In this episode of Rhythms of Faith, Kim and JJ welcome Father Paul Coleman and Dr. Kathy Cummings. They discuss their new course on global Catholicism developed through the Institute for Advanced Studies Teaching Lab Fellows program. The course covers a variety of perspectives on Catholicism, including historical and cultural influences, student responses, and the challenges and rewards of collaborative teaching. The conversation delves into the importance of examining Catholicism through different lenses, the impact of immigration on faith practices in the U.S., and the dynamics of synodality in the Catholic Church. They also touch on the significance of Pope Francis's teachings, particularly his autobiography, and how global and local traditions shape the Catholic experience.

00:00 Introduction to Rhythms of Faith

00:25 Course Development and Initial Experiences

01:15 Exploring Global Catholicism

01:45 Field Trip to Chicago's Ethnic Parishes

03:40 Teaching Challenges and Student Engagement

07:03 Importance of Teaching Global Catholicism

10:07 Cultural Integration in Catholicism

17:02 Exploring the Synod Experience

18:34 Historical Context and Church Hierarchy

19:56 Pope Francis and the Synod's Impact

25:13 Liturgical Gifts and Cultural Differences

28:48 Fun and Reflective Closing

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In this episode of Rhythms of Faith, Dr. Jerry Blackstone, currently the conducting professor at the University of Notre Dame, shares his journey from a rural upbringing in Kansas to an accomplished career in conducting. Dr. Blackstone discusses his role at Notre Dame, working with graduate students in choral conducting, and reflects on his teaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of imagination and communication in music. He also touches upon the role of technology in music education, the joys and challenges of conducting, and the spiritual dimensions of making music both in concert halls and churches. The episode delves into how his faith shapes his musical endeavors, his experiences with iconic pieces like Brahms' Requiem, and the deep bonds formed through communal music-making.

00:00 Introduction to Rhythms of Faith

00:26 Dr. Jerry Blackstone's Role at Notre Dame

01:11 Adjusting to Notre Dame

02:06 Early Life and Musical Beginnings

04:49 Pursuing Conducting

06:56 Teaching Conducting at Notre Dame

07:28 The Joys and Challenges of Teaching Conducting

09:03 The Importance of Imagination in Conducting

12:52 Technological Shifts in Music Education

14:49 Active Listening and Guided Listening

18:04 The Communal Experience of Music

20:27 A Heartwarming Story from Texas

21:28 The Essence of Making Music in Different Venues

23:47 Teaching Sacred vs. Secular Music

25:51 The Spiritual Connection in Music

28:14 Reflecting on Musical Pieces and Performances

32:23 Memorable Conducting Experiences

36:37 A Fun and Personal Finale

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In this episode of Rhythms of Faith, the hosts and guests dive deep into the personal experiences and formative influences of liturgical musicians. The episode covers their favorite liturgical songs, significant mentors in their faith journeys, and the integration of sacred and secular music. The hosts reflect on how music shapes their spirituality and the importance of new liturgical compositions for contemporary worship. The conversation also explores the role of prayer, the connection between creativity and divine inspiration, and the holistic nature of communal and individual prayer practices. The episode concludes with personal insights on spiritual growth and the importance of deep listening and presence in one's spiritual life.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:43 Exploring Liturgical Music

03:31 Influential Figures in Faith and Music

07:01 Sacred vs. Secular Music

10:44 The Essence of Liturgical Music

12:14 The Intersection of Music and Visual Arts

14:25 The Importance of New Liturgical Music

17:15 Creative Process and Prayer

26:20 Final Thoughts and Spiritual Advice

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