Guru Viking Podcast Ep353: Mysticism and Demonology in Orthodox Christianity - Rebekah Sturgill
Mar 20, 2026
Rebekah Sturgill, a convert to Orthodox Christianity, mother, and schoolteacher, shares contemplative Orthodox practices and the Jesus Prayer. She discusses liturgical rhythms shaping daily life. Conversation covers focusing on a felt sense of Christ, avoiding imaginative visions, theosis as transformation, and Orthodox views on demons and the spiritual struggle for the human will.
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Begin And End Your Day With A Guided Prayer Rule
- Start and end each day with prayer and develop a sustainable rule under a priest's guidance rather than inventing an unsustainable routine.
- Use simple prayer books and a spiritual father to tailor morning/evening practices to your life stage.
Jesus Prayer Uses Rhythm And Breath For Purification
- The Jesus Prayer uses repeated invocation and a prayer rope to focus on Christ and regulate breath, emphasizing purification over emptying the mind.
- Rebekah contrasts it with Western imaginative meditations, noting breath-linked rhythm and focusing on Christ rather than vivid imagery.
Avoid Imaginative Conjuring In Prayer
- Orthodox practice discourages imaginative visualization in prayer because the imagination can become the focus and mislead practitioners.
- Rebekah explains icons act as real participatory presences to ground prayer without conjuring inner fantasies.
