Welcome to episode 233 with Brother Richard Hendrick, who is a Capuchin Franciscan priest-friar, a mindfulness and meditation teacher, and a poet and author.

For over 20 years, he has worked to bring the insights of the Christian Contemplative tradition to wider public awareness, particularly in relation to modern mindfulness theory and has worked as a retreat giver and chaplain in various settings, including schools, hospitals, and prisons.

He is the author of two books about mindfulness and mediation and his poem 'Lockdown' went viral in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 and was translated into twenty-six languages.

In this episode I chat to Brother Richard about why he decided to join the priesthood, his path to becoming a monk and the origins of the Capuchin Franciscan brotherhood.

We chat about the difference between meaning and purpose, how to find meaning in all aspects of life, facing our own mortality and looking for answers to life’s big questions.

We also chat about small acts of service, getting curious, the importance of differentiating between self-centeredness and self-compassion and how to cultivate compassion for ourselves as well as others.

This conversation with Brother Richard had quite a profound effect on me and I’ve found myself coming back to it several times since we spoke.

I can’t wait to hear what you take from it if you choose to listen!

Follow Brother Richard on social media @brorichard

His blog can be found at Brother Richard's blog: mindful mystical musings.

More about his books here: Brother Richard Hendrick | Hachette UK

You can connect with me on social media @propermentalpodcast or via www.propermentalpodcast.com.

You can support the show and help me to keep it independent and ad free by buying a coffee at

www.buymeacoffee.com/propermental

Another great way to support the show and spread the word is to rate, review and subscribe on whatever platform you get your podcasts from.

If you or anyone you know needs to find support in your local area, please go to www.hubofhope.co.uk

Thanks for listening!