In this engaging episode of Rhythms of Faith, Dr. Blake Leyerle, a professor of Early Christianity at the University of Notre Dame, dives into the social and cultural history of early Christianity. Dr. Leyerle shares her unique approach, focusing not on the renowned figures of the time but on the everyday lives of ordinary people. The conversation covers everything from Dr. Leyerle's detective-like historical research process, the creative interpretation of scant ancient data, to the importance of emotion in ethical formation as seen through the sermons and personality of John Chrysostom, an influential early church figure. She also touches on the role of music, the intersections of home and liturgical spaces, and the parallels between ancient and modern-day Christian practices. Finally, Dr. Leyerle reflects on the misconceptions about early Christianity and discusses her recent work, 'Christians at Home’, which explores the integration of religious practices into domestic spaces.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:26 Exploring Early Christianity

02:15 The Creative Process of Historical Research

03:50 Collaboration and Material Culture

06:14 John Chrysostom: Life and Works

14:53 Chrysostom's Approach to Emotions and Ethics

21:23 Music in Early Christianity

23:18 The Role of Psalms in Christian Practice

23:56 Christianizing Daily Life Through Song

24:49 Domestic Religion: Creating Sacred Spaces at Home

27:16 The Three Sacred Objects in Christian Homes

29:25 The Bed: A Place of Prayer and Reflection

30:53 The Chest: Almsgiving and Moral Formation

32:28 The Table: Hospitality and Scriptural Discussion

33:02 Writing During the Pandemic: Inspiration and Challenges

33:50 Empowering Lay Christians: Overcoming Inertia

37:41 Debunking Myths About Early Christianity

39:49 Fun Question: If You Were an Animal...

41:49 Conclusion and Farewell

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