’s swo...2021-04-2719 minThe Myth Pilgrim22 The Glorious Death in the Lord of the Rings (with guest Danny Cote Davis)How does death and resurrection form the heart of the LOTR? How can self sacrifice be so desirable? This episode, I interview British Tolkien expert Danny Cote Davis, who sheds light upon Tolkien's vision of life and death through the Eucharist and Mother Mary! Practical Pilgrim reflection: To watch Danny's documentary: Tolkien about Faith: The Call to Beauty A trailer for the amazing Silverion Camps Except from episode "Danny and I then went on to discuss what he felt was the quintessentially Catholic theme in the LOTR. Here, the theme of the glorious death...2021-04-1322 minThe Myth Pilgrim21 The Lonely Little Cave - An Easter Triduum story (by Br Lawrence & Fr Dave MGL)Br Lawrence MGL and Fr Dave Tremble MGL have tag teamed once more to write The Lonely Little Cave, an original story written during and for the Easter Triduum. Enter into the story of the Little Cave, whose emptiness, loneliness and uselessness becomes the very means of encountering our Lord! May it inspire you to enter deeper into the mystery and drama of Easter! Excerpt: "There was once a lonely little cave in a hillside. The cave was unhappy because it always felt empty. Nearby, a majestic Gum Tree taunted it day and night saying “Look at...2021-04-0121 minThe Myth Pilgrim20 How does the Secret Garden image the soul?Heaven, paradise and the soul can be abstract concepts even for Christians. The Secret Garden however, offers many beautiful images that can help us explore these concepts. Join Mary Lennox and discover the sacred place within you!Excerpt from episode: "And during those winter times of our lives, when all we see is a dead looking garden, a friend reminds us it is only dormant, and to hang on for the springtime that’s coming. As Donna Roberts reminds us: “A friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you...2021-03-2319 minThe Myth Pilgrim19 How Mufasa reveals the Father's ferocious love (Lion King theme #2)This episode, discover why the Lion King's Mufasa is such a profound icon of God the Father. Learn how divine tenderness and wrath can both be expressions of the same love.Practical pilgrim exercise: Here is a link to Pope Francis' Apostolic Letter, Patris Corde Excerpt from this episode:"In my opinion, Mufasa is one of the most iconic celebrations of fatherhood in pop culture, precisely because he is able to capture both the strength and the tenderness of the Father’s heart. Unfortunately due to way fatherhood is modelled in western culture, on...2021-03-0920 minThe Myth Pilgrim18 Jedi Masters & our Desire for DetachmentFeeling distracted and unfocused? Lent is the season to rediscover the ascetic life! Let the wisdom of Jedi masters help you renounce unhealthy attachments to (i) created things (ii) success (iii) and the future.Excerpt from episode: “…For if ever a pop culture figure rises to cult status, very often it is because they are deeply resonating with an absence in our culture. What voids might the iconic Jedi knights be filling for our culture? Today, we’ll start with the idea that Jedi stir within us a desire for what Christians called the ascetic life, one that i...2021-02-2320 minThe Myth Pilgrim17 On the Harry Potter debate: A Catholic perspective todayHi friends!! 🍃🧜😄 After many requests, here's a special episode addressing questions around the suitability of Harry Potter for Christians. This episode discusses (i) how Christians relate with alleged occult and magic content in fiction (ii) debunks unhelpful rumours about Harry Potter (iii) the place of spiritual discernment when engaging with any secular content (iv) some practical considerations for parents regarding literature. *Note - this episode contains spoilers!*Full transcript of this special episode is available on the website 2021-02-0924 minThe Myth Pilgrim16 Pocahontas & Living by the Holy SpiritWhat does yielding to the Holy Spirit look and feel like? This episode we follow Pocahontas, whose relationship with the Wind and the River provide wonderful reflections on the Spirit in our own lives! Veni Sancte Spiritus! Download a copy of the Daily Examen hereExcerpt from episode: "What is abundantly clear from the promise of both Jesus and the witness of the Acts of the Apostles is that the Holy Spirit is central to the life of a Christian. The Holy Spirit is the way Jesus continues to be present with us, and to b...2021-01-2621 min
The Myth PilgrimThank you!! Merry Christmas & Quick MessageThank you all for being epic companions! Looking forward to the next leg of the pilgrimage after a little break!2020-12-2301 minThe Myth Pilgrim15 The Virgin Mary in Tolkien's The Lord of the RingsWhy does Tolkien cite Mary as his primary inspiration for "beauty both in majesty and simplicity"? Deepen in your own love for Mother Mary this episode! Reflect on her example, her mission and her power. Be amazed at the way Marian theology permeates the entire The Lord of the Rings.Full Transcript of episode available on websitePiano music this episode thanks to Keys of Peace: Website YouTube SpotifyExcerpt from episode: "When a Jesuit friend once wrote to Tolkien regarding how Mary-like so many of his characters were...2020-12-1520 minThe Myth Pilgrim14 How Aslan teaches Fear of the Lord (Narnia theme #2)Are fear and love compatible ways of knowing Jesus? Why is "The fear of the Lord the beginning of all wisdom" (Prov 9:10)? Allow Narnia's majestic Aslan, the king "who is not safe, but good" deepen your desire for holy fear! Let literature's greatest Christ archetype lead you to encounter the living God! The final passage mentioned in the episode where Lucy meets Aslan in "Prince Caspian" (C.S. Lewis): "... But for the movement of his tail he might have been a stone lion, but Lucy never thought of that. She never stopped to think whether he...2020-12-0120 minThe Myth Pilgrim13 New Horizons: Moana's Communion of SaintsIsn't Christianity about a 'personal relationship' with God? Why also the Communion of Saints? Let Moana's voyage expand your spiritual horizons! As she grows to appreciate the bigger story she is part of, discover how Love flows between the barriers of life and death, time and space! Links to the two scenes mentioned this episode:Grandma's stingray Moana's ancestors Episodes excerpt: "...This scene is beautiful on so many. Firstly, it demonstrates that true love transcends the barriers of life and death, of time and space. While the story of Moana obv...2020-11-1920 minThe Myth Pilgrim12 Recognising Sauron's Ring in our lives (Lord of the Rings theme #3)This episode explores three ways Sauron's Ring is particularly active today: (i) the influence of the media (ii) division within the church and (iii) hyper-individualism. Learn to recognise how we can all fall sway to the Ring, but more importantly, how to be free of its power! Excerpt: "In Catholic-Christian theology, evil is both an exterior reality and an interior reality, something both out there, and inside us. The genius of Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings is that he is able express evil in both these external and internal forms. For example, Sauron is clearly an evi...2020-11-0320 minThe Myth Pilgrim11 Temptation: What Anakin could've learned from St Ignatius (Star Wars theme #3)During times of temptation and desolation, St Ignatius of Loyola's 'Discernment of Spirits' offers us some timeless principles. How well do you know them? Explore the sly techniques The Emperor uses to seduce Anakin to the Dark Side, and learn to recognise - and defend against - the Enemy working in your own life!See website for all resources mentioned for this episode: themythpilgrim.com 2020-10-2020 minThe Myth Pilgrim10 Entering Narnia with Plato & St Therese of LisieuxWelcome to Narnia! This episode, we do philosophy with Plato and theology with St Therese of Lisieux. We will explore the ideas of truth, reality, and why Jesus insists that only children can enter the Kingdom of Heaven ... and Narnia!Excerpt: "Today is our first venture into one of the greatest series of children’s books of all time – C.S. Lewis’ the Chronicles of Narnia. Now there could be an entire podcast series just on Narnia; so rich is it Christian symbolism, and so insightful is the mind of C.S. Lewis. So many Christian themes all th...2020-10-0619 minThe Myth Pilgrim09 The Ugly Duckling & the healing of shame (with Fr Dave Tremble)In this special release episode, guest speaker Fr Dave Tremble MGL weaves together The Ugly Duckling, the Passion of Jesus, and his own story. Locate your own story within the Suffering Servant’s, and explore the topic of shame under a new gaze. Recommended books by Dr Brene BrownThe Gifts of ImperfectionDaring GreatlyDr Brene's TED talk "The power of vulnerability": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iCvmsMzlF7oExcerpt from episode: "In her bestselling book The Gifts of Imperfection, Dr Brene Brown describes shame as always involving a social context. Shame is not just as...2020-09-2918 minThe Myth Pilgrim08 How The Lion King reveals Identity and VocationHave you ever considered how the spirit of The Lion King weaves beautifully with the spirit of the Bible? 25 years later, the story still touches us deeply and satisfies our deepest longings. Explore the themes of the Father's love, exile, baptism, identity and vocation ... and the threading together of two of the greatest stories ever told! Excerpt from the episode: "Jesus of course is the biblical exemplar of everything I just said. Have you ever noticed that this Mufasa apparition scene looks suspiciously like the baptism of Jesus? In both scenes, the father’s presence is made man...2020-09-2219 minThe Myth Pilgrim07 Yoda & the wisdom of the wilderness (Star Wars theme #2)Biblically, the wilderness seemed to be God's preferred meeting place. Why? And why are the wise men of myth and legend always found in the wilderness? Journey with Luke Skywalker in The Empire Strikes Back, and explore the parallels between Yoda’s training and Catholic spirituality!Excerpt "... You may be surprised at how many heroes in both myth and biblical stories actually (a) find themselves in some sort of wilderness (b) encounter there the wisdom they need to continue on their journey. In the great Sumerian Epic of Gilgamesh, king Gilgamesh’s quest for immortality takes him into...2020-09-0816 minThe Myth Pilgrim06 Hobbits and the Spiritual Value of Rest (Lord of the Rings theme #2)Rest ... we could all do with more of it! But what part does it play in the Catholic spiritual life? Explore how the spirituality of rest permeates The Lord of the Rings. Learn how even in the middle of their urgent mission, hobbits made a place for rest and celebration. If today you're feeling like "butter spread over too much bread", be replenished within the Fellowship! Some good further reading: Abandonment to Divine Providence (Jean-Pierre de Caussade)Leisure, The Basis of Culture (Josef Pieper)2020-08-2519 minThe Myth Pilgrim05 The Little Mermaid and Old Testament TragedyHow well do you know the original story of the Little Mermaid? Hans Christian Anderson's tale is quite different from the Disney retelling, and has some pretty developed Christian themes. Be moved, delighted and challenged this episode, and discover why you have the soul of a mermaid! I have found a 1975 animation of The Little Mermaid which is much closed to the original Hans Christian Anderson tale. It's quite well done! You can access it on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=djA3BHG6utc 2020-08-1119 minThe Myth Pilgrim04 Dragons and the place of anger in the spiritual life (with Fr Tony Schick)Just why are we so obsessed with dragons, and stories about dragons? Guest speaker Fr Tony Schick MGL offers piercing insight into the nature of anger, and its place in the Christian spiritual life. This special episode breaks from our usual story-based episode, to present an interview on a very misunderstood and important topic.Oh! I found out that YouTube has streamed the whole Russian movie of "I am dragon" here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K9yi_DzmNy4Alternatively, you can watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uj1PJS0HjK82020-08-0420 minThe Myth Pilgrim03 Hobbits and Christian Hope Today (Lord of the Rings theme #1)What does Christian hope look like in the era of COVID-19? Journey alongside Sam and Gandalf in the midst of their worldwide calamity. Let the divine hope that permeates J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings nourish you and sustain you.Here are links to two of the scenes mentioned in the episode:"I wish the ring had never come to me": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrOqnZdvI6MSam's speech in the Two Towers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6C8SX0mWP0Excerpt from podcast: "What s...2020-07-2819 minThe Myth Pilgrim02 Jesus, Jedi and the Hero's Journey (Star Wars theme #1)This episode will explore the mythic hero's journey of Luke Skywalker alongside the hero's journey of Jesus Christ. Discover how Jesus redefines the hero's journey once and for allExcerpt from episode: "...despite its simple formula, A New Hope feels somehow fulfilling and resolved. Any storyline based around the hero’s journey tends to feel this way… and the collective wisdom of the great civilisations attest to this. But … what does someone like a Luke Skywalker today have to do with Jesus? Well, since the time of Campbell, many academics have rightly noted that the life of Jesus...2020-07-1416 minThe Myth Pilgrim01 Beauty and the Beast, and the God who breaks our curseHow is Beauty and the Beast also a profound metaphor for human salvation? How can this fairytale transform our relationship with the 'beast' within us?Excerpt from episode: "...Consider that once upon a time in Eden, we too were royal princes and princesses in a Kingdom, just like the prince in the tale. And like that prince, our pride exacted a terrible price upon our humanity - the curse of sin. It would ravage the human heart like a devouring beast, turning brother against brother, tribe against tribe, and most tragically, humanity against God. When fully bred...2020-07-1316 minThe Myth PilgrimTrailer and welcomeA snappy intro as to what to expect this series!2020-06-3002 min