The Abbey of Misrule

The Abbey of Misrule, authored from an Orthodox Christian perspective, explores themes of spiritual crisis, societal decline, and the questioning of Western values and progress. It advocates for a return to traditional spiritual roots, critiques modernity and technological dominance, and discusses the loss of faith in institutions amidst recent global events.

Spirituality Societal Critique Modern Challenges Tradition vs Progress Identity and Culture Authority and Institutions Nature vs Technology

The hottest Substack posts of The Abbey of Misrule

And their main takeaways

'Such were the works of Walsingham'

357 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Pilgrimage History Worship Devotion
  1. Walsingham used to be a major pilgrimage site in England where many people traveled to show their devotion to the Virgin Mary. The last mile of the journey was traditionally done barefoot to honor the holy ground.
  2. The Slipper Chapel at Walsingham has a rich history. After being damaged, it was restored and even became a minor basilica, showing the ongoing importance of the site for Catholic pilgrims.
  3. While large pilgrimage sites attract many visitors, some people prefer the peace and quiet of smaller parish churches. It's nice to connect with faith in a serene environment, away from crowds.

England's Nazareth

525 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Pilgrimage Religious history Rituals Cultural heritage
  1. Little Walsingham is a unique village in England where Christian faith is still alive and well. It has a lot of shops selling religious icons and attracts pilgrims from all over.
  2. The village's history dates back to 1061 when a noblewoman named Richeldis had a vision to build a replica of the house where Mary was told she would give birth to Jesus. This site became a major pilgrimage destination.
  3. Despite the destruction of the original shrine by Henry VIII, the village has seen a revival in Christian pilgrimage. New shrines have been built, allowing people from different Christian denominations to come together and honor their faith.

The Vagabond King

657 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Theology Spirituality Culture Politics
  1. Christianity and modern civilization often clash. Many argue they can't be reconciled because current society prioritizes wealth, power, and politics over Christ's teachings.
  2. Living a Christ-like life means focusing on love, humility, and caring for the poor, rather than seeking worldly power or material success.
  3. True change comes from within communities through genuine faith and action, not through top-down coercive efforts to build a 'Christian civilization'.

Matter Matters

603 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Pilgrimage Nature Belief systems Modernity
  1. People's view of the world has changed from ancient times, when nature and community played central roles, to modernity, which often focuses on individualism and progress.
  2. Christianity sees matter not as evil or purely good but as a creation of a good God that can be damaged by human actions. Our relationship with it is important.
  3. Experiences with sacred places, like churches or icons, can evoke deep feelings and connections, reminding us that spirituality is deeply intertwined with the physical world.

The Gulf and the Silence

641 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Literature Self-reflection Cultural critique
  1. When the power goes out, life changes a lot. People talk more and do things differently without all the gadgets.
  2. Going without electricity made one family reflect on what they gained and lost with technology. It brought a calm, slower pace to their lives.
  3. Experiencing silence can reveal new rhythms in life, making people appreciate simple moments like reading books and sitting by the fire.
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The Monthly Salon: January

153 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Events Conversation Christianity Nature Technology
  1. There are several upcoming events in 2025 in Ireland, England, and the USA focused on topics like Christianity, culture, and nature. These events include discussions, talks, and community activities.
  2. People are experiencing significant changes in technology, politics, and climate this year. Many are reflecting on how these changes make them feel and what they want to achieve in the new year.
  3. The author is curious about readers' thoughts and resolutions for the new year. They encourage open conversation about feelings surrounding current events and personal goals.

Rise and Fall

502 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Christianity Orthodoxy Cultural Trends Spiritual Practice
  1. Orthodox Christianity is gaining popularity, especially among young men, as it offers traditional teachings and a spiritual challenge that many find refreshing compared to modern churches.
  2. The decline of liberalism in the West is leading to a search for new ideologies, but there currently is no clear replacement, which creates uncertainty about the future.
  3. As Orthodox Christianity grows, it may attract both support and criticism, highlighting the importance of staying true to its teachings amidst a changing cultural landscape.

The Moses Option

998 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Activism Philosophy Cultural Commentary Spiritual growth
  1. Activism is about trying to fix the world, but it often leads to thinking in a narrow way. Instead, we need to focus on personal change and spiritual growth.
  2. The true path to making a difference might be through sacrifice and self-emptying, rather than fighting against the problems we see around us.
  3. To really connect with the world and each other, we should start by looking inward and understanding our own flaws, like the story of Moses who carried his past while seeking transformation.

Telling the Bees

280 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
📚 Literature Poetry Fiction Non-fiction Essays Mythology
  1. Domnoc, a sixth-century figure, had a special bond with bees, often feeling more connected to them than to people. This highlights a deep connection to nature.
  2. He was seen as a different kind of person, wandering and dreaming, suggesting that he didn’t feel entirely at home in the human world. This idea resonates with many who feel out of place in society.
  3. The notion that humans come from somewhere else and are on a journey back can inspire feelings of longing and purpose. It reminds us to reflect on our deeper connections and origins.

The Monthly Salon: December

196 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity Spirituality Philosophy Culture
  1. The author is sharing their last post of the year, expressing gratitude for their readers' support. It's a time of reflection as the year ends.
  2. There are several exciting updates, including a new lecture and podcast that can be accessed through various platforms. This is a chance for readers to engage with fresh content.
  3. The author encourages readers to consider gifting subscriptions to their publication, making it an easy option for last-minute Christmas presents.

Donald and the Pincer

498 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Populism Media influence Cultural critique Globalization
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the political and media establishment, and they want change. This feeling is similar to what led to movements like Brexit and the rise of populist parties.
  2. Progressive leftism and corporate capitalism are working together more than ever. Both are promoting a modern world that values technology and globalism, often ignoring local traditions and cultures.
  3. There's a growing push for a different approach rooted in local identities and community values. Some believe we need to focus on what truly matters in our lives, rather than getting caught up in modern political divisions.

The Monthly Salon: November

309 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Mental health Relationships Youth culture
  1. Social media can be harmful, especially to young girls. It often preys on their insecurities and can lead to feelings of anxiety and shame.
  2. Many people feel a sense of disconnection in modern life, creating a desire to find deeper meaning and connections. This could lead to a spiritual revival among younger generations.
  3. There's a push for community and personal limits in response to the pressures of technology. People are looking to reclaim love and meaningful relationships in a world dominated by social media.

The Everlasting Man

460 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Philosophy Apologetics Christianity Literature
  1. Humans are more than just another animal species. We have a unique role on Earth that sets us apart.
  2. Christianity is different from other religions because its founding story is about God becoming human and actively engaging in our world.
  3. The Church is important because it represents a revolution against worldly values, and history shows that Christianity has survived and reborn many times.

The Monthly Salon: October

199 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Art Religion Literature Discussion
  1. The author recently gave a talk called 'Against Christian Civilisation', which is available as a recording. It's good to share ideas and thoughts with others.
  2. There's a monthly open house for readers to discuss any topics they like, encouraging free expression and friendly debate.
  3. The author emphasizes maintaining good manners and respect in discussions, similar to how people should act in real-life conversations.

Two British events

135 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Events Religion Spirituality Debate Tradition
  1. There's a two-day conference on 'post-liberalism' in Cambridge on December 13th and 14th. Many interesting speakers will be there.
  2. On December 16th, there's an event in London discussing how the West is influenced by 'pseudo-religion'. It will include debates on various spiritual topics.
  3. Expect more content like essays and stories coming soon, as things will calm down after these events.

A Short Note About A Mistake

707 implied HN points • 23 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Ideology Politics Nature Environment Society
  1. Be cautious of how your words can be hijacked by others for their own agendas.
  2. Make sure to research and clarify the background and intentions of any publication or platform that approaches you for content.
  3. Stand firm in your values and beliefs, and don't allow your writing to be used to support ideologies that you oppose.

What is a Mother?

483 implied HN points • 29 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Cultural Progressive Neoliberalism Feminism
  1. Ireland's constitution of 1937 marked a significant shift towards independence, neutrality, and revival of Irish culture and language.
  2. The evolution of Ireland from a traditional Catholic society to a more progressive, globalized state has led to significant changes in laws and societal values.
  3. Proposed changes to the Irish constitution highlight a shift towards progressive ideals, with a focus on removing traditional gender roles and promoting individual rights over familial structures.

A Message For My Readers

393 implied HN points • 19 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Spirituality
  1. The author shared a message with his readers on reaching 50,000 subscribers.
  2. He expressed gratitude towards his readers and offered a discount on paid subscriptions as a gesture of thanks.
  3. The author highlighted the privilege of writing for a living and the value he places on each subscriber.

Into the Desert, Into the Woods

936 implied HN points • 07 Jul 23
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Spirituality Christianity Orthodoxy Journey
  1. The author has been writing for two years about the darkness of the times and is now shifting towards a more spiritual understanding.
  2. The author will be writing explicitly from an Orthodox Christian perspective in the future, focusing on the spiritual dimensions of the times.
  3. The author is taking a break for the summer to recover and will return in September with a new phase for the Abbey of Misrule.

Out of Egypt

420 implied HN points • 28 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Saints Mystery History Christianity Origins
  1. St. Catherine of Alexandria, an Egyptian saint, has connections to an industrial town in Ireland.
  2. The presence of Egyptian Coptic monks suggests early Christian influence in Ireland.
  3. Intriguing theories propose that Irish Christianity may have originated from the Egyptian desert.

Patrick and the Pagans

321 implied HN points • 17 Mar 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Saints Christianity Traditions
  1. St. Patrick's Day in Ireland is a day of celebrations and parades but visiting wells dedicated to St. Patrick can be a more meaningful experience.
  2. Wells dedicated to St. Patrick, like Cluain Patrick in County Roscommon, offer a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere, with connections to Christian and pagan history.
  3. The presence of ancient trees like yews at Christian sites suggests a blend of Christianity with pre-existing pagan beliefs, creating a unique spiritual landscape.

Sympathetic Magic

319 implied HN points • 18 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Religion Beliefs Traditions Practices Saints
  1. At wells in Ireland, like St Ita's well, a practice of 'sympathetic magic' takes place where objects of the sick are brought for healing, showing a blending of ancient magical traditions with Christianity.
  2. This 'sympathetic magic' practice involves tying items like socks, handkerchiefs, and shirts to crosses or trees near the well in hopes of a saint's healing power.
  3. The story of St Ita and the lessons she imparted - faith, simplicity, and love - are tied to the traditions surrounding the well, emphasizing spiritual values.

The Half-Finished House

260 implied HN points • 03 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History Culture Travel Literature Fiction
  1. The coastal walk in Ardmore, County Waterford, Ireland, offers layers of history including industrial mines, revolutionary soldiers, and slave raids, showcasing the area's rich and varied past.
  2. Father O'Donnell's wellhouse, built with the intention of healing properties, remains unfinished due to a local complaint to the priest, halting the project and leaving it frozen in time a century later.
  3. The incomplete wellhouse serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of peaceful times and the enduring presence of ruins along coastlines, highlighting the intertwined stories of ambition, social dynamics, and history.

What Lies Beneath

328 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Visual art Painting Crafts Photography
  1. Ladywell in Abbey, County Galway is a well-maintained, historic site with links to a monastery and folklore.
  2. The ritual of visiting wells in Ireland includes circling the well, saying prayers, leaving an offering, and drinking the waters.
  3. The Ladywell in Abbey was believed to have healing powers for issues like warts, highlighting the historical significance of these wells.

Silent Mystery

336 implied HN points • 07 Jan 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Mystery History Exploration Culture Religion
  1. The writer explores a mysterious holy well in County Galway, Ireland, with unique features and folklore.
  2. Despite thorough research, little information is available about the well's history, saint, or significance.
  3. Local residents are tight-lipped about the well, adding to its air of secrecy and intrigue.

A Bird in the Hand

293 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture History Faith
  1. A holy well found during a camping trip in Donegal had offerings like statues and a child's shoe.
  2. St. Conall, a local Donegal saint from the sixth century, has intriguing stories, including about repentance.
  3. Early Irish Christianity used handbells rung by Abbotts for prayer, with St. Conall's sixth-century bell surviving in the British Museum.

A Féchín Rumour

300 implied HN points • 21 Jan 24
💾 History Religious history Folklore
  1. The pilgrimage site of St. Féchín contains a mass grave from the Great Famine in Ireland.
  2. St. Féchín's well, known for healing, is now dry and neglected in a field of cows.
  3. Historical rumors suggest St. Féchín may have played a role in a deadly plague upon society as a response to a request.

Mary of the Gael

254 implied HN points • 01 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Saints Christianity Religious history Spiritual warfare
  1. St. Brigid of Kildare was a significant figure in Irish Christianity, known for her monastic life and miracles.
  2. The lives of early Christian saints are often portrayed as stories of spiritual warfare and miracles.
  3. There is a neo-pagan version that St. Brigid may have been a Christianized version of a pre-Christian Celtic goddess.

Wells and Bells

209 implied HN points • 10 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration History Travel Religion Culture Literature
  1. The story introduces St Declan of Ardmore who was an influential figure in Ireland before even St Patrick's arrival, suggesting early Christian ties even to Egypt
  2. St Declan had a powerful presence in Ardmore, with his monastery becoming popular and attracting pilgrims
  3. The well associated with St Declan is a historic site where he baptised early Irish Christians, and is still a place of pilgrimage today

Holy Ghost

222 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Christianity
  1. Details may not always be important, focus on the overall picture
  2. Marian apparitions are a fascinating aspect of Folk Christianity
  3. Controversies and mysteries surround the Marian visions and their impact on Catholicism

The Raindance

512 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture Counterculture Time travel Identity History Tradition
  1. The concept of time travel explored in a novel influences the type of people interested in it, showcasing different motivations and expectations.
  2. Reflections on identity and roots highlight the importance of knowing one's origin and history in a rapidly changing world.
  3. Contrasting cultural practices of asking 'what do you do?' versus 'where are you from?' showcase the shift from personal connections to professional identities.

The West Must Die

534 implied HN points • 31 May 23
🎭️ Culture Essays Culture Wars Identity Progressivism
  1. The essay discusses the limitations and challenges of writing and how it can shape our understanding.
  2. It delves into the concept of 'the West' and the cultural conflicts surrounding it.
  3. Finally, it raises the idea of letting go of the current concept of 'the West' to make way for something new and better.

The Monthly Salon: February

177 implied HN points • 26 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Philosophy Personal Growth Literature Spirituality Politics
  1. The author reflects on the changing beliefs and values in society, questioning if it's them, the culture or both that have changed.
  2. Through writing, the author processes conflicting emotions and ideas, especially as the culture shifts rapidly around them.
  3. The author invites readers to think about what they have changed their minds about in recent years, whether personal, political, cultural, or spiritual.

The Sound of Wings

210 implied HN points • 18 Jan 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Saints God Nature Prayer Belief
  1. The cold is described as the worst element due to its physical effects.
  2. The wind is considered the worst among the elements for its impactful force.
  3. The tree is personified and serves as a home to birds, offering protection and sustenance.

Snakes in the Rock

166 implied HN points • 06 Mar 24
⛪ Faith & Spirituality Saints Christianity Spiritual guidance
  1. The story talks about a monk named Cadoc and his interactions with Arthur and Keyne, focusing more on spiritual teachings rather than worldly battles.
  2. Cadoc's teachings emphasized the importance of inner battles and spiritual growth, guiding the monks towards the light.
  3. The narrative of Keyne mentioned by Cadoc was likely a lesson on spiritual warfare and inner struggles rather than physical skirmishes.

The Tale of the Machine

416 implied HN points • 29 Jun 23
📖 Philosophy Modernity Religion Technology Culture Spirituality
  1. The essay series discusses the modern project of replacing nature with technology and the emergence of the Machine as a powerful force shaping society.
  2. It explores the impacts of Machine values on culture, including the loss of human connections, cultural upheaval, and the rise of individualism.
  3. The series delves into potential responses to the dominance of the Machine, including stoicism, reactionary radicalism, and the search for eternal values amidst societal decline.

Intermission: Saints of the Greenwood

505 implied HN points • 11 Feb 23
  1. The modern crisis is spiritual, beyond politics and economics.
  2. No society has survived without a religious core.
  3. Advocates for a 'wild Christianity' that goes back to the roots of the faith.

The Jellyfish Tribe

411 implied HN points • 16 Mar 23
📖 Philosophy Social contract Populism Human nature
  1. Growing skepticism towards authority figures is becoming more common.
  2. Many people are losing faith in institutions and leaders in the Western world.
  3. Events like the Iraq war, the 2008 financial crisis, Brexit, Trump's presidency, and COVID-19 have contributed to a decline in trust in traditional systems.