Paul stated "Catholicism" as his most important value and to be honest that threw me for a loop at first. It seemed like such a specific thing to pick as a value, that I wondered if he understood the point of my question. His thoughtful approach and explanation quickly allayed those concerns but I then assumed this would be a very closed minded discussion. This might be one of those where it even gets a little combative because the other person is so rooted in their beliefs. I'm not proud of it, but I guess I have a subconscious bias that kicks in when I hear someone say Catholicism is the most important thing in their life. Paul's exact words were that he is "dedicated to living the simplicity and humility of life, gospel and prayer all rooted in the Secular Franciscan Tradition." I hadn't heard of the Secular Franciscan Tradition before but it all sounded very rigid.

But sometimes it is a beautiful thing to be wrong. Paul is definitely a firm believer in the Catholic faith and the gospel does guide his life, but there is very little rigidity to it at all. He believes "faith" is an evolutionary process, ever changing and growing. He believes for you to have true faith it has to be tested and questioned. Most important of all, he believes his duty as a man of faith is to read the gospel and try to understand the underlying essence of what the words are really trying to teach us. In today's world that view is almost radical or blasphemous, but Paul believes God is more than capable (and encouraging) of us taking this approach. 

Once someone gives me permission to question and test their beliefs I believe the concept of this show really shines. The combination of someone who has thoughtful, deep rooted beliefs and an open and curious mind is magical. So Paul and I spent much of this conversation going back forth trying to make sense of Catholicism, humanity, and the world we live in. We discussed the role of authenticity in religious practice, the limits (if any) of God, free will, the purpose of human suffering, and many other really important topics. It will never cease to amaze me how much we can learn when we get out of our own way and have a genuine, open conversation with someone.