麻豆约拍

Writer and priest Malcolm Doney examines the act of rumination, which refers both to digestion and the process of deep thought or consideration. He draws comparisons with a host of other natural processes, where material enters in one form and is then converted into something new and life-giving.

Exploring topics ranging from Bible interpretation to composting, Malcolm draws on the words of American novelist Ann Pratchett and farmer and yoga teacher Jennifer Lynn to underpin his observations.

The process of fermentation is also explored as it has always been linked to Christianity's core ritual - Holy Communion. Both grain and grape are made new through fermentation. Malcolm argues that our ideas and beliefs work on our insides like yeast. Invisibly, we are leavened, we rise.

Malcolm concludes that, through rumination, we can access our darkest recesses in which an enormous source of energy for new life can be found. This is a deep, almost unfathomable well from which we can draw spiritual nutrition, wisdom and understanding that provide us with fuel for living.

Presenter: Malcolm Doney
Producer: Jonathan O'Sullivan
A TBI Media production for 麻豆约拍 Radio 4.