A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai to High School students in Beamsville, Ontario ,on February 2, 2025.
Today is the feast of the presentation. It is a feast of pour Lady, but really focused on Our Lord who is being presented by his parents in the temple. It was the law of Israel that each first born should be presented to the Lord, 40 days after his birth. They are complying with the Mosaic Law. It is his mission. He is presented, offered, given over, and his parents do so with faith, knowing his purpose more than anyone.
Music: Original track by Michael Lee, of Toronto.
Thumbnail, Peter Paul Rubens, Presentation in the Temple, sketch, 1632, Naala Nura, ground level, Grand Courts.

Let Your Servant Go in Peace

Coepit facere et docere, dicen el versículo 1 del primer capítulo de los Hechos de los Apóstoles. Jesús es, en primer lugar, el ejemplo, el modelo. Y después es maestro. Verlo y oírlo. Aprendamos a conocer mejor a Jesús encontrando los hechos, los gestos, las obras, en las que tendrán verificativo sus palabras.

2024-08-13 Empezó a hacer y a enseñar

Rondar la Misa, meditar sobre la Misa, nos ayudará a tener más luces sobre este misterio que nos rebasa. Es una actio Dei, algo sagrado. Tenemos ahí la perfecta adoración al Padre, antes que ninguna otra finalidad de la Misa. Le damos nuestra reverencia, nuestra adoración, y lo confesamos al final de la Plegaria Eucarística: “todo honor y toda gloria”. No se trata, por tanto, de una comunidad que se auto celebra, sino que se abre a la dimensión eterna.

2024-10-26 Participar en Misa adorando a Dios

Doug continues his talk on the four loves and dives into Agape - Unconditional love. He also takes listener calls on untruthful spouses, the sin of divorce, and second guessing a separation.

The Four Loves

La ciencia más alta: conocer a Jesucristo. Aprendamos también de sus actitudes, una de ellas, la de dirigirse hacia la Cruz. No nos extrañemos que la cruz esté también presente en nuestras vidas. Uniéndonos a Jesús es Él quien la acaba llevando: Él no ha venido a eliminar el sufrimiento, ni a explicarlo: “ha venido a llenarlo con su presencia”.

2025-03-26 Valorar la cruz

La comunión que se lleva a los enfermos se anuncia con el toque de la campanilla. Entonces la gente se apercibe, se arrodilla, y el enfermo se dispone. Hoy, víspera del Corpus Christi, queremos que no nos tome poco preparados esta gran Solemnidad. Es la Eucaristía lo que fundamenta nuestro ser y nuestra vida. Unirnos a las Procesiones de todo el mundo, para adorar y desagraviar.

2026-06-03 La campanilla que anuncia la Eucaristía

Como el domingo es el día del Señor, la Iglesia señala que la celebración de la Santa Misa ha de realizarse de modo más solemne. Busquemos participar en ella con toda calma, involucrándonos en cada uno signos, para darles el contenido profundo. Porque no se trata de rebajar el misterio a nuestra medida, sino de acceder a la altura del misterio.

2025-02-09 Desentrañar signos

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.

2024-07-06 María Gorett: pureza de corazón

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo shares a meditation inspired by the phrase, “an hour of study, for a modern apostle, is an hour of prayer” (St. Josemaria Escriva; The Way, no. 335). Approaching academic learning as a form of prayer is not a way of life designed solely for students. Rather, it is a way of life that all Christians should adopt as it helps us develop a stronger worldview. Fr. Javier discusses how to approach Scripture, the lives of the saints, and the writings of the Church Fathers as a form of prayer. He also explains how to overcome three common obstacles – lust, curiosity, and falsehood – that inhibit our desire to study. [ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Study-Prayer-Transcript.pdf'>Transcript</a> ] 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>

Study & Prayer (Rebroadcast)

Doug takes calls and listeners share stories of how they were affected by infidelity in their marriage. Doug discusses the importance prayer and forgiveness and how affection and intimacy in marriage should be freely given as an act of love in virtue of the marriage vows. &nbsp; listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Bonnie - I went through Retrouvaille couples counseling. I didn't care how many women my husband had been with. However, I did ask for a divorce.</li> <li>Mary - I am divorced. Can you explore the idea of a women being done with men. I've had some counseling and some ideas. We're not intended to be alone.&nbsp; I need help.</li> <li>Jane - Women who are married to sex addicts need support.</li> <li>Martha - I was the other woman. The conscience ate at me and I struggle to this day, but my husband and I did go through counseling and it helped immensely.</li> <li>Richard - I was told in counseling that being denied affection could be a form of infidelity. What do you think?&nbsp; I've been with same woman for 40 years and there has been no intimacy or affection for the last 20 years.</li> </ul> Resources: Sexaholics Anonymous <a href="https://www.sa.org/">https://www.sa.org/</a> &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>

The trouble with infidelity

“Dame, hijo mío tu corazón”, dice el oráculo del libro de los Proverbios. El corazón es la fuente de los pensamientos, de los sentimientos, de las acciones. Al corazón debo atender para que nada manchado se asiente en él: pureza de intenciones, pureza de pensamientos, pureza de afectos. Solo los de corazón puro ven a Dios.

2026-01-23 Corazones puros

#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.

23-10-24 Doing or undoing (EA)

October, a month dedicated to the rosary, is an excellent time to consider: Does the rosary have a place in my life? The rosary is a powerful weapon. Through the rosary, let us enter into the school of Mary, accompanying Mary lovingly as she teaches us to contemplate the life of Jesus. &nbsp;A meditation by Father John Agnew.

The Rosary, A Powerful Weapon

Jesus prepared the disciples to bear fruit as they began to evangelize.  We too must prepare for evangelizing as well. During the season of lent let us practice being in the presence Jesus, to be in constant prayer.  In the early church St. Paul taught, to &quot;Put on Christ&quot;.  To evangelize well our faith must grow and for our faith to grow one must pursue holiness. The Second Vatican Council has brought to the forefront that the laity are called to bring the modern world back to Christ.  Through obedience, let us begin in the silence of our meditation to commence with contemplative hearts to change the world. 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>

In Constant Dialogue With Christ

Monica Hinderer joins Doug to continue their discussion on being raised in a highly critical home. In this episode, they unpack how overly critical parents can lead children to become people pleasers. They share how people pleasers tend to suppress their own emotions and have lower self-esteem and offer solutions to help those who struggle with people pleasing. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Andrew - My friend is being raised in a household where they don&rsquo;t really practice their faith, and now he's being influenced by the LGBTQ lifestyle. How can I help my friend?</li> <li>Jenna - I really struggle with people pleasing as an adult. I'm 28, and I don't really know who I am as a person.</li> <li>Charlie - My son became a people pleaser because he wanted to be accepted.</li> <li>Sally - How do I know when to be firm so I don&rsquo;t create a people pleasing child.</li> <li>Louise - People pleasing vs. pleasing God.</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; Emotionally Focused Therapy <a href="https://iceeft.com/">https://iceeft.com/</a> &nbsp; The Disease To Please: Curing the People-Pleasing Syndrome <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Disease-Please-Curing-People-Pleasing-Syndrome/dp/0071385649">https://www.amazon.com/Disease-Please-Curing-People-Pleasing-Syndrome/dp/0071385649</a>

Criticism and people pleasing

20-04-25 Easter Bang! (JE)

Muy agradecidos hemos de estar a Dios que nos ha hecho conocer el misterio de su vida íntima. Sin la revelación sobrenatural nunca hubiéramos alcanzado tal conocimiento. Dios es amor, y no amor cerrado en Sí mismo sino dirigido a Otro: cada Persona divina volcada en Otra. Siendo nosotros imagen y semejanza de Dios, siendo personas, estamos invitados a vivir siempre en el amor.

2025-06-14 Víspera de la Santísima Trinidad

En los años 70 del siglo pasado, san Josemaría quiso alertar sobre la crisis por la que atravesaba la Iglesia escribiendo tres cartas largas, que llamó campanadas. Leyéndolas, advertimos que la crisis es hoy aún más aguda, y hemos de estar vigilantes para no deslizarnos en los errores. ¿Cómo no deslizarnos por los errores? Manteniéndonos con una vida espiritual intensa y una continua oración de petición.

2025-06-17 Las tres campanadas

Dr. Stephanie Kafie joins Doug to discuss the health dangers of artificial contraception and the advantages of Natural Family Planning. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Christina - Where does birth control come from? why was it invented? (21:20)</li> <li>Rita - I have been married for 25 years and use NFP. I am getting closer to menopause what are my options? (23:57)</li> <li>Liz - I used NFP to get pregnant. I had low progesterone and found out by using NFP and it fixed the problem so I could conceive. (37:18)</li> <li>Cecilia - I want to share how I taught my children about this. (41:57)</li> <li>Rhonda - I was given folic acid when my body really needed folate which is the natural version. (45:48)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Marquette Method <a href="https://www.marquettemethod.com/">https://www.marquettemethod.com/</a> &nbsp; Marquette Method of NFP: Getting Started Guide <a href="https://www.vitaefertility.com/what-is-the-marquette-method-of-nfp/">https://www.vitaefertility.com/what-is-the-marquette-method-of-nfp/</a> &nbsp; Totally Yours: The Catholic Natural Family Planning Handbook <a href="https://www.totallyyoursfamilymedicine.com/nfpbook">https://www.totallyyoursfamilymedicine.com/nfpbook</a>

Working with God’s design for our bodies

La Ascensión no es simplemente un eslabón entre Pascua y Pentecostés. Es un misterio en sí, que afecta a la Trinidad y a nosotros. La Trinidad acoge la Santísima Humanidad de Cristo y Él, al introducir carne y espíritu humanos en la Trinidad, nos revela nuestro destino. Tomemos en serio la Ascensión: es un acontecimiento muy relacionado con nuestro destino eterno, al poner de manifiesto la importancia de la parte corpórea del ser humano.

2024-05-12 La Ascensión nos marca

Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai on January 16, 2022, at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto. Luke 18:10: The pharisee and tax collector in the temple… Egotism has a lot in common with parasites... When it settles in the soul, there is no medication that can definitively expel it. It comes back again and again. It reproduces itself constantly. It reappears at the worst times and it takes us a while to realize the immense damage it does to us. So how can we get rid of it?
Music: Amazing Grace (Sublime Gracia) - Violin- Ayako Ishikawa, Internet music archive.
Thumbnail: Gustave Doré (1832-1883) from his "La Grande Bible de Tours", first issued in 1866: Pharisee and publican.

Am I an Egotist?

Want to improve your marriage this year? What are some good resolutions you can make? Doug discusses a set of resolutions to help grow your marriage as well as how to continue them further into the year.

New Year’s resolutions for your marriage

¿Qué ponemos nosotros al ir a Misa? ¿O esperamos tan solo recibir? La eficacia del Santísimo Sacramento del Altar vendrá dada por nuestra participación en la ofrenda de la Víctima. Ahí se destruirán nuestras faltas y las de toda la humanidad. Pero también podemos ser Hostia, ya que en la Misa se vuelven sagradas todas nuestras obras.

2024-10-25 En Misa, Víctima y Hostia

John 21:1-14: Jesus showed himself again to the disciples. It was by the Sea of Tiberias. One senses in Peter’s return to fishing that he is invaded by discouragement. As though all had gone back to normal. No real sense yet of what the real meaning of the resurrection was. It had not sunk in. But they captured 153 fish. What does this mean? Preached at Lyncroft Centre, April 22, 2022.
 
Music: Handel, Opera Rinaldo, Aria "Lascia ch'io pianga", arranged for guitar by Bert Alink. Open source
Thumbnail: James Tissot, Jesus at the Sea of Tiberius. &nbsp;1886-1894. &nbsp;Brooklyn Museum.
For more meditations, check my channel:
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos
www.ernescliff.ca
www.opusdei.ca

Look, It is the Lord!

10-10-24 Why Don't I Ask (MM)

Después de haber hecho la revelación de su amor por nosotros (Como mi Padre me ama…), Jesús asegura que nos ha dicho estas cosas “para que mi gozo esté en ustedes, y su gozo sea colmado” (Jn 15, 11). En efecto, nuestro gozo sería colmado si comprendiéramos que el amor de Dios por cada uno es eterno, incondicional e infinito. Somos “el destino” de Dios, y espera de nosotros la correspondencia a ese amor.

2025-08-10 Te amo como mi Padre me ama a mí

Podemos rezar el Padrenuestro con los cristianos no católicos, porque todo cristiano es discípulo de Aquel que enseñó esta plegaria. Jesús nos enseñó cómo hemos de orar, revelándonos el gran portento de la misericordia divina: que somos hijos de Dios y que hemos de dirigirnos a Él como un hijo habla con su padre.

2025-02-21 Revalora el Padrenuestro

26-04-24 A Deep Discussion with Jesus (MC)

23-01-26 Nicknames (JB)

Cinco veces salió el dueño del campo a contratar trabajadores para su viña. ¿Por qué este interés en su viña? Además, Jesús invita a dejar noventa y nueve ovejas para ir a buscar la perdida. Y también, relata san Mateo, se compadecía de la muchedumbre porque estaban cansadas y extenuadas, como ovejas sin pastor. Sintonicemos con el Corazón de Cristo y dediquemos nuestra vida a la salvación de las almas.

2024-03-21 Jesús se compadece de la muchedumbre

Meditando el salmo 22 encontraremos gran paz. Tomando conciencia de Quién es nuestro Pastor, no temeremos incluso atravesar cañadas oscuras. Nos sentiremos reconfortados con pastos abundantes y fuentes tranquilas. Nuestros enemigos –el mundo, el demonio y la carne– se verán burlados y abrigaremos la convicción de habitar en casa del Señor por años sin término.

2026-09-18 El Señor es mi Pastor

A meditation preached at Kintore College, an Opus Dei student residence in Toronto.Matthew 13:44-46: Jesus said to the crowds: ‘The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field which someone has found; he hides it again, goes off happy, sells everything he owns and buys the field.  ‘Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls; when he finds one of great value he goes and sells everything he owns and buys it.’The treasure means abundance of gifts; the pearl indicates the beauty of the Kingdom. The treasure is something stumbled upon; the pearl, the result of a lengthy search; but in both instances the finder is filled with joy.Music: Original track Michael Lee of TorontoThumbnail: The Famous Ardagh Chalice

What is my Treasure?

Juan 12, 4: “Y yo, cuando sea levantado sobre la tierra, atraeré todas las cosas hacia Mí”. Frase de gran profundidad. Que nos ilumine, ahora que nos acercamos a ese “ser levantado”. Los antiguos sabían que per áspera ad astra, ‘a través de las dificultades llegamos a las estrellas’. Pero la Cruz de Cristo es algo mucho más radical: con ella todo cambia. Ahí se realiza toda la salvación y se nos comunica todo bien.

2024-03-20 Cuando yo sea levantado…

The feast of the Epiphany tells us that Christ meant for everyone.   The Magi are the very first of billions of gentiles who will come to be saved in Jesus.  The journey of the Magi speaks to us of our own need to search for God.  The star they follow and the finding of Jesus bring them great joy, as our own vocation and conversions give us the joy of meeting God in Christ. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

The Epiphany: Searching for God

Doug continues his discussion on conflict in marriage. He shares what St. Thomas More can teach us about marriage. Callers weigh in with their questions and success stories from their marriages.

St. Thomas More and Conflict in Marriage

In this meditation from Fr. Peter Armenio, priest of Opus Dei, we are invited to reflect upon the “apostolate of attraction” as the means by which we are to fulfill the Great Commission and lead others into relationship with Jesus Christ. This type of apostolate, as old as the Gospel itself and encouraged by Pope Francis, begins by our faithful witness to the love of Christ: “people need to see us as oases of joy and peace.”   It is our witness, only later accompanied by doctrine, that will prove that Jesus is real. “Whenever sanctity is genuine, it overflows from its vessel to fill other hearts, other souls, with its superabundance. We, the children of God, sanctify ourselves by sanctifying others. Is Christian life growing around you? Consider this every day” (St. Josemaria Escriva; The Forge, no. 856).  Before our Lord sent the Apostles out into the world, he gave them the new commandment of love, instructing them to remain united with him and replicate his heart. Despite any obstacles and difficulties they would face, Jesus promised them that in following this commandment, they would succeed in sharing the Gospel, since it would be him acting through them. This remains true for us still today; if we remain united to his heart and participate in his life, others will come to know him through our love. 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>

Apostolate of Attraction

La sola mención del nombre de María trae hasta nosotros el aire del paraíso. De belleza, de paz, de elevar nuestra autoestima al sabernos amados. Jesús nos invitó a ser niños, y queremos serlo pequeños, para caber en el regazo de María. Una vida fuera del regazo de María es demasiado complicada. Su vientre es el molde donde hemos de formarnos.

2024-12-04 En el regazo de María

29-05-24 We can! (MC)

06-04-25 Found Out and Forgiven (RS)

30-12-25 Sanctity under Siege (FD)

Fr. Jeff Langan answers this timely question about the May pilgrimages to Our Lady. He shares thoughts on the first pilgrimage he made, instructions on how to do one yourself, and what we can ask Our Lady during these times of prayer. Have a question you'd like Fr. Jeff to answer in a future episode? Email us at <a href="mailto:info@fairestloveshrine.org">info@fairestloveshrine.org</a> to have your question added to our lineup!

Ep. 17 Q&A What is a May Pilgrimage?

Is it appropriate for someone of the opposite sex to give your spouse a massage at work? Can fasting result in a happier marriage? Where do you draw the line with verbally abusive teenagers? Doug answers these questions and more. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Colleen - I totally agree that the massage is not ok. But you glossed over him saying 'you didn&rsquo;t have permission'. That&rsquo;s a red flag in my book. (15:31)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Monica Hinderer <a href="https://www.monicahinderer.com/">https://www.monicahinderer.com/</a>

Fasting, Marriage, and Healthy Boundaries

Monica Hinderer joins Doug discussing how to teach your children the virtue of resilience. They stress the importance of having consistent loving caregivers and responsive attention at an early age. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>David - How do I help my daughter forgive and move on? (8:02)</li> <li>Kathleen - I have a 22-year-old who's constantly arguing. He has ADHD, and I'm wanting to know how to handle the situation. (35:36)</li> </ul> Resources: The Forgiveness Institute <a href="https://internationalforgiveness.com/">https://internationalforgiveness.com/</a> Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Teaching your children resilience

23-05-25 Tough experiences bear good fruit (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...

2026-08-18 Corona a tu Reina

Fr. Carter Griffin joins Doug to discuss his book Forming Families, Forming Saints. Together, they explore how human and spiritual formation help cultivate virtue and shape families into communities of faith, fostering the growth of future saints. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Len - I just bought the book! Lots of wisdom. I will order 8 more! (37:39)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Forming Families, Forming Saints <a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/store/forming-families-forming-saints">https://stpaulcenter.com/store/forming-families-forming-saints</a>

Faith Begins at Home

In our meditation of the week for the First Week of Advent, Msgr. Fred Dolan invites us to use this season as a time of true preparation, not just for Christmas but for our eventual encounter with Jesus Christ. Advent is a call to conversion, urging us to go beyond small, surface-level changes and instead embrace the profound transformation that the Holy Spirit desires to work within us, reshaping us entirely to reflect Christ. With the help of Our Lady, we can grow in a contemplative spirit, learning to freely and lovingly seek God in all things and to see our lives through his eyes. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/First-Week-of-Advent-Conversion-and-Contrition-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/first-week-of-advent-conversion-and-contrition/'>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>

First Week of Advent: Conversion and Contrition

La meditación de la Pasión de Cristo trae incontables beneficios a nuestra alma. La clave del amor es sentir lo que otro siente. Las enseñanzas de los santos sobre la Pasión de Cristo nos iluminan. Cristo tiene en la Cruz los brazos abiertos para acogernos a todos.

2026-03-26 Pasión de Cristo con santos

Cincuenta rosas que le envía a una dama y luego la llena de piropos… le lleva serenata a la más hermosa de las mujeres. Así ve Armando Fuentes el rezo del rosario. Un medio entrañable y de enorme profundidad teológica: al contemplar los misterios descubrimos, desde el corazón de María, las gracias que Dios nos destina.

2025-04-26 Cincuenta rosas, muchos piropos.

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

Are you married to a future saint?

12-01-26 Kairos (EA)

Alegría ante el nacimiento de la Santísima Virgen María, esperanza de nuestra salvación. La devoción a la Divina Infantita nos invita a purificar nuestra infancia, pues ahí también pecamos. Y en cualquier época de nuestra vida, y en el día de hoy, muchas veces. La Gracia plena de María nos invita a la contrición, a la conversión, a la purificación, al aprovechamiento del sacramento de la penitencia.

2025-09-08 La Virgen Niña

Fr. Eric Nicolai gives one of the first meditations at a retreat at Ernescliff College, Dec 26, 2020. This is on the mystery of vocation. God chooses and calls everyone: He chose us in Christ, that we should be holy and blameless in his presence through love (Eph 1:4).
He chose Abraham in Christ. He chose Sarai his wife. He chose Jacob, changed his very name to Israel, and then saved Moses from sure destruction, and chose him to lead his people. He chose David. He chose Jeremiah, and Ezekial, and Daniel, and Ruth, and even Melchisedek, that mysterious figure whose purpose it took so long to figure out.
He chose Mary, he chose John the Baptist. He chose you and me. Don’t let this pass as a fait accompli. Experience it.
Music: Adrian Berenguer, Fall, from the album Singularity (2017)
Thumbnail: Prophet Jeremiah by Michelangelo, Sistine Chapel

Our Divine Vocation: Time to Fall in Love Again

Al apóstol Tomás le dijo Jesús una de las frases más conocidas: “Yo soy el camino, la verdad y la vida”. Estamos invitados a ir más allá de las enseñanzas del Señor para centrarnos en la Persona del Señor. Si vivimos con la mirada puesta en Él, sabremos, como Marianela la de Pérez Galdós, cuándo es de día -si lo vemos- y cuándo es de noche, cuando nos vemos a nosotros mismos.

2025-04-27 El camino que salva

El escriba a quien Jesús narra la parábola del buen samaritano dice que de los tres que pasaron junto al herido el prójimo fue quien tuvo misericordia de él. Busquemos ejercitarnos en ella porque las miserias nos la reclaman. Cada persona lleva consigo su dolor y su misterio, y la dureza de juicio no apunta a la verdad. Lo que dice Juan de Pedro dice más de Juan que de Pedro.

2026-01-16 Pasar de largo ante las miserias

The Holy Mass makes present Jesus&apos; Resurrection as well as his sacrifice on the Cross.  The Body of Christ, as a resurrected body, is a gift that is given to others.  To receive our Lord is to become like him and moves us to imitate his goodness.  <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com/'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Rebroadcast: "Become what you receive": Easter and the Eucharist

Why did God use a rib from Adam to create Eve? Why did St. Paul write; “Wives, be subject to your husband, as to the Lord”? Fr. Robert Altier joins Doug to discuss the origins of marriage and God’s design for your marriage.   God’s Plan For Your Marriage <a href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/gods-plan-for-your-marriage/">https://sophiainstitute.com/product/gods-plan-for-your-marriage/</a>

God's Design for your Marriage

A meditation preached at Ernescliff College on the feast of the Transfiguration, August 6, 2024.
In the Old testament the prophet Daniel had a vision that foreshadowed the transfiguration: Thrones were set in place
and one of great age took his seat.
His robe was white as snow,
the hair of his head as pure as wool. (Daniel 7, 9-10). 
The Transfiguration scene can help us consider what Heaven will be like. In it, some men - Peter, John and James - have an anticipated vision of the glory of God.
Music: Abide With Me by Henry F. Lyte, 1847, internet archive: Fox Aeternum.
Thumbnail: Raphael, Transfiguration, 1520. Vatican Museum.

The Transfiguration: a Preview of the Preview

Doug discusses the example of St. Rita and how to handle being married to a difficult person <ul> <li>(4:58) Dynamic Catholic - Surrender our will to God</li> <li>(8:30) Trustful Surrender to Divine Providence</li> <li>(14:46) CALLER – Michael - I was struggling in my marriage for a long time but what helped me out was a book Lila Miller has called impossible marriages redeemed.</li> </ul> (16:34) Break 1 <ul> <li>(18:04) CALLER – Dave - I think that Satan is working on me. My wife is amazing, but I get nervous when things are too good. What should I do?</li> <li>(23:21) CALLER – Robin - We have been married many years but there are many troubles in our marriage. He struggles with addictions and goes from one addiction to another. I feel terrible because it is affecting our adult children. What should I do?</li> <li>(31:30) – St. Rita of Untiring Patience</li> </ul> (35:43) BREAK 2 <ul> <li>(36:34) Emails – Adrian. Wife has anger issues.</li> <li>(40:34) Email – Hannah – Husband moved out. Husband not interested. Hannah wants to move on</li> <li>(44:29) St. Rita of Untiring Patience (pt. 2)</li> <li>(46:03) St. Rita, mirror for Christian spouses</li> </ul>

Marriage Unhindered – May 25, 2024 – How To Live With A Difficult Spouse

La santidad es un concepto difícil de definir. Podríamos decir que es lo propio de Dios y, desde esa óptica, la comprendemos como amor unitivo. Todo cuanto existe es efecto del amor y tiene al amor como fin. Dios no ha creado nada para que sea una mónada independiente, aislada: el átomo está orientado a integrarse en la molécula y el ángel en los coros. El infierno es estar solo: busquemos siempre la unión amorosa para evitar ese riesgo.

2026-04-10 Santidad, Amor, Unión

Ante la enseñanza de Jesús expuesta en la parábola del buen samaritano, queremos evitar la actitud del levita y del sacerdote, que “pasaron de largo”, sin detenerse ante el malherido. A nuestro lado siempre hay alguien que necesita misericordia, no dudemos en vivir esta actitud tan cristiana. Oración de santa Faustina: “Haz, Señor, que mis ojos sean misericordiosos, que mis oídos sean misericordiosos…”.

2024-11-12 Hazme misericordioso

Should you change your name after a divorce? What do you do when your wife has a chronic, incurable illness, and most of the responsibilities at home fall on you and your children? How do you cope when your wife feels guilty and worries about the burden placed on you? Do struggles with pornography make it difficult to give full consent to marriage? Doug goes to the mailbag answering these questions and more. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Pete - My friend is so hurt from his separation that he is withdrawing from everything in his life. What do we do? (9:34)</li> <li>Ronda - Regarding a name change after divorced, you should do what makes you feel more comfortable. (13:44)</li> <li>Rose - I kept my name after the divorce because I wanted to have the same name as my kids. (17:02)</li> <li>Jeff - My wife had an ex-husband and had kids with me and now they have the old husband&rsquo;s name. It&rsquo;s a mess. (22:46)</li> <li>Mary - I kept mine because I am a stander and we are still married in the eyes of God. (25:24)</li> <li>Sarina - My mom changed her name and that&rsquo;s how I met my husband. (38:05)</li> <li>Mary - It&rsquo;s important to realize that marriage is sacrificial and it doesn&rsquo;t always lead to happiness (39:48)</li> <li>Angelica - I was married for 16 years and I took my name back because my in laws didn&rsquo;t like me. I didn&rsquo;t think it was fair and I explained it to my son. (41:49)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; <a href="https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/13/2026-09479/excepted-fertility-benefits?mc_cid=583286c936#open-comment">https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/13/2026-09479/excepted-fertility-benefits?mc_cid=583286c936#open-comment</a> &nbsp; It&rsquo;s Your Turn Now <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urgp4IiOXDk">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=urgp4IiOXDk</a> &nbsp; Reclaimed: Win the War of Freedom, Self-Mastery, and Holy Purity <a href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/reclaimed-win-the-war-of-freedom-self-mastery-and-holy-purity?srsltid=AfmBOorMA4RbYh_WzayDVdBX3vpx7hGA7-OpnEEYKLuUlxpeZ4EPp1lp&amp;variant=46653355524273">https://scepterpublishers.org/products/reclaimed-win-the-war-of-freedom-self-mastery-and-holy-purity?srsltid=AfmBOorMA4RbYh_WzayDVdBX3vpx7hGA7-OpnEEYKLuUlxpeZ4EPp1lp&amp;variant=46653355524273</a>

Should you change your name after divorce?

Is it healthy to never argue with your spouse? What should you do if you discover your father is having an affair? Doug answers these questions and more. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Samantha - My friend wants to get married but the guy is not Catholic or a US citizen. What's good advice for my friend without being a know-it-all? (18:14)</li> <li>Stefano - How do you deal with lust in a dating relationship when your partner wants to take things too far. (29:30)</li> <li>Phillip - Response to Stefano: Unless she wants to convert there are so many issues waiting to happen. It&rsquo;s more than just a sexual problem. (42:36)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>

What happens if you never argue?

Moisés y Elías hablan con Jesús, en la cumbre del Tabor, de su próxima Pasión en Jerusalén. El Tabor y el Calvario no son independientes, ni entonces ni ahora. El que huye o rechaza la cruz, decía el santo Cura de Ars, no es cristiano. Hemos de buscar, sin embargo, no la cruz por la cruz, sino la cruz donde el Crucificado manifiesta máximamente su amor.

2026-02-20 Tabor y Calvario

24-12-25 Keeping Silence, Breaking Silence (JK)

San Pablo se cuestiona y nos cuestiona: “¿Qué podrá separarnos del amor de Cristo? ¿La tribulación? ¿La angustia? ¿La espada? ¿Los peligros? ¿El hambre?... somos victoriosos en Aquel que nos amó”. No nos resulta sencillo creer en un amor así, dada la conciencia de nuestra miseria. Pero sin duda será esa seguridad la que nos llene de contento en cualquier situación.

2024-10-19 Qué puede separarme del amor de Cristo

Holiness is God&apos;s own will and resolution for us.  In calling us to be holy God resolves that we be such.  Holiness is the fullness of charity.  To respond to our call to holiness, to live this divine resolution, is to learn to love God in himself and in and through all things.

[Rebroadcast] A Permanent New Year’s Resolution: Holiness

Jesús nos pidió amar a nuestros prójimos como Él nos ama, es decir, sin esperar a que el prójimo esté lleno de cualidades. Ese tipo de amor tendría ribetes egoístas, sería un amor de indigencia. El suyo es un amor de excedencia, que ama por sobreabundancia de amor. Busquemos que el Espíritu Santo nos sea donado, y tendremos la maravillosa realidad del amor divino con el que seremos capaces de amar.

2025-01-10 Si amas, podrás ayudar.

03-12-25 Who is Teaching Who (MM)

"Then shall he speak to them in his anger and trouble them in his rage..." Psalm 2:5Jake, Louis, and Pat delve deeper into Verse 5, exploring how divine disturbance manifests as a profound expression of divine love and correction. Through compelling biblical stories, insightful theological reflections, and personal spiritual experiences, they uncover how God's anger can emerge both externally and internally. This episode reveals how such divine disruptions can ultimately lead to spiritual realignment and growth.

Verse 5, Part 3 - Understanding Divine Disturbance

God entrusts St. Joseph with his most precious possessions, his mother and his Divine Son.  We too are entrusted with a sacred responsibility in life: to care for and love God&apos;s children.  Everything and everyone in our life--including ourselves--is a gift from God, something valued by God himself.  This calls for a great reverence and respect on our part.  We can&apos;t &quot;do whatever we want&quot; with ourselves or others.  Like King David, our reverence for what belongs to God gives us pause whenever we are tempted to damage it.   <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

St. Joseph: Life as a Sacred Trust

Today we bring you a homily from Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest for the Prelature of Opus Dei. It was recorded on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception in 2014 at St. Mary of the Angels Catholic Church in Chicago, IL (USA).Fr. Peter reflects on the verse “All generations will call me blessed,” and how Mary is the template for the New Evangelization. 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>

Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

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.

2024-09-21 Mateo abre a Jesús su casa

Have you found the secret to a happy marriage? What advice would you give your children on their wedding day? Today, Doug continues to unpack marriage advice from 20 older men. PLUS: The Friday rant. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Lorna - What do you do when your spouse is a narcissist? We have been married for 30 years and have adult children. (12:01)</li> <li>Paul - Marriage is a chance for sacrifice. (19:46)</li> <li>Nancy - My husband worked in construction, and he worked on the side. He made a living and took care of our 14 children. (38:37)</li> <li>Deedee - I&rsquo;m a widow. Is it possible to have a good second marriage compared to your first husband? (44:18)</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; Advice from older men <ol> <li>Argue to understand, not to win.</li> <li>Be complete people as individuals.</li> <li>Remember that creativity is key.</li> <li>Prioritize each other.</li> <li>Let go of selfishness.</li> <li>Respect your spouse even if it means passing up a good joke.</li> <li>Have each other&rsquo;s backs.</li> <li>Learn to cook for each other.</li> <li>Reaffirm your commitment.</li> <li>Check in with each other.</li> <li>Let them vent.</li> <li>Stay faithful.</li> <li>Mind your money.</li> <li>Pick your battles.</li> <li>Be generous with signs of affection.</li> <li>Be best friends.</li> <li>Remember that she is important.</li> <li>Retain your individuality.</li> <li>Kiss like you mean it.</li> <li>Marry the right person.</li> <li>Doug&rsquo;s advice: The man has the last word: &lsquo;Yes, dear.&rsquo;</li> </ol>

Having a happy marriage: Advice from older men (Part 2)

16-01-25 Prayer 101 (JPM)

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

2024-10-18 El armonizador

“Mi ángel y yo”, ¿qué estaría escrito en ese libro? Quizá pocas líneas, porque consideramos poco esa consoladora compañía y protección. Pensar en ese mundo tan por encima del nuestro, de tanta magnificencia y esplendor, nos alegrará. Hacer ejercicios de espiritualización, es decir, de trascender la pura materialidad, nos hará más familiar el mundo de los ángeles.

2025-08-02 Alegrarnos con los ángeles

“Imita la compasión / de Verónica y su manto / si de Cristo el rostro santo / quieres en tu corazón”. Dentro de su sencillez, esta letrilla descubre rutas de interioridad: la com-pasión, es decir, el padecer-con Jesús conduce a apropiarnos de su rostro, de su fisonomía, de su persona. Amando la Cruz y sabiendo acompañar al Señor en su dolorosa pasión, nos iremos conformando -haciendo a la forma- de Jesús.

2025-08-09 Imita la compasión de la Verónica

2025-11-13 Hazme misericordioso

Ángel es su oficio, no su naturaleza. Son mensajeros de alegría porque ven el final, no se toman demasiado en serio y son bienaventurados. Nos traen el aroma del paraíso. Cuidemos que no caigan en saco roto sus mensajes, y mantengamos la alegría, también a base de descubrir los detalles que Dios nos regala cada jornada. Eso incluye la “cara alegre”, evitando las caras de funeral, vinagre, pepino, tótem, piedra, murciélago, etc.

2025-04-28 Mensajeros de alegría

06-10-25 Let the Lord Work (FD)

Sr. Renee Mirkes joins Doug to discuss NaPro Technology. She shares the great news that NaPro Technology can help couples conceive a child through a method in line with the teachings of the Catholic Church. She explains the difference between IVF and NaPro Technology and unpacks procedures, costs and the success rate of NaPro. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Juliet - NaPro is a huge blessing. We haven't been able to conceive yet but are getting help through the use of NaPro Technology.</li> <li>Patrice - Speaking to the deeper issue of fertility and what we want instead of trusting in God&rsquo;s will for us.</li> <li>Ellen - How do you approach other Catholics with the importance of God&rsquo;s will especially when it pertains to Church teaching on IVF?</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Sr. Renee Mirkes <a href="mailto:ethics@popepaulvi.com">ethics@popepaulvi.com</a> &nbsp; An Open Letter to JD Vance about IVF <a href="https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/02/28/an-open-letter-to-jd-vance-about-ivf/">https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2025/02/28/an-open-letter-to-jd-vance-about-ivf/</a> &nbsp; Rekindled Hearts <a href="https://relevantradio.store/products/rekindled-hearts-book">https://relevantradio.store/products/rekindled-hearts-book</a>

The Gift of NaPro Technology

En Lourdes, el Cielo se abre. Y nos manifiesta a una Madre preocupada por sus hijos, que viene a darles salud y vida. Porque Ella no es solo motivo de piedad afectiva, sino que en Ella se une Dios con la humanidad. Y todo en la Iglesia debe quedar bajo el manto mariano, porque entonces participa de la salvación.

2026-02-11 En Lourdes María

El centro de las miradas es el costado abierto. Todos los bienes nos llegan del costado traspasado de Cristo. Allí residen los secretos del amor divino. “Jesús nos ha conocido y amado a cada uno de nosotros”, enseña el Catecismo. Creamos que “Dios no sabe contar sino hasta a uno”, y todo su amor, divino y humano, está volcado sobre cada uno.

2026-06-11 Mira al que traspasaron

09-03-25 Humanity in a stadium (EA)

<a href="https://rss.com/podcasts/social-doctrine-daily/voicemail" target="_blank">Hey! I'd love to hear your thoughts, send me a voice note.</a>Social Doctrine Daily is a daily podcast reading the social encyclicals of the Catholic Church.This podcast exists for people who want to work their way through catholic social teaching, but struggle to find the time. Each episode offers about ten minutes of a simple, uninterrupted audio reading from the documents themselves.You can listen on the Scepter Publishers app or wherever you get your podcasts.Download the free Scepter Spiritual Reading app here:Apple App Store:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scepter-publishers/id6755748736">https://apps.apple.com/us/app/scepter-publishers/id6755748736</a>Google Play Store:<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.scepterpublishers.app&amp;hl=en_US">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.scepterpublishers.app&amp;hl=en_US</a>You can read more about Scepter here: <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://www.scepterpublishers.org">www.scepterpublishers.org</a>These encyclicals—from popes such as Pope Leo XIII, Pope Pius XI, Pope John XXIII, Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis—form the heart of what is known as Catholic social teaching, a tradition that seeks to guide society toward what many have called a civilization of love.Core Documents of Catholic Social TeachingRerum Novarum — Pope Leo XIII (1891)Quadragesimo Anno — Pope Pius XI (1931)Mater et Magistra — Pope John XXIII (1961)Pacem in Terris — Pope John XXIII (1963)Gaudium et Spes — Second Vatican Council (1965)Populorum Progressio — Pope Paul VI (1967)Octogesima Adveniens — Pope Paul VI (1971)Justice in the World — Synod of Bishops (1971)Evangelii Nuntiandi — Pope Paul VI (1975)Redemptor Hominis — Pope John Paul II (1979)Laborem Exercens — Pope John Paul II (1981)Sollicitudo Rei Socialis — Pope John Paul II (1987)Centesimus Annus — Pope John Paul II (1991)Evangelium Vitae — Pope John Paul II (1995)Deus Caritas Est — Pope Benedict XVI (2005)Caritas in Veritate — Pope Benedict XVI (2009)Evangelii Gaudium — Pope Francis (2013)Laudato Si’ — Pope Francis (2015)Fratelli Tutti — Pope Francis (2020)Querida Amazonia — Pope Francis (2020)Laudate Deum — Pope Francis (2023)Magnifica Humanitas - Pope Leo XIV (2026)If you’d like to follow along with the text, all documents are available online through the Vatican website.

Magnifica Humanitas (Part 6)

On today&apos;s podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo sets the stage for a five-part series on <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/product/a-spiritual-retreat-on-the-road-to-emmaus/'>The Road to Emmaus</a>. In the Scripture passage, we see that the disciples do not make it all the way to Emmaus. This is a sign of their own conversion as they were running away from the events they had witnessed. In their eyes, they were let down. Christ was supposed to liberate them from the Romans, but as a result of the crucifixion, their Savior looks like a fraud. In the eyes of these two disciples, Christ wasn’t supposed to die, he was supposed to win. This Gospel scene challenges us to ask ourselves: Are we running away from something? What is our idea of salvation? Are we looking for safety or an “insurance policy”? What you read in the Gospel “is something that you should not only hear, but live. Everything, every point that is told there, has been gathered, detail by detail, for you to make it come alive in the individual circumstances of your life” (The Forge, no. 754). Saints find their mission in the Gospel. We see so many people in the world today running away from something and trying to “escape” in sinful ways. Deep down, we are longing for something greater. Where do we place our hope? The Gospel story needs to be repeated in each one of us. Christ seeks each of us out and radiates his love to us. Are we willing to let him find us? Additional information on the series can be found online: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/product/a-spiritual-retreat-on-the-road-to-emmaus/'>https://stjosemaria.org/product/a-spiritual-retreat-on-the-road-to-emmaus/</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>

Part One | Searching for More

30-03-25 The Prodigal Son... Again (MC)

06-07-24 Our Other Half (DOH)

12-02-26 Model GenZ Mum (EA)

01-02-26 Treasuring God's word in Scripture (JE)

22-04-26 Hungry (RS)

La lectura atenta de la parábola de los trabajadores de la viña nos permite advertir que los llamados a la hora undécima estuvieron sin ir a la viña porque nadie los había contratado. Pensemos si dejamos a la gente en vía muerta, conformándonos con que lleven una vida mediocre. Aparece el peligro de las almas retardadas y, con esa situación, la tibieza y la vida anclada en las comodidades.

2025-08-21 Todos en la viña

In the Desert with Jesus

Las indicaciones litúrgicas invitan los viernes a celebrar la Misa votiva de la Preciosísima Sangre de Cristo. Resaltemos el hecho de que, al recibir la Comunión, estamos recibiendo la Sangre del Señor. No se trata de una metáfora, sino de una realidad. Esa Sangre tiene, como primer efecto, nuestra purificación; luego, comunicarnos el fuego del Amor, hasta embriagarnos con la felicidad de la unión.

2025-02-07 Sangre de Cristo en mis venas

Lent invites us each year to obtain a deep conversion of heart, through prayer and self-denial. We are encouraged to open ourselves to God's action in renewing our hearts, and not to expect perfection in our Lenten observances, but rather to keep struggling, no matter how often we fall short. A meditation by Father John Agnew.