María, con Jesús en brazos, sale de su ocultamiento de 40 días previsto por la ley mosaica. Va al Templo, y se le anuncia que una espada traspasará su corazón en el ofrecimiento de su Hijo. La pureza se purifica, como para invitarnos a vigilar la propia pureza de nuestro corazón. Más que atender a las virtudes aisladas, monitoreemos nuestro corazón, del que procede todo lo bueno y lo malo.

2025-02-02 Purificación

Listen in to Chapters 4 and 5 of Alexandre Havard's book, Coached by Joan of Arc: Lessons in Virtuous Leadership. Here we learn from Joan's life how to create a plan to live a magnanimous life and to cultivate filial piety

Create a Plan for Personal Growth - Coached by Joan of Arc

Refiriéndose a Jesús, dice san Juan en su primera carta (1, 1-4) que “la Vida se manifestó”. ¿La Vida? Sí, el que se manifestó fue el Verbo de la Vida, pues Él la posee en plenitud. ¿Somos conscientes de que nos ha comunicado su Vida, la Vida divina? Dentro del misterio que supone toda vida, es aún más misterioso el de la Vida de Cristo. Que nos vivifiquemos en la recepción de los sacramentos y en la vida ‘a dúo’ o, mejor, siendo uno y el mismo.

2024-10-14 Vida en Cristo

Jesús, en la Cruz, dijo: “Tengo sed”. El evangelista dice que dijo eso “para que se cumpliera la Escritura”. En otras palabras, no solo tiene sed física, sino tiene una sed en sentido más profundo. En los salmos se habla de la sed del Redentor: “En mi sed me dieron vinagre” (Ps 69). ¿Qué supone decir que Jesús tiene sed? Sed de ser correspondido, de ser amado, sed de almas: sed de que el hombre tenga sed de Él.

2026-08-07 Sed de Cristo

Es una providencial alegría celebrar a san José en el arranque del mes de María. Seguramente fue iniciativa de Ella, la primera devota de José. Como él, estamos llamados a lograr un espacio sagrado ahí donde pasamos una gran parte del día, el espacio de nuestro trabajo. Porque también nosotros, como José, nos sabemos íntimamente unidos a Jesús y a su Santísima Madre.

2026-05-01 Como en el taller de José

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation in Lyncroft Centre in Toronto, on November 2, 2024. Saint Josemaria faced a lot of opposition when he started his apostolic endeavours. In the Way he said: "God wants a handful of men 'of his own' in every human activity. And then... 'pax Christi in regno Christi — the peace of Christ in the kingdom of Christ'. "
We have to help him reign really with our apostolate. He wants to need us. He wants us to be docile subjects. He wants us to go out there and stir things up. 
Pope Francis speaks of hacer lio. ¡Hagan lío! Pero un lío que nazca de conocer a Jesús. Shake things up. I think you would say: “make a mess!” Messiness is a good things. Later we will clean up what must be cleaned. “stir up trouble!” or “shake things up!”
Music: Regi Stone, All Heaven Declares, From Catholic Music Youtube Channel. 2003 Straight Arrow Records. Released on: 2003-01-01
Main Artist: Regi Stone
Composer: Darlene Zschech
Lyricist: Darlene Zschech
Music Publisher: Hillsongs
Thumbnail: Shove Memorial Chapel, Colorado College.

Let's Make a Mess: Spreading His Reign all over

Es una alegría celebrar a san José en el arranque del mes de María. Seguramente fue iniciativa de Ella, la primera devota de José. Como él, estamos llamados a lograr un espacio sagrado en el sitio donde pasamos una gran parte del día, el espacio de nuestro trabajo. Porque también nosotros, como José, nos sabemos íntimamente unidos a Jesús y a su Santísima Madre.

2025-05-01 Como en el taller de José

San Efrén el Sirio dice que nuestro corazón es como un pequeño jarrón que, si está lleno, no puede caber nada más. Y si está vacío puede caber cualquier cosa. Nuestro corazón es deficiente y miserable, pero ¿qué será el de Jesús? Las Letanías al Sagrado Corazón nos dan pistas seguras, aunque al final todo se resuma en el horno ardiente de amor, en el que hemos de intentar incursionar.

2024-10-21 Un pequeño jarrón

Doug shares a story from Impossible Marriages Redeemed by Leila Miller. After 20 years of her husband&rsquo;s lies, infidelity and pornography addiction the wife in this case knew that divorce was not an option. While this wife wanted to run the other way, she realized that her husband needed healing and conversion. The husband committed to sobriety and the wife committed to forgiveness. Doug stresses the importance of working hard at your marriage every day while relying on the grace of God to live a holy fruitful life. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Joe - I am currently in marriage counseling and my wife is a narcissist. What am I supposed to do if the counseling hasn't gone well? (18:36)</li> <li>Lisa - I'm currently waiting to talk to a deacon about having my marriage dissolved. I'm confused.&nbsp; We're still legally married. What should I do? (25:22)</li> <li>Mare - I was married for 40 plus years and my husband left and divorced me. He went with another woman.&nbsp; I'm trying to move on and I don't want an annulment.&nbsp; I still have hope.&nbsp; I try to listen to God. Am I wasting my time hoping? (35:46)</li> <li>Tom - I'm really curious, how does the legal separation work? (40:33)</li> <li>Linda - How do you start a conversation with your husband if you know it's going to hurt him and he doesn't want it. We've been married 40+ years, and he views pornography. I also don't want sex anymore. (42:45)</li> </ul> Resources: Impossible Marriages Redeemed <a href="https://www.leilamiller.net/impossiblemarriagesredeemedpdf">https://www.leilamiller.net/impossiblemarriagesredeemedpdf</a>

When divorce is not an option

Doug shares three tips from St. Bernard on gaining wisdom and explores how to apply them to our marriages today. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Brian - Somebody came into my life briefly and because of my life issues they left. How do I move on or get them back? (21:52)</li> <li>Jessica - I don&rsquo;t like the way my daughter dresses or the music she likes. How do I address this tension? (25:49)</li> <li>Noah - I am currently living in Utah and there aren&rsquo;t many Catholics. What should I do? (33:40)</li> <li>Allen - The Philippines are about to legalize divorce. Muslims are protesting but the Catholics seem to be silent. What are your thoughts? (37:49)</li> <li>Lindsey - My mom is not Catholic and my family members are convinced she will go straight to heaven. Is this true? (40:38)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a> &nbsp; Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a> &nbsp; St. Bernard of Clairvaux on gaining wisdom <ol> <li>Give thanks and praise</li> <li>Go to confession</li> <li>Be prudent in desire and speech</li> </ol>

Gaining Wisdom in Marriage

Si la sal se desvirtúa, ¿con qué se la salará?, preguntaba el Señor. Y, ¿qué es lo que nos desvirtúa? El pecado. Son tremendas las consecuencias, especialmente para los sacerdotes. En vez de un gran bien, harían un gran mal: si vive en estado de pecado, acaba haciendo una gran cantidad de sacrilegios. Antes morir que pecar.

2024-01-31 El pecado del sacerdote

#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.

01-09-25 Unfolded (MRS)

No estamos hablando de una reliquia, ni siquiera una reliquia del mismo Jesús. Es Él, en Persona, el que, con su poder y su amor omnipotentes, ha querido quedarse en el Pan. ¿No es locura, no es demencial, no es casi absurdo creer eso? Pero, realmente, el loco es el Dios en el que creemos, es una locura de Amor. Hoy, Jueves Santo, reiniciamos la Eucaristía. Él no está en los Sagrarios, y podemos aprovechar para reformatear nuestra cabeza y nuestro corazón con una nueva mística de la Eucaristía.

2024-03-28 La Sagrada Institución

Nuestro deseo más hondo es alcanzar el Cielo. A María la llamamos “Puerta del cielo” porque con Ella Dios volvió a abrir la puerta del paraíso que permanecía cerrada desde el pecado de Adán y Eva. María es Inmaculada: a esa puerta nos encaminamos viviendo en gracia. María nos espera en la puerta del Cielo, porque es nuestra madre. Y a Ella le complacerá vernos más y más reflejando en nuestra vida sus modos.

2024-09-24 Puerta para el Cielo

A principios del siglo XX, un travieso jovencillo llamado Raimundo oyó que su mamá la decía: “Te portas tan mal que no sé qué será de ti”. Afligido, rezó intensamente a María. Ella se le apareció con dos coronas, una blanca y otra roja. Él escogió las dos: su vida sería de pureza y de martirio. El jovencillo sería san Maximiliano María Kolbe, mártir de la caridad, que recomendaba: “¡Amen a la Inmaculada!”. San Josemaría invita a tratar “de verdad” a la Virgen, para encontrar así todo el amor de Cristo.

2024-08-14 Amen a la Inmaculada

29-01-26 Where is the Light Switch? (MC)

13-04-25 My first burden (JB)

"The kings of the earth stood up and the princes met together against the Lord and against his Christ." Psalm 2:2In this episode of Sons and Kings, the hosts delve into Psalm 2, exploring its various interpretations and the significance of its themes. They discuss the four senses of scripture—literal, allegorical, moral, and eschatological and how these can be applied to deepen understanding and prayer. The conversation also touches on the eschatological implications of the psalm, reflecting on the ongoing spiritual battle faced by Christians. Personal reflections on the verse highlight its relevance in contemporary life, emphasizing the importance of recognizing spiritual warfare and the need for confidence in faith.

Verse 2, Part 1 - The Four Senses of Scripture Explained

21-04-25 Easter Praises (MRS)

Are you in a marriage that&rsquo;s broken and you&rsquo;re not sure what to do about it? Doug shares spiritual direction from St. Pio of Pietrlcina and applies it to married life.&nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Marie - We have been married for 20 plus years. My husband moved out and he&rsquo;s angry. He has had an illness and alcohol abuse for the last 17 years. I pray for him but I fear for his soul. (19:07)</li> <li>Tess - I have been married for many years and my husband is disabled. He has accused me of infidelity because he suffers from paranoia. He follows me in his wheel chair to the gym at night. (35:15)</li> <li>Vick - I want to speak words of comfort for Marie. (45:31)</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; St. Pio&rsquo;s 5 Point Rule of Life <ol> <li>Weekly Confession</li> <li>Daily Communion</li> <li>Examination of Conscience Every Evening</li> <li>Daily Spiritual Reading</li> <li>Mental Prayer Twice Daily</li> </ol>

5 ways to be holy

Jesús curaba toda dolencia y toda enfermedad. Merece, como nadie, el título de médico. También ahora cuida y sana, comenzando por nuestra capacidad visual, miope muchas veces; deformada otras. Y nos curará también de los males del corazón, insuficiencia cardíaca que no bombea fuego de amor. O nuestro psiquismo, por ejemplo, el déficit de atención. María nos lleva al Médico en cada dolencia y nos ayuda a seguir el tratamiento.

2026-02-09 Médico divino

In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan examines three critical players in our spiritual life: the intellect, will, and heart. He offers a view of our life as a “journey back home,” relating the perilous journey in Homer’s Odyssey as a way of understanding the dangers confronting the Christian life in the modern world.“What a shame it would be,” he says, “to allow our day, our life, to be shipwrecked by the sirens of YouTube, a Netflix series, or Tik Tok.” Ultimately, Odysseus and his crew made it home because they knew the sirens were a “deadly menace,” and they did everything in their power to overcome them.If we form our intellect, will, and heart, giving each faculty its proper place, we too will overcome the obstacles that assail us on our journey Home. And we must totally commit to our destination: with all the power of our intellect, the strength of our will, and the passion of our heart. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Heading-Home-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>

Heading Home

26-12-24 Saint Stephen (FD)

Si tuviera que contestar a la pregunta, ¿quién es hoy y ahora para mí Jesús de Nazaret? Ojalá respondiéramos con san Pablo: mi plenitud. En Él encuentro cuanto necesito: es mi Maestro, mi Médico, mi Medicina, mi Salvador, el Sumo Sacerdote que intercede por mí, el Pastor que me conduce y los pastos que me alimentan. En él encuentro todo, pues en Él reside la plenitud de la divinidad corporalmente.

2024-04-24 Jesús es mi plenitud

Entrando al Adviento tenemos que “cambiar de chip”. Si veníamos con el espíritu configurado por el tiempo ordinario, ahora hemos de buscar la gracia del anhelo del Señor. “Ven, Señor, rey de justicia y de paz”, repiten los salmos de esta época. Mi presente se construye sobre el futuro. “Cantemos al Señor, que viene a renovar el mundo”. Espera alegre y esperanzada.

2025-12-01 Adviento: esperanza y amor

Noviembre es un mes escatológico: comienza con los fieles difuntos y termina poniéndonos ante los acontecimientos del fin del mundo. Pero la culminación es una fiesta de esperanza y alegría: la Solemnidad de Cristo Rey. Llama la atención que la liturgia de esta Solemnidad traiga a colación la cruz: y es porque Jesús es un Rey crucificado. La insignia de este reinado es la Cruz, y tiene palabras clave: austeridad, mortificación, pobreza, sobriedad, templanza, desprendimiento…

2025-11-20 Cristo, Rey crucificado.

San Josemaría invitaba a moverse por la vida con ideas madre: pocas, pero de las que se derivan muchas otras. Una de esas es la que recoge san Juan en dos momentos de su primera carta: Dios es amor. Más allá de que Dios actúe por amor o se manifieste amoroso, la revelación consiste en descubrirnos que la misma esencia de Dios es el amor. Y de ahí podremos vivir el confiado abandono.

2025-04-25 Idea madre: Dios es amor

Los contemporáneos de Jesús que se abrieron a su mensaje supieron que ya había llegado la hora y no tenían que esperar nada más. Nosotros tampoco hemos de esperar nada, porque en Jesús tenemos la solución a todas las ansias del corazón. Lo oímos, lo tocamos en la Eucaristía, lo vemos en la contemplación, como enseñó san Josemaría en la Legación de Honduras.

2025-10-17 Oír, ver, tocar a Jesús.

El papa Benedicto explicó que eligió ese nombra para su pontificado en atención al patrono de Europa, san Benito de Nursia. Este gran santo insistía en no anteponer nada al amor de Cristo. Explorar esa invitación variando la preposición: nada se antepone al amor que Cristo me tiene a mí porque nada es más gozoso, y nada debe anteponerse al amor que yo le debo dar a Cristo.

2026-01-22 Vive para el amor de Cristo

A meditation by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Lyncroft centre in Toronto, preached on August 2, 2025, on the invitation to contemplation. We start with the scene of the transfiguration on Mount Tabor, where Peter is so captivated that he says: It is good that we are here. (Mark 9, 5)Domine, bonum est nos hic esse.What is the light that we must see to be dazzled in our contemplation of the divine?Music: Original track by Michael Lee of Toronto.Thumbnail: Carl Heinrich Boch - Transfiguration of Jesus, 1872, Frederiksborg Castle in Denmark.

I'm Dazzled, Lord

La alabanza de Isabel a María -bienaventurada tú que has creído- resulta muy ilustrativa: los frutos de la redención vendrán por el corazón abierto a la revelación de Dios. Veamos a Dios con los ojos abiertos y con los ojos cerrados, descubriéndolo en cada realidad. Si la fe es nuestro modo de vida, estaremos inmersos en ese mundo que escapa a los sentidos pero que es el único permanente.

2025-12-21 Que tu fe lo abarque todo

The Feat of Corpus Christi highlights the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.  What a great mystery of confidence, consolation and closeness.  Knowing that Jesus is truly present should change our way of thinking about him and of relating to him.  Above all in communion, the real presence brings us into vital contact with Our Lord. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

Corpus Christi: Believing that He is Here

In our meditation of the week:  Fr. Peter Armenio inspires our prayer this Easter season reminding us that the heart of our calling as Christians is to always be credible witnesses to the Resurrection by making the living Jesus real in the world. But how do make the Resurrection of Jesus credible today? If we&apos;re going to announce the Resurrection, like our early Christian brothers and sisters, we have to aim for intimate union with Christ. As Fr. Peter explains, we have to &quot;constrain Jesus to stay with us&quot; like the disciples on the way to Emmaus. And, as St. Josemaria said, &quot;Christ is passing by, don&apos;t let him go. Be attentive to him when he&apos;s coming by.&quot; We must constrain Jesus, therefore, with our desire to be with him, to speak with him, and to implement his words. We must recognize him in the breaking of the bread and be centered on the Eucharistic table; we must learn to listen and talk to Jesus through Scripture; and we must be faithful to our designated time of prayer. Prayer is very much in the first place to making the Resurrection credible. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Making-the-Resurrection-Credible-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/making-the-resurrection-credible/'>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>

Making the Resurrection Credible

The Resurrection of Christ is the most important event in history. Not just the history of humankind, but the personal history of every woman and man. Father Timothy Uhen reflects on the individual and social consequences of Christ's victory over death.

Transformative Faith in the Resurrection

Los amigos del paralítico lo conducen hasta Jesús, superando múltiples obstáculos. Nos dan ejemplo de celo apostólico. Al final, todo consiste en colaborar para que las almas se pongan frente a frente con el Señor. Ser apóstol supone haber tenido la experiencia del cara a cara con Cristo.

2024-01-24 Encuentros cara a cara

Al final acabamos por darnos cuenta de que no hacían falta tantas palabras. Basta una sola palabra: Jesús. En realidad, basta con sentarnos a sus pies, como María de Betania y llenarnos de su Persona. Una unión que acabe siendo mayor a la unión que cada uno tiene consigo mismo. La centralidad de Jesucristo acabará significando que Él sea todo en todos.

2024-08-16 Identidad con Jesús

Aprovechamos las fiestas de los santos: hoy celebramos a la depositaria de las revelaciones del Corazón de Jesús, santa Margarita María Alacoque. Pero también consideramos a una santa que recibió grandes revelaciones de Jesús: santa Teresa de Ávila. Aprender a descifrar los signos que quiso descubrirnos Jesús.

2025-10-16 Contemplar el Corazón de Jesús

19-08-26 Grateful for Work (JG)

Lo que lleva a la plenitud de vida de cualquier hombre es el cumplimiento de la voluntad de Dios. Para eso, es preciso oír, y para oír debemos abrir el corazón a la fe. A Dios le agrada nuestra obediencia interior, el deseo de aceptar plenamente su querer. San José es modelo en el cumplimiento de la voluntad de Dios sin rechistar, es decir, sin emitir ni una palabra, ni un sonido de resistencia a ese querer.

2025-08-12 Cumple sin chistar la voluntad de Dios

En la parábola del sembrador nos hace notar Jesús que la semilla es lanzada a voleo, es decir, que la concesión de sus gracias es continua. En el primer lugar donde se lanza la semilla se advierte el riesgo de estar distraídos, y entonces el enemigo impunemente se la roba. Permanezcamos atentos a la voz interior en la que se percibe la comunicación divina. Evitemos la dispersión y el ruido.

2026-07-22 Atiende a cada gracia

¡Qué fácil es perder el sentido último de cuanto hacemos! Cada día habríamos de tener esa idea fundamental: en este día debo crecer en el amor. El primer mandamiento de la ley de Dios es absoluto, sin subterfugios. Es el amor el que le da sentido a cada uno de mis actos: cuidar, por tanto, los enemigos que causan el olvido: la inconsideración, el egoísmo…

2025-03-17 No olvides el amor

Jesus heals ten lepers but only one comes back to thank him.  An image of sin, their leprosy is cured when they are on the way to see &quot;the priests.&quot;  Jesus appreciates the gratitude of the Samaritan who returned after being cured and finds fault with the other nine.  Constant gratitude is a way of loving our Lord and of assuring our own increase in saving faith.

Lessons from Lepers: Gratitude and Contrition

A meditation by Fr. Eric Nicolai on rest, preached at Lyncroft centre, Toronto, on July 2, 2023.
Mark 6, 30-32: &quot;The apostles came back to Jesus. They told him all they had done and taught. Jesus said to them, `Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while.&#39; Many people were coming and going. They could not even eat. So they went away in a boat to a lonely place by themselves.&quot;
This articulates the promise of Jesus. Matt 11, 28: “Come to me all you who are weary and I will give you rest”.
It was important that they not stay with his teaching superficially, or remain on the surface. He wanted them deeply formed. To make the Good News truly deeply integrated. They will later have to transmit it to others.  They have to be good transmission lines. What really is the significance of rest? Are we habitually resting? And do we do it well in a way that restores us truly? When burnout is so prevalent, we need to see the true meaning of rest and leisure, and examine its relation to work.
 
Music: Carlos Gardel, Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink
Thumbnail: Masaccio The Tribute Money, 1424, Brancacci Chapel, Florence.

True Meaning of Rest

Al volver nuestra mirada al pesebre, advertimos la presencia del buey y la mula. Ellos reconocen a su Señor, y no así el mundo, que lo rechaza pecando. El hombre, por la hybris, se coloca en lugar de Dios, cerrándole por el pecado la invitación al amor. Abrámonos por la contrición reconociendo nuestros pecados.

2025-12-29 El buey y la mula

¿Por qué la gente que veía al santo Cura de Ars decía que veía a Dios? Porque tenía mucha gracia santificante. ¿Qué decir entonces de María, la llena de gracia? La gracia es la santidad, es la filiación divina, es la vida eterna. Un regalo del todo excepcional, que hemos de valorar y acrecentar. Animemos a los demás a vivir siempre en gracia y a cuidarla.

2025-07-14 El día de la gracia

As we begin the holy season of Lent, Fr Javier del Castillo invites us in this meditation for Ash Wednesday to reflect on the readings and Gospel of today’s Mass and on the works we are called to fulfill during this time for our conversion: fasting, praying and almsgiving.“Behold, now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” (2 Cor 6:2) Father Javier explains that “now is the time to convert and to turn to the Lord.. [He gives us] an entire season of the liturgical year characterized by acts and symbols of penance… A time of salvation is a time of conversion [during which] we can actually repent from our actions, from our sins…” “We can say, ‘I do not wish to be identified with that action of mine. I wish I had never done it. In fact, I will try to undo it as best as I can with subsequent actions.’ That is what we want to do during Lent as we begin this acceptable time for conversion… To purify ourselves and identify ourselves with our Lord’s suffering… And when we see the great mercy that has been bestowed upon us we want to voluntarily participate a little bit in that, even though our meager efforts will never be able to match our Lord’s love for us and His power to redeem us.” Pointing to the ways that our Lord calls us to pray, fast, and give alms, this meditation helps us to see how these works are ultimately a participation in life and mission of Jesus Christ. And that these works can be fulfilled by doing our everyday duties with love as well as by offering up our food and drink, setting a time for prayer, going to Mass during the week, praying the Rosary— works and penances that fit our schedules like a glove as well as prayer that keeps us closely united to our Lord. 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>

Ash Wednesday (2015)

Jesús es el Hijo muy amado del Padre. Y lo es también de todas las criaturas espirituales, ángeles y hombres. Hemos sido creados para amarlo, y para eso vamos a la oración, a buscar sus pensamientos y a dejarle los nuestros. La humildad me permite cambiar mis formas propias para adquirir las de Cristo.

2025-04-30 El Amado del Padre

Un hijo de Dios actúa como su Padre. ¿Y cómo actúa Dios? Amando, amando siempre, pues esa es su esencia. No comprendemos el alcance de la afirmación “Dios es amor”, pero hemos de convencernos de que todo lo que existe es una manifestación de su amor, y estamos invitados a obrar siempre movidos por el amor.

2026-03-18 Inmersos en el Amor de Dios

This meditation was preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai to a group of priests at St. Paul the Apostle parish in Toronto on June 11, 2024.
Today is the feast of the apostle St. Barnabas. Who was Barnabas? Acts says he spoke boldly, and effectively, and defended St. Paul. We imagine them both speaking with lots of self-confidence. Saint Josemaria dreamt about the responsibility of ordinary Christians in the world playing their role of being salt and light. Matt 5, 13-16: “You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world.

Growing in Self Confidence as Apostles

¿Qué evoca en nosotros el domingo? ¿Lo mismo que al mundo, es decir, un día orientado al esparcimiento? Recordemos su estrecha relación con el núcleo mismo del misterio cristiano: Jesús resucitado, vivo, a quien hemos de encontrar. Y la tranquilidad del domingo ayuda especialmente. San Josemaría invitaba: “¡Cristo, quién te viera para quedar herido de amor por ti!” Se esconde para que los busquemos con mayor ardor.

2024-01-21 El domingo con el Resucitado

Jesús advierte el ansia de los invitados a una boda para ocupar los primeros puestos. Indica que procedamos al revés, para que en la vida eterna tengamos los lugares principales. El que se ensalza será humillado. Revisemos indicios de falta de humildad, como el protagonismo, la envidia y los juicios críticos.

2026-02-03 Humildad vs protagonismo

A meditation by Father Timothy Uhen.

Not My Will but Yours Be Done

08-07-25 Wresting Match (MC)

As we celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (December 8th), Fr Javier del Castillo&apos;s homily, “Stella Matutina&quot;, helps us to reflect on the meaning of this special title of our Lady, &quot;Morning Star&quot;, and how Mary “entrusted herself entirely to God, and in this we can hope to imitate her on our way to holiness.” “Stella Matutina” (Morning Star) is a homily by Fr Javier del Castillo given on the Eve of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception at St. Mary of the Angels Church in Chicago, Illinois (USA) in 2010.  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>

"Stella Matutina"

Doug shares 6 things that happily married men do well. He also gives dating advice and unpacks the four types of love. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Steve - My wife doesn&rsquo;t feel an emotional connection. What should I do? (30:50)</li> <li>Mary - Start by complimenting your spouse and kiss each other for 10 seconds and dance in front of your family. (47:00)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: &nbsp; 6 things happily married men do well <ol> <li>You listen to her</li> <li>You express appreciation often</li> <li>You prioritize quality time with her</li> <li>He champions her dreams and supports her growth</li> <li>He takes responsibility and repairs the damage early</li> <li>He embraces evolution and adapts together</li> </ol> &nbsp; Ways to show you are listening <ol> <li>Repeat the heart of what she says</li> <li>Ask questions with genuine curiosity</li> <li>You do not immediately defend yourself</li> <li>Your body language says you are present</li> <li>You respond to the emotion, not just the facts</li> <li>You remember what matters later</li> </ol>

What Happily Married Men Do Well

Live from the National Eucharistic Congress from Indianapolis: <ul> <li>Chant with Joe Daly from Floriani, Revitalizing Sacred Music in America</li> <li>Mike Aqualina from Scepter Publishers: Catholic Books for Spiritual Growth</li> <li>Katie Hinderer from Rosebud Social</li> <li>Eucharistic Marriage</li> </ul>

Sacred Music and Eucharistic Marriage

Luego de los años, podemos contabilizar por miles las Misas en las que hemos participado. Es un tesoro que queda para la eternidad. Pero, al mismo tiempo, experimentamos la necesidad de profundizar en ella, porque es un misterio insondable. Si quisiéramos abarcar el Universo, nuestra pretensión sería vana. La Misa es un Misterio mayor, y toda preparación para ella será necesaria.

2025-04-04 El misterio de la Misa nos rebasa

Our anger in itself is not sinful, but we run the risk of offending God if we allow our anger to make us act out of selfish motives. As Christians, we are called to exercise prudence and meekness and to accept setbacks peacefully.
A meditation given by Fr. Timothy Uhen.

Don’t Let the Sun Go Down On Your Anger

Doug and Monica discuss the childhood trait most predictive of adult success and how parents can nurture it in their kids. They also explore the dangers of smartphones, modeling virtue, and guiding children with honesty. They also reflect on Charlie Kirk&rsquo;s recent political assassination and the tragedy of 9/11. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Carlos &ndash; My daughter has left the Church and wants to marry a non-Catholic outside of it. Should we attend the wedding, and is it okay to spend time with them afterward? (36:56)</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>

How to Predict Your Child’s Success

The image of our Lord as Good Shepherd is a challenging one.   It means that we Christians are sheep.  Our pride and self-sufficiency naturally bristle at this image.  Only with deep humility, and contemplating Jesus the Lamb of God, can we embrace being sheep and having a Shepherd.

Good Shepherd, Good Sheep [Rebroadcast]

21-05-26 Won, and One (MRS)

18-04-26 "It is I... Do Not Be Afraid" (NS)

What does the Transfiguration have to say to us during Lent? A meditation by Fr Patrick Gorevan for the second sunday in Lent

17. The Transfiguration

Serenar nuestro interior para atender a Jesús. Estamos hoy con Él en la negación de Judas, mirándolo, tal como invita el profeta Isaías: “Miren a mi Siervo a quien sostengo, mi elegido, en quien me complazco…”. Dios Padre quiere que tengamos siempre presente a su Hijo. Podemos preguntarnos: Y a mí, ¿todo me lo recuerda? Me servirán las normas de piedad, de modo especial las normas de siempre. Todo ha de recordarnos al Amado del Padre.

2025-04-16 Miércoles Santo: mirar a Cristo

Doug reads a letter by Alice Von Hildebrand from her book&nbsp;By Love Refined. In this letter, Alice gives advice on deepening friendships. Doug also unpacks things you should know if you decide to go to marriage therapy. He discusses the importance of gratitude and how it helps keep the focus on the positive. RESOURCES: By Love Refined https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOor69zErlUqf6RP4-3ZxPfKt8rMqVKFZpPQcjXBuSZBKh6q0taWX &nbsp; Marriage Unhindered https://www.marriageunhindered.com/ Happy Marriage for Life https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/ Catholic Therapists https://www.catholictherapists.com/ &nbsp;

Having an attitude of gratitude

Doug continues to explore the idea of building a strong foundation of communication. Plus: Day 2 of the novena to Mary, Mother of Fairest Love. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Ron - I am the one in the relationship who tends to think my wife is doing bad things. I assume the worst. Would it be better to not respond at all if she is giving me these signals? (34:15)</li> </ul>

Building a Foundation of Communication (Part 2)

Do you or your child struggle with anxiety or scrupulosity? Is it having a negative effect on you or your marriage? Dr. Johann D&rsquo;Souza joins Doug to discuss what scrupulosity is, is not and how to treat it. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Barbara - I have had OCD all of my life. What helps me is the Surrender prayer Which I pray every day. Also what helps me are the first three steps of 12 steps program. (20:56)</li> <li>Paul - I'm emotionally abusive toward my wife and need direction about that. (29:49)</li> <li>Chris - I'm dealing with my OCD and scrupulosity. As far as exposure therapy goes, is it a daily practice or a certain amount of time to put in? (39:16)</li> <li>John - How can a man avoid overworking when he wants to provide for his family? (45:36)</li> <li>Katherine - I have OCD. I found a program and started going to the meetings there on the phone and they're based on AA. What do you think about that? (48:45)</li> </ul> Resources: Values First Therapy <a href="https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.com/">https://www.valuesfirsttherapy.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>

Overcoming scrupulosity and anxiety

25-01-26 Called to be Light (MM)

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation in ernescliff College on July 11, 2025, the feast of Saint Benedict of Nursia. The Lord sent out the apostles, his ambassadors, he sent them out, telling them to heal, to resurrect the dead. That they should bring their peace upon the houses they visit. Your peace will fall upon them.

Lord, Use Me as a Torch to give Light

On 23 August 1982, Pope St John Paul II announced his decision to erect Opus Dei as a Personal Prelature. It was a decision preceded by much prayer. The anniversary reminds us of the great value of a good stubbornness when it comes to prayer of petition. The virtue of stubbornness is also important in our effects to grow, with the help of God&#39;s grace, in holiness, that is in love of God and others. A meditation by Fr Tom Dowd.

27. Persevering in prayer

How can we move beyond ourselves to recognize and respond to what Christ is asking of us? In this meditation, Fr. John Meyer reflects on Jesus&#39; encounter with the Samaritan woman at Jacob&#39;s well as an invitation to recognize our deepest thirst for God, receive the grace of the Holy Spirit, and trust Christ even when we cannot understand His providence. He warns against becoming trapped in self-validation and emphasizes that prayer is not only about listening for what God will tell us, but also about asking what He wants from us and surrendering our lives to His will. The meditation ultimately points toward a practical Christian life centered on serving others, cultivating friendship, witnessing to Christ, and allowing our personal encounter with Him to transform us into apostles.

Thirsting for Christ and Living His Will

Lo importante es lograr el conocimiento del Señor Jesucristo. Y las personas se conocen personalmente, observando sus gestos y palabras. De Jesús aprendemos la coherencia: no pide nada que Él no viva, a diferencia de los escribas y fariseos. Dice que seamos humildes y da ejemplo de esa virtud. Pide vigilar y orar, y Él se levanta de madrugada. En el conocimiento de Jesús se nos abren panoramas cuando unimos, a sus palabras, sus acciones.

2025-05-27 Conoce a Jesús en sus hechos

San Pablo se sentía indigno de predicar la riqueza incalculable que hay en el Corazón de Cristo. Y nos invita a experimentar el amor manifestado en el Sagrado Corazón. El simbolismo del corazón es el más expresivo de los símbolos. Sepamos interpretarlo y, sobre todo, experimentarlo. ¡Cómo reposaremos cuando aprendamos a meternos en el Corazón de Jesús y a descansar en él!

2024-11-13 Métete en el Corazón de Jesús

San Ambrosio habla de tener el alma de María, el espíritu de María. Hermosa aspiración: buscar nuestro parecido a María y seremos el regocijo de Dios. Como todo niño, nuestra Madre no solo nos engendra a la vida divina, sino también nos forma en Ella. Si somos dóciles y buscamos la constante educación mariana, nos iremos pareciendo más y más a María.

2025-10-25 Tener el espíritu de María

Si el soldado romano vio a Jesús ya muerto, ¿por qué le clavó la lanza en el costado? Para que, de acuerdo con la profecía de Zacarías, pudiéramos “mirar al que traspasaron”. La revelación del Sagrado Corazón es “la cúspide del cristianismo, y aun del mundo” (Benedicto XVI). Sintámonos muy afortunados de conocer la revelación de un Dios que es todo amor.

2025-04-12 Cúspide de la revelación es el Sagrado Corazón

One of those central untouched aspects of the spirit of Opus Dei turns around friendship: our surrounded by friends, how we deepen in them, experience them, encourage our friends, get help from them. The Beatles used to say I Get By with A little Help from my Friends. It was written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, released on their album Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band in 1967.
How painful that must have been when some disciples stopped going with him, after the discourse of the bread of Life in John 6. These were not simply followers that had accepted his ideas, they were his friends. They could have disagreed with what he said, but stayed as his faithful friends. Things would eventually fall into place. Yet then some left.
John 6, 61: "Aware that His disciples were grumbling about this teaching, Jesus asked them, “Does this offend you? &nbsp;Then what will happen if you see the Son of Man ascend to where He was before?
Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Copper Ridge Conference Center in Britannia Beach, July 31, 2022.
Music: Beatles, With A Little Help From My Friends (Remastered 2009) · The Beatles, Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band ℗ 2009 Calderstone Productions Limited (a division of Universal Music Group)
Released on: 1967-06-01 Producer: George Martin. Composer &nbsp;Lyricist: John Lennon. Composer &nbsp;Lyricist: Paul McCartney
Music at beginning and end: Guitar arranged by Bert Alink, Mossy Garden.
Thumbnail: Christ Calling His First Disciples, by <a href="https://artuk.org/discover/artists/brenner-adam-18001891">Adam Brenner (1800–1891)</a> from <a href="https://artuk.org/visit/venues/leicester-museum-art-gallery-3361">Leicester Museum &amp; Art Gallery</a>
For more meditations: https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos

How are my Friendships Going?

In this week&apos;s Gospel, Jesus cures a leper who tells him, &quot;If you will, you can make me clean.&quot;  In confession, Jesus always wills to cleanse us of sin.  These last days before Lent are a great time to pray about the conversion from sin that God is asking of us. <a href='https://comeawaybyyourselves.com'>https://comeawaybyyourselves.com</a>

"I do will it, be made clean": Jesus' Cleansing Mercy

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

Is my husband a narcissist?

Damon Owens joins Doug to discuss Communio and the work they are doing with bishops in California to strengthen marriages. &nbsp; &nbsp; Resources: Damon Owens <a href="https://flow.page/damonowens">https://flow.page/damonowens</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>

Preparing for and strengthening marriage

San Pablo asegura que, en medio de sus tribulaciones, sobreabunda de gozo. ¿Cómo puede ser eso posible? Por la revelación de la salvación a través de la Cruz. Y debemos recordarlo con frecuencia porque tendemos a minimizar la cruz que Dios nos pone en nuestras espaldas. La Iglesia crece a través del sufrimiento amado, que es identificación con el Crucificado.

2024-01-13 No olvides la Cruz

11-05-25 A Shepherd's Heart (FD)

A meditation by Fr. Eric Nicolai on the conversion of St. Paul. Preached at Lyncroft Centre, January 25, 2023.
Acts 3, 5-10: ‘I was on that journey and nearly at Damascus when about midday a bright light from heaven suddenly shone round me. I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying, “Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?” I answered: Who are you, Lord? and he said to me, “I am Jesus the Nazarene, and you are persecuting me.” The people with me saw the light but did not hear his voice as he spoke to me. I said: What am I to do, Lord? The Lord answered, “Stand up and go into Damascus, and there you will be told what you have been appointed to do.” The light had been so dazzling that I was blind and my companions had to take me by the hand; and so I came to Damascus.
Music: Bert Alink, Mossy Garden.
Thumbnail: Caravaggio, Conversion of St. Paul, 1660, in Sea Maria del Popolo, Rome.

The Conversion of Saint Paul

29.10.24 Humble Beginnings (JK)

What can Mary&rsquo;s Assumption into heaven teach us about marriage? Doug shares how sacramental marriage is a preparation for perfect union with God in heaven which Our Lady now enjoys. PLUS: A celebration of everything that is good about marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Ray - Let's say you have a spouse and you were to meet another person, better than the spouse you have... how would God look at you, or is that the devil? (8:33)</li> <li>Raul and Marilyn - I want to brag about my wife. We have been married nearly 37 years, and she is my saint. Christ has been right there from the beginning when we left the alter. (13:11)</li> <li>Jessica - Doug has a lot to do with my marriage being at a positive place right now. I emailed him, and I have been listening to the show for a while, and it has helped me change the perspective I have about marriage. (19:42)</li> <li>Helen - I've been married for 40 years. It has been very hard at times, and we have 5 children. With Relevant Radio for the past 5 years, we have grown together through prayer. (22:54)</li> <li>Vito - I was married for over 66 years before my wife passed away. We were together for 83 years and lived in the same house. She lived on the first floor, and I lived on the second floor. It was an exceptional marriage because we had the Lord in our marriage. (36:12)</li> <li>Len - I was married 44 years ago today on the Feast Day of the Assumption! (42:26)</li> <li>Monica - I thought I was married to the best man in the whole world, until I heard Vito. I did marry the best person. He is my cross and he is my gift. (48:36)</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>

Celebrating Mary Assumed into Heaven

¿Obstáculos para vivir mejor la Santa Misa? Sin duda que la rutina: aquello que se hace cotidianamente y que apenas tiene mínimas variaciones corre ese peligro. ¿Cómo conjurarlo? Con un amor nuevo y con una fe encendida con detalles. Aprendamos de los niños, que cada día reinventan la existencia.