Christian Matson – Are there still hermits?

Christian history has multiple stories of people who felt called by God to separate themselves from the bustle of society and live alone, often in remote places. In the first centuries of Christianity, the desert fathers and mothers went into the wilderness seeking a simple life of spirituality and prayer. In the Byzantine Empire there were the stylites, or pillar-saints, who lived atop columns and practiced extreme asceticism. 

Other hermits lived in seclusion within society, sometimes in little cells attached to churches. In the Middle Ages, this practice became more popular, especially among women, some of whom were physically walled up in their cells, with no door or means of exit, representing their death to the world. Known as anchorites or anchoresses (from the ancient Greek ἀναχωρεῖν, meaning “to withdraw”), the most famous of these was the mystic and theologian Julian of Norwich. 

The tradition of the hermit vocation has deep roots in pre-Christian practices, too. Hebrew scriptures are filled with stories of people fleeing into the desert to escape society and draw closer to God. In the New Testament, both John the Baptist and Jesus follow their example. And other religions, including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sufism, also have traditions associated with the eremitic life. 

But what about today? What does the life of a Christian hermit look like, in the modern era? On this episode of Glad You Asked, the hosts talk to Brother Christian Matson, a professed hermit in the Diocese of Lexington. Brother Christian professes a rule of life that allows him to support himself financially through his work in the arts while he lives a life of contemplation in a private hermitage.

You can learn more about the hermit vocation, and about Brother Christian’s work, in these links. 

“What is a hermit?” by John Christman

What is a hermit? - U.S. Catholic

“How To Be Alone,” by Alexander Jusdanis

How To Be Alone | Sojourners

“Medieval anchoresses found spiritual freedom in tiny cells,” by Ellyn Sanna

Medieval anchoresses found spiritual freedom in tiny cells - U.S. Catholic

“Sixty Feet Above: The Difficult Sanctity of Simeon Stylites,” by Eric Shuler

Sixty Feet Above: The Difficult Sanctity of Simeon Stylites

“The Desert Fathers and Mothers”

The Desert Fathers and Mothers — Center for Action and Contemplation

“Catholic diocesan hermit approved by Kentucky bishop comes out as transgender,” by Jack Jenkins

Catholic diocesan hermit approved by Kentucky bishop comes out as transgender | National Catholic Reporter

“Theater partnership puts depression, suicide prevention under spotlight,” by Buddy Forbes

Theater partnership puts depression, suicide prevention under spotlight

Glad You Asked is sponsored by the Claretian Missionaries.