Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation to a group of young men at Ernescliff College in Toronto, on December 9, 2023. The Gospel of Mark 10, 17-31 tells the account of the young man who presented himself to Jesus and asked what he must do to obtain eternal life. A challenging exchange ensued. To dig into this, we must have a deep understanding of what a vocation is. Here&#39;s one definition: &quot;The vocation is the providential thought of the Creator for each creature, it is his idea-plan, like a dream found in God&#39;s heart, because the creature is found in his heart. God the Father wants this to be different and specific for each living person.&quot;
Music: Komm, süsser Tod, BWV 478, Guitar arrangement by Bert Alink.
Thumbnail: Cyprien Tanguay (1819-1902) portrait by Antoine Plamondon, painted c. 1832, Quebec, Canada.

The Vocation to Opus Dei

When Job sees God he accepts God&apos;s plan and submits to his judgment.  In this life, our vision of God is always indirect and partial.  &quot;We see through a mirror dimly.&quot; It takes thus faith to trust in God&apos;s plan and his providence especially when things are difficult or go against us.  In this life, faith in God&apos;s promises substitutes for sight especially in moments when it is hard for us to understand God&apos;s ways. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Walking by Faith

Jesús empieza su predicación hablando de la cercanía del Reino, y termina siendo llamado rey por Pilato, por los soldados romanos y por el buen ladrón. Jesús nos envía a expandir su Reino, a trabajar en su viña. El horizonte de nuestro apostolado no tiene límites: todos los hombres de todos los tiempos. San Josemaría nos desea la chifladura divina del celo por las almas.

2024-11-22 Esparce la semilla del Reino

Santa Teresa, la doctora de la oración, fue iluminada para percibir la relación de amor y cercanía con Jesús en la oración. La historia de su vida fue la historia de su oración, como debería ser también la nuestra. La historia de nuestra vida no será sino la historia de nuestra amistad con Jesucristo. La oración es un combate entre Dios y cada uno de nosotros, como el combate entre Jacob y Dios. En allá debemos estar dispuestos a ser vencidos en toda la línea.

2025-08-24 Historia de oración

We are redeemed by an act of love: specifically by Jesus&apos; willingness to suffer on our behalf. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Lent - Day 39 Good Friday

La primera predicación de Jesús invita a hacer penitencia porque está cerca el reino de los cielos. Esa invitación podemos entenderla tanto en lo referente a la virtud de la penitencia como a las obras de penitencia. La virtud es el dolor del alma por los pecados cometidos, la contrición, el reconocimiento de que somos pecadores. Los actos de penitencia no solo nos purifican, sino que también son remedios aplicables a las necesidades de otros por la comunión de los santos.

2026-01-21 Virtud de la penitencia, actos de penitencia.

Doug begins the novena to Mary, Mother of Fairest love. He also shares how to build a strong foundation of communication in your marriage. &nbsp; Communication techniques <ol> <li>Active listening</li> <li>Mindful messaging</li> <li>Taking turns</li> <li>Use &ldquo;I&rdquo; statements</li> </ol>

Building a Foundation of Communication

Todos los matices de los amores de la tierra están reunidos en el amor de Jesús. Además, ese amor tiene el aroma de la eternidad, que da a los amores permanencia y eternidad. ¿Creo en ese amor? Quizá pueda amar muchísimo a un gran santo, pero ¿a mí? Si estoy lleno de miserias. Démosle ese voto de confianza: que creamos en su amor. Es la acción santificadora del Espíritu de amor que me ha sido donado.

2025-06-20 Sé que Jesús me ama

Los sábados queremos tratar a María con un cariño especial. La devoción a Ella es la más dulce y consoladora. Uno de los Prefacios de las Misas de la Santísima Virgen dice: “Es la Madre compasiva, cuida de los discípulos de su Hijo”. Compasiva, significa que padece-con. María padece, por ejemplo, nuestra pena de la frialdad interior y busca resolverla. Es una Madre llena de ternura que asiste solícita a todo aquel que la invoca.

2025-12-06 Sábados de María

Are you or your spouse struggling with pornography? Is pornography destroying your marriage? Today, Dann Aungst joins Doug discussing how pornography use harms marriages. They share how the increase in couples viewing pornography together leads to higher divorce rates and offer concrete solutions to overcome the scourge of pornography. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Ron - With all the porn around, why does anyone pay for it? Where does the money for this industry come from? (24:12)</li> <li>Doug helped my son before law school! My son graduated with honors. I want to give people hope. (28:21)</li> <li>Larry - I started a group where high school kids are helping teach other high school kids. How do I teach about this issue without sounding too preachy? (38:35)</li> <li>Rocco - Theology of the body is the best. (45:57)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Road to Purity <a href="https://roadtopurity.com/">https://roadtopurity.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>

Freedom from Pornography

Jesus wants his joy to be in us and our joy to be full.  Sharing the joy of Jesus means sharing in his victory over sin and death on the cross.  Jesus receives a crown of glory and joy in heaven for his triumph.  We too will be crowned victors if we persevere joyfully in the Spiritual Olympics of life. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Spiritual Olympics

Al asomarnos, en el Magníficat, al corazón de María, descubrimos su gozo en Dios, su salvador. La cercanía amorosa de Dios es fuente inagotable de alegría, aun en medio de las penas. Dios se alegra con nuestra alegría. Procuremos darle más motivos de alegría alegrándonos ante las cosas pequeñas que nos depara la vida.

2025-01-28 Amor y alegría

Jesús es luz, y con su luz llamó a los Magos a través de la estrella. El libro del Apocalipsis llama a Jesús “lucero de la mañana”: sigamos esa señalización única, intentando que nuestra vida se colme con su Presencia. El camino es largo y azaroso, pero confiemos: si alguna vez perdemos el rumbo, Él se conmoverá con nuestro deseo y volverá a manifestársenos muy pronto.

2025-01-04 Sigue la estrella de Jesús

Doug explores how lying affects marriages, how to respond, and ways to foster honesty. Listeners share personal experiences, including insights from a recovered liar and the impact of dementia on a spouse&rsquo;s truthfulness. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Junior &ndash; I am a reformed liar and want to share my perspective. Confession helped me realize you don&rsquo;t have to lie. (34:20)</li> <li>Paulette &ndash; My husband died from dementia and began lying years ago when he couldn&rsquo;t explain events. I now see his lying as a symptom of the disease. (44:08)</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;

Restoring Honesty in Marriage

La Resurrección de Jesús no solo lo afecta a Él, sino también a nosotros. Nos revela qué es el hombre, cuál es el designio de Dios para imitar a su Hijo no solo en esta vida, sino también en la futura. Viviremos con Aquel que ha resucitado, gozando también nuestra propia realidad de resucitados.

2025-04-20 Resucitados con Cristo

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

The holiday season is here, and with it comes stress and anxiety. Today on Marriage Unhindered, Dr. Johann D&rsquo;Souza joins Doug to discuss the concept of Optimal Work and how it can reduce anxiety in your life. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Deedee - If you lack prudence, do you end up with depression or anxiety? (24:05)</li> <li>Zizi - How do I let God take care of all my worries so I don't worry and stay up all night? (26:47)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Values First Therapy <a href="https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.com/">https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.com/</a> &nbsp;

Reducing anxiety during the holidays

Las unciones que hemos recibido en los sacramentos suponen una consagración, es decir, una afirmación de pertenecer a Dios que es exclusiva: hacer algo sagrado. Lo contrario sería la desacralización e incluso el sacrilegio. Afirmamos nuestro deseo de pertenecer al Sagrado Corazón del Señor, haciendo la ofrenda de nuestra vida.

2025-06-23 Consagrarse al Corazón de Jesús

#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.

26-12-25 Why St. Stephen Today (JG)

Take a moment before the Thanksgiving holiday to reflect with Fr. Luke Mata on the power of gratitude! Cultivating gratitude, especially during the holiday season, helps open our hearts to the grace and love that Our Lord wants to bestow upon us.We are so grateful for your continued prayers and support! Mary, Mother of Fairest Love, pray for us!

Thanksgiving Reflection from Fr. Luke Mata

The Christian&apos;s call to holiness is a mysterious reality.  How can we be holy when holiness is exclusive to God and underlines his transcendent otherness?  How can we be perfect who are obviously sinful and weak?  Only by possessing and being possessed by Christ is holiness possible for us.  Sanctity is to have him live in us through the sacraments, our prayer life, and our gradual imitation of his life and dispositions.   <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Holiness on Loan

En la primera lectura de la Misa de hoy, el profeta Daniel recoge la oración de Azarías, uno de los jóvenes a las órdenes de Nabucodonosor. Azarías suplica misericordia a Dios, ante el peligro de perder la vida: “Acepta nuestro corazón adolorido y nuestro espíritu humillado”, reza. En Cuaresma ofrezcamos un corazón deseoso de conversión, de sucesivas conversiones, sin permitir que el tiempo pase sin más.

2024-03-05 Martes de la tercera semana de Cuaresma: Conversión

Doug unpacks the difference between love and emotional connection. He shares what love is and how to reignite the emotional connection in your marriage through asking open ended questions, showing appreciation, and making a bids for connection. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Suzie - How do I respond to a husband who says 'I'm a guy and I don&rsquo;t talk about that', and he shuts down. What do I say to him? (40:57)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Building a strong emotional connection <ol> <li>Ask open-ended questions</li> <li>Show appreciation</li> <li>Make bids for connection</li> </ol> &nbsp; Recipe for success <ol> <li>Know your spouse&rsquo;s inner world</li> <li>Ask your spouse questions inviting them to be vulnerable</li> <li>Notice the positive and let your spouse know</li> <li>Look at your spouse when they make a bid for connection</li> <li>Make and respond to lots of bids for connection</li> </ol>

Love & Emotional Connection

En las inmediaciones de la Cuaresma, dispongamos nuestra alma. Vamos a cambiar de etapa, a vivir un tiempo de gracias nuevas, distintas. Y es preciso abrirnos, por la fe, a la seguridad de la eficacia que vendrá con ella. Comencemos a vivir más recogidamente, más desprendidos, con más austeridad. “El Señor, con los brazos abiertos, te pide una constante limosna de amor”, decía san Josemaría. Limosna de compañía, limosna de penitencia, limosna de preocupación por los demás.

2024-02-13 Prepara tu espíritu para la Cuaresma

¿Cómo querría Jesús que fuésemos? Él nos contestaría: quisiera que fueras misericordioso, manso y humilde, puro de corazón, que lloraras con las lágrimas salvadoras, que fueras pobre de espíritu… es decir, que te vieras en el espejo de las bienaventuranzas. Pensemos en la que habla de los que lloran: hay una tristeza buena, que procede del dolor de nuestros pecados y de la presencia de la cruz en nuestras vidas.

2024-07-07 Retrato de un cristiano

God is not indifferent to our suffering. He becomes one of us to share in it, and he leads us as a shepherd leads his flock. To be led from the death of sin into life requires us to know Our Lord's life very well, by reading the Gospel daily, and by living a life of prayer and sacrifice.
A meditation by Father Timothy Uhen.

Following the Good Shepherd

30-01-26 Toasters, Wheatfields, and Time (JB)

Es frecuente que en las biografías de los santos se resalte el impacto de alguna frase de la Escritura que fue para ellos determinante. El 7 de julio de 1931, san Josemaría recibe la iluminación sobre la frase de Jesús: “Cuando Yo sea levantado sobre la tierra, atraeré todo hacia Mí” (Jn 12, 32). Le supuso una luz para profundizar en el mensaje del Opus Dei: el Crucificado habría de ser puesto en la cumbre de las actividades humanas.

2025-01-27 Atraeré todo hacia Mí

Author and COO of the National Eucharistic Congress, Joel Stepanek, shares his insights on humility - a virtue we rarely talk about. Joel provides some helpful tips for growing in humility as a parent and teaching the virtue to our children.His book, Chasing Humility, can be found at: <a href="https://joelstepanek.com/books/chasing-humility/">https://joelstepanek.com/books/chasing-humility/</a>

Ep. 24 Chasing Humility with Joel Stepanek

15-07-26 When Will I Understand? (KDS)

Do the problems in your marriage seem insurmountable? Today, Doug continues his discussion on discouragement and despair in marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Alexander - How do I convince my wife to become Catholic? (3:05)</li> <li>Colby - I want to recommend that Alexander looks into the Byzantine rite of the Catholic Church. (16:47)</li> <li>David - What do you do if you were raised in an all-male family and environment but you need to relate to your wife? (19:42)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://catholictherapists.com/">https://catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Psychotherapy <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/</a>

Avoid the Trap of Discouragement (Part 2)

This meditation was preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Roseaire Conference Center in Delray Beach, Florida, on September 3, 2025. At the beginning of this annual course, we experience a feeling of appreciation, a sense of indebtedness and gratitude because God has wanted us here for something good. He has wanted something from my life. He wants all my heart, all my soul, all my mind.Like Gregory the Great (+603), today&#39;s memorial, we want to come out of this truly revamped and renewed. Give thanks because we will be filled with a new oil change, high standard oil, a time to reinvigorate our strength, time to rest, time to live fraternity and to be with Our Lord. Music: Michael Lee of Toronto.

Time for an Oil Change

We can make our own the petition of the apostles: "Lord, teach us how to pray." We need to renew our prayer life, because prayer is the true basis of conversion. Meditation by Father Henry Bocala.

Lord, Teach Us to Pray

On the feast of the Guardian Angels, Fr James Hurley meditates on devotion to angels.

30. Devotion to Angels

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the life and mission of St. Josemaria Escriva, describing him as an “envelope with terrific content,” a reference to his profound spiritual legacy. Fr. Peter focuses especially on St. Josemaria’s love for the Eucharist and how he transmitted that love to others. Listen now to reflect on:<ul><li>How St. Josemaria centered his life on the Eucharist, calling it the source of strength for Christian life and apostolate.</li><li>Why the laity, living in the middle of the world, are uniquely called to spread the Gospel.</li><li>The transformative power of ordinary life when lived in friendship with Christ and deep Eucharistic devotion.</li><li>How personal holiness doesn’t require extraordinary gifts but faithfulness in daily duties, love for the Mass, and love for others.</li><li>The legacy of St. Josemaria, especially as the “saint of the ordinary,” who reminds us that every Christian is called to be a saint where they are planted.</li></ul>Fr. Peter also shares personal anecdotes St. Josemaria&apos;s humility and fatherly love, offering a holy example and encouragement for us to also be witnesses of joy and humility in the world. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/St.-Josemaria-Escriva-An-Envelope-with-Terrific-Content-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/an-envelope-with-terrific-content/'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

St. Josemaria Escriva: An Envelope with Terrific Content

28-11-24 A prayer from Jerusalem (AB)

Podemos imaginar que esta semana, que va desde la Asunción de María a su Coronación, el Cielo está ocupado en los preparativos de tan magno acontecimiento. Las miríadas de ángeles y de santos se preparan para coronarla, y con ellos también nosotros. Reina de mi trabajo, de mi descanso, de mi apostolado, de mi penitencia, de mi cansancio, de mi tiempo, de mi eternidad...

2025-08-17 Corona a tu Reina

This week, we spoke with Michael Pakaluk to discuss the extraordinary life of his late wife, Ruth Pakaluk, whose cause for canonization is currently moving forward in the Church.We discuss Michael and Ruth’s journey from atheism at Harvard to a life of deep Catholic faith, highlighting how they lived out the beauty of sacrificial love through seven children and a terminal cancer diagnosis. Michael offers a rare, husband’s-eye view of what heroic virtue looks like in the middle of a busy home and provides profound advice for couples navigating their own seasons of crisis or illness.To learn more about Ruth Pakaluk’s life and the progress of her cause for sainthood, visit the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ruthpakaluk.com/">official website for her cause </a>or read Michael's compilation of her letters, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://ignatius.com/authors/michael-pakaluk/">"The Appalling Strangeness of the Mercy of God"</a>. Also, be sure to check out his book, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/preorder-the-company-we-keep-true-friendship-and-why-it-matters?_pos=1&amp;_sid=6a21e29ea&amp;_ss=r">"The Company We Keep: True Friendship and Why it Matters"</a>, through Scepter Publishers.

A Couple's Path to Holiness: A Conversation with Michael Pakaluk

Let us enter into Holy Week and Easter with openness to the love of God. See the love that Christ has shown us, with his Passion, Death and
Resurrection. Through prayer, we can allow the the Risen Christ to speak to us. A meditation by Father Timothy Uhen.

Prayer: Encountering Christ in Holy Week

20-03-25 Believing is Seeing (RS)

The Catechism of the Catholic Church describes “the heart” as our inner center, the place of truth and encounter, the place where we choose life or death. Do we fill our hearts with God? Considering the love of Jesus for us should be a spur for us to respond with a complete and total love for God. Create in me a clean heart, oh God. A meditation by Father John Agnew.

Lord, Purify My Heart

La memoria litúrgica de santa María Goretti, mártir de la pureza, nos invita a revisar la pureza de nuestro corazón. Nada manchado puede entrar en la presencia del Dios tres veces santo, por lo que hemos de vigilar hasta en los mínimos detalles en los que aparezca alguna contaminación de nuestro interior. Pensemos especialmente en la rectitud de intención con la que hacemos nuestras tareas.

2026-07-06 Santa María Goretti: pureza de corazón

28-05-26 Ut Videam (RS)

In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan underscores the perennial importance of persevering in our ascetical or interior struggle for &quot;going higher and higher, doing whatever it takes to aim high, and to reach Heaven.&quot; We know that the Christian life is not compatible with self-satisfied mediocrity, love of comfort, and lukewarmness. We need great moral strength to reach Heaven and that means a daily perseverance towards sanctity. Therefore, as Msgr. Dolan explains, &quot;to go higher and to get there requires a &apos;struggle&apos; or &apos;warfare&apos;... against the enemies of our sanctity, which include pride, laziness, love of comfort, sensuality, and a whole host of others.&quot; With practical advice and anecdotes from the life of St. Josemaria, Msgr. Dolan encourages us to fight our daily interior battles through which the discipline of a plan of work, good use of time, and small sacrifices will keep us exercising control over our appetites and keep us from falling into dissipation and lukewarmness. As you end this time of prayer, looking ahead into the new season and keeping your eyes on Heaven, what struggles do you want to conquer with a positive, cheerful, constant, and energetic spirit? <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/The-Struggle-for-Heaven-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

The Struggle for Heaven

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Kintore College, Toronto on the Feast of Saint Francis de Sales, and the memorial of Our Lady of Peace, the advocation for the Prelatic Church of Opus Dei in Rome. This is where St. Josemaria rests, beneath the main altar. Peace can be sewn in our soul through ongoing formation. St. Francis de Sales excelled at this in a time of upheaval in Europe, during the 16th and 17th century.
Music: Adrift among the infinite stars by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com
Thumbnail: Portait Francis de Sales, by Attilio Palombi, 1898, Chiesa del Sacro Cuore di Gesu, Rome.

St. Francis de Sales and How to Transmit True Peace

In this week’s podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shows how the Apostles were changed after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, and how we too can be docile to the promptings of the Spirit. What you’ll hear: - How the Church was truly universal at the very beginning - Why the Acts of the Apostles is sometimes referred to as the “Gospel of the Holy Spirit” - How the Apostles were different after receiving the Holy Spirit at Pentecost - The gifts of the Holy Spirit that the Apostles received at Pentecost - The Holy Spirit’s central role in evangelization - Why St. Josemaria referred to the Holy Spirit as “the Great Unknown” - How we can get to know the Holy Spirit THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

Pentecost Sunday 2015

In this episode of the Fairest Love podcast, we chat with professional organizer Claire Pelletier, who shares her expert advice on creating functional and beautiful spaces for families.Claire opens up about her journey into professional organizing, her unique client-focused approach, and practical tips for tackling clutter in family homes. She emphasizes the value of involving kids in the organizing process, offers solutions to common challenges, and reveals her favorite tools and products for staying organized. You can follow Claire on social media @simplifywithclaire and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" class="c-link" href="https://www.simplifywithclaire.com/">visit her website</a> to learn about her services and contact information!

S5 Ep. 3 - Simplify Your Space: Tips for Organizing with Claire Pelletier

22-06-24 God’s First (RS)

05-09-26 Breaking rules on the sabbath (JB)

Emily Jaminet joins Doug discussing the importance of rooting your marriage in the Sacred Heart. &nbsp; &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Emily Jaminet <a href="https://www.emilyjaminet.com/">https://www.emilyjaminet.com/</a> &nbsp; A Marriage Rooted in the Sacred Heart: Grace, Healing, and Hope <a href="https://www.emilyjaminet.com/a-marriage-rooted-in-the-sacred-heart-grace-healing-and-hope/">https://www.emilyjaminet.com/a-marriage-rooted-in-the-sacred-heart-grace-healing-and-hope/</a>

Keeping Jesus at the Center

04-07-26 Later They Will Fast (EN)

Are you worried that you have an unhappy child? Are you curious how to help a child who is unhappy? Today, Monica Hinderer joins Doug discussing how to raise happy children. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Greg - I disagree a little. It doesn't seem like you had a hard enough stance on when a child says he's gay. (37:20)</li> <li>Marissa - I have two sons in their twenties and they are moving back home. What rules should we have? I fear conflict with them. (40:20)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Raising Happy Children

Doug continues his discussion on childhood attachment wounds and how they can negatively impact your marriage. Today, he looks at anxious and disorganized attachment strategies. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>John - My wife doesn't like talking about difficult topics and she just wants me to listen but I want to fix. its effecting our communication. (24:20)</li> <li>Angel - My fianc&eacute; was an orphan raised by his uncle and was very spoiled. He has a very entitled attitude. What should I do? (26:31)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Impact of Attachment Styles (Part 1) <a href="https://relevantradio.com/2026/06/impact-of-attachment-styles/">https://relevantradio.com/2026/06/impact-of-attachment-styles/</a> &nbsp; Emotionally Focused Therapy <a href="https://iceeft.com/">https://iceeft.com/</a> &nbsp; &nbsp; Signs of an anxious attachment style <ol> <li>Tendency to be very clingy</li> <li>Highly sensitive to criticism</li> <li>Need for approval from others</li> <li>Tendency to be very jealous</li> <li>Hard time being alone</li> <li>Tendency for having low self esteem</li> <li>Feel unworthy of love</li> <li>Intense fear of rejection</li> </ol> &nbsp; Signs of a disorganized attachment style <ol> <li>Fear of rejection</li> <li>Difficulty regulating emotions</li> <li>Contradictory behavior</li> <li>High level of anxiety</li> <li>Substance abuse and self-harm</li> <li>Unpredictable and confusing behavior in relationships</li> <li>Perceive spouses to be unpredictable</li> </ol>

Impact of Attachment Styles (Part 2)

04-10-24 Poor St Francis (GJ)

Dr. Johann D&rsquo;Souza joins Doug discussing how to parent an anxious child. He includes common differences between mom's approach, dad's approach and why they are both wrong. Dr. D&rsquo;Souza shares resources to help parents with children struggling with anxiety and speaks to the importance of avoiding parental accommodations, showing empathy, and restoring confidence. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Virginia - I have a 14-year-old daughter and she washes her hands obsessively. What can I do to help her?</li> <li>Richard - Are there supplements that can help with OCD?</li> <li>Teresa - Does anxiety lead to paranoia?</li> <li>Bonnie - My daughter has OCD, she's 27 and lives at home. With COVID, it seemed to get worse, and it's at a point that it's taking over her life. What should I do?</li> <li>Heidi - My granddaughter only eats white chicken, white rice and sourdough bread. She seems very picky. What should I do?</li> <li>Kathy &ndash; I have been very anxious since WWII. Do you think it has anything to do with the war?</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Psychotherapy <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/</a> &nbsp; The Anxious Generation <a href="https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/">https://www.anxiousgeneration.com/</a> &nbsp; Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Free-Child-Anxiety-Scientifically/dp/0190883529?tag=googhydr-20&amp;source=dsa&amp;hvcampaign=books&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAwOe8BhCCARIsAGKeD56nRS1r173iZxXh9zpdts8LHytzMt73zpO-8QolawCLJ-QLbpMyVPsaAjeuEALw_wcB">https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Free-Child-Anxiety-Scientifically/dp/0190883529?tag=googhydr-20&amp;source=dsa&amp;hvcampaign=books&amp;gclid=Cj0KCQiAwOe8BhCCARIsAGKeD56nRS1r173iZxXh9zpdts8LHytzMt73zpO-8QolawCLJ-QLbpMyVPsaAjeuEALw_wcB</a>

Helping children with anxiety and OCD

Jesus doesn&apos;t just have compassion on others, he discovers motives for his compassion.  Understanding others is an essential ingredient in loving them.  This takes humility, patience, and the rejection of an evil, critical spirit.

"Compassion on the Crowd": Charity and Understanding

Doug shares a case study from Impossible Marriages Redeemed by Leila Miller. What do you do when you have a toxic family member influencing the family? In what cases is separation helpful? Doug Answers these questions and more. Plus: The Friday afternoon rant!

Things a Therapist Wants You to Know

2024-03-26 Martes Santo: llenarse de Jesús

Los misterios de luz del Santo Rosario nos iluminan. El 4º, la Transfiguración, es el “icono de la contemplación cristiana”, en frase de san Juan Pablo II. Subir a un monte alto, ascender sobre la horizontalidad de la materia, dejar abajo lo terreno y fijar los ojos en el Rostro de Cristo, para descubrir su misterio. Ese acto de fe nos conduce al amor del Señor, única razón de nuestra vida.

2025-03-16 Enamorarse es la clave

“Es preciso pasar por muchas tribulaciones para entrar en el reino de los cielos”, dijo san Pablo a los recién convertidos (Hechos 14, 22). No nos extrañemos, por tanto, que eso se verifique en nuestra vida. Las tribulaciones, la penitencia, la mortificación valen por el amor con que se acompañen. El camino de la resurrección pasa por la pasión y la cruz.

2025-02-10 Muchas tribulaciones

Preceding the account of the washing of the feet, St. John says: John introduces this gesture. It is not present in the other synoptics: “Now before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.” (Jn 13:1).
He loved them to the end. We should reflect on the meaning of such a phrase, whether in my life, in your marriage, it can be said I have loved, and served to the end of my abilities, or 80% or 50%, or if I have given a lot but then seek out compensations in giving myself extra comforts or other forms of compensation. Or maybe it’s 90% at work, but only the leftover at home.
This is a meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Ernescliff College at a recollection on April 12, 2023.
Thumbnail: Christ Washing the Feet of the Apostles by Meister des Hausbuches, 1475 (Gemäldegalerie, Berlin).
Music: Ernesto Nazareth, Confidências (played by Bert Alink) Museopen.org.
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos
www.ernescliff.ca
www.opusdei.ca

He Loved them to the End

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

Originally published 12/21/2020.  We can join Mary and Joseph on their journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem.  The divine adventure that they were on was filled with trust in God, which counteracted their natural concerns and fears.  The silent presence of Jesus within his Mother&apos;s womb was a source of wonder, love, and prayer for Mary and Joseph.  Jesus&apos;s silent presence in Mary and his silent sleep in the manger has a profound meaning for times of spiritual dryness.

Rebroadcast: On the Way to Bethlehem

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

In the Gospel of the 23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, Jesus takes the deaf man aside, away from the crowd. By the finger of God a real connection is made, and he can now hear the Word of God. It is by the finger of God that Jesus will write something in our hearts during prayer. This meditation was preached on September 8, 2024 at Ernescliff College in Toronto.
Music: Original music by Michael Lee.
Thumbnail: Orans figure from the Catacomb of Priscilla in Rome.

Establishing a Good Connection in our Prayer

#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.

12-09-25 Am I better than everyone else (MC)

As we commemorate the souls of all the faithful departed this November, Fr. Leo Austin reflects on the Christian meaning of death not as an end but as the great passage into eternal life with God. This meditation helps us face our mortality with peace and gratitude, trusting in Christ’s promise: “I will come back to take you to myself.”  Listen now to reflect on:  • The Christian meaning of death as a passage, not an end.  • The mercy of God that awaits every soul.  • The companionship of the angels and saints at the hour of death.  • The peace that comes from praying for the departed.  • The hope of eternal reunion in the presence of Christ. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/pathway-to-heaven/'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/podcast-to-jesus-through-mary-2'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

The Pathway to Heaven

Entre los doce apóstoles había de todo: pescadores, zelotes, un publicano: Mateo. A la primera invitación del Señor, lo sigue y le ofrece un banquete en su casa. Jesús acepta, corriendo el riesgo de las críticas al comer en casa de un publicano y pecador. El Señor aceptará también las invitaciones que le hagamos a nuestra casa interior, pues Él anhela esa recepción. Mantengamos una oración continua, sabiendo que la oración depende del amor.

2026-09-21 Mateo abre a Jesús su casa

&quot;He is not here, for he has risen, as he said he would” (Mt 28:5-6). That is the wonderful news that we celebrate today, that Christ is risen. And that is a reason too for a new joy. 
As the news of the resurrection spreads we contemplate the altogether special appearance of Jesus to Mary his mother and also his appearance to the holy women. A meditation by Fr Tom Dowd.

11. Easter Sunday

In ómnibus gratias agite, recomienda san Pablo. Si ya en la Antigua Ley es muy frecuente la actitud de alabar y bendecir, incluso de exultar con Dios, cuánto más luego de la Redención. Hagamos recuento de los bienes de naturaleza y gracia que Dios nos ha dado de manera completamente gratuita. Acabaremos convenciéndonos de la necesidad de llevar una vida de acción de gracias.

2024-10-30 En todo dar gracias a Dios

Doug discusses an email from a woman concerned that her husband works excessively and is pressuring her to take on full-time work as well. She worries this dynamic is harming their marriage and family life. Doug emphasizes the importance of being present for one&rsquo;s spouse and children and making family a top priority. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Josephina - My husband and I are one of the couples who work a lot. I am comparing myself to the lady from the email but at the same time I am also a workaholic sometimes. (19:38)</li> <li>Matt - I work 12-15 hours a day and I am in a courtship right now. I find that if you really love them that sacrifice shouldn&rsquo;t take that much to make it happen. I want to also say that waiting till marriage is so worth it. (23:39)</li> <li>Richard - My son wants to get married and the issue we come across is his girlfriend is Catholic but she is not practicing. (28:00)</li> <li>Fernando - At what point is doing everything for her happiness not ok if I start suffering? (38:57)</li> <li>Rex - I worked in oil and I was a workaholic. You are touching on a lot of issues I went through. If I could go back, I would spend more time with the family. (45:00)</li> </ul>

Prioritizing Family Over Career

05-01-2024 Waxless (DOH)

25-10.-25 Reframe Sniffing and Repentance (EN)

En Pentecostés, el Espíritu Santo se comunica en forma de lenguas de fuego. Imagen muy expresiva, pues el fuego es resplandeciente y, por eso, el primer fruto del Espíritu de Dios es precisamente, un fuego de Amor. “Hazlo todo por Amor”, porque entonces serás movido por el Espíritu Santo. No como emoción pasajera, sino como fuego de permanencia, quemando lo más profundo de nuestro ser. Los antiguos pensaban que el fuego era una cosa divina y, si lo entendemos como el Espíritu Santo, es, efectivamente, divino.

2025-06-03 Fuego de Amor

En la batalla contra los amalecitas la oración de Moisés fue decisiva para el triunfo. Dios hace ver que cuenta con nuestras súplicas para el cumplimiento de sus planes. “Nos da la participación en la causalidad”, dice Pascal. En las seis apariciones de Fátima, le Virgen pide a los videntes que recen el Rosario. Aumentemos la eficacia de nuestra vida empleando esta “arma poderosa”.

2025-05-21 Pedir con el Rosario

El pecado original nos obnubila para las cosas de la fe. Por eso Dios nos dio a María, para tener un inmediato punto de referencia para nuestro actuar. Esto vale para todos, pero especialmente para las madres y esposas. María nos habla de la plenitud de gracia, es decir, de una vida llena de Dios. Eso implica que la mamá está llamada a hacer realidad esa prioridad de Dios en la familia.

2025-10-26 María y las madres

In this podcast, Fr. Eric Nicolai helps us to reflect on the distinction between what it means to be productive/successful in life and what it means to be fruitful. Some of us might be productive, but we are called to bear fruit, which frees us from the danger of thinking that our life is useless. Fr. Eric explains, &quot;God said to the first man and to the first woman, when He blessed them, Adam and Eve, to be fruitful and multiply, fill the Earth and govern it. God directs us to be fruitful, but we interpret this often to be productive.&quot; To be fruitful requires authentic humility and transparency in our life. It requires docility to the promptings of the Holy Spirit who produces in us the gifts of love, joy, peace, and understanding. As Our Lord promised, the gifts of the Spirit lead us to a fruitful life: to patience, kindness, goodness, self-control, and gentleness. In this way, we are able to multiply the good that our lives, our undertakings, and our work would have for all souls. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Productivity-vs-Fruitfulness.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href=' https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/productivity-vs-fruitfulness/'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

Productivity vs. Fruitfulness

San Pablo nos habla constantemente de la presencia de Jesús en nuestra vida. Pero no como una presencia meramente extrínseca, sino que “nuestra vida está escondida con Cristo en Dios”. Y es que si estamos escondidos en Cristo es porque estamos unidos a Él, que vino a traernos su vida en abundancia. La unión con Cristo supera toda unidad que alcancemos a representar con cualquier símbolo. Cristo es más yo que yo mismo.

2026-06-07 Cristo se forma en nosotros

24-09-24 Not on Talent Alone (MC)

Gratitude is a very important Christian disposition.  God appreciates gratitude, as we all do.  One of the four basic acts of prayer, gratitude should be a constant state of mind and heart.  In addition to pleasing God, it also brings the soul joy and peace.

"Say 'Thank You!'": Reflections on Gratitude

In the home of Bethany, Jesus was a true friend of Martha, Mary and Lazarus. There, in Bethany, Jesus loved and was loved. And when Lazarus died, Scripture reports, “Jesus wept.” Let us reflect on the meaning of the friendship lived by Jesus, and try to be good friends ourselves.

Greater Love hath No Man than This

12-09-25 Am I better than everyone else? (MC)

Living Under Christ's Kingship

¿Cuál es la principal necesidad de la sociedad contemporánea, e incluso de la Iglesia? Sin duda que el Espíritu Santo venga a armonizar los mundos interiores de cada persona. De ese modo, el caos en el que todos estamos inmersos se convertirá en cosmos, en belleza, en cumplimiento del plan de Dios.

2025-10-28 El armonizador

Estamos invitados a re-conocer a Jesús. “Solo aquellos que tienen la sabiduría de Dios son los que lo reconocen”. Es verdad que nosotros lo conocemos, pero podemos re-conocerlo con una mayor cercanía, en la continuidad para tratarlo, en la confianza. “No os conforméis con un trato superficial; dejar que reaccione el corazón”, invitaba el beato Álvaro. ¿No podría ser más personal, más continuo, más hondo, mi trato con Jesús?

2025-01-14 Para amarlo hay que rozarlo

Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, reflects on the poverty spirit we should cultivate in order to make Jesus Christ the priority of our lives. Like the rich young man in the Gospel (Mk 10:17-22), Fr. Peter explains how Jesus Christ is also asking us now:- Do you believe that only I (God) can fill you?- Do you keep my (God’s) commandments?- Do you put me (God) first? Am I (Jesus Christ) your passion?“To follow Christ — that is the secret. We must accompany him so closely that we come to live with him, like the first Twelve did; so closely, that we become identified with him. Soon we will be able to say, provided we haven&apos;t put obstacles in the way of grace, that we have put on, have clothed ourselves with Our Lord Jesus Christ. Our Lord is then reflected in our behavior, as in a mirror” (St. Josemaria Escriva; Friends of God, no. 299). THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

Is Christ My Passion?

11-12-25 Love That Drives Us Forward (FD)

Jane VanHouten From Millions of Monicas joins Doug to discuss the national movement of mothers who come together and pray for their children. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Joni - I am a MOM leader in Philly and we met Doug on the pilgrimage. (10:21)</li> <li>Matt - I have a sister who drifted away and is protestant and is now nothing. What do I do? (19:07)</li> <li>Dorothy - 'Send a Philip' that&rsquo;s my simple prayer when I need something or someone to come along side me. (35:45)</li> <li>Peg - Testimony: We have MOM at our church and we love it. (37:40)</li> <li>Sharon - It is at my church and it&rsquo;s going well. Thank you so much. (41:48)</li> <li>Eileen - I want to encourage people to set these up! (45:50)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Millions of Monicas <a href="https://millionsofmonicas.com/">https://millionsofmonicas.com/</a>

Moms on a Mission to Pray

The Bible refers to the moral law as &quot;written on the heart.&quot;  In this class we discuss the principles of the natural law.    <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Class on Christian Ethics: The Natural Law

“Desde pequeño he comprendido el porqué de la Eucaristía”. ¿Qué comprendía el niño Josemaría sobre el Sacramento? Quizá que el amor busca las formas más radicales de unión, y eso es lo que se logra con la Eucaristía. Pidamos recibirla “con el fervor de los santos” más encendidos en el amor eucarístico.

2025-10-18 Con el fervor de los santos

A Marta le dice Jesús que su hermano Lázaro resucitará porque Él mismo es la resurrección. No dice que Él nos señala cómo resucitar, al modo de un prontuario de instrucciones, sino que en Sí mismo, en su Persona, es lo que nos resucita. “Haz que mi alma de Ti viva”, porque yo, de mí, no puedo nada.

2025-10-22 Yo soy la Resurrección

Evangelization came naturally to the first Christians.  Convinced of how much good Christ did for them, they were convincing in encouraging others to meet Christ for themselves.  A profound knowledge and appreciation of our own relationship with Jesus will also move us to share our faith with others spontaneously and naturally.  This sharing is the result of the depth of our prayer life and our genuine concern for the people in our life.  <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Like the First Christians: Convinced and Convincing

After experiencing the tragedy of her own miscarriage and finding herself uninformed after the doctor's visit that delivered the news, Held In Hope co-founder Amber Hasset decided to help other women experiencing the loss of miscarriage. Held in Hope creates miscarriage boxes full of helpful information and self-care items to support a woman through this moment.<a href="https://www.heldinhope.org">Held in Hope website</a>.<a href="https://www.instagram.com/held.in.hope/">Held in Hope on Instagram</a>.

Ep. 2 Supporting Women During A Miscarriage with the Held In Hope founders

La parábola de los sarmientos unidos a la vid es enormemente profunda. Nos habla de que la permanencia en Cristo es unificadora y vital. La comparación con las vides nos remite al vino, que sería convertido en la Sangre de Cristo (pudo Jesús haber comparado la unión con el olivo y su fruto, pero no nos remitiría a la Eucaristía). El prodigio nos lleva al prodigio de sabernos Cristo.

2024-08-08 Uno en Cristo en su Sangre

Avanzado ya el tiempo litúrgico del Adviento, nos preguntamos por el aprovechamiento de las gracias propias que trae consigo. Adviento es purificación, al modo del purgatorio que se precisa para entrar en la plenitud del Amor divino. Purificarnos del pecado y sus reliquias, pero también de adhesiones impuras. Tiempo de contrición y penitencia.