Pádraig Ó Tuama on poetry, conflict resolution, and the Stations of the Cross

The poet and theologian, Pádraig Ó Tuama, joins James Martin, S.J., on “The Spiritual Life” podcast to talk about how poetry and the Taizé community became a lifeline for Pádraig after he was subjected to multiple exorcisms, attempting to cast out his homosexuality as a form of conversion therapy.

Pádraig is the host of On Being’s podcast, “Poetry Unbound,” and has published volumes of poetry, essays, a memoir and has written on theological topics. His books include:

 Being Here: Prayers for Curiosity, Justice, and Love

Kitchen Hymns

Timecodes:

0:00 What do you really want?

1:25 The conversion therapies inflicted upon Pádraig Ó Tuama

7:00 Pádraig’s younger years among the Catholic charismatic movement

11:24 How Pádraig accepted his homosexuality and renewed his faith

17:40 Coming out as a poet and being haunted by Emily Dickenson 

25:44 Pádraig’s understanding of prayer

32:25 Practicing the Stations of the Cross 

37:45 Required spiritual practices for reconciliation

43:20 How to deal with criticism

51:40 Audience Question: What practices can I bring from retreats into my daily life?

Read Fr. Jim's article reflecting on poetry and prayer.

Do you have a spiritual question for Fr. Jim? You can write to us at: [email protected]

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