Episodes
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In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens and Dave Plisky discuss the ongoing impact of a study on intentional discipleship, the importance of spiritual direction, and the launch of the Religion to Reality webinar series. They explore the findings of the study, including the barriers to evangelization and the need for community and ongoing formation. The conversation highlights the significance of integrating faith into daily life and the generational differences in discipleship, emphasizing the need for in-person community engagement.
Takeaways
Spiritual direction plays a crucial role in personal growth. The study revealed that many Catholics are comfortable sharing their faith but do not do so. There is a strong interest in deeper faith formation among Catholics. The Religion to Reality webinar series aims to unpack the study's findings. Community and ongoing formation are essential for discipleship. Generational differences impact how faith is experienced and shared. Retreats and dedicated time for contemplation are vital for spiritual growth. The youngest generations crave in-person community despite being digital natives.Integration of faith into daily life is necessary for true discipleship. The webinar series will evolve into a podcast for further exploration.Sound Bites
"You need a spiritual director." "We want to have an integrated life." "Spiritual direction is a relatively new thing." "Prayer has to precede action." "We must continue to accompany." "Make retreats more of a thing." "We want to journey together." "The youngest generations are the most hungry for community." "Check out the webinar series."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Growth
04:14 Understanding the Study and Its Findings
09:52 Religion to Reality Webinar Series
17:49 Insights on Spiritual Direction
23:57 The Importance of Community and Ongoing Formation
31:59 Generational Differences in Discipleship
39:53 Conclusion and Call to Action
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In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens shares her personal journey of faith and grief as her husband battles lung cancer. She reflects on the significance of the liturgical feasts of All Saints Day, All Souls Day, and the Communion of Saints, emphasizing the importance of striving for holiness, deepening one's love for God, and the power of prayer and intercession for the departed. Christina discusses the necessity of real effort in faith, the role of sacrifice, and the impact of indulgences, encouraging listeners to live in the present and act with intention to fulfill their spiritual mission.
Takeaways
Christina shares her personal journey of grief and faith. The Communion of Saints consists of the Church Militant, Triumphant, and Suffering. Real effort is required to strive for holiness and win the crown. Deepening love for God is essential for a meaningful spiritual life. Prayer is crucial for strengthening faith and hope. Intercession for the living and the dead is a vital practice. Sacrifice and mortification can aid in saving souls. Indulgences can be obtained through acts of mercy and prayer. Living in the present is key to fulfilling our spiritual mission. We are created to become saints and fulfill God's will.Sound Bites
"The future is not in our hands." "We need to seize today." "We are created to become holy."Chapters
00:00 Journey Through Grief and Faith
06:06 The Importance of Real Effort in Faith
11:51 Intercession and Sacrifice for Souls
22:11 Living in the Present and Seizing the Day
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In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens speaks with Thomas W. Carroll, founder of the Catholic Talent Project, about the alarming trend of young people leaving the Catholic faith. They discuss the importance of strong leadership in Catholic education, the need for faithful educators, and the mission of Catholic schools to draw children closer to God. Carroll shares insights from his own faith journey and the initiatives he is implementing to recruit and train passionate teachers who can serve as witnesses of faith in the classroom. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of Catholic identity in education and the urgent need for a renewed commitment to evangelization within the Church.
Takeaways
The Catholic Talent Project aims to address the crisis of faith among youth. By age 13, almost half of Catholic children lose their faith. Leadership in Catholic schools is crucial for maintaining faith. Catholic schools should focus on drawing children closer to God. Recruiting faithful educators is essential for Catholic identity. Witnesses in the classroom are more effective than traditional teachers. The Church risks going the way of Europe if youth faith is not preserved. Faithful young people are needed to refresh the Church. The curriculum must integrate God at the center of education. Creating a faith community among educators enhances spiritual growth.Sound Bites
"We need to put a witness in every single classroom." "The primary purpose of a Catholic school is to draw children closer to God." "We have to have constantly the church refreshed with faithful young people."Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Catholic Talent Project
06:29 Thomas Carroll's Faith Journey and Background
11:19 Strengthening Catholic Identity in Education
16:09 Recruiting and Cultivating Talent in Catholic Schools
21:56 The Importance of Witness in Catholic Education
28:08 Challenges Facing Catholic Education Today
33:46 The Future of Catholic Education and Leadership
41:31 Inspiration from the Next Generation of Catholics
46:43 Getting Involved with the Catholic Talent Project
51:36 Leaving Suggestions for Upcoming Podcasts
To learn more about The Catholic Talent Project, go to: https://catholictalentproject.org/
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In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens discusses the significance of praying the Rosary, emphasizing its power in personal and communal prayer. She encourages listeners to deepen their commitment to this practice, especially in the context of family life and intercession for others. Christina shares personal experiences and insights from saints and popes, highlighting the transformative effects of the Rosary in bringing peace, joy, and grace into our lives and the lives of those around us.
Takeaways
Praying the Rosary is essential for spiritual growth. The Rosary brings joy to heaven and impacts the Communion of Saints. Family prayer strengthens bonds and fosters gratitude. Pray the Rosary with faith, humility, confidence, and perseverance. The Rosary is a powerful tool for intercession and peace. Mary leads us to Jesus through the Rosary. Establishing a family Rosary can enhance family life. The Rosary can help solve personal and communal problems. Regular Rosary prayer can transform your spiritual life. The Rosary is a spiritual super weapon in today's world.Sound Bites
"Praying the Rosary brings joy to heaven."
"The Rosary is a spiritual super weapon."
"There is no problem that cannot be solved by the Rosary."
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of the Rosary
08:10 Family and Community in Prayer
14:18 Praying with Faith and Humility
24:40 The Rosary as a Spiritual Super Weapon
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In this conversation, Christina Semmens interviews Laura Huval about her music ministry and her latest project, 'Sing the Rosary.' Laura shares her faith journey, the inspiration behind her music, and how she aims to bring people closer to Jesus through the Rosary. The discussion highlights the power of music in prayer and the importance of spiritual growth, as well as the hopes for the impact of her project on the community.
Takeaways
Laura Huval's music is a tool for evangelization. The Rosary can be experienced in new ways through music. Personal faith journeys often intertwine with musical experiences. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in creative inspiration. Music can help overcome barriers to prayer. The project aims to foster peace and conversion of souls. Daily practices like the Rosary can lead to spiritual growth. Community support is vital for ministry work. Being open to new modalities of prayer can enhance faith. Identity as a child of God is foundational for spiritual life.Sound Bites
"Go and check out Sing the Rosary."
"Sharing the gospel one song at a time."
"Bring people closer to Jesus through Mary."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
04:03 Faith Journey and Musical Influence
07:26 The Call to Music Ministry
10:21 Creating the Rosary in Song
13:11 Experiencing the Rosary Through Music
16:03 Challenges in Musical Composition
19:25 The Impact of the Rosary
22:00 Personal Growth Through Music
25:08 Conclusion and Resources
29:58 Introduction to Sing the Rosary
30:29 The Mission of Conversion and Peace
To learn more about Laura Huval and his music, go to: https://laurahuval.com/rosary
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In this episode of Say Yes to Holiness, Christina Semmens shares her personal journey as she navigates her husband's terminal cancer diagnosis and the transition to hospice care. She reflects on the importance of spiritual warfare, the power of prayer, and the necessity of choosing love amidst life's trials. Christina emphasizes the ongoing battle between good and evil, urging listeners to remain steadfast in their faith and to engage in prayer as a means of spiritual combat.
Takeaways
Christina shares her husband's transition to hospice care. The importance of being present during difficult times. St. Francis de Sales offers a battle strategy against doubt. Prayer is a form of spiritual warfare. Choosing love is a daily commitment amidst trials. Trials are opportunities for growth in virtue. We must trust in God's plan even in suffering. The Rosary is a powerful tool for spiritual combat. We are part of a larger battle between good and evil. God permits trials to bring about good in our lives.Sound Bites
"Prayer is warfare to the last breath." "We have to choose to love one another."Chapters
00:00 Journey Through Terminal Illness
09:14 Spiritual Warfare and Prayer
14:19 Choosing Love Amidst Trials
21:12 Confronting the Battle of Good and Evil
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In this crossover episode of the Say Yes to Holiness and The Catholic Leadership Puzzle podcasts, Christina Semmens interviews Hans Platt, founder of Vinea Research, discussing his journey of faith, the importance of accurate data in understanding Catholic beliefs, particularly regarding the Eucharist, and the transformative power of faith in personal and professional life. They explore the challenges and rewards of working within the Catholic community and the significance of language in conveying religious truths.
Takeaways
Hans Plate's journey from lukewarm Catholicism to a passionate faith.
The impact of Jeff Cavins' scripture teachings on Hans' faith.
Vinea Research aims to provide insights for Catholic organizations.
Language used in surveys can significantly affect belief reporting.
The recent study showed a higher belief in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist than previously reported.
Accurate data is crucial for understanding and improving faith practices.
The importance of personal connections and invitations in faith development.
Hans emphasizes the need for Catholic organizations to conduct their own research.
The role of spiritual direction in personal growth and faith.
God's timing in one's faith journey is always perfect.
Sound Bites
"Ignorance of scriptures is ignorance of faith."
"Language matters to identify truth."
"I feel like I'm doing work that matters."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Faith and Research
05:14 Journey of Faith and Transformation
10:02 The Role of Vinea Research
14:56 Understanding Belief in the Eucharist
19:52 The Importance of Accurate Data
24:46 Personal Reflections and Challenges
30:01 Advice to the Younger Self
34:51 Conclusion and Resources
For more information about Vinea Research, go to: https://www.vinearesearch.com/
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In this episode of the Say Yes to Holiness podcast, Christina Semmens discusses the challenges of living out one's faith amidst daily struggles. She emphasizes the importance of making choices in difficult situations—whether to change, accept, or exit—and how faith, hope, and love play crucial roles in these decisions. Drawing on the lives of saints like Elizabeth Ann Seton and Therese of Lisieux, Christina encourages listeners to practice favorable judgments and to engage deeply with the sacraments as a means of growing in love and virtue.
Takeaways
Perseverance is key in living out our faith. We face three choices in difficult situations: change, accept, or exit. Faith, hope, and love are essential virtues in our lives. God's grace is necessary for making good choices. We should trust in God's goodness amidst struggles. Practicing favorable judgments can transform our relationships. The sacraments provide us with the grace to grow in love. Small acts of love can have a significant impact. Inviting Mary into our lives can help us grow closer to Jesus. We can choose to respond to challenges with love.Sound Bites
"Satan is in charge of technology." "We always are confronting different things." "We have to trust in the Lord's goodness."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges
02:25 The Three Choices in Life: Change, Accept, or Exit
10:40 The Role of Faith, Hope, and Love
17:13 Practicing Favorable Judgments
20:50 The Little Way of Love and Sacrifice
May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast conversation, Christina has a conversation with Susan Windley-Daoust, Executive Director, of the Mark 5:19 Project. Susan discusses her journey and the launch of the Mark 5:19 project, a nonprofit apostolate aimed at helping parishes become evangelizing communities.
In their conversation, Susan emphasizes the importance of prayer and courage in sharing the Gospel and encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones and engage with others in conversations about faith. She also highlights the need for a culture change in the Church, where evangelization becomes a natural part of our lives and relationships. Finally, she suggests practical steps, such as forming small groups and fostering meaningful conversations within families, to help foster parish renewal.
Takeaways
Prayer and discernment are essential in the process of parish renewal and evangelization. Every Catholic, regardless of their role in the Church, can share the Gospel and be a witness to God's love. Parish renewal requires a culture change, where evangelization becomes a natural part of our lives and relationships. Creating spaces for meaningful conversations and fostering small groups can help facilitate the sharing of faith. We need to be willing to step out of our comfort zones and engage with others in conversations about faith and hope. The purpose of the Mark 5:19 project is to support parishes in their journey towards becoming evangelizing communities.Sound Bites"
"The first thing I would recommend, whether you're average person in the pew or the pastor of the church, is to pray." "We need to be converted to God's people and be the bearers of the good news." "The first time is hard, the second time is uncomfortable, and the third time you're there."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Susan's Journey
08:29 The Genesis of the Mark 519 Project
14:16 The Role of the Average Person in Parish Renewal
17:04 Creating a Culture of Evangelization
22:13 Fostering Meaningful Conversations and Small Groups
25:01 Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zones
34:27 The Mark 5:19 Project: Supporting Parishes in Evangelization
To learn more about the Mark 5:19 Project, go to: https://mark519project.org/
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The Say Yes to Holiness podcast seeks to provide Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help inspire, encorage and accompany you on the journey towards holiness...
In this episode, Christina Semmens discusses the importance of drawing closer to the Lord, particularly through the Eucharist. She shares the benefits and graces that come from receiving the Eucharist, such as comfort, strength, and enrichment. Christina also emphasizes the need to trust in God's plan and to use our gifts and talents to serve Him and others. She encourages listeners to have faith, hope, and perseverance, even in difficult times. The episode concludes with resolutions to ask for Mary's intercession, to avoid comparing oneself to others, and to look for the miraculous in everyday life.
Takeaways
Frequent reception of the Eucharist allows us to receive the graces and benefits that we need in various situations. In difficult times, God provides comfort, strength, and the weapons to fight against the challenges we face. We should trust in God's plan and have faith, hope, and perseverance, even when we don't understand His timing. Each person has unique gifts and talents that should be used to serve God and others. Instead of comparing ourselves to others, we should focus on fulfilling our personal mission and being who God created us to be. We should seek Mary's intercession and ask for her help in growing in faith and enduring through struggles. It is important to recognize and appreciate the miraculous ways in which God cares for us in our daily lives.Sound Bites
"Drawing close to our Lord, particularly in the Eucharist." "Let us open the door of His sacred and adorable heart and be wrapped about for an instant by the flames of His love." "He will give you the weapons with which to fight, to resist, and to win victory."Chapters
00:00 Drawing Closer to God Through the Eucharist
03:50 The Benefits and Graces of Receiving the Eucharist
08:45 Trusting in God's Plan and Using Our Gifts
20:27 Faith, Hope, and Perseverance in Difficult Times
26:43 Fulfilling Our Personal Mission and Avoiding Comparison
27:12 Seeking Mary's Intercession and Growing in Faith
May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast conversation, Christina Summary has a conversation with Leah Jacobson. She discusses her journey and the new program she is managing called Catholic Women's and Gender Studies. She shares how her upbringing on a dairy farm and how her Catholic faith shaped her understanding of the natural order and the importance of women's bodies. Leah also talks about her experience in college, where she realized the differences in perspectives on gender and women's rights which led her to question the mainstream feminist movement and advocate for a Catholic feminism that aligns with the teachings of the Church.
Leah founded the Guiding Star Project, a nonprofit that focuses on holistic women's health and supports women's bodies. She then explains the new Master's program in Catholic Women's and Gender Studies at the University of St. Thomas, Houston, which aims to provide a Christian anthropology and worldview in the study of gender and sexuality.
The program is divided into four certificates: Catholic feminism, women's health and wellness, gender and family policy, and sexuality and gender. Leah hopes that graduates of the program will be able to speak truthfully and charitably about women's issues and contribute to the restoration of the natural order in society.
Takeaways
Leah Jacobson's upbringing on a dairy farm and her Catholic faith shaped her understanding of the natural order and the importance of women's bodies. She questioned the mainstream feminist movement and advocated for a Catholic feminism that aligns with the teachings of the Church. Leah founded the Guiding Star Project, a nonprofit that focuses on holistic women's health and supports women's bodies. The master's program in Catholics, Women's, and Gender Studies at the University of St. Thomas provides a Christian anthropology and worldview in the study of gender and sexuality.Sound Bites
"I never understood how women should take all of this onto ourselves and sort of excuse men from the conversation." "Misogyny is the alteration and the suppression and the destruction of a female body." "The effects that it's having are so detrimental on our daughters' generations, on all of us. It's destroying our identity as women."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:41 Questioning the Mainstream Feminist Movement
08:55 Advocating for Catholic Feminism
12:47 The Guiding Star Project: Supporting Holistic Women's Health
16:35 The Master's Program in Catholics, Women's, and Gender Studies
25:42 The Rewards and Challenges of the Work
28:37 Finding Grounding in Nature
29:33 Advice to Her 18-Year-Old Self
31:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
To learn more about the Master's in Catholic Women's & Gender Studies, go to: www.catholicgenderstudies.com
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In this episode, Christina reflects on the value of community and the importance of journeying together on the pilgrimage of life. She emphasizes the power of shared beliefs and the unity that comes from professing our faith together. Christina also discusses the significance of going on physical pilgrimages to holy places and how they can enrich our spiritual lives. She encourages listeners to make time for the sacraments, prayer, and personal reflection. Finally, she reminds us that our pilgrimage on earth is not exempt from trials, but through trust in God, we can overcome and receive the crown of salvation.
Takeaways
Community is essential for us to become fully who we are created to be and to achieve greatness.
Shared beliefs and professing our faith together bring unity and power.
Physical pilgrimages to holy places can enrich our spiritual lives and help us connect with the Communion of Saints.
Making time for the sacraments, prayer, and personal reflection is crucial for our spiritual growth.
Trials are a part of our pilgrimage on earth, but through trust in God, we can overcome and receive the crown of salvation.
Sound Bites
"Community, in order to be able to become fully who we are created to be, and also for us to achieve the greatness, even in the eyes of the world, it takes a community."
"We forget how important it is that we have commonly held beliefs."
"When we profess our faith and we do it in union with others, we can achieve miracles."
Chapters
00:00 The Value of Community and the Pilgrimage of Life
01:29 The Power of Shared Beliefs and Professing Our Faith Together
08:22 Enriching Our Spiritual Lives Through Physical Pilgrimages
09:02 Making Time for the Sacraments, Prayer, and Personal Reflection
23:05 Overcoming Trials and Receiving the Crown of Salvation
May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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In this Say Yes to Holiness podcast conversation, Christina Summary has a conversation with Joel Stepanek, Vice President of Programming and Administration for the National Eucharistic Congress. Their conversation touches upon the Eucharistic revival, pilgrimage, and upcoming Congress.
Joel shares highlights from his own faith journey and emphasizes the importance of integrating faith into daily life. He speaks about how the National Eucharistic Congress was conceived to reinvigorate Eucharistic belief among Catholics, and the pilgrimage was designed to bring Jesus to people who may not be able to attend the Congress.
Joel encourages listeners to follow along remotely and participate in their own personal pilgrimage. The goal of the revival and Congress is to inspire missionary Eucharistic belief and see an increase in mass attendance and community engagement.
Takeaways
Integrating faith into daily life is essential for a vibrant and dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ. The National Eucharistic Congress aims to reinvigorate Eucharistic belief among Catholics. The pilgrimage brings Jesus to people who may not be able to attend the Congress, allowing them to encounter the Lord. Listeners can participate remotely by making their own personal pilgrimage and following along on social media. The goal of the revival and Congress is to inspire missionary Eucharistic belief and see an increase in mass attendance and community engagement.Sound Bites
"Integrating faith into daily life is essential" "The National Eucharistic Congress aims to reinvigorate Eucharistic belief" "The pilgrimage brings Jesus to people who may not be able to attend the Congress"Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:49 The National Eucharistic Congress and Revival
12:18 The Power of Pilgrimage
21:51 Inspiring Missionary Eucharistic Belief
To learn more about the Eucharistic Revival, go to: https://www.eucharisticrevival.org/
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The Say Yes to Holiness podcast seeks to provide Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help inspire, encorage and accompany you on the journey towards holiness...
In this episode, Christina reflects on the National Eucharistic Congress and the importance of focusing on our Eucharistic Lord, especially when things don't go according to plan. She emphasizes the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and the need to set aside doubts and trust in Him.
Christina also discusses the role of friendship and how we can be Christ to others by being patient, sympathetic, and attentive. She encourages listeners to turn to Jesus and make their requests known to Him, knowing that He is always there for us.
Finally, she reminds us that the Eucharist is a glimpse of heaven on earth and challenges us to be Eucharistic missionaries, shining the light of Christ to others.
Takeaways
Trust in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist and set aside doubts
Be a friend to others, listening and providing counsel and help
Turn to Jesus and make your requests known to Him
The Eucharist is a glimpse of heaven on earth
Be a Eucharistic missionary, shining the light of Christ to others
Sound Bites
"He is truly present. The Body and Blood of Christ is truly present. Body, Blood, His Soul, and His Divinity are present before us."
"He accommodates Himself to our weakness. In heaven, where we shall be glorious and triumphant, we shall see Him in all His glory."
"He always has a refuge where quietude and peace can again be found."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: National Eucharistic Congress and the Importance of Focusing on the Eucharistic Lord
03:05 Trusting in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist
08:54 Being a Friend and Bringing Others to Christ
13:24 Turning to Jesus and Making Our Requests Known
21:03 The Eucharist: A Glimpse of Heaven on Earth
25:24 Being Eucharistic Missionaries: Shining the Light of Christ
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The Say Yes to Holiness podcast seeks to provide Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help inspire, encorage and accompany you on the journey towards holiness...
In this episode, Christina discusses the importance of continuing to grow in our relationship with God during Ordinary Time. She emphasizes the need for consistency, perseverance, and the cultivation of four habits: daily prayer and meditation, frequenting the sacraments, growing in virtue, and abandoning ourselves to God's will. She also explores the concepts of finding God, the importance of patience, and the process of detachment. She also offers practical suggestions like the daily examen, devotion to the Sacred Heart, cultivating patience, and seeking Mary's intercession.
Takeaways
Consistency and perseverance are key to growing in our relationship with God during ordinary time. Four habits to cultivate are daily prayer and meditation, frequenting the sacraments, growing in virtue, and abandoning ourselves to God's will. Everyone is either looking for God or has found Him and is deepening their relationship with Him. Pride can hinder our ability to recognize and accept the truth of God's love and presence in our lives. Patience is essential for navigating difficulties and avoiding burnout. Detachment is about loving things and people in a way that allows us to let go and focus on God. Practical suggestions include daily examination, devotion to the Sacred Heart, cultivating patience through humility, faith, and joy, and seeking Mary's intercession.Sound Bites
"We need to be constant, we need to persevere." "Everyone is looking for God. Either they found him and continuing that search to deepen their relationship, or they're thirsting and hungering and seeking him still." "We have to make room for God. If we think we have all the answers, if we think we've got it all together, if we think that we don't need God, then we're that much farther away from finding that peace and that joy and that salvation that God is waiting to give us."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Importance of Growing in Relationship with God During Ordinary Time
03:23 The Importance of Consistency and Perseverance
04:21 Finding God and the Role of Sinners
08:06 Overcoming Pride to Recognize God's Presence
14:47 The Power of Patience in Navigating Difficulties
26:35 Practical Suggestions for Spiritual Growth
29:00 Conclusion and Seeking Mary's Intercession
May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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Sister Alicia Torres of the Franciscans of Eucharist of Chicago discusses her journey of faith and the work she is doing with the National Eucharistic Revival. She highlights the importance of the family in the journey of discipleship and shares her own experiences of daily Mass and commitment to the pro-life movement. Sister Alicia also talks about the Eucharistic Revival and the National Eucharistic Congress, emphasizing the need for authentic encounter with the Holy Eucharist and the importance of being a Eucharistically centered community. She encourages individuals and parishes to participate in the revival through prayer, adoration, and service.
Takeaways
The family plays a crucial role in the journey of discipleship.
Encounter with the Holy Eucharist is essential for deepening one's relationship with God.
Being a Eucharistically centered community involves recognizing the sacrifice of Christ and living a life of self-gift.
Participation in the Eucharistic Revival can be through prayer, adoration, and service.
Praying for bishops and priests is important, as they are instrumental in the celebration of the Eucharist.
Personal habits and practices, such as quiet time and creative activities, can contribute to one's journey towards holiness.
Sound Bites
"The family plays a crucial role in the journey of discipleship."
"Encounter with the Holy Eucharist is essential for deepening one's relationship with God."
"Being a Eucharistically centered community involves recognizing the sacrifice of Christ and living a life of self-gift."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:16 Similar Journeys and the Importance of the Church Community
04:15 The National Eucharistic Revival and the Eucharistic Congress
09:41 Participating in the Eucharistic Revival
13:26 Praying for Bishops and Priests
29:44 Closing Remarks and Invitation
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The Say Yes to Holiness podcast seeks to provide Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help inspire, encorage and accompany you on the journey towards holiness...
In this episode, Christina discusses the importance of the Holy Spirit in our journey towards holiness. She emphasizes the need to be aware of the Holy Spirit's presence and to invite Him into our lives. Semmens also highlights the role of prayer in forming virtues, suppressing negative emotions, and drawing us closer to God. She encourages listeners to prioritize prayer and trust in God's plan. Additionally, Semmens explores the concept of detachment, obedience, and trust, using Mary as an example. She concludes by offering resolutions for listeners to deepen their relationship with the Holy Spirit and grow in holiness.
Takeaways
Be aware of the Holy Spirit's presence and invite Him into your life Prioritize prayer to form virtues and suppress negative emotions Practice detachment, obedience, and trust in God's plan Seek inspiration from Mary's example of detachment, obedience, and trust Make resolutions to deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit and grow in holinessSound Bites
"The Holy Spirit is the life of our souls" "Virtues are formed by prayer" "The Holy Spirit is a master craftsman who fashions living stones into a spiritual temple"May this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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In this Say Yes to Holiness 1:1 Conversation podcast, Christina speaks with Karen Stiller, author of 'Holiness Here'. In their conversation, they discuss the importance of holiness in everyday life.
Karen shares her own faith journey and how she was inspired by her husband's commitment to holiness. She also emphasizes the need for honesty and transparency in our spiritual growth and encourages readers to believe in their own holiness. Karen suggests practical steps such as sitting in a room and affirming, 'I am holy', and being open to opportunities for acts of love and forgiveness. Finally, Karen also highlights the power of community and accountability in our journey towards holiness.
Takeaways
Holiness is not just for the 'perfect', but for everyone. We are called to participate in our own transformation and believe in our belovedness. Practical steps towards holiness include affirming our holiness, being open to acts of love and forgiveness, and growing through both love and hardship. Honesty and transparency are essential in our spiritual growth. Sharing our struggles and mistakes with others creates a space for growth and accountability. Reading spiritual books and engaging in spiritual practices can deepen our understanding of holiness and support our journey towards sanctity. Believing in our own holiness and embracing the journey of growth can bring meaning and purpose to our faith.Sound Bites
"We want to change and we want to know that this life of faith is an adventure." "Holiness is transforming union with God." "We are holy, but then we get to do holy and then we will grow."Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
01:00 Karen's Faith Journey and Vocation as a Writer
07:12 Redefining Holiness and Embracing the Journey
15:09 Discussing Holiness Differently to Propel Growth
23:04 Moving Beyond Messiness and Brokenness
26:50 Practical Steps Towards Holiness
29:38 The Power of Honesty and Accountability
35:10 Closing Remarks and Contact Information
To learn more about Karen and her work, go to: www.karenstiller.com
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The Say Yes to Holiness podcast seeks to provide Food for the Head, Heart, Hands and Feet to help inspire, encorage and accompany you on the journey towards holiness...
In this episode, Christina Semmens discusses the significance of the Holy Spirit in our lives and how we can embrace the waiting period before Pentecost. She emphasizes the importance of stripping our intellect of passions in order to be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Semmens also highlights the role of the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, in nourishing our souls and allowing the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. She encourages listeners to do good deeds with love, asking for Mary's intercession, and to remain steadfast in their faith despite the imperfections of the Church.
Takeaways
Stripping our intellect of passions allows us to be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The sacraments, especially the Eucharist, nourish our souls and allow the Holy Spirit to dwell within us. Doing good deeds with love, through the intercession of Mary, is essential. Despite the imperfections of the Church, we should remain steadfast in our faith and trust that God will reform His Church according to His will.Sound Bites
"When our intellect, our reason, is stripped of the passions, then we are truly open to the Holy Spirit." "The Holy Spirit brings Jesus to you, for example, for you to consume body, blood, soul, and divinity." "Without love, deeds, even those that seem quite extraordinary count as nothing."Chapters
00:00 Embracing the Waiting Period Before Pentecost 08:48 Nourishing Our Souls Through the Sacraments 15:15 Doing Good Deeds with LoveMay this podcast help inspire, encourage and accompany you in doing WHATEVER IT TAKES so that you may continue to grow in holiness as we tell the Master of Death, “Not Today!”
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In this episode, Christina speaks with Rachel Balducci, a writer and co-host of the GIST on Catholic TV, shares her journey of finding her identity and purpose as a wife and mother. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our worth and identity come from being known and loved by God. Rachel also discusses the power of prayer and the need to create sacred spaces to connect with the Lord. She encourages women to find their unique gifts and wait on God's timing, rather than trying to do everything at once. Rachel's work as a writer has allowed her to share her personal experiences and lessons learned, while also inspiring others.
Takeaways
Our worth and identity come from being known and loved by God.
Create sacred spaces and spend time in prayer to connect with the Lord.
Recognize and embrace your unique gifts, and wait on God's timing.
Share your personal experiences and lessons learned to inspire others.
Sound Bites
"I'm a mom. That's my primary vocation."
"We're too quick to let our identity come from the things we do."
"You have value beyond measure."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:28 Rachel's Journey to Being a Writer and Co-Host
05:15 The Importance of Recognizing Our Worth and Identity
09:03 Discovering Passion and Adventure in Life
14:31 The Power of Prayer and Creating Sacred Spaces
25:41 Finding Peace and Truth in Prayer
29:03 Advice to Her 18-Year-Old Self
32:23 Conclusion and Where to Find Rachel's Work
www.rachelbalducci.com
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