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Home > HeightsCast > Robert Greving on an Apostolate of Courtesy: Social Graces and Civilization
Podcast: HeightsCast
Episode:

Robert Greving on an Apostolate of Courtesy: Social Graces and Civilization
Category: Education
Duration: 00:49:31
Publish Date: 2026-04-23 15:53:00
Description:

Saving civilization well may begin with eye contact, a tucked shirt, a sincere apology, or a held door. For the dispositions we have toward the little things truly train our sense of human dignity.

In his new book, The Apostolate of Courtesy, middle school Latin and language arts teacher Rob Greving follows in the footsteps of St. Francis de Sales. His book offers a defense of civility for the sake of the soul, followed by a practical guide to many of life's social situations. From table manners to small talk to handling interruptions, our manner affects the temper of the world. And "when I have courtesy," Mr. Greving writes, "I am not lowering myself but raising myself to the dignity of Christ."

Chapters:

2:10 Mr. Greving's influences

5:46 Courtesy and civilization

10:53 The medium of apologetics: us!

13:56 St. Francis de Sales: the gentleman saint

19:09 Manners at home

26:05 Handling interruptions well

31:24 Parents and teachers as the example

39:28 The art of apology

42:37 Courtesy in the classroom

Links:

The Apostolate of Courtesy: How to Save Souls and Change the World through the Power of Manners by Robert Greving

Introduction to the Devout Life by Francis de Sales

Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life by C. S. Lewis

Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior by George Washington

Also on the Forum:

Manners: The Art of Happiness by Robert Greving

On Manners: The "ABCs" of Virtue featuring Colin Gleason

Enjoying Our Children and Why It's Important featuring Alvaro de Vicente

Featured Opportunities:

Parents' Conference at The Heights School (April 25, 2026)

Teaching Essentials Workshop at The Heights School (June 22-26, 2026)
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