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Episode 102 - Intimacy with the Bridegroom The world is a crazy place. There's always the temptation to hide, run away or to fear Love. There are distractions and lies—the lie that we cannot do it, that we may lose ourselves, that our love won't be reciprocated. But we are made to be in love. First and foremost with the Lord, Jesus the bridegroom, who comes to save, to love, and to die for us, His bride. And from this love we are called to lay down our lives and give ourselves fully for a bride or bridegroom. This Lent, we continue to work through Born of Fire by Fr. Innocent Montgomery, CFR. Order now (including digital copies) at bornoffirebook.com/ The Poco a Poco podcast happens because of many generous donors, including recurring monthly donations of any amount. Thinking about helping out? You can give at https://spiritjuice.org/supportpoco. Thank you!

Intimacy with the Bridegroom

Coronavirus Crisis: Carpe Diem Your Catholic Mind and Resilience in Crisis Episode 5:  April 3, 2020Mindset.  What is a mindset and how can I understand my mindset?  These are the questions we will be addressing in depth in this episode.  And to help us, I’m inviting in Denethor II, Steward of Gondor, in his moment of crisis.  Here you go, you Lord of the Rings fans.  In the Return of the King, the third volume of the Lord of the Rings series, Denethor is in an extremely difficult position    He is the leader of the kingdom of Gondor. And Gondor is one of the few kingdoms left standing against the evil Sauron his army of Mordor.  ·         Gondor in a strategic position to defend against Mordor.  But now the vast, powerful army of Mordor laying siege to the gates of Denethor’s castle and the situation looks very grim.·         But let’s rewind just a bit.  Who is Denethor?  And what was his mindset?Denethor is ·         Hardheaded, traditional, old-fashioned·         a grim political realist – pessimistic·         lonely – his wife has long since died·         Self-reliant -- Denethor relies on his own resources to resist the powerful evil ruler  Sauron.  .  ·         Denethor is a father of two sons.  ·         Beloved Elder son Boromir has diedo   This increasing his distance, bitterness and detachment·         secretly uses a the seeing stone – the palantir -- to gather information,·         Seeing stone or palantir is a ball of indestructible crystal, used for communication and to see events in other parts of the world, events from the past or future.  Some might describe it as a crystal ball.  ·         Denethor believed he that he could control the seeing stoneo   The seeing stone could only show him things that were true – real object or events, but o   The seeing stone is not a reliable guide to action – it’s unclear whether events shown are in the past or in the future, and it doesn’t show everything.  o   Sauron biased what the seeing stone showed Denethor, selectively choosing real events and positioning the presentation to convey a lie.  In the moment of crisis, the vast, evil horde of Mordor is arrayed outside the castle walls, and Denethor’s younger son Faramir is brought in on a stretcher – Faramir is pierced with arrows and looks like death.  In the darkness of his hopelessness, Denethor says this to Gandalf: “I have seen more than thou knowest, Grey Fool. For thy hope is but ignorance. Go then and labor in healing! Go forth and fight. Vanity. For a little while you may triumph on the field, for a day. But against the Power that rises there is no victory. To this City only the first finger of its hand has yet been stretched. All the East is moving. Even now the wind of they hope cheats thee and wafts up the Anduin a fleet of black sails. The West has failed. It is time to depart for all you would not be slaves.” Welcome to the podcast Coronavirus Crisis:  Carpe Diem where together we embrace the possibilities and opportunities for spiritual and psychological growth in this time of crisis, all grounded in a Catholic worldview.  I’m clinical psychologist Peter Malinoski with Souls and Hearts at soulsandhearts.com.  Thank you for being here with me.   This is episode 5:  Your Catholic Mind and Resilience in Crisis and it is Friday, April 3, 2020. We are one week away from Good Friday.   Mindset is one of the four pillars of resilience in crisis for Catholics, and this episode builds on the last one, in which I introduced you to the four pillars of resilience.  These four pillars are critical for you being able to not just survive, but to thrive in times of crisis like this moment we find ourselves in now.   Now we are going much more in depth on mindset.   So what is mindset?  Our mindset is the general position or attitude of our intellect. Mindset captures how we habitually apply our thinking to the situations we face.  It’s the soil in which our cognitive processes grow.  Mindset is not our thinking per se – it’s the mental attitude from which our thinking flows.   So here’s a simple example to clarify.  A person with a pessimistic and bitter mindset looks at a glass, sees it as half-empty and considers how he doesn’t really want water.  He wants iced tea.  With a twist of lemon.  He thinks about how he never gets what he wants.  A person with a providential mindset recognizes that four ounces of water is what he needs right now, and gives thanks to God for the gift of water.   You can think of mindset as filter through which we perceive our situations, other people, and ourselves.  Our mindsets can range all over in terms of the accuracy of their perceptions and the quality of the thinking they produce.   Think about it.  You’ve seen this in others, when they totally misunderstand you in a situation.  And if you’re honest with yourself, you can probably remember times when your perceptions of situations have been really misguided by your mindset.    And reminder of what we discussed in the last episode, our mindset greatly influences not only our thinking but also our behavior.   It’s much easier to act well when we have a healthy mindset  So now, back to Denethor.  Let’s discuss his mindset.  What was Denethor’s mindset?  Think about it for just a second.  Was it despair?  Well, he did move to mindset of despair but only at the very end.  Remember that mindsets can change and flux.  Denethor was in trouble with his mindset long before the host of Mordor gathered at his doorstep, long before the battered body of his son Faramir was hauled back to him in the castle.  So what was the original problem with Denethor’s mindset?  It was this:Denethor believed that he needed only to rely on himself.  He was a man of great capacity, many talents and strong will.  He pursued the good as he understood it to the limits of his strength.But was self-reliant.  He tried to carry out his mission alone and isolated.  And that mission was greater than any one man could face alone. None of us has the strength in our own will and in our own character to face our challenges without help.  Relying on our own strength is a prescription for disaster.    I empathize with Denethor – parts of me really want to be self reliant as well, want to be independent, not rely on anyone else.  That resonates with some of you as well.  So I get Denethor’s mindset, and the temptations he faced.  There was...

5 Your Catholic Mindset and Resilience in Crisis

In this bonus episode of The Catechism in a Year, Jeff Cavins joins Fr. Mike to share the connection between Scripture and Tradition, and provide the background on the origin, development, and structure of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. 

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

BONUS: Why Scripture and Tradition? (with Jeff Cavins) (2024)

Christopher West joins the show to talk about his new book "Eating the Sunrise". Get 20% off with Discount Code: EATING <a class="c-link" href="https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/pre-order-eating-the-sunrise-meditations-on-the-liturgy-and-our-hunger-for-beauty-paperback">https://shop.corproject.com/collections/books/products/pre-order-eating-the-sunrise-meditations-on-the-liturgy-and-our-hunger-for-beauty-paperback</a> Show Sponsor: <a href="https://strive21.com/matt">https://strive21.com/matt</a> Support the Show: <a href="https://mattfradd.locals.com">https://mattfradd.locals.com</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Eating the Sunrise (Christopher West) | Ep. 457

WE talk all things LENT and liturgical planning. You will love my guest for today, Kendra loves sharing her gifts and passions with other moms. Here's Kendra's bio: Hi! I'm Kendra. I'm a Catholic wife and mother of many, from little to teenaged. I also dabble in teaching, reading, writing, cooking, baking, sewing, crafting, party planning, graphic design, home remodeling, and streaming with the captions on so I can understand British. Catholic All Year is a place for me to share how we live. You can grab any other helpful links from the media kit online: <a href= "https://catholicallyear.com/media-kit/">https://catholicallyear.com/media-kit/</a> Facebook: <a href= "https://www.facebook.com/catholicallyear/">https://www.facebook.com/catholicallyear/</a> Instagram: <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/kendra_tierney/">https://www.instagram.com/kendra_tierney/</a> Youtube: <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/c/KendraTierneyCAY/videos">https://www.youtube.com/c/KendraTierneyCAY/videos</a> ____________________ Don't forget that we have made <a href= "https://www.cameronfradd.com/">https://www.cameronfradd.com/</a> the place where you can find all the things Among The Lilies! Check out our new shop with ATL merchandise, and we will be adding more items soon! Thank you all for your support. I am so grateful, and I love and am praying for y'all! Thank you for being here! If you are interested in supporting Among the Lilies (you will get access to a BUNCH of things including bonus content), please consider supporting us at <a href= "https://www.patreon.com/AmongTheLilies">https://www.patreon.com/AmongTheLilies</a> By supporting us, you will get access to a BUNCH of things, including bonus content. Please join the Among the Lilies community on Instagram and Facebook! ➡️ <a href= "https://www.facebook.com/AmongTheLiliess/">https://www.facebook.com/AmongTheLiliess/</a> ➡️ <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/among_the_lilies">https://www.instagram.com/among_the_lilies</a>

209. Preparing for LENT

In this bonus episode I discuss a whole bunch of awesome things. Liiiiike: The SEEK conference, <a href="https://seek2019.com/">Shazam!</a> Our upcoming pilgrimage to Rome, <a href="https://www.johnpaulpilgrimagesandtours.com/project/mattfradd/">Boom!</a> Summa 365, <a href="http://enroutebooksandmedia.com/summa365/">Bam!</a> The Matt Fradd Show, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClh4JeqYB1QN6f1h_bzmEng">Kapow!</a> SPONSORS EL Investments: <a href="https://www.elinvestments.net/pints">https://www.elinvestments.net/pints</a> Exodus 90: <a href="https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/">https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/</a> Hallow: <a href="http://hallow.app/mattfradd">http://hallow.app/mattfradd</a> STRIVE: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> GIVING Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd">https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd</a> This show (and all the plans we have in store) wouldn't be possible without you. I can't thank those of you who support me enough. Seriously! Thanks for essentially being a co-producer coproducer of the show. LINKS Website: <a href="https://pintswithaquinas.com/">https://pintswithaquinas.com/</a> Merch: <a href="https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd">https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd</a> FREE 21 Day Detox From Porn Course: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> SOCIAL Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd">https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/mattfradd">https://twitter.com/mattfradd</a> Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd">https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd</a> MY BOOKS Does God Exist: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9">https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9</a> Marian Consecration With Aquinas: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4">https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4</a> The Porn Myth: <a href="https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx">https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx</a> CONTACT Book me to speak: <a href="https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform">https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

BONUS | Awesome Stuff Happening, Peeps!

In this episode, I welcome back Fr. Gregory Pine. Rather than focus on a single topic, we just kick back and talk about all sorts of things, such as: - St. Thomas Aquinas' tips for memory retention. - What priests should—and should not—talk about in their homilies. - The politicization of words such as "mercy." - How to discuss heaven and hell. - Right versus wrong ways to approach tradition. <a href="https://pints.mattfradd.com/pwa-confessions-signup/">Sign up for my free course on St. Augustine's "Confessions"!</a> SPONSORS Hallow: <a href="http://hallow.app/mattfradd">http://hallow.app/mattfradd</a> STRIVE: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> GIVING Patreon or Directly: <a href="https://pintswithaquinas.com/support/">https://pintswithaquinas.com/support/ </a> This show (and all the plans we have in store) wouldn't be possible without you. I can't thank those of you who support me enough. Seriously! Thanks for essentially being a co-producer co-producer of the show. LINKS Merch: <a href="https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd">https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd</a> FREE 21 Day Detox From Porn Course: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> SOCIAL Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd">https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/mattfradd">https://twitter.com/mattfradd</a> Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd">https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd</a> Gab: <a href="https://gab.com/mattfradd">https://gab.com/mattfradd</a> Rumble: <a href="https://rumble.com/c/pintswithaquinas">https://rumble.com/c/pintswithaquinas</a> MY BOOKS Get my NEW book "<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1645851311?pf_rd_r=G1VMH792WKT544VHG4CJ&amp;pf_rd_p=5ae2c7f8-e0c6-4f35-9071-dc3240e894a8&amp;pd_rd_r=68b2ceaa-6dec-467b-8cd1-c7f8d1129a35&amp;pd_rd_w=4u4Se&amp;pd_rd_wg=w1Iui&amp;ref_=pd_gw_unk">How To Be Happy: Saint Thomas' Secret To A Good Life</a>," out now! Does God Exist: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9"> https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9</a> Marian Consecration With Aquinas: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4">https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4</a> The Porn Myth: <a href="https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx">https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx</a> CONTACT Book me to speak: <a href="https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform">https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Aquinas, Philosophy, and Stuff (Fr. Gregory Pine) | Ep. 289

In our 100th episode, we celebrate by going inside in an experiential exercise.  Recorded before a live audience, Dr. Peter guides you through an experiential exercise to help you connect with parts of you that resist God's love.  We create a space where you can much more deeply understand the negative, distorted God images that some of your parts may have -- mistaken ways they see God, and how those misunderstandings came about.  With gentleness, kindness, and love for your parts, your parts might be ready for your innermost self to be a bridge between them and God and Mother Mary.  Come join us on an adventure inside, where we work to overcome the human formation obstacles to embracing God's love for us.  At the end, audience participants share their experiences with Dr. Peter and he answers questions.

100 Embracing God's Love for Me: Experiential Exercise

Opening Credits

Relics from the Crucifixion

The Origin of the Wood of the Cross

The Finding of the Cross

The Recovery of the Cross

The Crusades

Literature on the Cross

The Superscription

The Nails

The Crown of Thorns

The Holy Lance

The Holy Blood

The Volto Santo

The Robe

The Holy Shroud

Biographical Note

End Credits

Charles Wall’s captivating 1910 account uncovers the riveting history of the relics of Christ’s Passion. From St. Helena’s miraculous discovery of the True Cross to the hidden nails, the Crown of Thorns, the spear of Longinus, and the veil of Veronica, each relic’s survival defies centuries of efforts to erase them. These pages reveal how providence, courage, and faith preserved these holy treasures that continue to draw souls closer to the mystery of Christ’s sacrifice.

Homily from the Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. The Father has uttered His declaration; we are offered the chance to answer. All of Christianity comes down to one question: does God have permission to love you?<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from July 07, 2019:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Isaiah 66:10-14</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalms 66:1-3, 4-5, 6-7, 16, 20</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Galatians 6:14-18</dt> Luke 10:1-12, 17-20

07/07/19 Declaration

Peace is not simply an absence of war. Fr. Mike breaks down the Catechism’s teachings about peace as the &quot;work of justice and the effect of charity.” We learn that to cultivate true peace, we must do more than avoid anger, hatred, and harm to our neighbor; we must actively work toward becoming agents of peace. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2302-2306.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 301: Peace (2024)

Welcome to season 18 kickoff with our annual tradition of the Word of the Year episode! Each year, we ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share what our words for 2026 mean to us and chat about the Saints journeying with us this year. We are excited to be back and look forward to what this year will bring! Heather's One Thing - <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Big-GOD-little-devil-Deliverance-ebook/dp/B0FHKZNK88/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JT7ZA6ILMQLV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.usy5g7baUq41KKiNRPckoVtxzClXrrLCpJRJzRveZLC-QJHDYJXnEVGTbNkaai84XwDqaSf8Ibo9k1aY4us1F_CjCs0551AKgm8opKUuCCMDvoyf5Vt4E6wQg35z407R65JLw7d_ZVXlGzAn3Zbkc-bqncdmXaHei4zOa6qMQuIDAxNw9NO-b-aG5hloV96kTgZ-Vz-uVjkFmLnM7vwbpXVHWLczzacc38uJZiYPUJw.feZYolv7hXfKkkJl8O-oEB8GWKHjtjmpmOfEH3jcCDY&dib_tag=se&keywords=big+god+little+devil+book&qid=1768420518&sprefix=big+god+little%2Caps%2C156&sr=8-1"> Big God, Little Devil</a> by Dr. Sean Tobin (<a href= "https://www.restoretheglorypodcast.com/episodes/146">listen to Dr. Sean on the Restore the Glory Podcast</a> too!) Heather's Other One Thing - <a href= "https://open.spotify.com/track/3Vh0J89Ast5y4SlUsUnK7A?si=20948b2c6c17405d"> Let There Be</a> by Amanda Cook Sister Miriam's One Thing - <a href= "https://www.avemariapress.com/products/friendship-in-the-lord?srsltid=AfmBOorzk2XhXm0UBo6mfZyQXgRZKKYO-hLqgXjwe62Xb_Jq9-jH32j6"> Friendship in the Lord</a> by Fr. Paul Hinnebusch, OP (<a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Friendship-Lord-Spiritual-Paul-Hinnebusch/dp/0870613286/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1QOBC4E3YHX6Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KjWmJ6qpbNSyOJVq4rc5pQnpTYFSQBRUxkqoLEF1j8XFacnFirBFe5eeUm2lBgJuFr0JZztmkonUwwpXV3M-jEEaN82lq7ZvV8OcyGVV_ArlH-5IyDc4qGoUyZMNfMRolU2IfV9UsBGz6NHIwRfP5_HeTKnfHiKthOcAYsMjlB5rY7aFXHFD-DOyTxwG8Y4eUwcMv3hGE7l12E9t01_j7YvxEcdGswqvJhmqBW1hXoY.9hqntHTRguzB1Diy5J6GThtQ9ew_VK4sjLrQZvoVI-0&dib_tag=se&keywords=friendship+in+the+lord&qid=1768420600&sprefix=friendship+in+the+lord%2Caps%2C183&sr=8-1">buy on Amazon here</a>) Michelle's One Thing - <a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Theo-Golden-Allen-Levi/dp/B0CFK77BVV">Theo of Golden</a> by Allen Levi Other Resources Mentioned: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://empressofdirt.net/plant-grafting/">Example of Grafting</a> </li> </ul> Announcement: Our 2026 Lenten book study will be "<a href="https://scepterpublishers.org/abide">The Way of Trust and Love</a>" by Fr. Jacques Philippe. Scepter Publishers has offered 15% off with the code ABIDE15. They also offer an <a href= "https://scepterpublishers.org/abide">ebook version</a> as well. We will announce more information about the study in the coming weeks! Journal Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What was my word for 2025? How did the Lord work in and through me with that word?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What is my word for 2026?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How does my heart sit with the word revealed to me?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How is the Lord inviting me into deeper love & intimacy in this new year?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What is the Lord asking me to delight in?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Has the Lord entrusted a particular saint to journey with you this year?</li> </ul> Discussion Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Reflect on and share about your word for 2025 and the graces you encountered through that word.</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What images, phrases, artwork, or Scripture verses have been on your mind when praying about your word of the year?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What is your word for 2026? How did the Lord reveal it to you?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Do you feel surprised, apprehensive, or delighted by your word for 2026? How can you hold onto hope this year?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What is the Lord asking you to grow in?</li> </ul> Quotes to Ponder: "For last year's words belong to last year's language, and next year's words await another voice." (T.S. Eliot, "Little Gidding") "Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love." (St. Elizabeth of the Trinity) Scripture for Lectio: "Yet those who wait for the Lord will gain new strength; They will mount up with wings like eagles, They will run and not get tired, They will walk and not become weary." (Isaiah 40:31) Sponsor - CORDA: CORDA translates the stories of the saints into scents, and helps you create a place of prayer and peace in your home with their handcrafted Catholic candles. Backed by 3,500+ 5-star reviews, CORDA candles have a beautiful modern design, are made with great ingredients like clean coconut wax and phthalate-free fragrances, and have an awesome burn time of 45 hours! Plus, there's CORDA Rewards: earn points with every purchase that you can redeem for free products, gift cards, and free shipping. You should also check out their special wedding favors, bulk order discounts for nonprofits and businesses, and their super easy Catholic fundraisers! Learn more and explore all of CORDA's handcrafted Catholic candles at <a href= "http://cordacandles.com/abiding">cordacandles.com/abiding</a> Timestamps: 00:00 CORDA 01:38 Intro 02:25 Lent Announcement 03:10 Welcome 06:43 Scripture Verse and Quote to Ponder 08:24 Sister Miriam's Word of the Year 12:28 Heather's Word of the Year 17:16 Michelle's Word of the Year 25:13 Being Honest with Ourselves and with God 29:20 Our Saints of the Year 33:18 What if I don't have a Word of the Year? 34:26 One Things

S18 E1 - Word of the Year

Bishop Athanasius Schneider examines over 130 doctrinal errors throughout Church history, tracing their origins and influence on the faithful. Drawing from his experience growing up among persecuted Catholics in the Soviet Union, he explains what heresy is, why God allows it, and how it harms souls. With historical insight and theological clarity, he equips Catholics to discern truth, resist error, and uphold the faith.

Flee From Heresy | eBook

Spoiler: Fr. Mike thinks the music is great. But other than that... there are some major problems here.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

Fr. Mike Schmitz Reviews "Wicked"

What is the significance of praying to the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit? As we explore the path of prayer, the Catechism elaborates on the concept of trinitarian prayer and underscores the importance of establishing a relationship with each member of the Holy Trinity. Fr. Mike emphasizes that Christ is the focal point of Christian prayer, and he underscores the profound power of invoking the name of Jesus, as it represents his very presence. Today&#39;s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2663-2672.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 342: Trinitarian Prayer (2024)

We begin exploring the third commandment and learn about rest and worship concerning the Lord’s Day. The Catechism points out that God models what he wants for us as he also rested on the seventh day. Fr. Mike explains the importance of prioritizing rest for ourselves because we are free and no longer enslaved people. The Catechism describes how we are to keep the Lord’s Day holy with “outward, visible, public, and regular worship ‘as a sign of his universal beneficence to all.’” Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2168-2176. 

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 281: Keep Holy the Lord’s Day (2025)

Exodus90: <a href="https://exodus90.com/matt">https://exodus90.com/matt</a> Hallow (Free Trial): <a href="https://hallow.com/mattfradd">https://hallow.com/mattfradd</a> Samuel's Company, Frassati: <a href="https://www.thefrassaticompany.com/">https://www.thefrassaticompany.com/</a> Upcoming Men's Conference on Leadership (Registration is FREE): <a href="https://go.virtualcatholicconference.com/2022Mens?r_done=1">https://go.virtualcatholicconference.com/2022Mens?r_done=1</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

Navy SEAL Officer, Samuel Blair | Ep. 339

We continue the section on moral law, specifically focusing on the Old Law. Fr. Mike emphasizes that the Old Law is the first stage of Revealed Law. He also unpacks how the Old Law acts as preparation for the Gospel. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1961-1964.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 257: The Old Law

The angels belong to Christ as they were made through him and for him, and he has made them messengers of his saving plan. We learn that angels have been present throughout the history of salvation, and the life of Christ is surrounded by the adoration and service of angels. Fr. Mike explains how in the liturgy, we join the angels in praising God, and all of human life is surrounded by angels’ care and protection. He reminds us that all angels and saints have the power to intercede for us before God. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 331-336.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 47: The Angels (2025)

In this week's episode, we continue our discussion on communion and focus on the practical aspects of living out in community. We reflect on the four main pillars of building a community: intentionality, vulnerability, proximity, and organically. We also talk about community as a journey and that we learn to love others by experiencing the love of God ourselves. This experience brings communion within us, which bears fruit, and then we are then able to give that love away to others. Heather's One Thing - <a href= "https://www.renewreligious.org/">Friends of the Bridegroom</a> Sister Miriam's One Thing - <a href= "https://sophie006liu.github.io/vegetal/">What Vegetable are You?</a> Quiz Michelle's One Thing - <a href= "https://monkmanual.com/">Monk Manual</a> Announcement: Check out our new <a href= "https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/small-group-resources">Small Group Resource</a> page! Journal Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How can I express more mercy and curiosity within my community?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Who in my local community can I extend an invitation to?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Is there variety in my family's community (vocations, ages, stages of life, etc)?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">For those not currently in an Abiding Together small group: Consider praying about starting an Abiding Together small group or study group. What fears or concerns do I have about starting a group?</li> </ul> Discussion Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">When do you feel more tempted to speak out harshly instead of conversing gently with those you're in conflict with?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What repeating strains and roadblocks have you observed in your relationships over the years? What do you think God may be teaching you through those strains?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Throughout the episode, we covered four different aspects of community (intentionality, vulnerability, proximity, and organic engagement). Which of these aspects is hardest for you within your relationships?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How can you initiate moments of organic community in your current season? Set a goal for yourself this week and check back in with each next time you connect.</li> </ul> Quotes to Ponder: "God is love and in himself he lives a mystery of personal loving communion. Creating the human race in his own image .... God inscribed in the humanity of man and woman the vocation, and thus the capacity and responsibility, of love and communion." (CCC 2331) "The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community, but the person who loves those around them will create community." (Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together: The Classic Exploration of Christian Community) Scripture for Lectio: "And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common; and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved." (Acts 2:43-47) Sponsor - Nazareth Organics: Nazareth Organics (@nazarethorganics) is a Catholic family-owned natural skincare company that handcrafts balms with high quality, wild-crafted, and organic ingredients from nature. From facial moisturizers and serums to diaper creams and body butters, Nazareth Organics carries nourishing natural products for a wide array of skin conditions. They use grass-fed tallow from a local Catholic farm as a base for many of their balms, because it is rich in fat-soluble vitamins and fatty acids that can increase collagen production, strengthen the skin, and calm inflammation. The best thing about this business is that it's dedicated to the Holy Family of Nazareth. From website to packaging, every sustainably sourced product points back to the faith and the ultimate source of creation. They also donate a portion of all proceeds to Catholic charitable organizations. If you want to honor and care for your body using pure and natural ingredients straight from God's hands, then check out Nazareth Organics. Find them at nazareth-organics.com and use code ABIDE10 at checkout for a 10% discount. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook at: @nazarethorganics. Timestamps: 00:00 - Nazareth Organics 01:31 - Intro 02:23 - Welcome and Recap 03:23 - Judgement vs Curiosity 06:36 - Bearing Fruit in Community 08:43 - Jesus as a Model of Community 11:05 - Aspects of Community 18:28 - Good Community Takes Time to Build 19:17 - Abiding Together Small Group Resources 22:22 - One Things

S15 E6 - Practical Aspects of Living Out Community

Episode 64 - The Art of Sacrifice To sacrifice is to make holy. Most of us are given enough suffering in this world that if we were to offer it fully and freely to the Lord, that would be enough. We need only to accept—well—the penances that life gives us. Any additional sacrifices—ones that we choose—should be chosen carefully; intentionally, and after checking in with someone else, and always looking toward freedom. We sacrifice to seek always greater freedom to be totally given again to the Lord. Get your copy of Habits for Holiness (by Fr Mark-Mary Ames, CFR!) at <a href= "https://ascensionpress.com/habits">https://ascensionpress.com/habits</a> The Poco a Poco podcast happens because of generous donors like you. You can give at <a href="https://spiritjuice.org/supportpoco">https://spiritjuice.org/supportpoco</a>. Thank you!

The Art of Sacrifice

Matt and I discuss everything from making out in an Irish pub, to getting my nose pierced to why we need authentic friends and what that even means. :)

07: Authentic friendship, authentic community, with Matt Fradd

Fr. Mike Schmitz explains why a Christian marriage has to be inside a church. With the marriage vows we aren’t just committing ourselves to our spouse. We are also saying in a very specific way that we will follow Christ. Marriage is inherently connected to Christianity, and it’s not just about us. It’s also about the church community to which we belong.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

Outdoor Weddings

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the wounds to the unity of Christ’s one, holy, Catholic, and apostolic Church. The Catechism emphasizes that people on both sides of this division are to blame for this broken unity. God did not intend for the disunity of Chrstians that we see today, but rather, intended for the unity of all Christians. Fr. Mike, therefore, concludes with asking us to pray and hope for the miracle of the unity, once again, of all Christians. Today’s readings from the Catechism are paragraphs 817-822.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 115: Wounds to Unity (2025)

Hey all, today I chat with my mate, Fr.Chris Pietraszko about divine simplicity. This is fun one! Show notes <a href="http://pintswithaquinas.com/podcast/what-is-divine-simplicity/">here</a>. --- SPONSORS EL Investments: <a href="https://www.elinvestments.net/pints">https://www.elinvestments.net/pints</a> Exodus 90: <a href="https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/">https://exodus90.com/mattfradd/</a> Hallow: <a href="http://hallow.app/mattfradd">http://hallow.app/mattfradd</a> STRIVE: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> GIVING Patreon: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd">https://www.patreon.com/mattfradd</a> This show (and all the plans we have in store) wouldn't be possible without you. I can't thank those of you who support me enough. Seriously! Thanks for essentially being a co-producer coproducer of the show. LINKS Website: <a href="https://pintswithaquinas.com/">https://pintswithaquinas.com/</a> Merch: <a href="https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd">https://teespring.com/stores/matt-fradd</a> FREE 21 Day Detox From Porn Course: <a href="https://www.strive21.com/">https://www.strive21.com/</a> SOCIAL Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd">https://www.facebook.com/mattfradd</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/mattfradd">https://twitter.com/mattfradd</a> Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd">https://www.instagram.com/mattfradd</a> MY BOOKS Does God Exist: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9">https://www.amazon.com/Does-God-Exist-Socratic-Dialogue-ebook/dp/B081ZGYJW3/ref=sr_1_9?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586377974&amp;sr=8-9</a> Marian Consecration With Aquinas: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4">https://www.amazon.com/Marian-Consecration-Aquinas-Growing-Closer-ebook/dp/B083XRQMTF/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&amp;keywords=fradd&amp;qid=1586379026&amp;sr=8-4</a> The Porn Myth: <a href="https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx">https://www.ignatius.com/The-Porn-Myth-P1985.aspx</a> CONTACT Book me to speak: <a href="https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform">https://www.mattfradd.com/speakerrequestform</a> Learn more about your ad choices. Visit <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a>

96. What is divine simplicity? With Fr. Chris Pietraszko

Day 47: The Angels (2026)

Episode 86 - Our Father is Faithful (Advent 2021) Third Week of Advent As a people and a Church, we have a common patrimony and inheritance of promises kept. Over time, salvation history involves real people and real stories—God breaks into history. Think Elizabeth and Zachariah. Simeon. Anna. We are part of this story, living in salvation history. We must remember that God has been faithful to us, and use that memory to stay. God can't fulfill his promises to us if we leave. The saints we look to had their own struggles and their own trials, and the Lord was faithful to them. It was a faithfulness that satisfied something in their own lives, but there's also a way in which it bore fruit such that we're recipients of the fruitfulness of these people. There might be something that the Lord's doing in our lives that is also going to be fruitful for other people we meet. Other people will inherit this. We're going through Advent with Finding Your Place in the Advent Story from Ascension Press for the next few episodes. Check it out here: https://ascensionpress.com/collections/rejoice-finding-your-place-in-the-advent-story The Poco a Poco podcast happens because of generous donors like you. Monthly donations are particularly helpful for our future planning. You can give at https://spiritjuice.org/supportpoco. Thank you!

Our Father is Faithful (Advent 2021)

This lecture was given on February 9th, 2024, at St. Joseph's in Greenwich Village. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events About the speaker: Brad S. Gregory is Professor of History and Dorothy G. Griffin Collegiate Chair at the University of Notre Dame, where he has taught since 2003, and where he is also the Director of the Notre Dame Institute for Advanced Study. From 1996-2003 he taught at Stanford University, where he received early tenure in 2001. He specializes in the history of Christianity in Europe during the Reformation era and on the long-term influence of the Reformation era on the modern world. He has given invited lectures at many of the most prestigious universities in North America, as well as in England, Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Finland, Norway, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Israel, Taiwan, Australia, and New Zealand. Before teaching at Stanford, he earned his Ph.D. in history at Princeton University and was a Junior Fellow in the Harvard Society of Fellows; he also has two degrees in philosophy from the Catholic University of Louvain, Belgium. His first book, Salvation at Stake: Christian Martyrdom in Early Modern Europe (Harvard, 1999) received six book awards. Professor Gregory was the recipient of two teaching awards at Stanford and has received three more at Notre Dame. In 2005, he was named the inaugural winner of the first annual Hiett Prize in the Humanities, a $50,000 award from the Dallas Institute of Humanities and Culture given to the outstanding midcareer humanities scholar in the United States. His most recent book is entitled The Unintended Reformation: How a Religious Revolution Secularized Society (Belknap, 2012), which received two book awards. His forthcoming book is entitled Rebel in the Ranks: Martin Luther, the Reformation, and the Conflicts that Continue to Shape Our World (Harper, 2017).

The Unintended Reformation | Prof. Brad Gregory

Together, with Fr. Mike, we examine the question of when the liturgy is celebrated. The Catechism states that there is a word that marks Christian prayer, and that word is “today.” Fr. Mike emphasizes that our liturgy and worship happens “today,” not in the past and not in the future, but right now in this present moment. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 1163-1167.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 159: When the Liturgy Is Celebrated (2024)

Prof. Joseph Capizzi presents the just war account within the Catholic tradition, arguing that the use of force in war can be a moral act of peacemaking grounded in pursuit of the common good, and emphasizing the importance of authority, intention, cause, proportionality, and distinction between guilt and innocence. This lecture was given on April 11th, 2025, at The Ohio State University. Secular campuses are being transformed, but the students need your help! Your gift before September fifteenth can launch a new TI chapter and change lives. Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/bts25podcast" target="_blank" style="color: blue;">thomisticinstitute.org/bts25podcast</a>&nbsp;to give today! For more information on upcoming events, visit us at <a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events" target="_blank">thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events</a>. About the Speakers: Joseph E. Capizzi is Dean of Theology at the Catholic University of America. He teaches in the areas of social and political theology, with special interests in issues in peace and war, citizenship, political authority, and Augustinian theology. He has written, lectured, and published widely on just war theory, bioethics, the history of moral theology, and political liberalism. Keywords: Anabaptism, Aristotelianism, Augustine of Hippo, Christian Pacifism, Common Good, Ethics of War, Francisco de Vitoria, Guilt and Innocence Distinction, Natural Law, Schleitheim Confession

Just War Theory I Prof. Joseph Capizzi

Homily from the Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Death is unavoidable. We will all lose everything. We will all lose everything...even to the point of our very lives. Rather than avoid death, we can practice dying by actively giving away our claims to our materials, time, and our abilities.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from November 7th, 2021:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> 1 Kings 17:10-16</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalms 146:7-10</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Hebrews 9:24-28</dt> Mark 12:38-44

11/07/21 Learning to Lose: Practice Dying

Resources: <ul type="disc"> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://sophiainstitute.com/product/finding-peace-in-the-storm/">Finding Peace in the Storm</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://sophiainstitute.com/product/searching-for-and-maintaining-peace/"> Searching for and Maintaining Peace</a> - Fr. Jacques Philippe</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://www.amazon.com/Sacrament-Present-Moment-Jean-Pierre-Caussade/dp/0060618116"> The Sacrament of the Present Moment</a> - Jean-Pierre de Caussade</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://stpaulmemphis.com/product/into-the-deep/">Into the Deep</a> – Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-contemplative-rosary"> The Contemplative Rosary</a> - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://onelink.to/92tyk4">The Contemplative Rosary App</a> (phones and tablets only)</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness</a> - Susan Brinkmann OCDS</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://avila-institute.org/events/">Avila-Institute.org/events</a> - website</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://avila-institute.org/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> – online</li> </ul>

Finding Peace in the Storm Part 11: Final Thoughts

Theodore Maynard's biography chronicles the life of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first American saint. It details her founding of the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and her efforts to establish health, education, and care centers across continents. The book delves into her mystical vocation, encounters with the miraculous, and tireless devotion to the Eucharistic Heart of Jesus. Through her letters and diary entries, readers gain insight into her resilience in the face of rejection, discrimination, and persecution. This work serves as a testament to her unwavering faith and enduring legacy.

The World Is Too Small | eBook

Catholic thought leader, human formation specialist, and podcaster Jake Khym has more than 20 years of experience in a wide variety of ministry settings and he joins me in this episode to discuss integrated personal formation.  In this episode, we focus on these major themes: 1) your heart; 2) your identity as a beloved little son or daughter of God; 3) the integration of formation within the heart; 4) love as the gift of oneself; 5) change vs. growth vs. flourishing; 6) the importance of emotions; 7) how good formation requires relationship; 8) getting into the messy business of your own personal formation; and 9) Jake’s top resources for personal formation.

138 Personal Formation with Jake Khym: Restore the Glory and Life Restoration

In this week's episode, Father Sean and Father John continue their discussion of Fr. John's new book, To Heights and Unto Depths, with Father Sean sharing more about his personal experience on the trail.

To Heights and Unto Depths, Part 2

Resources: <ul type="disc"> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://sophiainstitute.com/product/divine-intimacy/">Divine Intimacy</a> - Fr. Gabriel of St. Mary Magdalen</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://sophiainstitute.com/product/finding-peace-in-the-storm/">Finding Peace in the Storm</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://stpaulmemphis.com/product/into-the-deep/">Into the Deep</a> – Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-contemplative-rosary"> The Contemplative Rosary</a> - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://onelink.to/92tyk4">The Contemplative Rosary App</a> (phones and tablets only)</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness</a> - Susan Brinkmann OCDS</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://avila-institute.org/events/">Avila-Institute.org/events</a> - website</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://avila-institute.org/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> – online</li> </ul>

How to See God

There is a solidarity among all of God’s creatures because all are oriented to give glory to God. We learn that God created the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, sanctifying it and blessing it. Fr. Mike tells us that all creatures were made with a view to the Sabbath, created for the worship and adoration of God. We are all called to the sacred task of worshiping God and nothing else should take precedence over it. We end with an “In Brief” review of all we have learned in recent sessions about the physical world, the spiritual world, angels, and creation. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 344-354.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 49: We Are Created For Worship (2026)

Dedication

Opening Psalm

Disclaimer

Foreword

Preface

Introduction

Original Trauma

The Wounded Heart

The Inmost Self

Opening Our Eyes

The Evil I Do Not Want

The Unending Melody

The Closed Heart

Spiritual Confidants

The Inner Kingdom

The Fearful Heart

Unburdening

Inner Harmony

Epilogue

Appendices

Acknowledgments

About the Author

Closing Credits

Dr. Gerry Crete integrates advanced trauma-based therapy with Christian traditions to guide readers toward inner healing. Through real-life stories, psychological insights, and scriptural reflections, he presents a "parts work" approach to address anxiety and past wounds. The book includes three litanies—of the Closed, Wounded, and Fearful Heart—designed to connect one's inner self with God's love and mercy, fostering a deeper relationship with God and personal restoration.

Litanies of the Heart

Welcome to The Saint of the Day Podcast, a service of Good Catholic and The Catholic Company.Today&apos;s featured saint is St. Simeon Stylites the Younger.If you like what you heard, share this podcast with someone you know, and make sure to subscribe!🔔Subscribe to Our Channel: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVNrdEJMWl9MMHluX2FYOVExYktxa0xGdGp1d3xBQ3Jtc0tsSmFkN2pqNWFkQkI3NVFFeGZYTno0cmp6b1hJVVI3cW5IbmZ4aWN1Y0FLRUJsWUItZGRJSTRPUW13YWtnQVJLbzBUS041TzlveF9Ec3lwSDd4RWgwaFg3VTJQc2Eyc3lXTkF1WWoyM0MyenV2MTdzbw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3sX4exh&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3sX4exh</a>✅ Visit Good Catholic for more great content: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0RyRnFzSEt0VWptYWlSNTJDR0ZPRDNqZnJiQXxBQ3Jtc0trSG1IR2dtaEduSHB2RGVtQVQ4VFJvNnpPY3NVZ19fcURMa21SdzRHSWlnMWljb3pBNmdSNkV0UDNGblJ3ZmY3WFBoNHh5Z2drSkg1V2puaHhJTkVKcjc5WEN6cHhOTllHOTdCdmlMV2dfcWxwdkxJZw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3rMqLKI&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3rMqLKI</a>

5/24 - St. Simeon Stylites the Younger

Sometimes we have to do stuff when we don’t feel like it, but finding the motivation to do those things is really difficult in the moment. That’s when it’s important to keep in mind that motivation is not about just feeling good about doing something. It’s about having a motive. If something is the right thing to do, it doesn’t matter if I feel like doing it or not, Fr. Mike says. The only motivation you need is the motivation to do the right thing.

Fr. Mike’s friend Dean once told him this, “Emotions do not reveal the truth about reality, but they do reveal the conditions of your heart.” 

St. Ignatius of Loyola encouraged his followers to pay attention to their heart, because it’s revealing something very important that needs to be taken into account. Nonetheless, regardless of what your heart is telling you, the question to ask yourself is not “do I feel like doing this right now?” Rather, ask yourself, “Is this the right thing to do.”<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

When You Don't Feel Like It

Prof. Patrick Callahan explores the living tradition of Catholic culture, using Tolkien’s life and imagination to demonstrate how the Mass, community, and cultivation of virtue form a unified Christian identity resilient amidst modern challenges. This lecture was given on January 18th, 2024, at University of Washington. Will you hand on the Faith to those who need it the most? Give by October 31st to film the next season of Aquinas 101!&nbsp;<a href="https://aquinas101.thomisticinstitute.org/oct25podcast" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 85, 204);">https://aquinas101.thomisticinstitute.org/oct25podcast</a> For more information on upcoming events, visit us at <a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events" target="_blank">thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events</a>. About the Speakers: Prof. Patrick Callahan is director of the Newman Institute for Catholic Thought &amp; Culture as well as Assistant Professor of English and Humanities at St. Gregory the Great Seminary. There he directs and teaches in a Great Books Catholic program for students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and other regional colleges. He did his undergraduate work at the University of Dallas and his graduate work at Fordham University in Classics. He lives in Lincoln, NE with his wife and 5 children. Keywords: Catholic Culture, Community Tradition, Cultural Standardization, Evelyn Waugh, Incarnational Liturgy, Intellectual Virtue, Justice And Temperance, Letters Of Tolkien, Mustard Seed Metaphor, Sacramental Imagination

Catholic Culture with Tolkien – Prof. Patrick Callahan

We continue our examination of the first commandment, unpacking irreligion and atheism. Fr. Mike highlights the different elements of irreligion, namely tempting God in words or deeds, sacrilege, and simony. He emphasizes that the sin of tempting God is easy to fall into when we are deeply troubled or afraid. Fr. Mike also spends time unpacking the many different aspects of atheism, and its impact on our world today. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2118-2126. 

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 276: Irreligion and Atheism (2025)

🎙️ New Episode Drop! "Freedom in Imperfection" ✨ I had the best conversation with my dear friend on this episode—raw, real, and full of truth. We've been close friends since we were late teens. She is one of my dearewst Soul Sisters. We dove deep into what it means to find freedom in our flaws, the beauty of learning from our mistakes, and how our Love Languages shape the way we give and receive not just love, but truth too. 🧠💛 This one is for anyone who's ever felt like they had to have it all together to be worthy. Spoiler alert: You don't. So grateful for this chat. So excited to share it with you. 🎧 Tune in wherever you get your podcasts. #FreedomInImperfection #PodcastEpisode #RealTalk #GrowthMindset #LoveLanguages #LearningOutLoud

Freedom in the Imperfect

Welcome to The Saint of the Day Podcast, a service of <a href='https://www.goodcatholic.com/'>Good Catholic</a> and <a href='http://thecatholiccompany.com/'>The Catholic Company</a>.   Today&apos;s featured saint is St. Tarcisius.   If you like what you heard, share this podcast with someone you know, and make sure to subscribe!🔔Subscribe to Our Channel: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVNrdEJMWl9MMHluX2FYOVExYktxa0xGdGp1d3xBQ3Jtc0tsSmFkN2pqNWFkQkI3NVFFeGZYTno0cmp6b1hJVVI3cW5IbmZ4aWN1Y0FLRUJsWUItZGRJSTRPUW13YWtnQVJLbzBUS041TzlveF9Ec3lwSDd4RWgwaFg3VTJQc2Eyc3lXTkF1WWoyM0MyenV2MTdzbw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3sX4exh&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3sX4exh</a>✅ Visit Good Catholic for more great content:

8/15 - St. Tarcisius

Welcome to The Saint of the Day Podcast, a service of <a href='https://www.goodcatholic.com/'>Good Catholic</a> and <a href='http://thecatholiccompany.com/'>The Catholic Company</a>.Today&apos;s featured saint is St. Anthony of Padua.If you like what you heard, share this podcast with someone you know, and make sure to subscribe!🔔Subscribe to Our Channel: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVNrdEJMWl9MMHluX2FYOVExYktxa0xGdGp1d3xBQ3Jtc0tsSmFkN2pqNWFkQkI3NVFFeGZYTno0cmp6b1hJVVI3cW5IbmZ4aWN1Y0FLRUJsWUItZGRJSTRPUW13YWtnQVJLbzBUS041TzlveF9Ec3lwSDd4RWgwaFg3VTJQc2Eyc3lXTkF1WWoyM0MyenV2MTdzbw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3sX4exh&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3sX4exh</a>✅ Visit Good Catholic for more great content: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqa0RyRnFzSEt0VWptYWlSNTJDR0ZPRDNqZnJiQXxBQ3Jtc0trSG1IR2dtaEduSHB2RGVtQVQ4VFJvNnpPY3NVZ19fcURMa21SdzRHSWlnMWljb3pBNmdSNkV0UDNGblJ3ZmY3WFBoNHh5Z2drSkg1V2puaHhJTkVKcjc5WEN6cHhOTllHOTdCdmlMV2dfcWxwdkxJZw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3rMqLKI&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3rMqLKI</a>

6/13 -St. Anthony of Padua

Do you find that you give others too much influence over your mood and emotions? Do you find yourself caught in a cycle of judging all your choices based on what others think about that decision? 

Today, Fr. Mike reflects on the role of positive and negative influences in our lives and how to discern if we are giving others too much power over our lives.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

Who Is Influencing You? And Why?

Homily from the Epiphany of the Lord. We give God our best, our heart, and what He has asked for. As we know, the heart of religion is worship. But we need to put our hearts into worship. We give God our best, our heart, and what God has asked for. Not because He needs anything, but because it is right and just.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from January 7, 2024:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Isaiah 60:1-6</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalms 72:1-2, 7-8, 10-13</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6</dt> Matthew 2:1-12

01/07/24 Worship is the Only Proper Response

The Catechism introduces the seven sacraments that Christ offers the Church: Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony. The Catechism highlights the fact that the sacraments are “by the Church” because the Church is “Christ’s action at work”, and they are “for the Church” because they “manifest and communicate to men…the mystery of communion with the God who is love.” Fr. Mike focuses on the fact that while ministerial priests administer many of the sacraments, their priesthood is at the service of the baptismal priesthood, into which all of the baptized are ordained. Today’s readings are from Catechism paragraphs 1113-1121.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 151: The Seven Sacraments (2025)

In this week's episode, we look back over the past year and remember both the joyful and sorrowful moments in our lives. We discuss the importance of regularly bringing our attention to what God is doing in our lives and reflecting on the opportunities we have to deepen our surrender to God's provision. Today, join us in reflecting on your recent faith journey to discover the beautiful ways God has been shaping your soul through your own joyful and sorrowful mysteries. Joyful - an area of delight or gratitude where you have felt the tangible presence of the Lord Sorrowful - a hurt or an obstacle we've noticed Heather's One Thing - Big Apple Catholic's new <a href= "https://www.bigapplecatholic.com/the-shop">shop</a>! Especially the <a href= "https://www.bigapplecatholic.com/the-shop/p/fiat-mihi">Holy Spirit crew neck</a> Sister Miriam's One Thing - A quote from St. Catherine of Siena "He will provide the way and the means, such as you could never have imagined. Leave it all to Him, let go of yourself, lose yourself on the Cross, and you will find yourself entirely." Michelle's One Thing - <a href= "https://lifeteen.com/camps/summer-camp/">LifeTeen Summer Camp</a> and <a href="https://www.kahdalea.com/">Camp Chosatonga</a> Other Resources Mentioned: <ul> <li dir="ltr" aria-level="1"> <a href= "https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/women-doctors-of-the-church"> The Women Doctors of the Church</a> Podcast Series </li> </ul> Announcement: New Abiding Together merch is coming soon! <a href= "https://www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/subscribe">Subscribe</a> to our weekly email newsletter to receive updates. Journal Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What were the joyful mysteries (delights, tangible gratitude) of my summer?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How are you waiting on the Lord's Providence?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What were the sorrowful mysteries (hurts, obstacles) of my summer?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Where in my life do I believe that if "it feels bad, it is bad?"</li> </ul> Discussion Questions: <ul> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Who walked with you throughout this summer?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">How have you tangibly experienced Christ's presence in the midst of sorrow?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">Where have you experienced healing from the Lord this summer?</li> <li dir="ltr" role="presentation">What changes are you sensing (internally or externally) with the start of fall?</li> </ul> Quote to Ponder: "Looking at Mary, how can we, her children, fail to let the aspiration to beauty, goodness and purity of heart be aroused in us? Her heavenly candor draws us to God, helping us to overcome the temptation to live a mediocre life composed of compromises with evil, and directs us decisively towards the authentic good that is the source of joy." (Angelus, December 8, 2005 Pope Benedict) Scripture for Lectio: "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5-6) Sponsor - Called to Communicate Our baptism equips and compels us to extend the prophetic mission of Jesus Christ. Each woman who has encountered Christ has a story and a message of hope. We live in times that need women's voices to reclaim the power of words and put them in the service of the Gospel. Called to Communicate is a free 5-day online conference beginning September 30, 2024. This online event promises encouragement, laughter, tears, practical advice, and spiritual wisdom from the women leading in the Church's mission of evangelization. Register at <a href= "http://calledtocommunicate.com/">CalledtoCommunicate.com</a>. If the event dates have passed, the entire conference is still available to purchase and watch! Listen to powerful interviews with Heather, Michelle, Sister Miriam and many others. Use code "Abide" for $10 off extended access and bonus gifts. Timestamps: 00:00 - Called to Communicate 01:28 - Intro 02:21 - Welcome 06:37 - Guiding Quote 07:40 - Joy 15:36 - Sorrow 30:05 - One Things 33:02 - Announcement

S15 E1 - Living the Mysteries (Part 1)

How is it that a young French girl who entered the convent at 15 years old and died at only 24 years old would become a Doctor of the Church? How is it that on her deathbed her own sisters thought her life was so unremarkable that they struggled to write her obituary?

Today, Fr. Mike reflects on how the &quot;Little Way&quot; of St. Thérèse of Lisieux contains a secret to holiness for every modern Catholic. <a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

Why St Thérèse and Her “Little Way” Will Change Your Life

Fr. Mike takes us through the last chapter of Isaiah by explaining how our emotions can sometimes get in the way of us responding well to those around us. This means mourning with those who mourn, and rejoicing with those who rejoice, as Isaiah teaches us in preparation for the coming of Christ. Today&#39;s readings are Isaiah 66, Ezekiel 25-26, and Proverbs 14:1-4.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 223: Responding Well (2025)

Homily from the Twenty-fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Our answer makes a difference. We are presented today with the single most important question any of us will be asked and all of us will have to answer: who do you say that Jesus is?<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from September 15, 2024:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Isaiah 50:5-9</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalms 116:1-9</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">James 2:14-18</dt> Mark 8:27-35

09/15/24 The Most Important Question

We arrive at the conclusion of the article on how Jesus prays, teaches us to pray, and hears our prayer. Fr. Mike examines the remarkable beauty and simplicity of the “Jesus Prayer.” He also examines Mary&#39;s Fiat and Magnificat, and how she can pray and intercede for us. He concludes with an invitation to prayer by saying it is more important to pray than to talk about prayer. Today’s readings are Catechism paragraphs 2616-2622.

This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy

Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Day 336: Jesus Hears Our Prayer (2025)

Homily from the Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time. If we are going to love like Jesus, we must love differently…we must love defiantly. The Universe is indifferent to us. People can be vicious to us. The Christian’s response is not indifference nor viciousness. The Christian response is to love in the face of indifference and evil.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from February 23, 2020:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalms 103:1-4, 8, 10, 12-13</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">1 Corinthians 3:16-23</dt> Matthew 5:38-48 <a href="https://bulldogcatholic.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/99f64eb3b5128d37af33e207eead1841.jpg">See the Picture of Saint Maria Goretti</a>

02/23/20 Defiant Love

Welcome to The Saint of the Day Podcast, a service of <a href='https://www.goodcatholic.com/'>Good Catholic</a> and <a href='http://thecatholiccompany.com/'>The Catholic Company</a>.   Today&apos;s featured saint is St. Lawrence of Brindisi.   If you like what you heard, share this podcast with someone you know, and make sure to subscribe!🔔Subscribe to Our Channel: <a href='https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&amp;redir_token=QUFFLUhqbVNrdEJMWl9MMHluX2FYOVExYktxa0xGdGp1d3xBQ3Jtc0tsSmFkN2pqNWFkQkI3NVFFeGZYTno0cmp6b1hJVVI3cW5IbmZ4aWN1Y0FLRUJsWUItZGRJSTRPUW13YWtnQVJLbzBUS041TzlveF9Ec3lwSDd4RWgwaFg3VTJQc2Eyc3lXTkF1WWoyM0MyenV2MTdzbw&amp;q=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2F3sX4exh&amp;v=uXS4iQbY-gY'>https://bit.ly/3sX4exh</a>✅ Visit Good Catholic for more great content:

7/21 - St. Lawrence of Brindisi

<ol><li>Intro: Welcome to the podcast Coronavirus Crisis: Carpe Diem!, where by God’s grace, you and I rise up and embrace the possibilities and opportunities for spiritual and psychological growth in this time of crisis, all grounded in a Catholic worldview.   We are going beyond mere resilience, to rising up to the challenges of this pandemic and becoming even healthier in the natural and the spiritual realms than we were before.  I’m clinical psychologist Peter Malinoski and I am here with you, to be your host and guide.  This podcast is part of Souls and Hearts, our online outreach at soulsandhearts.com, which is all about shoring up our natural foundation for the Catholic spiritual life, all about overcoming psychological obstacles to being loved and to loving.  <ol><li>This is episode 41, released on November 9, 2020</li><li>Thank you for being here with me.  </li><li>and it is the fifth episode in our series on shame.  </li><li>and it is titled: Rewind: Trauma and Shame in King David's Childhood</li><li>We cover really difficult topics in this podcast -- <ol><li>we go to the really challenging places that other podcasts are unwilling or unable to go.  </li><li>Because we have to.  Because people are caught in those places and they are hurting, because people are trapped and people are in danger, they are in peril.  </li><li>And we need to reach out to them.  </li><li>And you know what?  We are those people too.  <ol><li>We have parts of us trapped in bad places, places we don't understand, places we are afraid of, places that we don't want to go by ourselves, all alone</li><li>But together, each of us can understand much more of our unconscious.    </li></ol></li></ol></li><li>This is the second of a subseries highly experiential episodes -- these episodes are opportunities for experiential learning -- to learn a lot about yourself -- about who you really are, about your history.  <ol><li>St. Paul  <ol><li>Romans 7:15   I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate. </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Romans 7:18b-19  I can will what is right, but I cannot do it. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want [that] is what I do. </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>St. Paul doesn't understand himself -- St. Paul, a pillar of virtue, author of half the books in the New Testament, St. Paul, who endured outrageous sufferings, amazing self sacrifice -- he's admitting to being dominated by his unconscious.  </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Isn't a question of willpower -- Paul had extraordinary willpower, hard to imagine many saints that can best him in terms of willpower.  </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>It’s a question of insight.  Of understanding.  <ol><li>Won't be complete</li><li>But we can have much more insight and understanding than we do now.  </li></ol></li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li>Continuing story of Princess Tamar, Crown Prince Amnon, Prince Absalom, and King David  <ol><li>But diving much deeper into in the inner experience of these characters and others <ol><li>Why did they do the things that they did</li><li>Why did they say the things that they did</li><li>What were they thinking, feeling, sensing, believing, desiring, seeking</li><li>And what where they missing, what where they forgetting, not noticing?</li><li>What made them tick?</li></ol></li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Through clinical eyes.  </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Much more to the story than the brief account in 2 Samuel 13  <ol><li>We will be using other sources -- e.g. archeology to help us understand the time and culture</li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>But also psychological insights about shame, trauma, the motives for the rape, </li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Why -- not just to understand this story and the people this story</li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>But to help you understand your story and the people in your story <ol><li>Really about you understanding you  <ol><li>I will be discussing the different internal parts or modes of operating for these men and women to help you gain insight into them. To make sense of their actions to see them in 3 dimensions instead of just in the short account given in the Scripture</li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Scripture is the word of God -- we need to unpack it, we need to decode the human language of revelation as the Pontifical Bible Commission put it in  <ol><li>The Interpretation of the Bible in the Church -- 1993 Pontifical Bible Commission, endorsed by St. Pope John Paul II  <ol><li> Psychology and theology continue their mutual dialogue. The modern extension of psychological research to the study of the dynamic structures of the subconscious has given rise to fresh attempts at interpreting ancient texts, including the Bible. </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Psychological and psychoanalytical studies do bring a certain enrichment to biblical exegesis in that, because of them, the texts of the Bible can be better understood in terms of experience of life and norms of behavior. </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>As is well known, religion is always in a relationship of conflict or debate with the unconscious. </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>It  [the unconscious] plays a significant role in the proper orientation of human drives. Psychology and psychoanalysis… lead to a multidimensional understanding of Scripture and help decode the human language of revelation. </li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>What I am offering is admittedly speculative --  I am speculating about motives, internal conflicts, internal experience of the real people in the story  <ol><li>I won't get it all right</li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>But the point is to show you a way to think about internal experience -- your own and others in a much deeper, more insightful way.  It's about learning how to seek inside yourself to understand your own internal experience -- emotions, sensations, beliefs, attitudes, impulses, desires, intentions, conflicts, all the internal stuff.  It's about that process, learning to seek.  Seek and ye shall find.  </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>It's a way to understand the unconscious -- your unconscious, all the conflict inside, all the mysterious elements</li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>Utterly faithful to the fullness of truth as revealed by the Catholic Church.  </li></ol></li><li> <ol><li>We are bringing the best of psychology to the fullness of divine revelation -- all in the service of being able to understand ourselves better so we can understand others better  <ol><li>You can really understanding anybody else very well if you don't understand yourself.  You'll misinterpret what you see in the other person.  <ol><li>If you don't tolerate awareness of anger in yourself, and you sense anger in your relationship with another person, you'll assume it's the other person who is angry -- defense of projection</li></ol></li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li></ol></li><li> </li></ol></li></ol> <ol><li>Not just some psychological self-discovery project -- <ol><li>to help you understand the story of others, and the people in their stories</li><li>So you can love them -- and love Christ in them.  </li></ol></li><li>We are going to get some of this wrong -- we won't be 100% accurate, but that's it's not the point right now.  Tamar doesn't need us, at this point in her life, to empathize with her.  She's dead and experiencing her eternity.  So is King David, Prince Amnon, Prince Absalom, the...</li></ol>

41 Rewind: Trauma and Shame in King David's Childhood

Resources: <ul type="disc"> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://shop.spiritualdirection.com/product/divine-intimacy/">Divine Intimacy</a> – daily meditations</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://stpaulmemphis.com/product/into-the-deep/">Into the Deep</a> – Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">Spiritual Warfare and the Discernment of Spirits</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/the-contemplative-rosary"> The Contemplative Rosary</a> - Dan Burke and Connie Rossini</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://onelink.to/92tyk4">The Contemplative Rosary App</a> (phones and tablets only)</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://spiritualdirection.com/shop">A Catholic Guide to Mindfulness</a> - Susan Brinkmann OCDS</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "https://avila-institute.org/events/">Avila-Institute.org/events</a> - website</li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://avila-institute.org/" target= "_blank" rel="noopener">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li class="MsoNormal"><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> – online</li> </ul>

Questions & Answers

As we continue to read through the ten plagues of Egypt, Fr. Mike uses the example of Pharoah to show us how our hearts can either harden or melt in response to God. Today we read Exodus 9, Leviticus 7, and Psalm 49.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 32: Cattle, Boils, and Hail (2024)

As we continue along the path of our forefathers in faith, Fr. Mike reminds us that we live in the same era as the Apostles and have the same Holy Spirit. Just like St. Paul stood out by imitating Jesus and sharing the Gospel, we are called to do the same. Fr. Mike also discusses our duality as both body and soul as it relates to Christ’s resurrection. Today’s readings are Acts 17, 1 Corinthians 15, and Proverbs 28:16-18.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 338: Death Defeated (2025)

Homily from Holy Thursday, Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper He loved them to the end. One of the characteristics that marks modern man is that we find ourselves angry at God. In fact, we are so angry that we would be willing to hurt God if we could. Yet, God is invulnerable. He cannot be hurt. Still, God chose to step into this world and love us...while making Himself vulnerable.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from April, 17, 2025:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Isaiah 61:1-3a, 6a, 8b-9</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalm 116:12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18.</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">1 Corinthians 11:23-26</dt> John 13:1-15

4/17/25 The God Who Makes Himself Vulnerable

Professor Jordan Wales explores the evolution of AI from symbolic to statistical methods, highlighting the capabilities and limitations of modern AI systems. It delves into the concept of personhood, tracing its origins from classical times through Christian theology to modern interpretations, and argues that current AI lacks the consciousness and interiority necessary for true personhood. He concludes by examining behaviorist approaches to AI and intelligence, warning against redefining human consciousness solely in terms of observable behavior. This lecture was given on February 29th, 2024, at Ohio State University. For more information on upcoming events, visit us at <a href="https://thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events." target="_blank">thomisticinstitute.org/upcoming-events</a> About the Speaker: Jordan Wales is Associate Professor and John and Helen Kuczmarski Chair in Theology at Hillsdale College, where he teaches historical theology. His scholarship—appearing in journals such as Augustinian Studies, the Journal of Moral Theology, and AI &amp; Society—focuses on early Christianity as well as theology and Artificial Intelligence. Holding degrees in Engineering (B.S.), Cognitive Science (M.Sc.), and Theology (Dip.Theol., M.T.S., Ph.D.), he is a member of the AI Research Group for the Centre for Digital Culture, under the Dicastery of Culture and Education at the Holy See; a fellow of the International Society for Science and Religion; and a fellow of the Centre for Humanity and the Common Good.

Is AI Sentient? | Prof. Jordan Wales

In today&#39;s reading from Jeremiah, Fr. Mike points out how God rejoices in doing us good, and wants to pour out his grace and mercy upon us. As we begin reading from Judith, he explains that, while it might not be historically accurate, the story is there to convey truth. The readings are Jeremiah 32, Judith 1-2, and Proverbs 16:25-28.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 246: Rejoice in Doing Good (2025)

Homily from Holy Thursday The only gifts the first priests had to offer the world was what God had given them. Holy Thursday marks the beginning of the final stages of Christ's Passion. But it also marks the institution of the Eucharist and the Priesthood.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Mass Readings from April 6, 2023:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Psalm 116:12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">1 Corinthians 11:23-26</dt> John 13:1-15

4/6/23 Priesthood

In today&#39;s episode, Jeff connects an old World War II song to a popular Gospel story, giving the phrase &quot;living on a wing and a prayer&quot; new meaning. Tune in for a reminder that we can always reach out to Christ when we&#39;re at risk of losing hope.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Jeff Cavins Show (Your Catholic Bible Study Podcast)</a>

Living on a Wing and a Prayer

We must place our faith in Christ in order to allow him to save us. But what does it actually mean to have faith? What does it look like? Does it mean you just &quot;agree&quot; with everything Jesus and his Church say? Or is it deeper than that?

Today, Fr. Mike draws a sharp distinction between faith and mere &quot;agreement&quot;, and calls us to a more radical trust in our savior.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

What REAL Faith Looks Like

Fr. Mike draws our attention to the descriptions of wisdom found in our readings for today and reflects on the beauty of wisdom’s feminine nature. He also discusses the death of Antiochus Epiphanes and offers two perspectives on reconciling God’s role in suffering. Today’s readings are from 2 Maccabees 9, Wisdom 7-8, and Proverbs 25:1-3.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 306: Wisdom Is Beautiful (2025)

Fr. Mike highlights the rich text in Isaiah 55 and 56 which reveals that the house of the Lord will not only be for the chosen people, but for all people. We also hear the story of how God mercifully restores Israel who is like an unfaithful bride. Today’s readings are Isaiah 55-56, Ezekiel 16, and Proverbs 13:1-4.

For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear.

Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Bible in a Year (with Fr. Mike Schmitz)</a>

Day 217: The Everlasting Covenant (2025)

Homily from the Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time. The battle of prayer. Every one of us knows that we ought to pray. But not all of us know how. In addition, not all of us know that prayer can often be a challenge...it is a battle.<dl style="margin : 0; padding-top:0;"><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Mass Readings from July 27, 2025:</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Genesis 18:20-32</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;"> Psalm 138:1-3, 6-8</dt><dt style="font-weight:normal;">Colossians 2:12-14</dt> Luke 11:1-13

07/27/25 Teach Us to Pray

If you want to know how to share the gospel, it’s important to have the love and courage to not just give answers and corrections, but to ask questions. It is in asking questions from the heart that you convey true interest in the person’s soul, instead of just trying to convince the person you’re right.

Fr. Mike tells of a time when a student came to him saying he tries to evangelize, but just gets shut down. He tried to tell his good friend that he shouldn’t be over-drinking, and this just made his friend mad. Fr. Mike told this student, that’s not evangelization. That’s correction.

A good friend or pastor, depending on the relationship, may be in a position to offer correction to those they love. But evangelizing is a different conversation. Evangelization is introducing Christ to others.

That’s why Fr. Mike suggests asking questions when trying to introduce Christ to someone, because questions are a natural part of two people getting to know each other. If you are being Christ to someone, by asking them questions they are getting to know Christ just as much as you are getting to know them. Furthermore, asking genuine questions establishes a relationship and shows you are interested in where the person is coming from. 

Also, it’s OK not to know the answers. Sometimes we get caught up in the concept communicated in St. Peter’s words:

“Always be prepared to make a defense to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence” (1 Peter 3:15).

There will be a time for that, but when that time comes the Holy Spirit will give you the words to say (Luke 12:12). Be content with just getting to know the person better first.

Also check out Ascension’s parish mission program, The 99: A New System for Evangelization<a rel="payment" href="https://ascensionpress.com/products/support-ascension">Support The Fr. Mike Schmitz Catholic Podcast</a>

How to Share the Gospel (and How Not To)

Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather recap their conference on restoring the beauty with special guest Fr. Josh Johnson. We talk about the four themes of our weekend and how this applies to all of us at every stage in our spiritual journey. We also discuss what it looks like to have restored hearts, femininity, hope, relationships. One Thing We Love this Week <ul> <li>Sister Miriam's one thing - Book by Dr. Conrad Bars I Will Give Them a New Heart</li> <li>Michelle's one thing - Being together</li> <li>Heather's one thing - Her husband Jake (also the incredible Hannah Van Noort)</li> <li>Fr. Josh's one thing - Fr. Lucio Choi & Heather's family</li> </ul> Discussion Questions <ol> <li>Fr. Josh said that when we allow Jesus into our painful places that he will not hurt us, he will only love us. What does this stir in you?</li> <li>Sometimes we can brood and focus on our pain or lies more than the truth. What does this do to your heart when you do this? How can you change this pattern?</li> <li>The word restore means to stand again. What is a part of your life that you would like the Lord to raise you up, to stand again?</li> <li>Where in the garden of our souls is Christ present, but we don't recognize him?</li> <li>What is one area from your childhood that God wants to restore in you?</li> <li>What does it mean to restore the beauty in the Church?</li> </ol> Journal Questions <ol> <li>God asks us, "would you let me love you in your deepest shame and vulnerability?" Journal your own prayer response to this question.</li> <li>If we are in relationship with Jesus and know his voice, we can better perceive where he is in challenging moments in our life. Pause and reflect on where Jesus is right now in the difficulties of your life.</li> <li>How is God asking you to restore the beauty in yourself and the Church?</li> </ol> Quote to Ponder "How many times in our life is Christ present in our garden, in our soul, but we think he is the gardener?" - Sister Miriam Scripture for Lectio Divina - Lamentations 5:21 "Restore us to yourself, Lord, that we may return; renew our days as of old."