Turning to Gabriel Marcel: Exploring Mysticism Through Philosophy

Podcast: Turning to the Mystics with James Finley
Episode Title: Turning to Gabriel Marcel
Release Date: March 17, 2025
Hosts: James Finley and Kirsten Oates
Produced by: Center for Action and Contemplation

Introduction to the Season and Gabriel Marcel

Turning to the Mystics embarks on its eleventh season by introducing Gabriel Marcel as the featured mystic. James Finley, a clinical psychologist and faculty member at the Living School, alongside Kirsten Oates, delves into Marcel's philosophical contributions and his mystical insights.

Kirsten Oates opens the season by welcoming Jim Finley and introducing Gabriel Marcel:

[00:41] Jim Finley: "Jim, for season 11, the new mystic is Gabriel Marcel."

Who Was Gabriel Marcel?

Gabriel Marcel (1889-1973) was a French philosopher known for his profound explorations of existence, reality, and the human condition. While he achieved prodigious talents in music, composition, and playwriting, it was his philosophical work that left a lasting impact.

Jim Finley provides a historical overview:

[00:41] Jim Finley: "Gabriel Marcel was born in France in 1889... mainly known for his philosophy."

Marcel's philosophy intertwines with mysticism, exploring the essence of being and the divine presence in everyday life. Unlike traditional academic philosophers, Marcel was more of a solitary thinker, often invited to lecture globally without holding a conventional professorship.

Philosophy and Mysticism: Marcel's Unique Blend

Philosophy traditionally seeks to understand life's meaning and the nature of reality. Marcel, however, merges this inquiry with mystical elements, making his work resonate deeply with spiritual seekers.

Kirsten Oates seeks clarity on philosophy:

[02:07] Kirsten Oates: "Can you give us just a high-level overview of what a philosopher does?"

Jim Finley responds by defining philosophy and highlighting Marcel's role:

[02:07] Jim Finley: "A philosopher is someone who shares with us an understanding of what the meaning of life is... Marcel is a philosopher, and so he's going to share with us a meaning of what he sees to be really what it means to be a person."

Marcel is often associated with existentialism, a branch of philosophy concerned with individual existence, freedom, and choice. Unlike some of his contemporaries who leaned towards atheism, Marcel's work eventually reflected his deep-rooted Catholic faith, blending existential inquiry with spiritual depth.

Gabriel Marcel's Life and Personal Journey

Marcel's personal experiences, including the profound influence of his mother and his eventual embrace of Catholicism, shaped his philosophical and mystical outlook. His works often reflect on relationships, intersubjectivity, and the communal oneness that ties individuals to the divine.

Jim Finley shares insights into Marcel's personal life:

[04:48] Jim Finley: "Gabriel Marcel was married... his mother was very influential in his life."

Marcel emphasized the interconnectedness of all beings, a concept he termed "intersubjectivity," viewing human relationships as a gateway to understanding the divine mystery of being.

Fidelity, Hope, and Love: The Path of Mystical Awakening

Central to Marcel's philosophy are the themes of fidelity, hope, and love, which he presents as pathways to deeper mystical awareness. These concepts parallel the classical virtues but are explored in a manner detached from traditional theological language, making them universally applicable.

Jim Finley outlines Marcel's thematic focus:

[22:04] Jim Finley: "He uses the path of fidelity, hope, and love... It's how the mystery of fidelity is realized in the depth dimensions of life itself."

Fidelity involves a committed engagement with reality and relationships, hope represents a steadfast trust in the unfolding of existence, and love transcends mere affection, embodying a profound connection with the divine and all beings.

Marcel's Mystical Insight and Modern Relevance

Marcel's exploration of being as infinite intelligence and infinite love offers a mystical perspective that transcends religious doctrines. His philosophy encourages individuals to embrace presence, humility, and communal oneness as means to navigate modern life's complexities and challenges.

Kirsten Oates reflects on Marcel's influence:

[23:19] Kirsten Oates: "Hearing you reflect on him... Marcel's insights help us with our modern challenges with everyday life?"

Jim Finley responds by connecting Marcel’s philosophy to contemporary issues:

[36:33] Jim Finley: "Modern life... closes off experiential access to the depths, dimensions of our life... Marcel helps reestablish us in that."

In an era marked by rapid change and uncertainty, Marcel's teachings provide a foundation for inner peace and resilience, emphasizing the importance of grounding oneself in the present and nurturing deep, meaningful connections.

Integration of Philosophy and Mysticism in Practice

The season aims to make Marcel's profound and often abstract ideas accessible to listeners. By drawing parallels with other mystics and incorporating practical contemplative practices, James Finley strives to help individuals embody Marcel's insights in their daily lives.

Jim Finley explains his approach:

[10:11] Jim Finley: "I'm going to feel very free in exploring in very explicit terms the mystical dimensions of Marcel's thought."

Listeners are encouraged to engage with Marcel’s philosophy through meditation, prayer, and reflective practices, fostering a habitual sensitivity to the divine presence in all aspects of life.

Conclusion: Embracing the Mystical Path with Gabriel Marcel

As the season progresses, Turning to the Mystics will delve deeper into Gabriel Marcel's teachings, offering listeners a blend of philosophical inquiry and mystical exploration. By engaging with Marcel's work, individuals can cultivate a more profound understanding of their existence and their connection to the divine.

Kirsten Oates concludes the introduction enthusiastically:

[38:45] Kirsten Oates: "I'm excited to linger on Marcel with you this season, Jim, and I'm sure our listeners will be also."

Listeners are invited to participate actively by exploring Marcel’s texts, available through Kenneth Gallagher’s The Philosophy of Gabriel Marcel, and to join upcoming contemplative events hosted by the Center for Action and Contemplation.

Notable Quotes

• Jim Finley [03:09]: "Marcel is a philosopher... how the mystery of fidelity is realized in the depth dimensions of life itself."

• Jim Finley [15:27]: "What is the way of life, or the path along which we become ever more habitually established in this boundaryless presence."

• Jim Finley [18:40]: "I'm carried along by a mystery that transcends me and endlessly includes me as it manifests itself as me."

• Kirsten Oates [20:51]: "The problem is objective... But then mystery takes us into a whole different experience."

Further Resources

• Primary Texts:

  • The Philosophy of Gabriel Marcel by Kenneth T. Gallagher (Cluny Press, 2020)
  • The Philosophy of Existence by Gabriel Marcel (Cluny Press, Providence)

• Upcoming Events:

  • How Can Contemplative Christianity Help Me? – Live online event on Sunday, May 18

Engage with Us

Have questions or insights about Gabriel Marcel or other mystics? Reach out to us at podcasts@cac.org or send a voicemail. Visit cac.org for more resources, publications, and event information.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the introductory episode of the eleventh season of Turning to the Mystics, focusing on Gabriel Marcel. It highlights key discussions, themes, and insights shared by hosts James Finley and Kirsten Oates, enriched with notable quotes and structured sections for clarity.