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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

In Father, The Family Protector, Educator James Stenson explores how fathers exercise their powerful and particularly masculine contribution to family life. His research comes from more than twenty years of working with families from two highly successful independent secondary schools for boys that he helped establish, The Heights School in Washington D.C., and Northridge Preparatory School in Chicago. As headmaster, he made it his business to know hundreds of families intimately studying their family lives, watching their children grow into maturity, very often successfully, but sometimes not. Through countless conversations with fathers and mothers, he tried to account for the differences, looking for patterns of family life among those parents who triumphed with their children. What did these successful men and women have in common? What did they manage to do right? Most important: what could other parents learn from their experience? 
 This wisdom of fatherhood is what this book for dads is all about. It explains the main obstacles in today's society that undercut a father's teaching role, and tells men what they could do to overcome them. Then within this framework, James Stenson spells out how successful fathers deal with their children in the more crucial areas: family rules, discipline, schooling, sports, recreation, the media, and ongoing teamwork with one's wife. In short, this book for dads provides the guidance that will help any father to carry out a serious responsibility - that of protector of his family.

Father, The Family Protector

Opening Credits

Introduction

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)

Today on the podcast… We are invited to listen and contemplate:How eternal happiness begins here on earth and is brought to its fullness in Heaven. Why it is a good idea to study the lives of the saints. The meaning of the “revolutionary message” revealed to St. Josemaria Escriva: to bring Christ into the heart of the modern world. At the end of our reflection and prayer, we ask Our Lady to help us learn to live each day imitating the saints. <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 Revolutionary Message

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Ashlar Centre in Toronto, on March 22, 2026.In the year 2001 it was exciting because we were entering a new millennium. Pope John Paul II invited us to launch out into the deep, in Latin, Duc in altum (Apostolic letter, Novo millennio ineunte, 2001): He said: Duc in altum! These words ring out for us today, and they invite us to remember the past with gratitude, to live the present with enthusiasm and to look forward to the future with confidence: &quot;Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever&quot; (Heb 13:8).This is tied to Jesus&#39; call to Lazarus in the tomb: Lazarus, come out! Veni foras!Music: Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.Thumbnail: The Jonah Sarcophagus, 300. Vatican museum.

Lazarus and our Apostolate

What is the purpose of professional training and the work derived from it? From the time Ernesto Cofiño returned from Paris with a doctorate in pediatrics, he made his work available for the benefit of others in his native Guatemala, dedicating himself to patients, rich and poor, and then to medical students, caregivers and many others. At the peak of his very distinguished career he encountered Opus Dei and discovered that being a child of God was not just a figure of speech but a profound reality and that his dedication to others through work done generously and in a spirit of service was the precise way that God was calling him to holiness. From then on he worked relentlessly as a pediatrician, educator, and fund-raiser doing it all for the glory of God, "putting on Jesus Christ" until becoming himself Opus Dei. 
No Small Goals: The Life of Dr. Ernesto Cofiño by Thomas McDonough tells the story of a Guatemalan-born doctor who, after obtaining an excellent medical education in Paris, returned to his native land to serve its people through his medical practice. In spite of obstacles that include political strife, and social and economic challenges, he remained faithful to his land and people through his work as a doctor It is an extraordinary lesson on how one's ordinary work can be converted into a tool of service and improvement for all of society.  
Dr. Ernesto's cause of holiness is now underway.

No Small Goals: The Life of Dr. Ernesto Cofiño

Have you suffered a traumatic event in your life or more specifically your marriage? Today on Marriage Unhindered, Dr. Joyce Mikal-Flynn joins Doug to discuss growing through trauma. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - After suffering physical traumatic injuries how do you deal with doctors who trivialized and dismiss what happened to you? (23:53)</li> <li>Monica - How do I navigate coping together with my family who have all been affected by child abuse in the home? (35:59)</li> <li>Deedee - Are there studies on the influence of fathers on young women as far as trauma goes? (43:57)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Dr. Joyce Mikal-Flynn <a href="https://www.metahab.com/">https://www.metahab.com/</a> &nbsp; &nbsp;

Post-traumatic Growth

Can a marriage survive without trust? Can you have trust in one area of marriage and not the other? Today, Doug shares tips for building trust in your marriage. He unpacks the benefits of trust and explores the difference between emotional, intimate, financial and parental trust. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Adrianna - My adult daughter is in a relationship but it is not good. They fight a lot. It doesn't look healthy and she doesn't want to be with him. (36:48)</li> <li>Maribel - I am married to an addict. Trust is a big deal to me. I overcame it by asking God for grace to overcome it. He took away the anger. (40:37)</li> <li>Mary - My 20-year-old lives at home but I am going away for a few days and I don't know what to do about her boyfriend coming over when I am gone. When do I let go? (46:22)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: 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> &nbsp; 13 ways to build trust in a relationship <ol> <li>Be honest.</li> <li>Be reliable.</li> <li>Practice open communication.</li> <li>Accept your mistakes.</li> <li>Maintain healthy privacy.</li> <li>Don&rsquo;t be jealous.</li> <li>Don&rsquo;t share your marital secrets with others.</li> <li>Don&rsquo;t send mixed messages.</li> <li>Keep your promises.</li> <li>Show empathy.</li> <li>Respect your spouse&rsquo;s boundaries.</li> <li>Be supportive.</li> <li>Get interested.</li> </ol>

Building Trust

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached today November 11: at the 11th hour, the 11th day, the 11th month in 1918, the bugle sounded to announce the ceasing of all hostilities. Today we remember the fallen.
Now Poppy is emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem &quot;In Flanders Fields&quot; written by Canadian physician Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae. 
 
In Flanders fields the poppies blow 
Between the crosses, row on row, 
That mark our place; and in the sky 
The larks, still bravely singing, fly 
Scarce heard amid the guns below. 
We are the Dead. 
Short days ago 
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, 
Loved and were loved, and now we lie 
In Flanders fields. 
Take up our quarrel with the foe: 
To you from failing hands we throw 
The torch; be yours to hold it high. 
If ye break faith with us who die 
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow 
In Flanders fields.

Flanders Fields: Pray for the Dead

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"

As we celebrate Thanksgiving Day in the United States, Father Javier del Castillo reminds us in this meditation, as St. Josemaria Escriva also often did, that we ought to thank God always by habitually making frequent acts of thanksgiving, acts of gratitude. “We were never asked by God to come into existence,” Fr Javier explains, “everything we have— our talents, our virtues, even our defects— all have been been foreseen by God, allowed by God, given to us by God so that we can fulfill the single mission that we have received from before the foundation of the world, as St Paul would say, in giving glory to God. ‘Thank you Lord for everything because everything is good.’” And as we strive to maintain a constant spirit of gratitude in our lives we will realize that &quot;thanksgiving enlarges our hearts to receive even greater gifts from God.&quot; <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>

Thanksgiving

This episode is pulled from part one of Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Searching for and Maintaining Peace: a small treatise on peace of heart.

Interior Peace - Jacques Philippe

In this podcast, Fr. Leo Agustina invites you to imagine inviting Jesus to dinner as he passes by you at home, your dorm, your office, your kitchen, or your desk. Would you welcome him and listen to him? Would you allow him to open your horizons and give meaning to your whole life? This was the way of St. Matthew (also called Levi) as we read in the Gospels. Jesus was sending a huge message by passing by people at their jobs and at work. He is present, he is aware, and he really cares. But you must be humble enough to accept that your vocation means you inviting Jesus to meet you first, to talk to him, and to follow him. Jesus says “follow me,” if you want to. The calling of St. Matthew reminds us that our vocation is a combination between our freedom and the grace of God--our freedom and his invitation--and that&apos;s the beauty of every vocation. In every vocation, there&apos;s a story to be told and to be unfolded. And, Jesus is happy to be creating that story together with the protagonist. Our vocation is truly a treasure. But the principle and most important treasure of our life is our relationship with Jesus—-it&apos;s the treasure that we should rediscover every single day. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Dinner-with-Jesus-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/dinner-with-jesus/'>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>

Dinner with Jesus

Are you in need of marital conversion? Today on Marriage Unhindered, Doug shares steps in a religious conversion and applies them to marriage. PLUS: Doug shares advice for handling in laws who are too involved in your marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Jeff - Are we looking to convert or for conversion? My wife and I are recent converts and it has saved our marriage. (13:16)</li> <li>Judith - What if you change and the other person doesn&rsquo;t like the change and doesn&rsquo;t care? (32:48)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &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> &nbsp; Steps for a religious conversion <ol> <li>Repent - Acknowledge your sins.</li> <li>Avoid sin and follow God.</li> <li>Metathesis - Effect a change in state or condition.</li> <li>Metamorphosis - To be transformed.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Examination of conscience for married couples <ul> <li>Have I loved my spouse as Christ loves the Church&mdash;sacrificially and faithfully?</li> <li>Do I show respect, kindness, and patience, or do I speak harshly, criticize, or belittle?</li> <li>Have I been selfish in my desires, refusing to serve or sacrifice for my spouse?</li> <li>Have I been unfaithful in thought, word, or action&mdash;including pornography, flirtation, or inappropriate relationships?</li> <li>Do I forgive readily, or do I hold grudges and keep a record of wrongs?</li> <li>Do I listen with empathy, or do I dismiss my spouse&rsquo;s feelings and needs?</li> <li>Do I use my body and my spouse&rsquo;s body as a gift, or do I reduce intimacy to selfish gratification?</li> <li>Have I neglected my spouse&rsquo;s emotional, spiritual, or physical needs?</li> <li>Do I share in the responsibilities of family life (finances, chores, parenting), or do I leave an unfair burden on my spouse?</li> </ul>

Marital Conversion

In this meditation, Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, invites us to reflect upon the “science of the cross” given by Jesus in the Gospel of Mark. As the precondition for those who want to follow Christ, Fr. Peter shows how we can apply Christ’s words to ourselves and learn how to put them into practice.“He summoned the crowd with his disciples and said to them, ‘Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me’” (Mark 8:34). Self-denial is often manifested through acts of mortification and fasting, yet the self-denial that Christ is addressing here is on a macro level. We are called to deny our whole persona: our minds, our wills, our hearts, our entire beings, just as Mary did in her “fiat” at the annunciation. No matter what our vocation, Christ is inviting us to put him first in our life. Although living out this type of self-denial is the work of a lifetime, it begins by cultivating the disposition of giving the Lord our entire self each day. In examining the lives of the saints, we see models of those who cultivated this disposition and responded to the Lord’s call with a total gift of themselves. <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>

Deny Yourself

In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio shares a reflection on the three Advents we encounter in life and, as we come closer to Christmas, explains what it means to become Bethlehem–to get to know Jesus Christ, follow him, and bring him 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>

Becoming Bethlehem

Today on the St. Josemaria Institute podcast we bring you a special meditation in honor of the Solemnity of St Joseph.Who was Joseph? What was he called to do? How did he answer God’s call? How did he provide for the needs of Mary and Jesus? Fr Javier del Castillo invites us in this meditation to contemplate the holy life of Saint Joseph who was “a family man and an upright worker and citizen.” We also prayerfully consider this two-fold vocation in order to learn from Saint Joseph how we can live these two aspects of our vocations (family and work) wherever we find ourselves. Ite ad Ioseph: “Go to Joseph&quot; <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>

Saint Joseph

How do you forgive? Doug reviews what forgiveness is and how to actually put it into practice.

Forgiveness

Has your spouse ever come home in a bad mood? Today, Doug shares a letter from Alice Von Hildebrand in her book By Love Refined. In this letter, Alice gives advice to a young bride whose husband came home in a bad mood. She shares how to discern the theme of every situation and to focus on understanding why her husband is upset. Doug talks about the importance of sanctifying every moment and he recommends a stress reducing conversation which will help each spouse communicate the ups and downs of their day. Doug discusses the one thing that happy married couples do and what couples who are divorced don&rsquo;t do. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Janice - I'm a pharmacist and it's a very stressful job. I have a 5-year-old and struggle with coming home with all the stress.</li> <li>Vinnie - Am I supposed to be celibate for my whole life unless I find someone to marry?</li> </ul> Resources: By Love Refined <a href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOop_hj7tBJocu1kIRUvOGr04GiKI9hdx4dHbRfKhN2BSjsJzvBxF">https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOop_hj7tBJocu1kIRUvOGr04GiKI9hdx4dHbRfKhN2BSjsJzvBxF</a> &nbsp; Christian Courtship in an Oversexed World: A Guide for Catholics <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Courtship-Oversexed-World-Catholics/dp/1931709564">https://www.amazon.com/Christian-Courtship-Oversexed-World-Catholics/dp/1931709564</a> &nbsp; Rekindled Hearts <a href="https://relevantradio.store/products/rekindled-hearts-book">https://relevantradio.store/products/rekindled-hearts-book</a>

Communicating in difficult times

You will find yourself filled with laughter and tears as you follow the stories of these powerful women and their families who give insight into the culture and aspirations of the Luo people in Kenya. This novel tells the story of a slow Christian conversion penetrating through four generations of a family from the mid-1800s to the present. Set in East Africa, prior to European colonization, author Margaret Ogola paints a vivid picture of a family's journey through time and a rapidly changing culture. Fascinating and captivating, this story highlights the culture, the beliefs, and the oh-so-familiar human struggles and joys of generations of women and their families. The themes of loyalty, courage, family values, and hope permeate the story as each generation endures suffering with determination and a firm belief in God. They welcome change while taking on the challenges that come with it and grasping onto the continuity of their traditions and beliefs. The River and the Source by Margaret A. Ogola won both the Jomo Kenyatta Literature Prize and the Commonwealth Writers Prize Best First Book in the Africa Region. It continues to be in worldwide demand.

The River and the Source

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shares a reflection on working for God, inspired by the homily given by Saint Josemaria on February 6, 1960. Fr. Javier poses three important questions for us to consider as we approach work each day: Do we work for Christ? We see in the beginning passages of Scripture that God gave man and woman the vocation to work – to till the garden. We are each called to put our talents at the service of God. Work itself is not to be seen as the end, but rather, to be seen as the means to pray, sacrifice, and give glory to God. Do we work in Christ? Christ, the source of love, spent his hidden years working. He spent this time working out of love for his heavenly Father as well as out of love for each one of us. By his example, Christ shows that we are called to sanctify the task at hand through the grace given to us by God. If we work out of love, we will see the fruit of our labor in heaven. As we work closely with God, we are slowly transformed and begin to reflect the love of Christ to others. Do we work through Christ? As we are transformed by the love of Christ, our daily actions slowly move away from being a choice of habit to being a choice of free will. Working through Christ creates in us the awareness for whom we are working as well as the reason behind our work. <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>

Working for God

Are you having communication issues in your marriage or with your children? Monica Hinderer joins Doug discussing essential communication skills parents should teach their children. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Jen - How do I prompt my husband who is a bit ADD and absent minded? (23:23)</li> <li>Steve - If you don&rsquo;t write it down I&rsquo;ll forget it. (37:09)</li> <li>Michael - How do you address the guardian angel if they are neither male or female? (38:16)</li> <li>Pete - I&rsquo;m a Cubs fan and my wife is Sox fan. is it wrong to pretend to like her team to get rewarded? (40:21)</li> <li>Pete - How do you address communication loss in a friendship. (41:10)</li> <li>Tine Marie - I had a fever for several days and the Lord healed me through the intercession of the Blessed Mother. (46:11)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &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>

Teaching Good Communication

A meditation preached at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto, on March 7, 2026. The devil tempts Jesus in the desert. Jesus is impeccable (unable to sin) in virtue of the hypostatic union, yet truly tempted from without in His human nature, in the sense of being really “assaulted” by the devil, not in the sense of interior consent or moral peril.Traditionally, this scene in the desert is a contrast with Adam. New Adam motif: The desert scene is read against Genesis, where Adam fell in a garden amid abundance, Christ triumphs in a wilderness amid hunger and weakness.Thumbnail: The Temptation of Christ by Simon Bening, Flemish, 1550 Getty Museum, Los AngelesMusic: Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

Begone Satan!

Are you seeking to draw near to Our Lord more each day?As heard in the Gospel for the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, we encountered the endearing figure of Zacchaeus, a tax collector who had a poor reputation among his Jewish confreres, but nevertheless had a deep desire to meet Jesus. He overcame his shame and reached out to be close to Jesus who was passing by. In this podcast, Fr. Eric Nicolai reflects on the promptness of Zacchaeus– his initiative and the grace of conversion that he received on account of his own generosity. Fr. Eric challenges us to have this same initiative in our interior life and reminds us that it requires humble examination of conscience and a willingness to begin again. In doing so, we will obtain a lasting serenity and joy found only in the grace of Christ. [<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Transcript-Beginning-Again-Again.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>

Beginning Again & Again

In this podcast, Msgr. Dolan shares a reflection on the importance of silence as exemplified in the passage of the Transfiguration of Christ. This Scripture passage reminds us of a popular verse from the book of Psalms, “be still and know that I am God” (Ps 46:11). The disciples who witnessed the transfiguration embraced the silence; they did not tell anyone what they had seen. They understood that anything other than silence would have ruined everything. Instead, they held on to the fresh memories they had made. Throughout the season of Lent, we are encouraged to create an interior silence that allows us to enjoy the presence of God. Pope Francis shares that “the Lord speaks to us in a variety of ways, at work, throughout others, and at every moment. Yet, we simply cannot do without the silence of prolonged prayer, which enables us to perceive God’s language and to see the whole of our existence afresh in his own light” (Gaudete et Exsultate, no. 171). It is our role as Christians to see the whole of our existence the way that God sees it—to see our role in the history of the world and to discover the will of God. As we make these discoveries, we should have the confidence to joyfully live out this way of life. Lent is a time of purification. The more we take time to think and pray about it, the more we realize the many distractions that are stirring within us. When we embrace silence in prayer, we can get away from the thoughts of what interests us and begin to see what interests God. Silence not only helps us understand the will of God but it also helps us to appreciate those around us and helps us to be charitable. Ultimately, the Lord will judge us on how we use our gifts, and as St. Josemaria shares in The Way, “after seeing how many people waste their lives…silence seems preferable to me, and more necessary than ever” (The Way, no. 447). <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>

Transfigured By Silence

In this podcast, we reflect on the virtue of fortitude as the motivation to overcome temptation. St. Josemaria Escriva tells us that “a task which presents no difficulties lacks human appeal - and supernatural appeal too. If you find no resistance when hammering a nail into a wall, what can you expect to hang on it?” (The Forge, no. 245). In order to win the prize, you cannot dodge the fight that takes you to the end.The virtue of fortitude is essential for the spiritual life and human development. Msgr. Dolan explains the reality of deferred gratification, which is putting off what we want and taking care of what we should do. He explains further that deferred gratification goes hand in hand with gumption, which is the ability to decide what is best in any particular situation and go straight into action. The danger in the spiritual life is abandoning the struggle and simply giving up. We can either view challenges with fear and stress, or we can choose to view them with excitement. In the Gospel reading for the first Sunday of Lent, we hear of the temptation of Christ in the desert. Christ, as the perfect model of virtue, embraces the virtue of fortitude when faced with the temptations from Satan. As you go through this Lenten season, how can you strengthen the virtue of fortitude and say ‘no’ to the temptations you face in our own 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>

Fortitude

With his invectives against the way the scribes and Pharisees observed the Law, our Lord does not despise or reject the Law; he is simply telling people to get their priorities right: there is no point in attending to secondary details if one is neglecting what is really basic and important — justice, mercy and faith.
Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Camp Caribou near Barry's Bay, Ontario.
Music: Charles Gounod, Ave Maria from MuseOpen.org
Thumbnail: James Tissot (French, 1836-1902). Annas and Caiaphas , 1886-1894. Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray woven paper. Brooklyn Museum, NY.

Hypocrisy or Integrity?

Doug discusses how to be a good and virtuous man. He unpacks 6 qualities of a good man sharing the importance of man&rsquo;s role to protect their wives physically, emotionally and spiritually. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Lydia - We lead marriage enrichment retreats and share the importance of patience, kindness, and gentleness. They are marriage healers. (20:01)</li> <li>Barbara - My husband and I feel like we're learning together to deepen our relationship in God. We've been married for 22 years. (23:49)</li> <li>Peter - Our role as fathers is to be priest, prophet, and king for your family. (27:03)</li> <li>Angela - Even in bad times when we're arguing, I still feel loved and adored by my husband. (30:36)</li> </ul> Resources: Relevant Radio Dad&rsquo;s Pack <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack">https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack</a> Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> Marriage Care for Life <a href="https://marriagecareforlife.com/">https://marriagecareforlife.com/</a> The Three Marks of Manhood: How to be Priest, Prophet and King of Your Family <a href="https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-three-marks-of-manhood-how-to-be-priest-prophet-and-king-of-your-family/?srsltid=AfmBOoo_gq2oiIvqpgXdOCVNL9RfkCuO6G1zyWHFJrcoHAgoczzkp8O0">https://tanbooks.com/products/books/the-three-marks-of-manhood-how-to-be-priest-prophet-and-king-of-your-family/?srsltid=AfmBOoo_gq2oiIvqpgXdOCVNL9RfkCuO6G1zyWHFJrcoHAgoczzkp8O0</a> &nbsp; Qualities a good and virtuous man should possess <ol> <li>He is kind to everyone.</li> <li>He is genuinely optimistic about life.</li> <li>He loves you for you.</li> <li>Wives can be themselves around their husband.</li> <li>He is attractive both physically and emotionally.</li> <li>You spend money the way your wife spends money.</li> </ol> &nbsp;

Being a virtuous man

These books help readers develop the character, discipline, and vision needed to grow personally and lead effectively. Covering topics such as virtue, decision-making, professional life, and service to others, they offer practical guidance for forming strong habits and living with purpose. Rooted in enduring moral and spiritual principles, these titles encourage readers to pursue excellence while positively influencing their work, communities, and everyday lives.

Personal Growth & Leadership

“Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). In this meditation, Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, highlights Jesus’s teaching during the Sermon on Mount and invites us to reflect on “holy purity” as a means to finding true joy and freedom in our lives. Fr. Peter explains that because God is revealed as self-giving love, and holy purity is an expression of self-giving love, the more we exercise purity, the more we see God face to face.  Holy purity, therefore, liberates us to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ, seeing him in prayer, suffering, and through relationships with other people. Looking at our culture, Fr. Peter examines several falsehoods placed before men and women today concerning this virtue and shows how living out holy purity in our attitudes and relationships both reflects our dignity as children of God, and leads to a happiness that far surpasses what is found by living according to society’s false ideas of freedom as license. Fr. Peter emphasizes the need to not only pray for the grace of the virtue of holy purity, but to pray to desire the virtue, as both will be necessary in living it faithfully. Additionally, he stresses that holy purity is a difficult virtue to live in this day and age; we must avoid the tendency to become discouraged and follow the example of St. Mary Magdalene and continue to repent and begin again. <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 Joyful Affirmation

In this episode, Kirby Fike discusses the need for dads to start living virtues in order to begin raising virtuous kids.

Please support The Dad Project here: www.dadproject.net


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

Episode 3: Getting Started

Doug unpacks 3 common mistakes couples make when they are arguing: you think your spouse is the one who needs to change; you protest louder than your spouse; one person checks out and shuts down. Doug discusses ways to avoid these mistakes and what to do if you are victim to these mistakes. &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; Rome sweet Home <a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/product/rome-sweet-home-our-journey-to-catholicism/?srsltid=AfmBOoqYJxOeRI90CXmZbKXJ1siFvZYuqE502EV-Q3lRblKExFBS3pN-">https://stpaulcenter.com/product/rome-sweet-home-our-journey-to-catholicism/?srsltid=AfmBOoqYJxOeRI90CXmZbKXJ1siFvZYuqE502EV-Q3lRblKExFBS3pN-</a>

Mistakes to avoid when arguing

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation on April 28, 2024, the fifth Sunday of Easter at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto.
Acts 9:26-31: Barnabas explained how the Lord had appeared to Saul on his journey. Barnabas convinces the apostles about the newly converted Paul. Why are they convinced? Because Paul had spoken boldly in defence of the Lord. What does it mean for us to be bold, to be daring in defence of the faith?
Music: &#39;Undertow&#39; by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com
Thumbnail: Raphael di Sanzio, Study for St. Paul preaching in Athens, 1515, chalk sketch, in Uffizi Gallery, Florence, Italy Public domain.

Be Bold, be Daring

In this reflection on The Visitation of Mary to her cousin Elizabeth, we encounter the realization that Mary offers us much in the way of teaching us about self-giving. Especially in the way she puts others first, always availing herself to acts of serving others for the love of God. There is an experience of true joy in all she does. <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>

Visitation

St. Josemar&iacute;a once wrote, "Our Lord does not expect us to be unhappy in our life on earth and await a reward only in the next life. God wants us to be happy on earth too, but with a desire for the other, total happiness that only he can give." Our lives are full of highs and lows, successes and struggles, joys and sorrows. We are called to live with a happy heart alongside it all. But it is not enough to want to be happy: we must learn to be. Fr. Francisco will help you to discover happiness regardless of life's circumstances, by uniting your heart with the heart of God. In Choosing Happiness, you will be given the knowledge and the tools to embrace and live out an all-encompassing happiness &mdash;a daily fulfillment&mdash; that ensures joy now as well as in the afterlife.

Choosing Happiness: Working Within

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai, at Roseaire Conference Centre in Delray Beach,Florida, September 13, 2025.In his encyclical, Spe Salvi, Pope Benedict XVI explained that hope can be performative not merely informative. Christian hope is not just knowledge or belief about the future. There is more:  There is dynamic power that changes how people live and act in the present. Hope does something. It can make us bold and daring in approaching apostolic challenges. Music: Michel Lee, Toronto.

Be Bold, Be Daring!

Today on the podcast… We explore the characteristics of having true contrition for our sins:When we are truly sorry for our sins and receive forgiveness we have an interior peace; a serene joy. We are supple, joyful, and approachable.We not longer give excuses for our improper behavior. <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>

Contrition

Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, reflects on Jesus’s gentle and loving invitation, ‘Come to me,’ and how we are to translate what it means for each of us personally. “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light” (Matthew 11:28-30). Often Jesus’s invitation is a gentle command to spend some quiet time with him in mental prayer. Jesus desires, as Fr. Peter explains, “that you open up your heart, vent, complain, unburden yourself, and tell him about your suffering. Because then our cross becomes his cross.” And, “God only gives us the grace to bear the crosses of the present moment. Jesus says ‘my yoke is easy and burden light…,’ not yours, but mine. Because it becomes mine, you participate in it, you share it.” <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>

Learn from Me

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.   Resources:   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>   The Lamb’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>   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>   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>   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>   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>   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

What do you do with children who struggle to control their emotions? Monica Hinderer LCPC joins Doug to discuss how to deal with children who are difficult to discipline. They unpack ways to discipline whether at home, church, or daycare. They also share resources that can help.   Resources:   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Ruah Woods Institute <a href="https://www.ruahwoodsinstitute.org/">https://www.ruahwoodsinstitute.org/</a>   The Explosive Child <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Explosive-Child-Sixth-Understanding-Chronically/dp/0063092468">https://www.amazon.com/Explosive-Child-Sixth-Understanding-Chronically/dp/0063092468</a>   What's Eating Your Child? - The Hidden Connection Between Food and Childhood Ailments <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Eating-Your-Child-Connection/dp/0761161198">https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Eating-Your-Child-Connection/dp/0761161198</a>

Discipline when it’s difficult

Doug takes a deep dive into practicing forgiveness. He outlines the process for forgiveness sharing that forgiveness is not optional but a command from God in the Our Father. &nbsp; Listener question <ul> <li>Al - I disagree with you. If someone breaks into my house, I forgive you. If it comes to murder, I think its delusional to think you can forgive a murder. (20:14)</li> <li>Sebastian - I am struggling to forgive someone. I have been renting from close family members and they have decided not to have kids but judge us for having 5 children. (24:38)</li> <li>Judy - My daughter was murdered by her boyfriend. I forgave him right away. I am not going to let his actions send me to hell because I couldn&rsquo;t forgive him. (40:13)</li> <li>John - How do you forgive someone who hasn&rsquo;t asked for it or who doesn&rsquo;t think they need to be forgiven. (44:19)</li> <li>Mike - Comment for Sebastian: Something you could do is to think about the only way they could get to heaven was by your actions would you do it? (47:19)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &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> &nbsp; The process of forgiveness <ol> <li>Identify who you need to forgive.</li> <li>Examine your anger.</li> <li>Make the decision to forgive, weighing the pros and cons.</li> <li>Pray deeply about forgiveness.</li> </ol>

Practicing Forgiveness

Doug discusses the 4 different types of dads; PLUS: A tribute to all the dads in the world. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Pete - As a father, the best moment of my life was when my first child was placed in my hands and nestled up to me. (12:15)</li> <li>Mary Frances - My dad died 5 years ago. When I was little, he was my rock, especially when my mom was sick.&nbsp; He'd come home late and do evening prayers with us.&nbsp; However, my parents divorced.&nbsp; I wish my siblings had known that same devotion that I saw from my dad. (13:16)</li> <li>Rae - We had a power mower that my husband would fix, and he named the mower Robocrop. (32:29)</li> <li>James - I'm a relatively new dad and the youngest of 6 in my family. I grew up hearing from my siblings the difficulties of parenthood, but they never warned me about how nice it is to be a father. (34:01)</li> <li>Gary - My father had open heart surgery in 1967, and he did his best to help out. He had three open heart surgeries and died in 1975. (36:01)</li> </ul> The 4 types of dads <ol> <li>The stoic provider</li> <li>The goofy provider</li> <li>The faithful leader</li> <li>The fix-it hero</li> </ol>

Remembering dads

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shares a meditation inspired by the phrase, “an hour of study, for a modern apostle, is an hour of prayer” (St. Josemaria Escriva; 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 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 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 & Prayer

Doug shares why New Year&rsquo;s resolutions generally don&rsquo;t make it into February. He also discusses Pope Leo&rsquo;s comments to the Apostolic Tribunal of the Roman Rota regarding declarations of nullity. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Janet - My husband left me after a 40-year marriage and he wanted out. He tore the family up after we had 9 kids. I think there are far too many annulments granted and they are too loose. (29:31)</li> <li>Aaron - I want to come back to the Church but I have had a divorce. Do I need an annulment. (38:45)</li> <li>Michael - Is there a website for standers? I need some resources. (42:43)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Pope Leo says the Catholic Church cannot &lsquo;relativize&rsquo; its teaching on marriage <a href="https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2026/01/pope-leo-says-the-catholic-church-cannot-relativize-its-teaching-on-marriage">https://cruxnow.com/vatican/2026/01/pope-leo-says-the-catholic-church-cannot-relativize-its-teaching-on-marriage</a> &nbsp; Impossible Marriages Redeemed <a href="https://www.leilamiller.net/impossiblemarriagesredeemedpdf">https://www.leilamiller.net/impossiblemarriagesredeemedpdf</a>

Why Resolutions Fail

Today in the podcast... Fr Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, reflects on the New Commandment from Jesus Christ which he issued to the Apostles before the Last Supper.This commandment is particularly difficult to follow since we are asked to love one another as Jesus loves us, which is a very tall order. How can we match Jesus’ love for us! However, Fr. Peter Armenio makes a point to note that when God issues a commandment, it is because we can live it. Do not write yourself off! “No matter how much you may love, you will never love enough. The human heart is endowed with an enormous coefficient of expansion. When it loves, it opens out in a crescendo of affection that overcomes all barriers. If you love Our Lord, there will not be a single creature that does not find a place in your heart” (St Josemaria Escriva, The Way of the Cross; Eight Station, Number 5). <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 New Commandment

Guest host Monica Hinderer is joined by her guest Fr. Joe Hinderer to continue their discussion on the importance of sibling relationships in childhood and beyond. They discuss conflict and how to repair relationships by respecting boundaries and leaving the door open to reconciliation. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Dee - I have a sibling who took money from my mother and I had to fix the issue. How do I deal with hurt after forgiving? (18:59)</li> <li>Sheila - How do you deal with brother and sister in-laws? They come with their own problems along with their spouse. (32:23)</li> <li>Diane - I have an older sister and a younger brother and I&rsquo;m the only one who talks to both of them. The other two don&rsquo;t talk to each other. (42:39)</li> </ul>

Resolving Sibling Conflicts

St. Josemar&iacute;a preached emphatically that God calls us all to the fullness of Christian life that is holiness while simultaneously and passionately loving the world in which we live. He liked to say that, with Opus Dei, God had "opened up the divine paths of the earth." In other words, God invites men and women of all walks of life to seek holiness as members of Opus Dei. Some are young and others old, some married and others single. Among them are brick layers and college professors, entrepreneurs and civil servants. They share a common belief that God wants them to seek holiness by living the spirit of Opus Dei in the midst of the world, and by trying to bring their colleagues, friends and relatives closer to God. In everything else in their lives, they vary greatly. In this book, you will meet a handful of these men and women, ranging from an American plumber to a Swiss philanthropist and from a Spanish teenager with cancer to a Guatemalan pediatrician who first learned about Opus Dei when he was already fifty-four years old. In these stories, may we all be encouraged and inspired to live a life of deep faith, committed to our call to holiness through the means God has given us.

Encounters: Finding God in All Walks of Life

In a society focused on external success and recognition, do we take time to look within and reflect: What do I love? Where am I going? How will I change the world?In this podcast, Fr. Leo Agustina shares a reflection on discovering the beauty of creation within our ordinary circumstances – our work, our interactions, our home – and how, by welcoming God into our midst, we can participate in his work of creation and transform the world around us.Fr. Leo explains: “Whatever is in [our] hands can be transformed, molded, into a masterpiece for [God]. It is up to [us] to discover the divine pearl in ordinary situations.” By contemplating our identity as a child of God, we come to a deeper understanding that our life is not defined by the label society may give us nor is it defined by our individual skill set – it’s about the love and interest we put into our vocation, for it is there that a miracle can occur. [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Called-to-Create-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>

Called to Create

The Forge is the third collection of St. Josemar&iacute;a's refreshingly brief but profoundly weighty reflections and meditations on how to live the Christian life to its absolute fullest. Like The Way and Furrow, it gives you practical and pointed material for meditation that will help you take your spiritual responsibilities more seriously and move ever closer to the all-consuming forge of God's love. St. Josemar&iacute;a wrote these 1,055 aphorisms, observations, and exhortations in order to enkindle within you a desire for holiness and apostolate.

The Forge (Mini Edition)

Curated shows from Scepter authors, friends, and fans!

Podcasts

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>

Sanctifying Ordinary Work

In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Lent. He recounts the familiar story of how Moses encountered God through the burning bush. We see God reveal himself as a liberator, seeking to free the Israelite people. God reveals himself to Moses by stating his name, ‘I AM’, which is the first time God reveals this in Scripture. God desires a personal relationship with us, and like all relationships, this relationship begins with an introduction. This interaction points us toward Christ, as God will become man through whom he will have a personal relationship with his people. Through Moses, God seeks to defeat the Egyptians and save the Israelite people, prefiguring what Christ will do on the cross — defeat Satan and free God’s people from sin. Fr. Armenio also recounts the parable of the fig tree. We see Christ personified as the gardener and God the Father personified as the owner. The gardener is advocating to save the fig tree, explaining to the owner that he can cut it down eventually, but it has not yet had its time. Applying this parable to our own life, we see a sense of urgency in the Gospel. Our time here on earth is finite — at some point, it will end. This Lenten season allows us the opportunity to look inward and to begin again: to take advantage of reconciliation, to seek after Christ in prayer, and to reach out in charity toward 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>

Begin Again

Alexandre Havard

Audiobooks

Do you find that your children are comparing themselves to others at school and on social media? Monica Hinderer joins Doug discussing how to keep your children from falling into the trap of comparisons. They share how comparison is the thief of joy, it can result in a decrease in self-esteem, increase in anxiety and stress, resentment and strained relationships. They discuss the importance of acceptance, affirmation, celebrating your child&rsquo;s efforts, and limiting social media i helping to avoid comparisons. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Sally - When correcting my son about a bad grade, he gets upset and tells me I don&rsquo;t appreciate his efforts.</li> <li>Tony - You should use virtues to discern correctly, whether comparing or correcting in a positive way.</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Johnson O'Connor Research Foundation <a href="https://www.jocrf.org/">https://www.jocrf.org/</a>

Avoiding Comparisons

Opus Dei

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Start Here

In a series of essays linked by his examination into key areas of spiritual growth, Fr. Jacques Philippe develops themes relating to prayer, freedom, the Holy Eucharist, and man's constant struggle for contentment amid the stresses of everyday life. Through spiritual insights of amazing women of the Church—Etty Hillesum, Thérèse of Lisieux, and Teresa of Avila—Fr. Jacque's essays examine topics such as: 

• Why look for interior peace? 
• Knowing God through Mary 
• Touching God through prayer 
• The theological virtues and the Eucharist

Fire & Light

Doug unpacks 10 ways you know you have found the one. Doug also shares common misconceptions and practical steps to understand if the person you are dating is the right person to spend the rest of your life with. PLUS: The Friday rant! &nbsp; Resources: &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> &nbsp; Reasons you know you have found the one <ol> <li>You enjoy spending time together.</li> <li>You have open and honest communication with vulnerability.</li> <li>Your core virtues and values align.</li> <li>Mutual trust and respect are firm foundations in the relationship.</li> <li>You can navigate conflicts constructively.</li> <li>You support each other&rsquo;s personal growth.</li> <li>They bring out the best version of you.</li> <li>Your friends and family notice your happiness.</li> <li>Moments apart strengthen your relationship.</li> <li>Your relationship is balanced, healthy and secure.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Common misconceptions <ol> <li>It must be love at first sight.</li> <li>Having doubts doesn&rsquo;t mean they are not the one.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Practical steps to understand if this is the one <ol> <li>Reflect on your relationship dynamic.</li> <li>Seek feedback and insight.</li> <li>Consider professional relationship counseling.</li> <li>Recognize healthy relationship patterns and red flags.</li> <li>Know how and when to trust your instincts.</li> </ol>

Is this the one?

Study & Prayer (Rebroadcast)

In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses a dad's role in making a family relocation successful.


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

Episode 36: Relocating

In this podcast, part of our <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/day-of-recollection-september-2021/'>Day of Recollection resources for the month of September</a>, Fr. Peter Armenio shares a meditation on the sanctification of human love as witnessed through the sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. This gift of sacrificial love encourages us to look inward and reflect upon the opportunity to be a witness to the love of Christ is our daily life. Through the grace made present to us in the sacraments, we are strengthened to lay down our life for one another and inspired to love others out of love for Christ. <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>

Sanctifying Human Love

Meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College, Toronto,on January 7, 2026.Mark 6, 45-52: &quot;When it was evening, the boat was far out on the sea and he was alone on shore. Then he saw that they were tossed about while rowing, for the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them walking on the sea. He meant to pass by them. But when they saw him walking on the sea, they thought it was a ghost and cried out. They had all seen him and were terrified. But at once he spoke with them, “Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!”We cannot let Jesus become for us just a phantom. Something seemingly spiritual, but that we don’t really connect with. Don’t really relate to. This is what happens when our prayer is devoid of a real relational, dialogue aspect.Thumbnail: Rembrandt’s Drawing “Christ Walking on the Water” 1638, from the British Museum.Music: Angelic Choir Library with license, Vienna Phiharmonic Orchestra.

When Jesus Seems like a Ghost

Doug continues to unpack 13 things marriage therapists wish couples knew before they got married. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Don - My wife has told me that I've become jaded because of the gross work I do as a paramedic. I feel like I can't share that stuff with my wife because she shouldn&rsquo;t be subject to it. She feels alienated. (18:04)</li> <li>Richard - My wife left me for our marriage therapist. How do I find a good therapist in the future? (45:44)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &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; Hold Me Tight <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Me-Tight-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/031611300X">https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Me-Tight-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/031611300X</a> &nbsp; Rebuilding Trust <a href="https://relevantradio.com/2026/01/rebuilding-trust/">https://relevantradio.com/2026/01/rebuilding-trust/</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; Things therapists wish you knew <ol> <li>Marriage isn&rsquo;t a fix for a broken relationship</li> <li>Love isn&rsquo;t all you need</li> <li>You&rsquo;re marrying their family too</li> <li>Conflict is inevitable in every relationship</li> <li>Financial compatibility is critical</li> <li>Intimacy fades over time</li> <li>Your partner can&rsquo;t fulfill all your needs</li> <li>Baggage doesn&rsquo;t unpack itself</li> <li>You&rsquo;re going to change and so will your partner</li> <li>Shared goals are essential</li> <li>Communication styles matter</li> <li>Routine can be a double-edged sword</li> <li>Marriage is not always 50/50</li> </ol>

What couples should know before marriage

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this recollection at Hawthorn School in Toronto on October 23 2024.
We are preparing the centennial of Opus Dei, founded on October 2, 1928.
It was a shower of grace, that Saint Josemaria received on that day. We must ensure that we maintain the beauty of this charism, to ensure that it never go stale, or lose its vibrancy.
Music: Choir of the Roman College of Holy Mary.
Thumbnail: Cover of The Way published by Doubleday.

Be Useful. Blaise a trail.

During this season of lent we are called by the Church to repent of our sins and turn back to the gospels. The Gospel of Luke makes it clear that all are being addressed when Jesus gives instructions on how to be his disciples, “Then Jesus said to all of them, “If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). Therefore, to be Jesus’ disciples, to put him first, we must practice temperance from our own desires, passions, and all that does not bring us closer to Jesus. As we reach detachment from those actions that pull us away from Jesus, we will begin to see the greater joy promised in the Beatific Vision. <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 Put Christ First

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai on March 12 at Kintore College, Toronto.Today’s Gospel from Luke 11:14-23, tells us that Jesus was casting out a demon that was dumb; when the demon had gone out, the dumb man spoke and the people marvelled.Those who opposed him said that he had done this through the power of Belzebul, through the devil. But Jesus easily responds that this would be the devil working against himself, divided against his own interests. Jesus heals because it is a sign of his power; he is able to heal in a way that no human power could. But he heals out of compassion, like when he healed the man born blind. The sacraments are channels of his mercy, of his healing: like annointing, like confession, like the nourishing power of the eucharist.Music: Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.Thumbnail: Stainedglass, Meung sur Loire 19th century.

How Jesus Heals Us

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shares a meditation inspired by the phrase, “an hour of study, for a modern apostle, is an hour of prayer” (St. Josemaria Escriva; 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 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/2021/08/Study-Prayer-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>

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Ernescliff College, March 19, 2026.There is a passage from Colossians that appeared in yesterday’s vespers to Saint Joseph. It applies to him, and to us. Colossians 3:23-24: &quot;Whatever your work is, put your heart into it as if it were for the Lord and not for men, knowing that the Lord will repay you by making you his heirs. It is Christ the Lord that you are serving.&quot;The response says: &quot;The virtuous man will bloom like the lily.&quot;As we woke up this morning, on our knees, we renewed our dedication, our yes. We want to bloom like the lily today. We call it renewing, but we might also call it refreshing, face our call with a fresh face, a luminous gaze, full of awareness of God’s presence. 1 Samuel 16: We have the stirring account of the call of David, his vocation, and his anointing by Samuel. David was the youngest; he was gone, he was not even in the list. He was not even on the list of nominees. &quot;Jesse had him sent for, a boy of fresh complexion, with fine eyes and pleasant bearing.&quot;Music: Vienna Philharmonic OrchestraThumbnail: Bartolome Murillo, Saint Joseph with the child, 1670. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Florida.

Saint Joseph Keeps our Vocation Fresh

Doug unpacks 10 ways you know you have found the one. Doug also shares common misconceptions and practical steps to help you understand if the person you are dating is the right one to spend the rest of your life with. PLUS: The Friday rant! &nbsp; Resources: &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> &nbsp; Reasons you know you have found the one <ol> <li>You enjoy spending time together.</li> <li>You have open and honest communication with vulnerability.</li> <li>Your core virtues and values align.</li> <li>Mutual trust and respect are firm foundations in the relationship.</li> <li>You can navigate conflicts constructively.</li> <li>You support each other&rsquo;s personal growth.</li> <li>They bring out the best version of you.</li> <li>Your friends and family notice your happiness.</li> <li>Moments apart strengthen your relationship.</li> <li>Your relationship is balanced, healthy, and secure.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Common misconceptions <ol> <li>It must be love at first sight.</li> <li>Having doubts doesn&rsquo;t mean they are not the one.</li> </ol> &nbsp; Practical steps to understand if this is the one <ol> <li>Reflect on your relationship dynamic.</li> <li>Seek feedback and insight.</li> <li>Consider professional relationship counseling.</li> <li>Recognize healthy relationship patterns and red flags.</li> <li>Know how and when to trust your instincts.</li> </ol>

What if heaven isn't just our destination, and happiness isn't something we wait for, but realities we can begin to live now? This is the question Fr. Edward Maristany asks in his new book Heave Can't Wait.

Heaven Can't Wait

How can we prepare our hearts for true unity this Advent season? Fr. Leo Austin explores Isaiah’s prophecy of peace —where the wolf dwells with the lamb, as a symbol of the harmony God desires within each soul. Through John the Baptist’s call to repentance, Fr. Leo invites listeners to clear spiritual deserts and welcome Christ’s transforming presence. True preparation for Christmas means becoming instruments of unity — healing divisions within ourselves and with others. Drawing on examples from Scripture, Pope Francis, and even a lighthearted cartoon, we are reminded that holiness often begins in small acts of love, forgiveness, and beauty that reflect the peace of God’s kingdom.

A wolf, a lamb, and Advent

Doug shares reasons why people fall back in love when they get into their 50's. From maturity and self-awareness to an increase in appreciation and self-confidence Doug encourages listeners to rediscover the spark in marriage through prayer, forgiveness and acts of service. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Donna - My husband and I were married for 37 years. We fell in love again while in our 50&rsquo;s. He developed a disease in 2008 and died in October 2024. (18:15)</li> <li>Josie - Today my husband and I are celebrating our 47th anniversary Prayer and forgiveness are so important. When times get tough, continue on and remember the good aspects of your spouse. (24:15)</li> <li>David - Is the Retrouvaille weekend retreat worth it? (35:28)</li> <li>Jerry - My wife and I were married for 46 yrs. I lost my wife two weeks ago and I keep looking at all the pictures that remind me of how much I am still in love with her. (38:02)</li> <li>Emily - My husband was having health issues and we found out he had a tumor. He had it removed and now we're rekindling our marriage. (42:21)</li> <li>Kathy - My parents were married for 72 yrs. My dad wanted a divorce after 60 plus years but he couldn&rsquo;t find a divorce lawyer who would handle the divorce. My parents went to therapy and worked everything out. (45:02)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: 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>

Falling In Love Again

Doug shares possible reasons why a husband has no interest in intimacy, how a wife can overcome procrastination, and what to do if your husband is a party animal. Doug unpacks the value of suffering and shares how it can unite us with the love of Christ. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Frank &ndash; I&rsquo;m not married but I enjoy the program. How do I know God&rsquo;s plan in my life?</li> <li>John &ndash; I am not Catholic. I want to save my marriage. She is Catholic but does not want to work on the marriage anymore. I can&rsquo;t go into my own home. I have not done anything to warrant this treatment.</li> <li>Mabel &ndash; I think I found evidence of cheating. How do I bring it up with my husband?</li> </ul>

Overcoming procrastination and saving marriages

As we celebrate Easter Sunday and rejoice in the Resurrection, Msgr. Fred Dolan reflects on the insurmountable joy we receive in awareness of the good news that Christ is alive. This message leads us to cultivate an interior conversion in which we can discover the presence of Christ in everyday life. Amidst the current challenge of social distancing, Msgr. Dolan encourages us to remain steadfast in prayer and to use this time as an opportunity to discover the plans God has for us so that we may continue to carry out his mission here on earth. <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>

Christ is Alive

Catholic therapist Greg Schutte joins Doug to discuss the link between the sacraments of matrimony, and the Eucharist &ndash; the source and summit of our Faith. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Eucharistic Marriage: <a href="https://www.eucharisticmarriage.org/">https://www.eucharisticmarriage.org/</a>

Building a Eucharistic Marriage Ready

Fr. Paul Donlan's meditation centers on the theme of work as a path to holiness, rooted in scripture, the life of Christ, the Holy Family, and the teachings of St. Josemaria Escriva. It begins by praising God’s works in Psalm 111 and explores how Jesus dignified human labor through His hidden years as a carpenter and later by sanctifying ordinary realities through His presence. Our daily work, whether manual or professional, is not merely a burden but can be redemptive when united with God’s love, becoming the “raw material of holiness.” Drawing examples from the Holy Family, practical stories (like that of a dentist guided through prayer), and references to Christian virtues (prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance), Fr. Paul underscores that work is service to God and others, challenging everyone to see their labor as a witness to faith, a stimulus for prayer, and a way of sanctifying themselves and those around them. Ultimately, everything points to the Cross and Resurrection as the greatest “works” that give all human activity its redemptive meaning, inviting believers to imitate Christ by sanctifying their own daily efforts with love and faith.

Work As A Path To Holiness

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation to a group of priests in Toronto, on January 16, 2024.
Like brother Lawrence&#39;s experience in the 17th century, he saw a tree in the winter, and it was just branches, without leaves or flowers. But upon looking at it, he received the grace to realize that within just a few months that tree would be totally in bloom. This gave him a deep view of the providence of God which would never be faced from his soul.
Formation is “self-cultivation”.  This is like irrigating and cultivating a piece of arable land so that it will produce good crops.

Formation: Being Arable Land

Jim and Maureen Otremba join Doug to discuss Worldwide Marriage Day and contemporary difficulties in marriage. They unpack Colossians 3:12-17 and speak to God&rsquo;s love for His people and to the heartfelt compassion we should have for our spouse. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Nick - I've been married for 20 years. My wife feels that the way we follow each other on the phone location is a controlling thing. What do you think about tracking? I feel it's more for safety, but she has turned off location services.</li> <li>Matthew - My wife and I are newlyweds and are trying to bring life into this world, but struggling. How can I show compassion with her when she&rsquo;s struggling?</li> <li>Irene - My husband wanted to track me so I asked him if I could track him, and he said no. He's tracking me, but I can't track him. What's your advice?</li> <li>Joe - I've been married for 35 years and my wife has a tendency to badmouth people. I don't really want to know the gossip. What should I do?</li> </ul> Resources: Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp;&nbsp; Banquet of Love program <a href="https://banquetoflove.org/">https://banquetoflove.org/</a>

Heartfelt compassion

Are you frustrated with the dating scene? Today on Marriage Unhindered, Taylor O&rsquo;Brien joins Doug to discuss virtual speed dating. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Bill - I want to get the app and how do I do that? I struggle with loneliness. (26:39)</li> <li>Judy - What are the oldest people you can have on? (29:11)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Candid Dating <a href="https://www.candiddating.net/">https://www.candiddating.net/</a>

Virtual Speed Dating

Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, helps us to reflect upon the means of becoming like Christ using the story of the Rich Young Man (Mark 10: 17-22) as the model. The young man, desiring eternal life, asks Jesus what he must do. After exhorting the young man to follow the commandments, Jesus invites him to “give it all” and become his disciple. It is this invitation that Christ repeats to us as well; how is Jesus calling us to follow him more closely? One danger in the spiritual life can be to regard our life of prayer and formation as a time of personal training or self-improvement. Instead, Fr. Peter reminds us that the goal of prayer and formation is to encounter Jesus and grow more deeply in our love of him and others. By responding to prayer in this way, we will “become Christ” and our lives will be a witness to others, giving them an experience of the heart of Christ. “You lack drive. That&apos;s why you sway so few. You don&apos;t seem very convinced of what you gain by giving up those things of the earth for Christ. Just compare: a hundredfold and life everlasting! Would you call that a poor bargain?” (St. Josemaria Escriva; The Way, no. 791). <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>

Becoming Christ

Doug tackles the details of a marriage pulled from the brink of divorce. What happened and what did they do to fix it? Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Matthew - I called in April, my wife and I were having fertility issues, and it was affecting our marriage. After a devotion to Mary, we have finally conceived (16:42)&nbsp;</li> <li>Gabriela - My husband and I have been fighting as my husband wants to look for a new job, but I don't think he should, especially with finances. (28:32)</li> <li>Jerry &ndash; Is it okay to marry with Dementia? (37:27)</li> </ul> &nbsp; <hr> &nbsp; Resources: &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>

3rd Time’s a Charm

Published in 1939, The Way by St. Josemaria Escriva has become a spiritual classic that has been translated to over 40 languages and sold millions of copies worldwide. In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo introduces listeners to The Way: what inspired its content and how it continues to provide spiritual wisdom and counsel to readers today. Unlike most spiritual works, St. Josemaria compiled the book to be used as an aid in prayer and it is not intended to be read straight through from cover to cover. When using this book with its original intent in mind, readers can find it to be a useful resource in starting a dialogue with the Lord, making the Gospel relevant to our lives, and leading others to the Truth. As you listen to this podcast, you will learn the context in which The Way was written, gain insight into the spirituality of St. Josemaria, reflect on key points written in The Way, and make firm resolutions in responding to the work of the Holy Spirit. <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": An Introduction

The Catechism of the Catholic Church 1809: Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates the attraction of pleasures and provides balance in the use of created goods. It ensures the will's mastery over instincts and keeps desires within the limits of what is honorable. Fr. Eric Nicolai speaks about how we can live this virtue.
Music: Handel, Opera Rinaldo, Aria "Lascia ch'io pianga", arranged for guitar by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Cardinal virtues painting in Holy Rosary Parish, Toronto.

How do I live Temperance?

The Catholic Church in the United States is celebrating National Vocation Awareness Week from November 3-9, 2019. The celebration is dedicated to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and consecrated life through prayer and education, and to renewing our prayers and support for those who are considering one of these particular vocations. In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio shares a reflection on the call to live out our baptismal vocation to be a saint. The path to sainthood begins with our response to the grace we receive through Baptism and is nurtured by our participation in the Eucharistic liturgy, prayer, and Marian devotion. Our openness to the grace of God and the work of the Holy Spirit helps us to realize our mission as a disciple to live the Gospel, to bring the Gospel to others, and to attract others to Christ. <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>

Called to Sainthood

As we prepare for the upcoming season of Lent, in this podcast we turn our attention to the life of Saint Paul. Paul, who once led the persecution of the early Christian church, had a profound conversion after encountering the love of Christ and in turn, began to lead the spread of the Christian faith. Paul shows us that we evangelize by giving others a similar experience to what we had when we first encountered Christ. Paul preaches ‘Christ crucified’, that we must ‘put on Jesus Christ’. During his visit to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico, Saint Josemaria Escriva shares that we ‘need more heart’. Josemaria explains that we have become a society in which we idolize work and the creature comforts of this world, when in reality, we must seek to put people first over work. He encourages us to invest in a small community in which we can share in the love of Christ. Josemaria explains that “sometimes you find serious shortcomings in Christians’ lives, but the important thing is not ourselves and our shortcomings. The only thing that matters is Jesus. It is Christ we must talk about, not ourselves” (Christ Is Passing By, no. 163). During his public ministry, Christ shares with us the analogy that “[we] are the light of the world” (Mt 5:14). As Christians, we are always ‘on’. In a popular phrase commonly attributed to Saint Francis of Assisi, he emphasizes Christ’s point in that we must “preach the Gospel at all times, and when necessary, use words”. In every analogy Christ uses in the Gospels, he never uses speech as an example: “you are the light of the world” (Mt 5:14); “you are the salt of the earth” (Mt 5:13); “I am the vine, you are the branches” (Jn 15:5) - these are just some of the examples. Christ shows us that presence takes precedence over preaching. In his letter to the Philippians, Paul tells them, “rejoice in the Lord always; your kindness should be known to all (Phil 4:4-5). We see that joy is an expression of charity. The more we experience the love of Christ, the more contagious our joy becomes. If we are to ‘put on Christ’, we should receive the Eucharist frequently, spend time in adoration and mental prayer, and pray the rosary. We must let people see our joy and kindness which will lead them to the love of Christ. <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>

We Need More Heart

A meditation at the Manoir de Beaujeu, preached to a group of priests on January 30, 2023, by Fr. Eric Nicolai
So many Catholics have been baptized, but not transformed. We lament this as due to secularization of society, lack of formation. Bad example, etc. We too must be conquered. What is our soft underbelly? That most vulnerable part of our perseverance. It is the lack of total surrender to Christ in our vocation. The lack of real rectitude of intention in everything.
Music: Bert Alink, Tears Keep Flowing (2015)
Thumbnail: easyimages.net
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos

Our Soft White Underbelly

On June 26th, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Josemaria Escriva. In this reflection, Fr. Peter Armenio explains the reason why the Holy Spirit moved the Church to canonize St. Josemaria so quickly. The reason he suggests is because “the Church wants us to encounter Jesus amid work” following Jesus’s own example. “Jesus’ thirty-three years!...: thirty were spent in silence and obscurity; in submission and work…” (St. Josemaria Escriva; Furrow, no. 485). “God is self-giving love…and he manifests it in work and in family relations and friendships.” So we should ask ourselves: “how do I elevate my love for Christ in my work?” Fr. Peter explains that the key to encountering Christ in our work is mental prayer— spending exclusive time with our Lord each day in conversation with Him. In this way, our ultimate aim becomes to give glory to God and to serve the needs of 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>

St. Josemaria's Message on Work

When we think of famous persons in history we usually remember their great deeds in the areas of science, politics, art, etc. But for some, their greatest achievement in life was not played out before the public, but rather took place within the private sphere of their marriage. The world may remember them for their extraordinary gifts and accomplishments, but they, at the end of their lives, were most mindful of their greatest love: their spouse. 
This book, 16 Marriages That Made History, honors the hidden love adventures of several famous persons in history. It offers concrete examples of historical marriages that transformed these well-known individuals in deep and personal ways. These are not fairy tales of marriages "made in heaven;" they are stories of real people with real struggles, who, through their marriage, were challenged, strengthened, and encouraged to grow in their capacity for love.
In this book, you will learn:

•How marriages can grow stronger through time
•How marriage can provide tremendous strength for facing life's difficulties
•How people with very different personalities can be completely united in marriage
•How one woman's selfless love saved her marriage
•How a queen learned to put her husband and her marriage ahead of power 
•How one couple's united search for truth led them to embrace the Catholic Faith

This book will help to restore your confidence in the power of marriage. It is recommended for those just starting out on their marriage journey as well as for those already well advanced along the path.

16 Marriages That Made History

Monica Hinderer joins Doug to finish their discussion on how parents can teach good communication skills to give children confidence and self-reliance. &nbsp; Episode guide <ul> <li>Expanding our children&rsquo;s vocabulary (4:30)</li> <li>Teenage emotions after a divorce (14:52)</li> <li>Practicing gratitude and kind words (21:08)</li> <li>Handling disagreements with respect (30:37)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Adrianna - My older children are really into video games and they won&rsquo;t go to daily Mass with me. What should I do? (40:20)</li> </ul>

Teaching Good Communication (Part 4)

For almost a century, Opus Dei has transmitted to the world a message of encounter with God in ordinary life. A first of its kind, this book traces the history of the institution from its foundation in 1928 to 2016. It is based on extensive research in previously unexplored documents in Opus Dei's archives and numerous interviews. Volume Two covers the five decades that begin with the opening of the Second Vatican Council in 1962. During that period, Opus Dei grew from 5,000 to more than 90,000 members and established centers throughout the world. Pope St. John Paul II made it a personal prelature and canonized its Founder, St. Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute;

Opus Dei: A History (1928-2016), Volume Two

As the beautiful daughter of a Roman senator, Junia enjoyed the best that life had to offer in second century Rome. She was grateful and anxious to please her family, a dutiful and obedient young woman of privilege. That is, until a chance friendship and its abrupt end sparks an interest in a new religion that will lead to a destiny she never imagined. Junia is a fictional exploration of life at the very beginning of Christianity from a very personal point of view. It shows how the attractions of the new religion were accompanied by social struggle, family division, and the risk of a disgraceful death to those courageous enough to embrace it. The author is a priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei in St. Louis.

Junia

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

Doug shares phrases you can say to your spouse that will breathe new life into your marriage. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Dan - There is a tiny fraction of a second to make a decision, and say 'I feel this' and 'I feel that', and step back and evaluate before screwing up. (19:35)</li> <li>Dave - I'm having marital issues and we're about to separate. We have been together 14 years and my adult stepchildren hate me. (36:35)</li> </ul> Resources: Relevant Radio Dad&rsquo;s Pack <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack">https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack</a> Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> &nbsp; Phrases that will help your marriage <ol> <li>I appreciate you when you do this.</li> <li>I feel&hellip;</li> <li>How can we improve our relationship?</li> <li>I understand where you&rsquo;re coming from.</li> <li>What can I do to make things better?</li> <li>I apologize for_________________.</li> <li>Can we talk more about this?</li> </ol>

Making marriage even better

Why does God allow suffering in our lives, and how should we respond to it? In this meditation, Fr. Paul Donlan reflects on St. Joseph as a model of faithful endurance, explaining that suffering is an unavoidable part of life but also a means by which God forms us in holiness. Drawing from Hebrews 12, he emphasizes that God’s discipline, though painful, is an expression of a loving Father shaping His children to share in Christ’s holiness. Like Joseph, who obediently faced uncertainty, hardship, and responsibility without complaint — Christians are called to carry the crosses given to them with trust in God’s providence. By looking to Jesus, the ultimate model who endured the Cross, believers can understand both the purpose of suffering and the way to live through it: with humility, prayer, and confidence that God, along with Mary, Joseph, the angels, and the communion of saints, accompanies them on the path toward holiness and heaven.