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Opening

Introduction

Chapter 1: Freedom and Acceptance

Chapter 1.2: Accepting Ourselves

Chapter 1.3: Accepting Suffering

Chapter 1.4: Accepting Other People

Chapter 2: The Present Moment

Chapter 3: A Dynamism of Faith, Hope, and Love

Chapter 4: From Law to Grace

Chapter 5: Spiritual Poverty and Freedom

Closing

It's not always possible to control external events. There are so many things that are outside our control: the past, what others think of us, chronic health issues, other peoples' actions, the weather, unforeseen events. This list goes on and on.
It is possible, though, to gain more control over our&nbsp;interior life. In his book&nbsp;Interior Freedom,&nbsp;Fr. Jacques Phillipe shows us that we possess, each of us, inside of us a space of freedom that no-one can take away. Despite the most unfavorable outward circumstances, we can claim our freedom because God is its source and its guarantee. Without this, we will always be in search for something else to fulfill us, and we will never understand true happiness. Fr. Philippe lays out a simple but important theme in&nbsp;Interior Freedom: "We gain possession of our interior freedom in proportion to our growth in faith, hope, and love." He explains that the dynamism between these three theological virtues is the heart of our spiritual life, and he underscores the key role of the virtue of hope in our spiritual growth. Written in a simple and inviting style,&nbsp;Interior Freedom&nbsp;seeks to liberate the heart and mind to live the true freedom to which God calls each of us.&nbsp;Get the most out of this book with our&nbsp;<a title="Interior Freedom Study Guide" href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/interior-freedom-study-guide">Interior Freedom Study Guide</a>.

Interior Freedom (audiobook)

Daily sparks to ignite prayer: a passage from the gospel, an idea, an anecdote and a priest who speaks with you and with the Lord inviting you to share your intimacy with God.
Find your moment, consider you're in his presence, and click play.

Ten Minutes With Jesus

Opening Credits

Chapter 1: A Completely New Way

Chapter 2: An Elevator For Small Children

Chapter 3: Being Reconciled to our Weakness

Chapter 4: Trusting More and More

Chapter 5: God's Infinite Mercy

Chapter 6: Enduring Trials

Chapter 7: Closing Credits

St. Th&eacute;r&egrave;se of Lisieux sought a new way to Heaven: &ldquo;a little way that is quite straight, quite short: a completely new little way.&rdquo; Blessed with personal limitations that might have discouraged another, Th&eacute;r&egrave;se believed God would not have given her a desire for holiness if He did not intend for her to achieve it. She learned to humbly accept herself as she was and trust completely in God&rsquo;s love.&nbsp;
First given as a retreat by renowned author Father Jacques Philippe,&nbsp;The Way of Trust and Love navigates excerpts of St. Th&eacute;r&egrave;se&rsquo;s writings phrase by phrase, extracting powerful, resonating insights. To Th&eacute;r&egrave;se, the journey seemed &ldquo;little&rdquo; as she traveled it. A hundred and fifteen years after her death, the message of the young saint and Doctor of the Church has traveled around the world inspiring millions. With this newly translated study of her spirituality, many today will rediscover&mdash;or find for the first time&mdash;the relevance of &ldquo;the little way,&rdquo; in all seasons of life.

The Way of Trust and Love (audiobook)

Curated shows from Scepter authors, friends, and fans!

Podcasts

The year 2009 brought the 70th anniversary of the first publication of The Way by the founder of Opus Dei, who was a 37-year-old priest in Madrid when the book appeared. Since then this spiritual classic has gone into numerous translations and sold nearly 5 million copies worldwide. Read by popes, priests, mothers and fathers, students and working men and women around the world, its contents reflect the unique pastoral experiences and spiritual insights of its author, St. Josemaría Escrivá. 
 In Writing "The Way" Russell Shaw provides dramatic background information about the composition of this book in the difficult years before and during the civil war in Spain as well as important theological and ascetical interpretations from a variety of sources. It is a valuable help to the reader seeking to understand The Way better and apply its contents in his or her own life.

Writing "The Way"

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai to university students at Ernescliff College in Toronto on March 11, 2025.Matt 5, 20: Jesus said to his disciples: ‘If your virtue goes no deeper than that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never get into the kingdom of heaven.He speaks of virtue that is not deep. Only surface depth. Merely appearance. Its a real challenge that the Lord offered us. He wants something deeper, a more authentic line from you and me.Music: Original track of Michael Lee of Toronto, Ontario.Thumbnail: J. Kirk Richards of the judgment of Christ by Pilate.

Time to Go Deep

Doug discusses codependency in Marriage. He defines codependency and shares the importance of healing yourself before you can heal your marriage, and that finding the right therapist is key in the healing process. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Lupe - I was in this situation and I got out...That girl needs to run! (22:41)</li> <li>Sharon - Your advice frightens me. I wonder what the husband has to for them yo leave? (34:31)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources:&nbsp; &nbsp; Co-Dependents Anonymous <a href="https://coda.org/">https://coda.org/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://catholictherapists.com/">https://catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Psychotherapy <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/</a> &nbsp; The Forgiveness Institute <a href="https://internationalforgiveness.com/">https://internationalforgiveness.com/</a>

Navigating Codependency in Marriage

This is the last meditation of a retreat preached at Shellbourne Conference Centre in Valparaiso, IN, on December 31, 2024.
Mark 6: When the Sabbath was over, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James, and Salome bought spices so that they might go to anoint Jesus’ body. 2 Very early on the first day of the week, just after sunrise, they were on their way to the tomb 3 and they asked each other, “Who will roll the stone away from the entrance of the tomb?”
4 But when they looked up, they saw that the stone, which was very large, had been rolled away.
Music: Regi Stone, All Heavens Declares Catholic music on Youtube

Who Will Remove the Stone?

This time of year is an especially spectacular and special time to penetrate the question: Who is God? What can we know about God? On this podcast we are invited to reflect on the mystery that our God has become one of us and how every prayer and reception of the Sacraments focuses on this incredible Truth. We [could] begin answering these questions by focusing on the suffering and solidarity of Jesus’s humanity and the fact that Our Lord shared in every component of human life. And, in turn, our contemplation of Jesus&apos;s humanity becomes an example for our lives. As St. Paul wrote: &quot;Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father&quot; (Philippians 2:5-11). Continue reflecting on Our Lord&apos;s humanity by carving out time for mental prayer and adoration in front of the manger of the tabernacle. You will be transformed and you will be refueled. With His sentiments, you will be able to forgive; you will have the strength to bear your cross; and, most of all, you will be a light to others. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

God Has Become Visible

Doug discusses how vanity and pride can affect marriage. He also answers listener emails on how to deal with spouses who don’t respect their partner, or are verbally abusive. And how do you deal with a narcissist?

How does pride affect marriage (pt 2)

Like The Way, Furrow is the fruit of St. Josemaría's rich interior life and extensive experience as a pastor. Aphoristic and perfect for meditation, Furrow was written in order to encourage and ease personal prayer. These 1000 points for spiritual reflection are directed toward the whole human person: body and soul, nature and grace. With the skillful hand of an experienced and holy priest, St. Josemaría interweaves the divine and human and helps you see how to bring them into harmony in your own life.

Furrow (Mini Edition)

The Way is a practical guidebook for our spiritual life that offers insight into real life experiences. The points found in The Way came about from the fruit of St. Josemaria’s interior life paired with intense spiritual direction. He wrote frequently about what he was experiencing, and although the points touch on many facets of life, the core of St. Josemaria’s message is that we are all beloved children of God. In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan offers a reflection on key points from The Way that are useful for consideration in prayer. He brings a deeper appreciation to these points by explaining the meaning behind each point and shares what St. Josemaria was experiencing during that particular period in his life. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

"The Way": Points for Consideration

How can a person live his faith seriously in our time? Bishop Javier Echevarria takes up key questions of faith, God's existence, and the many ways people find their path to God. While focusing on the most important aspects of faith life, he also addresses the causes of the loneliness and isolation that afflict so many people today. Particularly insightful are his reflections on suffering. 
 Bishop Echevarria was born in Madrid, Spain in 1932. He worked closely with St. Josemaría Escrivá, the founder of Opus Dei, from 1953 until his death in 1975. Following the death of Bishop Alvaro del Portillo in 1994, he was elected Prelate of Opus Dei and in the following year ordained bishop by Pope John Paul II. 
 Bishop Echevarria has lived in Rome during the pontificates of six popes as well as during the Second Vatican Council. This experience, along with his many pastoral visits on six continents, gives him a broad knowledge of the situation of present-day believers and the challenges facing the Church throughout the world. He is the author of eight books.

Paths to God: Building a Christian Life in the 21st Century

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio delves into Christ’s new commandment to love one another as he has loved us emphasizing the “vertical” and “horizontal” aspects of this commandment, likening it to the shape of a Cross. Fr. Peter also explains how strengthening our prayer life empowers us to live out this commandment and how embracing a life of piety serves as the foundation for our spiritual journey. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/A-Brand-New-Commandment-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/a-brand-new-commandment/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

A Brand-New Commandment

This week, we are sharing a portion of the first chapter of James Stenson's book, Compass: A Handbook on Parent Leadership. This section provides a big picture approach to what character is.

Forming Character - Compass

Doug unpacks the importance of emotional intelligence in marriage. He defines emotional intelligence, and identifies 5 core components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. Doug also explains what to do if your spouse lacks emotional intelligence which includes avoiding sarcasm and sharing how you truly feel. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Deedee - I've been married and divorced twice. Should I consider a third marriage if the man lacks emotional intelligence? (45:51)</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a> &nbsp; 13 phrases that show low emotional intelligence <ol> <li>Calm down, you&rsquo;re overreacting.</li> <li>It&rsquo;s not that big of a deal.</li> <li>I&rsquo;m just being honest.</li> <li>You&rsquo;re lucky that&rsquo;s all you have to deal with.</li> <li>You always do this.</li> <li>That&rsquo;s not what I meant.</li> <li>Why are you being so dramatic?</li> <li>Well, that&rsquo;s just who I am.</li> <li>It&rsquo;s not my fault you feel that way.</li> <li>Stop being so negative.</li> <li>You&rsquo;re reading too much into this.</li> <li>It&rsquo;s not my problem.</li> <li>I don&rsquo;t care.</li> </ol>

Emotional Intelligence

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Ernescliff College on March 13, 2024. 
John 5:17-30: Jesus said to the Jews, ‘My Father goes on working, and so do I.’ But that only made them even more intent on killing him, because, not content with breaking the sabbath, he spoke of God as his own Father, and so made himself God’s equal.
He gives signs of his divinity, indicating that his actions are the work of the Father.
Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger commented this passage in 2002 on the occasion of a congress on Ordinary life, during the canonization of Saint Josemaría Escrivá in Rome. There were a number of articles published in Osservatore Romano, and his was the best: Letting God Work.
He was struck by the name, Opus Dei. Our Father said he didn’t want to be founder of anything, that he had not invented anything, that the Lord had simply made use of him. Thus it was not his work, but Opus Dei. He was only an instrument with which God had acted.
He let God work.
Thumbnail: James Tissot, Christ Reproving the Pharisees, 1836-1902, in Brooklyn Museum.
Music: Adrift among the infinite stars by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com

Letting God Work

Monica Hinderer joins Doug to continue their discussion on what kids notice about adults without the adults being aware of it. They also address parent and child interaction related to early childhood struggles. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Gracie - I am a lactation consultant and want to clarify that cortisol is not passed through breast milk. (10:45)</li> <li>Martha - Does the Church allow separation if a father is emotionally abusive to his child? (18:00)</li> <li>Sarah - I agree with most of your advice, but from my own experience of my parents&rsquo; divorce, it completely destroyed me. (29:51)</li> </ul>

Kids learn by example (Part 2)

Beloved by millions, The Way is St. Josemaría's spiritually rich collection of points for meditation and prayer. Genial but pointed, The Way is born out of deep Christian experience and aims at encouraging people to love God and live for Him. Says St. Josemaría: The 999 points which make up The Way were written with yearnings to see Christ, the light of the world. Anyone who reads it with the same yearnings will not have opened this book in vain. This mini edition fits easily into the most jammed purse or pocket.

The Way (Mini Edition)

Luke 6:39-42: "Why do you observe the splinter in your brother’s eye and never notice the plank in your own? How can you say to your brother, “Brother, let me take out the splinter that is in your eye,” when you cannot see the plank in your own? Hypocrite! Take the plank out of your own eye first, and then you will see clearly enough to take out the splinter that is in your brother’s eye.’"
This image of our Lord shows the importance of self knowledge. And that can't go anywhere if we are not humble. Josemaria said that we might become very good in something, but if we lack humility, were like building our temple on sand. Do I really know myself? My biggest defect. The gifts I have received? What area do I have to work on? What is your Achilles heel? Dominant defect. Something you’ve been struggling against. Perhaps today our self-knowledge is fragile, or superficial because we’ve become experts in presenting our best side in social media, in Instagram and Facebook.
Music: Recordações do passado (Souvenirs from the Past) a Valsa for piano (1885) by Ernesto Nazareth arranged by Bert Alink. Not monetized.
Thumbnail: Rembrandt, The artist in his studio, c.1629 Museum of Fine Arts, Boston.
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos
www.ernescliff.ca
www.opusdei.ca

Do I Know Myself?

Prologue

Chapter 1: Everyone a Saint

Chapter 2: The Chemist

Chapter 3: In Search of the Truth

Chapter 4: Commitment

Chapter 5: Freedom and Responsibility

Chapter 6: A Dedicated Woman: From Madrid to Mexico

Chapter 7: Bearing Fruit: Rome

Chapter 8: A Big Heart

Chapter 9: The Last Battle

Epilogue

The End

It often happens that a call to holiness and devotion to Christ touches the heart amidst immense suffering. A young girl named Guadalupe experienced such a call while living through the trials of her family and country as a result of the Spanish Civil War.&nbsp;
Guadalupe Ortiz, the first woman of Opus Dei to be beatified, had a style of sanctity that attracted others. She was known as determined, joyful, and a source of peaceful strength. As one of the earliest woman members of Opus Dei, she took seriously her calling to bring the love of Christ to her work and her daily life.
Her relatability is what makes her remarkable. As an individual often faced with challenges, a dedicated scientist and teacher, and a devoted friend and daughter, we can all identify with the stories and themes that make up her beautiful life.

Guadalupe: the Freedom of Loving (audiobook)

Eucharistic Meditations offers extracts from the Writings and Instructions of Saint John Vianney.

Eucharistic Meditations

In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan examines three critical players in our spiritual life: the intellect, will, and heart. He offers a view of our life as a “journey back home,” relating the perilous journey in Homer’s Odyssey as a way of understanding the dangers confronting the Christian life in the modern world.“What a shame it would be,” he says, “to allow our day, our life, to be shipwrecked by the sirens of YouTube, a Netflix series, or Tik Tok.” Ultimately, Odysseus and his crew made it home because they knew the sirens were a “deadly menace,” and they did everything in their power to overcome them.If we form our intellect, will, and heart, giving each faculty its proper place, we too will overcome the obstacles that assail us on our journey Home. And we must totally commit to our destination: with all the power of our intellect, the strength of our will, and the passion of our heart. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Heading-Home-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Heading Home

Fr. Ramil Fajardo joins Doug from the Marriage Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Chicago to discuss declarations of nullity in the Church. They unpack the formal process, lack of form, and speak to the power of proper marriage preparation.

Valid and Invalid Marriages

Fr. Paul Donlan&#39;s meditation on the Gospel of Luke’s story of Martha and Mary of Bethany, highlights the tension between active service and contemplative prayer. Martha as the competent, bustling hostess and Mary as the attentive listener at Jesus’ feet. Martha’s frustration at Mary’s lack of help leads her to complain—even command—Jesus, to which He gently responds that Mary has chosen “the better part.” Traditionally, Martha has represented the active life and Mary the contemplative, but that Christians are called to integrate both: to live “actively contemplative and contemplatively active.” Fr. Paul warns against “activism,” which loses interior connection to Christ, and urges cultivating an inner contemplative spirit even amid daily duties, whether family tasks, professional work, or in the daily commute - transforming ordinary moments into prayer. Stories of saints like Josemaría Escrivá and images of the Holy Family illustrate how everyday work can be suffused with awareness of God. Ultimately, combining service with contemplation becomes a prayerful offering to Christ.

Actively Contemplative, Contemplatively Active

In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the fact that &quot;we&apos;re not called to make it [to Heaven] by the skin of our teeth.&quot; We are called to make use of all of our time on earth to become saints. But, as St. Josemaria Escriva said, &quot;Time is short, too short to love!&quot; Therefore, Our Lord wants us always to have an overarching goal, which is holiness.This doesn&apos;t mean that we don&apos;t have other interests, explains Fr. Peter, or that we must become indifferent to everything else. What it does mean is that we are called to make this phrase our mission statement: &quot;I&apos;m going to put the love of Christ into everything I do.&quot;Rather than fearing the judgment of God at the end of our lives, Fr. Peter counsels us to be afraid of not having loved enough. &quot;The meaning of human life, and especially Christian life,&quot; he says, &quot;is to fill [our] day with deeds of love.&quot; And, in this way, to become saints.<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Time-Is-Short.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Time Is Short

“Each and every event of this life, without exception, must be steps which take you to God, which move you to know him and love him, to give him thanks, and to strive to make everyone else know and love him” (St. Josemaria Escriva; The Forge, no. 680). In this meditation from Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, we are invited to reflect upon work as a medium for prayer, using the hidden life of Jesus as an example. Before beginning his public ministry, Jesus spent many years working as a carpenter. Though nothing is written about these years, St. Josemaria considered this silence to be an inspiration of the Holy Spirit, exemplifying the ordinariness which characterized Jesus’s life until he began his public ministry. Thus, when we echo the Apostles’ request “Lord, teach us to pray” (Luke 11:1) we can hear Jesus’s response through his lived example. Work is a place where we are meant to encounter God daily. The idea of “sanctification of work” is simple, but the process is not easy. Fr. Peter explains that a personal life of prayer outside of work is the driving force behind our ability to sanctify our work, since sanctification of work is not about perfecting a routine as much as it is about giving a gift of love. As such, conversation with the Lord in mental prayer, frequenting the Sacraments, and making regular aspirations and acts of love are foundational to being able to sanctify our work, as they increase our love. Likewise, laxity in our spiritual norms can detract from our ability to sanctify our work, as there is less love given in that work. Ultimately, the one who prays more is the one who loves more. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Turning Work into Prayer

St. Josemaria Escriva, the founder of Opus Dei, did not write theological treatises. His was a pastoral activity that led him largely to preach and to pen letters and instructions, mostly for members of the Work that he founded. But his thoughts are knit together by a careful, loving meditation and contemplation of the word of God which caused them to yield new lights to readers in the most varied situations. Without doubt many of these are linked to a heightened awareness of divine filiation—our relationship with God as his sons and daughters.
 "Divine filiation is a joyful truth, a consoling mystery. It fills our spiritual life, showing us how to speak to God, how to know and love our heavenly Father. It makes our interior struggle overflow with hope and gives us the trusting simplicity of little children." These lines are taken from a meditation given by Saint Josemaría in March of 1952. In this short God as Father book, Fr. Ocariz offers "a preliminary attempt" at analyzing and collating the truly impressive theological richness of Saint Escriva's teaching on divine filiation.

God as Father

Fr. Peter Armenio, an Opus Dei priest, reminds us that St. Josemaria was inspired by the light of God with the mission to bring Christ into the heart of the entire world in a way that He had never been before. Into a world that is gripped by a culture of death; to be healed by the intervention of God’s Mercy. “God is the same as always. It is men of faith that are needed: and then, there will be a renewal of the wonders we read of in the Gospel” (St. Josemaria; The Way, no. 586). Faith filled children of God are called to participate in this beautiful mission. We are to replicate both the joy and the affection of Our Lord Jesus Christ. This can be done if first a well formed interior life of prayer is established, for it is our prayer life that exudes this joy, the light of Christ. Fr. Peter refers to what St. Gregory Nazianzen wrote in his Oration #39 that, “[God] wants you to become a living force for all mankind, lights shinning in the world.” This is no ordinary light he speaks of; it is a light in which we are bathed in the glory of God. Let us ask Our Blessed Mother Mary to help us enter into the light, the light of her Son, which is nothing more and nothing less than the Mercy of God. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

No Ordinary Light

Theology & Catechesis

Become the leader you were made to be with the&nbsp;Leading Citizen Lecture Series&nbsp;from <a href="https://thomasmorestudies.org/">The Center for Thomas More Studies</a>

Leading Citizen Lecture Series

Doug tackles the different ways that pride can affect marriage and gives practical ways to overcome this vice. He also takes listener questions on what to do if your spouse doesn't want to spend time with you.

How does pride affect marriage?

On today&apos;s podcast we are reminded, for our contemplation, of the words Pope Benedict XVI offered on the meaning of freedom: “Who is freer than the One who is the Almighty? He did not, however, live his freedom as an arbitrary power or as domination. He lived it as a service. In this way he ‘filled’ freedom with content, which would otherwise have remained an ‘empty’ possibility of doing or not doing something. . .freedom draws its meaning from love . . .” If it is true happiness that we are looking for when seeking freedom, then we should observe the actions of Jesus Christ.  He himself showed us how to be obedient to God the Father no matter the cost. And, in return, God the Father nourishes Jesus’ strength to carry out his act of love for the Father.  This is the model the saints chose to follow and it would be wise for us to do the same. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Freedom

Are you seeking to draw near to Our Lord more each day? In our meditation of the week, Fr. Eric Nicolai reflects on the inspiring figure of Zacchaeus from the Gospel of St. Luke—a tax collector with a tarnished reputation among his Jewish peers, yet driven by a sincere desire to encounter Jesus. Despite his shame, Zacchaeus took bold steps to draw near to the Lord as he passed by. Fr. Eric highlights Zacchaeus’ promptness and initiative, which opened him to the transformative grace of conversion—a grace he received through his own generosity of heart. Fr. Eric challenges us to adopt this same initiative in our interior life, emphasizing the importance of humble self-examination and a willingness to begin again. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Beginning-Again-Again-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/beginning-again-and-again/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Beginning Again & Again

What happens if you lose faith in your husband? What do you do if there is physical abuse in your marriage? What&nbsp;do you do when you learn secrets about your spouse's past? Doug answers these questions and more. Plus: The Friday Rant! Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Rebecca - My husband is going through a midlife crisis and left the family. What should I do? (21:00)</li> <li>Erica - Why would adultery at any time during marriage not count for an annulment? (39:15)</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts - Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Fixing broken marriages

A corrected version of the meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College, Dec 7, 2023.
Matt 7, 24-27: Therefore, everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a sensible man who built his house on rock.
Music: Carlos Gardel, Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Eugene Burnand, House on Rock, 1890s.

Built on Rock (corrected version)

Sanctifying Ordinary Work

Opus Dei (the Work of God) is a worldwide institution of the Catholic Church. Its members, lay men and women and secular priests, strive to practice the Christian virtues, while remaining in their own state and position in life and pursuing their own occupations and ordinary work in society. In this way they carry out the apostolate of making the doctrine of Christ known by their example and word. The aim of Opus Dei is to help people of all social levels and professions appreciate the dignity of the Christian vocation and the consequences that arise from it. Opus Dei provides its members with the spiritual means and formation they need in order to live a life proper to a Christian who seeks to live out the implications of his faith. It helps them to do this in a specific way &mdash; with freedom and responsibility, in the world, among the realities that make up their ordinary work.

Sanctifying Ordinary Work (audiobook)

What happens if you lose faith in your husband? What do you do if there is physical abuse in your marriage? What&nbsp;do you do when you learn secrets about your spouse's past? Doug answers these questions and more. Plus: The Friday Rant! Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Rebecca - My husband is going through a midlife crisis and has left the family. What should I do? (20:03)</li> <li>Erica - Why would adultery at any time during marriage not count for an annulment? (37:41)</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts - Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

These books help readers deepen their relationship with God through prayer, reflection, and the practice of Christian virtues. Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, and everyday experience, they offer practical guidance for growing in faith amid the challenges of daily life. Whether exploring prayer, holiness in ordinary work, or the pursuit of virtue, these titles encourage readers to live with greater purpose, trust in God, and love for others.

Spiritual Growth

Do your kids learn more about what you say or what you do? Today, Monica Hinderer joins Doug to discuss things kids notice about adults without the adults being aware of it. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Teresa - My son is 30 years old, but when he was 7 years old, I was fighting with my husband and said quietly 'I hate you' about my husband. My son was not happy. (18:53)</li> <li>Teresa - Our communication with our children can build them up or break them down. My mom always compared me to other children and it really hurt. (22:01)</li> <li>Dianna &ndash; My 16-year-old thinks she 'knows it all'. She corrects me in front of my spouse and doesn't take reprimands well. (26:14)</li> <li>Matthew - My son said my wife thinks I&rsquo;m stupid. What should I do? (34:31)</li> </ul>

Kids learn by example

In this podcast, part of our <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/day-of-recollection-october-2021/'>Day of Recollection resources for the month of October</a>, Fr. Javier del Castillo reflects on pursuing sainthood in and through the realities of our ordinary work. Fr. Javier illustrates this principle by incorporating examples from the hidden life of Christ and lessons from the parables in Scripture. He explains that, “if we let the Lord give supernatural prominence to our work, we will be able to sanctify our own work, sanctify ourselves in our work, and sanctify others through our work.” [<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Sanctifying-Ordinary-Work-Transcript.pdf'>Transcript</a>] <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Work is a fundamental element of human life that claims much of our time. Consider Jesus' 30 years as a carpenter under the tutelage of St. Joseph! Our natural tendency can be to often curse or shirk its presence in life, instead of recognizing its true value as a source of personal development, improvement of society, and means of holiness and apostolate. 
The core part of the book is a dialogue between numerous scholars and Msgr. Fernando Ocáriz about the message of St. Josemaría Escrivá, one of the great teachers of modern spirituality, who has taught us to sanctify work, to sanctify oneself at work, and to sanctify others through work.
Use these words to reflect on the meaning of work in your own life and to learn how to change your perception of work as a burden into work as a source of sanctification.

Holiness Through Work

What if the journey itself is the very vocation you&#39;re looking for? Fr. Leo Austin reflects on how the Christian life is a daily, present-moment walk toward heaven — one that requires renewal, awareness, and joy rather than fear. Drawing on Scripture, personal anecdotes, and practical examples, Fr. Leo emphasizes that vocation isn’t something that begins in the future but is lived now through small acts of responsibility, prayer, love, and generosity. Everything in life is temporary except the soul, and Jesus invites us to trust Him, embrace the present, and live with meaningful purpose today, not someday.

It's The Final Countdown

Today on the podcast… We contemplate how, the renewal of the church many years ago, began in the monasteries with intense prayer of loving Christ and living a life of penance.  Now, St. Josemaria Escriva says to bring that contemplative prayer into our daily lives, in the thick of things, at the party, on the soccer field, at the library, in the court of law, and at home. In our personal relationship with Christ let us ask him: To transmit His light through us in the form of joy, affection, kindness, and the spirit of service. To find us in the silence of our prayer. To truly help us learn to be contemplative in the middle of the world.Let us ask Our Lady to help us throughout the day to contemplate on the real presence of Christ in our lives –to pray without ceasing. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Interior Silence

Are you concerned about the number of young people who are abandoning the faith? Are you afraid of forcing the faith on your children? Monica Hinderer, LCPC joins Doug to discuss the importance of passing on the faith to your children. They unpack tips for passing on the faith and the importance of parents leading by example. &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; The Weight of a Mass <a href="https://holyheroes.com/products/the-weight-of-a-mass?srsltid=AfmBOorygmJ7ducfAEZM3vJj6DE7QtmzpNR6PmuI9tuNtebosVwtsU7f">https://holyheroes.com/products/the-weight-of-a-mass?srsltid=AfmBOorygmJ7ducfAEZM3vJj6DE7QtmzpNR6PmuI9tuNtebosVwtsU7f</a> &nbsp; The Lamb&rsquo;s Supper <a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/product/the-lambs-supper-the-mass-as-heaven-on-earth/">https://stpaulcenter.com/product/the-lambs-supper-the-mass-as-heaven-on-earth/</a> &nbsp; Mass Explained for Kids <a href="https://paulinestore.com/mass-explained-for-kids-r-6843-178193.html">https://paulinestore.com/mass-explained-for-kids-r-6843-178193.html</a> &nbsp; A Biblical Walk Through the Mass <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Walk-Through-Mass-Book/dp/1935940007">https://www.amazon.com/Biblical-Walk-Through-Mass-Book/dp/1935940007</a> &nbsp; A Missal For Children <a href="https://bookstore.magnificat.net/a-missal-for-children.html">https://bookstore.magnificat.net/a-missal-for-children.html</a> &nbsp; My First Interactive Mass Book <a href="https://shop.catholicsupply.com/my-first-interactive-mass-book-hc.aspx">https://shop.catholicsupply.com/my-first-interactive-mass-book-hc.aspx</a> &nbsp; Parenting for Eternity: A Guide to Raising Children in Holy Mother Church <a href="https://tanbooks.com/products/books/parenting-for-eternity-a-guide-to-raising-children-in-holy-mother-church/?srsltid=AfmBOooxJ-QPMKvCwZupRP4VzUiu7cXZ1MYTGB1gt-e-xVECQtbE5ygN">https://tanbooks.com/products/books/parenting-for-eternity-a-guide-to-raising-children-in-holy-mother-church/?srsltid=AfmBOooxJ-QPMKvCwZupRP4VzUiu7cXZ1MYTGB1gt-e-xVECQtbE5ygN</a>

Leading by Example

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Javier del Castillo reflects on the meaning of St. Josemaria’s teaching that, “An hour of study, for a modern apostle, is an hour of prayer” (The Way, no. 335). Approaching academic learning as a form of prayer is not a way of life designed solely for students. Rather, it is a way of life that all Christians should adopt as it helps us develop a stronger worldview. Fr. Javier discusses how we are to approach Scripture, the lives of the saints, and the writings of the Church Fathers as a form of prayer. He also explains how to overcome three common obstacles – lust, curiosity, and falsehood – that inhibit our desire to study. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Study-and-Prayer-Transcript-1.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/study-and-prayer/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Study and Prayer

Doug shares 9 "pink flags" to pay attention to when dating. Doug discusses how success often depends on what flaws and defects you can live with and speaks to the importance of standing firm with your non-negotiable standards. PLUS: The Friday Rant! Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - How do you tell as an older woman that a man isn't just dating you for your money? (36:47)</li> <li>Mark - I lost my wife five years ago. I met a woman who is ten years younger than me. She still wears her wedding ring. Should I back off? (39:10)</li> </ul> 9 &ldquo;pink flags&rdquo; to pay attention to when dating. <ol> <li>You&rsquo;ve never had an argument.</li> <li>You show affection in different ways.</li> <li>You sense that they&rsquo;re hiding something.</li> <li>They aren&rsquo;t reliable or consistent.</li> <li>Technology is a big distraction.</li> <li>They avoid defining your relationship.</li> <li>Emotional safety is compromised.</li> <li>There is a history of betrayal.</li> <li>Your relationship has changed for the worst.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Proceed with Caution

Jesus spoke these words, “For I tell you, that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:20). In this passage, Fr. Peter Armenio, an Opus Dei priest, points out that we must not lack repentance, love for God, and affection and compassion for others, especially those alienated from God. Our Lord calls us to love our neighbor, for when we are loving our neighbor; we are loving God. In the spirit of St. Josemaria Escriva’s charism of living daily life, we can look at this quote from Archbishop Nguyen Van Thuan (1928-2002), when addressing the Lord, “I will no longer look back but do willingly, simply, humbly, and bravely the duties which come from the circumstances in which I find myself, as your will.” Then again, “ I want to turn every minute that remains in my life into an act of love.” These words can become our daily mantra when we are faced with our daily crosses and are struggling interiorly for the strength to carry them. <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Interior Struggle

Writings of the Founder of Opus Dei

St. Josemaría Escrivá

Drs. Michael and Catherine Pakaluk join Doug to discuss Catholic second marriages. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Steve - We are part of a second marriage retreat and we help with second marriage prep. (23:05)</li> <li>Joanna - I read Catherine's book and I love it! (25:07)</li> <li>Linda - My boyfriend and I both lost our spouses and we have children. I love him but his children just don&rsquo;t like me. Is it ok to not think about marriage? (27:10)</li> <li>Deedee - What does canon law say about a marriage after the death the first spouse? Does the second marriage need to be sacramental? (31:16)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Hannah's Children: The Women Quietly Defying the Birth Dearth <a href="https://ignatius.com/hannahs-children-hchh/">https://ignatius.com/hannahs-children-hchh/</a>

Second Marriages

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Scepter Publishers' course series offers a deep dive into the intersection of spiritual formation, ethical leadership, and civic duty. These programs are designed for those seeking to integrate their faith with their professional and public lives.
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Courses

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto, on March 4, 2023.&nbsp;
During Lent our goal is that of St. Paul: &nbsp;"I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me." (Gal 2, 20).
This identification with Christ has 4 steps in a staircase towards Christ Jesus. The first step in this staircase is the most superficial one: Corporal mortification. The next step in the staircase is the care of little things. The third step is interior mortification. Finally the most difficult step, number 4, is passive mortification.
Music: Chiquinha Gonzaga composer, Lua Branca (Guitar Bert Alink)&nbsp;
Thumbnail: First Temptation of Christ. Stained glass possibly from the collegiate church of Saint-Etienne. London, Victoria and Albert Museum, C. 1907-1919.
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos