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In this re-podcast of an earlier conversation with Christine, David Cassian Cole shares his journey into Celtic spirituality, detailing his early experiences and the accidental yet transformative encounters that shaped his spiritual path. He discusses the founding of Waymark Ministries, which focuses on sharing insights from Celtic Christianity and mysticism. The conversation also delves into the significance of Celtic Advent, its unique structure which includes three sets of 40 days, and the reception of Cassian's book on the subject. Additionally, the role of women in Celtic leadership is highlighted, along with practical advice for celebrating Celtic Advent amidst the busyness of the season.

Takeaways

• David's journey into Celtic spirituality began with a mystical experience.
• Celtic Christianity emphasizes a unique rhythm of three sets of 40 days.
• Celtic Advent offers a sacred space before the commercial rush of Christmas.
• The book 'Celtic Advent' has been well received and is popular among readers.
• Celtic Christianity had a strong emphasis on women in leadership and connection with nature.
• Rather than being church-based, Celtic Christianity developed in the context of monastic life.
• Celtic Christians viewed the coming of Christ as a repetitive event in life.
• Intentionality is key in celebrating Advent amidst busyness.

​David Cassian Cole is the Founder and Executive Director of Waymark Ministries; he is an international Spiritual Teacher and Retreat Leader; he has lectured in Christian & Bible Colleges; has appeared in numerous television programs; is an award winning author of 8 books, including 'Celtic Advent', as well as being part of collaborative published writings; and was Deputy Guardian of The Community of Aidan & Hilda, a Celtic-inspired New Monastic Order that he was a member of for 20 years.

He has been a full time Church Minister and Teaching Pastor in different churches and is qualified in 'Spiritual Care' (holistic care and pastoral counselling); as well as being a certified Reiki practitioner; he holds a Masters' degree in 'Christian Spirituality', specializing in the Christian mystics, and writing his thesis on how historic Celtic Christianity can inform New Monastic ideas of Discipleship.

More about David Cassian's work can be found at Waymark Ministries

Purchase a copy of Christine Sines book Celtic Advent: Following An Unfamiliar Path

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This week we are repodcasting Christine's interview with Celtic-inspired artist Mary Fleeson.

Christine Sine interviewed Mary Fleeson, an artist inspired by Celtic spirituality and the natural beauty of Lindisfarne. Mary shared her artistic journey, the influence of ancient manuscripts, and how her faith shapes her work. The discussion also explored the meditative process of creating art, the evolution of materials used in her craft, and the inspiration she draws from music and nature. Mary highlighted her current projects and aspirations, emphasizing the importance of making art accessible and meaningful.

Takeaways

• Mary's artistic journey began with a fascination for Celtic knotwork.
• The beauty of Lindisfarne deeply influences Mary's artwork.
• Mary's art aims to draw viewers into prayer and meditation.
• The process of creating art is meditative and requires focus.
• Ancient manuscripts like the Book of Kells inspire Mary's style.
• Music and poetry significantly influence Mary's artwork.
• Mary's current projects include prayer spaces and new art pieces.
  
  Mary Fleeson has lived on Holy Island, just off the coast of Northumberland, UK since 1997. She studied textiles at college then gained an honours degree in Three-Dimensional Design in 1992. About her work Mary thinks that her style originates from doodling in lessons at school (!) combined with opportunities during her education to experiment with many different types of media and techniques.
  
  Together with her Christian faith, living on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne and being surrounded by its natural beauty and visible history, is the greatest inspiration for Mary's work; a feeling of being part of a rich cycle of life which began in pre-history and encompasses extremes of peace and violence, poverty and prosperity. She also studies early manuscripts and ancient calligraphy from around the world to gain an insight into how calligraphy and illumination have enhanced works, both religious and secular, throughout the ages.
  
  Over the last 25 years Mary has created over 120 pieces of artwork that sell as prints and greeting cards and has written and designed over 75 books including devotional, prayer, poetry and colouring books. Alongside creating illuminated art and writing Mary creates meditational weaving made from found scraps and yarn and enjoys teaching people how to create celtic knots.

Mary Fleeson and her work can be found on the Lindisfarne Scriptorium facebook page and website.

Find out more about Christine Sine on
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Jeff Johnson, a musician known for his Celtic-influenced music, shares his journey in music and how he was drawn to the Celtic Christian expression. He talks about his collaborations with other artists, including Phil Keaggy, and their album 'Spinning on a Cosmic Dime'. Jeff also reflects on the importance of wonder and the need to define oneself beyond creative achievements.

Jeff Johnson’s music spans forty years of over fifty solo and collaborative releases featuring Progressive/Rock, Jazz/New Age, Contemporary Celtic and Contemplative Worship stylizations. He has collaborated with such diverse artists as Irish flutist, Brian Dunning, Jazz bassist, David Friesen, Classical vocalist, Janet Marie Chvatal and guitar virtuoso, Phil Keaggy. Most of his recordings – all self-produced and recorded – have been released on his own Ark Records/ArkMusic label which he began in 1977. He regularly leads a contemplative worship service featuring readings from the Psalms, music and silent prayer called the Selah Service at churches and retreats. He lives on Camano Island in the Pacific Northwest with his wife, Susie.

Jeff's website is: https://www.arkmusic.com

Find out more about Christine Sine on
Walking In Wonder on Substack
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