The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-holy-thursday'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

iPray with the Gospel | Holy Thursday

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

Jim and Maureen Otremba join Doug to discuss their Banquet of Love Program, a 12-part course that helps you make practical connections between the Eucharist and your marriage. They discuss the 8 intimacies of the Eucharist and how they relate to marriage.   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   The Center for Family Counseling <a href="https://www.thecenterforfamilycounseling.com">https://www.thecenterforfamilycounseling.com</a>   Banquet of Love program <a href="https://banquetoflove.org/">https://banquetoflove.org/</a> Use code 30 OFF for discount

The 8 Intimacies of the Eucharist

Are you having trouble making a decision or knowing what God's will is? This passage from Jacques Philippe's Searching for and Maintaining Peace will give you some helpful tips on making decisions when you feel restless.

Unrest in Decisions - Searching for and Maintaining Peace

Do you feel like you and your spouse are just roommates? Is your spouse emotionally unavailable? Today, Doug discusses loneliness&nbsp;in marriage. He shares the signs and science of loneliness, and offers concrete solutions for overcoming loneliness. PLUS: The Friday rant! Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mirna - I can relate to loneliness in marriage. I think my husband might be asexual and my kids have special needs. (19:58)</li> <li>Christina - I have a friend whose husband just cheated. His reason for cheating was he felt lonely. (31:20)</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://catholictherapists.com/">https://catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; The Gottman Institute <a href="https://www.gottman.com/">https://www.gottman.com/</a> &nbsp; Emotionally Focused Therapy <a href="https://iceeft.com/">https://iceeft.com/</a> &nbsp; Signs of loneliness in marriage <ol> <li>You feel like roommates.</li> <li>Your emotional bids go unnoticed.</li> <li>You stop sharing intimate thoughts and feelings.</li> </ol>

Overcoming loneliness in marriage

In our meditation of the week, Fr. Peter Armenio explores the profound significance of the Blessed Virgin Mary&apos;s role in bringing Christ to others. Fr. Peter emphasizes how Mary, our mother and queen, is the shortcut to Jesus Christ. She&apos;s not just for comfort, but also a force against evil and for evangelization. In Scripture, she&apos;s our hope, revealed from Genesis to Revelation as the one who crushes evil. Just as she appeared to humble shepherds at Fatima, she calls us to spread her son&apos;s kingdom, no matter our size or influence. Fr. Peter reflects on how our apostolate is a war of love and peace, fought with prayer as our primary weapon. Mary&apos;s intercession has led to victories over communism and countless conversions. With faith and humility, let&apos;s join her in changing the world through prayer and action. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/a-war-of-love-and-peace/'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

A War of Love and Peace

Doug Hinderer, licensed marriage and family therapist, shares insights into God’s plan for marriage. In this episode, we look at CS Lewis’ Four Loves, and then dive into Agape love and what that is meant to look like for married couples today. You’ll learn about the four characteristics of Agape love: permanent, exclusive, public, and fruitful. And lastly, Doug shares insights into what marriage truly IS.Resources mentioned:CS Lewis: The Four Loves <a href="https://www.cslewis.com/four-types-of-love/">https://www.cslewis.com/four-types-of-love/</a>Doug can be found at: <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com</a>

Ep. 1 The Christian Foundation for Marriage

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College in Toronto on August 10, 2024. Yesterday was the feast of St. Edith Stein, Theresa Benedicta of the Cross. Beatified in 1987 then canonized in 1998 by Pope John Paul II.  She is one of the 6 patrons of Europe.
Both she and St. Lawrence (today&#39;s feast) were martyrs for the faith.
She was a Jew that converted after reading Theresa of Avila, and studying with Edmund Husserl. Then she went on to become a Carmelite nun. She was killed at Auschwitz. 
In 1941 she wrote to a friend, who was also a member of her order: &quot;One can only gain a &quot;scientia crucis&quot; (knowledge of the cross) if one has thoroughly experienced the cross. I have been convinced of this from the first moment onwards and have said with all my heart: &#39;Ave, Crux, Spes unica&#39; (I welcome you, Cross, our only hope).&quot; Her study on St. John of the Cross is entitled: &quot;Kreuzeswissenschaft&quot; (The Science of the Cross).
How does this fit into our vocation?
Music: FALL - Adrian Berenguer (Album Singularity)

The Science of the Cross

Doug continues to unpack ways to reconnect with your spouse. He shares the importance of gratitude and making a daily effort to let your spouse know how important they are in your life. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Martha - I've been to counseling with my husband. Everything Doug says, I do, and my husband says he'll do, but he doesn't. He says that 15 minutes a day too much time. What should I do?</li> <li>Mary - How do I approach my husband about his mother. We seem to argue about her a lot.</li> <li>Elizabeth - My husband and I are meeting a non-Catholic therapist tomorrow. He's an Atheist.&nbsp; What do you think about what we're doing?&nbsp; Any words of encouragement before we go?</li> </ul> Resources: Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>

Ways to reconnect with your spouse (Part 2)

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

Do you discuss marital intimacy with your spouse? Doug discusses marital intimacy and the cross; how physical intimacy in marriage leads to God and that marital crosses are good if they are used to grow in holiness.

Marital Intimacy and the Cross

As we live the Unity Octave and prepare for the feast of St. Paul the Apostle on January 25th, here is a portion of Chapter 3 of Fr. Nathan Cromly's book Coached by Paul the Apsotle: Lessons in Leadership.

Hold Your Head High - Coached by Paul the Apostle

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

&ldquo;Thomas More is more important at this moment than at any moment since his death, even perhaps the great moment of his dying; but he is not quite so important as he will be in about a hundred years&rsquo; time.&rdquo;
In 1929, G. K. Chesterton made this claim with acute perception. One of history&rsquo;s greatest lawyers and statesmen and most admired figures of all time, Thomas More was voted &ldquo;Lawyer of the Millennium&rdquo; by the Law Society of Great Britain and named &ldquo;Patron of Statesmen&rdquo; by John Paul II.
He combined immense humanistic learning with an unequaled command of the legal and political traditions of Christendom, forging a profound philosophy of statesmanship and freedom. He possessed the virtues of an exemplary husband, father, and friend and the detachment and interior peace of a saint. He thus emerged from the first great crisis of modern tyranny&mdash;a crisis that would claim his life&mdash;as the model of a truly free man, whose conscience and character no despot could subvert.
Thomas More was canonized in 1935 as Hitler was rising to power and the world needed an example of courage and skill in the face of the greatest of dangers. This book reveals how More prepared himself for the challenges of his life, and how he rose to the demands placed upon him.

Thomas More: A Portrait of Courage (audiobook)

In this week's episode, we speak with Victor Saenz, Executive Director of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://houstoninstitute.org/">Houston Institute</a>, about how philosophical inquiry shapes students’ understanding of human flourishing, marriage, and family. Victor shared how his work introduces college students to moral reasoning and classical thought, helping them reevaluate cultural assumptions and rediscover timeless truths. We explored how perceptions of marriage and family evolve on campus, the challenges of navigating ideological divides, and why young adults benefit from engaging with great thinkers. This conversation offers a hopeful look at how higher education can spark virtue, dialogue, and deeper meaning in the next generation!

S5 Ep. 32 - Teaching Virtue and Moral Reasoning to the Next Generation with Victor Saenz

Doug gives advice on what to do when one spouse doesn’t want to work on improving their marriage. He also tackles listener questions on betrayal, forgiveness and unpacks 20 small gestures to show how much you care.

Small gestures to show you care

If you could time travel and start life all over again, how would you live it? We all have past regrets, but also lessons learned. Unless we develop good habits, we fall into either excesses or defects. Whether it's about work, food, relationship, health, sex, or business, we need to make right choices. 
Classical Greek philosophy and Christian Ethics point to us the tools we need to live a good and righteous life: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. These are called cardinal virtues (Latin cardo-hinge) for they serve as the foundation of a good moral life. 
At a time when moral relativism is the order of the day, when the sense of sin is somehow lost, we need to go back to the basics. The book you hold in your hands takes up this task. Deep and engaging,¬†it illustrates the moral principles with down-to-earth examples, showing the perennial relevance of the cardinal virtues. Beyond that, the¬†author invites the reader to take a moral stand in life.

Cardinal Virtues in Focus: Why It Matters to Think and Act Well

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Leo Austin focuses on living the present moment with meaning and gratitude, recognizing our time and talents as gifts from God. Fr. Leo reflects on the parable of the talents, emphasizing that God entrusts each of us with unique gifts and opportunities, allowing us to participate in his creation. Our life and time are opportunities to give what we have received by transforming them and filtering them through our hearts into something better and greater. Therefore, it is important for us to use our talents or vocation for the good of others, co-creating with love and freedom, and transforming ordinary moments into encounters with God. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Time-and-Talents-Giving-Meaning-to-Our-Existence-Transcript.pdf'>VIEW TRANSCRIPT</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>VISIT SHOW PAGE</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Time and Talents: Giving Meaning to Our Existence

Get a sneak peek at the first chapter of Jacques Philippe's newest book, The Treasure of Prayer. This book will help you discover the different facets of prayer and all the means that the Church gives us to cultivate it, persevere in it, and make this treasure bear fruit.

The Treasure of Prayer

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit - Day 5 | The Holy Spirit: present among us For the complete text of today’s reflection and for additional spiritual resources visit: <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/'>http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/</a> The prayers and reflections for this devotion are taken from the “Handbook of Prayers,” published by Midwest Theological Forum.This long standing custom of the Church in preparation for Pentecost is an opportunity to ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen our hearts and make firm resolutions for our interior lives. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit | Day 5

Live from the National Eucharistic Congress from Indianapolis with Monica Hinderer.

Spreading the Faith with Children

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo leads us to pray and reflect with humility on the mystery and eternal love of the Holy Trinity: God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. &quot;The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have been in love, from all eternity, before the foundation of the world,&quot; explains Fr. Javier. “Because that love is so great… the Holy Trinity has freely chosen to create us, to have creatures with which they can share this great happiness that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit have had from all eternity.” Especially as we prepare to celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity, we recognize that our hearts and minds cannot fully understand this great mystery of faith. &quot;It&apos;s too big to fit in our minds. And yet, through faith, it has been revealed to us that it exists and that truly it is the end of our existence. We know that there must be something we do not know towards which we feel driven, and that is the Blessed Trinity, in whose image we are made.&quot; In baptism, the Holy Trinity sanctifies us and elevates us to a new level of children of God. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/podcast-trinity-eternal-love/'>Visit Show Page</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/The-Holy-Trinity-An-Eternal-Love.pdf'>View Transcript</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Holy Trinity: An Eternal Love (Rebroadcast)

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit - Day 7 | The gift of wisdom: making us know God and rejoice in his presence For the complete text of today’s reflection and for additional spiritual resources visit: <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/'>http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/</a> The prayers and reflections for this devotion are taken from the “Handbook of Prayers,” published by Midwest Theological Forum.This long standing custom of the Church in preparation for Pentecost is an opportunity to ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen our hearts and make firm resolutions for our interior lives. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit | Day 7

Letter from the Prelate of Opus Dei, February 2023: 
7. Understanding also has a close relationship with the extraordinarily important reality of forgiveness: both asking for forgiveness and forgiving. In April 1974, our Father told us that “the most divine reality in our life as Christians, as children of God in Opus Dei, is to forgive those who have hurt us.” And then he added, with great simplicity: “I have not needed to learn to forgive, because our Lord has taught me how to love.”
 this meditation at Cedarcrest conference Centre in Belfountain, Ontario, October 21, 2023.
 
 
 
 <a href="https://opusdei.org/en-ca/article/letter-from-the-prelate-16-february-2023/">https://opusdei.org/en-ca/article/letter-from-the-prelate-16-february-2023/</a>

The Treasure of Forgiveness

Thank you for listening to the 10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit on the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast! 10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit - Day 4 | Our faith in the Holy Spirit: necessarily complete For the complete text of today’s reflection and for additional spiritual resources visit: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/'>stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/</a> 10-DAY DEVOTION TO THE HOLY SPIRIT IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST: The prayers and reflections for this devotion are taken from the “Handbook of Prayers,” published by Midwest Theological Forum. This long standing custom of the Church in preparation for Pentecost is an opportunity to ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen our hearts and make firm resolutions for our interior lives. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit | Day 4

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College, Toronto, on the Feast of the Chair of Peter, February 22, 2204.
Today’s feast is like the result of the prayer of Jesus, or better, the testimony that Jesus gave of his own prayer to the Father for Peter:
“The Lord says to Simon Peter: I have prayed for you that your faith may not fail, and, once you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” (Lk 22, 32)
That prayer was immensely efficacious. How could it not? God the Son, addressing God the Father.
 Peter, St. Peter&#39;s Basilica, Rome.

The Chair of Peter

This week we're talking with author Emily Stimpson Chapman on her adoption journey. She shares her story of infertility, the decision to adopt, and the three children that now grace her home. Emily can be found: <a href="https://emilystimpsonchapman.com">https://emilystimpsonchapman.com</a>Resources she shared: Springs of Love: <a href="https://springsoflove.org">https://springsoflove.org</a>Springs in the Desert: <a href="https://springsinthedesert.org">https://springsinthedesert.org</a>

Ep. 19 Infertility and Adoption with Emily Stimpson Chapman

John 21, 2: Simon Peter said, ‘I’m going fishing.’ They replied, ‘We’ll come with you.’ They went out and got into the boat, but caught nothing that night.John says it is the Lord. Clearly, the recognition as a Eucharistic “seeing‑Jesus”: the disciples’ first proper confession of the Resurrected Lord at the dawn‑shore meal. He recognizes because he was a contemplative. Because he loved Jesus, was close to him, so close, so faithful. He was humble. In December of 1976 , Blessed Alvaro said: &quot;Be convinced that humility is always a starting point&quot;(Family letters II, 113)Music: Heartbreaking by Kevin MacLeod incompetech chosic.comThumbnail: James Tissot, Christ on the shore of the Lake of Tiberias, 1886-1894. Opaque watercolour over graphite, Brooklyn Museum.

John said: It is the Lord! Our Path to Humility

In this bonus episode, we talk with author Kevin Wells about his new book: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://michael_aquilina_scepterpublishers_org-dot-mmemails3.appspot.com/em_66GdZpNlTQLW6GcFqgrk?url=https%3A%2F%2Fscepterpublishers.org%2Fproducts%2Fpreorder-coached-by-the-cure&amp;key=9ad425d7fa52f69330a08be05c646f1f1b139b34">Coached by the Curé: Lessons in Shepherding with St. John Vianney</a>, He shares insights he gained from researching and writing this book, as well as advice for parents and priests alike!

Interview with Kevin Wells, author of Coached by the Cure

On this podcast we are invited to contemplate the apostles&apos; first encounter with Jesus Christ and how that experience was an encounter with the love He had for them. Jesus is human love with a human nature--the Word made flesh. After Jesus&apos; first conversation with Andrew and John, Andrew left the Lord&apos;s house a new man and he want out to find his brother, Simon Peter, and brought him to Jesus. From the get go, Jesus asks them (and us): &quot;Are there other people you can bring to me?&quot; Part of this following Him is to detect how much He loves us and that&apos;s a key part of the spirituality of St Josemaria Escriva. The truth that we are children of God is the backdrop to everything--that this God of mine loves me infinitely. Language is a medium of love. To get to know and love someone is a consequence of conversation--a disclosure of each person&apos;s inner self. This is why Jesus is Word because words are a medium of love. When Jesus Christ taught the apostles how to pray he told them that when you pray begin by saying God loves you, by calling Him &quot;Father&quot;.How do we experience that God loves us? We have to put Him first and unite ourselves to Him. Only when we walk with Jesus Christ can we experience the love of the Father. &quot;Before God, who is eternal, you are much more a child than, before you, the tiniest toddler. And besides being a child, you are a child of God. — Don&apos;t forget it&quot; (St. Josemaria Escriva; The Way, no. 860). Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Love of God

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit - Day 6 | The action of the Holy Spirit: teaching how to correspond to it For the complete text of today’s reflection and for additional spiritual resources visit: <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/'>http://stjosemaria.org/ten-day-devotion-holy-spirit/</a> The prayers and reflections for this devotion are taken from the “Handbook of Prayers,” published by Midwest Theological Forum.This long standing custom of the Church in preparation for Pentecost is an opportunity to ask the Holy Spirit to strengthen our hearts and make firm resolutions for our interior lives. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

10-Day Devotion to the Holy Spirit | Day 6

On April 25th we celebrate the Feast of St. Mark the Evangelist. St. Mark wrote one of the Gospel accounts and was a companion of St. Paul on his first missionary journey. However, in the Acts of the Apostles, we discover that St. Mark abandoned St. Paul, and that St. Paul would not allow St. Mark to accompany him on his second journey. In this meditation, Fr. Javier del Castillo explores the interesting dynamic between St. Paul and St. Mark, and what we can learn for our own life. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Feast of St. Mark - April 25th

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

Let St. Josemar√≠a lead you through the Stations of the Cross and help you joyfully walk the way of the Cross in your daily life. St. Josemaria provides meditations for each of the stations on the Way of the Cross. These meditations are especially suited to help find paths to holiness in the ordinary circumstances of everyday life. 

‚Ä¢ Beautifully illustrated with exquisite color paintings of the Stations of the Cross. 
‚Ä¢ Pocket-size, sturdy booklet. 

 "The Way of the Cross is not a sad devotion. Msgr. Escriva taught many times that Christian joy has its roots in the shape of a cross. If the Passion of Christ is a way of pain, it is also a path of hope leading to certain victory. As he explained in one of his homilies:¬†You should realize¬†that God wants you to be glad and that, if you do all you can, you will never for a moment be without the Cross. But that Cross is no longer a gallows. It is the throne from which Christ reigns. And at his side, his Mother, our Mother too. The Blessed Virgin will obtain for you the strength that you need to walk decisively in the footsteps of her Son" (Friends of God).
-Bishop¬†Alvaro del Portillo

The Way of the Cross

Today&#39;s reading is from Luke 18:35-43, about the blind man of Jerico, healed by Jesus.
This passage lends itself to our prayer, because we can easily conjure up the image, the sounds, the atmosphere, the smells, that the blind man was experiencing. We weren’t there, and we too are blind, in a way. And he reacted.
Saint Josemaria has a long commentary on this passage in Friends of God, from a meditation he preached on October 12, 1947.
How do I really read the Word of God, Holy Scripture, to its fullest meaning?
Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Kintore College on November 20, 2023.
Music: Handel, Opera Rinaldo, Aria Lascia che io pianga adapted for guitar by Bart Alink.
Thumbnail: Anna and Tobit by Rembrandt, 1630, National Gallery, UK.

The Blind Man: Discover the Layers of Meaning Present

Recognizing that a lot of challenges from in-laws may be rooted in misunderstanding or even unmet expectations, what better way to maneuver through those relationships than allowing for the benefit-of-the-doubt and a charitable acceptance of who they are? Janet Quinlan, certified life coach for mothers and women, explains how to navigate your relationships with in-laws, establish boundaries (on both sides), and change your thoughts to better understand and love your spouse’s parents. Janet’s podcast Finding Joy in Marriage &amp; Motherhood can be found on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-joy-in-marriage-motherhood-janet-quinlan/id1541224120">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/63BM5H41ttxCkYcTVefvVa?si=a6b008a5603e403c">Spotify</a>, and other platforms. You can visit her website at&nbsp;<a href="http://janetquinlan.com">janetquinlan.com</a><a href="https://www.fairestloveshrine.org/contact-us">Subscribe</a>&nbsp;to the Fairest Love newsletter for more podcasts, insightful blog posts, and updates!

S4 Ep. 7 Navigating Your Relationships with Your In-Laws with Janet Quinlan

“Make friends with the Holy Spirit. Don’t speak to him; listen.”Drawing upon this simple direction given to St. Josemaria in regard to his devotion to the Holy Spirit, Msgr. Dolan prompts us in this week’s podcast to deepen our personal friendship with the Holy Spirit and encourages us to strengthen our conviction that the Holy Spirit is as active and as powerful as ever. We, therefore, must cultivate the virtue of docility to follow His lead and practice the virtue of hope as we seek to fulfill the will of God on Earth.<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Enkindling-the-Holy-Spirit-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/recollection-june-year-a/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Enkindling the Holy Spirit

Edited by Stephen Smith¬†
Foreword by Gerard Wegemer¬†
For the first time in forty years, the selected letters of St. Thomas More‚Äîson, husband, father, friend, statesman and martyr‚Äîare now available in this newly edited volume for the contemporary reader. Moving from the days of his youth to the startling drama of his final years, this collection serves as a "life in letters" and offers the reader fresh insight into More's education, formation, and character, visible both in season and out of season, in little matters as well as great controversies.
 The first English writer to use the word "integrity," More struggled to live as well as he wrote, with personal virtue, solid piety, and a well-formed conscience. These letters reflect all the facets of his humanity and personality, and through them, one may begin to glimpse the living face of this famous "man for all seasons," as he was known even in his own time. 
 In addition to the letters from Thomas More, the book offers introductory notes on the family members, friends, and other historical figures relevant to his life's history.

For All Seasons: Selected Letters of Thomas More

Doug reads a letter by Alice Von Hildebrand from her book: By Love Refined. In this letter, Alice shares the importance of emotional safety and protecting your spouse in marriage. Doug unpacks 4 behaviors that erode trust and 3 behaviors that nurture trust in marriage. Listener questions and comments: &middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; How can I balance being positive about a situation when my husband doesn't want to see the flip side? &middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; What&rsquo;s the difference between detraction and getting family support or help? &middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In divorce court, they force you to reveal things that you might not want to or are trying to be charitable about so that they can better represent you and get a better deal. &middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Is it bad to share my husband&rsquo;s mental health struggles with my son&rsquo;s teacher? &middot;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; My husband had an affair. He said they were just talking but I saw the texts. He told me he saw a priest but kept texting her anyway. He is pretending that nothing happened. What should I do? &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> &nbsp; By Love Refined: Letters to a Young Bride <a href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOorUgJaOCIHW8hoPqGRrxDbbFqkhbw_d24v5fEaakO8PoW5a_pcR">https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOorUgJaOCIHW8hoPqGRrxDbbFqkhbw_d24v5fEaakO8PoW5a_pcR</a>

Emotional safety in marriage

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-11th-sunday-in-oridinary-time'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

iPray with the Gospel -  11th Sunday in Ordinary Time

What are the dangers of porn and how does it destroy marriages? Doug discusses how to help someone with a porn addiction and how to love them through it. Plus: the Friday rave. &nbsp; Pornography Resources &nbsp; Catholic Resources Websites: Roadtopurity.com &nbsp;IntegrityRestored.com MattFradd.com Catholic.com &ndash; Overcoming Porn Addition Covenanteyes.com Instituteformaritalhealing.com Reclaimsexualhealth.com Purityispossible.com Strive21.com United States Conference of Catholic Bishops approved list of pornography help resources &nbsp; Books: Integrity Restored: Helping Catholic Families Win the Battle Against Pornography Chapters 4, 5, 11 &amp; 15 are especially for wives.&nbsp; Shattered Vows: Hope and Healing for Women Who Have Been Sexually Betrayed by Debra Laaser When Your Husband is Addicted to Pornography: Healing the Wounded Heart by Vicki Tiede Pure Eyes, Clean Heart: A Couple's Journey to Freedom from Pornography by Jen &amp; Craig Ferguson Mending Shattered Hearts: A Guide for Partners of Sex Addicts by Stephanie Carnes A L.i.f.e. Guide for Spouses by Melissa Haas Integrity Starts Here! A Catholic Approach to Restoring Sexual Integrity by Dr. Peter Kleponis Delivered: True Stories of Men &amp; Women Who Turned from Porn to Purity The Porn Myth by Matt Fradd

The dangers of porn

In our meditation of the week:Msgr. Fred Dolan explores the spiritual and societal impact of our growing dependence on digital devices, particularly among the young. Drawing on insights from Professor Jonathan Haidt’s &quot;The Anxious Generation&quot; and recent cultural trends, the meditation helps us bring to our prayer the devastating effects of our digital age on our attention, mental health, and spiritual life. Listen now to reflect on: • The transformation from play-based to phone-based childhood and its devastating effects • The physical and psychological harms linked to Gen Z&apos;s digital habits • How constant screen exposure fragments attention and weakens human connection • Four practical norms to reclaim childhood: delay smartphones, limit social media, phone-free schools, and encourage free play <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Reclaiming-Childhood-in-the-Digital-Age-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/reclaiming-childhood-in-the-digital-age/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Reclaiming Childhood in the Digital Age

St. Paul's initial transformation was a dramatic shift from Saul to Paul, from persecutor to believer, from darkness to light. And yet, the scales falling from his eyes was only the beginning: he lived and taught the lesson of transformation for the rest of his life.¬†
In his book, Fr. Cromly reveals the universality and timelessness of St. Paul's leadership, what can happen if we let Christ transform our lives, and how we can find guidance from this great saint who is, in fact, much like us. Just a few of the lessons we can learn include: 

‚Ä¢ Five essential questions that help us engage our God-given freedom into action 
‚Ä¢ The forms of inner paralysis that result from giving in to fear and negativity 
‚Ä¢ How to follow Christ's call to love ‚Äì in whatever state of life we find ourselves in 
‚Ä¢ How God meets us where we are broken and weak ‚Äì and how to be open to it 
‚Ä¢ The role of the Holy Spirit in confronting fear and uncertainty 
‚Ä¢ St. Paul's secret to turning negative circumstances into positive results 
‚Ä¢ The redemptive role of the "daily grind" ‚Äì and how to use it to glorify God 

Paul is the one who dares us to be impactful Christians in an often-perilous world, and who shows us how to transform our fears into courage, our rejections into opportunities, our suffering into grace, and our solitude into union with Christ.

Coached by Paul the Apostle: Lessons in Transformation

In this podcast, as we celebrate the month of the holy Rosary, Fr. Leo Agustina shares a reflection on deepening our devotion to Our Lady through the holy Rosary, in which we discover our role in God’s plan of salvation. Reflecting on the Annunciation, Fr. Leo reminds us that Mary’s fiat, her openness to the will of God, is a pivotal moment for humankind. As she freely accepts the will of God, Mary embraces her role as our spiritual mother and demonstrates for us the power in redeeming the ordinary moments of everyday life.St. Josemaria explains: “Develop a lively devotion for Our Mother. She knows how to respond in a most sensitive way to the present we give her. What is more, if you say the Holy Rosary every day, with a spirit of faith and love, Our Lady will make sure she leads you very far along her Son’s path” (Furrow, no. 691). [<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Transcript-The-Holy-Rosary.pdf'>Transcript</a>] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Holy Rosary: A Doorway to Redemption

Throughout the month of November, the Catholic Church commemorates all the faithful souls who have departed this life but have not yet attained the joy of heaven. The Church encourages us to pray for the souls in purgatory, so that they may be freed from the bondage of sin and admitted to their eternal reward in heaven.In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan shares how we can approach our responsibility to intercede for the holy souls in purgatory. Keeping in mind those who have gone before us leads us to contemplate our own spiritual journey and encourages us to look inward and assess how our actions today will affect the demands of eternal life. As St Josemaria reminds us, “The Holy Souls in Purgatory. Out of charity, out of justice, and out of excusable selfishness – they have such power with God! – remember them often in your sacrifices and in your prayers. May you be able to say when you speak of them, ‘My good friends the souls in purgatory’” (The Way, no. 571). Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Commemoration of All Souls

St. Josemaria Escriva made many pilgrimages throughout his lifetime seeking opportunities to encounter God and praying for his conversion and of the whole world. Today’s podcast commemorates the 50th Anniversary of St. Josemaria Escriva’s pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City from May 15-24, 1970. His pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, on the Hill of Tepeyac, is recognized as the longest and one of the most important pilgrimages in his life. In this podcast, Fr. Javier shares historical insight to the pilgrimage and the lessons we can learn from St. Josemaria’s example of Marian devotion. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

St. Josemaria Escriva: A Pilgrim at Tepeyac (Rebroadcast)

In this first meditation of our Lenten series on the Seven Last Words of Christ, Msgr. Fred Dolan reflects on Jesus’ prayer from the Cross: “Father, forgive them; they know not what they do.” These words, spoken amid suffering, awaken us to the reality of sin and the mercy Christ offers to us even in our blindness. This meditation invites us to approach Lent with seriousness and sincerity, asking for the grace of true contrition and a deeper awareness of God’s point of view.  PAUSE &amp; REFLECT <ul><li>How do I make efforts to seek out and accept the mercy of Our Lord through prayer and the sacrament of Penance? </li><li>How can I deepen my appreciation of the redemptive value of my work—today and throughout the Lenten season? </li><li>As I begin this season of Lent, what relationships in my life—family, work, or social—requires more effort on my part, particularly to better communicate? </li></ul> LENT 2026 DEVOTIONAL  Download our free PDF devotional, <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/product/seven-last-words-of-christ/'>The Seven Last Words of Christ: Reflections &amp; Prayers from St. Josemaria Escriva,</a> available in our online shop. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/The-First-Word-Transcript-2.pdf'>View Transcript </a><a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/the-first-word/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The First Word: “Father, forgive them; they know not what they do.”

This episode of The Dad Project is a live recording of the second in a two-part series we're calling Adulting 101.  In Part 2, Ashton Ellis covers the topic of "Financial Adulthood" and addresses the challenges a head of household must consider when raising a family in an expensive urban center.  This episode was recorded in front of a live audience.


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

Episode 28: Adulting 101, Part 2

Doug shares phrases that will instantly strengthen your marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>John - I had a stroke and my wife is my caregiver. She is struggling to take care of me. How do I help her help me? (23:59)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: 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; Phrases to instantly strengthen your marriage <ol> <li>I appreciate you.</li> <li>I am sorry.</li> <li>I believe in you.</li> <li>How can I help?</li> <li>You make me happy!</li> <li>I trust you.</li> <li>I&rsquo;m proud of you.</li> <li>Let&rsquo;s talk about it.</li> <li>I&rsquo;m grateful for us.</li> <li>What do you think?</li> <li>I love you.</li> <li>I&rsquo;m here for you.</li> <li>I admire you.</li> <li>Thank you for being you.</li> <li>We can do this.</li> </ol>

How to instantly strengthen your marriage

In this meditation, Msgr. Fred Dolan reflects on the Feast of Divine Mercy, highlighting God’s desire to pour out an abundance of grace on those who turn to him with trust. Drawing from the writings of St. Faustina, we are reminded that no soul should fear to approach Christ, whose mercy is greater than any sin. Msgr. Dolan invites us to receive Christ&apos;s mercy and to live it out, becoming instruments of compassion, forgiveness, and understanding in a world that deeply needs it. Listen and reflect on: <ul><li>Trusting in the depth of God’s mercy </li><li>Approaching Christ with confidence, no matter our past </li><li>The grace offered through the Feast of Divine Mercy </li><li>Living mercy through our words, actions, and attitudes </li><li>Becoming instruments of compassion in daily life </li></ul><a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/The-Heart-of-Mercy-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/heart-of-mercy/'>Visit Show Page</a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Heart of Mercy

(8:28) #4 No marriage can last or survive without forgiveness (16:47) Break 1 (22:31) Heroic love of a wife (25:36) Caller - Mary Alice - I was married long ago and it ended in divorce and annulment. My biggest mistake was he was not Catholic. (31:38) Caller - Richard - Seeking help is so true. My wife and I have been married 14 years and we went into Marriage therapy which helped out so much. Cross of infertility. Blessing of foster kids (36:12) Break 2 (38:54) Clare - When is it appropriate to call it quits in a marriage and think of divorce. My husband separated 9 months ago and is having an affair. Emotionally abusive. What should I do?

Marriage Unhindered - April 6, 2024 - 6 Lessons For Marriage

For many, there is a touch of anxiety when the words of faith and finance are so close together. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Money mentors Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira of Wallet Win enlighten us on the matter. We discuss stewardship, the classic mistakes couples make, why to start budgeting now, and the idea of maximum fruitfulness.The Teixeiras can be found: <a href="https://walletwin.com">https://walletwin.com</a>Their podcast, the Catholic Money Show: <a href="https://walletwin.com/podcast/">https://walletwin.com/podcast/</a>

Ep. 20 Faith and Finances (with Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira)

Have you heard the good news of great joy?In this podcast, Fr. Eric Nicolai reflects on the moment within the Christmas narrative when the angels proclaimed the good news of Christ’s birth to the shepherds. The shepherds saw this incredible appearance of God’s glory around them, and they were given a sign: not some strange, obtuse and complicated puzzle, but rather a simple sign of a baby lying in a manger in the city of Bethlehem.God chose first to appear to the shepherds– a simple, watchful group of people. In doing so, God also invites us to set out within our hearts and to seek the infant Jesus in the manger. Fr. Eric prompts us to reflect: “If the Lord came today, are we that watchful? Or, maybe we’re more attentive to our screens, our devices, or our worries, or the latest sports results or political debates.” Rather, this Christmas, we seek the grace to be a watchful and contemplative people, ready to welcome the Infant Jesus and to hold him close in our heart. [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Transcript-Good-News-of-Great-Joy.pdf'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Good News of Great Joy

Jim and Maureen Otremba join the show to discuss how couples could use the Easter Triduum to strengthen their marriages.&nbsp; They also talk about the importance of charity in marriages.&nbsp; &nbsp;And then they take questions about marriages.&nbsp;&nbsp; Listener questions: Sarah:&nbsp; I have a friend whose husband does not respect her. How can I respect her and support her? Michelle:&nbsp; My husband and I stopped having sex and it's impacting us negatively. What can we do? Erica:&nbsp; I've been having a situation with my husband. I am jealous and it has gotten to point where our relationship has gotten worse and I'm not sure what to do. Resources:&nbsp; Retrouvaille:<a href="https://helpourmarriage.org/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0">https://helpourmarriage.org/</a> Jim and Maureen Otremba's website:<a href="https://banquetoflove.org/" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="1">https://banquetoflove.org/</a> maureenotremba@gmail.com

How to use the Easter Triduum to strengthen your marriage

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Ernescliff College on December 16, 2022.
In the first of his Infancy Narratives, Pope Benedict XVI places us at the very end of Jesus’ life as he stands in front of his accuser, Pontius Pilate. Jesus has already been beaten, one eye is swollen, he is bruised all over, and already has a crown of thorns. It's a sad sight for a king.
While he was interrogating Jesus, Pilate unexpectedly put this question to the accused: “Where are you from?”.
That was the question that was placed to him by his accuser at the end of Jesus’ life, and yet we can start to see an answer right now at the beginning as we consider his coming into this world.
Music: Die Schonsten Deutsche Weihnachtslieder, from YouTube.Berliner Mozartchor &nbsp;Stille Nacht, Heilige Nacht. Berliner Mozartchor &nbsp;Kling, Glöckchen, Klingelingeling.
Thumbnail: Gerrit Van Honthorst, Adoration of the child, 1619, from Uffizi Museum, Florence.

The Genealogy of Jesus: Where Is He From?

As we prepare to celebrate All Saints Day, November 1st, we're sharing an excerpt from Jesus Urteaga's book Saints in the World to inspire you to seek sanctity in your every day life.

You: A Soldier for Christ - Saints in the World

"If we truly want to serve mankind and the world, and thereby fulfill our Lord's command, we must love God first. For only in this love and through this love will our service to others‚Äîlove shown in deeds‚Äîbe able to imitate the incomparable grandeur of Christ's heart." These words by Fr. Oc√°riz, sum up the wisdom of this assemblage of his thoughts on God's love for mankind and our love for God‚Äîof ¬†which we cannot have too much. Indeed, he states, "to sin by having too much charity, or too much faith and hope, is strictly speaking impossible." As he juxtaposes secularization and the worship of Man with virtue, justice, and Christian fraternity, Fr. Oc√°riz pulls together a complete and sustaining testimonial of true human greatness found only through the ardent desire and fervent action of loving God and Neighbor, as Christ's heart desires of us all.

Love In Action: Loving God and Neighbor, A Twofold Commandment

Fr. Eric Nicolai preaches on the feast of St. Andrew, Apostle, in Lyncroft Centre, Toronto. Saint Andrew is said to have preached the Gospel in Greece. There, in the city of Patras, he was martyred; he died nailed to a cross, like his divine Master. The priests of Achaia who witnessed his death write that his desire to be identified with Christ was so great that when he was being led toward the place of his martyrdom and saw the cross in the distance, he began to cry out what became a famous prayer; O bona crux, quæ decórem ex membris Dómini suscepísti "O good cross, made beautiful by the body of the Lord; long have I desired you, ardently have I loved you, unceasingly have I sought you out; and now you are ready for my eager soul. Receive me from among men and restore me to my Master, so that by means of you He may receive me who by means of you redeemed me.”
 
Music: Carlos Gardel, Amores de Estudiante, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink 2018 Public domain in Canada.
Thumbnail: Guillaume Courtois, Painting of the martyrdom of St. Andrew in the church of San Andrea Al Quirinale designed by G-L Bernini in Rome, 17th century.

St. Andrew : Do I Love the Cross God Sends Me?

In today’s podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo explains why priests need our prayers and reflects on the four characteristics of a priestly soul according to St. Josemaria Escriva. What You’ll Hear: 2:05 – Why pray for priests? 4:05 – How priests are like great chefs 5:30 – How the priesthood is a gift of God to the Church 8:25 – What is the vocation of a priest? 14:00 – How prayer for priests actually makes a difference 16:05 – St. Josemaria’s advice to his brother priests 17:35 – How St. John Vianney was a model priest 18:35 – Why St. Josemaria turned down positions of prestige 20:30 – Why St. Josemaria said that a priest is like a rug 22:40 - The four characteristics of a priestly soul, according to St. Josemaria Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

The Four Characteristics Of A Priestly Soul

Forgiving is no easy task: in fact, it may be the most difficult endeavor one can undertake. St. Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute;, the founder of Opus Dei, said, &ldquo;I didn&rsquo;t need to learn how to forgive, because God has taught me how to love.&rdquo; Still, even this saint struggled with the trying task of forgiving. This collection of anecdotes from his life explores his experiences in offering and accepting forgiveness.
Life as a priest in the midst of the violent Spanish Civil War offered St. Josemar&iacute;a countless opportunities to practice forgiveness. Owing to an attitude of prayer, mortification, and total confidence in God, he was as immediate and resolute in forgiving in dramatic situations as he was in the ordinary circumstances of everyday life. He knew when a situation necessitated silence, and was always prompt in offering an apology when he found himself in the wrong. Readers will find themselves equally amazed and humbled by the gentle charity that contributed to Josemar&iacute;a&rsquo;s sainthood.
In addition to anecdotes from St. Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute;'s life, this powerful introduction to forgiveness includes a biography of St. Josemar&iacute;a, an explanation of the message of Opus Dei, excerpts from Pope John Paul II at the canonization of St. Josemar&iacute;a and Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger (later Pope Benedict XVI) at the beatification of Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute;, as well as resources for further information in print and online.&nbsp; &nbsp;

A Man Who Knew How to Forgive (audiobook)

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ipray-fourth-sunday-of-advent'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

She Will Bear a Son | iPray with the Gospel (The Fourth Sunday of Advent)

Senior Scholar at Boston University’s Center for Character and Social Responsibility, Karen Bohlin talks with us about the importance of introducing good literature to children and how to avoid becoming reluctant readers. She talks about the importance of going deep into the meaning and messages found in great literature, and how that illuminates the intricacies of life.

Ep. 2 Literature & Its Role in a Child's Life

A meditation by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Lyncroft Centre, Toronto, on the occasion of the exaltation of the Holy Cross, September 14, 2024.
The cross is the instrument on which the Lord was executed. It was a Roman instrument of torture, state-sponsored terrorism. Jesus gave an explanation in mysterious words. Enigmatic, somewhat cryptic, evoking an image, a movement, a veiled, almost dream-like quality. 
John 3, 13-17: Jesus said to Nicodemus: ‘No one has gone up to heaven except the one who has come down from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.’
What does this mean for those who look upon the cross?
Music: &#39;Life In Motion&#39; by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com
Thumbnail: Apse mosaic from San Clemente Romano, Rome.

The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Cedarcrest Conference centre north of Toronto, on May 21, 2024.
We read in the prayer of consecration to the Holy Spirit, there was a description of the nature of the Paraclete himself, the consoler, the spirit of truth. It talks about the gifts he leaves in us, and then all the fruits that are left behind, that are noticeable in a person who has truly been touched by the Holy Spirit: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, longanimity, meekness, faith, modesty, continence, and chastity.
He leaves his mark, his stamp on us. But the mark he leaves in us, is not his own. He leaves the embossed mark of Christ in everything we do. In what we say and what we do. Does this show?
Music: Original music by Michael Lee of Toronto.
Thumbnail: Rembrandt, The Hundred Guilder Print, 1647, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam