Turning to the Mystics with James Finley
Center for Action and ContemplationTurning to the Mystics is a podcast for people searching for something more meaningful, intimate and richly present in the divine gift of their lives. James Finley, clinical psychologist and Living School faculty, offers a modern take on the historical contemplative practices of Christian mystics like Teresa of Avila, Thomas Merton, John of the Cross among others. Leaning into their experiences ca... more
| Publishes | Weekly | Episodes | 184 | Founded | 7 years ago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Listeners | Categories | ChristianityReligion & SpiritualitySpirituality | |||
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In this first dialogue session, Jim and Kirsten will focus on two of Emily's poems, There's a certain Slant of light, and Tell all the truth but tell it slant, introducing the mystical way of seeing into which Emily can draw us.
Resources:
• The ... more
This is the first session which focuses on Emily Dickinson. In the tenor of the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, James Finley reads passages from Emily's poetry, reflects on core themes, and finishes with a meditative practice.
Resources:
• Th... more
Welcome to Season 14 of Turning to the Mystics.
This season we are turning to the poetry of Emily Dickinson for spiritual guidance. In today's episode, James Finley and Kirsten Oates cover the life and person of Emily and discuss how we can work wit... more
Season 14 of Turning to the Mystics will continue with our next mystic, poet Emily Dickinson
Our journey begins on September 28, 2026.
Resources:
The books Jim will be referencing this season are:
• The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson, Edited... more
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Reviews
- Akron Proud
The love and depth that James Finley adds to these sessions on the mystics moves me to tears at times. The beauty of the teachings that has endured over the centuries is so impressive. And that they have never been forgotten. A hometown Ohio native who has overcome layers of trauma and been able to show others like me a way forward brings unparalleled gratitude. Well done and best to all of you at CAC.
Apple Podcasts5Akron follower
United States2 months ago - This is it for me
This is my favorite podcast, and indeed, the only one I need. I listen to the episodes over and over, and continue to learn from them each time. Thank you Uncle Jim for being my teacher. Thank you to Kirsten and all the CAC people who make this possible. It is truly the Good News. 💞
Apple Podcasts5Annmarie BooUnited States5 months ago - Thank you James and Kirsten
I have stumbled across this podcast and am praising God. I have a copy of The Cloud of Unknowing . I think I bought it when I was 25. I’m now 68. After being baptised in The Holy Spirit a few years ago I turned to the book again and it was as if the presence of God shone out of the words. This dialogue has added so much to my appreciation of the text.
Apple Podcasts5Beatrix272
United Kingdom5 months ago - deep gratitude
There are no words that can fully express and describe the deep gratitude and love that I feel in my heart for Returning to the Mystics podcast I hope you can feel the loving appreciation I am sending from my heart to your hearts.
Apple Podcasts5Find the JoyUnited States5 months ago - Life saving grace
Of all the many thousands of podcasts available - this is THE ONE I cannot miss! Thank you James and Kirsten! ❤️❤️❤️ The coverage of the various mystics is beautiful, deep AND accessible! Your wisdom and the wisdom of these mystics have been a true gift during these difficult times. You both have such big hearts! Again, deepest thanks.
Apple Podcasts5RosiePose KoUnited States5 months ago
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Apple Podcasts | #32 | United States/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #46 | United States/Religion & Spirituality |
Apple Podcasts | #10 | United Kingdom/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #17 | United Kingdom/Religion & Spirituality |
Apple Podcasts | #45 |  Canada/Religion & Spirituality/Christianity |
Apple Podcasts | #69 | Canada/Religion & Spirituality |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Turning to the Mystics
What is Turning to the Mystics about and what kind of topics does it cover?
Two contemplative hosts explore Christian mysticism through conversations with and about historical figures like Thérèse of Lisieux, Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross, and Brother Lawrence. Episodes blend personal storytelling, practical spirituality, and intimate dialogue to translate dense mystical concepts—such as the “little way,” presence of God in daily life, and how suffering can become love—into accessible guidance for living with greater presence, compassion, and inner peace. The show consistently highlights humility, ordinary life as a path to union with the divine, and the balance between contemplative practice and everyday action, often featuring guest teachers and collaborative reflections from a center known for contemplative... more
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Which podcasts are similar to Turning to the Mystics?
These podcasts share a similar audience with Turning to the Mystics:
1. Everything Belongs: Living the Teachings of Richard Rohr Forward
2. Learning How to See with Brian McLaren
3. The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.
4. Sounds True: Insights at the Edge
5. Homebrewed Christianity
How many episodes of Turning to the Mystics are there?
Turning to the Mystics launched 7 years ago and published 184 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.
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What guests have appeared on Turning to the Mystics?
Recent guests on Turning to the Mystics include:
1. Richard Rohr
2. Carmen Acevedo Butcher
3. Gregory Sadler
4. Malcolm Guite
5. Bernard McGinn
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