Updated: May 13, 2025
In this episode of The Catholic Money Show, host Jonathan interviews Jason Craig, one of the authors ofThe Liturgy of the Land: A Catholic Homestead. They delve into the concept of homesteading, exploring what it entails and how it can positively impact family life and faith. The discussion covers the idea of homesteading as a conversion, the integration of work and family life, and various levels of engagement from suburban gardening to full-time homesteading. This enlightening conversation also touches on the spiritual and communal benefits of living more closely connected to the land.
Mentioned in the episode:
đ° Wallet Win’sMoney Together Couples Workshop ââ Watch on demandâ (Use CODE:valentine at checkout for 50% off!)
đThe Liturgy of the Land: A Catholic Homestead âGet the book
đŹ Stay connected with Jason CraigâJoin the Liturgy of the Land newsletter
đ ď¸ Sword & Spade âExplore Jason Craigâs work
Music in this episode is by Dylan Gardner â â â â â check out his album Almost Realâ â â â on â â â â iTunesâ â â â , â â â â Spotifyâ â â â , or wherever you listen to great music.
The Catholic Money Show recently welcomed Jason Craig, co-author of The Liturgy of the Land, for an insightful discussion on Catholic homesteading. This episode goes beyond just growing vegetables or raising livestockâit dives into the deeper spiritual and cultural implications of homesteading.
What is Catholic Homesteading?
Homesteading is not about making an income from the land but rather about domestic productionâgrowing, making, and fixing things instead of relying solely on consumption. Modern suburban life encourages consumption, whereas homesteading calls families back to their natural role as productive units. Craig explains:
“What we really want is God and others. When you ask a dad, why do you want to homestead?- I want to work with my family, right?”
Homesteading fosters a closer relationship between work, family, and faith. Instead of simply purchasing what we need, we participate in its creation, which strengthens family bonds and spiritual life.
The Modern Disconnect from Nature
Our contemporary world often isolates us from the natural order. We live in artificially controlled environments, from climate-controlled homes to fluorescent lighting, which distances us from God’s creation. Craig highlights:
“The more you’re surrounded by what man has made, then by definition, the less you’re surrounded by things God has made.”
This separation has spiritual consequences, affecting our connection to the rhythms of the land and, ultimately, to God.
The Spectrum of Homesteading
While full-time homesteading isnât feasible for everyone, Craig presents it as a spectrum. Some may tend backyard gardens, while others may embrace a more immersive rural lifestyle. The key is discernmentâfinding the level of homesteading that aligns with your family’s circumstances and vocation.
For those in urban or suburban settings, homesteading principles can still be lived out through participating in local economies, engaging in hands-on production, and fostering a mindset of creation over consumption. Craig encourages all families to take small steps toward self-sufficiency and meaningful work.
The Agrarian Conversion: A Shift in Mindset
More than learning practical skills, homesteading requires a conversionâa shift in how we think about time, work, and family life. It challenges modern convenience-driven lifestyles and calls families back to an integrated way of living where faith, family, and labor are harmonized.
Craig emphasizes that homesteading isnât about escapism or romanticizing farm life; itâs about realigning our lives with God’s design. This perspective is deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, where agrarian rhythms often mirror the Churchâs liturgical calendar.
Takeaways for Non-Homesteaders
Not everyone is called to live on a farm, but all Catholics can embrace homesteading values. Craig offers practical ways to incorporate these principles into daily life:
- Grow a small garden or herbs at home.
- Cook meals from scratch instead of relying on processed foods.
- Learn traditional skills like woodworking, sewing, or fermenting.
- Support local farmers and artisans.
- Prioritize quality family time like making music together over passive entertainment.
Highlights from the Episode:
- Understanding Homesteading: Jason explains the fundamentals of homesteading and how it differs from farming. It’s all about domestic production and connecting with the natural worldâa beautiful way to grow closer to God and family.
- Liturgy of the Land: Discover why Jason likens homesteading to a form of liturgyâa meaningful work offering that connects us with God’s creation, echoing the rhythms and seasons of the Church.
- A Journey of Conversion: Jason shares his personal story of agrarian conversion, emphasizing the transformative aspect of homesteading. It’s not just a lifestyle change but a profound conversion of heart and mind.
- Adapting to Your Surroundings: Whether youâre in a city, suburb, or countryside, Jason discusses practical ways to integrate the principles of homesteading into your daily life, emphasizing connection, community, and productivity.
Are you ready to explore homesteading further? Consider picking up a copy of “Liturgy of the Land” and learning more about integrating these timeless practices into your family life.
