In this episode, Bobby and Khalil are joined by special guest, Fr. Simon Teller, from the rising bluegrass band, The Hillbilly Thomists. The Hillbilly Thomists are a group of Dominican Friars that formed together to spread the word of God and connect with others through string band music that's characterized by its use of un-amplified acoustic instruments, free improvisation, and close, high-pitched harmonies. The guys dive into the band's origin, how it's received, and why these men have chosen to use music as a conduit for faith!
Background on Fr. Simon Teller:
Fr. Simon Teller grew up in Cincinnati, OH as the third of seven children. His family attends St. Gertrude Parish, where he first encountered the Dominican Order. Fr. Simon entered the order after graduating from the University of Dallas with a degree in English. “I was attracted to the Order by the friars’ life of study, brotherhood, prayer, and preaching, and by the joy that the friars shared in living out their vocation."
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:15 Fr. Simon joins the podcast!
03:20 Who are the Hillbilly Thomists?
09:05 How do you fit in touring as priests?
10:55 Where did the name Hillbilly Thomists come from?
18:38 What about country/bluegrass music that lends itself to the Catholic faith?
21:30 We have to break into the culture!
26:10 How are you received at the different venues you play at?
29:10 Reaching the younger generation
33:20 Preaching as a Dominican Friar
37:30 How do you feel St. Thomas Aquinas can be relevant to people today?
49:18 Have you ever played the "Devil went down to Georgia?"
55:00 Where can you find the Hillbilly Thomists online?
56:30 Closing Prayer