Discover

Opening

Chapter 1: Who is the Original Church?

Chapter 2: We Live as a Family

Chapter 3: We Receive These Things

Chapter 4: We Share Our Food, but Not Our Wives

Chapter 5: We Work for Your Benefit

Chapter 6: We Are Laughed At

A Rule for a Household

Other Books by James L. Papandrea

Closing

What if the Church was never meant to stay frozen in time&mdash;nor blown around by it?&nbsp;
The Original Church cuts through the noise of tradition versus trend to rediscover what Jesus actually intended when he said, "On this rock I will build my Church." The earliest Christians weren't stuck in the past, nor were they chasing relevance&mdash;they were rooted, growing, and guided by a clear purpose.&nbsp;
This book explores how the Church can develop without drifting, grow without losing its core, and how every believer can live with conviction in a world that keeps shifting.&nbsp;
The Christian faith is a compass, not a weathervane.

The Original Church (audiobook)

Statesman, scholar, husband, father, martyr &mdash; Thomas More remains one of history's most compelling witnesses to the primacy of conscience. Thomas J. McGovern traces the spiritual formation of a man who rose to the heights of power in Tudor England without ever losing sight of what mattered most. A portrait of integrity, courage, and the quiet heroism of a life lived entirely for God.

Sir Thomas More: the Making of a Saint

The virtue of purity? Who talks about that nowadays? 
This short book presents the topic to today's youth as a challenge to grow and mature into responsible and caring adults, capable of leading and helping others. The authors begin from the vantage of Jesus, who ministered to both young and old, and whose lessons are a call to holiness for us all. 
Learn why the virtue of chastity is so pivotal to healthy relationships, how to live and acquire the virtue in a natural way, and what virtues, attitudes, and practices will be key to your achieving a chaste heart, mind, and body. These include prayer, sacrifice, service to others, control over internet use, talking about one's struggles, and obtaining help in confession and spiritual direction. 
This book includes references to websites and further reading and is great as both a personal guide for young people and a teaching tool for adults.

Why Purity: Navigating the Confusing Cultural Messages

Sanctity is not improvised. St. Josemar&iacute;a Escriv&aacute; believed that the soul, like any serious endeavor, requires structure &mdash; a daily rhythm of prayer, work, and sacrifice that keeps God at the center of everything. In this booklet he lays out the practical framework of a plan of life: not a rigid schedule, but a set of anchoring habits that give each day its supernatural direction. Clear, demanding, and deeply encouraging, it is essential reading for anyone who wants their ordinary hours to count for eternity.

A Plan of Life

Prayer changes our lives. Through fruitful prayer, God freely graces us with the gifts of joy, peace, courage, and determination.
We can often find, however, that, despite our good intentions, prayer doesn't come easily. We often have obstacles in our path—distractions from the outside or our own internal weaknesses—that keep us from praying or being faithful to our Christian commitment to Love.
 Allow your heart to be guided gently by Fr. Jacques Philippe's Nine Days to Rediscover the Joy of Prayer toward a joyous prayer life that feeds your soul and revitalizes your relationship with the Lord.

Nine Days to Rediscover the Joy of Prayer

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 16)

God calls each of us by name &mdash; but do we know how to listen? Rev. Federico Suarez explores the nature of divine vocation with clarity and warmth, showing that God's call is not reserved for priests and religious but reaches every soul in the ordinary circumstances of daily life. A practical and encouraging guide for anyone seeking to discern God's will and respond with generous, wholehearted love.

When God Calls

St. Josemaria Escriva made many pilgrimages throughout his lifetime seeking opportunities to encounter God and praying for his conversion and of the whole world. Today’s podcast commemorates the 50th Anniversary of St. Josemaria Escriva’s pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City from May 15-24, 1970. His pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, on the Hill of Tepeyac, is recognized as the longest and one of the most important pilgrimages in his life. in this podcast, Fr. Javier shares historical insight to the pilgrimage and the lessons we can learn from St. Josemaria’s example of Marian devotion. Toward the end of this meditation (at 21:52), Fr. Javier shares an excerpt from Dream and Your Dreams Will Fall Short by Pedro Casciaro, available in our online shop at <a href='https://www.stjosemaria.org/shop/'>www.stjosemaria.org</a>. THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

St. Josemaria Escriva: A Pilgrim at Tepeyac

Saint John Henry Newman (1801–1890), a pre-eminent English intellectual and convert to Catholicism, was brought up in a low Church Anglican home where his grandmother and an aunt first nurtured his love for the Bible. At the age of 15, after a short period of entertaining religious doubts, he had a first conversion to Evangelical Christianity. For a few years he was influenced in his piety and biblical reading by evangelical authors, and later in the sacramental and ecclesial life by Anglican theologians. Then in 1845, through the study of the Church Fathers, he came to a profound understanding of authentic development of doctrine, in particular the exercise of the Pope's office; it was then that he became Roman Catholic.
 He lived during a period similar to ours: one of economic and technological progress that was accompanied by an embrace of materialism and a subsequent loss of faith and moral breakdown. Newman's writings challenge us, contemporary men and women, living in a world beset by these similar ills.
 His writings on the subject of holiness, the practice of the Christian virtues, the objective nature of truth and its relationship to the moral conscience, university education, and the role of the laity in society and the Church are very much needed today. Individuals, parish groups, and students at Newman Centers will benefit and learn from his life example, insights, and teachings found in this book. Newman was canonized by Pope Francis in 2019 and declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIV in July 2025.

Holiness In A Secular Age: The Witness of Cardinal Newman

Carolyn Klika joins Doug to discuss her divorce support organization - Abounding Joy Ministry. They unpack the importance of working to save marriages and offer support for victims of divorce. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Evelyn - I am separated from my husband who is suffering from mental illness. How can I save my marriage? (18:43)</li> <li>Michael - My wife told me she wanted to leave 3 weeks ago. I tried to talk to her. She keeps saying we are two different people. What should I do? (25:04)</li> <li>Larry - What happens if I am about to get divorced? Is there any way to save my marriage after the divorce is finalized? (36:19)</li> <li>Peter - My wife asked for a separation. She says I am too harsh on the kids and I am pushing my Catholicism on them. (41:58)</li> </ul> Resources: Rekindled Hearts Marriage Bundle <a href="https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle">https://relevantradio.store/collections/books/products/marriage-bundle</a> Abounding Joy Ministry <a href="https://www.aboundingjoyministry.com/">https://www.aboundingjoyministry.com/</a> Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.com/</a>

Support for victims of divorce

The first in the Douglings Adventures Series (for ages 9-12) 
Join the fun and brave Douglas siblings Liam, Christian, Allora, Mary, Angelica, and Serena as they go on an adventure that leads them to an encounter with St. Pio of Pietrelcina better known as Padre Pio. They will come to love this wonderful saint, learn from his amazing knowledge of good and evil, help fight against the powers of a dark and looming enemy, and learn lessons about God's love, forgiveness, and mercy.

Mystic Informant

Faith, simply put, places us in real contact with God. Faith is our strength as Christians because it teaches us to rely on Him in all things. Often lived most fervently when experiencing spiritual desolation, faith bears the fruit of peace, hope, and love. This book will cover different ways to strengthen your faith and bring you spiritually closer to God. Take nine days with Fr. Jacques to meditate. Take nine days with Fr. Jacques to meditate on your faith and learn how to deepen and strengthen it, so that through both times of ease and times of burden, your faith can keep you focused on God, as he faithfully keeps his focus on you.

Nine Days to Strengthen Your Faith

Doug continues his discussion on what the Catholic Church teaches about marriage: Marriage is a spiritual endeavor; Marriage is indissoluble; Marriage is unitive and procreative. He also shares why we entrust ourselves on the intercession of Mary, the mother of God and gives advice to callers with their questions on marriage.

Marriage and the Catholic Church (Part 2)

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

Helping children with anxiety and OCD

Author Francis Fernandez-Carvajal makes generous use of the writings of the great saints as he brings you focused and moving meditations on themes taken from the Mass readings for that day, the liturgical season, and more. This work is rich and extensive enough to serve as your spiritual reading for a lifetime, as it helps you relate the particulars of the message of Christ to the ordinary circumstances of your day.

In Conversation With God: Volume 7, Feasts, July-December

In this podcast, Fr. Justin Gillespie shares some considerations on ways that we can speak to our Lord in the stillness, in the silence, of being present in his presence in the Eucharist. He also reminds us to call upon the Blessed Virgin Mary for help and guidance as we make efforts to improve our relationship with God and in turn improve our lives. 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>

Praying Before Jesus in the Eucharist

Do you feel as emotionally safe with your spouse today as when you were married? Are you concerned your hearts are drifting apart? Are you afraid to be emotionally vulnerable? Today, Doug unpacks the importance of emotional connection in marriage and how to regain it if you&rsquo;ve lost it. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Ron - We're having difficulty because my wife doesn't believe in matrimonial marriage. The vows that we took with each other don't apply to her as they do to me. We&rsquo;ve been married for 41 years. (23:08)</li> <li>Peter - I'm a caregiver for my wife. She has dementia and it's getting worse.&nbsp; It's like she doesn't believe in me and I have no emotional help. How do I deal with this? (30:00)</li> <li>Dick - After 46 years of marriage, we've been different all this time. I'm more social than she is. How do I bring back the fun-loving person I knew 46 years ago? (37:20)</li> <li>Zach - After you have a child with your wife and she becomes a different person, how do you remind her of how much fun you used to have? We have been married for 2 years. (41:17)</li> <li>Lori - My marriage of 28 years has been good. There have been some bumps, but we're best friends more than anything. (45:07)</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; Catholic Therapists <a href="https://catholictherapists.com/">https://catholictherapists.com/</a> &nbsp; Key elements for a strong emotional connection <ol> <li>Trust</li> <li>Respect</li> <li>Empathy</li> <li>Communication</li> <li>Friendship</li> </ol>

Key elements for a strong emotional connection

In this meditation: Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on how holiness is like the seeds that Jesus speaks about in the Gospel. Holiness grows in each one of us, but it grows by being in a constant state of converting; that is, we are all a work in progress. Conversion requires an overhaul of our lives and a complete change of heart. And, as Fr. Peter explains, step number one is to speak with Our Lord and ask him to enlighten us, so that we see ourselves with the idea of changing, repenting, and becoming more like Christ. Our Lord desires a humble and contrite heart. Step number two, we need faith. We must take to heart every word Jesus enunciated—his example, his witness, his sentiments, and his teachings. Our faith is not where it should be until we embrace everything the Lord says. When we look to Our Lord and ask for his grace, we will discover the tiny ways (or seeds) that allow the natural growth of our Christian life and our progress in holiness. As St. Josemaria Escriva said, &quot;Conversion is the matter of a moment. Sanctification is the work of a lifetime&quot; (The Way, no. 285). <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Conversion-A-Work-in-Progress-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/conversion-a-work-in-progress/'>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>

Conversion: A Work in Progress

So teach us to number our days
 that we may get a heart of wisdom. 
—PSALM 90:12 
AT THE AGE OF SEVENTY-NINE, Pope St. John Paul II wrote a letter to the "dear elderly people of all languages and cultures" as encouragement in the autumn of their lives. It was also a moment of personal reflection as he faced his imminent arrival to eternity: "from life to life!" 
Stephen Gabriel has taken the pope's words and advice to heart. This book is his shared perspective on how to effectively adopt a proper state of heart and mind during the retirement years. He addresses the Lord's call to both give and receive: give of your time, talent, and welling wisdom, while opening yourself to fully receive the graces the Lord wishes to bestow. Count on Gabriel's own wisdom to give you both a spiritual and practical means by which you can live these years vibrantly.

The Homestretch

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Peter Armenio delves into Christ’s new commandment to love one another as he has loved us emphasizing the “vertical” and “horizontal” aspects of this commandment, likening it to the shape of a Cross. Fr. Peter also explains how strengthening our prayer life empowers us to live out this commandment and how embracing a life of piety serves as the foundation for our spiritual journey. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/A-Brand-New-Commandment-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/a-brand-new-commandment/'>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>

A Brand-New Commandment

In our meditation of the week, in preparation for Father&apos;s Day, Msgr. Fred Dolan shares a reflection on the important and necessary role fathers have within the family unit and in society today. Drawing upon anecdotes and heartfelt memories from his relationship with his own father, Msgr. Dolan shares seven points that can help fathers renew and strengthen their relationship with their spouse and children. Msgr. Dolan explains that children have a need for authentic care, love, and affection in order to develop into responsible, morally and religiously mature, and psychologically stable persons. He encourages fathers to treat their children in the same way that God treats each one of us: with high standards, loving protection, great hopes for the future, affectionate understanding, a readiness to forgive, and never failing love. In doing so, children will be drawn into a deeper relationship and will seek to imitate this love among their friends and family for generations to come. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/The-Responsibility-of-Fatherhood-1.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

The Responsibility of Fatherhood (Rebroadcast)

Pepe Serret was a businessman and the father of a large family. He had contagious good humor and an extraordinary capacity for friendship. He touched the lives of many people ranging from a gardener to the CEO of a company that competed with his.
Resources to learn more about Pepe Serret:
<ul>
 <li>Raventos Artes, Lluis. Pepe Serret. Himno a la vida. Madrid: Palabra, 2000. (<a href="https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Llu%C3%ADs-Ravent%C3%B3s-Art%C3%A9s/dp/8490610649" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Amazon</a>, in Spanish)</li>
 <li>Rico, Octavio, and Juan Zandri, eds. Pepe Serret. Recuerdos de sus amigos. Lleida: Privately published, 1994. (<a href="https://www.scribd.com/document/682975534" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Scribd</a>, in Spanish)</li>
</ul>
For more information about Opus Dei or to inquire about Opus Dei activities in your area, visit <a href="https://opusdei.org/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠www.opusdei.org⁠⁠</a>.
You can buy the book "Encounters: Finding God in All Walks of Life" from <a href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/encounters" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠Scepter Publishers⁠⁠</a> or on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/159417511X" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠</a>.

Pepe Serret: Businessman

Doug continues to share things you can say to your spouse that will breathe new life into your marriage. He shares the importance of working on marriage together trusting that with the grace of God you can overcome any obstacle to a good marriage. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - My husband likes to look up ladies on the internet. It&rsquo;s not pornography but swimsuit models. Should I be bothered by this? (6:46)</li> <li>Jerry - I had a discussion with my wife that I wouldn't discipline her children. If anything would come up that would require discipline, I'd let her know and she would discipline them. I sat the kids down before we were married and said that I love them. (20:09)</li> <li>Rita - I am almost 80 and looking back on all that I should've done. I'm hoping that others like my own children and those I've influenced can rethink what they're doing. (39:35)</li> </ul> Resources: 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> Pathfinders for autism <a href="https://pathfindersforautism.org/">https://pathfindersforautism.org/</a> Phrases that will help your marriage <ol> <li>I appreciate you when you do this.</li> <li>I feel&hellip;</li> <li>How can we improve our relationship?</li> <li>I understand where you&rsquo;re coming from.</li> <li>What can I do to make things better?</li> <li>I apologize for_________________.</li> <li>Can we talk more about this?</li> <li>I miss doing this with you.</li> <li>I value you being in my life because________.</li> <li>We&rsquo;re stronger when we&rsquo;re together.</li> <li>I trust you because______________.</li> <li>Let&rsquo;s tackle our issues together.</li> <li>I believe in our ability to make it.</li> <li>I have things I need to work on.</li> <li>I love you!</li> </ol>

Making marriage even better (Part 2)

Today on the podcast… Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, explains why the Sermon on the Mount is such a shockingly high calling, and encourages us to become “spiritual athletes” striving toward the Kingdom of God.You’ll also hear how St. Josemaria Escriva believed that the lay person was in “hibernation” and that they too are called to become saints. Lastly, Fr. Peter explains the “price” of the Kingdom of Heaven according to St. Matthew. 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>

A Reflection on the Interior Struggle of the Christian Life

Listen in to the second half of the chapter Christ's Presence in Christians from St. Josemaria Escriva's book Christ is Passing By. This episode includes points 108-116.

Christ's Presence in Christians (Part II) - Christ is Passing By

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

She was seventeen years old, a student from Barcelona with a quick smile, a guitar, and a love of mountain hikes &mdash; and she is now a candidate for beatification. Montserrat Grases lived nothing that looked extraordinary from the outside: school, friends, family, the small daily struggle to be kinder and more generous. Then came a terminal cancer diagnosis at sixteen, and the world saw what that hidden interior life had built. Written with warmth and precision by Mercedes Eguibar, this booklet follows Montse from her first encounter with Opus Dei to her death on Holy Thursday 1959 &mdash; a death as serene, joyful, and unhurried as her life. A quietly electrifying portrait of what it actually looks like to become a saint.

Montserrat Grases

Beloved by millions, The Way is St. Josemaría's spiritually rich collection of points for meditation and prayer. Genial but pointed, The Way is born out of deep Christian experience and aims at encouraging people to love God and live for Him. Says St. Josemaría: The 999 points which make up The Way were written with yearnings to see Christ, the light of the world. Anyone who reads it with the same yearnings will not have opened this book in vain. This mini edition fits easily into the most jammed purse or pocket.

The Way (Mini Edition)

Conflict is a part of married life, but can you still have a good marriage if you argue from time to time? Today, Doug shares how conflict can actually improve your marriage. &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Maria - My husband will ask pin pointed questions and I&rsquo;ll give him the answer but he will respond with his own answer and its feeling very confrontational. (13:00)</li> <li>Deedee - What causes a man to stonewall? (42:23)</li> <li>Lily - Give me something else because none of this works. My husband won&rsquo;t have a conversation. (45:38)</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>

Conflict is a good thing

First published in 1977, Friends of God is a collection of 18 homilies given between 1941-68. This one, In the Footsteps of Christ, is the 8th homily in this collection. The book encourages us to develop a deeper friendship with the "God who is close to us."

In the Footsteps of Christ - Friends of God

In this podcast for the First Sunday of Advent, Fr. Leo Austin offers an inspiring meditation to help us focus not necessarily on what we are going to give to Jesus, but on the gifts that Jesus gives to us. He is not asking us to be perfect. He is inviting us to a relationship with him saying, &quot;Come to me.&quot; Advent is a preparation for an encounter. It&apos;s not about being scared or tense because God is going to show up at any moment and catch us. Advent is a time for us to realize that Our Lord is coming to this world to call us to happiness. As Fr. Leo explains, &quot;It&apos;s God coming to see you, to be with you.&quot; This is our vocation: God coming into this world, creating us, and then giving us freedom to develop, to unfold, to discover, and to explore. God is telling us, &quot;I love you before you were aware of that and I&apos;m preparing for you something special--an encounter, a friendship, that is unconditional.&quot; Yet, if sometimes we don&apos;t trust God, the funny thing is that he trusts us. God knows that sometimes we are blind, scared, wounded, and discouraged. For those moments, he provides us with the gifts of faith, hope, and love. And, as we read in the Gospel, he comes to heal us and he tells us these three consoling words, &quot;Come to me.&quot; _________ Did you enjoy this podcast? Explore <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/advent-time-for-hope/'>&quot;A Time for Hope: Advent with St. Josemaria Escriva&quot;</a> - a collection of devotions, readings, and meditations from the St. Josemaria Institute to help you prepare for the Nativity of Our Lord and the season of Christmas. _________ <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Come-to-Me-Advent-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/advent-come-to-me/'>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>

“Come to Me”: First Sunday of Advent

Homily at the funeral of Fr. Joe Escribano who was among the original pillars of Opus Dei in Canada from 1959. It was preached in French and English by Fr. André Blais at St. George Parish in Ottawa.
<a href="https://opusdei.org/en-ca/article/father-joseph-escribano-1933-2023-a-pillar-for-the-beginnings-of-opus-dei-in-canada/">https://opusdei.org/en-ca/article/father-joseph-escribano-1933-2023-a-pillar-for-the-beginnings-of-opus-dei-in-canada/</a>

Funeral Homily for Fr. Joe Escribano (1933-2023)

In this podcast, Fr. Eric Nicolai reflects on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and how this feast is a cause for joy and hope for all of us. Whenever we see the Assumption depicted in art, it&apos;s always joyful and beautiful! Why? Because it is a reminder of the ancient teaching that Mary knew no corporal decay, but entered into Heaven and was received by God in body and soul. It fills us with peace to know that she is waiting for us and wants us to come to be with her Son. The Assumption is a feast that we&apos;re encouraged to not let just pass us by without really, truly being affected in some deep way. One way to be affected is to enter into a deeper joy, regardless of our situation in life, as we contemplate that something really wonderful happened to Mary because she let herself be guided by God&apos;s Divine Logic.   We are sons and daughters of Mary-- St. Josemaria took this deeply to heart, and we should try to do this too. On this beautiful Feast of the Assumption, St. Josemaria reminds us that: &quot;the supernatural value of our life does not depend on accomplishing great undertakings suggested to us by our overactive imagination. Rather, it is to be found in the faithful acceptance of God’s will, in welcoming generously the opportunities for small, daily sacrifice. If we strive to imitate Mary’s fidelity, God will surely do great things in us” (Christ is Passing By, no. 172). Tune in to this podcast as we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption on August 15th. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/The-Joy-of-the-Assumption-Transcript.pdf'>View Transcript</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcasts/the-joy-of-the-assumption/'>Visit Show Page</a> THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

The Joy of the Assumption of Mary [Rebroadcast]

You will find yourself filled with laughter and tears
as you follow the stories of these powerful women 
and their families who give insight 
into the culture and aspirations 
of the Luo people in Kenya.
This novel tells the story of a slow Christian conversion penetrating through four generations of a family from the mid-1800s to the present. 
Set in East Africa, prior to European colonization, author Margaret Ogola paints a vivid picture of a family's journey through time and a rapidly changing culture. Fascinating and captivating, this story highlights the culture, the beliefs, and the oh-so-familiar human struggles and joys of generations of women and their families. The themes of loyalty, courage, family values, and hope permeate the story as each generation endures suffering with determination and a firm belief in God. They welcome change while taking on the challenges that come with it and grasping onto the continuity of their traditions and beliefs. 
The River and the Source by Margaret A. Ogola won both the Jomo Kenyatta Literature Prize and the Commonwealth Writers Prize Best First Book in the Africa Region. It continues to be in worldwide demand.

The River and the Source

Jesus Christ came to earth not only to save us from sin and death but also to show us how to embrace suffering and persevere through temptation.In this podcast, Fr. Peter Armenio reflects on the three temptations Christ endured while in the desert and explains how we can follow his example when facing temptation in our daily life. Through his humanity, Christ gives witness to the intentional effort needed to turn away from sin and achieve growth in our spiritual life. As St. Josemaria Escriva writes: “The whole episode is a mystery which man cannot hope to understand: God submitting to temptation, letting the evil one have his way. But we can meditate upon it, asking our Lord to help us understand the teaching it contains” (Christ is Passing By, no. 61). THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

The Temptations of Christ

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation to a group of priests at the Manoir de Beaujeu, near Montreal on February 27, 2024.
In one of his letters, St. Paul reflects his deep solicitude and his joy at seeing and experiencing the growth of the faith in the Ephesians. It moves him to thanksgiving and prayer.
Eph 1, 15-20: For this reason, because I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, 16 I do not cease to give thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers, 17 that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, (...)
Thumbnail: Rembrandt, Three Trees, etching, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam 1643.
Music: &#39;Undertow&#39; by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.com

Like a Tree Planted by a Flowing River

Prayer is the breath of the soul &mdash; and yet so many Christians feel they don't quite know how. Rev. Francis Luna cuts through confusion and discouragement with straightforward, encouraging guidance rooted in the Church's rich tradition. Whether you are just beginning or have been praying for years, this booklet will deepen your conversation with God and renew your desire to seek his face.

How to Pray

In this podcast, Fr. Paul Donlan reflects on how we are called to imitate Christ in laying down our lives for the love of others. Today, Holy Thursday, marks the beginning of the Paschal Triduum-- the three days commemorating the crucifixion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. As we contemplate these events, may we remember that Christ’s great sacrifice is something we should aspire to emulate in our everyday lives through “the humdrum tasks of daily life-- in marriage, in family, in the workplace, in moving about our local communities, with people we don’t even know personally.”

Ep. 2 Laying Down Your Life for Love

Call Him Father is a delightfully practical guide to attaining joyful intimacy with God, and to knowing Him truly as your Father. Fr. Edward Maristany leads you through a simple approach to getting to know God through prayer and service. In this book on the the fatherhood of God, he describes the crucial role of parents in introducing children to the love of our heavenly Father, and explains the role of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and Mary in fostering this love. He shows you how even your times of difficulty can lead you to deeper love for and trust in God your Father.

Call Him Father: How to Experience the Fatherhood of God

Ana Gonzalo was a career official of the European Union and oversaw EU social projects in many parts of the world. Ana was deeply committed to her Catholic faith, but knew how to appreciate the virtues of the people of other religions her work put her in contact with.
Resource to learn more about Ana Gonzalo:
<ul>
 <li>Gonzalo Castellano, Blanca. Una prolongada carta de familia. Mi hermana Ana—Un testimonio de coraje en las instituciones europeas. Madrid: Ediciones de Buena Tinta, 2013.</li>
</ul>
For more information about Opus Dei or to inquire about Opus Dei activities in your area, visit <a href="https://opusdei.org/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠⁠www.opusdei.org⁠⁠⁠</a>.
You can buy the book "Encounters: Finding God in All Walks of Life" from <a href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/encounters" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠⁠Scepter Publishers⁠⁠⁠</a> or on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/159417511X" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">⁠⁠⁠Amazon⁠⁠⁠</a>.

Ana Gonzalo: Eurocrat

Magnifica Humanitas (Part 15)

Listen to St. Josemaria Escriva's homily Towards Holiness from his book Friends of God. Here he encourages all of us to seek sanctity in the everyday.

Towards Holiness - Friends of God

Opus Dei

On November 1, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints and, in the Gospel for the day, we hear Jesus’ teaching on the beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12A). In this podcast, Msgr. Fred Dolan shares a reflection on how Christ gave us the beatitudes as an explanation of what it means to be holy and to help us navigate our personal journey towards holiness. We reflect on how striving for holiness is influenced by our correspondence to God’s grace as we see in the example of the saints. In contemplating the lives of the saints, we can be inspired to discover new ways of living out the beatitudes as we pursue holiness in everyday life. [<a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Transcript-Pursuing-Holiness.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>

Pursuing Holiness: A Reflection for the Solemnity of All Saints

Today on the podcast… Fr. Peter Armenio, a priest of Opus Dei, explains how suffering is not a sign that should cause us to lose hope, but rather it is a sign of our sharing in the Cross of Christ, which according to St. Paul is the power of God.  We also hear how we can grow in hope by making Jesus and His Cross the center of our lives; and how that is also the best way to give hope to others. 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>

Jesus, Our Hope in Times of Trial

A meditation preached in the woods by Fr. Eric Nicolai at camp Caribou near Barry&#39;s Bay, Ontario.Matt 23: 13-22: Jesus said: ‘Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who shut up the kingdom of heaven in men’s faces, neither going in yourselves nor allowing others to go in who want to.And the one most demanding statement from our Lord, the most uncompromising , harsh, forceful, consequential, indomitable, is the truth is about hypocrisy. It must be counteracted by unity of life.Thumbnail: Screen grab from the movie, The Godfather.Music: Michael Lee of Toronto.

You Hypocrites! The Urgency of Unity of Life

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai to priests of the priests of the Archdiocese of Toronto, in the parish of St. Edward the Confessor.Today the church celebrates the 15th-century Saint Juan Diego from Mexico, with an unpronounceable last name. He was surnamed Cuauhtlatoatzin. The account of her appearance transformed Mexico. She can transform us, too.Music: Bert Alink, Adeste fideles, guitar, by John Francis Wade. Played 2017.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Protects us from Being Lukewarm

Welcome to this transformative spiritual retreat led by renowned author and spiritual director Fr. Jacques Philippe. In a world filled with noise, distraction, and anxiety, this collection of conferences offers a sanctuary of profound stillness, grounded in the deep well of Catholic spiritual tradition.
The eight videos in this series:
1. Be At Peace With God 2. Find Peace With Ourselves 3. Maintain Peace Over Time 4. God's Presence in Nature &amp; Creation 5. God's Presence In Holy Scripture 6. God's Presence In the Eucharist 7. God's Presence In the Humanity of Christ 8. God's Presence in Our Hearts
Throughout this series, Fr. Jacques guides us on a step-by-step journey to discover where God truly dwells and how we can cultivate an unshakeable interior peace across all seasons of life.&nbsp;
🌿 What You Will Discover in This Series: &bull; The Dimensions of God&rsquo;s Presence: Learn how to recognize and encounter the divine in Holy Scripture, the Holy Eucharist, the concrete humanity of Jesus Christ, and the hidden "little palace" of your own heart. &bull; The Foundations of Interior Peace: Receive practical, gentle guidance on how to be at peace with God, how to be at peace with yourself, and how to maintain that peace over time despite daily struggles and psychological wounds. &bull; The Source of True Freedom: Discover how small, two-second moments of silent recollection during a busy workday and simple acts of charity toward your neighbor unlock a life lived in constant communion with the Trinity.
📖 About Fr. Jacques Philippe Fr. Jacques Philippe is a member of the Community of the Beatitudes and the author of modern spiritual classics, including "Searching for and Maintaining Peace," "Interior Freedom," and "Time for God." His reassuring and accessible insights have helped millions of believers worldwide deepen their prayer lives and rest securely in God&rsquo;s love.
---
📚 Brought to you by Scepter Publishers. Explore more books and resources to transform your spiritual journey.

Spiritual Retreat: Finding Peace & God's Presence

Today on the podcast… We are invited to listen and contemplate:How eternal happiness begins here on earth and is brought to its fullness in Heaven. Why it is a good idea to study the lives of the saints. The meaning of the “revolutionary message” revealed to St. Josemaria Escriva: to bring Christ into the heart of the modern world. At the end of our reflection and prayer, we ask Our Lady to help us learn to live each day imitating the saints. 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>

A Revolutionary Message

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

Created for Greatness explains the virtue of magnanimity, a virtue capable of setting the tone of your entire life, transforming it, giving it new meaning and leading to the flourishing of your personality. Magnanimity is the willingness to undertake great tasks; it is the source of human greatness. Along with humility, it is a virtue specific to true leaders emboldened by the desire to achieve greatness by bringing out the greatness in others. Complete with practical steps and points for personal examination, this book will not only inspire you, but will place you firmly on the path to a more magnanimous life.

Created for Greatness

Hosted by evangelist Matthew Leonard at <a href="https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Science of Sainthood</a>, in a special partnership with Scepter Publishers, Introduction to Real Prayer&nbsp;introduces viewers to the basics of prayer, its necessity, and how to make it a part of their daily lives.
But it does a&nbsp;lot&nbsp;more.
Matthew guides viewers through the ins and outs of vocal, meditative, and contemplative prayer, showing&nbsp;not just what they are, but how to do them.
He also covers the three stages of the spiritual life (which many Catholics have never heard of), as well as the practical steps to make actual progress in the spiritual life in the easy-to-understand, conversational style for which he is known.
It's time to get real about prayer . . . and watch people's lives be radically transformed.&nbsp;
Purchase now for a year's access to Introduction to Real Prayer (includes entry into Science of Sainthood's email accompaniment sequence for this course)
View more courses like this at <a href="https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Science of Sainthood</a>.&nbsp;
Number of Lessons - 9 | Lesson Length - 20 Minutes&nbsp;

Introduction to Real Prayer

Every moment is an opportunity to begin again. Rev. Walter Macken offers a message of profound hope for anyone who feels the weight of past failures, old habits, or spiritual discouragement. Drawing on the inexhaustible mercy of God, this booklet is a gentle but bracing invitation to conversion &mdash; not someday, but today. Perfect for Lent, Advent, or any moment when the soul is ready for a fresh start.

A New Beginning

The crucifix, a symbol at the heart of our Catholic worship, is a prominent, visual reminder of the suffering of Christ. But do we understand the encompassing reality of Christ's suffering? Many Christians are unaware that Jesus suffers even now, today—that his suffering is ongoing, not a single event two thousand years ago.
This book seeks to shed light on Christ's continual suffering. Through this understanding, we can be further attuned to Christ's sacred humanity—his joys and sorrows—and recognize the urgency to console his Heart. This understanding of our responsibility to not only love but also console the heart of Christ, will act as an epiphanic turning point in our Christian lives.
The author first focuses on friendship with Christ in our spiritual lives, outlining the most helpful means of getting to know him through revelation, the Gospel, and prayer. The second part addresses the two motivations to respond to Christ's love: gratitude and compassion for his sorrowful Heart. This compassion includes a co-redemptive desire to relieve his wounds, which in turn spurs our generosity. Thus, the perennial relevance of the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus is revealed.

Is Jesus Still Suffering?

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

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

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Temperament is biological&mdash;your natural style of reacting. Character is spiritual, forged over time through the practice of virtue. This course lays the foundation for everything that follows in the Virtuous Leadership&reg; journey.
From discovering your temperament to educating your heart, this program follows a clear anthropological architecture: Understand who you are, build your character through the practice of virtues, integrate heart, mind, and will, formulate your personal mission, and achieve emotional maturity.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

From Temperament to Character

In today’s podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo meditates on St. James the Apostle, a “son of thunder,” and reflects on how we too can become a magnanimous, humble, and daring disciple of Christ. What you’ll hear: 0:40 – About the nickname of St. James “son of thunder.” 1:20 – A theory on why the mother of the sons of Zebedee asked Jesus, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your Kingdom.” (Matthew 20:21 )5:20 – A reflection on the call of Sts. James and John 9:00 – The purification and fortification of St. James and John’s enthusiastic and daring “Yes, we can!” in Matthew 20:22 11:10 – How St. James can purify our intentions and enthusiasm when following Christ 13:00 – How Jesus taught St. James and the Apostles humility 15:30 – Christ’s teaching on humility in the Christian life 17:25 – Story about Bl. Alvaro’s rejection of vanity 18:55 – How St. James’ enthusiasm brought him to the “ends of the earth,” to Spain. 19:20 – How Our Lady appeared to St. James (in modern day Zaragoza) while he was discouraged with his mission and on his way back to Jerusalem. She appeared to St. James, by a special grace while she was still alive, standing on a Roman pillar to encourage St. James to go back and not give up. 21:05 – Why did St. James get discouraged? Why do disciples of Christ become discouraged and sad so often? 23:40 – Why St. Josemaria Escriva was so confident and daring when sending inexperienced missionaries to different parts of the world 25:05 – On becoming a “son of thunder” and being magnanimous, humble, and daring all at the same timeReferences: Gospel Reading on the Feast of St. James (Matthew 20:20-28) St. James at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-13) THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! If you enjoy our weekly meditations, please consider helping us keep the St. Josemaria Institute Podcast ad-free and accessible for all our listeners: <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/give/'>Give today!</a> <a rel="payment" href="https://stjosemaria.org/give/">Support the show</a>

St. James the Apostle

'Twas the night before Easter, and all through the Church every heart was stirring. The early Christians kept a Vigil that made a lasting impression. The symbols were elemental: fire, water, darkness, nakedness, music, dramatic preaching, surprising chalices, and more-than-marathon endurance. Prepare for your Easter Vigil by learning about theirs. LINKS Melito of Sardis, Peri Pascha <a href= "https://sachurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/On-Pascha-Melito-of-Sardis.pdf" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://sachurch.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/On-Pascha-Melito-of-Sardis.pdf</a> Melito of Sardis, Peri Pascha (another translation) <a href= "https://www.kerux.com/doc/0401A1.asp" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://www.kerux.com/doc/0401A1.asp</a> Eusebius of Caesarea, On the Celebration of Easter <a href= "https://tertullian.org/fathers/eusebius_on_easter.htm" target= "_blank" rel= "noopener">https://tertullian.org/fathers/eusebius_on_easter.htm</a> St. Augustine, Sermon 227 <a href= "https://stanselminstitute.org/files/SERMON%20227.pdf" target= "_blank" rel= "noopener">https://stanselminstitute.org/files/SERMON%20227.pdf</a> Mike Aquilina's website <a href= "https://fathersofthechurch.com/" data-cke-saved-href= "https://fathersofthechurch.com/">https://fathersofthechurch.com</a> Mike Aquilina's books <a href= "https://catholicbooksdirect.com/writer/mike-aquilina/" data-cke-saved-href= "https://catholicbooksdirect.com/writer/mike-aquilina/">https://catholicbooksdirect.com/writer/mike-aquilina/</a> Theme music: Gaudeamus (Introit for the Feast of All Saints), sung by Jeff Ostrowski. Courtesy of Corpus Christi Watershed <a href="http://www.ccwatershed.org/" data-cke-saved-href= "http://www.ccwatershed.org/">http://www.ccwatershed.org</a> DONATE at: <a href= "http://www.catholicculture.org/donate/audio">http://www.catholicculture.org/donate/audio</a>

The Mother of All Vigils

This is the first meditation from a year end retreat at Saint Augustine&#39;s Seminary in Toronto, begun April 13, 2026. We begin with the account of the discouraged disciples of Emmaus.Preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai in Saint Augustine Seminary. Thumbnail: MS VisualsMusic: Kevin Macleod, White Lotus.

Retreat for Seminarians: Like the Disciples of Emmaus

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://stjosemaria.org/ipray-god-of-the-living'>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>

He Is Not God of the Dead, but of the Living | iPray with the Gospel (32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time)

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

The Treasure of Prayer

Are you looking to be a better husband? From making your wife laugh, to showing your wife you love her in a meaningful way, Doug unpacks 11 ideas for husbands to make their wives feel well loved. Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Bree - I love the list that you gave. This could also be applied for a wife to a husband. I struggle with procrastination. My husband is early to everything. (43:10)</li> </ul> Resources: Catholic Psychotherapy <a href="https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/">https://catholicpsychotherapy.org/</a> Catholic Therapists <a href="https://www.catholictherapists.com/">https://www.catholictherapists.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> &nbsp; Ideas to make your wife feel well loved <ol> <li>Show your love in a meaningful way.</li> <li>Never stop making your wife laugh.</li> <li>Listen without trying to fix it.</li> <li>Pitch in without being asked.</li> <li>Keep the romance alive in small ways.</li> <li>Treat your wife like a priority and not an afterthought.</li> <li>Respect your wife&rsquo;s opinion even if you don&rsquo;t agree.</li> <li>Support your wife&rsquo;s dreams and goals.</li> <li>Apologize sincerely when you make a mistake.</li> <li>Protect your wife&rsquo;s peace, not just her safety.</li> <li>Never stop showing your wife gratitude.</li> </ol>

Making your wife feel well loved

One of the young men who accompanied St. Josemaría Escrivá on his escape to freedom during the Spanish Civil War was Tomás Alvira. He wished to follow the founder of Opus Dei in a life of apostolic dedication, but as a married, rather than a single, person. St. Josemaría advised him to wait and, at the right time, he could become part of Opus Dei as well as be a family man with wife and children, which happened within 10 years. 
   
Our Lives in His Hands by Olga Marlin is the story of the life and adventures of Tomás and his wife Paquita, who raised a large family and whose cause of holiness is now progressing through the approval process of the Catholic Church.

Our Lives in His Hands: An Ordinary Couple's Path to Holiness

In this episode, Ashton Ellis discusses how we can become better dads by loving others better, starting with our wives.


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Episode 24: Being an Excellent Lover

Doug shares the importance of establishing a strong emotional connection in marriage. PLUS: The Friday rant! &nbsp; Listener questions and comments: <ul> <li>Mary - Contraception gets in between a husband and a wife. (8:36)</li> <li>Anita - Everything you are saying are things I've said to my husband. I feel like I've been so distant. (22:43)</li> <li>Lorraine - Would you agree that once the honeymoon is over that you should make an effort to think 'what would my life be without them?' Be grateful. My husband died and now I&rsquo;m grateful for the time I had with him. (46:01)</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> &nbsp; The Gift of NaPro Technology <a href="https://relevantradio.com/2025/03/the-gift-of-napro-technology/">https://relevantradio.com/2025/03/the-gift-of-napro-technology/</a> &nbsp; 4 Strategies for rebuilding emotional intimacy <ol> <li>Prioritize purposeful communication</li> <li>Reignite shared interests and activities</li> <li>Integrate rituals of connection into your daily routine</li> <li>Embrace the power of nonverbal communication</li> </ol>

Building Emotional Safety

In our meditation of the week: Fr. Javier del Castillo reflects on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and how she helps us to rise up to Heaven in our daily lives. For St. Josemaria, the Assumption or the Dormition of Our Lady played a vital role in his life as a young boy in Barbastro, Spain. St. Josemaria’s devotion to Our Lady became so great that he wished to “rise up” to Heaven with Mary by clinging to the tassel of her cloak in an effort to bring a piece of Heaven to Earth.Fr. Javier invites us to look to Mary who teaches us that the essence of bringing Heaven to Earth lies in our ability to rise above challenges and adversities. By following her example, we can forgive even the unforgivable, serve others selflessly, and rise above our own tiredness and hardships. Mary&apos;s life exemplifies humility and the power of faith, showing us how to bring Christ&apos;s presence into our daily actions. As we emulate Mary&apos;s virtues and focus on the needs of others, we can transform our lives and actions, creating a piece of Heaven on Earth. <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/podcast/'>VIEW SHOW PAGE</a> <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Rising-with-Mary-The-Assumption-of-Our-Blessed-Mother.pdf'>VIEW 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>

Rising with Mary: The Assumption of Our Blessed Mother (Rebroadcast)

Written in the weeks following St. Josemar&iacute;a's death in 1975, this moving tribute by Cardinal Sergio Pignedoli captures the spiritual genius of Opus Dei's founder with the intimacy of a friend and the precision of a theologian. Here is the man behind the movement: rooted in divine filiation, consumed by love for the Church, and utterly convinced that sanctity is the vocation of every Christian &mdash; in the office, the kitchen, the workshop, wherever life is lived.

Divine Ways on Earth

How do I find fulfillment in life? How do I obtain happiness? Despite a multitude of self-help books in recent years, these eternal questions have become increasingly urgent in today's directionless world.
Author Jacques Philippe provides some answers. In his new Christian self-help book, Called to Life, he explains that a complete and fulfilled life is much more assured when we stop trying to chart our own course, when we realize that we are essentially creatures called by God. He goes on to describe where and how these calls take place: the events of life, the Word of God in Scripture, and interior motions of the Holy Spirit. Learning to recognize and follow these calls is what leads to a happy and full life. 
Called to Life by Fr. Jacques Philippe includes a special section on how to read Sacred Scripture prayerfully (Lectio Divina), making this a timely source of inspiration and guidance following up on the recommendations of Pope Benedict XVI and the 2008 Synod of Bishops on the Word of God.

Called to Life

Introduction

Chapter 1: Freedom and Acceptance

Chapter 1.2: Accepting Ourselves

Chapter 1.3: Accepting Suffering

Chapter 1.4: Accepting Other People

Chapter 2: The Present Moment

Chapter 3: A Dynamism of Faith, Hope, and Love

Chapter 4: From Law to Grace

Chapter 5: Spiritual Poverty and Freedom

It's not always possible to control external events. There are so many things that are outside our control: the past, what others think of us, chronic health issues, other peoples' actions, the weather, unforeseen events. This list goes on and on.
It is possible, though, to gain more control over our&nbsp;interior life. In his book&nbsp;Interior Freedom,&nbsp;Fr. Jacques Phillipe shows us that we possess, each of us, inside of us a space of freedom that no-one can take away. Despite the most unfavorable outward circumstances, we can claim our freedom because God is its source and its guarantee. Without this, we will always be in search for something else to fulfill us, and we will never understand true happiness. Fr. Philippe lays out a simple but important theme in&nbsp;Interior Freedom: "We gain possession of our interior freedom in proportion to our growth in faith, hope, and love." He explains that the dynamism between these three theological virtues is the heart of our spiritual life, and he underscores the key role of the virtue of hope in our spiritual growth. Written in a simple and inviting style,&nbsp;Interior Freedom&nbsp;seeks to liberate the heart and mind to live the true freedom to which God calls each of us.&nbsp;Get the most out of this book with our&nbsp;<a title="Interior Freedom Study Guide" href="https://scepterpublishers.org/products/interior-freedom-study-guide">Interior Freedom Study Guide</a>.

Interior Freedom (audiobook)

Writings of the Founder of Opus Dei

St. Josemaría Escrivá

First published in English in 1996 as Immersed in God, this 20th anniversary edition serves an anecdotal account of the life of St. Josemaria Escriva (1902-1975). Blessed Alvaro (1914-1994) was at the saint's side for almost 40 years as his confessor, and from 1976 to his death as the Prelate of Opus Dei, was the successor to St. Josemaria. Blessed Alvaro relates dozens of accounts of Saint Josemaria's apostolate, his service to the Church, and his personality. Many of these stories only came to light after his death, when letters and tributes poured into Rome from around the world.
These lively anecdotes are gathered in 13 chapters which form a mosaic of the life of St. Josemaria and provided thousands of readers around the world with a picture of the saint, just before publication of an official three volume biography, The Founder of Opus Dei, by Andres Vazquez de Prada.

40 Years With a Saint: Blessed Alvaro del Portillo

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation on August 17, 2026 at Parkhill Centre in Ottawa.Prayer in our life is an essential part of our existence of sons of God. It gives our resilience, and our purpose going. It is like the engine room of our interior life. In the Gospel, we have the Pharisees complaining about the company that Jesus kept. This prompted Jesus to reaffirm the truth of God’s mercy through the most iconic parables of the Gospel: The conversion of the prodigal son.Music: &#39;Undertow&#39; by Scott Buckley - released under CC-BY 4.0. www.scottbuckley.comThumbnail: Rembrandt, The Conversion of the Prodigal Son, 1661.

The Conversion of the Prodigal Son, and ours

What does it mean for the nations—and even the ends of the earth—to belong to Christ?In Part 3 of their study of Psalm 2:8, Jake, Pat, and Louis explore how Christ’s inheritance includes both every soul and every part of ordinary human life. Drawing on St. Josemaría Escrivá, Pope Benedict XVI, St. John Chrysostom, and the teachings of Scripture, they unpack the Christian mission to bring the spirit of Christ into our work, relationships, responsibilities, and daily routines.Together, they reflect on why no person is too far from God, how the Holy Spirit gives us the courage to reach those at the margins, and what it means to “divinize” the world by offering every good human activity back to Christ. Our inheritance is not a call to worldly domination, but an invitation to participate in Christ’s desire to draw all people and all creation into communion with the Father.Join us as we discover why the ends of the earth may be closer than we think—and how Christ may already be calling us to reach them.

Verse 8, Part 3- No One Is Too Far From God

A meditation preached by Fr. Eric Nicolai at Lyncroft Centre, Toronto, on March 19, 2025. Joseph was in a state of emotional upheaval, until God told him in a dream what was happening with Mary. He knew what he had to do. He did not turn around in circles. Joseph’s response was immediate: “When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him” (Mt 1:24). Obedience made it possible for him to surmount his difficulties and spare Mary.The imagination has been called &quot;The Crazy Woman of the House.&quot; How can Joseph intercede to help us put our imagination under better control?Music: Original track by Michael Lee of TorontoThumbnail: Mosaic from St. Peter&#39;s Basilica at the Vatican

Saint Joseph's Calm and Our Crazy Imagination

In this podcast, Fr. Javier del Castillo reflects on the importance of spiritual direction as we pursue the path of holiness in everyday life. Fr. Javier shares Scriptural context for the basis of spiritual direction, offers practical advice on seeking out a spiritual director, and suggests what to discuss within the context of spiritual direction. This podcast is part of our <a href='https://stjosemaria.org/day-of-recollection-june-2021/'>Day of Recollection resources June 2021</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>

Spiritual Direction: Discerning the Will of God

In Real Mercy, Father Jacques Philippe turns his focus on mercy in this book that developed from talks given on the first three days of the Year of Mercy beginning Dec. 8, 2015. 
 On that feast day of the Immaculate Conception, he explored how Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is an exemplar of mercy to the Church and the entire world. In a discreet but vital way she dispenses graces and favors with the compassion of a mother. His second essay on forgiveness in families hits home with everyone. No one has escaped the ill feeling and bitterness caused by strife and misunderstanding within the family, and yet the same family is intended to be the path for both earthly and eternal happiness. The author brings to light vivid examples of how lack of forgiveness causes severe damage while forgiveness heals and restores broken relationships. Finally, he uses the writings of St. Therese of Lisieux to show how trust in God's mercy leads to extraordinary supernatural effects in one's life and in the lives of those one touches.

Real Mercy: Mary, Forgiveness and Trust

When we think of famous persons in history we usually remember their great deeds in the areas of science, politics, art, etc. But for some, their greatest achievement in life was not played out before the public, but rather took place within the private sphere of their marriage. The world may remember them for their extraordinary gifts and accomplishments, but they, at the end of their lives, were most mindful of their greatest love: their spouse. 
This book, 16 Marriages That Made History, honors the hidden love adventures of several famous persons in history. It offers concrete examples of historical marriages that transformed these well-known individuals in deep and personal ways. These are not fairy tales of marriages "made in heaven;" they are stories of real people with real struggles, who, through their marriage, were challenged, strengthened, and encouraged to grow in their capacity for love.
In this book, you will learn:

•How marriages can grow stronger through time
•How marriage can provide tremendous strength for facing life's difficulties
•How people with very different personalities can be completely united in marriage
•How one woman's selfless love saved her marriage
•How a queen learned to put her husband and her marriage ahead of power 
•How one couple's united search for truth led them to embrace the Catholic Faith

This book will help to restore your confidence in the power of marriage. It is recommended for those just starting out on their marriage journey as well as for those already well advanced along the path.

16 Marriages That Made History

The St. Josemaria Institute has partnered with iPray with Gospel to bring the popular daily Gospel reflections to life on our podcast. Now you can read and/or listen to the daily reflections during your time of prayer! iPray with the Gospel is especially helpful for those who want to use the Gospel for their daily conversation with Jesus Christ. [ <a href='http://www.stjosemaria.org/ipray-fifth-sunday-of-lent'>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>

iPray With The Gospel | Fifth Sunday of Lent

Fr. Eric Nicolai preached this meditation at Ellerton Centre in Toronto on the 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 30, 2026.Jeremiah is in utter anguish. He feels that he has failed. He’s in doubt. Maybe he has no vocation after all. He&#39;s in an inner crisis. Despite all the suffering he has experienced, he manages to complain to God and abandon himself to his healing.Jeremiah 20, 7-9: Seduxisti me, Domine, et seductus sum.You enticed me Lord, you persuaded me; you duped me, I felt duped. You overcame my resistance to your call, your all-encompassing vocation, your mission you have imposed on me. You chose me because you picked me out, you saw me like a wounded stag, and you loved me. Music: Lifting Dreams - Aakash Gandhi Youtube freeThumbnail: Rembrandt, Jeremiah Lamenting the Destruction of Jerusalem, 1630, Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

Jeremiah's Lament: My Heart Burns Within Me

To err is human. But because we are social beings, our mistakes often harm others in small and not-so-small ways. We have all given or received wounds that need the healing power of forgiveness. This is easier said than done, however. Many would like to forgive, but just can't seem to do it. And they continue to suffer the bitterness and the lack of peace that comes from unforgiven injuries. 
 In Wounds in the Heart, Dr. Javier Schlatter leads us out of this conundrum and into a deeper understanding of the healing power of forgiveness and its importance in our lives. He explains what forgiveness is, what it is not, and how to experience its healing power in our lives. He also looks at the impact of forgiveness on health and the keys to forgiveness in marriage. His insights are practical but also provide a deeper understanding of forgiveness that goes well beyond a superficial self-help book. 
 Dr. Schlatter is Assistant Director of the Department of Psychiatry and Medical Psychology at the University of Navarre Medical Clinic. He is the author of several books on anxiety and stress and is a specialist in emotional disorders and the biological basis of depression and phobias.

Wounds in the Heart: The Healing Power of Forgiveness

Why is it so hard to pray without distraction? Why does our mind wander to everything except God when we kneel to speak with him? And what do we do with the flood of thoughts that seem to overtake us in the very act of prayer?
In this deeply contemplative yet practical book, Fr. John Henry Hanson takes us on a journey through the battleground of the mind, where attention, memory, and imagination often seem like saboteurs to prayer. Drawing on Scripture, the Desert Fathers, saints like Teresa of Avila and Augustine, and insights from modern psychology, this book offers not a quick fix, but something far better: a quiet revolution against wayward thoughts, a spiritual reorientation toward God.
Fr. Hanson helps readers to understand how God meets us even in mental chaos: how he works not despite our distractions, but sometimes through them. Along the way, readers will discover the role of grace in thought-life, how to respond to distraction, and what it means to have ""the mind of Christ."" With lyrical clarity, theological depth, and a pastoral heart, this book becomes not merely a guide to prayer, but a companion in it. "

The Fire and the Silence

A young man's late teens and early twenties are often undervalued as times of amorphous self-discovery. But it doesn't have to be that way. What is often considered a period to determine what a young man will do is better used as an opportunity to shape the more important matter of who he will be. Men who are considered great are those of integrity: men who have unified their intentions, words, and actions, and chosen to be guided by the time-tested virtues of sound judgment, responsibility, courage, self-mastery, and respect for others. Success hinges not only on the major decisions a young man makes, but also on the everyday choices. 
 Culled from the wisdom of ordinary men who have gone before, this collection of practical advice tackles everything from the books one reads, to the friends he surrounds himself with, to the way he presents himself in social situations. When a young man takes these lessons to heart, he can be sure to become a man of great character, one who can joyfully and faithfully serve his family, his society, and ultimately, his God.

To Be a Man: Life Lessons for Young Men

Prologue

Chapter 1: Aquila and Priscilla

Chapter 2: Plutarch and Timoxena

Chapter 3: Louis IX of France and Marguerite of Provence

Chapter 4: Elizabeth of Hungary and Louis of Thuringia

Chapter 5: Isabella of Castile and Ferdinand of Aragon

Chapter 6: Thomas More and Jane Colt; later Alice Middleton

Chapter 7: Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

Chapter 8: Nicholas II of Russia and Alexandra Feodorovna 

Chapter 9: Pierre Curie and Sklodowska de Curie

Chapter 10: G.K. Chesterton and Frances Blogg

Chapter 11: Jacques Maritain and Raïssa Oumançoff 

Chapter 12: Antonio Machado and Leonor Izquierdo

Chapter 13: Charles of Austria and Zita of Bourbón-Parma

Chapter 14: André Maurois and Jeanne-Marie de Szymkiewicz

Chapter 15: J.R.R. Tolkien and Edith Bratt 

Chapter 16: Fabiola de Mora of Aragón and Baudouin I of Belgium

When we think of famous persons in history we usually remember their great deeds in the areas of science, politics, art, etc. But for some, their greatest achievement in life was not played out before the public, but rather took place within the private sphere of their marriage. The world may remember them for their extraordinary gifts and accomplishments, but they, at the end of their lives, were most mindful of their greatest love: their spouse.
This book, 16 Marriages That Made History, honors the hidden love adventures of several famous persons in history. It offers concrete examples of historical marriages that transformed these well-known individuals in deep and personal ways. These are not fairy tales of marriages &ldquo;made in heaven;&rdquo; they are stories of real people with real struggles, who, through their marriage, were challenged, strengthened, and encouraged to grow in their capacity for love.
In this book, you will learn:
<ul>
<li>How marriages can grow stronger through time</li>
<li>How marriage can provide tremendous strength for facing life&rsquo;s difficulties</li>
<li>How people with very different personalities can be completely united in marriage</li>
<li>How one woman&rsquo;s selfless love saved her marriage</li>
<li>How a queen learned to put her husband and her marriage ahead of power&nbsp;</li>
<li>How one couple&rsquo;s united search for truth led them to embrace the Catholic Faith</li>
</ul>
This book will help to restore your confidence in the power of marriage. It is recommended for those just starting out on their marriage journey as well as for those already well advanced along the path.