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Description: This week Dan and Melissa speak with Dr. Anthony Lilles about Saint Therese of Lisieux's "Little Way" and how this practical guide to spirituality can help anyone find Christ. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Saint Therese explains that Jesus' heart breaks when Christians are ungrateful for what He has done in their lives, especially when they reject the grace that He has given them.</li> <li>What is Saint Therese's "little way"?</li> <li>How can this method of spirituality help those who are not cloistered religious?</li> <li>Does her "little way" work? How do we know?</li> <li>How can we find peace in the midst of worldly chaos and turmoil?</li> <li>Why do discussions about the saints bring us peace?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/LIVING+THE+MYSTERY+OF+MERCIFUL+LOVE.axd" target="_blank">Living the Mystery of Merciful Love: 30 Days with Therese of Lisieux</a> by Dr. Anthony Lilles and Dan Burke</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

December 30, 2016 - Saint Therese and her "Little Way"

Description: Dan and Melissa discuss how one should handle situations that occur during discovery prayer. Topics/Questions covered on the show: <ul> <li>If your prayer time has ended, what should you do if you are not finished with all five steps of discovery prayer?</li> <li>While praying, if the Lord blesses you with a consolation and your prayer time is complete, what should you do?</li> <li>If you are having a consolation, should you move on to complete the steps of discovery prayer or rest with the consolation?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/resources-2" target="_blank">Into the Deep: Finding Peace Through Prayer</a> by Dan Burke</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

November 11, 2016 - Into the Deep: Questions on Discovery Prayer

Description: This week Dan and Melissa discuss how the rules of Saint Ignatius of Loyola's Discernment of Spirits has impacted their lives. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>The rules of The Discernment of Spirits that have had the most impact on Dan and Melissa.</li> <li class="p1">Which rules seem to be the most important in establishing a closer relationship to Christ?</li> <li class="p1">Is a daily examination of conscience necessary to grow in the spiritual life?</li> <li class="p1">How can the life and writings of Saint Therese of Lisieux help inspire those called to the vocation of marriage and family life?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Prayer/THE+DISCERNMENT+OF+SPIRITS.axd" target="_blank">The Discernment of Spirits</a> by Father Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.</li> <li><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Prayer/THE+EXAMEN+PRAYER.axd" target="_blank">The Examen Prayer</a> by Father Timothy Gallagher, O.M.V.</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/resources-2" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com Recommended Resources</a></li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

July 15, 2016 - Discernment of Spirits: An Overview

What is "centering prayer"? Can it lead to contemplation? Do I need to pray to be saved? Dan and Melissa discuss these questions and more as they reflect on the book Finding God Through Meditation by St Peter of Alcántara. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Is contemplation the same thing as centering prayer?</li> <li>Can contemplation be attained or prepared for through the centering prayer method?</li> <li>What does the Catholic Church say about centering prayer?</li> <li>What's wrong with the concept of "letting thoughts go"?</li> <li>Is prayer necessary for salvation?</li> <li>What does St Bonaventure say about prayer?</li> <li>How do I become holy?</li> <li>How does mental prayer help keep us on "the narrow way" to holiness?</li> <li>Prayer as a means of keeping our spiritual vision clear.</li> <li>Does a life of faith without prayer make any sense?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Finding-God-Through-Meditation-St-Peter-of-Alcantara-P12214.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> – St. Peter of Alcántara</li> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Finding-God-Through-Meditation-St-Peter-of-Alcantara-FONT-colorff0000beBookbFONT-P12222.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> ebook - St. Peter of Alcántara</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/divine-intimacy-radio" target="_blank">Divine Intimacy Radio</a> on spiritualdirection.com website</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/" target="_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2014/01/10/can-centering-prayer-be-redeemed" target="_blank">Can Centering Prayer be Redeemed?</a> - Post on spiritualdirection.com by Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/12/19/infused-contemplation-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Infused Contemplation</a> - Definition, post on spiritualdirection.com</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2011/11/11/the-vatican-on-christian-meditation-and-centering-prayer" target="_blank">The Vatican on Christian Meditation and Centering Prayer</a> - Post on spritualdirection.com</li> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Navigating-the-Interior-Life-Spiritual-Direction-and-the-Journey-to-God-P11835.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Navigating the Interior Life</a> (for the book in Spanish: <a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Navegando-La-Vida-Interior-La-Direcci%C3%B3n-Espiritual-y-el-Camino-a-Dios-P12174.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Navegando La Vida Interior -- click here</a>) - Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Buddha-Pill-Meditation-Change/dp/1780287186/cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Buddha Pill: Can Meditation Change You?</a> - Miguel Farias and Catherine Wikholm</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/matthew/7" target="_blank">Matthew 7:13-14</a> - The Narrow Gate (The Narrow Way)- USCCB Bible link</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2012/04/21/what-is-lectio-divina-and-will-it-help-my-prayer-life-a-guide-to-lectio-divina" target="_blank">Lectio Divina, A Guide: What It Is & How It Helps Prayer Life</a> - Post on spiritual direction.com</li> <li><a href="http://majorchange.org/onething/#onething2015catholictrack" target="_blank">Onething 2015</a> - Dan Burke speaking engagement, along with Audrey Assad, in Kansas City (Dec. 28-31)</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/1thessalonians/5" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 5:23</a> - "May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - USCCB Bible link</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:Questions@myavila.com">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729.</li> </ul>

Reflections on Finding God through Meditation - Centering Prayer and the Necessity of Prayer

Dan and Melissa discuss detachment and suffering by reflecting on the first two letters from St. Teresa in the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Attachments: How to recognize them. Are they bad?</li> <li>What are the steps to achieving detachment?</li> <li>How can we obtain freedom and peace through detachment?</li> <li>Dan shares his story of how interior peace and freedom are helping him go through a time of suffering.</li> <li>St. John of the Cross reveals how suffering and detachment are related.</li> <li>Using periods of consolation to rest and prepare for desolation, from St. Ignatius Rules for Discernment.</li> <li>Book of Revelation: When will suffering end?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx#sthash.hl7B1Flq.dpbs" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles, Emmaus Road Publishing</li> <li>Dr. Anthony Lilles - <a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles" target="_blank">http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/csd-book-club" target="_blank">SpiritualDirection.com Book Club</a></li> <li>EWTN Religious Catalog - <a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com" target="_blank">http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=The+Living+Flame+of+Love" target="_blank">The Living Flame of Love</a> - St. John of the Cross</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Discernment-Spirits-Ignatian-Everyday-Living/dp/0824522915/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1429730915&sr=1-1&keywords=Rules+for+Discernment" target="_blank">The Discernment of Spirits - An Ignatian Guide ...</a> - By Timothy Gallagher</li> <li>Revelation 21 - <a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/revelation/21" target="_blank">http://www.usccb.org/bible/revelation/21</a></li> </ul>

30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Days 1 & 2

Why are we tempted to stop praying, and what are the consequences of doing so? Dan and Melissa share some of St. Teresa of Avila's thoughts on these topics as documentsed in her letters from the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Where does the temptation to stop praying come from?</li> <li>What are the biggest obstacles to prayer and how can we overcome them?</li> <li>How is prayer connected to our salvation?</li> <li>The secret to perserverance in prayer - St. Teresa has some practical advice.</li> <li>St. Teresa's experience with false humility and how it kept her from prayer.</li> <li>What are the benefits of keeping a daily prayer routine?</li> <li>Call in with questions: 818-646-7729.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/30+DAYS+WITH+SAINT+TERESA+OF+AVILA.axd" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles" target="_blank">Dr. Anthony Lilles - http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/csd-book-club" target="_blank">SpiritualDirection.com Book Club</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Spiritual+Reading/NAVIGATING+THE+INTERIOR+LIFE.axd" target="_blank">Navigating the Interior Life</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/THE+AUTOBIOGRAPHY+OF+ST+TERESA+OF+AVILA.axd" target="_blank">The Autobiography of St. Teresa of Avila</a> - Translated by David Lewis</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/THE+INTERIOR+CASTLE+ST+TERESA+OF+AVILA.axd" target="_blank">The Interior Castle: St. Teresa of Avila</a> - Translated by the Benedictines of Stanbrook</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Prayer/FINDING+GOD+THROUGH+MEDITATION.axd" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> - St. Peter of Alcantara</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">http://avila-institute.com</a> - The Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</li> </ul>

Difficulties in Prayer - 30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Day 11

Can suffering be a blessing? How to understand God's role in our suffering. Dan and Melissa look at St. Teresa's attitude toward suffering as they reflect on her letters from the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>How can suffering be considered a blessing?</li> <li>Seeking positive diversions when faced with suffering.</li> <li>The dangers of destructive forms of escape from suffering.</li> <li>Can suffering lead to peace?</li> <li>How can we understand God's will in our suffering?</li> <li>Understanding suffering comes in stages - a pathway rather than a destination.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li>Catholic Spiritual Direction website - <a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com" target="_blank">http://www.spiritualdirection.com</a></li> <li>2 Corinthians, Chapter 4 - <a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/2corinthians/4" target="_blank">http://www.usccb.org/bible/2corinthians/4</a></li> <li>Romans, Chapter 8 - <a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/romans/8" target="_blank">http://www.usccb.org/bible/romans/8</a> </li> <li>Acts, Chapter 5 - <a href="http://origin.usccb.org/bible/acts/5" target="_blank">http://origin.usccb.org/bible/acts/5</a></li> </ul>

Suffering as a blessing - 30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Day 15

Description: Dan and Melissa answer questions from listeners about hearing God's voice in prayer and spiritual reading versus Scripture reading during prayer time. Topics/Questions covered on the show: <ul> <li>If we can meditate more easily on spiritual reading rather than Scripture, should we only pray using spiritual reading? </li> <li>How do we know if we are hearing the voice of God in prayer?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/resources-2" target="_blank">Into the Deep: Finding Peace Through Prayer</a> by Dan Burke</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

November 18, 2016 - Into the Deep: Questions on Discerning God's Voice

Description: This week Dan, Melissa and Dr. Anthony Lilles discuss St. Therese's meaning of true joy, justice in the eyes of God, and the source of our merits. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li class="p1">What does St. Therese mean when she says that she does not want to "lay up merits for heaven"?</li> <li class="p1">Is there a difference between happiness and joy?</li> <li class="p1">Can we console the heart of Christ?</li> <li class="p1">Why does St. Therese say that all of our justice is stained in God's eyes?</li> <li class="p1">Christ is the source of all merit.</li> <li class="p1">Little, imperfect acts of love are amplified by Jesus' merits, love and grace. So, by doing these littles acts of love we are creating space for God to do something beautiful in our lives.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/LIVING+THE+MYSTERY+OF+MERCIFUL+LOVE.axd" target="_blank">Living the Mystery of Merciful Love: 30 Days with Therese of Lisieux</a> by Dr. Anthony Lilles and Dan Burke</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

February 3, 2017 - St. Therese: The Oblation Parts 7 & 8, Justice and Merits

Spiritual direction and spiritual aridity are the topics today as Dan and Melissa discuss letters written by St. Teresa from the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Find your core spirituality with the help of a good spiritual director.</li> <li>How is the soul like the weather?</li> <li>How not to become discouraged because of distractions during prayer.</li> <li>What is spiritual aridity?</li> <li>Human (natural) vs. Supernatural causes of aridity.</li> <li>How can we identify the causes of spirtual aridity?</li> <li>St. John of the Cross and the Dark Night of the Soul</li> <li>Read along with the SpiritualDirection.com book club, and call in with questions: 818-646-7729.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/30+DAYS+WITH+SAINT+TERESA+OF+AVILA.axd" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles" target="_blank">Dr. Anthony Lilles - http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/csd-book-club" target="_blank">SpiritualDirection.com Book Club</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Spiritual+Reading/NAVIGATING+THE+INTERIOR+LIFE.axd" target="_blank">Navigating the Interior Life</a> - Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">http://avila-institute.com</a> - The Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Spiritual+Reading/THE+DARK+NIGHT+OF+THE+SOUL.axd" target="_blank">Dark Night of the Soul</a> - St. John of the Cross</li> </ul>

30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Days 9 & 10

In the midst of her own suffering, St. Teresa "lifts the eyes" of Doña Maria de Mendoza who is experiencing trials. St. Teresa consoles her friend by helping her to understand God's role in her suffering. Dan and Melissa discuss joy, suffering, emotions, and acts of the will as they reflect on letters from St. Teresa in the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>How to identify the saint who can best help you in your spiritual life.</li> <li>Can you actually feel joy in the midst of your trials?</li> <li>Can you prepare yourself in advance for suffering?</li> <li>What are some things that hinder our spiritual growth?</li> <li>Can we recognize the value in our suffering?</li> <li>Does joy in suffering require an act of the will, or is it a gift?</li> <li>How does suffering aid in spiritual growth?</li> <li>How do "victim souls" participate in Jesus suffering and salvation of the world?</li> <li>Understanding that the suffering that God allows is for our salvation.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/divine-intimacy-radio" target="_blank">Divine Intimacy Radio</a> on spiritualdirection.com website</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles" target="_blank">Dr. Anthony Lilles</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Teresa-Avila-Book-Her-Life/dp/0872209075/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_cw?&linkCode=waf&tag=cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Book of Her Life</a> - Teresa of Avila</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0935216804/cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Interior Castle Study Edition</a> </li> <li><a href="http://www.nationalreview.com/article/424136/daniel-burke-spiritual-direction" target="_blank">National Review Online</a> - Kathryn Jean Lopez interviews Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/colossians/1" target="_blank">Colossians 1:24</a> - "Now I rejoice in my sufferings..." USCCB link</li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/acts/5" target="_blank">Acts 5:41</a> - "So they left the presence of the Sanhedrin, rejoicing that they had bene found worthy to suffer dishonor for the sake of the name." USCCB link</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Living-Flame-Love-John-Cross/dp/1507754612/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_cw?&linkCode=waf&tag=cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Living Flame of Love</a> - St. John of the Cross</li> <li><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%201:3-7&version=DRA" target="_blank">2 Corinthians 1:3-7 </a>- "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort..." Bible Gateway, Douay-Rheims link online</li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/mark/9/" target="_blank">Mark 9:24</a> - "I do believe, help my unbelief!" USCCB Bible online</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/pilgrimage" target="_blank">Pilgrimage 2016 to Avila with Dan Burke and Teresa Tomeo</a> (March 28 - April 4, 2016)</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:Questions@myavila.com">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729.</li> </ul>

Joy in Suffering - 30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Day 28, Part 1

St. Teresa gives insight into effective leadership techniques. Dan and Melissa reflect on letters from St. Teresa from the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>St. Teresa returns to the Convent of the Incarnation, which is in a state of rebellion and spiritual poverty.</li> <li>A historical look at the situation at the Convent at the time of St. Teresa's return.</li> <li>What does it mean to be a successful leader?</li> <li>Does the gift of good leadership skills necessarily lead to pride?</li> <li>What is the true source of our authority as leaders?</li> <li>How to use love and prayer as leadership tools.</li> <li>St. Teresa demonstrates that provision grows with holiness.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com" target="_blank">http://www.spiritualdirection.com</a> - Catholic Spiritual Direction website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/" target="_blank">EWTN Religious Catalog</a> - online</li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWfYQGIadQQ" target="_blank">Journey Home on YouTube</a> - Marcus Grodi interviews Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Collected-Works-St-Teresa-Avila/dp/0935216065/ref=as_sl_pd_tf_mfw?&linkCode=wey&tag=cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Collected Works of St. Teresa of Avila, Vol. III</a> - contains Book of Her Foundations</li> </ul>

Leadership and Prayer - 30 Days with Teresa of Avila - Reflections on Day 19

Who was St. Peter of Alcántara? What did he have to say about prayer? Join Dan and Melissa as they begin a discussion of his book Finding God Through Meditation, and answer a question from a listener about prayer. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Do I really need to set aside a specific time for prayer every day?</li> <li>How do ascetical practices help us in prayer?</li> <li>Can we train our bodies to aid in our prayer lives?</li> <li>Why is morning the best time to devote to prayer?</li> <li>What if we don't have time for prayer in the morning?</li> <li>What is Lectio Divina?</li> <li>Ways to get our minds oriented toward God.</li> <li>Does God call us to prayer? How do we recognize His call?</li> <li>What's the difference between duty and devotion when it comes to prayer?</li> <li>How does spiritual reading improve our spiritual life?</li> <li>How did St. Teresa of Avila use the teaching of St. Peter?</li> <li>Some background on the life of St. Peter.</li> <li>Next time: Introduction to the book Finding God Through Meditation, and why St. Peter is relevant today.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Finding-God-Through-Meditation-St-Peter-of-Alcantara-P12214.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> – St. Peter of Alcántara</li> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/Finding-God-Through-Meditation-St-Peter-of-Alcantara-FONT-colorff0000beBookbFONT-P12222.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> ebook - St. Peter of Alcántara</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/divine-intimacy-radio" target="_blank">Divine Intimacy Radio</a> on spiritualdirection.com website</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/" target="_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx?afid=30" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/author/dr-lilles" target="_blank">Dr. Anthony Lilles</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Teresa-Avila-Book-Her-Life/dp/0872209075/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_cw?&linkCode=waf&tag=cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Book of Her Life</a> – Teresa of Avila</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2015/10/29/if-only-you-knew-st-teresa-the-waters-of-prayer-part-2-of-2" target="_blank">The Four Waters of Prayer, Part II of II</a> - Post on spiritualdirection.com by the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles</li> <li></li> <li><a href="http://newadvent.org/cathen/06082a.htm" target="_blank">First-Fruits</a> - New Advent link</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2012/04/21/what-is-lectio-divina-and-will-it-help-my-prayer-life-a-guide-to-lectio-divina" target="_blank">Lectio Divina, A Guide</a> - spiritualdirection.com post by Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/psalms/63" target="_blank">Psalm 63</a> - "O God, you are my God—it is you I seek! For you my body yearns; for you my soul thirsts..." - USCCB Bible link</li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/1thessalonians/5" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 5:23</a> - "May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - USCCB Bible link</li> <li><a href="http://majorchange.org/onething/#onething2015catholictrack" target="_blank">Onething 2015</a> - Dan Burke speaking engagement, Kansas City (Dec. 28-31)</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/pilgrimage" target="_blank">Pilgrimage 2016 to Avila with Dan Burke and Teresa Tomeo</a> (March 28 - April 4, 2016)</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:Questions@myavila.com">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729.</li> </ul>

Finding God Through Meditation - St. Peter of Alcántara and the Importance of Prayer

How should we respond to experiencing God in prayer? What is "spiritual haze", where does it come from, and how should we properly deal with it? Dan and Melissa look to the wisdom of St Peter of Alcántara in the book Finding God Through Meditation as they discuss answers to these questions in today's show. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>What does it mean to experience the presence of God in prayer, or following from prayer?</li> <li>What should we do when the scriptural words of God affect us or move our hearts?</li> <li>What is "spiritual haze"? Where does it come from?</li> <li>How is the "noise" of daily life damaging to prayer?</li> <li>How does the enemy use noise to distract us from spiritual awareness?</li> <li>The need to regulate what we expose ourselves to outside of prayer.</li> <li>The importance of silence in prayer life.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target="_blank">SpiritualDirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/" target="_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target="_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Prayer/FINDING+GOD+THROUGH+MEDITATION.axd" target="_blank">Finding God Through Meditation</a> - St Peter of Alcántara, edited by Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2012/04/21/what-is-lectio-divina-and-will-it-help-my-prayer-life-a-guide-to-lectio-divina" target="_blank">Lectio Divina, A Guide: What It Is & How It Helps Prayer Life</a> - Post on SpiritualDirection.com [also can be done as "read, reflect, respond, rest, and resolve" as Dan describes in the show]</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/luke/12/" target="_blank">Luke 12:22-34</a> - Dependence on God - "He said to [his] disciples, 'Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life and what you will eat, or about your body and what you will wear. ....' "</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/john/14" target="_blank">John 14:1</a> - "Do not let your hearts be troubled."</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/john/14" target="_blank">John 14:27</a> - "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you" is referred to in every Mass. This reference may call to mind the rest of the verse: "Not as the world gives do I give it to you. Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid."</li> <li>Spiritual Dictionary Terms used in this show - Definitions from Dan's book <a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Spiritual+Reading/NAVIGATING+THE+INTERIOR+LIFE.axd" target="_blank">Navigating the Interior Life – Spiritual Direction and the Journey to God</a>. Click on the word for the link to the definition. <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/12/14/affective-meditation-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Affective Meditation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/10/29/appetites-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Appetites</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/11/07/consolation-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Consolation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/12/13/meditation-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Discursive Meditation</a> – Also known as reflective prayer.</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2013/11/26/imperfections-navigating-the-interior-life-spiritual-dictionary" target="_blank">Imperfections</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/luke/2/" target="_blank">Luke 2:19, 51</a> - "And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart." "...and his mother kept all these things in her heart."</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/AN+INTRODUCTION+TO+THE+DEVOUT+LIFE.axd" target="_blank">Introduction to the Devout Life</a> - by St. Francis de Sales (see II, 7 on the spiritual bouquet)</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/luke/21/" target="_blank">Luke 21:34-36</a> - Exhortation to be Vigilant [do not become dull]</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/academics/school-of-spiritual-formation/" target="_blank">Avila Institute - School of Spiritual Formation</a> - Course descriptions. See "Foundations of Prayer and Union with God"</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/matthew/13/" target="_blank">Matthew 13:1-9</a> - The Parable of the Sower</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/CHILDREN+S/Teens+Young+Adults/Books/THE+SCREWTAPE+LETTERS.axd" target="_blank">The Screwtape Letters</a> - C.S. Lewis</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/1thessalonians/5" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 5:23</a> - "May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - USCCB Bible link</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:Questions@myavila.com">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729.</li> </ul>

March 11, 2016 - Giving Thanks to God and Recognizing the Spiritual Haze

Dan and Melissa strongly recommend watching The Passion of the Christ on Good Friday evening to more effectively meditate on the brutal reality that Our Lord entered into to redeem the world. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Having a visually realistic portrayal of the event of our Lord’s Passion and death to meditate upon.</li> <li>Mary’s role in the Passion and the emotional suffering she endured.</li> <li>Scenes of the everyday life of the Holy Family.</li> <li>The meditations of those acting in the movie during the scene.</li> <li>Suggestions on how to watch the movie.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target="_blank">SpiritualDirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN//B00028HBKM/cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Passion of the Christ</a> - a Mel Gibson film</li> <li><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caravaggio" target="_blank">Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio</a> - Wikipedia biography</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1932645772/cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">Inside the Passion of the Christ</a> - Fr. John Bartunek</li> <li><a href="http://usccb.org/bible/luke/2/" target="_blank">Luke 2:33-35</a> - "The child’s father and mother were amazed at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, 'Behold, this child is destined for the fall and rise of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be contradicted (and you yourself a sword will pierce) so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.'"</li> <li>Our Lady of Sorrows (posts on SpiritualDirection.com): <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2014/04/11/seven-sorrows-of-mary" target="_blank">The Seven Sorrows of Mary</a> - Divine Intimacy Book Meditation</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2014/09/15/chaplet-of-our-lady-of-sorrows-the-seven-dolors-chaplet" target="_blank">Chaplet of Our Lady of Sorrows (The Seven Dolors Chaplet)</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2015/09/15/praying-the-clausular-rosary-on-the-memorial-of-our-lady-of-sorrows" target="_blank">Praying the Clausular Rosary on Our Lady of Sorrows Memorial</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2014/09/13/mothers-tears-retreat-guide-our-lady-of-sorrows" target="_blank">A Mother's Tears: A Retreat Guide on Our Lady of Sorrows</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.tanbooks.com/index.php/the-passion-despised-and-the-most-abject-of-men-a-man-of-sorrows-and-acquainted-with-infirmity.html" target="_blank">The Passion: Photography from the Movie "The Passion of the Christ"</a> - TAN books</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/2015/04/01/veronicas-veil" target="_blank">Veronica's Veil</a> - poetry by Donna Sue Barry, post on SpiritualDirection.com</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/1thessalonians/5" target="_blank">1 Thessalonians 5:23</a> - "May the God of peace himself make you perfectly holy and may you entirely, spirit, soul, and body, be preserved blameless for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." - USCCB Bible link</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href="mailto:Questions@myavila.com">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729.</li> </ul>

March 25, 2016 - Good Friday and The Passion of the Christ

Description: This week Dan, Melissa and Dr. Anthony Lilles discuss the meaning of being God's "little victim" and the idea of consoling God. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>Why can't St. Therese receive Holy Communion often?</li> <li>What does St. Therese mean by being a "little victim"? Does this imply self-pity?</li> <li>Why does she compare herself to a tabernacle?</li> <li>Does God need to be consoled? How can St. Therese say that she wants to console Him?</li> <li>Jesus reveals to us what's in the heart of the Father through His words and actions here on earth.</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com/" target= "_blank">Spiritualdirection.com</a> - website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/radio/index.asp" target= "_blank">EWTN Global Catholic Radio</a></li> <li><a href="http://avila-institute.com/" target="_blank">Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/" target= "_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - online</li> <li><a href= "http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/Home+Page/BOOKS/Saints+Religious/LIVING+THE+MYSTERY+OF+MERCIFUL+LOVE.axd" target="_blank">Living the Mystery of Merciful Love: 30 Days with Therese of Lisieux</a> by Dr. Anthony Lilles and Dan Burke</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/romans/12" target= "_blank">Romans 12:1</a> - "...offer your bodies as a living sacrifice..."</li> <li>Questions? Send an e-mail to <a href= "mailto:Questions@myavila.com" target= "_blank">Questions@myavila.com</a> or call 818-646-7729. — please leave your name, location and question.</li> </ul>

January 20, 2017 - St. Therese: The Oblation Parts 4 & 5,  God's Little Victim

St. Teresa diagnoses an attack of the devil on a fellow nun. Join Dan and Melissa as they discuss St. Teresa's advice to this nun in a letter from the book 30 Days with Teresa of Avila. Topics/Questions covered in the show: <ul> <li>How does the devil attack us through temptation?</li> <li>St. Teresa diagnoses the cause of another nun's personal struggles.</li> <li>Does St. Teresa contradict St. Ignatius Rules for Discerning of Spirits?</li> <li>How can we resist attacks from the enemy?</li> <li>"Breaking the silence" to fight the devil.</li> <li>Overcoming trials by serving others.</li> <li>Advice to avoid misusing the teachings of the saints.</li> <li>Why does spiritual progress increase the need for good spiritual direction?</li> </ul> Resources: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.emmausroad.org/30-Days-with-Teresa-of-Avila-P12215.aspx" target="_blank">30 Days with Teresa of Avila</a> - Dan Burke and Anthony Lilles</li> <li><a href="http://www.spiritualdirection.com" target="_blank">http://www.spiritualdirection.com</a> - Catholic Spiritual Direction website</li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtnreligiouscatalogue.com/BOOKS/cid=13/shop.axd/Category" target="_blank">EWTN Religious Catalogue</a> - Online</li> <li><a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/1corinthians/10" target="_blank">1 Corinthians 10</a> - USCCB Bible link</li> <li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Discernment-Spirits-Ignatian-Everyday-Living/dp/0824522915/ref=as_sl_pc_tf_cw?&linkCode=waf&tag=cathospiridir-20" target="_blank">The Discernment of Spirits - An Ignatian Guide for Everyday Living</a> - Fr. Timothy M. Gallagher, O.M.V.</li> <li><a href="http://www.discerninghearts.com/catholic-podcasts/14-rules-discerning-spirits-different-movements-caused-soul/" target="_blank">14 Rules for Discerning of Spirits</a> - Text from St. Ignatius with links to podcasts by Fr. Timothy Gallagher</li> <li><a href="http://divineoffice.org/#sthash.7QxdUwMj.dpbs" target="_blank">Divine Office - Liturgy of the Hours</a> - Online</li> </ul>