Show Notes
The "dark ages" really get a bad wrap, if you ask us. The phrase tends to make you think of something from a Monty Python skit: a toothless peasants, constant famine, and a wildly corrupt and inept church. And while every bit of fiction has some truth to it, there's one big problem to that narrative. Anselm was an absolute BALLER. Listen as Thomas leads the lads through the story of Anselm of Canterbury (Handsome Anselm is what Taylor calls him), Doctor of the medieval churc...
More from Church History for Chumps
We've had a spook-tastic time exploring the history of the church's relationship with ghosts, spirits, and apparitions. But what about a thoroughly documented vision of the afterlife? This week we'll close out our mini-series on a 13th century source detailing a vivid display of a "wild hunt," where the souls of the damned and tormented are displayed before the very eyes of a priest. Or so they say? Support the show Join our Discord! Support the Show!
Last week, in true spooky fashion, we talked about how the early church dealt with the topic of the ghostly ghouls. This week, we'll go forward in time and consider the ways of our medieval brothers, particularly Saint Bede and Anselm. Both have interesting key writings that engage with the topics of talking to the dead, receiving messages from the dead, or the special insights that the dying can receive from the other side. It's all very interesting. Or at least we think so...
It's a phenomenon that's as old as time itself. Just about any culture you can think of has some example of ghostly creatures wandering the earth. But what did the early church think? Were they 'superstitious' by modern standards? Or maybe just a little stitious? Join us as we discuss Augustine and Gregory the Great and their unique views on the ghouls of history. Support the show Join our Discord! Support the Show!
'Evangelicals' is one of those terms that the news loves yet doesn't seem to understand. It's a strange word in Christian circles. It doesn't connect neatly to one tradition or denomination. It's often lumped in with voting blocs, and usually it's a bad word. Or a really, really good word. Depending on who you're talking to. So let's get down to the bottom of this, once and for all. What is an evangelical? Where did they come from? Are they good? Are they safe for your skin? Are t...
The 12th century was kind of a strange time. While knights and tough guys all across Europe were fighting crusades, everyday people seemed to be starting their own movements. Most of them were heretical. In the fog of heresy however a new group arose. Led by a lay preacher with a penchant for poverty and a love for the lingua franca, Peter Waldo launched the Waldensians. These proto-reformers would spend much of their lifespan in hiding, enduring religious wars, inquisitions, and ...