Robert Freese converted to Catholicism in 2020 after 20 years of practicing and eventually teaching Vipassana meditation. He and his wife Gosia are volunteers in the Faustinium, the lay order of Saint Faustina who initiated the devotion to Divine Mercy.
In this conversation, Robert shares his profound journey from a secular upbringing in Texas to exploring Buddhism and eventually returning to Catholicism. He discusses the influence of his family background, the transformative power of meditation, and the importance of community in spiritual practices. Robert reflects on his experiences with Vipassana meditation, the challenges of balancing spiritual commitments with worldly responsibilities, and the ongoing quest for self-discovery and meaning in life. In this conversation, Robert Freese shares his profound journey of faith, detailing his experiences of encountering Jesus during meditation, the integration of his Buddhist practices with Catholicism, and the transformative power of suffering and grace. He reflects on the significance of communion, confession, and the importance of bringing one’s suffering to God, emphasising the deep connection between personal experiences and spiritual growth.
Chapters
00:00 Journey of Spiritual Exploration
10:11 The Shift to Buddhism
19:57 Deepening the Practice
29:49 Teaching and Transformation
39:57 Navigating Challenges in Spiritual Life
49:51 Encountering Jesus in Meditation
54:00 The Cross and Personal Suffering
58:08 Navigating Faith and Personal Crisis
01:01:22 The Journey to Catholicism
01:07:20 Integrating Buddhism and Catholicism
01:14:14 Desire, Suffering, and Spiritual Growth
01:20:50 The Role of Confession and Grace
