The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.

Writer Kathleen Norris on her disabled sister’s inspiring life

Benedictine monks

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51 min·March 3, 2026

About this Episode

New York Times bestselling writer, Kathleen Norris, joins host James Martin, S.J., on “The Spiritual Life” podcast to share her experience with Benedictine monks, which formed the basis of her beloved book "The Cloister Walk," and to introduce her new book, "Rebecca Sue," a memoir about her younger sister who had a developmental disability. Kathleen retrieves spiritual wisdom from the ancient desert fathers and mothers on dealing with perennial psychological challenges, including jealousy, boredom, and bad thoughts. Timecodes: 0:00 Bad thoughts, not sin, was the focus in Early Christianity 1:10 The “Kathleen Norris-effect” 4:37 Getting to know the desert fathers and mothers ...

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The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.

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Writer Kathleen Norris on her disabled sister’s inspiring life — The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J. — Selah