the Iconocast: Robert Ellsberg (episode 37)

September 22, 2011the Iconocast Collective

Post image for the Iconocast: Robert Ellsberg (episode 37)

In this episode, Joanna and Mark interview Robert Ellsberg.

Robert Ellsberg is the son of Carol Cummings and the American military analyst and whistleblower, Daniel Ellsberg. At age 19, Robert dropped out of college, intending to spend a few months with the Catholic Worker Movement. He stayed to become the managing editor of The Catholic Worker for two years (1976-8), a job that would introduce him to Dorothy Day and consequently would allow him to work with Day for the last five years of her life. This life-changing experience prompted him to convert to Catholicism.

In 1987 he began work as editor-in-chief of Orbis Books. He in the author of several books, including All Saints: Daily Reflections on Saints, Prophets, and Witness for Our Time, and the Saints’ Guide to Happiness. His book Blessed Among All Women tied a Catholic Press Association record by winning awards for Gender, Spirituality, and Popular Presentation of the Catholic Faith. He is the editor of the published diaries and letters of Dorothy Day. He currently resides in Ossining, New York with his wife and their three children.

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Intro and bumper music for this episode is De Usuahia a la Quiaca by Gustavo Santaolalla.

  • ric hudgens

    Great interview. You asked complicated questions in simple ways and then let Ellsberg expound, which he did with great fullness, insight and beauty. So much richness here. Wonderful stuff on the importance of our spiritual devotion, happiness and holiness, the little way, and the challenges of love. Thx!

  • WesHB

    Haven’t heard this yet, but am very grateful that you’ve interviewed one of my true friends and companions on the Way.

  • WesHB

    Beautiful work, friends. You brought out the heart of the matter: how to live the spiritual practices that sustain a life of difficult discipleship for the long haul. The interview truly made me feel….happy.

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