
Harry Potter and the Sacred Text
542 episodes — Page 10 of 11

Glory: The Weighing of the Wands (Book 4, Chapter 18)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of "glory" in chapter eighteen of "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Draco's "Potter Stinks" badges, Hermione's toast, and Snape's empty threats. Our question this week is: Does glory require sacrifice?Next week we're reading chapter nineteen, The Hungarian Horntail, through the theme of delight. Thanks this week to Lia Hagan for our voicemail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unity: The Four Champions (Book 4, Chapter 17)
Note: We discuss sexual assault and suicidal ideation in this episode. If these topics are something you want to avoid, we understand. Here's a funny picture of a walrus to hold you over until next week. Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "unity" in chapter seventeen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we ask: Why is Snape in the back room? Why is Ron so mad? Why can’t Hagrid wave hello? Our philosophical question this week is: When is the dissolution of difference worthwhile for the sake of unity? Next week we're reading chapter eighteen, The Weighing of the Wands, through the theme of glory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Resentment: The Goblet of Fire (Book 4, Chapter 16)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of, "resentment" in chapter sixteen of, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire." This week we discuss Hermione's jealousy, Hagrid's hypocrisy, and Dumbledore's hospitality. Our question this week is: whose responsibility is it to correct for resentment? Next week we're reading chapter seventeen, The Four Champions, through the theme of unity. Unfortunately, the episode will be out a day late, so look out! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trauma: Beauxbatons and Durmstrang (Book 4, Chapter 15)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of trauma in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss returning home, acknowledging pain, and the BAMF known as Madame Maxime. Our question this week is: how do you integrate trauma into your personal narrative?Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, The Goblet and Fire, through the theme of resentment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Transformation: The Unforgiveable Curses (Book 4, Chapter 14)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of transformation in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Mike McHargue, host of Ask Science Mike and The Liturgists. We discuss the ways that Neville as like Christ, Moody is like the Buddha, and Snape is maybe, possibly pitiable. Our question this week is: Can transformation ever be complete?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bethy Crowe. Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, Beauxbatons and Durmstrang, through the theme of trauma. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Judgment: Mad-Eye Moody (Book 4, Chapter 13)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of judgement in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week we discuss blind love, alcoholism at Hogwarts, and why we all take such joy in Draco being turned into a ferret. Our question this week is: how do we learn to value things based on their inherent worth, rather than their functionality?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Bri Anele. Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, The Unforgivable Curse, through the theme of transformation. We'll be also be joined by special guest, Science Mike, from The Liturgists podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Excitement: The Triwizard Tournament (Book 4, Chapter 12)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of excitement in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we admire the Creevey brothers, interrogate Harry's blasé attitude, and wonder what Barty Crouch Jr. must be feeling. Our question this week is: Are formal ceremonies impersonal or transcendent? Our voicemail this week is thanks to Charlotte Binks. Next week we're reading chapter thirteen, Mad-Eye Moody, through the theme of judgement.. Stay warm! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Christmas Poem: Little Red Riding Hood and the Wolf
Here's a little treat from Casper. You can find the poem in Revolting Rhymes by Roald Dahl. Happy Holidays! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition: Owl Post and Marya Bangee
It's time for our first round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! We hear your thoughts about stigma, the S.P.E.W. campaign, Fred and George's resilience, obliviation, and Hermione's muggle knowledge. Thanks so much to Angela Higginson, Jennifer Asturias, Jarrod Green, and Annalisa Galgano for sending in their messages. We also are visited by activist and organizer Marya Bangee, who tells us about her work and teaches us a little bit about the Quran.Next week, we're reading Chapter 12, The Triwizard Tournament, through the theme of excitement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Play: Aboard the Hogwarts Express (Book 4, Chapter 11)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of play in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Queen Victoria, how defense against the dark arts is like sex education, and why it's okay to be rude behind closed doors. Our question this week is: Is there ever a time when play isn't appropriate? Our voicemail this week is thanks to Sara Ayebar. Next week, tune in for an owl post with special guest Marya Bangee. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Promises: Mayhem at the Ministry (Book 4, Chapter 10)
Vanessa and Casper revisit the theme of promises in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss whether Rita Skeeter is a good journalist, Arthur Weasley's work at the ministry, and shifting familial roles. Our question this week is: When is it appropriate to break promises?Next week we're reading chapter eleven, Aboard the Hogwarts Express, through the theme of play. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Crysta Swarts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Grudges: The Dark Mark (Book 4, Chapter 9)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of grudges in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we continue our discussion about Veelas and sexism, look at the connection between the personal and the political, and celebrate Hermione's truth-telling. Our question this week is: what responsibility to do we have to understand and forgive people who perpetrate violent hate crimes?Next week we're reading chapter ten, Mayhem at the Ministry, through the theme of promise. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Lonna Hays. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fandom: The Quidditch World Cup (Book 4, Chapter 8)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of fandom in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, our opening story is told by Kevin T. Porter, host of Gilmore Guys and Good Christian Fun. We discuss Veeela, nationalism, and Krum's decision to catch the snitch. Our question this week is: Is there a difference between sports fans and other fans?Next week we're reading chapter nine, The Dark Mark, through the theme of grudges. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Fran Smith. Happy Thanksgiving! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beauty: Bagman and Crouch (Book 4, Chapter 7)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of beauty in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, we discuss Mr. Weasley's exoticization of muggles, Harry's generosity towards Ron, and why Fred and George gamble their whole life savings. Our question this week is: Can you disentangle beautiful things from the sometimes ugly situations (and people) that create them?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Emily Pickens. Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Quidditch World Cup, through the theme of fandom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Acceptance: The Portkey (Book 4, Chapter 6)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of acceptance in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss different parent/child relationships as they manifest in Amos and Cedric Diggory and The Weasleys. Our question this week is: How do we know when to accept someone else's choice, even if we think it's the wrong one? Next week we're reading chapter seven, Bagman and Crouch, through the theme of beauty. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Leena Werskey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Masculinity: Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes (Book 4, Chapter 5)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Masculinity in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper discuss Ron's love of quidditch, Bill's gender performance, and Mr. Weasley's Oedipal conflict. Our question this week is: How does one actually get outside the boundaries of gender? Next week we're reading chapter six, The Portkey, through the theme of Acceptance. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Weronika Bartczak. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mystery: Back to the Burrow (Book 4, Chapter 4)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Mystery in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper are joined by Zach Kerzee, the founding pastor of Simple Church. Zach tells our opening story, shares from his experience with the foster care system, and deconstructs what Arthur Weasley does right in this chapter. Our question this week is: How do we manage our fear of the unknown?Next week we're reading chapter five, Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, through the theme of masculinity. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Tom Johnson. And here's a link to that episode of Radiolab Vanessa mentions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Awareness: The Invitation (Book 4, Chapter 3)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Awareness in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper talk about Dudley's weight problems, Molly Weasley's perfect letter to the Dursleys, and why Muggles can't go to The Quidditch World Cup. The burning question this week is: Who is the narrator of this text?Next week we're reading chapter four, Back to the Burrow, through the theme of mystery. Our sponsor this week is Care/Of and our voicemail this week is thanks to Kate McManus. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Destruction: The Scar (Book 4, Chapter 2)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of destruction in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. This week, Vanessa and Casper negotiate their different theological perspectives, discuss the nature of confidentiality, and celebrate a non-present Hermione. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can destruction be a force for good?Next week we're reading chapter three, The Invitation, through the theme of awareness. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Olga. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Instinct: The Riddle House (Book 4, Chapter 1)
Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire with The Riddle House - perhaps one of the most incongruous chapter in the the whole Harry Potter series. They discuss Frank's PTSD, Nagini's anatomy, and how Voldemort is just a big baby. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we avoid prejudice while following our instincts? This week our voicemail is thanks to Katie Kelly-Hankin. Next week we're reading The Scar, through the theme of destruction. Be sure to check out our website harrypottersacredtext.com to buy tickets for our live shows. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trust: Cat, Rat and Dog (Book 3, Chapter 17) — Live from Washington, DC
Thank you so much to everyone who came out for our tour this summer and made it such a success! Here's the audio from our DC show, with special guest Scott Perlo. For our East Coast tour, we read Prisoner of Azkaban chapter 17, Cat, Rat and Dog, through the theme of trust. We'll be back to our regular episode on October 5th with Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition: Owl Post and Sejal Patel
In our final episode of Season 3, we have a chance to sit down with lawyer and fellow divinity school graduate, Sejal Patel. She chats with us about justice, Hinduism, and the Niebuhr brothers. We also do a last round of owl posts for Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, hearing your thoughts about friendship, trauma, isolation, and spiritual practices.The incredible choir is: Ann Phelps, Suzanne Daniel, John-Wesley Hodges, Robert Totten. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wrap-Up: Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
In the final episode of season three, Vanessa and Casper pull out a few key insights from Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They take some time to talk about Harry Potter himself, reflect on Voldemort's absence, and compare Draco to a young white supremacist. Throughout the episode they come back to ideas about purity, justice, and identity formation. Next week, we're rounding out the season with a final Owl Post and a conversation about justice with lawyer Sejal Patel. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Love: Owl Post Again (Book 3, Chapter 22)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of love in the final chapter of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This is our third time discussing love of the podcast, but we still have so many questions: Where does overwhelming love come from? Should we try to be selfless in our love? Is the tooth fairy a fraud?Our voicemail this week is thanks to Colin Holden. Next week we're doing a full book review of Prisoner of Azkaban! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Crisis: Hermione's Secret (Book 3, Chapter 21)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of crisis in chapter twenty-one of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's existential crisis, Dumbledore's rebellious streak, and Madame Pomfrey's delicious boulder of chocolate. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we find meaning in this time-turner business? Next week we're reading chapter twenty-two (the last chapter of Prisoner of Azkaban!), Owl Post Again, through the theme of love. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Charlottesville: Call it what it is
Today was our first day back in the studio after the white nationalist rally in Charlottesville, VA this past weekend. We wanted to share a few thoughts from the team. You can access the Charlottesville Syllabus that Casper mentions here. We've also put it as a button on the top of our website: harrypottersacredtext.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justice: The Dementors' Kiss (Book 3, Chapter 20)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of Justice in chapter twenty of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss justice in all its forms: poetic, divine, restorative and insufficient. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Can an injustice ever be rectified? This week's voicemail was thanks to Peighton. Next week we're reading chapter twenty-one, Hermione's Secret, through the theme of crisis. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forgiveness: Owl Post with Professor Stephanie Paulsell
This week, Casper's out of town so Vanessa sits down with Stephanie Paulsell, Professor of Ministry Studies at Harvard Divinity School, to talk forgiveness and answer some owl post. Our regular scheduled programing will be back next week with Chapter 20, The Dementors' Kiss through the theme of Justice. Much thanks to Bri, Elizabeth, Abby, and Seth for their voicemails. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mercy: The Servant of Lord Voldemort (Book 3, Chapter 19)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of mercy in chapter nineteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Snape's dual identity, Pettigrew's shrewd manipulations, and the legacy of Lily and James Potter. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What's the differing between mercy and forgiveness? This week's voicemail was thanks to Blair Boudreaux. Next week we're reading chapter twenty, The Dementors' Kiss, through the theme of justice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Isolation: Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot, and Prongs (Book 3, Chapter 18)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of isolation in chapter eighteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they pity Peter Pettigrew, wonder about The Whomping Willow and solve the problem of suffering. (Just kidding on that last one.) Throughout the episode they consider the question: What stories do the buildings and objects around us have to tell? This week's voicemail was thanks to Keeley Harris. Next week we're reading chapter nineteen, The Servant of Lord Voldemort, through the theme of Mercy. Don't forget to tweet us your best Dumbledore drag names: @hpsacredtext. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Innocence: Cat, Rat and Dog (Book 3, Chapter 17)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of innocence in chapter seventeen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They bemoan how the criminal justice system has betrayed Sirius Black, discuss Ron's prejudice again werewolves, and try and come up with a good metaphor for the chaos of this chapter. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Who do we normally suspect of guilt?This week's story was told by Kathy Tu, the brilliant host of the Nancy Podcast from WNYC Studios. Next week we're reading chapter eighteen, Moony, Wormtail, Padfoot and Prongs, through the theme of isolation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wonder: Professor Trelawney's Prediction (Book 3, Chapter 16)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of wonder in chapter sixteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss flobberworms, how Divination class is like divinity school, and why Professor Trelawney doesn't believe in her own prediction. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Should we try to answer unanswerable questions?Next week we're reading chapter seventeen, Cat, Rat and Dog, through the theme of innocence. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Laurie Benson. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pain: The Quidditch Final (Book 3, Chapter 15)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of pain in chapter fifteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Casper's beautiful teeth, Vanessa's dislike of Hogwarts houses, and why Professor Trelawney is a better teacher than we once thought. Throughout the episode they consider the question: When is it okay to knowingly cause someone else’s pain?Next week we're reading chapter sixteen, Professor Trelawney's Prediction, through the theme of wonder. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Lauren Lo Bue. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imagination: Snape's Grudge (Book 3, Chapter 14)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of imagination in chapter fourteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, in some major reversals, Vanessa expresses concern for Snape and Casper blesses Hermione. They also discuss babies, puppies, and our criminal justice system. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How can we use imagination to do the most good in the world? Next week we're reading chapter fifteen, The Quidditch Final, through the theme of pain. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Tyler Reeves. Don't forget to buy tickets for our live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rivalry: Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw — With Hank Green (Book 3, Chapter 13)
Vanessa and Casper and special guest, Hank Green, explore the theme of Rivalry in chapter thirteen of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between bullies and rivals, the delight of new babies, and why Cho Chang is a great model for competition. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How does power work within rivalry?If you want to see and hear more of Hank, you can watch him on his many youtube channels, listen to him on his podcast Dear Hank and John, and catch him at PodCon, which is on December 9th and 10th in Seattle.Next week we're reading chapter fourteen, Snape's Grudge, through the theme of imagination. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Kathy Kavanaugh. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Optimism: The Patronus (Book 3, Chapter 12)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of optimism in chapter twelve of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, Casper tells a story about climate activism, Vanessa tries to puzzle out how boggarts work, and together they take a close look at what exactly happens during a Dementor's Kiss. Throughout the episode they consider the question: why do we need permission to be optimistic? Next week we're reading chapter thirteen, Gryffindor Versus Ravenclaw, through the theme of rivalry. Tune in for a special guest story by Hank Green! Our voicemail this week is thanks to Dave Lawson. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Duty: The Firebolt — With Father Jim Martin (Book 3, Chapter 11)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of duty in chapter eleven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss Hermione's selflessness, Hagrid's traumatic experience in Azkaban, and McGonagall's harsh take-down of Trelawney at christmas dinner. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do we differentiate between obedience and duty?We are delighted to be joined this week by Father Jim Martin to discuss Jesuit spirituality and sacred imagination. He's the editor-at-large of America Magazine and author of such books as Jesus: A Pilgrimage, The Jesuit Guide to (Almost) Everything and Seven Last Words?Next week we're reading chapter twelve, The Patronus, through the theme of optimism. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Sophia Charan. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Escape: The Marauder's Map (Book 3, Chapter 10)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of escape in chapter ten of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss whether we can have sympathy for dementors, Casper's college crush, and the toxic ideas that haunt us. Throughout the episode they consider the question: After we escape something awful, what allows us to go back and help others do so as well?Next week we're reading chapter eleven, The Firebolt, through the theme of duty. Our voicemail this week is thanks to Katie Stickles-Wynen. Don't forget to buy tickets for the live tour: harrypottersacredtext.com/live-show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Frustration: Grim Defeat (Book 3, Chapter 9)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of frustration in chapter nine of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This week, they discuss latin etymology, quote Macbeth, and critique Snape's class design. They also talk about fun things like Sir Cadogan (who is rapidly becoming our favorite portrait). Throughout the episode they consider the question: When does frustration indicate injustice?Next week we're reading chapter ten, The Marauder's Map, through the theme of escape. Our donor of the week is Crookshanks and our voicemail this week is thanks to Camryn Kessler. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Desperation: Flight of the Fat Lady (Book 3, Chapter 8)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of desperation in chapter eight of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the credibility of divination, the intensity of Oliver Wood's quidditch passion, and whether Harry's need to go to Hogsmeade is silly or understandable. Throughout the episode they consider the question: How do you prevent desperation from going hand and hand with isolation?Next week we're reading chapter nine, Grim Defeat, through the theme of frustration. Our donor of the week is Mikhela Ungerleider and our voicemail this week is thanks to Sara Cochennet. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Chloe Angyal
We could only include a few minutes of Vanessa's conversation with Chloe into the main episode this week, but we wanted to share an extended cut of their interview. Hear Chloe talk more about humorous responses to internet trolls and the toll they can take. Hear Vanessa and Chloe awkwardly adore each other. You'll want to be their best friends. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Humor: The Boggart in the Wardrobe (Book 3, Chapter 7)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of humor in chapter seven of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban.They discuss the power of Satire, the absurdity of neck ties, and why Parvati is afraid of mummies. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is humor always rooted in truth? This week's story was told by the brilliant journalist Chloe Angyal. Next week we're reading chapter eight, The Flight of the Fat Lady, through the theme of desperation. Our donor of the week is Andrew Stairs and our voicemail this week is thanks to Duke Lambert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Forgiveness: Talons and Tea Leaves (Book 3, Chapter 6)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of forgiveness in chapter six of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the difference between humility and self loathing, Hagrid’s metaphorical baptism, and instances of national atonement. Throughout the episode they consider the question: Is forgiveness necessarily without punishment? Next week we're reading chapter seven, The Boggart in the Wardrobe, through the theme of humor. Our donor of the week is Hannah McGinty and our voicemail this week is thanks to Selina Mahmood. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Foresight: The Dementor (Book 3, Chapter 5)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of foresight in chapter five of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the magical properties of chocolate, Harry and Ginny's romantic potential, and whether we should try and preserve the innocence of children. Throughout the episode they consider the question: is it worth knowing the future, if you can't change it? Next week we're reading chapter six, Talons and Tea Leaves, through the theme of forgiveness. Our donor of the week is Ashleigh Gilbertson and our voicemail this week is thanks to Catherine Gilbert. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospitality: The Leaky Cauldron (Book 3, Chapter 4)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of hospitality in chapter four of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They consider the ways in which Hermione is diplomatic, do the Jewish practice of PaRDeS for the first time on their own, and grudgingly admit that maybe Percy has the right idea for once. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What's the relationship between capitalism and altruism?Next week we're reading chapter five, The Dementor, through the theme of foresight. Our donor of the week is Marilyn Pukkila and our voicemail this week is thanks to Abigail Smith. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition: Extended Conversation with Jackson Bird from the Harry Potter Alliance
We could only include a few minutes of Casper's conversation with Jackson Bird into the main episode this week, but it was so lovely that we thought it was important to share it all. So here's an extended cut! Hear Jackson talk more about the Harry Potter Alliance and his experience with publicly coming out as trans. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Secrets: The Knight Bus (Book 3, Chapter 3)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of secrets in chapter three of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss the sketchiness of Cornelius Fudge, throw some shade at Stanley Shunpike and contemplate the role of socio-economic status in the wizarding world.Next week we're reading chapter four, The Leaky Cauldron, through the theme of hospitality. Our story this week was told by our wonderful friend Jack Bird of the Harry Potter Alliance and this week's voicemail is thanks to Lyla Quinn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Family: Aunt Marge's Big Mistake (Book 3, Chapter 2)
Vanessa and Casper explore the theme of family in chapter two of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. They discuss why Vanessa loves her dog so much, the age old question of nature vs. nurture, and the muggle magic of alcohol. Throughout the episode they consider the question: What are we willing to suffer for our family?Next week we’ll be reading chapter three, The Knight Bus, through the theme of secrets. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mercy: Owl Post (Book 3, Chapter 1)
Vanessa and Casper dive into Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban with the theme of mercy. They discuss Ron's difficulty with telephones, Errol the owl, and return to the spiritual practice of Florilegia. Throughout the episode they consider the question: how much does intention matter when offering mercy? This week's voicemail is thanks to Jenn Radtke. Be sure to check out our website harrypottersacredtext.com to buy tickets for our live tour this summer! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special Edition: The Live Show
For those who couldn't make it to our live show back in January, here' s a little taste of all the fun we had! The audio quality is not ideal, but you still can get a sense for what it was like to be in the room. If all goes well, we'll be coming to a city near you soon.See you in Season three! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.