Tag Archives: religion

Events, Search For Meaning

THE TRUTH AT THE HEART OF THE LIE: How the Catholic Church lost its soul 

James Carroll‘s deeply personal exploration of what has broken the modern Catholic Church is chronicled in The Truth At The Heart Of The Lie, the most recent in his canon of books critiquing the blessings and limitations of Catholic Christianity.

A former priest himself, Carroll peers into the shadows of deceit and corruption that have shaken his belief system, unearthing the awful truth hidden in the human failings, sins and betrayals of the Church’s hierarchy of bishops and priests. Carroll contends that the Catholic Church and its clergy are at a critical tipping point. Can it and they yet be saved? 

Recorded 10/5/2021

James Carroll – Has The Catholic Church Lost Its Soul? 1
James Carroll: Has The Catholic Church Lost Its Soul? 2

What are your personal views on the present Catholic Church; has it failed its followers and if so, how?

Can the Catholic Church ever command respect and authority after the slew of international scandals – is it too late to redeem itself? 

James Carroll is author of 21 books, both fiction and non-fiction.  His essays and articles have appeared in The New Yorker, Daedalus, The Daily Beast and other publications. He wrote a Boston Globe op-ed column for 23 years. 

Cambridge Forum provides free and open discussions about the pertinent issues and ideas confronting us, in the world today.

Events, Podcasts, Search For Meaning

HOW GOD WORKS: THE SCIENCE BEHIND THE BENEFITS OF RELIGION

Did you know that people who engage in spiritual practices tend to live longer, happier lives?  What’s more you don’t have to be “religious” to avail yourself of the multiple benefits – many of these rituals work on the mind regardless of belief.

Psychologist David DeSteno discusses some fascinating findings from his latest book How God Works.

Science shows that by taking part in certain religious practices and rituals, regardless of faith – or lack thereof – we improve our emotional and physical wellbeing.

Consider that: 

  • Prayers of gratitude make people more honest and generous, creating a cycle of paying it forward.
  • Buddhist meditation reduces hostility and increases compassion
  • The Jewish practice of sitting shiva reduces the pain of grief
  • The Christian ritual of saying grace before meals increases empathy
  • Shinto rituals around childbirth enhance bonding for mothers and reduce the incidence of postpartum depression

Recorded 9/7/2021

Science Behind Religion 1
Science Behind Religion 2

David DeSteno is a psychologist at Northeastern University where he studies the mind’s foundation for moral behavior.

Cambridge Forum provides free and open discussions about the pertinent issues and ideas confronting us, in the world today.