“The Way of the Pilgrim” | Season 9 Wrap-Up of “Turning to the Mystics”

Where has longing led you? Season 9 of “Turning to the Mystics” invited podcast listeners to journey to the heart of classic Russian mystical text, “The Way of the Pilgrim.” 

Whether you’re a seasoned seeker or new to the path, this season offered inspiration for the many encounters we experience as we walk towards greater wisdom. Each season of “Turning to the Mystics” offers an in-depth look at a mystical figure, author, or text that can lead us to a deeper understanding of our spiritual lives. 

A “Turning to the Mystics” Listener Story  

We are always touched to hear from our listeners, who offer insights about applying contemplative wisdom to their own journey. While season 9 was airing, we received a message from a CAC community member, Nancy, who spoke so clearly about her own journey towards greater wisdom: 

“I’ve been blessed to have discovered James Finley. I am under a personal reconstruction. I love and laugh at hearing the construction work discussed in the episodes of ‘Turning to the Mystics,’ it’s very metaphoric. I have never in my life heard someone speak to my pain, joy, grief, trauma, and my potential all at the same time. My life is shifting and now I lean towards the Light without sinking way to heavy baggage!” 

She continues, “Thank you James Finley and Kirsten Oates for sharing your gifts with us. Your laughter together is intoxicating. I truly know with all my heart that you have helped save my life. As I live in the now, while slowly moving forward, I have a soul full of healing wounds that I am so appreciative of — these healing wounds will always be my greatest teachers. I listen to ‘Turning to The Mystics’ every day.” 

Have you been impacted by “Turning to the Mystics”? We would love to hear from you! You can share your comments and stories here. 

Highlights from “Turning to the Mystics” Season 9 

Each episode of this season turns to the anonymous mystical text, “The Way of a Pilgrim” for spiritual guidance, while also exploring the practice of the Jesus Prayer. 

• Turning to The Way of a Pilgrim: Discover the Russian Eastern Orthodox context of the 19th century. 
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 1: James Finley discusses the essence of this beloved text. 
• Dialogue 1 — The Journey Begins: This dialogue session explores sections of the first chapter of “The Way of the Pilgrim.” 
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 2: Reflect on the qualitative essence of the spirit of this 19th century mystical text. 
• Dialogue 2 — The Teacher Arrives: This second dialogue session covers more wisdom from “The Way of the Pilgrim.” 
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 3: Turn to the ancient practice of Lectio Divina and a meditative practice. 
• Dialogue 3 — The Pilgrim Learns to Pray: Discover the role longing plays in your life, inspired by the pilgrim’s path. 
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 4: Learn more about the Jesus Prayer, guided by James and Kristen. 
• Dialogue 4 — The Prayer Takes Hold: This dialogue session unpacks the importance of tradition in Christianity and all world religions.  
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 5: Explore how God is eternally reaching out to touch us and awaken our consciousness. 
• Dialogue 5 — The Realm of the Heart: No matter where we are on this path, we can always pray at any time. 
• “The Way of a Pilgrim” — Session 6: This session unpacks more text from “The Way of a Pilgrim.” 
• Dialogue 6 — The Prayer in Ordinary Life: Follow the pilgrim in the arc of transformation. 
• A Coaching Session on “The Way of a Pilgrim”: In this special episode, turn to the Jesus Prayer for guidance on your own spiritual path. 
• A Way of a Pilgrim — Listener Questions: Listeners share questions and personal stories of pilgrimage. 

Transcripts are available for each episode. 

On every season of “Turning to the Mystics,” we embark on in-depth explorations of the teachings of one unique mystic and new episodes are coming soon! 

We hope you’ll subscribe on your favorite podcast player or explore our “Turning to the Mystics” playlist on YouTube.