Kresta in the Afternoon – September 26, 2023 – Hour 2

Author: Bryant Schoenle Published on: September 26, 2023 Published in: Al Kresta

Guest Host Marcus Peter and Rick Clements discuss evangelzing the “Lapsed Atheists” and Austin Freeman dives into the theology of JRR Tolkien.

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Evangelizing the “Lapsed Atheists”

Shortly after the turn of the century, a new style of Atheism started to gain popularity. Dubbed the “New Atheism” and championed by figures like Richard Dawkins and Sam Harris, this position asserted that religion was actually harmful to society and was not to be merely tolerated – it should be eradicated. But this New Atheism cannot answer the basic questions about why we are here. We talk more with Dr. Rick Clements.

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Evangelizing “Lapsed Atheists”

Rick’s website

Rick Clements writes and speaks about topics related to the Catholic faith, spirituality, personal growth, parenting, and culture. He is the author of two books: The Meaning of the World Is Love: Selected Texts from Hans Urs von Balthasar with Commentary and The Book of Love: Brief Meditations. Rick has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Purdue University and a certificate in lay ecclesial ministry from the Catholic Diocese of Gary. He is a former college professor, having taught psychology at Ball State University, Valparaiso University, and Indiana University Northwest. When he's not busy writing or giving presentations, Rick enjoys traveling, reading, music, and cooking.

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Middle-Earth Illustrates Tolkien’s Theology

JRR Tolkien fans observe September 22 as “Hobbit Day,” the day that Bilbo and Frodo Baggins celebrate their birthdays. Tolkien was a devout Catholic, and his theology is expressed throughout the world of Middle-Earth. We talk more about it with Austin Freeman.