Pádraig Ó Tuama on poetry, conflict resolution, and the Stations of the Cross

About this episode

Pádraig Ó Tuama discusses the intersection of poetry, faith, and personal identity in the context of his experiences with conversion therapy.

The poet and theologian, Pádraig Ó Tuama, joins James Martin, S.J., on “The Spiritual Life” podcast to talk about how poetry and the Taizé community became a lifeline for Pádraig after he was subjected to multiple exorcisms, attempting to cast out his homosexuality as a form of conversion therapy. Pádraig is the host of On Being’s podcast, “Poetry Unbound,” and has published volumes of poetry, essays, a memoir and has written on theological topics. His books include: Being Here: Prayers for Curiosity, Justice, and Love Kitchen Hymns Timecodes: 0:00 What do you really want? 1:25 The conversion therapies inflicted upon Pádraig Ó Tuama 7:00 Pádraig’s younger years among the Catholic charismatic movement 11:24 How Pádraig accepted his homosexuality and renewed his faith 17:40 Coming out as a poet and being haunted by Emily Dickenson 25:44 Pádraig’s understanding of prayer 32:25 Practicing the Stations of the Cross 37:45 Required spiritual practices for reconciliation 43:20 How to deal with criticism 51:40 Audience Question: What practices can I bring from retreats into my daily life? Read Fr. Jim's article reflecting on poetry and prayer. Do you have a spiritual question for Fr. Jim…

People in this episode

Host: James Martin, S.J.

Guest: Pádraig Ó Tuama

Topics covered

• poetry
• conflict resolution
• homosexuality
• faith
• spiritual practices
• Stations of the Cross

Keywords

• poetry
• conflict resolution
• homosexuality
• faith
• Stations of the Cross
• spiritual practices
• Pádraig Ó Tuama

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: On Being

Books & works: Poetry Unbound, Being Here: Prayers for Curiosity, Justice, and Love, Kitchen Hymns

More episodes of The Spiritual Life with Fr. James Martin, S.J.

• A spirituality of family life with Katie Prejean McGrady · June 9, 2026 · 54 min
• Robert George on how to disagree and remain spiritually grounded · June 2, 2026 · 57 min
• Yunuen Trujillo’s ministry to migrants and L.G.B.T.Q. Catholics · May 26, 2026 · 54 min
• Actor Martin Sheen on the heroes that shaped his spirituality and activism · May 19, 2026 · 50 min
• Liza Colón-Zayas of "The Bear" speaks honestly about her struggles with faith · May 12, 2026 · 45 min
• Filipino Cardinal “Ambo” David on hearing God's voice in the Bible · May 5, 2026 · 41 min