How can a 20th-century literary giant guide us in addressing the challenges of modern society?
In a thought-provoking episode of The Catholic Talk Show, Dale Ahlquist, president of the Society of Gilbert Keith Chesterton, along with Ryan Scheel, Ryan DellaCrosse and Father Rich Pagano, illuminated the profound legacy of G.K. Chesterton. More than an influential Catholic writer, Chesterton’s work offers prophetic insights into the societal crises we face today!
“Chesterton was absolutely prophetic; he seemed to be writing about the time that we are living in even more than the time he lived in himself.”
Ahlquist said his writings predicted contemporary issues such as the decline of public education, the sexual revolution and the disintegration of the family unit.
But Chesterton’s writings were not merely criticism or pessimistic forecasts; they were filled with joy, wit and an undeniable love for the truth.
“Chesterton’s point about martyrs is that they’re happy. Martyrdom is a joyful experience.”
This sense of joy and inherent goodness, derived from the profound truths of faith, has led many people to the Church, including C.S. Lewis, who was an atheist until he read Chesterton’s “The Everlasting Man.”
In stark contrast to the shallow offerings of modern media, which Ryan Scheel aptly described as “junk food,” Chesterton’s writings provide a nourishing feast for the mind and the soul.
“Chesterton, his writing sticks to your ribs. That is good food.”
In the face of our current societal crisis, Chesterton’s writings serve as the foundation for a revived, vibrant evangelization.
“Chesterton is a prophet and a saint potentially that we need for our times, that’s going to really help us move into this new evangelization and structure our response and our proclamation.”
Let’s embrace the wisdom of G.K. Chesterton to go against the stream!
