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Today on the podcast… Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, encourages us to be contemplatives in the middle of the world, and explains why prayer is an essential ingredient, if we are to be leaven for the world. <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 Leaven for the World

Today Doug unpacks how to stress proof your marriage this Christmas season. All the shopping, and preparing can interfere with the celebration of the birth of our Savior and can lead to one or both spouses feeling unappreciated. Doug discuses tips that can help spouses work together to create a sense of balance.   Resources:   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>   Ruah Woods Institute <a href="https://www.ruahwoodsinstitute.org/">https://www.ruahwoodsinstitute.org/</a>   The Gift of Forgiveness <a href="https://relevantradio.com/2024/12/the-gift-of-forgiveness/">https://relevantradio.com/2024/12/the-gift-of-forgiveness/</a>

Stress Proof Marriage at Christmas

Doug shares instances ranging from premarital sex to marital infidelity and asks listeners to call in and share the advice they would give in these situations. Callers weigh in, and Doug gives his advice on how to better communicate in marriage and unpacks the power of forgiveness and regular confession. &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Who wants to be a therapist?

This meditation was preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai on at Lyncroft centre in Toronto, January 19, 2025.
You may have heard that Pope Francis has published his autobiography, published by Penguin Canada, now that he is an old man, and his pontificate has lasted longer than anyone expected.
Here is what he tells his readers: “If one day you are overcome by fears and worries, think of that episode in the Gospel of John, at the marriage at Cana (John 2:1– 12), and say to yourselves: The best wine has yet to be served.”

The Best Wine is Yet to Come

#10MinuteswithJesus

** Put yourself in the presence of God. Try talking to Him.
** 10 minutes are 10 minutes. Even if you can get distracted, reach the end.
** Be constant. The Holy Spirit acts "on low heat" and requires perseverance.

10-Minute audio to help you pray.
Daily sparks to ignite prayer: a passage from the gospel, an idea, an anecdote and a priest who speaks with you and the Lord, inviting you to share your intimacy with God.
Find your moment, consider you are in His presence and click play.

30-11-25 I Will Be Your Waiter (RS)

Michael Pakaluk joins Doug to discuss the news of the opening of Ruth Pakaluk&rsquo;s cause for canonization.

Are you married to a future saint?

Doug unpacks 12 ways to keep your spouse deeply in love with you. From making your spouse feel like the most important person in the room, to surprising each other in the ways that matter, these tips will help to keep your love from growing stale. 12 ways to keep your spouse deeply in love with you <ol> <li>Make your spouse feel like they are the most important person in the room.</li> <li>Don&rsquo;t let life get in the way of laughing.</li> <li>Argue in the right way. It&rsquo;s not about winning but growing together.</li> <li>Surprise each other in ways that matter.</li> <li>Give space to grow as individuals.</li> <li>Keep the romance alive even when life gets busy.</li> <li>Say thank you for the small things.</li> <li>Turn off the world and pay attention to each other.</li> <li>Cheer each other on through life&rsquo;s most difficult challenges.</li> <li>Share goals that give the relationship purpose.</li> <li>Communicate honestly, even when it&rsquo;s uncomfortable.</li> <li>Never stop choosing each other every day.</li> </ol>

Building virtue to stay deeply in love

Jesus Christ came to earth not only to save us from sin and death but also to show us how to embrace suffering and persevere through temptation.In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the three temptations Christ endured while in the desert and explains how we can follow his example when facing temptation in our daily life. Through his humanity, Christ gives witness to the intentional effort needed to turn away from sin and achieve growth in our spiritual life. As St. Josemaria Escriva writes: “The whole episode is a mystery which man cannot hope to understand: God submitting to temptation, letting the evil one have his way. But we can meditate upon it, asking our Lord to help us understand the teaching it contains” (Christ is Passing By, no. 61). <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 Temptations of Christ

What does it really mean to follow Jesus and take up our cross each day? In this meditation, Fr. Luke Mata reflects on Christ’s challenging call in Luke 9:23 to deny oneself, take up the cross daily, and follow Him, emphasizing that authentic Christianity cannot exist without sacrifice and self-denial. He explains that the “cross” is usually not dramatic martyrdom but the small, hidden acts of daily mortification and self-discipline through which believers die to their own desires and unite their sufferings with Christ. By freely embracing suffering and offering it in love, Christians participate in Christ’s redemptive work, transforming pain into a means of salvation for themselves and others. Fr. Luke urges believers to rediscover the spiritual value of sacrifice and to courageously live a faith that accepts the cross, trusting that through it God brings life, redemption, and renewal to the world.

Carrying The Cross With Jesus

Opening

Preface

Book 1, Chapter 1

Book 1, Chapter 2

Book 1, Chapter 3

Book 1, Chapter 4

Book 1, Chapter 5

Book 1, Chapter 6

Book 1, Chapter 7

Book 1, Chapter 8

Book 2, Chapter 1

Book 2, Chapter 2

Book 2, Chapter 3

Book 2, Chapter 4

Book 2, Chapter 5

Book 2, Chapter 6

Book 2, Chapter 7

Book 2, Chapter 8

Appendix

Closing

"No one has greater love than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends." &ndash;John 15:13 What does it mean to live friendship as a Christian? In a culture of fleeting connections and digital noise,&nbsp;The Company We Keep&nbsp;offers a compelling return to the wisdom of Aristotle, St. Thomas Aquinas, the Gospel, and Christian tradition to rediscover the lost art and meaning of true friendship as a vital part of holiness and disicpleship. Catholic philosopher Michael Pakaluk invites readers to see friendship not as optional, but essential: a moral, spiritual, and deeply human bond that reflects our highest calling. With clarity and warmth, he explores the kinds of friendship that shape our lives&mdash;from casual camaraderie to the deep, sacrificial love between spouses, parents, and children. Whether you seek richer relationships, deeper community, or a more meaningful life of faith, this book will challenge and inspire you to choose your company wisely&mdash;and to become the kind of friend that is crucial and indispensable in the lives of your loved ones. It is a book about community, growing in love, and following Christ more closely&mdash;together.&nbsp;

The Company We Keep (audiobook)

In this meditation, Fr. Peter Armenio helps us to pray and go deeper in our understanding and love for the Eucharist as we prepare for the feast of Corpus Christi. On Corpus Christi, it is a common practice in many Catholic churches to hold a Eucharistic procession following Mass. This procession is symbolic of our work as modern day apostles. We are each called to be a living monstrance, bringing the light of Christ into every aspect of our life: our family, our work place, our social gatherings, etc. Like the saints, Eucharistic devotion should be a common trait in our personal witness of Christ and our personal ability to spread the Gospel. Fr. Peter, therefore, encourages us to make the resolution to spend time regularly in front of the Blessed Sacrament— our oasis where we are nourished and fueled by love. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/A-Living-Monstrance-.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

A Living Monstrance (Rebroadcast)

Forgiveness is difficult but essential, especially within marriage. Licensed marriage and family therapist, Doug Hinderer shares his insights into what forgiveness in marriage is, what it isn’t, and how our spouse’s defects are something to be loved.Doug can be found: <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com</a>

Ep. 18 Forgiveness in Marriage (with Doug Hinderer)

"Why have the gentiles raged and the people devised vain things?" Psalm 2:1Jake, Louis, and Pat continue exploring the themes of Psalm 2, Verse 1, unraveling the raw, passionate rage of the nations against God. Their discussion isn’t just academic; it’s an investigation into how this ancient rebellion resonates within our own lives today. As they unpack the rich allegorical interpretations, get ready for a thorough examination of the impulsive nature of human defiance and the stark contrast between our primal instincts and the profound capacity for reason.Tune in as they tease apart the powerful concept of kingship as a form of service and sonship, ultimately revealing Christ as the greatest embodiment of this vision. Don’t miss out on this captivating conversation that promises not only to challenge your perceptions but to inspire your spirit!

Verse 1, Part 2 - Rage and Rebellion

In this homily from Blessed Alvaro’s Feast Day, Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of the Prelature of Opus Dei, shares some personal stories of his encounters with Blessed Alvaro del Portillo. What you’ll hear: -About Blessed Alvaro’s pilgrimage to St. Mary’s of the Angels Church in Chicago, IL -Fr. Peter Armenio’s encounters with, and stories of, Blessed Alvaro -About Blessed Alvaro’s personality -Blessed Alvaro’s recipe for happiness -How Blessed Alvaro helped Pope Saint John Paul II <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>

Personal Encounters with Blessed Alvaro del Portillo

Today on the podcast…  Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, reflects on why the Incarnation is Good News of great joy, and how Christmas is ultimately a celebration of radical access to God.  <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Christmas, A Celebration of Divine Access

Today's reading comes from Volume 1 of In Conversation with God for Wednesday of the third week of Advent.

The Signs - In Conversation with God

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 & Gratitude (Rebroadcast)

Today on the podcast… At the end of this Christmas season, Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, reflects on how our journey to Christ is like that of the magi, and what the three gifts of the magi can teach us about approaching 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>

Our Journey To Christ The Light

In this episode, we welcome Kenzie Covarrubias and Amber Hassett from Held in Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting women and families experiencing miscarriage. Together, we discuss the healing process after a miscarriage, practical ways family members can offer support, and how Held in Hope provides tools and resources to aid in the healing journey. Kenzie and Amber share powerful insights and resources to encourage charity toward others and oneself during times of loss. Learn more about their mission and access resources at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.heldinhope.org/">Held in Hope</a>.

S4 Ep. 50 - Supporting Women Through Miscarriage with Held in Hope

How should you relate to a father who abused you emotionally and physically as a child? Does a pornography addiction invalidate a marriage? &nbsp;Doug opens up the mailbag and shares advice on these questions and more. Plus: The Friday rant! Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Cindy - I've been dating a man for three months and not heard an 'I love you'. My boyfriend is not very affectionate. We do hug and kiss, but he won&rsquo;t show it with his words. (34:10)</li> <li>Deedee - I just recently stopped communication with a married man. It was not sexual but emotional. How do I stay away? (38:27)</li> </ul> Resources: &nbsp; Handbook of Catholic Apologetics <a href="https://ignatius.com/handbook-of-catholic-apologetics-hcatap/">https://ignatius.com/handbook-of-catholic-apologetics-hcatap/</a> &nbsp; Yes or No? Straight Answers to Tough Questions About Christianity <a href="https://ignatius.com/yes-or-no-ynp/">https://ignatius.com/yes-or-no-ynp/</a> &nbsp; Five Proofs of the Existence of God <a href="https://ignatius.com/five-proofs-of-the-existence-of-god-fpegp/">https://ignatius.com/five-proofs-of-the-existence-of-god-fpegp/</a> &nbsp; The Forgiveness Institute <a href="https://internationalforgiveness.com/">https://internationalforgiveness.com/</a> &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>

Does a pornography addiction invalidate a marriage?

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the first evangelical words of Christ—&quot;Come and see&quot;—and the power of personal witness in evangelization. He highlights how spreading the Gospel does not require grand gestures but genuine relationship, as seen in the example of John the Baptist, who led his disciples to Jesus, and in the early Church, where ordinary laypeople shared the faith in their daily lives.  Drawing from John 1:39, Fr. Peter emphasizes that evangelization starts with personal conversion and time spent with Christ: &quot;They came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day.&quot; He reminds us that just as St. Andrew brought St. Peter to Jesus, we, too, are called to bring others to him through our joy, kindness, and authentic Christian witness.  <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Come-and-See-Drawing-Others-to-Christ-Transcript-.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/come-and-see/'>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>

Come and See: Drawing Others to Christ

Should you get involved to help your parents&rsquo; marriage? What can you do if your reversion to the faith is causing more tension in the marriage? Doug answers these questions and more. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Hellen - My husband and I have been married for 42 years and the Holy Spirit finally got a hold of him and he just converted after all this time. (21:54)</li> <li>Jessica - I also witnessed abuse of my father on my mother and we spoke up after he did something. We all gathered up the courage and told him no. He never hurt her again. (36:42)</li> </ul>

Breaking Cycles of Verbal Abuse

In this special podcast episode, Fr. Luke Mata shares a reflection on how we can better accompany Christ in his Passion this Holy Week.We hope our followers have wonderful Easter! <a href="https://www.fairestloveshrine.org/contact-us">Subscribe</a> to the Fairest Love newsletter for more podcasts, insightful blog posts, and updates!

S4 Ep. 14 - Holy Week Reflection with Fr. Luke Mata

Listen to a portion of St. Josemaria Escriva's Advent meditation, The Christian Vocation from the book Christ is Passing By. The passage comes from points 7-11.

The Christian Vocation - Christ is Passing By

In this podcast, Fr. Donncha Ó hAodha reflects on how the universal call to adoration is the source of our happiness and the source of our true human flourishing and maturing. We can achieve our fullest human and spiritual potential insofar as we worship and adore God with our whole being and with our lives. The universal call to adoration, to give all the glory to God, especially through our ordinary, secular, daily, and sometimes mundane/repetitive realities, in no way demeans the human person, but rather raises us up, embellishes all that we have, and enhances all that we are. As we celebrate the Feast of the Archangels (September 29), Fr. Donncha reminds us that the first function of the angels is to give glory to God. St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael are adorers of the Lord! It&apos;s not surprising that the saints, like St. Josemaria Escriva, would have great devotion to the Archangels, who stand before the throne of God and who kneel before the throne of God in adoration. The Book of Job tells us that man&apos;s life on earth is a struggle or battle. There is, undoubtedly, a battle going on between good and evil. For all of us in the Church, the Archangels are our great allies. We&apos;re not alone in our battle. In our call to adoration, we are praying within the warmth, the company, the presence of a family, in communion with the Holy Church. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Universal-Call-to-Adoration-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/universal-call-to-adoration/'>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>

The Universal Call to Adoration

As most of us look forward to the New Year for a fresh start and the opportunity to begin again, especially our resolutions and goals, you have likely spent time time reflecting on resolutions for your spiritual life and the ultimate (lifelong) goal to become a saint. To inspire and motivate our spiritual goals, we are launching the New Year with a three-part podcast series from Fr. Javier del Castillo exploring the prominent themes in Towards Holiness— a homily by St. Josemaria Escriva on the universal call to holiness. In this podcast, the first of the series, Fr. Javier reflects upon two important questions set forth in &quot;Towards Holiness&quot;: What does it mean to be holy? What does it mean that God’s will for us is to become saints? The writings and spirituality of St. Josemaria continually remind us that holiness can be found in each moment of everyday life. In seeking the grace of Christ in each moment, we increase our desire and capacity to love others and communicate God’s light to the world.<a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

God's Will For Us, That We Be Saints | Part One

28-03-26 Solidarity (MRS)

Doug goes to the mail bag to answer questions regarding a clearly narcissistic husband. Can he demand intimacy? Also, Doug addresses how to navigate intimacy for older couples. &nbsp; &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - I was in a narcissistic marriage and to me this email gives me the impression that there is abuse and it is not a good marriage. (18:15)</li> <li>Sandy - My first marriage was a civil marriage. My second marriage is to a Catholic, but his first marriage was in the Church. I have applied for an annulment but my husband refuses. What should I do? (39:16)</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; Making Sense Out of Suffering <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Making-Sense-Suffering-Peter-Kreeft/dp/0892832193">https://www.amazon.com/Making-Sense-Suffering-Peter-Kreeft/dp/0892832193</a> &nbsp; When you Suffer <a href="https://www.amazon.com/When-You-Suffer-Biblical-Understanding/dp/1616368705">https://www.amazon.com/When-You-Suffer-Biblical-Understanding/dp/1616368705</a> &nbsp; Lovemaking <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Lovemaking-Talk-about-Your-Spouse/dp/164680371X">https://www.amazon.com/Lovemaking-Talk-about-Your-Spouse/dp/164680371X</a> &nbsp; Holy Sex <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713">https://www.amazon.com/Holy-Sex-Toe-Curling-Mind-Blowing-Infallible/dp/0824524713</a>

Is my husband a narcissist?

This week, we are joined by Dr. Mary Ruth Hackett to discuss her new book, Discernment of Spirits for Beginners, and how Ignatian rules of discernment apply to the busy lives of parents and children.We dive into how parents can distinguish between psychological struggles and spiritual desolation, offering a roadmap for guiding children through fear and confusion in today's digital age. Dr. Hackett shares how understanding these spiritual movements empowers families, even in the midst of the most demanding developmental milestones.To pick up a copy of Discernment of Spirits for Beginners, visit <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/discernment-of-spirits-for-beginners/?utm_campaign=25881000-DoS%20Beginners&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;_hsenc=p2ANqtz-87Qcn4Mp7aO6pXgIMLhLK5IYahjzJ8v6nG7y5h4eIOrfHIPvJS3mXndU015iVGDYFkDSbIj6Q4me49cTHM654iBK8EZw&amp;_hsmi=385631595&amp;utm_content=385631595&amp;utm_source=hs_email">Sophia Institute Press</a>. You can find more of Dr. Hackett’s work on child development and resources on her <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://maryruthhackett.com/">website</a>.

S6 Ep. 9 - Discernment of Spirits with Dr. Mary Ruth Hackett

In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the Presentation of the Lord and the Church’s celebration of this feast on February 2. He explains the historical background of the event and what it means for us today, primarily that it is through the Presentation that we recognize Jesus as the Light of the World and we are given the hope of salvation. As disciples, Jesus’s Presentation is an invitation to bask in the Light and to radiate the Light among those we encounter each day, especially those in need of the consolation, joy and peace of Christ. St. Josemaria explains: “We are children of God. Bearers of the only flame that can light up the paths of the earth for souls, of the only brightness which can never be darkened, dimmed or overshadowed. The Lord uses us as torches, to make that light shine out… It depends on us that many should not remain in darkness, but walk instead along paths that lead to eternal life” (The Forge, no. 1). [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Christ-Light-of-the-World-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>

Christ, Light of the World

Matt 25 Tells about the stewards and their talents. Some five talents, others two. But the guy with one talent hid it, buried it, and gave it back.  Like he wanted a refund. He did t open the package. It was still wrapped in plastic. Still with the bubble wrap. 
What good is a talent that is buried in the ground? What will I do with it when I die?
Music: Original music by Michael Lee from Toronto
Thumbnail: Simone Barabino, The Death of Saint Joseph, Philbrook Museum of Art, 1620.

Dig Up Your Buried Talent and Have Hope

Dr. Mario Sacasa joins Doug to discuss the gift of marriage. They unpack the sacramental nature of marriage and the importance of emotional intimacy in marriage. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Patty - I need advice for my marriage. How can I be more emotionally intimate with my husband of 31 years?</li> <li>Maria - What about marriages without God as a foundation? How do I give advice to them?</li> <li>Shirley - Can you give us the tools to have a celibate and chaste relationship before marriage and after a divorce?</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a> Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

The gift of marriage

Sociologist Dr. Brad Wilcox joins Doug to discuss the state of marriage in the U.S. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Resources: Brad Wilcox <a href="https://ifstudies.org/about-us/brad-wilcox">https://ifstudies.org/about-us/brad-wilcox</a>

Good News for Marriage

What does it mean to be saved and redeemed? The Bible often reminds us that we are in need of the salvation and redemption which is offered to us in Christ. This unique book is an introduction to the rich theological field of soteriology, which examines profound insights contained in Sacred Scripture as well as a wealth of theological reflections present in the Church's Tradition. 
The book has chapters dedicated to salvation, redemption, as well to the mediation of Christ. The later chapters examine how Christ's mystery brings us salvation. This text gives special attention to Christ's Death and Resurrection, but also to how all of the life of Christ is a source of redemption. The book concludes with an analysis of how Christ's victory over sin and death is made operative in the daily life of the Christian.
Salvation Theology: An Introduction to Soteriology will be a helpful and formative resource for anyone interested in growing in knowledge about fundamental topics of the Christian faith.

Salvation Theology

Foreward

Chapter 1: A Son of the Church

Chapter 2: Citizens of Two Cities

Chapter 3: What the Father Was Like

Chapter 4: His Upbringing

Chapter 5: The Founder

Chapter 6: A Family and an Army

Chapter 7: Means and Obstacles

Chapter 8: Outlines of Interior Life

Chapter 9: The Bread and the Word

Chapter 10: Devotions

Chapter 11: Virtues Lived to a Heroic Degree

Chapter 12: A Reputation for Sanctity

Chapter 13: June 26, 1975

First published in English in 1996 as&nbsp;Immersed in God, this 20th anniversary edition serves an anecdotal account of the life of St. Josemaria Escriva (1902-1975). Blessed Alvaro (1914-1994) was at the saint&rsquo;s side for almost 40 years as his confessor, and from 1976 to his death as the Prelate of Opus Dei, was the successor to St. Josemaria. Blessed Alvaro relates dozens of accounts of Saint Josemaria&rsquo;s apostolate, his service to the Church, and his personality. Many of these stories only came to light after his death, when letters and tributes poured into Rome from around the world.
These lively anecdotes are gathered in 13 chapters which form a mosaic of the life of St. Josemaria and provided thousands of readers around the world with a picture of the saint, just before publication of an official three volume biography,&nbsp;The Founder of Opus Dei,&nbsp;by Andres Vazquez de Prada.

Forty Years with a Saint (audiobook)

Many young people work and study hard, are happy and sociable, but lack knowledge of decent manners in public — it either hasn't been passed on through the generations, or its importance hasn't been emphasized. And yet small details in social life have a big impact on relationships and first impressions. From learning basic table manners to public speaking; from manners relating to dating, hygiene, and technology, to appropriate clothing choices: the author illustrates these details in a straight-forward and often amusing way. As the author aptly states, "many doors and hearts are opened by good manners." Manners make strong impressions, lead to effective relationships, and shape one's character and reputation. Most importantly of all, this book teaches how to discover the good in others and how to live with more grace and style.

Living With Good Manners: A Handbook for Young People with Class

Born at the turn of the twentieth century, St. Josemari´a Escriva´ spent his life as malleable clay in the Potter's hands. He took on a very visible leadership role as a priest and as the founder of Opus Dei, with a substantial collection of writings and recorded talks "revealing the personality, tone of voice, mannerisms, and spirit of the man."
In these pages, author Fr. John Henry Hanson explores the role of leader and coach that the "Saint of the Ordinary" lived while on earth and continues to live today, drawing practical lessons on everyday sanctity, including:

•Why we should treat great saints like Joan of Arc as role models, not historical anomalies
•How a healthy spiritual life requires both prayer and work in balance
•
Why recreation is important—and how to avoid laziness and dissipation

•How to recharge our spiritual batteries using the tools God provides
•
The importance of abandonment to God—giving and entrusting without restraint

•How God uses our persistent faults to drive us toward sainthood

Never one to mince words or refrain from action, St. Josemari´a coaches us in work and rest, in times of struggle and ease, through confusion and certainty. He is for all of us—men and women of today, living and working in the midst of the world. He is for us all a coach, a father, and an excellent teacher of the elevated, virtuous, and courageous life.

Coached by Josemaría Escrivá: Lessons in Discipleship

St John of Avila, proclaimed a doctor of the Church in October 2012, offers illuminating insights on the Holy Spirit in the collection of homilies first published by Scepter in 1959. Presented as sermons given around the feasts of Ascension and Pentecost, the saint speaks directly and to the point, yet is thoughtful and affectionate in his style. He proceeds in the form of a dialogue to present the Great Unknown. The sermons begin with a short introduction and then come to a particular point supported by Scripture texts, quotations from the Fathers, well-chosen illustrations, and his own original insights. 
 Many believers may find these feasts somewhat puzzling and obscure. St. John shows how they are among the greatest feasts in the Christian calendar and deserve to be better understood.

The Holy Spirit Within

An architect and Catholic convert, Henry Menzies (who died in February 2017) originally self-published this short book which trumpets the joys, benefits, and absolute necessity of real friendship for the sake of happiness, health, and virtue. Menzies takes you on a tour of friendship through famous figures of history, recent writers, and ancient scholars. When you finish reading this book, the names, phone numbers, emails, birth dates, and anniversaries that make up the glue of real life will seem more sacred and life giving instead of dreary duties. In essence, this little book shows the value of a good friend.

Whatever Happened To Friendship?

One of the young men who accompanied St. Josemaría Escrivá on his escape to freedom during the Spanish Civil War was Tomás Alvira. He wished to follow the founder of Opus Dei in a life of apostolic dedication, but as a married, rather than a single, person. St. Josemaría advised him to wait and, at the right time, he could become part of Opus Dei as well as be a family man with wife and children, which happened within 10 years. 
   
Our Lives in His Hands by Olga Marlin is the story of the life and adventures of Tomás and his wife Paquita, who raised a large family and whose cause of holiness is now progressing through the approval process of the Catholic Church.

Our Lives in His Hands: An Ordinary Couple's Path to Holiness

Do you ever feel anxious? Do you have trouble making decisions? Dr. Johann D&rsquo;Souza joins Doug to discuss anxiety and its effect on marriage. Dr. D&rsquo;Souza shares insight into what can help a person who struggles with anxiety. &nbsp; Resource mentioned: Values First Therapy https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.com/ &nbsp;

Effects of Anxiety on Marriage

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai on October 18, 2024 at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto. Luke the Evangelist was born a Greek and a Gentile from Antioch in Syria. Luke is symbolised by the ox, a symbol of strength and of sacrifice. But also Luke wanted to preserve the face of Mary for us. He is the painter of Mary: Tradition says he produced the first devotional icons of the mother of God. He preserved her yes to her vocation. He'll help preserve our yes to the vocation to Opus Dei.
Music: Carlos Gardel (1890-1935), Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Luke Painting the Virgin, by Giorgio Vasari 1565 Basilica della Santissima Annunziata, Florence.

St. Luke, the Painter of Mary

Are you frustrated in your marriage and don’t know what to do next? Should you use therapy only as a last resort? Doug continues to unpack 16 things a marriage therapist wants you to know.

Things a Therapist Wants You to Know (Part 2)

First published in English in 1996 as Immersed in God, this 20th anniversary edition serves an anecdotal account of the life of St. Josemaria Escriva (1902-1975). Blessed Alvaro (1914-1994) was at the saint's side for almost 40 years as his confessor, and from 1976 to his death as the Prelate of Opus Dei, was the successor to St. Josemaria. Blessed Alvaro relates dozens of accounts of Saint Josemaria's apostolate, his service to the Church, and his personality. Many of these stories only came to light after his death, when letters and tributes poured into Rome from around the world.
These lively anecdotes are gathered in 13 chapters which form a mosaic of the life of St. Josemaria and provided thousands of readers around the world with a picture of the saint, just before publication of an official three volume biography, The Founder of Opus Dei, by Andres Vazquez de Prada.

40 Years With a Saint: Blessed Alvaro del Portillo

20-02-26 Truly Fasting is Truly Slowing (MRS)

17-02-26 When Jesus was frustrated (JB)

In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan shares a reflection on the gift of mercy as seen through the Gospel of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11). This Gospel passage leads us to reflect inward and ask ourselves: how quickly do we pass judgement on others without even realizing it? The main goal of Satan is to create division among people, whether it be a family, a church community or an entire society. The main antidote to this divisiveness and negativity is mercy. Mercy is God’s free gift to us as his children and it allows us to reunite with one another. Pope St. John Paul II explains that every human being is a neighbor to be loved. If we have to ask ourselves “who is my neighbor?”, then we are already setting limits and conditions. Instead, the question we should seek to ask is: “to whom should I become a neighbor?” We must love our neighbors as ourselves and show mercy to all those around us. <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 Gift of Mercy

In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses the true meaning of patriotism and gives suggestions for how dads can help foster it in children.


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

Episode 26: Patriotism

In this new podcast from the St. Josemaria Institute, Fr Javier del Castillo reflects on St John the Baptist to show how, like the saint, “we can become active listeners of the Word in our hearts.”In particular, this talk aims “to persuade you to embrace a lifestyle where there is room for reading and meditation on Sacred Scripture or other spiritual reading, like the lives of the saints and other spiritual classics, that can help us grow in our interior lives.” Among the recommendations in this talk are the three steps to get started on your spiritual reading plan: 1. Make TimeEach day set aside time for spiritual reading (10-15 minutes) and Biblical reading (5-10 minutes). 2. Take Notes As you are reading or when you finish, write down what strikes you and what moves you. Also, start writing a list of passages from the Bible that you can frequently take to your prayer - make a top 100 list! 3. PracticeWhat are you going to put into practice— a resolution, a goal, or a small sacrifice— that day (or the next) from your reading? For a list of recommended readings view our featured <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/book-of-the-month/'>Book of the Month</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>

Spiritual Reading for Your Interior Life

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College in Toronto on December 3, 2025, on the feast of Saint Francis Xavier.Matthew 15:29–37 recounts Jesus healing many sick people by the Sea of Galilee. Matthew tells us about how there were large crowds of people. They were not just numbers to him, or statistics. They brought these people to him. The illnesses were varied. He made them whole again.  There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves&quot;. But that clearly did not make sense. It was not logical, as the disciples barely had enough for themselves. But with that little contribution, those few loaves, and a couple of fish, that was enough for Jesus. It can be enough too in our apostolate.Music: O Holy Night by Christmas choir in Youtubetomp3.scThumbnail: Mosaic cycle Saint Apollinare Nuovo in Ravenna 6th century, AD.

You Can Multiply your Few Loaves and Fish

Doug discusses how marriage is affected when the wife is the primary breadwinner. Callers weigh in with their perspectives and experience. Doug shares the pros and cons when the wife is the primary breadwinner Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mike - My wife has made more money for the last 40 years. Why would that be perceived as a problem?&nbsp;&nbsp; Is there any Catholic position on this?</li> <li>Sarah - I was the sole breadwinner, and my husband wasn't working at all. I got a ton of backlash, he accused me and we are now separated.</li> <li>Carol - I stopped working when I had my twins. My husband was always at work and now my children resent me. Talks about the &ldquo;Turkey Plate&rdquo;</li> <li>Janet - I have worked to be the breadwinner of my house. It went very well, but seven years into it, I stopped and I'm now divorced.</li> </ul>

When the wife is the primary breadwinner

In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan guides us to pray and ask God to help us to stand back to take a look at our life on earth and to realize that our time here is very short. The great project of our life is gradual transformation into another Christ, explains Fr. Fred. We long to change and to be transformed. Therefore, a sign that we truly and passionately want to be fully alive is our willingness to be mindful of every moment and day of our life. We don&apos;t want to be sleepwalking or flying blind through life. We want to reflect on deeper things and focus on things that are important, asking ourselves often: Why do I give so much importance to things that just do not matter in the bigger scope of things? This gives us perspective and peace. And it allows us to give ourselves and our souls space to take time to do things calmly and in the right order. Fr. Fred also shares strategies that can help us to live heroically every minute of our life, including not allowing ourselves to waste time trying to undo the past and focusing on the importance of helping our loved ones prepare for death. The fact is that a life well lived, which is what we&apos;re all looking for, will have reverberations down through the centuries. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-Great-Project-of-Our-Life-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/the-great-project-of-our-life/'>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>

The Great Project of Our Life

THE LITANY OF LORETO originates many generations back in Church history and popular devotion continuously added appellations of Mary as an expression of thanksgiving, honor, or petition. Even in modern times, the number of titles given to the Blessed Virgin Mary continues to grow, with approvals of new titles by two of the last three popes.
This book on the Litany summarizes the origin of the present 53 titles. The explanations help deepen one's Marian piety while also learning about the history of the Church and Mary's constant and powerful help in protecting and advancing it. Those who pray the Litany of Loreto after reciting the Rosary will be enriched by learning more about each of these titles of the Blessed Mother.

The Litany of Loreto: How It Came to Be

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached the meditation at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto on May 4th, 2024.
Our lady will teach us, she will nudge us, because she is teacher of prayer. When we pray, we ask her ut loquaris pro nobis bona, to speak well on our behalf before the Lord.  She speaks well of us. Intercedes while we pray, while we work, while we keep our minds occupied.
Original music intro by Michael Lee of Toronto.
 
Thumbnail: Sassoferrato Virgin in Prayer, 1640-50 National Gallery, London.