Episode #9 is a conversation between Judy Valente, a devout Roman Catholic and myself, a devout Christian Scientist, on the subject of monasticism.
Judy’s experience as a contributor for PBS’s Religion and Ethics NewsWeekly and commentator for Chicago and National Public Radio, as well as her personal quest for spiritual meaning, continue to draw her simultaneously deeper into the heart of humanity and into the private chambers of her own heart. 
One of my teachers at seminary was not at all happy with my own efforts to claim the unity of doing good for humanity and taking time for prayer and contemplation. Judy and I discuss the current tension between what’s known as the “contemplative life” and the “active life.” In every day terms, that means, “Is praying and contemplating God a privilege for the wealthy that keeps them from actually doing something for those less fortunate?”
Both of us draw on our faith traditions to express the power and beauty of what Judy thinks of as monastic practices, and what I think of as prayer. And from those experiences, we’re both convinced that these quiet, private moments of communion with God do contribute to the blessings for humanity.
Tell us what you think about this conversation, here on Spirituality and Christianity.com. We think a better understanding of the monastic life — or prayer life — would benefit not only those who take up the practice, but also the whole world. Click on “Comments” below to contribute to the conversation.
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#1 by sam_iam on May 18th, 2008 - 12:57 am
The discussion between Judy Valente and Shirley Paulson was great. Shirley’s podcasts are conversations, discussions. They identify shared values among people of different faiths.
What a refreshing atmosphere for intelligent people of faith to come together and not try to convert the other, or insist one is superior to the other. To come together with respect and love, and a willingness to listen with one’s heart is a tremendous achievement.
Thank you Shirley, and to your guests too.
#2 by Kim C Korinek on May 21st, 2008 - 8:29 pm
Thank you for this insightful podcast! What was most helpful was to understand that the role of the contemplative life is “to add to the soul of the world” and that to nourish oneself is the best way to nourish the world.
I just got on you site and am looking forward to listening to more of your programs.