For those of you among the uninitiated, Father Richard Rohr is a Franciscan Friar and ecumenical teacher. He is a prolific writer and I think would he proudly call himself a “modern mystic.” So, what does all that mean and why am I introducing him?
First, for my Protestant friends, of which I am one, Rohr is a Franciscan Friar, meaning that he is a Catholic Priest, sometimes called “Brother,” in the Franciscan Order. Franciscans are easy to spot because they dress like Ye Olde Friar Tuck for you Robin Hood fans out there. Sandals and course cassock when in their “official” cleric garb. They are students of Saint Francis of Assisi, so they interact with all things natural, appreciating the created world and its creatures. They take a vow of poverty and relate to the world in a very earthly existence. Thus, Friar Tuck.
Second, as for Rohr, he is also very active in the ecumenical movement, which means that he studies, preaches, and argues for ideas from all religious traditions, not just his own Catholic tradition. He likes to dialogue where the World’s religions meet at common points and learn from each other rather than argue about their differences.
Third, Rohr is a mystic. Try not to be troubled by that word, it is a paradox in our current culture, but for now, let’s just say that means that Rohr is more open to things unseen. This is one Catholic that can get down with the Holy Spirit and enjoys both doxology and lived experience.
For these reasons, Rohr is one of my favorite modern theologians and writers. His books are thought-provoking and meaningful. There is a spirit of peace to them unlike many current mass-marketed authors. So, many of his books will be reviewed in this blog and I encourage you to pick up one and see if you have a taste for Rohr’s brand of open Catholicism.
