Dora del Hoyo was Opus Dei's first Assistant Numerary when she asked to be admitted in 1946. Later that year she moved to Rome. With her hidden work and robust self-giving, she was of inestimable help to St. Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute; and for Opus Dei's expansion throughout the world.
She was a lighted lamp for all those who lived, worked, or come in touch with her. Her influence now continues to spread around the world as we get to know the story of this remarkable woman. In love with Christ, with Opus Dei, and with her work, she died youthful and happy, a day short of her ninetieth birthday. Dora del Hoyo's Cause of Canonization began in 2012. This biography tells her story and relates a few of the many favors people from around the world have received through her intercession.&nbsp;

A Lighted Lamp: Dora del Hoyo (audiobook)

This second volume of the three-volume biography of St. Josemar√≠a covers one of the most remarkable periods of his life: from the outbreak of the civil war in 1936 to his departure for Rome in 1946. In Republican Spain fierce anti-Catholic persecution led St. Josemar√≠a to do his priestly work in secret, fully aware that if caught, he would be executed - as were 6000 other priests. This book recounts the saint's dangerous journey across the Pyrenees to the Nationalist zone, where he could exercise his priestly ministry more freely, his tireless labors to counter (with both heroic charity and determination) the slanders that threatened to overwhelm Opus Dei, and more. Here is an unforgettable picture of the saint's activity during the years of crisis that threatened to obliterate his great gift to the church: Opus Dei.

The Founder of Opus Dei, Volume II - God and Daring

Is Christian life growing in and around you?Concluding our Easter Mini-Series: In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio shares a meditation on the relationship between contrition and our effectiveness as an evangelizer, in which both are dependent upon the other. Fr. Peter explains that contrition of our sinfulness propels us in a positive direction for we are admitting to the Lord we cannot go forward on our own but instead need his grace and love. By drawing closer to Christ through repentance and contrition, we are filled with the Holy Spirit and, like Peter, we are called to feed the sheep in the flock of Christ through giving witness in word and deed.St. Josemaria explains: “Whenever sanctity is genuine, it overflows from its vessel to fill other hearts, other souls, with its superabundance. We, the children of God, sanctify ourselves by sanctifying others. Is Christian life growing around you? Consider this everyday” (The Forge, no. 856). <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/Part-Three-Feed-My-Sheep-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Part Three: Feed My Sheep | The Restoration of Peter: An Easter Mini-Series

On May 17, 1992, Pope John Paul II beatified Josemar√≠a Escriv√° de Balaguer. Ten years later, on October 6, 2002, he was proclaimed a saint. "He was chosen by God," affirmed the Roman pontiff, "to announce the universal call to holiness and to indicate that daily life, common activities, are a path of sanctification. It could be said that he was the Saint of the Ordinary." 
 On September 14, 2005, Pope Benedict XVI blessed a statue of St. Josemar√≠a placed on the walls of St. Peter's Basilica, with the inscription from Sacred Scripture that summarizes his mission of serving the Church: "Et ego, si exaltatus fuero a terra, omnes traham ad meipsum"‚Äî"And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself " ( John 12:32). St. Josemar√≠a understood that with these words, "Our Lord was telling us: if you put me at the heart of all earthly activities by fulfilling the duty of each moment, and bear witness to me in what seems big and in what seems small, then: omnia traham ad meipsum! My kingdom among you will become a reality!" (Notes from a meditation preached on October 10, 1963) 
 The present work, in three volumes, is the first attempt to gather together systematically the whole of St. Josemar√≠a's message about the sanctification of professional work and all daily life. 
Volume 1
 After presenting the historical-theological framework for St. Josemar√≠a's teaching and the audience to whom it was directed, lay Christians and secular priests, this first volume delineates the purpose of the Christian life. This spiritual theology book has three central themes: giving glory to God by seeking to be contemplatives in daily life; seeking the reign of Christ by putting him at the summit of all human activities, and cooperating with the Holy Spirit in building up the Church by personal sanctification and apostolate.

Ordinary Life and Holiness, Volume 1

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ipray-he-who-humbles-himself'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

He Who Humbles Himself Will Be Exalted | iPray with the Gospel - 30th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Do you tell your spouse that you love them every day? Today, Doug shares 11 ways to say I love you without saying the words. Listener question and comments: <ul> <li>Keri - I used to leave little notes in my husband&rsquo;s socks or in his suitcase, sharing what he means to me. (14:04)</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> &nbsp; Showing your love without saying &ldquo;I love you&rdquo;. <ol> <li>How can I make your day better?</li> <li>What can I do to help you?</li> <li>Thank you for being you.</li> <li>I will always be here for you.</li> <li>You make me a better person.</li> <li>I trust you completely.</li> <li>I&rsquo;m proud of you.</li> <li>I can&rsquo;t wait to see what the future holds for us.</li> <li>Let&rsquo;s figure this out together.</li> <li>You&rsquo;re my best friend.</li> <li>What would I do without you?</li> </ol>

Loving your spouse without saying “I love you”

Has anyone ever told you to let go and let God? In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shares a reflection on the Gospel scene in which Martha welcomes Christ into her home (Luke 10:38-42) and reveals to us the meaning of letting go and letting God into our lives. In the Gospel passage, we notice Martha become caught up in the activity and details of serving Christ which inhibit her from fully enjoying the presence of Christ in her home. This theme is echoed in society today with a strong push for perfectionism in our work and at home. To contradict this vice, Fr. Javier reminds us to identify the intention behind our work so that we may continue to glorify God in all that we do. Working with intention allows us to be receptive to the grace of the Holy Spirit and helps us to recognize the presence of Christ in the ordinary moments of everyday life. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Let Go & Let God: The Feast of St. Martha

Listen in to the first half of St. Josemaria Escriva's homily for the Easter season. This episode contains points 102-107.

Christ's Presence in Christians (Part 1) - Christ is Passing By

Today's reading comes from a homily given by St. Josemaria Escriva entitled A Priest Forever. It can be found in the book In Love with the Church

A Priest Forever - In Love with the Church

Luke 1:39-56: Mary set out and went as quickly as she could to a town in the hill country of Judah. She went with haste. She goes with haste. There is a sense of responsibility here. She knows and understands her mission. Her purpose. It has been said that after the consultation with the angel, she found her mission, her role in the theo-drama. She had pledged to accomplish it, and was excited. The ego-drama is the play that I’m writing, I’m producing, I’m directing, and I’m starring in.
God taps on our shoulder to tell us what he invites us to do.
Music: The Meeting of the Waters Arranged and played by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Master of the Life of the Virgin, The Visitation with a portrait of donor Johann von Hirtz, 1462.

God is Tapping On Your Shoulder: an Examination of the Visitation

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai on October 15, 2025 at Kintore College, Toronto. Today we celebrate Theresa of Avila, this 16th century mystic, who died in 1582. Her conversion led her to reform her order, emphasizing poverty, prayer, and contemplative life. Juan Diego was her contemporary, thousands of kilometers away in Mexico. Both discovered the nature of confidence in God, gounded in the inside of the soul. Music: Michael Lee of Toronto.

Clean the Inside of the Cup: Theresa of Avila's Example

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-sixth-sunday-of-easter'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

iPray with the Gospel - Sixth Sunday of Easter

Created for Greatness explains the virtue of magnanimity, a virtue capable of setting the tone of your entire life, transforming it, giving it new meaning and leading to the flourishing of your personality. Magnanimity is the willingness to undertake great tasks; it is the source of human greatness. Along with humility, it is a virtue specific to true leaders emboldened by the desire to achieve greatness by bringing out the greatness in others. Complete with practical steps and points for personal examination, this book will not only inspire you, but will place you firmly on the path to a more magnanimous life.

Created for Greatness

In this episode, Dr. Smith takes us on a voyage into Thomas More&rsquo;s puzzling little masterpiece about the distant island of Utopia. On our approach, we&rsquo;ll view a snapshot of a day in the busy life of a leading citizen, and we&rsquo;ll take stock of the benefits More associates with the careful and immersive reading of great literature.
&nbsp;
What makes a good reader? Should talented individuals jump into political service, or run in the other direction? What are the requirements for a good conversation&mdash;what does it take to get someone to say &ldquo;what they really think&rdquo;? And what exactly is the best form of a commonwealth? Through the course of this lecture, Dr. Smith will walk us through&nbsp;Utopia&rsquo;s unique contribution to these questions and many, many more.
&nbsp;
Texts Referenced in this Course Video:
<ul>
<li><a href="https://essentialmore.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">Essential Works of Thomas More</a></li>
<li>Utopia,&nbsp;CTMS 2023 edition,&nbsp;<a href="https://thomasmorestudies.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/CTMS-Utopia-2023.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">here on the CTMS website</a></li>
<li>More&rsquo;s Prefatory Letter to Thomas Ruthall (1506),&nbsp;Essential Works&nbsp;pgs. 20-21</li>
<li>More&rsquo;s translations of Lucian&rsquo;s &ldquo;The Cynic,&rdquo; &ldquo;Menippus,&rdquo; and &ldquo;The Lover of Lies,&rdquo;&nbsp;Essential Works&nbsp;pgs. 22-44</li>
<li>More&rsquo;s Letter to the University of Oxford (1518),&nbsp;Essential Works&nbsp;pgs. 416-420</li>
<li>A Dialogue of Sir Thomas More, Knight, also called&nbsp;A Dialogue Concerning Heresies&nbsp;(1530), Essential Works pgs. 527-733; a version is available&nbsp;<a href="https://thomasmorestudies.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/DialogueConcerningHeresies2015-etext.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">here on the CTMS website</a></li>
</ul>
&nbsp;
Additional study materials are available&nbsp;<a href="https://essentialmore.org/studymaterials/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">here</a>.
See the map of More&rsquo;s London&nbsp;<a href="https://essentialmore.org/map/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer">here</a>.

LECTURE 2 — Leading Citizens and a Life of Good Service: Utopia

Good Use of Time gathers together wisdom of the ages that will help you appreciate and wisely administer the limited amount of time at your disposal. Before one can benefit from calendars, to-do lists, and organizational tactics, one needs to understand some important principles related to time and its proper use. These principles are summarized in traditional sayings like: 

‚Ä¢He has more who needs less
‚Ä¢Urgent things can wait
‚Ä¢Make haste slowly
‚Ä¢Put your heart into what you are doing

 By meditating on the lessons found in this little book, you will learn to treasure every moment of your life as an opportunity to serve God and others. 
Each order includes three (3) books. ¬†So you can keep one, and have two to give to friends.

Good Use of Time: 11 Principles to Live By

Doug talks about how to heal family tensions now that the election is over. He reads an email from a listener whose son refuses to come home for Thanksgiving because of the outcome of the election. Doug exhorts listeners to pray for peace, and avoid trying to change their spouse or loved ones. Callers share experiences of political tension in their families. Plus: The Friday Rant!

Healing political tension in marriage

Concluding our Easter series, To and From Emmaus: In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on how the disciples’ encounter with Jesus Christ along the road to Emmaus serves as a template of evangelization, and how true evangelization is the ultimate fruit of our prayer and interior life. Jesus profoundly affected the hearts of his two companions – the disciples sense their hearts being uplifted, they sense that they are loved and affirmed, they sense the kindness and affection of Christ, and they become recipients of his joy and peace. We learn from Our Lord, therefore, that the way of true evangelization doesn’t necessarily consist in an ability to win theological debates nor does it consist in constant moralizing or defending good moral causes. These are all important elements of evangelization, but what’s essential in the work of true evangelization is that we attract, we encounter, and we accompany. [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Transcript-Part-Seven-Interior-Life-the-Heart-of-Evangelization.pdf'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Interior Life: The Heart of Evangelization | Part Seven

JL Marti joins Doug to discuss the devotion to Our Lady of Fair Love sharing how her intercession helps heal marriages and broken families. Doug also goes to the mailbag giving marriage advice on words of affirmation, reconciliation in marriage, and building a strong foundation of communication. &nbsp; Resources: Fairest Love Family Project <a href="https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/">https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/</a> &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Our Lady of Fair Love

"Let us break their bonds asunder and let us cast away their yoke from us." Psalm 2: 3Welcome to Verse 3! Today, we jump right into this new verse as Louis, Pat, and Jake explore bonds and yokes in spiritual life, including how we perceive restrictions from God, why love is the greatest bond, and how embracing our vocations and relationships can be divine gifts. They discuss the double meaning of bonds as both restrictions and connections, share the story of Samson and his divine calling, and talk about how love serves as the perfect bond in Christian life. Additionally, they'll examine how restrictions can actually be divine gifts and highlight the importance of embracing both our divine and human relationships.Don't miss this episode!

Verse 3, Part 1 - The Hidden Power of Bonds

In this episode of The Dad Project, Jim Tierney discusses the need for dads to model good friendships as both husbands and fathers. Jim is co-founder of The Dad Project. He and his wife have 10 children.


Podcast Production Services by NCC Audio - https://nccaudio.com

Episode 29: Friendship in the Home

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ipray-transfiguration-of-our-lord'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Transfiguration of Our Lord | iPray with the Gospel

A meditation preached at Kintore College on April 15, 2025, Holy Wednesday. Matt 26, 25: One of the Twelve, the man called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, ‘What are you prepared to give me if I hand him over to you?’ They paid him thirty silver pieces, and from that moment he looked for an opportunity to betray him. Such painful words, at an agonizing time for our Lord. He was chosen as one of the apostles. One for who he had dreams. The most painful realities are not physical. It is the weight of abandonment, betrayal and rejection.Music: Michael Lee, of TorontoThumbnail: Giotto, Betrayal of Jesus, fresco in Padua, Scrovegni chapel 1304.

The Betrayal of Judas

In this podcast, Fr. Donncha Ó hAodha offers a profound reflection on St. Josemaria Escriva as a great teacher of prayer to help us renew our awareness of the essential nature of prayer and how transformative it is. In society, we tend to measure things by people&apos;s doings and achievements. But what ultimately gives value to any life is communion with Christ. Without prayer, nothing! With prayer, everything! Prayer produces the fine wine of Christian holiness in and around us. Prayer fills ordinary life with the greatness of God. Our Christian faith teaches us that it is God who seeks man out. He does everything to seek us out and to win our hearts. Therefore, we don&apos;t want our prayer to be purely formal, routine, or superficial. We want our prayer to be a genuine conversation, an expression of love, and real communion. To learn how to do this well, we have the example of Our Lady, because there is nobody who surpasses her in the life of prayer. She also reminds us that a person who prays, who seeks an encounter with Christ, leaves a deep, lasting, and somehow eternal imprint on history. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/School-of-Prayer-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/at-the-school-of-prayer/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

At the School of Prayer with St. Josemaria

<ul> <li>(5:01) – Doug helps Shannon discern who to Marry?</li> <li>(10:22) – Doug discusses how emotions and behaviors are connected in a relationship.</li> </ul> (14:32) Break 1 <ul> <li>(16:10) - How to improve your marriage without the help of your spouse? Doug shares 4 secrets.</li> <li>Becky - Loves the title of the show today!</li> <li>(23:37) – (Continued) How to improve your marriage without the help of your spouse? Doug shares 4 secrets.</li> </ul> (33:21) Break 2 <ul> <li>Doug answers an email about how to find a good Catholic therapist.  <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a></li> <li>Barbara - Marriage advice - Do 3 kind acts a day for your spouse</li> <li>(37:46) - Doug Shares how to find out what will be bad for your marriage.</li> <li>Joanie - Parents fell in love at 13 and 15. Wants to give testimony</li> </ul>

Marriage Unhindered – March 16, 2024 – Fix Marriage Without Your Spouse?

Have you ever found yourself focusing on your spouse&rsquo;s defects? Doug discusses the dog biscuit theory of marriage and shares how to drive out the negativity in a relationship by focusing on what positive behaviors your spouse possesses. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Janet - I have a 30-year-old son who is trying to marry. He had a problem with alcohol and he met somebody who works at a bar and this girl is posting revealing photos on her Instagram. What should I do? (38:27)</li> <li>Julie - You are totally right about forgiveness. I was cheated on and found videos of it. I went to counseling thinking I was the problem only to find out it was him. It was only after talking with God that I was able to forgive my ex-husband for what he had done. (42:04)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Steps to turning from the negative to the positive <ol> <li>Catch the negative thought</li> <li>Make a different choice</li> <li>Rewrite the story</li> <li>Reward yourself</li> </ol> 3 steps to putting the Dog Biscuit Theory into practice <ol> <li>Beware of fault finding and criticism</li> <li>Look for what&rsquo;s right</li> <li>Reward that behavior</li> <li>Repeat</li> </ol> Action steps <ol> <li>Share appreciations</li> <li>Say please and thank you</li> <li>Make small gestures</li> <li>Cultivate moments of kindness</li> <li>Rewrite the story</li> <li>Be kind</li> </ol>

Dog Biscuit Theory of Marriage

This book addresses young people of faith who may wonder how to deal with others in a secularized environment where Christian faith is a weak influence. How do they deal with a way of life that appears to be at odds with Christian faith?
 By considering aspects of living one's faith from a human and divine perspective, the author relates theoretical examples of how to practice virtues and habits in order to live with supernatural realism. That means feet on the ground and head and heart in heaven, so that the divine and human light of Jesus Christ reaches those around them.

Rebel Believers

We have just begun today the novena to the Immaculate Conception. It starts with the feast of St. Andrew, the brother of Peter. The two became the most effective apostles ever, and they remained faithful to the end, both of them dying by crucifixion. Peter in Rome, Andrew in Greece. The novena has this tone of apostolic zeal. This sense of fervour that we want to be faithful apostles, and truly evangelize. Bring souls to Christ. Today it starts with the most iconic phrase from Jesus: I will make you fishers of men (Matt 4, 19). He did not say you will do certain things. You will do certain apostolic activities. Meetings, and invitations, clubs. No, you will be apostles, in every moment.
This is a shot meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Kintore College, Toronto, November 30, 2023.
Music: Handel, Rinaldo Opera, Aria &quot;Lascia che io pianga&quot; Arranged for guitar by Bert Alink. 
Thumbnail: Raphael cartoons of the miraculous Draught of Fish, 1515 in Victorian Albert Museum.

I Will Make You Fishers of Men

How is your spiritual life influenced by what you love?Drawing upon the life of St. Augustine, whose feast day is celebrated on August 28, Msgr. Martin Schlag helps us to see how the choice between love of God and love of the world shapes our personal holiness and the very foundations of society. By ordering our loves toward God, we discover true freedom, authentic friendship, and our belonging to the City of God where our hearts find lasting joy. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/How-to-Love-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

How to Love: The Feast of St. Augustine

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-palm-sunday'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

iPray with the Gospel | Palm Sunday

The new biography of venerable Isidoro Zorzano adds a relatively unknown name to the landscape of exceptionally holy men and women of the Twentieth Century. Like many of his contemporaries, Zorzano left a lasting imprint and solid example of how to uniquely live out the call to holiness in a turbulent modern world. As a young Spanish engineer and good friend of Fr. Josemar√≠a Escriv√°, Zorzano became a founding member of Opus Dei in Spain. Despite the fatal diagnosis of Hodgkin's lymphoma at age thirty-eight, he "was content to keep working and offer everything to God," never resting despite his quick deterioration. As a witness of silent devotion to the Lord through a life of simplicity, fidelity, and attentiveness, he became a model of attainable sanctity for both his contemporaries and future generations alike.

Ordinary Life, Extraordinary Living: Isidoro Zorzano

Ninety years ago, on October 2nd, God showed Opus Dei to the young St. Josemaria Escriva. It happened in an instant, he fell to his knees dazzled by all that God had just showed him. On this anniversary, our desire is not simply to celebrate this milestone in the history of Opus Dei but also to learn from the operating system of this faithful instrument of God’s providence. To relive the path taken by St. Josemaria will help us to desire the virtue of magnanimity—greatness of spirit and largeness of heart—a genuine craving for great and noble ambitions and adventures:St. Josemaria Escriva realized early on that God had a plan for him, that He wanted something from him. How could he find the answer? Where should he seek it? He set out to search above all by listening to the Word of God.Sacred Scripture, the Word of God, speaks to us today and we need to seek out our place in it to find our path. “Magnanimity means greatness of spirit, a largeness of heart wherein many can find refuge. Magnanimity gives us the energy to break out of ourselves and be prepared to undertake generous tasks which will be of benefit to all. Small-mindedness has no home in the magnanimous heart, nor has meanness, nor egoistic calculation, nor self-interested trickery. The magnanimous person devotes all his strength, unstintingly, to what is worthwhile. As a result he is capable of giving himself. He is not content with merely giving. He gives his very self. He thus comes to understand that the greatest expression of magnanimity consists in giving oneself to God” (St. Josemaria Escriva; Friends of God, no. 80). What was the secret that would not let St. Josemaria slow down? An overwhelming sense of being a child of God and the confidence and boldness that this reality entails.Tell Our Lord: “I really have no idea of the undiscovered qualities that I have—maybe this is my chance to discover the hidden greatness in me. This is a chance for me to be ready for great undertakings and to pass on to young people a great openness and eagerness for great ideas.”A resolution from this reflection: “To protect our times of prayer ferociously.” Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Opus Dei & the Virtue of Magnanimity

Are you ready to open your heart to Jesus this Advent? Fr. Javier del Castillo begins our Advent podcast series reflecting on St. Josemaria’s simple instruction for a fruitful and peaceful Advent: “Open your own hearts to Jesus and tell him your story” (Christ is Passing By, no. 1). To understand how Christ enters into the lives of His people, Fr. Javier reflects on key gospel figures whose encounter with the Lord opened their eyes to new horizons and provided a source of countless graces to say yes and to find true peace. As we listen to this reflection, Fr. Javier helps us to open our hearts in conversation and prayer with Jesus and to allow Him to accompany us in our daily experiences in preparation for the celebration of His birth at Christmas. To accompany your time of prayer and reflection, download our Advent Devotional <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/advent-2020-come-let-us-adore/.'>‘Come, Let Us Adore’</a>.  Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Open Up Your Heart | The First Week of Advent

Are you living with the desire to become a saint? In this podcast, part of our <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/day-of-recollection-october-2020/'>Day of Recollection resources for the month of October</a>, Fr. Peter Armenio shares spiritual insights from his experience of attending the canonization Mass of St. Josemaria Escriva in 2002. Reflecting back on this historic moment, Fr. Peter looks at the impact the life of St. Josemaria continues to have upon countless people throughout the world and reminds us to live out the gospel message in the ordinary moments of everyday life. In doing so, we too can follow in St. Josemaria’s footsteps along the path to sainthood. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Meditation One: The Canonization of St. Josemaria

Today on the podcast… The Lord asks that our holiness exceed that of the Pharisees (Matthew 23:1-36). We recall that the Pharisees were a virtuous people who lived the moral law, prayed many times throughout the day along with fasting and almsgiving. But the Lord wants us also to love as He has loved—a love that reveals through our actions that we are His disciples.  Desiring union with the love of Christ requires that we prioritize the formation of our heart&apos;s mission: to be humble, charitable, and pious in our actions and not just go through the motions. There are three components to this formation: Ask the help of the Holy Spirit to assist in our formation to be effective right where we are—in our piece of the world—our family, workplace, social acquaintances, and fellow parishioners.  We must be a light to others. Be salt to those around you affecting change in their lives and a desire to live the words of Christ— “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock” (Matthew 7:24). Ask our Lady to help in your formation and you will be assured of being formed according to the heart of Christ; thus your actions will be such that it may be said of you: &quot;This person reads the life of Jesus Christ&quot;; &quot;This person lives the words of Christ&quot;. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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 Holiness that Exceeds that of the Pharisees

Today, January 18 to January 25 is the Octave of Christian Unity. It finishes with the feast of the conversion of St. Paul on January 25. This Octave was first conceived by Father Paul Watson a Franciscan friar of the Atonement, of Graymoor abbey in 1907. This leads us naturally to pray about the Church in her essence.
CCC 760: all that vast array of creation had really one basic purpose: to have a place of communion, brought about by a convocation. Ecclesia means call, vocation, convocation. The world was created for the church, for this assembly. Even for the mystical body of Christ.
Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Lyncroft Centre, Toronto.
Music: Carlos Gardel, Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink.
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos

Unity in the Church in a Time of Polarization

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Lyncroft Centre, Toronto on December 9, 2024, solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. The doctrine of the Immaculate Conception, her preservation from all sin, meant that not even a tiny shadow of darkness existed in her soul. Knowing this was the product of a process.  First the Christian people realized it, then theologians discussed it, and gradually the Church became more and more aware of what it means to say she was full of grace, the holiness of the mother of God.The realization that she was redeemed in a unique way, right from the moment of her conception. Music: Regi Stone, All Heaven Declares, YouTube music

Mary is the New Eve by her Obedience

In this episode of the Fairest Love podcast, we speak with JL Marti, CEO of the Fairest Love Family Project, about the profound connection between vocation, family, and faith. JL shares his personal journey from Spain to the U.S., his life as a numerary in Opus Dei, and how his vocation has shaped his understanding of love, presence, and purpose.The conversation explores the importance of discernment, the quiet beauty of finding God in daily life, and the vital role families play in helping children recognize and pursue their unique callings.JL reflects on the influence of his own parents in his vocational journey, the mission of Opus Dei in the modern world, and the hope he sees for the future of family life—rooted in unconditional love, faith, and devotion to Mary, Mother of Fair Love.To learn more about the Fairest Love Family Project, visit: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/">https://www.fairestlovefamilyproject.org/</a>

S5 Ep. 19 - Opus Dei: A Path to Holiness with JL Marti

Dr. Christine Bacon joins Doug to discuss her book -&nbsp;The Super Couple. PLUS: 6 faulty assumptions of a super marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Kimberly - My husband was in a substance abuse program and I didn't know about it. I found out the hard way. How do I help him from a spouse's point of view. He's not Catholic and he's adamant to divorce me but also wants to be a better father. (18:30)</li> <li>Rosie - How can I mend the relationships in my family? (29:13)</li> <li>Colleen - During my marriage I was abused but we persevered and got help and now we are better! (40:13)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Dr. Christine Bacon <a href="https://www.drchristinebacon.com/radio">https://www.drchristinebacon.com/radio</a> &nbsp; The Super Couple: A Formula for Extreme Happiness in Marriage <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Super-Couple-Formula-Happiness-Marriage/dp/163393201X">https://www.amazon.com/Super-Couple-Formula-Happiness-Marriage/dp/163393201X</a> &nbsp; 6 Faulty Assumptions <ol> <li>They got married "the right way."</li> <li>They learned "super" from their parents.</li> <li>They never endured any major struggles.</li> <li>They were never attracted to others besides their spouse.</li> <li>They couldn't possibly be married to pessimists.</li> <li>They were more alike than different.</li> </ol>

Faulty Assumptions of a Super Marriage

Doug continues his discussion on reasons why couples fall out of love. He shares the importance of putting God first, then your spouse, then your children. Doug speaks to the value of rekindling the love of friendship with your spouse, reconnecting on shared hobbies, and keeping the commitment of time with your spouse by planning regular date nights. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - What do you do next when your spouse asks something that's impossible or unreasonable? We have a few young kids and my car and house need to be cleaned when he comes home.</li> <li>Bella - My husband plans to play golf, but he doesn't plan dates. I tell him we should plan.&nbsp; What should we do?</li> <li>Laura - I've been married for 25 years. I just don't feel like communicating with my husband on my personal needs. What should I do?</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Reasons couples fall out of love (Part 2)

Doug is joined by Leila Miller, author of the book “Impossible Marriages Redeemed.” They discuss different marriage stories and what they did to save their marriages. They also offer advice on listener’s relationship struggles.    Leila's Website: <a href="https://www.leilamiller.net/">https://www.leilamiller.net/</a>   Leila's Email:  <a href="mailto:lela@leilamiller.net">leila@leilamiller.net</a>

How to Handle the Possibility of Divorce

One of the greatest and best-loved spokesmen for the Faith here sets out the Church's beautiful understanding of marriage in his trademark clear and entertaining style. Frankly and charitably, Sheen presents the causes of and solutions to common marital crises, and tells touching real-life stories of people whose lives were transformed through marriage. He emphasizes that our Blessed Lord is at the center of every successful and loving marriage. This is a perfect gift for engaged couples, or for married people as a fruitful occasion for self-examination.

Three to Get Married

What does it truly mean to love others “to the end,” as Jesus did at the Last Supper? In this meditation, Fr. Luke Mata reflects on Holy Thursday as the moment Jesus reveals the full extent of divine love—through the washing of the apostles’ feet, the institution of the Eucharist, and the commandment to love as He loves. He emphasizes that this love is not abstract but radically practical, calling for humility, self-gift, forgiveness, and service in everyday relationships. The Eucharist becomes both the source and strength for this way of living, since such self-giving love is impossible on our own. Ultimately, Fr. Luke presents Jesus’ example as a “revolution of love” that begins in small, personal acts and has the power to transform the world.

Holy Thursday: A Revolution of Love

Putting Down Roots by John Coverdale (author of Uncommon Faith) is the exciting story of the beginnings of Opus Dei in the U.S. It tells how Fr. Joseph Muzquiz came to America in 1949 to begin Opus Dei with very little money and only a rudimentary command of the language. At the time, only a handful of Americans had ever heard of Opus Dei. But by the time he passed away in 1983, Opus Dei had put down deep roots in this country. 
 In Putting Down Roots, we learn many remarkable details about Fr. Joseph's life including: 

‚Ä¢ His first meeting with St. Josemar√≠a Escriv√°, the founder of Opus Dei. 
‚Ä¢ His tireless efforts, first as a layman, then as a priest, to spread Opus Dei in Spain during the 1940s. 
‚Ä¢ His remarkable faith beginning Opus Dei with Salvador Ferigle in the U.S. with no money, few contacts, and a very rudimentary command of English. 
‚Ä¢ The many heroic virtues he lived, earning him a reputation as an unusually holy priest. 

 Today, many people in the United States and in other countries pray to Fr. Joseph, as he was called in this country, and hope that one day the Church will declare him a saint. This book explains why. 
Putting Down Roots contains eight pages of photos.

Putting Down Roots: Fr. Joseph Muzquiz and the Growth of Opus Dei

What does it mean to be truly confident and how can we help our children establish a sense of their unique worth and dignity? This week, mental health expert and a co-founder of Cana Vox, Ana Bethencourt Yrasquin shares her insights.

Ep. 13 The Difference between Self Esteem and True Confidence with Ana Bethencourt Yrausquin

Doug answers a letter about a narcissistic daughter-in-law (4:11), how to deal w/an angry wife in a 57-year marriage (21:26), should I tell previous sexual sins to a girlfriend (24:45), gratitude during Thanksgiving (31:27) and how to prevent conflict during Thanksgiving (41:43)

Narcissistic Daughter-in-Law and Thanksgiving Plans

"The kings of the earth stood up and the princes met together against the Lord and against his Christ." Psalm 2:2In this episode of Sons and Kings, Jake, Louis, and Pat discuss Part 2 of Verse 2 from Psalm 2, focusing on themes like God's kingship, spiritual struggles, and the temptations believers face. Louis compares the story of King Hezekiah in the Old Testament to modern challenges against worldly temptations, highlighting the importance of turning to God during difficult times. All three share thoughts on artistic takes of Psalm 2, showing how this call to divine kingship remains relevant today.

Verse 2, Part 2 - The Tumult of Nations and Divine Authority

A meditation preached at Shellbourne Conference Centre in Valparaiso, Indiana, during a retreat on December 27, 2024.
Gen 2, 15 The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. 16 And the Lord God commanded the man, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; 17 but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die.”

Where Are You? God Said to Adam after his Sin

The following meditation was recorded in front of a live audience. In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio underscores the relevance of St. Josemaria’s spirituality for our times, drawing a parallel between our world and the intensely pagan society of the early Christians. Fr. Peter explains that as modern apostles, Our Lord says that we must be &quot;leaven&quot; to the world, transforming it through our imitation of Christ. Our goal should be for our love to reach such a threshold that those around us, starting with our family, lead people to say that we are followers of Christ. Fr. Peter also emphasizes that if we cut corners in our interior life, we could diminish our light to the people around us. St. Paul’s words in Romans 5:5—“The love of God has been poured into your hearts by the Holy Spirit”—serve as a reminder that Christ&apos;s love is the fuel that sustains our charity and apostolic mission. Without it, Fr. Peter notes, we cannot give people an authentic experience of Christ. This union with Christ through our plan of life is essential to radiating Our Lord&apos;s presence to the world. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Living-as-Apostles-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/living-as-apostles/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Living as Apostles: The Necessity for a Plan of Life

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Lyncroft centre in Toronto on February 23, 2025.Jesus said to his disciples, ‘I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. (Lk 6, 27)They are jarring words, fighting words, discordant for our secularized society, but nevertheless, true and authentic divine words that seem to ask so much of us. They have been handed down to us over the centuries so that they be like the blueprint of our life.

The Full Stretch of our Charity

The Virtues of Holiness offers a road-map for navigating our everyday activities: work, family, leisure pursuits. It shows how we can reach the heights of Christian life in and through these activities. For many people this is unfamiliar territory, and the author has written this book just for them. 
 Fr. Lorda offers his readers a daily plan for those struggling with spirituality and describes strategies for gaining the virtues needed for following Christ closely. The next steps are familiarity with the life of Christ and developing a deep interior relationship with Him. Although its path is challenging, The Virtues of Holiness leaves no doubt that the struggle to stay close to Christ lies within the reach of every Christian. 
 The author draws on a wide range of Christian apologists from the Church Fathers to St. Thomas Aquinas, as well as the 16th century Spanish mystics, John of Avila, John of the Cross, and Teresa of Avila. The result is a book that is accessible to readers of all ages, and especially young believers.

The Virtues of Holiness

&nbsp; &nbsp; Doug explores how couples can face change, rebuild trust, and recommit to their marriage when relationships feel broken. With guest Greg Schutte, the conversation also looks at forgiveness, the Eucharist, and why some spouses resist change or struggle to remain faithful to their vows. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: &nbsp; Michelle &ndash; My husband believes I am the problem in our marriage, and I worry that I may be enabling unhealthy behavior because of his illness. What should I do? (19:49) &nbsp; Rob &ndash; My wife asked for a three-month separation and now wants a divorce. I am trying to encourage her to speak with the Church, but she seems determined to end the marriage. (28:54) &nbsp; &nbsp; Resources: Greg Schutte Music: Romans <a href="https://youtu.be/vauNei2c3IA?si=Qsl96gjSfryADued">https://youtu.be/vauNei2c3IA?si=Qsl96gjSfryADued</a> &nbsp; Eucharistic Marriage - Greg Schutte <a href="https://www.eucharisticmarriage.org/">https://www.eucharisticmarriage.org/</a> &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>

Rebuilding Trust and Recommitting to Your Marriage

In our meditation of the week:  Fr. Javier del Castillo helps us to contemplate the Gospel of the Mass for the Third Sunday of Lent— Jesus cleansing the Temple (John 2:13-25). This is a rare moment in the Gospel when Jesus gets angry because the worship that was due to his Father was being mingled with human motives and was not worthy of his Father God. As Fr. Javier explains, when it comes to the sacred, Our Lord makes no allowances for competition. The same is true for us as the temples of the Holy Spirit. &quot;Do you not know that your body is a temple of the holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own?&quot; (1 Corinthians 6:19) The virtue which allows us to love God and to worship God rightly with an undivided heart is holy purity. Purity is not simply a virtue for the single person but for everyone—married, single, priest, and religious. It is a virtue that allows us to see God behind everyone and every situation in our lives. And it allows us to be a contemplative, to carry that temple, to carry God with us wherever we go. Our heart is something great, something valuable, and we have to keep it pure for God. There&apos;s many manifestations of this virtue and they are all beautiful, but they do require sacrifice. And that is where we need to really make a commitment to living these sacrifices so that the valuable gift of holy purity can be safeguarded. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/The-Temple-and-the-Virtue-of-Holy-Purity-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/temple-and-holy-purity/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

The Temple and the Virtue of Holy Purity

Today on the podcast… Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, reflects on Jesus’s example and command at the Last Supper that we love one another and he has loved us.  And how this new commandment creates a connection between Jesus Christ and us, revealing to us and helping us to love with the heart of Christ. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Revealing the Heart of Christ

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Lyncroft Centre in Toronto, on October 27 2024. The focus is blind Bartimaeus and the heart of Jesus.
Mark 10:46-52: As Jesus left Jericho with his disciples and a large crowd, Bartimaeus (that is, the son of Timaeus), a blind beggar, was sitting at the side of the road. When he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to shout and to say, ‘Son of David, Jesus, have pity on me.’ And many of them scolded him and told him to keep quiet, but he only shouted all the louder, ‘Son of David, have pity on me.’ Jesus stopped and said, ‘Call him here.’ So they called the blind man. ‘Courage,’ they said ‘get up; he is calling you.’ So throwing off his cloak, he jumped up and went to Jesus. Then Jesus spoke, ‘What do you want me to do for you?’ ‘Rabbuni,’ the blind man said to him ‘Master, let me see again.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Go; your faith has saved you.’ And immediately his sight returned and he followed him along the road.
Music: Carlos Gardel, Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Pompeo Batoni, Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Church of the Gesù in Rome (1767)

Call him to me: the Story of Bartimaeus

Fr. Carter Griffin, Rector of St. John Paul II Seminary in Washington, DC, wrote this new Scepter title about chastity and holy purity. We share the introduction and first chapter of this timely book.

Reclaimed: Win the War of Freedom, Self-Mastery, and Holy Purity

September 6, 2025. Homily of Fr. Luke Mata, at the Memorial Mass for Matthew Schoenecker. Celebrated at St. Louise de Marillac in Covina, California.

Homily at the Memorial Mass for Matthew Schoenecker

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-ascension'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

iPray - Ascension of the Lord

In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the importance of the virtue of humility in the spiritual life. The need for a spiritual life stems from a desire to reject our sinful nature; that is, our realization that we are sinners moves us to want to grow spiritually, to follow Christ. And, without humility, the biggest obstacle to following Christ is self-importance. Each one of us has certain gifts within the spiritual life but we are not the origin of these gifts – they have been given to us by God. As we become aware of our spiritual gifts, we are drawn deeper into a life of true discipleship with Jesus Christ. As St. Josemaria Escriva wrote: “Get rid of those proud thoughts! You are but the brush in the hand of the artist, and nothing more. Tell me, what is a brush good for if it doesn’t let the artist do his work?” (The Way, no. 612). Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

Humility and the Spiritual Life

"I would like these pages to assist our prayer and lead us closer to Christ," writes Monsignor Fernando Oc√°riz in the introduction to his book. Through 120 short texts, it aims at helping the reader to meditate on the Gospel with an attentive and contemplative attitude. The author takes the perspective of a person who prays as a child of God. In such prayer, the sense of divine filiation becomes a strong impulse in daily life. By reflecting on these gospel mediations frequently, we identify ourselves ever more closely with Jesus, Son of the Father.¬† This leads to a truer relationship with God our Father, and in turn, a greater love for all others.

In the Light of the Gospel: Short Meditations

As we continue this month of grief and finding hope, we spoke with Amanda, the founder and director of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.alienatedgrandparentsanonymous.com/">Alienated Grandparents Anonymous</a>. We discuss the significant impact that grandparents have on their grandchildren and how removing them from that relationship can be detrimental to both the grandparent and grandchild. Amanda shares steps grandparents can take to recover the lost relationship with their children in hopes of forgiveness and healing. Want to learn more about this organization? Receive the newsletter and information about support sessions by emailing <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="mailto:againternationalheadquarters@gmail.com">againternationalheadquarters@gmail.com </a>Read Amanda’s book, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.amazon.com/Thought-Was-Only-One-Grandparent/dp/1663224331">I Thought I Was the Only One: Grandparent Alienation: A Global Epidemic</a>

S4 Ep. 48 - Experiencing Alienation as a Grandparent with Alienated Grandparents Anonymous

The Gospel for the Mass of the First Sunday of Lent (Mark 1:12-15) tells of Jesus&apos; forty days and temptation in the desert. In today&apos;s meditation, Fr Javier del Castillo asks us to contemplate Jesus&apos; temptation as we begin the first week of Lent &quot;to learn how to say yes to our Father God and to renounce Satan.&quot; And, we can learn to do that by understanding temptation and recognizing our personal struggles with temptations. In particular, Fr Javier draws our attention to three important characteristics of temptations: 1. Temptations are tailor-made for us, made to fit us individually. 2. Temptations never appear in their ugliness; they always appear attractive.3 . We should never dialogue with temptation; we must run away from temptation. As we learn in the meditation, &quot;we have to take time to think about and decipher those temptations, whether it&apos;s a pleasure or fear, because then pride comes in and takes over, and then we commit the greatest sins.&quot; Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>

First Sunday of Lent: Jesus is Tempted by Satan

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with the Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. iPray with the Gospel is helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/ipray-second-sunday-of-lent-2/'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</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>