Doug unpacks common reasons why people don’t go to therapy including the expense, and the time commitment. He explains how the time and money involved in a divorce far outweigh the time and cost of therapy. Doug shares 5 steps for bringing your spouse to therapy. Plus: The Friday Rant!   Resources:   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>   Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Get Thee to Therapy

Doug reads a letter by Alice Von Hildebrand from her book: By Love Refined. In this letter, Alice discusses sexual intimacy in marriage and emphasizes how pleasure is the reward but not the intent. The intent is the union of souls which results in joy, transcending sexual pleasure. Doug unpacks the importance of emotional intimacy coming before physical intimacy in marriage   Resources:   By Love Refined <a href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOoqO3lJMj2FF_pWgyWOi3sgxiatKYn1LayKZQIHEOg34FnEkgugd">https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/?srsltid=AfmBOoqO3lJMj2FF_pWgyWOi3sgxiatKYn1LayKZQIHEOg34FnEkgugd</a> Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Growing in Intimacy

Behold, I make all things new. Revelation21:5¬†
It does us all good to refresh, renew, and rediscover what it means to be human, to be a child of God. In Home Again by Fr. John Henry Hanson, he desires to lead you "home" through a prayerful revitalization of your faith in God's plan for you‚Äîyour story‚Äîby recalling its incredible beauty and depth. He reminds you that your identity as a Christian is strengthened through the sacraments‚Äîgifts of the Church that accompany and enrich you through life.¬†
"Change without grace, renovation without interior renewal, is spiritually worthless. The thing remodeled, so to speak, remains what it always was. The most important kind of regeneration isn't outward or skin-deep but takes places in the hidden depths of the soul."¬†
Allow yourself to be reminded that God is a lover whose very desires for you will lead you directly to fulfillment and everlasting joy. The author hopes for you to live the resounding cry: 
"My story must flow from him, and return to him."

Home Again

Doug unpacks men&rsquo;s emotional needs in relationships including respect, acceptance, trust, affection, and words of affirmation. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Edward - I think men's emotional needs are fulfilled with physical intimacy. (9:30)</li> <li>Mary Alice - What do you do when your husband is bragging about you in public, but not at home. There's verbal abuse, almost like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. (19:51)</li> <li>Jack - I'm dealing with an adult son who&rsquo;s 30 years old and his fianc&eacute; was criticizing him in front of my daughter, her boyfriend and my ex. What do you think? (24:39)</li> <li>Marcel - If couples are not following what Doug is saying about intimacy, trust, and affection, then it's not a marriage, and you have a real problem. (33:29)</li> <li>Susan - You don't get to use the excuse of past experiences as a get out of jail free card. (39:03)</li> <li>Regina - My husband is very odd and he gets angry with me when I say good things about him. He thinks I lie, and then he tells the kids I'm lying. (42:20)</li> </ul>

Men’s Emotional Needs

A meditation on fear, preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai, at Kintore College, Oct 14, 2022.
Luke 12:1-7: The people had gathered in their thousands so that they were treading on one another. And Jesus began to speak, first of all to his disciples. ‘Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees – that is, their hypocrisy. (...) ‘To you my friends I say: Do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. I will tell you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has the power to cast into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. Can you not buy five sparrows for two pennies? And yet not one is forgotten in God’s sight. Every hair on your head has been counted. There is no need to be afraid: you are worth more than hundreds of sparrows.’
 
Why be aware of the Pharisees? They knew the law. They were experts. Why? Because it seems a common conclusion that if someone knows the law, and is not truly affected by it, then the law must be to blame. It must not really have the power to transform or to change someone. Yet the Lord relies on our freedom. It is true now as well. Many lapsed Catholics will blame some priest or some religious person’s lack of integrity to justify why they don’t practice.
Music: Carlos Gardel, Soledad, arranged for guitar by Bert Alink
Thumbnail: Rembrandt, Head of Christ, circa 1648-1656, Philadelphia Museum of Art, Philadelphia. Wikicommons.
https://www.youtube.com/c/EricNicolai/videos
www.ernescliff.ca
www.opusdei.ca

Worth More than a Hundred Sparrows

Doug explores the Knights of Columbus booklet, God&rsquo;s Plan for Love and Marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Liz - I am in a marriage where my husband is not a Christian and he sees my faith as exclusive and a wedge. How do I address this? I have been married for 26 years. (21:06)</li> <li>Bobby - How do you connect with someone who is selfish? (39:27)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: God's Plan for Love and Marriage <a href="https://www.kofc.org/en/resources/cis/cis333.pdf">https://www.kofc.org/en/resources/cis/cis333.pdf</a> &nbsp; 5 Key Points <ol> <li>Self-giving love</li> <li>Original Solitude</li> <li>Original Unity</li> <li>Original nakedness</li> <li>Original shame</li> </ol>

Self-giving Love

This week, we are sharing a favorite passage from Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Interior Freedom on the importance of accepting ourselves. Here he discusses the importance of knowing we are sinners and working to become Saints.

Accepting Ourselves - Interior Freedom

Doug unpacks a letter from Alice Von Hildebrand and gives his thoughts on building a loving, lasting marriage. He shares the 5:1 ratio you need to practice to keep love alive. Doug also tackles listener questions on prenuptial agreements, finances in marriage, and gives his advice on what to do when the intimacy in marriage is gone.   By Love Refined: Letters to a Young Bride <a href="https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/">https://sophiainstitute.com/product/by-love-refined/</a>

Keeping Love Alive

On this podcast we reflect on beginning a new year and what it means to begin again. During this time of prayer, we want to ask ourselves: What can I do to make these twelve months ahead spectacular? First, we want to accelerate to the finish, which means hastening towards our goal of Heaven. This brings up the topic of strategy: How do we go about doing it? Jesus Christ shows us the way. He said to be perfect like His Heavenly Father is perfect and He gives us the gift of forgiveness of sins— the sacrament of confession. The Lord is telling us that when we begin again, when we give Him a chance to forgive us, He is filled with joy because we allow Him to exercise His mercy. As a result of the sacrament, we will reflect joy and serenity because of the marvelous gift of mercy. St. Josemaria called it the sacrament of joy because it guarantees our turning back to God and restores our divine friendship with Him. This reflection should inspire us to make the resolution to do whatever it takes to go to confession regularly. It should also inspire us to ask Our Lord to help us find the right time and way to bring up the topic of “beginning again” among our friends and coworkers, especially a friend who is hurting. We want to be like the faithful friends who carried the paralytic man to Jesus; his sins were forgiven and he was brought to life (Mark 2:1-12). We want to pray about that friend (or friends) during the coming weeks, knowing that our friends will never forget us for having helped restore them to life. Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Restoring Back to Life

Today's spiritual reading comes from our best-selling author, Fr. Jacques Philippe's book Fire and Light: Learning to Receive the Gift of God.

When I Am Weak, Then I Am Strong - Fire and Light

Like¬†The Way,¬†Furrow¬†is the fruit of St. Josemar√≠a's rich interior life and extensive experience as a pastor. Aphoristic and perfect for meditation, Furrow was written in order to encourage and ease personal prayer. These 1000 points for spiritual reflection are directed toward the whole human person: body and soul, nature and grace. With the skillful hand of an experienced and holy priest, St. Josemar√≠a interweaves the divine and human and helps you see how to bring them into harmony in your own life.

Furrow (Mini Edition)

In this episode, Rich Meyer gives dads of teenagers practical suggestions for managing technology in the home.


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

Episode 20: Teens and Technology

A Spiritual Retreat on St. Joseph, Father and Protector guides us on a prayerful reflection on St. Joseph as our father and protector, and his role in our salvation. On this retreat, we are guided to contemplate the life of St. Joseph, his virtues and zeal, and take a contemplative look at our own lives. St. Joseph teaches us– despite our weaknesses, doubts, frailty, and sinfulness– how to see all the things of our lives as having a higher purpose and he helps us to desire and grow in virtue in all the circumstances of our lives. With St. Joseph as our father and protector, we are able to see our lives as being a part of a larger guided providence and not as a random series of events. A Spiritual Retreat on St. Joseph, Father and Protector is a collection of five meditations preached by Rev. John Henry Hanson, O. Praem., a Norbertine priest of St Michael’s Abbey in Silverado, California and contributor to the St. Josemaria Institute. Listen to the full retreat for free online: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/product/a-spiritual-retreat-on-saint-joseph-father-and-protector/'>download today!</a>  Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Part One | Hearts & Hands

What does Christ’s teaching by the Sea of Galilee, surrounded by crowds, teach us about the waves that rise up in our lives and our need to keep our eyes on Christ?In this podcast, Fr. Donncha invites us to meditate upon the Gospel scene of Christ along the Sea of Galilee in which he shows his desire to enter into our lives to dwell in constant communion, conversation, and love with us. He explains that “Christ seeks us out, enters into our ordinary life, and fills the texture of ordinariness with the sublime beauty of his presence.” Therefore, through the divine grace of Christ, we can see our life which was once barren be transformed into something holy and divine. As St. Josemaria explains: “Your boat – your talents, your hopes, your achievements – is worth nothing whatsoever, unless you leave it in Christ’s hands, allowing him the freedom to come aboard” (Friends of God, no. 21).[ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Transcript-In-Christs-Boat.pdf'>Transcript</a> ] Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

In Christ's Boat

In today’s podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the charity of God as “fuel” that enables us to seek holiness in the ordinary moments of everyday life. Our receptivity to God’s grace increases as we continue to strengthen our relationship with him through prayer and the sacraments. The grace we receive fills our life and will overflow into our relationships with one another, leading those we encounter closer to Christ. As St. Josemaria explains: “Charity is not something we ourselves build up. It invades us along with God’s grace, ‘because he has loved us first’. We would do well to fill, to saturate ourselves with this most beautiful truth: ‘If we are able to love God, it is because we have been loved by God.’ Ask God boldly for this treasure, for the supernatural virtue of charity, so that you may practice it even in the smallest details” (Friends of God, no. 229). Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Refueling for Charity

Peter McFadden joins Doug to share how Pope St. John II influenced his desire to help couples prepare for marriage. Peter has helped over 8,000 couples, and together with Doug gives advice to callers on dating, engagement, and struggling marriages.   Resources mentioned:   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Marriage Fun 101 <a href="https://marriagefun101.com/">https://marriagefun101.com/</a>   Hold Me Tight <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Me-Tight-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/031611300X/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sr0jz0P3n_IyP1iRawxh6OKe8PsB8GTcJmESiOv4SQNOLohXnDHUhJKL2AoCpGCYOJRRbIJhOhB09OujSsiza_LmghSViUhSEst5KmOSfZh-w8W4QX87IkQPgoY-kHfKCIRKRhJg8lYrio2ee6_9_VL4R7q04uE0956FuapyS1-0M_10mMxcdaC6g_CB2ZECj1vouZsPCLrTbcxPYX4Qa4ukLaOVQeiikKuqKWL0y20.7IKglzNYCWoEykaa7lY848pPwvxr7wgAkkBvl6JyHic&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;hvadid=580696636759&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9021457&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=3080454004963184526&amp;hvtargid=kwd-6829276181&amp;hydadcr=22565_13493330&amp;keywords=hold+me+tight+sue+johnson&amp;qid=1729032830&amp;sr=8-1">https://www.amazon.com/Hold-Me-Tight-Conversations-Lifetime/dp/031611300X/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sr0jz0P3n_IyP1iRawxh6OKe8PsB8GTcJmESiOv4SQNOLohXnDHUhJKL2AoCpGCYOJRRbIJhOhB09OujSsiza_LmghSViUhSEst5KmOSfZh-w8W4QX87IkQPgoY-kHfKCIRKRhJg8lYrio2ee6_9_VL4R7q04uE0956FuapyS1-0M_10mMxcdaC6g_CB2ZECj1vouZsPCLrTbcxPYX4Qa4ukLaOVQeiikKuqKWL0y20.7IKglzNYCWoEykaa7lY848pPwvxr7wgAkkBvl6JyHic&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;hvadid=580696636759&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9021457&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=3080454004963184526&amp;hvtargid=kwd-6829276181&amp;hydadcr=22565_13493330&amp;keywords=hold+me+tight+sue+johnson&amp;qid=1729032830&amp;sr=8-1</a>

Strong Communication Builds Strong Marriages

Dr. Mario Sacasa joins Doug to share tips for how to date well. They discuss the proper age for children to start dating, and how to instill virtue in your children so they can exercise the virtue when the time comes for them to date. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - I have a 17-year-old son who wants to a date a 16-year-old. I'm against it, but he has a driver's license. I don't want them to be alone. What should I do? (12:51)</li> <li>Joe - My daughter is 16-years-old and goes to a Catholic School. I found out a boy likes her and I noticed that he's a Mormon. She's never had a boyfriend before. Should I squash the relationship? (24:08)</li> <li>Susan - I have a 17-year-old son and his girlfriend has been fighting with my son&rsquo;s sisters and I'm trying to get through to him. What should I do? (28:53)</li> <li>Will - I'm 23 years old. When is someone ready to date? I have dated in the past and I'm out of college, but life has been a little crazy. (38:26)</li> <li>Florence - I have a college student and she started dating for the first time. I don't know how to talk to her because she doesn't want to share much about her boyfriend. I'm a little nervous. What should I do? (41:16)</li> </ul> Resources: Dr. Mario Sacasa <a href="https://www.drmariosacasa.com/">https://www.drmariosacasa.com/</a> Relevant Radio Dad&rsquo;s Pack <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack">https://relevantradio.store/collections/merch/products/dads-pack</a> Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a>

Dating Well

Today on the podcast… Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, reflects on Christ’s last words before his Ascension and explains that in the work of evangelization no one can be ignored — “out of a hundred souls we are interested in a hundred.”  Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Bringing Christ to the Periphery

Doug shares how to recover and heal from a fight. He unpacks the 5-step process for healing which includes sharing how you felt during the fight, describing your perception of what happened during the fight, sharing what escalated the interaction for you, taking responsibility, and coming up with constructive plans. <ul> <li>Mary &amp; Joe - Just minutes ago, my husband came up to me and shared that he wants to be intimate more frequently, but I am content with things the way they are. (22:47)</li> <li>Martha - My husband and my mother are both arguing with each other and I'm in the middle. My mom lives with us. How do I deal with this? (28:40)</li> <li>Beth - I felt like the woman's perspective wasn't really heard. There are many reasons why women can't be as intimate later in life. (36:08)</li> <li>Anne - My husband died 10 years ago, but we had the problem of dealing with intimacy as well. I think it's more than just saying, 'you have to be nice, and give in'. (39:52)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> &nbsp; 5 step process for healing after a big fight <ol> <li>Share how you felt during the fight.</li> <li>Describe your perception of what happened during the fight.</li> <li>Share what escalated the interaction for you.</li> <li>Take responsibility.</li> <li>Come up with constructive plans.</li> </ol>

Healing from a fight

Doug looks at another case study from "Impossible Marriages Redeemed." When you are struggling with your spouse, how can you change your own actions instead of theirs? Plus: what do you do when your spouse is distant?

What Can You Change?

Doug responds to letters about a controlling wife and a lazy husband, reflects on the role of shared values in marriage, and considers how men can keep their identity in family life. He also takes on a heartfelt question from a wife supporting her husband through parenting challenges and financial stress. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Bobby &ndash; After my divorce, I&rsquo;ve realized how essential it is to marry someone with the same core values. (19:53)</li> <li>Mike &ndash; Can a man keep his identity without getting lost in his wife? (27:06)</li> <li>Addison &ndash; My husband feels like a bad father because of our autistic son and money struggles. how can I best support him? (37:34)</li> <li>Doug - When it comes to giving in, the key is communicating how important an issue really is. (43:49)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: 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;

Who’s Really in Charge Here?

Doug continues his discussion on what a Narcissist is and how to love them?

Narcissism pt 2

In this podcast, we reflect on self-denial as a way to increase our faith and relationship with Christ. If we are to follow Christ, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. Self-denial allows us a certain freedom in which we can live out the Gospel message. The goal of becoming a saint takes a serious commitment, one of prayer and Eucharistic piety. We cannot let laziness get the best of us or hold us back from becoming the person we were created to be. Saint Josemaria tells us, “if you don’t deny yourself you will never be a soul of prayer” (The Way, no. 6). We need self-control to be prayerful, loving, kind, generous, and to live a life of holy purity. Living in a world where we are faced with temptation at almost every turn, self-denial and taking up our cross is of the utmost importance. We are faced with the temptation of the seven deadly sins - anger, pride, gluttony, envy, greed, lust, and sloth. In order to combat these sins, we must not put off holiness indefinitely. Paraphrasing St. Josemaria, he says, “Do it now! Now is the only shot you have. The past is gone, and the future doesn’t exist.” Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Take Up Your Cross

Dr. John Bergsma joins Doug to explore marriage and the book of Genesis. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Bill - Can you explain the part of Genesis that says 'male and female he created them'? (22:04)</li> <li>Mario - Can you clarify what Myrrh represents? (26:57)</li> <li>Alex - How does the aspect of jealousy factor into the covenant of marriage? (41:21)</li> </ul> &nbsp; &nbsp; Resources: St. Paul Center <a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/">https://stpaulcenter.com/</a> &nbsp; Dr. John Bergsma&rsquo;s books <a href="https://catholicproductions.com/collections/john-bergsma">https://catholicproductions.com/collections/john-bergsma</a>

Genesis & Marriage

Doug is joined by his guest Fr. Robert Altier to discuss his book: God’s Plan For Your Marriage. They discuss love as a gift, not a reward and unpack how suffering in marriage can be a path to holiness.     Resources:   God’s Plan for your marriage   <a href="https://godsplanforyourmarriagebook.com/">https://godsplanforyourmarriagebook.com/</a>   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Happy Marriage for Life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>   Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

God is Love

What is holding you back from seeing a marriage counselor? Doug shares reasons couples resist marriage counseling and why just about every married couple can benefit from therapy. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Deedee - I've been using my sister as my therapist and she's an Atheist. Could you recommend a Catholic group of therapists in my area? (28:38)</li> <li>Rico - My son has a baby out of wedlock. The baby&rsquo;s mom has a significant other. Should my son and the mom see a counselor? (30:32)</li> </ul> &nbsp; Resources: 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; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://catholictherapists.com/">https://catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; Catholic Psychotherapy <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/</a>

Marriage Therapy Works

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on self-denial as a path to deeper faith and freedom in Christ. As we begin Lent, we are reminded that to follow Our Lord, we must deny ourselves and take up our cross daily. Self-denial strengthens our commitment to prayer, holiness, and living the Gospel with conviction.  Fr. Peter reminds us that St. Josemaria Escriva said, &quot;If you don’t deny yourself, you will never be a soul of prayer&quot; (The Way, no. 6). In a world filled with temptation, we must cultivate self-control and embrace sacrifice. And, as St. Josemaria urges, &quot;Do it now! Now is the only shot you have. The past is gone, and the future doesn’t exist.&quot;  <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Take-Up-Your-Cross-Transcript-.pdf'>View Transcript</a>  <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/take-up-your-cross/'>Visit Show Page </a> Subscribe to our NEW Devotions channel where we share audio recordings of our popular novenas and devotions available at www.stjosemaria.org to accompany you in your time of prayer, whether at home or on the go. Click here to subscribe on <a href='https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/devotions-on-the-st-josemaria-institute-podcast/id1895870885'>Apple Podcasts</a> and <a href='https://open.spotify.com/show/1rpuXHM94Y06ouU37iIMHH?si=6508be06971e4324'>Spotify.</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! Let us know that our podcast is important to you:<ul><li>Share your favorite episodes with others and leave us a rating or review.</li><li>Stay connected with us on <a href='https://www.facebook.com/stjosemariainst/'>Facebook</a> and <a href='https://www.instagram.com/stjosemariainst/'>Instagram</a>. </li><li>Subscribe to our weekly newsletter: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a></li></ul>Also, if you enjoy the podcast, please consider helping us keep our episodes free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/subscribe/'> </a>

Doug goes to the mailbag and gives advice for people seeking a declaration of nullity. He also talks about the likelihood of divorce when a couple lives together before marriage and shares the importance of finding the right therapist. Plus: The Friday rant!   Resources:   Marriage Unhindered <a href="https://www.marriageunhindered.com/">https://www.marriageunhindered.com/</a>   Happy Marriage for life <a href="https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/">https://www.happymarriageforlife.com/</a>   Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Should you switch therapists?

Doug explores how conspiracy theories can create division and distrust in marriage and how couples can stay grounded in truth. He also answers a question about dating again after the loss of a spouse. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Jo &ndash; I am a widow who began dating again, but the relationship ended when he began discerning whether to remain single. Why would someone pull away after things were going well?</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>

Will Conspiracy Theory's Ruin a Marriage?

Do you and your spouse have a good prayer life? How do you begin to pray more with your spouse? Doug unpacks the importance of daily prayer in every marriage. He shares how prayer is a dialogue between human beings and God, it is essential in fostering a relationship with God, and in marriage prayer is a unification of the souls. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Grace - My family started praying together when we almost divorced. Our kids started praying with us as teens and are now very strong in their faith.</li> <li>Monica - We've been praying for my adult son to meet a Catholic wife, and now he's dating a Catholic girl.</li> <li>Virginia - We've been praying the rosary and chaplet for my cancer and I have been cancer free for two years.</li> <li>Kate - At what point should you just say the marriage is not going to work after offering it up?</li> </ul> Resources: Leila Miller <a href="https://www.leilamiller.net/">https://www.leilamiller.net/</a>

Prayer and the Married Life

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

We're thrilled to return to Verse 4! In this episode, Jake, Pat, and Louis delve into the intriguing theme of God's laughter in the face of human rebellion, illuminating the contrast between divine authority and human defiance. Their discussion offers vivid imagery that captures the sheer power of the divine, while also unpacking deep theological insights that reveal God’s character and sovereignty. Don't forget to like and subscribe to the podcast to ensure you stay updated with every captivating episode!

Verse 4, Part 2 - The Divine Power Play

We are in a dark world, but the light of heaven streams in like a beam of luminosity, and hope, represented by that Easter pillar of light. Fr. Eric Nicolai preaches at Lyncroft Centre in Toronto about the meaning of the Easter Candle and the words of St. Paul to the Corinthians: Death, where is thy Sting? (1 Cor 15, 55).
 Thumbnail: The Harrowing of Hell, Russian 15th century icon, St. Petersburg.
Music: A heart that knows its Jesus is living, BWV 134 - II Aria: Auf Gläubige, singet die lieblichen Lieder, open source, from museopen.org.

Easter Sunday: Death, where is Your Sting?

Matthew 25:14-30. The Parable of the talents.
The man going abroad. The servants with different talents. The one with one talents digs a hole in the ground. To the others he says good, well done, good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your master.
 priests on the need to have an adventuresome spirit regarding the gifts we have received.

What Have I done with my Talents?

Can ambition be a good thing?
This word often evokes behavior that displays pride, vanity, and disunity.
Author Thomas Joachim invites us to a holy ambition based in the Scriptures and the writings of the Saints: an ambition not for worldly honors, but the glory of God.
He summarizes like this: &ldquo;We must reverse the usual perspective of our life. We can no longer seek to fulfill our ambitions; we must seek to welcome God&rsquo;s ambitions for us. Fulfilling our own dreams is not of primary importance, but rather that God&rsquo;s dreams for us are made real in our lives.&rdquo;
Seen this way, ambition becomes an essential virtue for sanctity, and a liberating path for the great of heart. Discover the meaning of your God-given talents and accept our Lord&rsquo;s invitation implicit in his words: &ldquo;Friend, go up higher&rdquo; (Lk 14:10).

Happy the Ambitious

We’ve brought Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Doug Hinderer back to discuss marriage therapy - specifically hot to know if your marriage needs it! He walks us through 4 red flags that could indicate therapy is the next right step for your marriage, and discusses the value couples find in talking to a therapist even if nothing is seriously wrong.Resources mentions:Catholic Therapists: <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com">https://www.catholictherapists.com</a>The Gottman Institute: <a href="https://www.gottman.com">https://www.gottman.com</a>ICEEFT: <a href="http://iceeft.com">http://iceeft.com</a>