In this episode of Peaceable and Kind, host Derek Vreeland sits down with Alex Sosler for a thought-provoking discussion on the Advent season, spiritual formation, and the role of Christian community in shaping a meaningful faith journey. Alex shares his personal story, from his beginnings in a nominally Catholic environment and time in the Southern Baptist tradition to his embrace of Anglicanism and the profound influence of liturgy and beauty in his spiritual growth.

The conversation delves into the power of Advent as a season of waiting and reflection, exploring how spiritual practices like the daily office lectionary can deepen one’s Bible reading experience. Alex discusses the transcendentals of truth, goodness, beauty, and community, highlighting how these concepts foster a balanced and fulfilling spiritual life. Together, they examine ideas like eudaimonia (human flourishing) and shalom (peace), connecting them to Jesus’ teachings on the good life and the importance of virtue, character, and habit formation in growing towards Christlikeness. This episode encourages listeners to cultivate a holistic approach to faith, rooted in grace and the transformative power of community.

Books mentioned in this episode:

Daily Office Lectionary by Derek Vreeland

A Short Guide to Spiritual Formation: Finding Life in Truth, Goodness, Beauty, and Community by Alex Sosler

Learning to Love: Christian Higher Education as Pilgrimage by Alex Sosler

The Artistic Vision: Cultivating a Sacramental Imagination for Artistic Practice by Alex Sosler

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