Episodes
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What happens when a high school breakdancer feels the tug of a divine calling? Listen in as Sister Mary Gianna Casino of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Missionary Sisters takes us through her extraordinary journey of faith, from her teenage passion for breakdancing to her profound work with the dying and bereaved. Sister Gianna opens up about her background in counseling and psychotherapy, the unique love story of her parents, and the sustaining power of gratitude in times of grief. This episode is filled with heartfelt moments, personal anecdotes, and spiritual reflections that will leave you inspired and uplifted.
We also explore the balance between personal interests and spiritual callings, with Sister Gianna sharing her high school challenges, love for dance, and the ongoing intrigue of a religious vocation. She discusses the transformative commitment to religious life, the importance of daily blessings, and her favorite spiritual practices, including the Examen prayer of St. Ignatius. To wrap things up, we touch on the Puffel series inspired by St. John Paul II's Theology of the Body, and Sister Gianna shares a heartfelt prayer for the grace to say yes to God each day. This episode promises to deepen your faith and enrich your spiritual journey.Send us a text
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How do you turn a personal passion into a profound mission of global impact? Clare Byrne, the founder of Imprint Hope, joins us to share her extraordinary journey from a faith-centered upbringing in New Jersey to the heart of Uganda. Inspired by her sister Kate, who has a disability, Clare's path was shaped by her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children with disabilities. Tune in as Clare recounts the divine moments and challenges that led her to establish Imprint Hope, and how her unwavering faith and connection with St. Padre Pio have guided her every step of the way.
In this episode, Clare opens up about the transformative experiences that solidified her calling, including her initial work with the Catholic Medical Mission Board and her eventual return to Uganda to found her nonprofit. Clare's story is a testament to the power of trust and surrender to God's will. Learn how small acts of faith can lead to monumental change and discover ways you can support Imprint Hope by using your unique gifts and talents. This is an episode filled with inspiration, faith, and the remarkable impact of perseverance.Send us a text
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Join us as we sit down with Jerome Placido from San Jose, California, who shares his riveting journey from childhood in the Philippines to becoming a beacon of faith and inspiration in the Catholic community.
Jerome’s story takes a poignant turn as he recounts the challenges of growing up with a single mother and the internal battles he faced regarding the church’s teachings on marriage and purity. His life takes a dramatic shift during a confirmation retreat, where he encounters a supportive community and begins to experience God's love in a way he never imagined.
Finally, learn about Jerome’s transition back to society after a period of religious life, his academic pursuits, and the rekindling of a friendship that blossoms into a meaningful romantic relationship. Discover how his faith and spiritual practices have played an integral role in his marriage and family life. Jerome also shares his involvement with the Catholic tech company Tabella, where he combines his ministry and tech background to help people connect with God through the sacraments. This episode is a compelling exploration of faith, resilience, and the guiding hand of divine providence in Jerome's life.Send us a text
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What happens when a young man raised in a devout Catholic environment faces the very worldly temptations he's been taught to avoid? Augie shares his compelling journey from double-mindedness and addiction to a life dedicated to faith and service. Augie’s story is a testament to the transformative power of divine grace.
In a deeply personal chapter, Augie recounts his time with Icon Ministry founded by Father Rob Galea. A pivotal homily by Father Rob shifted his entire perspective, leading to a vision that symbolized his struggles and ultimate freedom from addiction. Learn how surrounding himself with faithful individuals and committing to a life of holiness has led Augie to a deeper connection with God, shaping his role in the ministry and his approach to everyday life.
Moreover, Augie's transformation didn't stop there. The profound experience of fatherhood has only deepened his relationship with God. Through the trials of overcoming addiction and the joys and responsibilities of parenting, Augie discusses how the unconditional love he has for his children mirrors God's love for us. The episode wraps up with insights into the power of the Holy Spirit, the importance of unity in the church, and a heartfelt appreciation for the Eucharist.Send us a text
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What if the toughest battles you face are the ones within yourself? Join us for a powerful conversation with John Edwards, the executive director and founder of Pew Ministries, as he takes us through his heart-wrenching battle with addiction and his ultimate journey to redemption. Discover how a seemingly successful exterior can hide deep internal struggles, and how John's childhood in Memphis and his Baptist roots influenced his path.
In a series of gripping and brutally honest chapters, John opens up about the destructive power of substance abuse. This episode doesn't shy away from the raw truth, showcasing the internal battles and external consequences that accompany addiction, and the desperate need for change and accountability.
Listen as John recounts his transformative journey toward reconciliation and redemption, supported by his wife Angela and his unwavering faith. This episode underscores the power of vulnerability in men's ministry and the crucial role men play in restoring family values. Through deeply personal stories and inspiring encounters, John emphasizes the necessity for men to reclaim their God-given responsibilities and the enduring strength of family bonds. Don't miss this inspiring narrative of faith, redemption, and the unbreakable power of family.
https://justaguyinthepew.com/Send us a text
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What happens when you combine a deep-rooted Catholic faith, artistic talent, and a resilient spirit? Meet Sam Estrada, a Filipino American illustrator whose journey of faith, creativity, and perseverance is nothing short of inspiring.
Discover the remarkable story of Sam's upbringing in a devout Catholic family and his early aspirations to join the priesthood. From his parents' unwavering support to his transformative mission in Fatima, Portugal, Sam's path was anything but straightforward. A congenital heart condition posed significant challenges but also steered him to unexpected and inspiring turns. Through it all, Sam remained committed to God's will, using art as a universal language to connect and uplift.
The journey takes an even more heartwarming turn as Sam opens up about finding love during the pandemic. With a shared devotion to St. Joseph, divine providence guided him and his wife through time differences and physical distance, leading to a memorable meeting on the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. Their shared mission to inspire others through art and faith comes to life with religious graphic novels, children's books, and parish talks. Join us for this heartfelt episode that underscores faith, resilience, and the power of saying yes to God's will.Send us a text
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What if a simple shift in environment could trigger a profound spiritual awakening? Join us as we talk with Dr. Jared Staudt, a theologian who shares his captivating journey from practical atheism to a life dedicated to faith and theology. This episode promises to enlighten listeners with stories of transformative experiences that shaped Dr. Staudt's path, including his unexpected transfer to a Catholic school and the powerful influence of reading St. Faustina's Diary at a young age.
Listeners will gain insights into Dr. Staudt’s personal and academic milestones, from his early inspirations to his time at Ave Maria University and his impactful year as a foreign exchange student in Poland. Dr. Staudt reveals how these ordinary days were transformed by extraordinary events into a life mission focused on faith, education, and service. His discernment process, from an initial call to priesthood to meeting his future spouse, offers listeners a relatable and inspiring narrative on navigating spiritual callings and God's perfect timing.
We also delve into how prayer and work intertwine to build a faith-centered culture, drawing from monastic practices and the Rule of St. Benedict. Dr. Staudt discusses his involvement with Exodus, an initiative guiding men to greater spiritual freedom, and his latest book, "How the Eucharist Can Save Civilization," released during a time of Eucharistic revival. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone seeking to deepen their faith and understand the transformative power of living a prayerful, mission-driven life.Send us a text
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Ever wondered how unwavering faith and community can spark profound personal transformation? This week, we’re thrilled to introduce Isaac LeBlanc, a Michigan native with an extraordinary journey of faith and devotion. Listen as Isaac reflects on his desire to love others as God does and his curiosity about the apostles' experiences with Jesus, emphasizing the vital role of trust and faith in God’s plan, even when the answers remain elusive.
Join us as we explore the impactful summer mission at Damascus, where Isaac experienced the transformative power of community and faith. Hear heartwarming anecdotes, such as intercessory prayers bringing warmth to cold campers during adoration, demonstrating the tangible effects of faith and prayer. The episode also tackles the challenges Isaac faced when transitioning from a tight-knit community to a secular environment and the crucial role prayer played in maintaining his relationship with God. Wrapping up with reflections on gratitude, love, and the future of the church, this episode offers a heartfelt invitation to deepen your own faith and find inspiration in Isaac’s spiritual journey.Send us a text
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Can a single encounter with the Eucharist alter the course of a life? Join us as Ricky Gonzalez, a worship leader and singer-songwriter from South Florida, shares his profound spiritual journey, rooted in a dramatic encounter at a Steubenville Youth Conference. Ricky opens up about his identity as a beloved son of God.
Ricky’s transformation from a rebellious youth to a passionate worship leader is nothing short of miraculous. Hear how the inspiring stories of the early Church’s martyrs and the structured discipline of the Exodus 90 program reignited his faith and devotion. Ricky's testimony underscores the pivotal role of trust and openness to God's will, with songwriting and scripture becoming the cornerstones of his spiritual growth. His insights into the spiritual dryness and eventual renewal he experienced offer hope and guidance for anyone grappling with their own faith journey.
This episode is a testament to the transformative power of love, trust, and the healing embrace of Jesus. Don’t miss this deeply moving narrative of faith, creativity, and divine inspiration.Send us a text
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What happens when a vibrant "firecracker" from New York City embarks on a heartfelt journey of faith and transformation? This week, we sit down with Alanis, the voice behind the blog, "Sincerely Alanis." Her story is an inspiring blend of personal growth and spiritual awakening, beautifully woven through her reflections on modesty, femininity, and identity. Alanis shares how motherhood and her admiration for Pope St. John Paul II have been pivotal in her transformation.
We dive deep into the transformative process of sanctification through humility. Alanis opens up about the painful yet necessary discomforts of spiritual purification, drawing on biblical wisdom and personal experiences. The role of humility and the guiding intercession of Our Lady are highlighted as essential elements on the path to holiness and spiritual growth.
In our final chapter, Alanis recounts her journey of finding self-worth through Eucharistic adoration and the healing power of aligning one's identity with God's affirming words. She explains how social media became a powerful platform for her evangelism, allowing her to share her faith and love for the Lord from her home. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about faith, identity, and the hope for a future where the church thrives in its true identity.Send us a text
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\Her childhood experiences, marked by both trauma and miraculous survival, unfold to reveal a story laced with forgiveness and a deep-seated trust in God's unwavering presence.
Christina introduces the life-altering Community of the Risen Lord, with its revolutionary four-step prayer method that has reshaped her connection with God. Her profound reflections on key scriptures, notably Romans 8:39, capture the essence of her intimate relationship with Jesus, viewing Him as a brother, lover, and conduit to the Father. The narrative then transitions to her transformative experiences at Encounter Ministries', where amidst the solitude of the pandemic, she found solace, purpose, and a treasured community.
As the conversation cascades toward the horizon of an anticipated conference and the vital work of the Holy Spirit, Christina shares her aspirations for an awakening within Toronto's church community. Our episode culminates with a vision of hope and a call to action for the church to embrace the Holy Spirit's transformative power.Send us a text
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Have you ever sensed the divine in the brushstrokes of a painting ? Join me, David Patterson, as I sit down with Kate Capato, a visionary sacred art painter and dancer from Philadelphia, who weaves her faith into every piece of art she creates. Kate's life is a testament to the transformative power of beauty, rooted in the divine.
This story isn't just about art—it's about the whispers of God in the every day. Kate's story is a tapestry of prayer, inspiration, and a pursuit of heavenly beauty that doesn't shy away from life's intricate details. Kate inspires anyone seeking to infuse their life with purpose and passion. Join us for a conversation that celebrates the intentional strokes of the Creator in life's grand canvas, and discover how small moments can spark profound change.
Use discount code YES15 to get 15% off! https://visualgrace.org/Send us a text
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Brother Vinny, a soon-to-be-ordained Capuchin Franciscan friar, enthralls us with his remarkable journey from a Texas layabout to a beacon of faith in Colorado. Through his story, we explore the life-altering moments that guided him to the path of priesthood, illuminating the transformative power of spiritual readings and the embrace of a supportive community. His reflection on "Abandonment to Divine Providence" by Jean-Pierre de Caussade, coupled with his own experiences, offers profound insights into the essence of faith and commitment.
Brother Vinny recounts his battles with fear and self-doubt, finding solace in scripture that fortified his spirit, ultimately leading him through discernment, religious vows, and the threshold of ordination.
As we draw this episode to a close, we delve into the robust tapestry of religious life, dismantling misconceptions and celebrating the jubilant journey it promises. If your heart is seeking guidance or if you're simply curious about the monastic existence, this dialogue is a treasury of wisdom and hope for anyone discerning their life's calling. Join us in embracing the adventure of faith, where every one of us is invited to respond to a universal summons with courage and joy.Send us a text
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Have you ever felt like your faith was put to the test or wondered how to find solace in prayer during trying times? Thomas Hammen's inspirational journey might illuminate your path. Thomas recounts his Florida upbringing, his days as an SPO missionary, and how simple acts, like his daily short prayer, sustain his profound connection with God. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the challenges and triumphs of faith, intended to offer hope and guidance for those navigating their own spiritual journeys.
Thomas opens up about the transition from adolescence to adulthood, revealing the missteps and the allure of vices that once distanced him from his faith. An extraordinary retreat and the joy witnessed in a friend named Mike became the catalysts for a profound personal meeting with Jesus Christ, marking a pivotal moment in his life.
We then venture deeper, exploring the sustaining role of prayer and its impact on mental well-being within the seminary walls. The conversation extends to practical advice for those experiencing spiritual desolation and the balancing act amidst the distractions of social media. Join us for an exploration of finding God in scripture, the authenticity required in prayer, and the simplicity of making space for divine encounters in everyday life. Thomas Hammen's story isn't just about faith; it's an invitation to weave the divine into the fabric of our daily lives.Send us a text
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When I sat down with Beth Davis of Blessed is She, it wasn't just a conversation—it was a revelation of heart. Her tale embarks from a childhood steeped in faith, to a simple prayer that forms the cornerstone of her daily life.
Ultimately, the essence of our dialogue rests in the profound celebration of the Eucharist. The solace found in daily Mass and the intimate relationship we each cultivate with the sacred heart of Jesus is a gift that transcends time and place. Whether it's feeling at home in a foreign parish or experiencing the kinship of saints both past and present, the global Catholic family emerges as a source of limitless joy and fortitude. Our stories, interwoven with laughter and spiritual insight, invite you to rediscover the Eucharist's role in your journey, and to kindle a faith so radiant it beckons others to its warmth.Send us a text
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From the echoes of an adoration chapel where a young man grapples with his divine calling, to the joyous embrace of marriage and service beyond the seminary walls, Thomas's narrative is one of profound transformation. He unpacks the complexities of discernment, sharing how the seeds sown during his seminary years blossomed into a fulfilling role in campus ministry. It's a testament to the beauty in the unexpected, the discernment of God's voice amidst life's cacophony, and the courage it takes to follow that call.
Our conversation with Thomas doesn't just explore his story, but also extends an invitation to all, highlighting the universal call to holiness that beckons each of us. He lays bare the signs of a vocation lived fully, inspiring us to lean into our talents and contribute to the sanctification of ourselves and others. Emboldened by examples like Father Mike Schmitz and the victory already secured by Christ, we close this chapter hopeful for the church's future, and for the individual paths to holiness we are all journeying upon. Join us for an episode that's much more than a story—it's an exploration of faith, vocation, and the resonance between them.Send us a text
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Today's episode is more than a conversation; it's an expedition into the heart of a movement driven by faith and innovation. We navigate the digital landscape through the eyes of our guest, a filmmaker and youth minister who found their calling in the beatification of Blessed Carlo Acutis and their passion for storytelling.
John recounts his faith journey, from playful explorations of green screen technology to profound moments of prayer in the most unexpected places, like a dusty cave. Witness the transformation from a production assistant navigating the challenges of secular film sets to a visionary embracing the role of a 'digital missionary,' aiming to chart uncharted territories in the pursuit of truth alongside today's youth.
Join us as we gather insights on adapting ministry to the pulse of Gen Z, acknowledging the necessity to meet them where they are — online. We probe the essence of impactful digital evangelization, where success isn't measured by numbers, but by the depth of connections made and lives touched. As we conclude, our hearts unite in prayer for the youth, and an invitation to explore the resources at truthcharting.com.Send us a text
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When Louis Damani Jones speaks, one can't help but feel the warmth of his heart and the depth of his spiritual journey envelop the room. This St. Louis psychotherapist brings to our latest podcast episode a rich tapestry of childhood experiences within an intentional community, the pull of activism, and the complexities of faith that have shaped his life.
His candid recounting of this journey reveals the emotional resonance of sacred music and the spiritual guidance received from a Coptic priest, which would ultimately challenge and deepen his understanding of Christianity. Louis' narrative is a testament to the powerful role of tradition and liturgical practices in shaping one's faith and the unexpected paths that lead us back home.
As our conversation unfolds, we learn of Louis' internal struggle between the tenets of Eastern Orthodoxy and Catholicism, a conflict that finds resolution through his study of early church councils and the pivotal Tome of Leo. With a renewed embrace of Catholicism, Louis discusses the integration of Eastern spiritual disciplines into his practice of faith and offers insights into the active role of charity within the church. His reflection on the challenges of reentering the Catholic community, coupled with the practical advice he offers for those seeking to deepen their spiritual journey, makes this episode a beacon for anyone navigating the waters of faith, identity, and service.Send us a text
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Embark on a transformative exploration of faith, forgiveness, and the human condition with Dr. Josephine Lombardi, as she reflects on her spiritual journey from a high school chaplaincy leader to her influential tenure as Assistant Dean and Associate Professor at St. Augustine's Seminary. Join us for a candid conversation that weaves through Dr. Lombardi's narratives of her Italian family's devout heritage, her academic pursuit of theology with an emphasis on soteriology, and her balancing act as a theologian, wife, and mother. Through her storied career, she has touched the lives of at-risk youth, inspired seminarians and laypersons alike, and penned the insightful "Experts in Humanity,"—a testament to her passion for scripture and understanding our place in the world.
Dr. Lombardi invites us into her heart with tales of perseverance and divine grace, as we tackle the often challenging concepts of forgiveness and self-acceptance, key themes she unravels through her own trials and scholarly endeavors. She casts a light on the distinction between shame and guilt, emphasizing the deep significance of embracing one's worth as bestowed by God. Join us as we navigate the intricate process of forgiving oneself, a journey Josephine knows all too well, and learn how such acts of self-compassion can pave the path toward freedom and emotional healing.
As we contemplate the future of the Church, Dr. Lombardi shares her hopeful vision, grounded in the understanding of our identity as reflections of God's image and love. Prepare to be moved and motivated to delve into a deeper relationship with Jesus, as we explore these profound topics with a true expert in humanity.Send us a text
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Imagine trading the clamor of Wall Street for the serene whispers of a church; this is the life of Father Dan Reehil, who joins us to unravel the tapestry of his extraordinary call to priesthood.
Through the lens of Father Dan's story, we glimpse the rigorous discipline of exorcism and deliverance ministry training in Rome and the transformative role these practices have played in his pastoral mission. His commitment to spiritual exercises offers a deeper understanding of how personal faith practices can sculpt one's service to the church. Moreover, the conversation invites us to reflect on the quiet grace of saints like St. Joseph, emphasizing the essence of humility and how it weaves through the fabric of our spiritual lives.Send us a text
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