A Lord of the Rings Spiritual Retreat Archives

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The Eucharistic Heart of Tolkien – A “Lord of the Rings” Spiritual Retreat with Fr. Timothy Gallagher

Fr. Timothy Gallagher and Kris McGregor look into the profound connection between J.R.R. Tolkien’s literary masterpiece, “The Lord of the Rings,” and his deep Catholic faith. Fr. Gallagher’s insightful exploration of J.R.R. Tolkien’s faith and its reflection in “The Lord of the Rings” unveils the depth and richness of this literary masterpiece.

At the turn of the century, “The Lord of the Rings” emerged as the people’s choice for the book of the century in multiple polls. Tolkien’s primary motivation, as expressed in the book’s forward, was to craft a tale that would captivate, amuse, delight, and deeply move its readers. Father Gallagher emphasizes that, first and foremost, the allure of the book lies in its literary excellence.

What sets “The Lord of the Rings” apart is Tolkien’s deep Catholic faith, rooted in the courageous conversion of his mother, Mabel. A convert who faced rejection and poverty, Mabel’s steadfast commitment to Catholicism profoundly influenced his worldview. Fr. Gallagher also highlights the sacrificial nature of Mabel’s faith, a theme that echoes in the trials of characters within the epic. Tolkien sees his mother’s sufferings as a testament to her martyrdom for the faith.

Fr. Gallagher also shares Tolkien’s acknowledgment of the silent appeal of the tabernacle, a call that continually drew him back to the Blessed Sacrament throughout his life. Tolkien’s daily communion and his reflection on Christ’s words to Peter, “Feed My Sheep,” further emphasize the Eucharistic center of his faith.

142 To Robert Murray, SJ. 2 December 1953 76 Sandfield Road, Headington, Oxford

“I think I know exactly what you mean by the order of Grace; and of course by your references to Our Lady, upon which all my own small perception of beauty both in majesty and simplicity is founded. The Lord of the Rings is of course a fundamentally religious and Catholic work; unconsciously so at first, but consciously in the revision. That is why I have not put in, or have cut out, practically all references to anything like ‘religion’, to cults or practices, in the imaginary world. For the religious element is absorbed into the story and the symbolism.”

Father Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V., was ordained in 1979 as a member of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a religious community dedicated to retreats and spiritual formation according to the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. Fr. Gallagher is featured on the EWTN series “Living the Discerning Life: The Spiritual Teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola”.

For more information on how to obtain copies of Fr. Gallaghers’s various books and audio which are available for purchase, please visit his website: frtimothygallagher.org

For the other episodes in this series check out Fr. Timothy Gallagher’s “Discerning Hearts” page

00:00 – 02:12: Introduction and Greeting
Father Gallagher and Chris exchange greetings and introduce the topic of discussing J.R.R. Tolkien’s work.
02:12 – 06:12: Importance of “The Lord of the Rings”
Father Gallagher discusses the popularity of “The Lord of the Rings” and its recognition as a book of the century in various polls. Tolkien’s primary motive for writing the book is explored.
06:12 – 09:55: Tolkien’s Catholic Faith
The discussion focuses on Tolkien’s profound Catholic faith, influenced by his mother’s conversion and the sacrifices she made for her faith.
09:55 – 18:22: Letters Revealing Tolkien’s Faith
Father Gallagher shares excerpts from Tolkien’s letters, highlighting the significance of the Blessed Sacrament in his life and the influence of his mother and a priest, Father Francis Morgan.
18:22 – 25:35: The Eucharistic Heart of Tolkien
Tolkien’s commitment to daily communion and reflections on Christ’s words to Peter are discussed. The impact of the Blessed Sacrament and its role in Tolkien’s life are emphasized.
25:35 – 33:48: The Mother, the Priest, and the Blessed Sacrament
The podcast explores Tolkien’s love for his mother and the supportive role of Father Francis Morgan. Tolkien’s personal connection to the Blessed Sacrament is highlighted.
33:48 – 42:20: The Lord of the Rings: A Catholic Work
Father Gallagher discusses how “The Lord of the Rings” is fundamentally religious and Catholic, despite lacking explicit Christian elements. The central conflict in the story related to divine honor is explained.
42:20 – 43:52: Conclusion
The discussion wraps up, emphasizing the richness of Tolkien’s work and inviting listeners to embark on their own exploration of “The Lord of the Rings.”