Mary Lenaburg

2nd Installment - If Part 1 left your heart aching, do not wait another minute to continue to listen to the rest of the story. Well, the story as it is up to this point in our lives. Ladies, God is Good; God loves us; God redeems all things and heals all things. Yes, YOU are worthy of God's mercy and love and redemption.   And now - I tell you that I am taking an extended holiday break - May you and your loved ones be richly blessed this Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas Season. Thank you for all that you have done in support and for listening to what God has placed on my heart to share with each of you. I pray you have all grown closer to the Lord in even some small way because of this podcast. I have given you my heart in so many ways and on so many occasions and topics. BLESSINGS!!!     Mary grew up in a large Catholic family with 6 brothers and a sister and had her own football helmet in the 3rd grade. She always wanted to be a wife and mother, and pictured her children in the perfect Catholic plaid uniform. Upon meeting her husband on her first and only blind date, she was confident she was on her way.   But God had a different plan. She gave birth to her son Jonathan in 1989 and her daughter Courtney arrived August 1992. On September 27, 1992, while being baptized, Courtney had the first of many grand-mal seizures. Going from the church to the emergency room, Mary’s world changed forever.   There is no such thing as a perfect life. For the next twenty-two years Mary and her family took a spiritual journey that led them to Lourdes, France, numerous hospitals and specialists with their daughter and finally to home-based hospice. Courtney took her last breath this side of heaven on December 27, 2014, the feast of St. John the Beloved, while in her mother’s arms. She is now her parents and big brother's most powerful intercessor.   Along the way, Mary and her family came to understand that God does not make mistakes. Every human life, no matter their ability or disability, has value and worth. Courtney’s unique ability to love without ever speaking a word, taught Mary and her family that everyone has a purpose and a mission. Words are not required. They came to accept that Courtney would never be healed on this earth and allowed God’s plan for their family to unfold, trusting in His plan for each of them.   In the Fall of 2016 life took an unexpected turn when Mary felt the call to begin a new ministry. She now travels the country speaking to all age groups about God’s Redeeming love, encouraging audiences to embrace the story God is writing with their lives, trusting Him with the outcome, having hope in times of desolation while learning to be brave in the scared and to know that faith is the courage to want what God wants for us, even if we cannot see where the path leads.   Her first book “Be Brave in the Scared: How I Learned to Trust God During My Most Difficult Days of My Life”  is available wherever books are sold.   Mary is available to speak/emcee for Retreats, Parish Missions, Youth Events, Mega-Conferences and Media Events. You can contact her through her Speakers Page for more information.   Mary lives in Northern Virginia with her husband of 31 years and her grown son. She continues to embrace her father’s advice, “Never quit, never give up, never lose your faith. It’s the one reason you walk this earth. For God chose this time and place just for you, so make the most of it.”

2nd Installment - If Part 1 left your heart aching, do not wait another minute to continue to listen to the rest of the story. Well, the story as it is up to this point in our lives. Ladies, God is Good; God loves us; God redeems all things and heals all things. Yes, YOU are worthy of God's mercy and love and redemption. And now - I tell you that I am taking an extended holiday break - May you and your loved ones be richly blessed this Thanksgiving, Advent, and Christmas Season. Thank you for all that you have done in support and for listening to what God has placed on my heart to share with each of you. I pray you have all grown closer to the Lord in even some small way because of this podcast. I have given you my heart in so many ways and on so many occasions and topics. BLESSINGS!!! Mary grew up in a large Catholic family with 6 brothers and a sister and had her own football helmet in the 3rd grade. She always wanted to be a wife and mother, and pictured her children in the perfect Catholic plaid uniform. Upon meeting her husband on her first and only blind date, she was confident she was on her way. But God had a different plan. She gave birth to her son Jonathan in 1989 and her daughter Courtney arrived August 1992. On September 27, 1992, while being baptized, Courtney had the first of many grand-mal seizures. Going from the church to the emergency room, Mary’s world changed forever. There is no such thing as a perfect life. For the next twenty-two years Mary and her family took a spiritual journey that led them to Lourdes, France, numerous hospitals and specialists with their daughter and finally to home-based hospice. Courtney took her last breath this side of heaven on December 27, 2014, the feast of St. John the Beloved, while in her mother’s arms. She is now her parents and big brother's most powerful intercessor. Along the way, Mary and her family came to understand that God does not make mistakes. Every human life, no matter their ability or disability, has value and worth. Courtney’s unique ability to love without ever speaking a word, taught Mary and her family that everyone has a purpose and a mission. Words are not required. They came to accept that Courtney would never be healed on this earth and allowed God’s plan for their family to unfold, trusting in His plan for each of them. In the Fall of 2016 life took an unexpected turn when Mary felt the call to begin a new ministry. She now travels the country speaking to all age groups about God’s Redeeming love, encouraging audiences to embrace the story God is writing with their lives, trusting Him with the outcome, having hope in times of desolation while learning to be brave in the scared and to know that faith is the courage to want what God wants for us, even if we cannot see where the path leads. Her first book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Be-Brave-Scared-Learned-Difficult/dp/1594718830/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DZH8JJD5FYKI&amp;keywords=be+brave+in+the+scared&amp;qid=1552530209&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=be+brave+in%2Caps%2C124&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“Be Brave in the Scared: How I Learned to Trust God During My Most Difficult Days of My Life”</a>  is available wherever books are sold. Mary is available to speak/emcee for Retreats, Parish Missions, Youth Events, Mega-Conferences and Media Events. You can contact her through her <a href="https://www.marylenaburg.com/speaking/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Speakers Page for more information.</a> Mary lives in Northern Virginia with her husband of 31 years and her grown son. She continues to embrace her father’s advice, “Never quit, never give up, never lose your faith. It’s the one reason you walk this earth. For God chose this time and place just for you, so make the most of it.”

Part 2 - Truth Bombs and Fairy Godmothers - Mary Lenaburg - Ep068

This first installment of a downright real conversation between Mary and host, Becky Carter, goes through the gambit of fertility, infertility and voluntary sterility. Both Becky and Mary share very intimate parts of their life stories with you during this very beautiful conversation that leads back to our never-ending hope -- God's redemption -- through sin and also through suffering.     Mary grew up in a large Catholic family with 6 brothers and a sister and had her own football helmet in the 3rd grade. She always wanted to be a wife and mother, and pictured her children in the perfect Catholic plaid uniform. Upon meeting her husband on her first and only blind date, she was confident she was on her way.   But God had a different plan. She gave birth to her son Jonathan in 1989 and her daughter Courtney arrived August 1992. On September 27, 1992, while being baptized, Courtney had the first of many grand-mal seizures. Going from the church to the emergency room, Mary’s world changed forever.   There is no such thing as a perfect life. For the next twenty-two years Mary and her family took a spiritual journey that led them to Lourdes, France, numerous hospitals and specialists with their daughter and finally to home-based hospice. Courtney took her last breath this side of heaven on December 27, 2014, the feast of St. John the Beloved, while in her mother’s arms. She is now her parents and big brother's most powerful intercessor.   Along the way, Mary and her family came to understand that God does not make mistakes. Every human life, no matter their ability or disability, has value and worth. Courtney’s unique ability to love without ever speaking a word, taught Mary and her family that everyone has a purpose and a mission. Words are not required. They came to accept that Courtney would never be healed on this earth and allowed God’s plan for their family to unfold, trusting in His plan for each of them.   In the Fall of 2016 life took an unexpected turn when Mary felt the call to begin a new ministry. She now travels the country speaking to all age groups about God’s Redeeming love, encouraging audiences to embrace the story God is writing with their lives, trusting Him with the outcome, having hope in times of desolation while learning to be brave in the scared and to know that faith is the courage to want what God wants for us, even if we cannot see where the path leads.   Her first book “Be Brave in the Scared: How I Learned to Trust God During My Most Difficult Days of My Life”  is available wherever books are sold.   Mary is available to speak/emcee for Retreats, Parish Missions, Youth Events, Mega-Conferences and Media Events. You can contact her through her Speakers Page for more information.   Mary lives in Northern Virginia with her husband of 31 years and her grown son. She continues to embrace her father’s advice, “Never quit, never give up, never lose your faith. It’s the one reason you walk this earth. For God chose this time and place just for you, so make the most of it.”

This first installment of a downright real conversation between Mary and host, Becky Carter, goes through the gambit of fertility, infertility and voluntary sterility. Both Becky and Mary share very intimate parts of their life stories with you during this very beautiful conversation that leads back to our never-ending hope -- God's redemption -- through sin and also through suffering. Mary grew up in a large Catholic family with 6 brothers and a sister and had her own football helmet in the 3rd grade. She always wanted to be a wife and mother, and pictured her children in the perfect Catholic plaid uniform. Upon meeting her husband on her first and only blind date, she was confident she was on her way. But God had a different plan. She gave birth to her son Jonathan in 1989 and her daughter Courtney arrived August 1992. On September 27, 1992, while being baptized, Courtney had the first of many grand-mal seizures. Going from the church to the emergency room, Mary’s world changed forever. There is no such thing as a perfect life. For the next twenty-two years Mary and her family took a spiritual journey that led them to Lourdes, France, numerous hospitals and specialists with their daughter and finally to home-based hospice. Courtney took her last breath this side of heaven on December 27, 2014, the feast of St. John the Beloved, while in her mother’s arms. She is now her parents and big brother's most powerful intercessor. Along the way, Mary and her family came to understand that God does not make mistakes. Every human life, no matter their ability or disability, has value and worth. Courtney’s unique ability to love without ever speaking a word, taught Mary and her family that everyone has a purpose and a mission. Words are not required. They came to accept that Courtney would never be healed on this earth and allowed God’s plan for their family to unfold, trusting in His plan for each of them. In the Fall of 2016 life took an unexpected turn when Mary felt the call to begin a new ministry. She now travels the country speaking to all age groups about God’s Redeeming love, encouraging audiences to embrace the story God is writing with their lives, trusting Him with the outcome, having hope in times of desolation while learning to be brave in the scared and to know that faith is the courage to want what God wants for us, even if we cannot see where the path leads. Her first book <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Be-Brave-Scared-Learned-Difficult/dp/1594718830/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DZH8JJD5FYKI&amp;keywords=be+brave+in+the+scared&amp;qid=1552530209&amp;s=gateway&amp;sprefix=be+brave+in%2Caps%2C124&amp;sr=8-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“Be Brave in the Scared: How I Learned to Trust God During My Most Difficult Days of My Life”</a>  is available wherever books are sold. Mary is available to speak/emcee for Retreats, Parish Missions, Youth Events, Mega-Conferences and Media Events. You can contact her through her <a href="https://www.marylenaburg.com/speaking/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Speakers Page for more information.</a> Mary lives in Northern Virginia with her husband of 31 years and her grown son. She continues to embrace her father’s advice, “Never quit, never give up, never lose your faith. It’s the one reason you walk this earth. For God chose this time and place just for you, so make the most of it.”

Truth Bombs and Fairy Godmothers - Mary Lenaburg - Part 1 - Ep067

Richaél Lucero

What a fun conversation on love and conversion and Theosis - whatever that word even means? Don't worry, you get all of that and more in this interview with my young, knowledgeable and vibrant guest.      Speaker and podcast host of Clumsy Theosis, Richaél Lucero strives to manifest the Lord’s command in Matthew 28:19 to “go and make disciples of all nations.” After returning to the Faith, Richaél Lucero earned a master’s degree in theology and Christian ministry from Franciscan University of Steubenville.   As the founder of Clumsy Theosis Ministries Richaél's mission is personal transformation of the Faithful through a life of theosis that will transform the world and expand the Kingdom of Heaven. On her podcast, she achieves this by taking 2,000 years of Catholic goodness, drawing from the great minds and spiritual masters, boiling it down to give practical advice to 21st century Christians.   Richaél and her husband Gary, are active parishioners of their local Byzantine Rite Catholic Church. She has also enjoyed being a part-time theology instructor at the San Diego Diocesan Institute.   Become a part of the movement! clumsytheosis.net Instagram + Twitter + Facebook @clumsytheosis

What a fun conversation on love and conversion and Theosis - whatever that word even means? Don't worry, you get all of that and more in this interview with my young, knowledgeable and vibrant guest. Speaker and podcast host of Clumsy Theosis, Richaél Lucero strives to manifest the Lord’s command in Matthew 28:19 to “go and make disciples of all nations.” After returning to the Faith, Richaél Lucero earned a master’s degree in theology and Christian ministry from Franciscan University of Steubenville. As the founder of Clumsy Theosis Ministries Richaél's mission is personal transformation of the Faithful through a life of theosis that will transform the world and expand the Kingdom of Heaven. On her podcast, she achieves this by taking 2,000 years of Catholic goodness, drawing from the great minds and spiritual masters, boiling it down to give practical advice to 21st century Christians. Richaél and her husband Gary, are active parishioners of their local Byzantine Rite Catholic Church. She has also enjoyed being a part-time theology instructor at the San Diego Diocesan Institute. Become a part of the movement! <a href="https://clumsytheosis.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">clumsytheosis.net</a> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clumsytheosis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> + <a href="https://twitter.com/clumsytheosis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> + <a href="https://www.facebook.com/clumsytheosis/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> @clumsytheosis

A Clumsy Love Story - Richaél Lucero EP066

Carrie Gress

This is not your typical interview with Carrie Gress about her book The Anti-Mary Exposed. I really tried to take this discussion with Carrie in a different direction than how other interviews go. Carrie allowed me to dig deeper and focus on the spiritual aspect of this movement rather than it being an attack on any one type of person. We reveal the issue and offer the answer, the Blessed Virgin Mother. Also, we are reaching out our hands and hearts to offer healing and encouragement for those who have been hurt by these lies.     Carrie Gress has a doctorate in philosophy from the Catholic University of America. She is the editor at the online women’s magazine Theology of Home.   Carrie has written for numerous publications, including Aleteia, Catholic Vote, Catholic World Report, National Review, The Catholic Thing, The Federalist, The National Catholic Register, The Stream, and The Washington Examiner. She is a frequent guest on Ave Maria Radio, Catholic Answers, EWTN Radio, and Relevant Radio, and has appeared on Fox, BBC, CBC, EWTN and Shalom World television.   Carrie has lived and worked professionally in Washington, D.C. and Rome, Italy and her work has been translated into nine languages.   She is the author of Nudging Conversions (Dynamic Catholic 2015), Ultimate Makeover (Dynamic Catholic, 2016), The Marian Option (TAN Books, 2017), and Marian Consecration for Children (TAN Books, 2018). She co-authored City of Saints; A Pilgrim’s Guide to John Paul II’s Krakow with George Weigel. Her latest book, The Anti-Mary Exposed (TAN Books) was released in March 1, 2019. Her latest book, Theology of Home, was released in Sept. 2019.

This is not your typical interview with Carrie Gress about her book The Anti-Mary Exposed. I really tried to take this discussion with Carrie in a different direction than how other interviews go. Carrie allowed me to dig deeper and focus on the spiritual aspect of this movement rather than it being an attack on any one type of person. We reveal the issue and offer the answer, the Blessed Virgin Mother. Also, we are reaching out our hands and hearts to offer healing and encouragement for those who have been hurt by these lies. Carrie Gress has a doctorate in philosophy from the Catholic University of America. She is the editor at the online women’s magazine <a href="http://www.theologyofhome.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of Home</a>. Carrie has written for numerous publications, including Aleteia, Catholic Vote, Catholic World Report, National Review, The Catholic Thing, The Federalist, The National Catholic Register, The Stream, and The Washington Examiner. She is a frequent guest on Ave Maria Radio, Catholic Answers, EWTN Radio, and Relevant Radio, and has appeared on Fox, BBC, CBC, EWTN and Shalom World television. Carrie has lived and worked professionally in Washington, D.C. and Rome, Italy and her work has been translated into nine languages. She is the author of Nudging Conversions (Dynamic Catholic 2015), Ultimate Makeover (Dynamic Catholic, 2016), The Marian Option (TAN Books, 2017), and Marian Consecration for Children (TAN Books, 2018). She co-authored City of Saints; A Pilgrim’s Guide to John Paul II’s Krakow with George Weigel. Her latest book, The Anti-Mary Exposed (TAN Books) was released in March 1, 2019. Her latest book, Theology of Home, was released in Sept. 2019.

The Anti-Mary is a Spirit Not a Person with Carrie Gress - Ep065

Laura Hanby Hudgens

Have you ever heard a piece of "wisdom" that has been passed on for generations? For example, "You can do anything you put your mind to" or "Do what makes you happy". While these words can feel encouraging in a moment of stress, they may not be the most sound and virtuous ways to go about discerning life decisions.   Laura Hudgens, a writer, junior high teacher, momma, and my friend, sits down with me as we talk through several of these little sayings. As referenced in one of her  Grown and Flown articles, these phrases have become ingrained into our culture of encouragement.   Of course, I always enjoy my friendly conversations with Laura, this interview is no different. So, I hope you sit back and enjoy - or fold your laundry - or drive to work -- but nonetheless, ENJOY! This one will have you smiling, shaking your head and even singing, Amen!   Guest:     Laura is a Catholic middle school teacher and a freelance writer. She lives on a buffalo farm in the Arkansas Ozarks where she enjoys cooking and baking, which is also the key to bringing her busy family together. Her work has appeared on The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Grown and Flown, ChurchPOP, and elsewhere.   Find out more about Laura here.

Have you ever heard a piece of "wisdom" that has been passed on for generations? For example, "You can do anything you put your mind to" or "Do what makes you happy". While these words can feel encouraging in a moment of stress, they may not be the most sound and virtuous ways to go about discerning life decisions. Laura Hudgens, a writer, junior high teacher, momma, and my friend, sits down with me as we talk through several of these little sayings. As referenced in one of her <a href="https://grownandflown.com/graduating-senior-words-wisdom-ignore/?utm_source=facebookhs&amp;utm_medium=socialflow&amp;fbclid=IwAR2RlkqhTBZ9XN3bzPQMq8UdzcQAIlAPkvfsEU9o8uiwueyi2PBbm3YBLMo" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Grown and Flown</a> articles, these phrases have become ingrained into our culture of encouragement. Of course, I always enjoy my friendly conversations with Laura, this interview is no different. So, I hope you sit back and enjoy - or fold your laundry - or drive to work -- but nonetheless, ENJOY! This one will have you smiling, shaking your head and even singing, Amen! Guest: Laura is a Catholic middle school teacher and a freelance writer. She lives on a buffalo farm in the Arkansas Ozarks where she enjoys cooking and baking, which is also the key to bringing her busy family together. Her work has appeared on The Washington Post, Huffington Post, Grown and Flown, ChurchPOP, and elsewhere. Find out more about Laura <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lchanbyhudgens/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">here.</a>

Words of Wisdom We Ought Just Ignore - Laura Hanby Hudgens EP064

Colleen Campbell

Do you ever feel like you are never good enough? You strive and strive. You make the tough choices. You practice virtue but can't find the joy of obedience you have been promised? What have we been missing all along? I have got a podcast for you!   Sometimes there are books that just pierce the heart. Sometimes there are authors that instantly connect to readers. For myself, this is the book and this is the author. I could not wait to interview Colleen and dig, all the more, into what it looks like when our needs to be perfect in the eyes of the world and even in our spiritual lives become toxic and downright debilitating. Please do not miss this episode - and share it with a friend. It is time we seek God's version of perfection -- not the world's.     Colleen Carroll Campbell is an award-winning author, print and broadcast journalist and former presidential speechwriter. Her books include her critically acclaimed journalistic study, The New Faithful; her spiritual memoir, My Sisters the Saints, which won two national awards and has been published in five languages; and The Heart of Perfection: How the Saints Taught Me to Trade My Dream of Perfect for God’s, just released by Simon &amp; Schuster. Colleen has written for the New York Times, Washington Post, Christianity Today, America and National Review, and appeared on CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, ABC News, PBS, NPR and EWTN, where she hosted her own television and radio shows for eight years. A former speechwriter for President George W. Bush and editorial writer and op-ed columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Colleen is the recipient of two honorary doctorates and numerous other awards and fellowships. She speaks to audiences across North America and Europe and lives in St. Louis with her husband and their four young children, whom she homeschools. Her website is www.colleen-campbell.com.

Do you ever feel like you are never good enough? You strive and strive. You make the tough choices. You practice virtue but can't find the joy of obedience you have been promised? What have we been missing all along? I have got a podcast for you! Sometimes there are books that just pierce the heart. Sometimes there are authors that instantly connect to readers. For myself, this is the book and this is the author. I could not wait to interview Colleen and dig, all the more, into what it looks like when our needs to be perfect in the eyes of the world and even in our spiritual lives become toxic and downright debilitating. Please do not miss this episode - and share it with a friend. It is time we seek God's version of perfection -- not the world's. Colleen Carroll Campbell is an award-winning author, print and broadcast journalist and former presidential speechwriter. Her books include her critically acclaimed journalistic study, The New Faithful; her spiritual memoir, My Sisters the Saints, which won two national awards and has been published in five languages; and The Heart of Perfection: How the Saints Taught Me to Trade My Dream of Perfect for God’s, just released by Simon &amp; Schuster. Colleen has written for the New York Times, Washington Post, Christianity Today, America and National Review, and appeared on CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, ABC News, PBS, NPR and EWTN, where she hosted her own television and radio shows for eight years. A former speechwriter for President George W. Bush and editorial writer and op-ed columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Colleen is the recipient of two honorary doctorates and numerous other awards and fellowships. She speaks to audiences across North America and Europe and lives in St. Louis with her husband and their four young children, whom she homeschools. Her website is <a href="https://www.colleen-campbell.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.colleen-campbell.com</a>.

The Heart of Perfection with Colleen Campbell EP063

Leah Darrow

We are starting this new season off with the fire of evangelization. Leah is a lover of Jesus and has a gift and a love for sharing the truths of our Catholic faith. With God's grace, that sure is a powerful combination. Leah also shares with us how you can get involved with her Lux U community (which is open for a limited time this month for new registrants). After this episode, you may just feel compelled to go out and share the good news!   GUEST –      Leah Darrow, a former model and contestant on Cycle 3 of America’s Next Top Model, has a driving passion to inspire women to do something beautiful with their lives. She is an international speaker, author of The Other Side of Beauty, host of the Do Something Beautiful podcast, and the founder of LUX University. She is a wife to a US Army Green Beret and mom to four marvelous, crazy little kids, and together they live in St. Louis, Missouri. Follow Leah as she helps readers live truly beautiful lives that ultimately point to God on her website, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

We are starting this new season off with the fire of evangelization. Leah is a lover of Jesus and has a gift and a love for sharing the truths of our Catholic faith. With God's grace, that sure is a powerful combination. Leah also shares with us how you can get involved with her Lux U community (which is open for a limited time this month for new registrants). After this episode, you may just feel compelled to go out and share the good news! GUEST – <a href="https://leahdarrow.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Leah Darrow</a>, a former model and contestant on Cycle 3 of America’s Next Top Model, has a driving passion to inspire women to do something beautiful with their lives. She is an international speaker, author of <a href="https://www.thomasnelson.com/p/the-other-side-of-beauty/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">The Other Side of Beauty</a>, host of the <a href="https://leahdarrow.com/category/podcast/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Do Something Beautiful</a> podcast, and the founder of <a href="https://leah-darrow.mykajabi.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">LUX University</a>. She is a wife to a US Army Green Beret and mom to four marvelous, crazy little kids, and together they live in St. Louis, Missouri. Follow Leah as she helps readers live truly beautiful lives that ultimately point to God on her <a href="https://leahdarrow.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/leah.darrow" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/leahdarrow" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>, and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/leah.darrow/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.

Season 6 is Here with Leah Darrow EP062

I love homeschooling. I have been so thankful for all the years we had together, as a family, in that particular way. We had many successes and also many bumps along the way. It was such a blessing until it wasn't anymore. Our family needed to close up shop and pursue other avenues of education. In this episode, I am NOT preaching school choice -- that choice is a specific privilege for each family. Rather, I do share that what God has shown me, how he has consoled me, and the ways he has helped me grow in faith as I obediently let go of my own ideals and expectations.   Please consider financially supporting the podcast   Call to Action -    Ask God what expectations you have allowed other people (unknowingly) to put on you and are now painfully holding onto those impossibilities.   Scripture -    "When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”     your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many,     your consolations cheer my soul. " -Psalm 94:18-19   Saint Quote -    "Sweetest Lord, make me appreciative of the dignity of my high vocation, and its many responsibilities. Never permit me to disgrace it by giving way to coldness, unkindness, or impatience." - St. Theresa Calcutta

I love homeschooling. I have been so thankful for all the years we had together, as a family, in that particular way. We had many successes and also many bumps along the way. It was such a blessing until it wasn't anymore. Our family needed to close up shop and pursue other avenues of education. In this episode, I am NOT preaching school choice -- that choice is a specific privilege for each family. Rather, I do share that what God has shown me, how he has consoled me, and the ways he has helped me grow in faith as I obediently let go of my own ideals and expectations. Please consider financially <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> the podcast Call to Action -  Ask God what expectations you have allowed other people (unknowingly) to put on you and are now painfully holding onto those impossibilities. Scripture -  "When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”     your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many,     your consolations cheer my soul. " -Psalm 94:18-19 Saint Quote -  "Sweetest Lord, make me appreciative of the dignity of my high vocation, and its many responsibilities. Never permit me to disgrace it by giving way to coldness, unkindness, or impatience." - St. Theresa Calcutta

Closing Our Homeschool: What God Taught Me this Past Year Ep061

Download  "Why does The Vows Project exist? Because marriage matters. Your marriage matters. The world needs your marriage to thrive, and yet it often feels like the world is stacked against marriage, against lasting fidelity, and against authentic happiness."   On this episode, we talk many things marriage during an interview with Cassie Kent and Megan Hjelmstad, two of the founders of The Vows Project.   Please consider financially supporting the podcast   Guests:      Cassie Kent, wife to Mike for 11 years. Living in sunny San Diego, you can find Cassie busy homeschooling their 3 kids while working-at-home. Cassie grew up in a tight-knit Catholic Covenant Community where she credits most of her formation. Through summer camps and retreats she received many opportunities to grow in love with Christ and knowledge of Him.  She was blessed to further her faith formation and education at Franciscan University, where she met her handsome husband. The rest is history! When not wrangling and herding kids, Cassie enjoys organizing, making lists, decorating, lipstick, a perfectly curated cocktail and pretty much any BBC flick she can find! Grateful for all the weird, messy, odd or even predictable things in life that come together to make life beautiful, Cassie finds joy even in her everyday struggles.      Megan Hjelmstad is a wife and mom 24/7 and an Army Reservist in her “spare” time. She’s a bibliophile, tea drinker, sleep lover, and avid admirer of Colorado’s great outdoors. She’s a writer and Instagram Manager for Blessed is She, a global Catholic women’s ministry, and you can also find her published in Radiant Magazine and Chicken Soup for the Soul. She occasionally posts on her very neglected blog, www.positivelyimperfect.com, and loves to micro-blog frequently on Instagram at @positively__imperfect about all things faith and real life.   Show Notes:    The Vows Project Website The Vows Project on Instagram Blessed is She    Call to Action -     Pray for your spouse daily Offer up a small sacrifice daily for your spouse Do a small and deliberate act of love for your spouse    Scripture -    Prophetic Blessing:   The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.”-Numbers 6:24-26   Saint Quote -    "Now, we must help each other to get to heaven." - Bl. Karl of Austria

<a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/thrivinginthetrenches/TNT060.mp3" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Download</a> "Why does The Vows Project exist? Because marriage matters. Your marriage matters. The world needs your marriage to thrive, and yet it often feels like the world is stacked against marriage, against lasting fidelity, and against authentic happiness." On this episode, we talk many things marriage during an interview with Cassie Kent and Megan Hjelmstad, two of the founders of <a href="https://www.thevowsproject.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Vows Project</a>. Please consider financially <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> the podcast Guests: Cassie Kent, wife to Mike for 11 years. Living in sunny San Diego, you can find Cassie busy homeschooling their 3 kids while working-at-home. Cassie grew up in a tight-knit Catholic Covenant Community where she credits most of her formation. Through summer camps and retreats she received many opportunities to grow in love with Christ and knowledge of Him.  She was blessed to further her faith formation and education at Franciscan University, where she met her handsome husband. The rest is history! When not wrangling and herding kids, Cassie enjoys organizing, making lists, decorating, lipstick, a perfectly curated cocktail and pretty much any BBC flick she can find! Grateful for all the weird, messy, odd or even predictable things in life that come together to make life beautiful, Cassie finds joy even in her everyday struggles. Megan Hjelmstad is a wife and mom 24/7 and an Army Reservist in her “spare” time. She’s a bibliophile, tea drinker, sleep lover, and avid admirer of Colorado’s great outdoors. She’s a writer and Instagram Manager for Blessed is She, a global Catholic women’s ministry, and you can also find her published in Radiant Magazine and Chicken Soup for the Soul. She occasionally posts on her very neglected blog, <a href="http://www.positivelyimperfect.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.positivelyimperfect.com</a>, and loves to micro-blog frequently on Instagram at @positively__imperfect about all things faith and real life. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.thevowsproject.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Vows Project Website</a></li> <li>The Vows Project on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thevowsproject/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://blessedisshe.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blessed is She</a></li> </ul> Call to Action -  <ul> <li>Pray for your spouse daily</li> <li>Offer up a small sacrifice daily for your spouse</li> <li>Do a small and deliberate act of love for your spouse</li> </ul> Scripture -  Prophetic Blessing: The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.”-Numbers 6:24-26 Saint Quote -  "Now, we must help each other to get to heaven." - Bl. Karl of Austria

Living The Vows: The Vows Project Ministry - Ep060

Kellie Sheehan

Download  A story of many loves, yet only one love that would finally fill this woman's heart after her father's death. When Kellie Sheehan moved across the country to work at the New York City Ballet, she found herself wandering and unknowingly looking for God's love while on the wrong path. This is a love story of a woman, pursued by her Heavenly Father. A Heavenly Mother, a twin sister, and an earthly mother that all persevered in love and prayer - until this prodigal daughter found her way back home.   Please consider financially supporting the podcast   Guest:      Kellie Sheehan is a Catholic convert, single woman and draper at the New York City Ballet. Creating beauty in work and life is her calling. She loves art, history, dance, a good whiskey, and praying the Rosary in Irish. She strives every day to increase her devotion to Mary and to become worthy of the title, daughter of the Most High King.     Show Notes:     The Faith of Millions    Call to Action -    Look for the Lord, every day, in your everyday life. He is there, always waiting for you to come Home.   Scripture -    "When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”     your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many,     your consolations cheer my soul. " -Psalm 94:18-19   Saint Quote -    "How sweet is the way of Love! True, one may fall, one may not be always faithful, but Love, knowing how to draw profit from all, very quickly consumes whatsoever may displease Jesus, leaving naught but humble and profound peace in the innermost soul." - St. Therese Lisieux

<a href="http://traffic.libsyn.com/thrivinginthetrenches/TNT059a-1.mp3" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Download</a> A story of many loves, yet only one love that would finally fill this woman's heart after her father's death. When Kellie Sheehan moved across the country to work at the New York City Ballet, she found herself wandering and unknowingly looking for God's love while on the wrong path. This is a love story of a woman, pursued by her Heavenly Father. A Heavenly Mother, a twin sister, and an earthly mother that all persevered in love and prayer - until this prodigal daughter found her way back home. Please consider financially <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> the podcast Guest: Kellie Sheehan is a Catholic convert, single woman and draper at the New York City Ballet. Creating beauty in work and life is her calling. She loves art, history, dance, a good whiskey, and praying the Rosary in Irish. She strives every day to increase her devotion to Mary and to become worthy of the title, daughter of the Most High King. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Faith-Millions-Credentials-Catholic-Religion/dp/0879738308" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Faith of Millions</a></li> </ul> Call to Action -  Look for the Lord, every day, in your everyday life. He is there, always waiting for you to come Home. Scripture -  "When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”     your steadfast love, O Lord, held me up. When the cares of my heart are many,     your consolations cheer my soul. " -Psalm 94:18-19 Saint Quote -  "How sweet is the way of Love! True, one may fall, one may not be always faithful, but Love, knowing how to draw profit from all, very quickly consumes whatsoever may displease Jesus, leaving naught but humble and profound peace in the innermost soul." - St. Therese Lisieux

God Is Always There Waiting: Guest Kellie Sheehan, Ep059

Megan Schrieber and Becky Carter get down to the real deal topics that tend to be a stumbling block for women as they live daily for Christ.  Megan and Becky interview guests about embracing joy, laughter, freedom, and friendship while seeking to thrive in the trenches of their domestic churches.  A weekly podcast that will surely make you laugh, cry, and feel a little less alone, these ladies surely don't have it all together but they are inviting you to join them on this beautiful journey.

Authentic and life changing conversations that help us win this spiritual battle we’re all a part of

Inspiring and thoughtful

A friend just shared the episode about the New age and the occult which I just listened to and it informed me a lot on things I didn’t know and others to always keep in mind. It was excellent and I just subscribed! Tell your friends!

I am a guy but I still love it

Thriving in the Trenches a Catholic Podcast

Emily Stimpson

Many of us are likely very familiar with this week’s guest, but you may not know all of her story. Emily Stimpson Chapman shares with us how she went from being terrified to eat at all to one who throws the best of parties with the best of  foods and the best of beverages. Emily’s view on the role and nature of woman, whether single or married, is so beautifully woven through the truths our Church teaches. If you have not checked out her new book,  The Catholic Table, we suggest you do! So let’s talk about our bodies, food, wine, and hosting the best parties. This is the most delightful conversation with some jaw-dropping truths sprinkled throughout the episode. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:   Emily Stimpson Chapman is a freelance Catholic writer based in Pittsburgh, PA, and the creator of The Catholic Table, a blog about food, friendship, and hospitality. Her books include The Catholic Table: Finding Joy Where Food and Faith Meet (Emmaus Road, 2016), These Beautiful Bones: An Everyday Theology of the Body (Emmaus Road, 2013) and The Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide for the Single Years (Emmaus Road, 2012), and The American Catholic Almanac: A Daily Reader of Patriots, Saints, Rogues, and Ordinary People Who Changed the United States (Image, 2014). A prolific essayist and journalist, Emily writes regularly on “all things Catholic”—from politics and catechesis to higher education and the media, with a special focus on the Church’s teachings on marriage, sexuality, and femininity. Over the years, her writing has appeared in Our Sunday Visitor, First Things, Touchstone, Franciscan Way, the National Catholic Register, Faith and Family, and elsewhere. It has been honored by both the Catholic Press Association and the Associated Church Press, and was included in Loyola’s Best Catholic Writing series. Emily holds a BA from Miami University of Ohio (Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude), where she studied political science, history, and English literature. She also did graduate work in political science at John Hopkins University and theology at Franciscan University. Before moving to Steubenville, Emily worked in Washington, DC, first as a Legislative Assistant to then Congressman Jim Talent (R-MO), then later at the Heritage Foundation, where she served as Special Assistant to former Attorney General Edwin Meese III.     Show Notes:  Theology of the Body by St. John Paul 2 Theology of the Body Institute CorProject with Christopher West Napro Technology –  Episode 7 on Freedom with Gloria Purvis    Call to Action –  As women, this week let’s shift the focus to needing to take care of our bodies rather than trying to control them. We can also apply this to any other situation in our life that we re trying to control rather than caring for it and letting God be in control. Scripture –  “For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread[c] the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” – John 6:56-58 Saint Quote – “We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures, we are the sum of the Father’s love for us and our real capacity to become the image of His Son Jesus.” – St. John Paul II

Many of us are likely very familiar with this week’s guest, but you may not know all of her story. Emily Stimpson Chapman shares with us how she went from being terrified to eat at all to one who throws the best of parties with the best of  foods and the best of beverages. Emily’s view on the role and nature of woman, whether single or married, is so beautifully woven through the truths our Church teaches. If you have not checked out her new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1941447996/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&amp;camp=1789&amp;creative=9325&amp;creativeASIN=1941447996&amp;linkCode={{linkCode}}&amp;tag=emilysticom-20&amp;linkId={{link_id}}" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Catholic Table</a>, we suggest you do! So let’s talk about our bodies, food, wine, and hosting the best parties. This is the most delightful conversation with some jaw-dropping truths sprinkled throughout the episode. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Emily Stimpson Chapman is a freelance Catholic writer based in Pittsburgh, PA, and the creator of <a href="http://www.thecatholictable.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">The Catholic Table</a>, a blog about food, friendship, and hospitality. Her books include The Catholic Table: Finding Joy Where Food and Faith Meet (Emmaus Road, 2016), <a href="http://www.emilystimpson.com/these-beautiful-bones-an-everyday-theology-of-the-body.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">These Beautiful Bones: An Everyday Theology of the Body</a> (Emmaus Road, 2013) and <a href="http://www.emilystimpson.com/the-catholic-girls-survival-guide.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide for the Single Years</a> (Emmaus Road, 2012), and <a href="http://www.emilystimpson.com/the-american-catholic-almanac.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The American Catholic Almanac: A Daily Reader of Patriots, Saints, Rogues, and Ordinary People Who Changed the United States</a> (Image, 2014). A prolific essayist and journalist, Emily writes regularly on “all things Catholic”—from politics and catechesis to higher education and the media, with a special focus on the Church’s teachings on marriage, sexuality, and femininity. Over the years, her writing has appeared in Our Sunday Visitor, First Things, Touchstone, Franciscan Way, the National Catholic Register, Faith and Family, and elsewhere. It has been honored by both the Catholic Press Association and the Associated Church Press, and was included in Loyola’s Best Catholic Writing series. Emily holds a BA from Miami University of Ohio (Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude), where she studied political science, history, and English literature. She also did graduate work in political science at John Hopkins University and theology at Franciscan University. Before moving to Steubenville, Emily worked in Washington, DC, first as a Legislative Assistant to then Congressman Jim Talent (R-MO), then later at the Heritage Foundation, where she served as Special Assistant to former Attorney General Edwin Meese III. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.ewtn.com/library/PAPALDOC/JP2TBIND.HTM" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body by St. John Paul 2</a></li> <li><a href="http://tobinstitute.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theology of the Body Institute</a></li> <li><a href="http://corproject.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CorProject with Christopher West</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.naprotechnology.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Napro Technology</a> –</li> <li><a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-7-freedom-part-1/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 7 on Freedom</a> with Gloria Purvis</li> </ul> Call to Action –  As women, this week let’s shift the focus to needing to take care of our bodies rather than trying to control them. We can also apply this to any other situation in our life that we re trying to control rather than caring for it and letting God be in control. Scripture –  “For my flesh is true food, and my blood is true drink. 56 Whoever feeds on my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so whoever feeds on me, he also will live because of me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven, not like the bread[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john+6&amp;version=ESV#fen-ESV-26304c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">c</a>] the fathers ate, and died. Whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” – John 6:56-58 Saint Quote – “We are not the sum of our weaknesses and failures, we are the sum of the Father’s love for us and our real capacity to become the image of His Son Jesus.” – St. John Paul II

Episode 28: The Feminine Body Image – Emily Stimpson Chapman

Christy Brunk

This humidity dwelling, sponge roller wearing, cute kid birthing, wisdom preaching, video making, beauty seeking, southern instagram gem, Christy Brunk, spends some time sharing with us about being a mom to six kids, her conversion to the Catholic faith, and what it looks like in her feminine vocation to surrender her life and her family’s lives to the Lord through Our Blessed Mother. You will love getting to know our sweet southern belle in all of her Georgian twang. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:    Christy Brunk  is a Catholic convert, wife and mother of six.   She enjoys staging photos, writing novel-length IG captions, and making videos with her children.  She spent her pre-nuptial life teaching elementary Spanish &amp; French.  She stinks at chemistry, meal planning, and making friends with cats.  She comes from a long line of farmers: some saints, some sinners.  All of them with a healthy fear of the Almighty and Georgia red clay stains on their hands.  She believes that living authentically means frequent Confession.  And she will never stop being grateful to her husband for his guidance, and to the Lord for grafting her on to this Vine. Show Notes:  The Act of Consecracting your family to the Blessed Mother  Call to Action –  Rather than allowing ourselves to become overwhelmed with anxiety overy our children’s future, let us give them to the Lord, through Our Lady, and joyfully soak in the Grace God has for us in today. Scripture –  “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day.” –Matthew 6:34 Saint Quote – “Trust the past to God’s mercy, the present to God’s love, and the future to God’s providence.” St. Augustine

This humidity dwelling, sponge roller wearing, cute kid birthing, wisdom preaching, video making, beauty seeking, southern instagram gem, Christy Brunk, spends some time sharing with us about being a mom to six kids, her conversion to the Catholic faith, and what it looks like in her feminine vocation to surrender her life and her family’s lives to the Lord through Our Blessed Mother. You will love getting to know our sweet southern belle in all of her Georgian twang. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Christy Brunk  is a Catholic convert, wife and mother of six.   She enjoys staging photos, writing novel-length IG captions, and making videos with her children.  She spent her pre-nuptial life teaching elementary Spanish &amp; French.  She stinks at chemistry, meal planning, and making friends with cats.  She comes from a long line of farmers: some saints, some sinners.  All of them with a healthy fear of the Almighty and Georgia red clay stains on their hands.  She believes that living authentically means frequent Confession.  And she will never stop being grateful to her husband for his guidance, and to the Lord for grafting her on to this Vine. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.fisheaters.com/totalconsecrationmontfort.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Act of Consecracting your family to the Blessed Mother</a></li> </ul> Call to Action –  Rather than allowing ourselves to become overwhelmed with anxiety overy our children’s future, let us give them to the Lord, through Our Lady, and joyfully soak in the Grace God has for us in today. Scripture – “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Let the day’s own trouble be sufficient for the day.” –Matthew 6:34 Saint Quote – “Trust the past to God’s mercy, the present to God’s love, and the future to God’s providence.” St. Augustine

Episode 16_ When Your Zipper Won’t Zip- Christy Brunk

Damon Owens

“Every virtue, every firm habit to do good is far more powerful than any vice that pulls us away from the true joy of God. Mercy is giving people more love than they deserve which is exactly what God does for us” -Damon Owens  Episode 13 – Modesty As an Act of Charity with mom of 7 boys, Susan Husband, definitely stirred up some chatter on facebook when it released back in the Spring. Several comments really struck a chord with us in the way that stirred our hearts to keep the conversation going. There are a lot of women out there who have been hurt by this conversation on modesty and it has been causing women to feel as though they are carrying the entire weight of the issue. Men and women really are both truly wounded with all that goes with this issue. Men are bombarded and women are blamed.We were thrilled to have Damon help us dig into the truths of who we are in God’s family and how we can apply these truths into our everyday choices of not only what we are wearing but mostly how we present ourselves and how we feel about ourselves.  Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:   Damon Owens, an international speaker and evangelist for over 20 years, is the founder and executive director of joytob. Following four-years as the first executive director of the Theology of the Body Institute in Philadelphia, he served as Chairman of the 2016 International Theology of the Body Congress. In 2002 after 16 years in the technology sector, he sold out of his firm and founded Joy-Filled Marriage New Jersey, and New Jersey Natural Family Planning Association, non-profit organizations dedicated to building a marriage culture through training, seminars, and conferences. Damon and his wife Melanie taught Natural Family Planning (NFP) for 14 years, and served as NFP Coordinators for the Archdiocese of Newark (NJ). A Certified Speaker for the Theology of the Body Institute, National Trainer for Ascension Press, and presenter at the 2015 World Meeting of Families, Damon keeps a full international speaking schedule at conferences, marriage seminars, universities, high schools, seminaries, and parishes on the good news of marriage, sexuality, Theology of the Body, Theology of the Family, adoption, and NFP. Damon currently lives outside Philadelphia with his wife Melanie and their eight children. You can also connect with Damon on Facebook and Twitter     Show Notes:   Battle for the Body: Exorcising the Manichaean Demon and Reclaiming the Sacred Theology of our Body Podcast by Christopher West Integrity Restored Data on Porn: 51% of Americans regularly use pornography and over 80% of 15-17 year olds have been exposed to hard core pornography Helen Alvare (from  Episode 9)quoted Giusanni about sadness and despair being opposite emotions. Sadness is OK because it is still rooted in hope, despair is not rooted in hope. Communion and Liberation – Luigi Giusanni    SPECIAL MUSIC by Teresa Peterson – pre-order her new  Album, Faithful You can see her music video for Faithful here on Youtube  Call to Action –  See the other person’s heart and not their outerwear. Seeing and understanding that mercy is love’s second name. Let us ask the Lord to give us the Grace to see others the way He sees them.  Scripture –  “13 Jesus said to her, “Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” – John 4:13-15 Saint Quote – “It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you; He is the beauty to which you are so attracted; it is He who provoked you with that thirst for fullness that will not let you settle for compromise; it is He who urges you to shed the masks of a false life; it is He who reads in your heart your most genuine choices, the choices that others try to stifle. It is Jesus who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives, the will to follow an ideal, the refusal to allow yourselves to be ground down by mediocrity, the courage to commit yourselves humbly and patiently to improving yourselves and society, making the world more human and more fraternal.” – St. John Paul II

“Every virtue, every firm habit to do good is far more powerful than any vice that pulls us away from the true joy of God. Mercy is giving people more love than they deserve which is exactly what God does for us” -Damon Owens <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-13-modesty-act-charity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 13</a> – Modesty As an Act of Charity with mom of 7 boys, Susan Husband, definitely stirred up some chatter on facebook when it released back in the Spring. Several comments really struck a chord with us in the way that stirred our hearts to keep the conversation going. There are a lot of women out there who have been hurt by this conversation on modesty and it has been causing women to feel as though they are carrying the entire weight of the issue. Men and women really are both truly wounded with all that goes with this issue. Men are bombarded and women are blamed.We were thrilled to have Damon help us dig into the truths of who we are in God’s family and how we can apply these truths into our everyday choices of not only what we are wearing but mostly how we present ourselves and how we feel about ourselves.  Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Damon Owens, an <a href="https://joytob.org/talk-topics/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">international speaker</a> and evangelist for over 20 years, is the founder and executive director of <a href="https://joytob.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">joytob.</a> Following four-years as the first executive director of the Theology of the Body Institute in Philadelphia, he served as Chairman of the 2016 International Theology of the Body Congress. In 2002 after 16 years in the technology sector, he sold out of his firm and founded Joy-Filled Marriage New Jersey, and New Jersey Natural Family Planning Association, non-profit organizations dedicated to building a marriage culture through training, seminars, and conferences. Damon and his wife Melanie taught Natural Family Planning (NFP) for 14 years, and served as NFP Coordinators for the Archdiocese of Newark (NJ). A Certified Speaker for the Theology of the Body Institute, National Trainer for Ascension Press, and presenter at the 2015 World Meeting of Families, Damon keeps a <a href="https://joytob.org/talk-topics/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">full international speaking schedule at conferences, marriage seminars, universities, high schools, seminaries, and parishes</a> on the good news of marriage, sexuality, Theology of the Body, Theology of the Family, adoption, and NFP. Damon currently lives outside Philadelphia with his wife Melanie and their eight children. You can also connect with Damon on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/thejoytob/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/thejoytob" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li> Battle for the Body: <a href="http://podplayer.net/#/?id=28331847" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Exorcising the Manichaean Demon and Reclaiming the Sacred Theology of our Body Podcast</a> by Christopher West</li> <li>Integrity Restored Data on Porn: 51% of Americans regularly use pornography and over 80% of 15-17 year olds have been exposed to hard core pornography</li> <li>Helen Alvare (from <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-9-freedom-part-2/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 9</a>)quoted Giusanni about sadness and despair being opposite emotions. Sadness is OK because it is still rooted in hope, despair is not rooted in hope. <a href="http://english.clonline.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Communion and Liberation</a> – Luigi Giusanni</li> </ul>   SPECIAL MUSIC by Teresa Peterson – pre-order her new <a href="https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/teresa-peterson-faithful/x/8152925#/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Album, Faithful</a> You can see her music video for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=slc6yDG1w6I" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Faithful here on Youtube</a> Call to Action –  See the other person’s heart and not their outerwear. Seeing and understanding that mercy is love’s second name. Let us ask the Lord to give us the Grace to see others the way He sees them.  Scripture –  “13 Jesus said to her, “Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, 14 but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” 15 The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” – John 4:13-15 Saint Quote – “It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you; He is the beauty to which you are so attracted; it is He who provoked you with that thirst for fullness that will not let you settle for compromise; it is He who urges you to shed the masks of a false life; it is He who reads in your heart your most genuine choices, the choices that others try to stifle. It is Jesus who stirs in you the desire to do something great with your lives, the will to follow an ideal, the refusal to allow yourselves to be ground down by mediocrity, the courage to commit yourselves humbly and patiently to improving yourselves and society, making the world more human and more fraternal.” – St. John Paul II

Episode 30: Modesty, The Full Story – Damon Owens

Living in this post Christian culture, many have offered options for us to live out the Gospel and to fight this civilization of decay. This week’s guest, Dr. Carrie Gress, offers us an option with plenty of historical success. The Marian Option is rooted in the tradition of going to Our Blessed Mother who has fought and won plenty of wars in the past and brought about massive conversion through her intercession. We know we can’t all head to the hills and ignore what is going on in the world, but we can choose to live out our dynamic feminine gifts focusing on this virtue of meekness. We are not talking about becoming a doormat as the culture wrongfully imposes on this Christian idea of meekness – meekness is certainly not weakness. We hope you are encouraged and exhorted to go to Mary to see how she is asking you to become more like her son, Jesus. Please consider supporting our Podcast   Our Guest:  Carrie Gress has a doctorate in philosophy from the Catholic University of America and is a faculty member at Pontifex University. Dr. Gress is a regular blogger at The National Catholic Register and has written for Aleteia, Catholic Vote, Catholic World Report, The Federalist, and The Stream, She is a frequent guest on Ave Maria Radio, EWTN Radio, and Relevant Radio, and has appeared on BBC, CBC, and EWTN television. Dr. Gress has lived and worked professionally in Washington, D.C. and Rome, Italy and her work has been translated into seven languages. She is the author of Nudging Conversions: A Practical Guide to Bringing Those You Love Back to the Church, Ultimate Makeover: The Transforming Power of Motherhoodand co-author with George Weigel of City of Saints; A Pilgrim’s Guide to John Paul II’s Krakow. Her latest book, The Marian Option: God’s Solution to a Civilization in Crisis, was released May, 2017. A homeschooling mother of four, Dr. Gress and her family live in Virginia. You can find links to Carrie’s articles, books, and speaker information at CarrieGress.com Show Notes:  Carrie’s Amazon Author page where you can purchase any of her books.  Warriors and Worriers and the Battle of the Sexes by Joyce Benenson National Catholic Register – Carrie Gress  Anti-Mary blog post by Carrie National Geographic May 2015 – How the Virgin Mary Became the Most Powerful Woman in the World St. Francis de Sales – Geneva, Switzerland  Call to Action –  Let us all seek to readjust our mindset around this word meek.  Let’s think on the description of this virtue of womanhood with the words benevolent, kind, humble, and unassuming. And as St. Francis de Sales encourages us, let us start with those who are our closest comapanions.  Scripture –  “He leads the humble in what is right,     and teaches the humble his way.” – Psalm 25:9 Saint Quote – “Let us strive to be kind, meek, and humble with everyone, but especially so with those whom God destined to be our companions. Let us not be one of those who are angels in public and devils at home” – St. Francis de Sales

Living in this post Christian culture, many have offered options for us to live out the Gospel and to fight this civilization of decay. This week’s guest, Dr. Carrie Gress, offers us an option with plenty of historical success. The Marian Option is rooted in the tradition of going to Our Blessed Mother who has fought and won plenty of wars in the past and brought about massive conversion through her intercession. We know we can’t all head to the hills and ignore what is going on in the world, but we can choose to live out our dynamic feminine gifts focusing on this virtue of meekness. We are not talking about becoming a doormat as the culture wrongfully imposes on this Christian idea of meekness – meekness is certainly not weakness. We hope you are encouraged and exhorted to go to Mary to see how she is asking you to become more like her son, Jesus. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Carrie Gress has a doctorate in philosophy from the Catholic University of America and is a faculty member at Pontifex University. Dr. Gress is a regular blogger at The National Catholic Register and has written for Aleteia, Catholic Vote, Catholic World Report, The Federalist, and The Stream, She is a frequent guest on Ave Maria Radio, EWTN Radio, and Relevant Radio, and has appeared on BBC, CBC, and EWTN television. Dr. Gress has lived and worked professionally in Washington, D.C. and Rome, Italy and her work has been translated into seven languages. She is the author of Nudging Conversions: A Practical Guide to Bringing Those You Love Back to the Church, Ultimate Makeover: The Transforming Power of Motherhoodand co-author with George Weigel of City of Saints; A Pilgrim’s Guide to John Paul II’s Krakow. Her latest book, The Marian Option: God’s Solution to a Civilization in Crisis, was released May, 2017. A homeschooling mother of four, Dr. Gress and her family live in Virginia. You can find links to Carrie’s articles, books, and speaker information at <a href="http://www.carriegress.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CarrieGress.com</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li>Carrie’s <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Carrie-Gress/e/B071YXRNBW/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1506180818&amp;sr=8-2-ent" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amazon Author page</a> where you can purchase any of her books.</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Warriors-Worriers-Survival-Joyce-Benenson/dp/0199972230/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506181066&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=warriors+and+worriers" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Warriors and Worriers and the Battle of the Sexes</a> by Joyce Benenson</li> <li><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/blog/cgress" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Catholic Register – Carrie Gress</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/blog/cgress/if-there-is-an-antichrist-what-about-an-antimary" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Anti-Mary blog post by Carrie</a></li> <li><a href="http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/2015/12/virgin-mary-text" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">National Geographic May 2015</a> – How the Virgin Mary Became the Most Powerful Woman in the World</li> <li><a href="http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=51" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">St. Francis de Sales – Geneva, Switzerland</a></li> </ul> Call to Action –  Let us all seek to readjust our mindset around this word meek.  Let’s think on the description of this virtue of womanhood with the words benevolent, kind, humble, and unassuming. And as St. Francis de Sales encourages us, let us start with those who are our closest comapanions.  Scripture –  “He leads the humble in what is right,     and teaches the humble his way.” – Psalm 25:9 Saint Quote – “Let us strive to be kind, meek, and humble with everyone, but especially so with those whom God destined to be our companions. Let us not be one of those who are angels in public and devils at home” – St. Francis de Sales

Episode 21: Dr. Carrie Gress – The Marian Option

Sonja Corbitt

Last week we introduced you all to the topic of what is called a father wound.  John Finch talked about this father effect and shared how his absent father caused a wound that led to very unhealthy coping mechanisms. This week, we are so thankful to have Sonja Corbitt with us to start the journey of healing the father wound. Sonja is currently running a radio series (also available via podcast) about healing the father wound. Ladies, this part of the conversation is what will help us to move forward but first, we have to go backward. Please remember that this pain is meant to heal, so do not lose hope friends. There is hope in the One and the Only, Jesus Christ. There is no redemption without the cross.  There is no Easter Sunday without Good Friday. Rest in Christ and His love for you through this process. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest: Sonja erupted on the scene with her explosive book, Unleashed, where she shared how the Holy Spirit is freeing her from her patterns of toxic relationships, self-medicating habits, awful circumstances, and overwhelming desires. Now she’s showing up everywhere. Her 13-episode Unleashed TV series, perfect for study groups, aired weekly on CatholicTV, Focus TV, and Christian Associates TV. Soon after, her radio show Bible Study Evangelista launched on Real Life Radio, Breadbox Media, and St. Gabriel Radio. Sonja continues to offer brief, topical Bible study series. You can catch the show every week by subscribing below to the Monday morning email, or listen via podcast on iTunes, TuneIn, GooglePlay, Podbean, or Stitcher.  Look for her new release, Fearless, A Catholic Woman’s Guide to Spiritual Warfare; and Ignite, Read the Bible Like Never Before with Deacon Harold Burke Sivers summer of 2017. Sonja writes regularly for Jeff Cavins’ The Great Adventure Bible Study Blog and in Magnificat magazine, and speaks around the world. If you’d like to be part of The Evangelista Evolution, subscribe below. You’ll automatically get every episode of her newest Bible study series for free on Monday morning of each week – or on a monthly, or semi-annual basis as you choose – and no . Reviews and endorsements on Sonja are here. Or, to contact Sonja or book her for your next great event, kindly email: hello @ biblestudyevangelista.com.   Show Notes:  Sonja’s podcast episodes including the Healing the Father Wound series LOVE the Word Episodes  The Collected Works of John of the Cross  Call to Action: This week, focus on taking the time to sit with The Word, the Lord Jesus the Word Incarnate. Learn to LOVE the Word by practicing Lisening, Observing, Verbalizing, and Entrusting Jesus through the Scriptures. Scripture: “Be angry, but sin not;     commune with your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.  Offer right sacrifices,     and put your trust in the Lord.” -Psalm 4:4-5 Saint Quote: “Nothing great is ever achieved without much endurance” – St. Catherine of Siena

Last week we introduced you all to the topic of what is called a father wound.  John Finch talked about this father effect and shared how his absent father caused a wound that led to very unhealthy coping mechanisms. This week, we are so thankful to have Sonja Corbitt with us to start the journey of healing the father wound. Sonja is currently running a radio series (also available via podcast) about healing the father wound. Ladies, this part of the conversation is what will help us to move forward but first, we have to go backward. Please remember that this pain is meant to heal, so do not lose hope friends. There is hope in the One and the Only, Jesus Christ. There is no redemption without the cross.  There is no Easter Sunday without Good Friday. Rest in Christ and His love for you through this process. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Sonja erupted on the scene with her explosive book, <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/shop/unleashed-book/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Unleashed,</a> where she shared how the Holy Spirit is freeing her from her patterns of toxic relationships, self-medicating habits, awful circumstances, and overwhelming desires. Now she’s showing up everywhere. Her 13-episode <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/shop/unleashed-dvd-series/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Unleashed TV</a> series, perfect for study groups, aired weekly on CatholicTV, Focus TV, and Christian Associates TV. Soon after, her<a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/lovetheword/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank"> radio show </a>Bible Study Evangelista launched on Real Life Radio, Breadbox Media, and St. Gabriel Radio. Sonja continues to offer brief, topical Bible study series. You can <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/lovetheword/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">catch the show </a>every week by subscribing below to the Monday morning email, or listen via podcast on iTunes, TuneIn, GooglePlay, Podbean, or Stitcher. Look for her new release, <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/shop/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">Fearless, A Catholic Woman’s Guide to Spiritual Warfare; and Ignite, Read the Bible Like Never Before </a>with Deacon Harold Burke Sivers summer of 2017. Sonja writes regularly for Jeff Cavins’ <a href="http://biblestudyforcatholics.com/author/sonja-corbitt/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">The Great Adventure Bible Study Blog </a>and in Magnificat magazine, and <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/upcoming-events/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">speaks around the world.</a> If you’d like to be part of The Evangelista Evolution, subscribe below. You’ll automatically get every episode of her newest Bible study series for free on Monday morning of each week – or on a monthly, or semi-annual basis as you choose – and no . Reviews and endorsements on Sonja <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/appearances/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">are here.</a> Or, to contact Sonja or book her for your next great event, kindly email: hello @ <a href="http://biblestudyevangelista.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">biblestudyevangelista.com</a>.   Show Notes: <ul> <li>Sonja’s <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/lovetheword/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">podcast episodes</a> including the Healing the Father Wound series</li> <li><a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/learn-to-love-the-word/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">LOVE the Word Episodes</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Collected-Works-St-John-Cross/dp/0935216154/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1507760497&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=john%20of%20the%20cross%20collected%20works" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Collected Works of John of the Cross</a></li> </ul> Call to Action: This week, focus on taking the time to sit with The Word, the Lord Jesus the Word Incarnate. Learn to LOVE the Word by practicing Lisening, Observing, Verbalizing, and Entrusting Jesus through the Scriptures. Scripture: “Be angry, but sin not;     commune with your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.  Offer right sacrifices,     and put your trust in the Lord.” -Psalm 4:4-5 Saint Quote: “Nothing great is ever achieved without much endurance” – St. Catherine of Siena

Episode 24: Healing the Father Wound – Sonja Corbitt

Dwija Borobia

If you would like to hear how in the world a Hare Krishna grows up to be a Catholic homeschooling momma of 7 beautiful children on a farm in Michigan, then you need to check in this week for our summer series.  Dwija B0robia share with us about her life in a very real way giving all of us in the trenches the reminder that no one’s life is picture perfect nor even easy.  We all have our strengths and our weaknesses, but without Christ, none of it is even possible.  Moving from self reliance to God reliance is pivotal to our journey in happiness. We hope you enjoy this sweet conversation we were so privileged to have with @houseunseen Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:      Dwija B0robia lives on 13 acres in rural Southwest Michigan with 14 chickens, 7 kids, 2 dogs, 1 duck and 1 very patient husband. In her plentiful down time, she homeschools, gardens badly, and finds good deals on dansko clogs on the internet.  She likes her sacraments Catholic and her beer cold.  Blog: www.houseunseen.com   But best place to actually follow is on Instagram @houseunseen   Show Notes:  Teresa Peterson – Calling Me Higher youTube video  Call to Action –  Let’s see if we can focus on and pray for awareness in areas where we tend to be self reliant rather than God reliant. And let us ask the Holy Spirit to give us a teachable spirit so that we can be reliant on God and being willing to let go of any spiritual pride. Scripture –  “And so, from the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 to lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. 11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us[b] to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.”       Colossians 1:9-12 Saint Quote – “May the strength of God pilot us, may the wisdom of God instruct us, may the hand of God protect us, and may the Word of God direct us.” – St. Patrick

If you would like to hear how in the world a Hare Krishna grows up to be a Catholic homeschooling momma of 7 beautiful children on a farm in Michigan, then you need to check in this week for our summer series.  Dwija B0robia share with us about her life in a very real way giving all of us in the trenches the reminder that no one’s life is picture perfect nor even easy.  We all have our strengths and our weaknesses, but without Christ, none of it is even possible.  Moving from self reliance to God reliance is pivotal to our journey in happiness. We hope you enjoy this sweet conversation we were so privileged to have with @houseunseen Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Dwija B0robia lives on 13 acres in rural Southwest Michigan with 14 chickens, 7 kids, 2 dogs, 1 duck and 1 very patient husband. In her plentiful down time, she homeschools, gardens badly, and finds good deals on dansko clogs on the internet.  She likes her sacraments Catholic and her beer cold.  Blog: <a href="http://www.houseunseen.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.houseunseen.com  </a> But best place to actually follow is on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/houseunseen/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@houseunseen</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li>Teresa Peterson – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kIqm0r0rMs8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Calling Me Higher youTube video</a></li> </ul> Call to Action –  Let’s see if we can focus on and pray for awareness in areas where we tend to be self reliant rather than God reliant. And let us ask the Holy Spirit to give us a teachable spirit so that we can be reliant on God and being willing to let go of any spiritual pride. Scripture –  “And so, from the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, 10 to lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. 11 May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Colossians+1#fen-RSVCE-33636b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">b</a>] to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.”       Colossians 1:9-12 Saint Quote – “May the strength of God pilot us, may the wisdom of God instruct us, may the hand of God protect us, and may the Word of God direct us.” – St. Patrick

Episode 18: Dwija Borobia of houseunseen

Why is the Catholic Church who She says She is? When Paul wrote to Timothy in Chapter 3 of 1 Timothy, why did he tell him that “the church” was the pillar and foundation of truth and it would tell how one ought to behave in the household of God? Who is this church? Who leads it? Who protects the teachings? How can we trust it? On the 500th anniversary of the protestant revolution, we knew Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers was the man for the job to answer these questions. As Catholic women striving to thrive in our trenches of our feminine vocations, why is submitting to Mother Church, The Catholic Church, a vital piece of our lives? Our Dynamic Deacon does not shy from the Truth nor does he speak without charity. We humbly pray that all will be touched by the beauty and fullness that our Catholic faith offers us. We have a great gift, let us treasure it and share it with all of our seperated brothers and sisters and call for the unity that has been protected and upheld in the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. Jesus prayed for unity in John 17, let us do the same. Please consider supporting our Podcast   Guest: Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers    Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers – known around the world as the “Dynamic Deacon” – is one of the most sought-after speakers in the Church today. He is a powerful and passionate evangelist and preacher, whose no-nonsense approach to living and proclaiming the Catholic faith is sure to challenge and inspire those who hear him. He travels across the United States and around the world speaking at conferences, workshops, retreats, parish missions, high schools, and young adult events – in short, to everyone who desires to know Jesus intimately and enjoy a deeper personal relationship with Him. His areas of expertise include marriage and family life, discerning the will of God, the sacraments, male spirituality, pro-life issues, evangelization, prayer, and many others. Deacon Harold holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame, and a Master of Theological Studies Degree from the University of Dallas. He co-hosts the weekly broadcast, “Living Stones,” every Monday on Mater Dei Radio, and has appeared as a guest on numerous other national and international radio programs, including “Catholic Answers Live” and “Vocation Boom Radio.” In addition, he is the host or co-host of several popular series on EWTN television. Deacon is featured on the award winning Chosen faith formation program by Ascension Press and the author of the best-selling book, Behold the Man: A Catholic Vision of Male Spirituality published by Ignatius Press, and co-author of the acclaimed new book, Ignite: Read the Bible Like Never Before. Deacon Harold is featured on The Greatest Commandments: A 40-Week Spiritual Journey for Married Couples, a vibrant marriage-enrichment program rooted in biblical values and designed to help husbands and wives know God better, trust Him fully and love Him completely throughout the course of their married lives. Retaining a deep love of Benedictine spirituality which he gained during his time discerning a call to that religious community, Deacon Harold is a Benedictine Oblate of Mt. Angel Abbey. He is also a member of the Fellowship of Catholic Scholars and the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy. As the president and CEO of The Saint Joseph Center, Deacon Harold oversees that nonprofit organization’s endeavors, which include hosting an international institute for Catholic male spirituality, coordinating dynamic speaking tours and life-changing retreats, and developing products and services that support family life. Most importantly, he is married to his lovely wife, Colleen, and they have four beautiful children. They live in Portland, Oregon, where Deacon Harold is assigned to Immaculate Heart Catholic Church. View Deacon Harold’s Curriculum Vitae Show Notes:  Find all of Deacon Harold’s contact information and available books and speaker engagement information at DeaconHarold.com Full pdf of Amoris Laetitia Lumen Gentium Humanae Vitae Living Stones podcast series “The Joy of Love” which goes through Amoris Laetitia hosted by Deacon Harold and Ken Hallenius  Behold the Man – Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers  The Mass in Sacred Scripture – Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers The Pope who tried to re translate the Bible – Pope Sixtus  Pope Fiction by Patirck Madrid  Call to Action: On Tuesday, October 31, let us gather in the adoration chapels around the country and world to pray in front of the Blessed Sacrament as Jesus prayed in John 17, “that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” Let us continue to pray for the healing of the Body of Christ and unity amongst all believers so that the world might know God. Scripture:  “14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily growth and upbuilds itself in love”. –Ephesians 4:14-16 Saint Quote: “There are not over a hundred people in the United States who hate the Catholic Church. There are millions, however, who hate what they wrongly believe to be the Catholic Church – which is, of course, quite a different thing.”  (Excerpt taken from a talk by Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen on Radio Replies – click here to read it’s entirety)

Why is the Catholic Church who She says She is? When Paul wrote to Timothy in Chapter 3 of 1 Timothy, why did he tell him that “the church” was the pillar and foundation of truth and it would tell how one ought to behave in the household of God? Who is this church? Who leads it? Who protects the teachings? How can we trust it? On the 500th anniversary of the protestant revolution, we knew Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers was the man for the job to answer these questions. As Catholic women striving to thrive in our trenches of our feminine vocations, why is submitting to Mother Church, The Catholic Church, a vital piece of our lives? Our Dynamic Deacon does not shy from the Truth nor does he speak without charity. We humbly pray that all will be touched by the beauty and fullness that our Catholic faith offers us. We have a great gift, let us treasure it and share it with all of our seperated brothers and sisters and call for the unity that has been protected and upheld in the one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. Jesus prayed for unity in John 17, let us do the same. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast   Guest: Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers – known around the world as the “Dynamic Deacon” – is one of the most sought-after speakers in the Church today. He is a powerful and passionate evangelist and preacher, whose no-nonsense approach to living and proclaiming the Catholic faith is sure to challenge and inspire those who hear him. He travels across the United States and around the world speaking at conferences, workshops, retreats, parish missions, high schools, and young adult events – in short, to everyone who desires to know Jesus intimately and enjoy a deeper personal relationship with Him. His areas of expertise include marriage and family life, discerning the will of God, the sacraments, male spirituality, pro-life issues, evangelization, prayer, and many others. Deacon Harold holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Business Administration from the University of Notre Dame, and a Master of Theological Studies Degree from the University of Dallas. He co-hosts the weekly broadcast, “Living Stones,” every Monday on Mater Dei Radio, and has appeared as a guest on numerous other national and international radio programs, including “Catholic Answers Live” and “Vocation Boom Radio.” In addition, he is the host or co-host of several popular series on EWTN television. Deacon is featured on the award winning Chosen faith formation program by Ascension Press and the author of the best-selling book, Behold the Man: A Catholic Vision of Male Spirituality published by Ignatius Press, and co-author of the acclaimed new book, Ignite: Read the Bible Like Never Before. Deacon Harold is featured on The Greatest Commandments: A 40-Week Spiritual Journey for Married Couples, a vibrant marriage-enrichment program rooted in biblical values and designed to help husbands and wives know God better, trust Him fully and love Him completely throughout the course of their married lives. Retaining a deep love of Benedictine spirituality which he gained during his time discerning a call to that religious community, Deacon Harold is a Benedictine Oblate of Mt. Angel Abbey. He is also a member of the Fellowship of Catholic Scholars and the Confraternity of Catholic Clergy. As the president and CEO of The Saint Joseph Center, Deacon Harold oversees that nonprofit organization’s endeavors, which include hosting an international institute for Catholic male spirituality, coordinating dynamic speaking tours and life-changing retreats, and developing products and services that support family life. Most importantly, he is married to his lovely wife, Colleen, and they have four beautiful children. They live in Portland, Oregon, where Deacon Harold is assigned to Immaculate Heart Catholic Church. View Deacon Harold’s <a href="http://www.auremcordis.com/publications/deacon_harold_cv_2017.pdf" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Curriculum Vitae</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li>Find all of Deacon Harold’s contact information and available books and speaker engagement information at <a href="https://deaconharold.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">DeaconHarold.com</a></li> <li>Full pdf of <a href="https://w2.vatican.va/content/dam/francesco/pdf/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20160319_amoris-laetitia_en.pdf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Amoris Laetitia</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ewtn.com/library/councils/v2church.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Lumen Gentium</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.newadvent.org/library/docs_pa06hv.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Humanae Vitae</a></li> <li>Living Stones podcast series <a href="http://www.livingstonesmedia.org/search/amoris+laetitia/page/2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">“The Joy of Love”</a> which goes through Amoris Laetitia hosted by Deacon Harold and Ken Hallenius</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Behold-Man-Catholic-Vision-Spirituality/dp/1586178873/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1509291355&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=behold+the+man" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Behold the Man</a> – Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Scripture-Deacon-Harold-Burke-Sivers-ebook/dp/B008BK2WJS/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1509291513&amp;sr=1-2&amp;keywords=Mass+in+the+sacred+Scripture" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Mass in Sacred Scripture</a> – Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers</li> <li><a href="http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/14033a.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Pope who tried to re translate the Bible</a> – Pope Sixtus</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Pope-Fiction-Answers-Misconceptions-Papacy/dp/0964261006/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1509293017&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=pope+fiction" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Pope Fiction</a> by Patirck Madrid</li> </ul> Call to Action: On Tuesday, October 31, let us gather in the adoration chapels around the country and world to pray in front of the Blessed Sacrament as Jesus prayed in John 17, “that they may all be one; even as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” Let us continue to pray for the healing of the Body of Christ and unity amongst all believers so that the world might know God. Scripture:  “14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily growth and upbuilds itself in love”. –Ephesians 4:14-16 Saint Quote: “There are not over a hundred people in the United States who hate the Catholic Church. There are millions, however, who hate what they wrongly believe to be the Catholic Church – which is, of course, quite a different thing.”  (Excerpt taken from a talk by Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen on <a href="http://www.radioreplies.info/vol-1-preface.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Radio Replies – click here to read it’s entirety)</a>

Episode 26: The Church – Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers

Christopher West

So we know that you have likely heard about Theology of the Body through many sources, including us. You are also likely familiar with world renowned speaker, Christopher West. In this episode of our podcast, Christopher really just preaches the Gospel of Grace, Mercy, and Love. The Gospel of God’s love for each and everyone of us. Our goal in this interview was to speak life into the soul of anyone listening and share in the hope that comes from the love of Abba Father. Our world has been fed so many lies about sex, sexuality, beauty, our bodies, our desires, and our sins by many different fundamental religious. We are not called to be white washed tombs nor perfectionist, yet we are called to the way of perfection. We are not created to be a sack of dead bones, but a living soul and body created by love and for love. Part 1 of 2 – Join us next week for the rest of the story. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest: Christopher West is a proud husband and father of five. His global lecturing, best-selling books and multiple audio and video programs have made him the world’s most recognized teacher of John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” – a bold, biblical vision of love and sexuality that takes us to the “cor” of what it means to be human. As founder and president of The Cor Project, Christopher leads an international outreach devoted to spreading this liberating teaching and empowering others to learn, live, and share it. His work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and countless Catholic and Evangelical media outlets. Beyond his work as a popularizer of the Theology of the Body, Christopher has been teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on the subject since the late 1990s, having served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha, and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Melbourne, Australia. In 2004, he helped establish the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia, Pa., and serves today as Senior Lecturer of Theology and Christian Anthropology. His weeklong courses there continue to draw students from around the world. Among Christopher’s best-selling books are Theology of the Body for Beginners, Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage, At the Heart of the Gospel, Fill These Hearts and Pope Francis To Go: Bite-Sized Morsels from The Joy of the Gospel. His latest release is a free eBook Theology of the Body at the Movies, which can be downloaded at corproject.com/movies. You can stay in touch with Christopher at corproject.com and by following Christopher West (cwestofficial) on Facebook and Twitter (@cwestTOB) and on his new YouTube Channel: The Cor Project. You can also learn more about becoming a Cor Member and the many exclusive benefits you receive at cormembership.com. Show Notes:  The Cry of the Heart Video by Christopher West Registration is open for Christopher’s TOB Pilgrimage to Italy. Click here for details. Make sure you check out Christopher’s new program for Made for More Find all of Christopher’s  many books on Amazon.com Love and Responsibility by John Paul ii   Call to Action –  Take the time to get honest with Jesus, let him into all the dark places in your own heart so that He can really shine his light and love and mercy into your deepest hurts. Scripture –  “17 Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation;[a] the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, God was in Christ reconciling[b] the world to himself,[c] not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” – 2 Cor 5: 17-19 Quote –  “The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus. Those who accept his offer of salvation are set free from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness and loneliness. With Christ joy is constantly born anew.” – Pope Francis

So we know that you have likely heard about Theology of the Body through many sources, including us. You are also likely familiar with world renowned speaker, Christopher West. In this episode of our podcast, Christopher really just preaches the Gospel of Grace, Mercy, and Love. The Gospel of God’s love for each and everyone of us. Our goal in this interview was to speak life into the soul of anyone listening and share in the hope that comes from the love of Abba Father. Our world has been fed so many lies about sex, sexuality, beauty, our bodies, our desires, and our sins by many different fundamental religious. We are not called to be white washed tombs nor perfectionist, yet we are called to the way of perfection. We are not created to be a sack of dead bones, but a living soul and body created by love and for love. Part 1 of 2 – Join us next week for the rest of the story. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Christopher West is a proud husband and father of five. His global lecturing, best-selling books and multiple audio and video programs have made him the world’s most recognized teacher of John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” – a bold, biblical vision of love and sexuality that takes us to the “cor” of what it means to be human. As founder and president of The Cor Project, Christopher leads an international outreach devoted to spreading this liberating teaching and empowering others to learn, live, and share it. His work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and countless Catholic and Evangelical media outlets. Beyond his work as a popularizer of the Theology of the Body, Christopher has been teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on the subject since the late 1990s, having served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha, and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Melbourne, Australia. In 2004, he helped establish the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia, Pa., and serves today as Senior Lecturer of Theology and Christian Anthropology. His weeklong courses there continue to draw students from around the world. Among Christopher’s best-selling books are Theology of the Body for Beginners, Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage, At the Heart of the Gospel, Fill These Hearts and Pope Francis To Go: Bite-Sized Morsels from The Joy of the Gospel. His latest release is a free eBook Theology of the Body at the Movies, which can be downloaded at <a href="http://corproject.com/movies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">corproject.com/movies</a>. You can stay in touch with Christopher at <a href="http://corproject.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">corproject.com</a> and by following Christopher West (cwestofficial) on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/cwestTOB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@cwestTOB) and on his new <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCleUptk8l6KEuJpVOWCYJ-w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube Channel: The Cor Project</a>. You can also learn more about becoming a Cor Member and the many exclusive benefits you receive at <a href="http://cormembership.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cormembership.com</a>. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4QWSiAvBgs&amp;t=2s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Cry of the Heart</a> Video by Christopher West</li> <li>Registration is open for Christopher’s TOB Pilgrimage to Italy. Click <a href="http://corproject.com/italy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> for details.</li> <li>Make sure you check out Christopher’s new program for <a href="http://corproject.com/madeformore/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Made for More</a></li> <li>Find all of Christopher’s <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christopher-West/e/B001K8H50E/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1518104455&amp;sr=8-2-ent" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> many books on Amazon.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ignatius.com/Love-and-Responsibility-P1550.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love and Responsibility</a> by John Paul ii</li> </ul> Call to Action –  Take the time to get honest with Jesus, let him into all the dark places in your own heart so that He can really shine his light and love and mercy into your deepest hurts. Scripture –  “17 Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation;[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+5&amp;version=RSVCE#fen-RSVCE-33053a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a</a>] the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 that is, God was in Christ reconciling[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+5&amp;version=RSVCE#fen-RSVCE-33055b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">b</a>] the world to himself,[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+5&amp;version=RSVCE#fen-RSVCE-33055c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">c</a>] not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation.” – 2 Cor 5: 17-19 Quote –  “The joy of the gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus. Those who accept his offer of salvation are set free from sin, sorrow, inner emptiness and loneliness. With Christ joy is constantly born anew.” – Pope Francis

Episode 36: Christopher West – Part 1: The Cor of the Gospel

Katie Curtis

In the last episode of our summer series, we had the most delightful conversation with writer, blogger, and foodie, Katie Curtis.  We definitely talk about more than food, but Katie shares with us how food has become a source of memories. Both from her childhood and also as a way to make memories with her own family, food is at the root of these memories.  Living in a liturgical paradigm also helps us eat with the seasons in a way that connects us to God’s beautiful and plentiful bounty.  Katie shares how God used times of isolation to grow her in her love of others, whether family or neighbors, and use food and fellowship to build friendships and family relationships.  So, pull out your old cookbooks, find a family favorite recipe, put on some good music, pour a glass of wine, invite your friends or neighbors, and eat and laugh and commune together.  Break bread together friends, delight in God’s gift of food and relationships. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest: Katie Curtis started blogging when she was completely capsized by motherhood. Katie dropped out of a PhD program in Philosophy, had a traveling husband, and 3 kids in 3 years. Her heart felt like it had grown 1,000 times bigger, and the growing pains hurt. But cooking for her people always made everything better. Katie started really cooking when she was 30 – as in read all the cookbooks cover to cover and started to know the exact week when fiddlehead ferns or peaches are in season – but she blames most of her love of food on her childhood. Our guest grew up in a big Irish Catholic family where her mom made Asparagus with Hollandaise, German potato salad with bacon and vinegar, stuffed pork tenderloin and carrots with butter and parsley, and homemade banana creme cake. Sometimes all in the same meal. Katie’s mom and inspiration studied in France and those studies influenced her love of good food which she passed down to her family. This is when Katie started to see that food is memories. “The family table nourished and shaped me, and I hope to do the same for my family.” “I hope to help other families find easy ways to make memories too.” –Katie Curtis You can find the author’s work at Coastal Home Magazine and NH Magazine. She also writes a lot here. And you must take the time to delight yourself in Katie’s first novel just released earlier this summer.  The storyline and characters in  Wideness of the Sea will captivate your heart and imagination. When Katie is not cooking dinner, she is editing her first memoir, to be published in in the near future, incubating twins due in October, or chauffeuring her 4 other kids around. She also likes to daydream about living in France with her crew and having all the laundry done for longer then 30 seconds. You can follow Katie on Facebook , Instagram and stay updated on all the good food and family life at her blog The Humble Onion.   Show Notes:   How to Cook a Wolf by M.F.K. Fisher  My Life in France   by Julia Child and Alex Prud’homme Blogger and Author – David Lebovitz Blogger and Author – Ruth Reichl 

In the last episode of our summer series, we had the most delightful conversation with writer, blogger, and foodie, Katie Curtis.  We definitely talk about more than food, but Katie shares with us how food has become a source of memories. Both from her childhood and also as a way to make memories with her own family, food is at the root of these memories.  Living in a liturgical paradigm also helps us eat with the seasons in a way that connects us to God’s beautiful and plentiful bounty.  Katie shares how God used times of isolation to grow her in her love of others, whether family or neighbors, and use food and fellowship to build friendships and family relationships.  So, pull out your old cookbooks, find a family favorite recipe, put on some good music, pour a glass of wine, invite your friends or neighbors, and eat and laugh and commune together.  Break bread together friends, delight in God’s gift of food and relationships. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Katie Curtis started blogging when she was completely capsized by motherhood. Katie dropped out of a PhD program in Philosophy, had a traveling husband, and 3 kids in 3 years. Her heart felt like it had grown 1,000 times bigger, and the growing pains hurt. But cooking for her people always made everything better. Katie started really cooking when she was 30 – as in read all the cookbooks cover to cover and started to know the exact week when fiddlehead ferns or peaches are in season – but she blames most of her love of food on her childhood. Our guest grew up in a big Irish Catholic family where her mom made Asparagus with Hollandaise, German potato salad with bacon and vinegar, stuffed pork tenderloin and carrots with butter and parsley, and homemade banana creme cake. Sometimes all in the same meal. Katie’s mom and inspiration studied in France and those studies influenced her love of good food which she passed down to her family. This is when Katie started to see that food is memories. “The family table nourished and shaped me, and I hope to do the same for my family.” “I hope to help other families find easy ways to make memories too.” –Katie Curtis You can find the author’s work at <a href="http://www.coastalhg.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Coastal Home Magazine</a> and <a href="http://www.nhmagazine.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">NH Magazine</a>. She also writes a lot <a href="http://www.katiecurtis.net/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. And you must take the time to delight yourself in Katie’s first novel just released earlier this summer.  The storyline and characters in <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wideness-Sea-Katie-Curtis/dp/1944393404/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1504888553&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=wideness+of+the+sea" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Wideness of the Sea</a> will captivate your heart and imagination. When Katie is not cooking dinner, she is editing her first memoir, to be published in in the near future, incubating twins due in October, or chauffeuring her 4 other kids around. She also likes to daydream about living in France with her crew and having all the laundry done for longer then 30 seconds. You can follow Katie on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/katiecurtiswrites/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> , <a href="https://www.instagram.com/katiecurtiswrites/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and stay updated on all the good food and family life at her blog <a href="http://thehumbleonion.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Humble Onion</a>.   Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/How-Cook-Wolf-M-F-K-Fisher/dp/0865473366/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1504894148&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=mfk+fisher+how+to+cook+a+wolf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> How to Cook a Wolf</a> by M.F.K. Fisher</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/My-Life-France-Julia-Child/dp/0307277690/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1504894268&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=my+life+in+france+julia+child" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> My Life in France  </a> by Julia Child and Alex Prud’homme</li> <li><a href="http://www.davidlebovitz.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blogger and Author – David Lebovitz</a></li> <li><a href="http://ruthreichl.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Blogger and Author – Ruth Reichl</a></li> </ul>

Episode 20:Food, Family, and Friends with Katie Curtis

John Finch

As seen on EWTN, John Finch has launched into a ministry of bringing to light The Father Effect. The father wound is no small topic and we here in the trenches feel like it is such an important one.  This interview with John Finch is very powerful and we hope it reaches out to all who need to hear it, men and women. Many people are wounded and hurting dearly but not really sure what is at the root of that pain. We are all wounded on some level because of some one and there is only One that can provide complete healing, Jesus Christ. We are God’s children and He sent the Word Incarnate to bring about our healing and as He has promised over and over in Scripture that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:   John Finch,  grew up the youngest of 3 boys in a suburb of Dallas where he lost his father to suicide at age 11. As a young man, John did anything he could to avoid confronting the wounds he suffered as a result of being fatherless. His craving for affirmation from a father who was not there to provide it, led him to seek that affirmation from the world in many unhealthy ways. In an attempt to find value as a man, he created a false persona that left him completely unfulfilled. His life was based on the pursuit of money in order to prove his success and he became a social alcoholic as he strived to be the life of every party and gain the attention of those around him. It was only when John realized and dealt with the unresolved issues of his father wound that he was able to become truly fulfilled. On April 20th, 2009, he finally came face to face with the issues that drove him to seek approval from a father who was not there to give it to him. By forgiving his father and recognizing what it truly means to be a man by God’s standard, he became a new man, husband and father. John seeks to break down the barriers that prevent men and women from addressing deep rooted anger and hurt from the wounds they have suffered in this life by candidly and openly sharing his story, his failings, and his path to a new way of life. John’s mission is to educate, encourage and equip men to become the fathers they were created to be, and to help men walk in daily awareness of their significant and lifelong influence as fathers. Through The Father Effect Movie, John shares stories and messages that will move viewers to a new awareness about the everlasting impact of fathers and the importance of forgiveness and openness in the relationships of this world. John has been married for 23 years. has three daughters and lives in Denton, Texas. He is the founder of The Perfect Father Ministries Inc, a 501(c) non-profit and EncouragingDads.com, a community of people from all of the world who share short stories to encourage dads. John’s new book,  The Father Effect, Based on the feature film of the same name, THE FATHER EFFECT is a must-read for the millions of men and women who have lost their fathers through divorce, death, or disinterest. John Finch always struggled after his father committed suicide when he was eleven, but it wasn’t until he was raising his own three daughters that he truly understood their futures relied on his coming to terms with his difficult past. To move forward, he needed to forgive both his father for choosing to leave, and himself for not being the best father he could be. This journey led to THE FATHER EFFECT, a book containing practical help for anyone, man or woman, with a deep father wound from losing a dad through divorce, death, or disinterest. Through positive lessons on forgiveness and approachable advice on how to change your legacy as a parent, partner, and person, THE FATHER EFFECT is the ultimate healing tool for anyone who has suffered the absence of a dad.     john@thefathereffect.com  www.TheFatherEffect.com  EncouragingDads.com  The Father Effect YouTube Channel  The Father Effect GodTube Channel  Facebook – The Father Effect Movie  Twitter – @johnpfinch  https://youtu.be/_iZnFPXVJ60   Show Notes:  John’s new book –  The Father Effect  Healing the Masculine Soul by Gordon Dalbey Father’s online community EncouragingDads.com Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin 1690   Inside EWTN article on The Father Effect EWTN Episode of Take 2 with Jerry and Debbie Interview with John Finch    Call to Action –  How can we support our husbands and other men in our lives in their roles as a father and also in their role as a son. First, go watch the YouTube video of the short film.  Affirm our spouses, sons, or any other man in our life suffering through a father wound.  Also for those not married or women who feel they are wounded, go watch the film and ask the Lord to reveal to them any father wound that they may be carrying themselves. We do this so that God may start a mighty work of healing and restoration in our lives. Scripture –   “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never fail you nor forsake you.” 6 Hence we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid; what can man do to me?” – Hebrews 13: 5-6 Saint Quote – “Sometimes the only way the good Lord can get into some hearts is to break them.” –Archbishop Fulton Sheen

As seen on EWTN, John Finch has launched into a ministry of bringing to light The Father Effect. The father wound is no small topic and we here in the trenches feel like it is such an important one.  This interview with John Finch is very powerful and we hope it reaches out to all who need to hear it, men and women. Many people are wounded and hurting dearly but not really sure what is at the root of that pain. We are all wounded on some level because of some one and there is only One that can provide complete healing, Jesus Christ. We are God’s children and He sent the Word Incarnate to bring about our healing and as He has promised over and over in Scripture that He will never leave us nor forsake us. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: John Finch,  grew up the youngest of 3 boys in a suburb of Dallas where he lost his father to suicide at age 11. As a young man, John did anything he could to avoid confronting the wounds he suffered as a result of being fatherless. His craving for affirmation from a father who was not there to provide it, led him to seek that affirmation from the world in many unhealthy ways. In an attempt to find value as a man, he created a false persona that left him completely unfulfilled. His life was based on the pursuit of money in order to prove his success and he became a social alcoholic as he strived to be the life of every party and gain the attention of those around him. It was only when John realized and dealt with the unresolved issues of his father wound that he was able to become truly fulfilled. On April 20th, 2009, he finally came face to face with the issues that drove him to seek approval from a father who was not there to give it to him. By forgiving his father and recognizing what it truly means to be a man by God’s standard, he became a new man, husband and father. John seeks to break down the barriers that prevent men and women from addressing deep rooted anger and hurt from the wounds they have suffered in this life by candidly and openly sharing his story, his failings, and his path to a new way of life. John’s mission is to educate, encourage and equip men to become the fathers they were created to be, and to help men walk in daily awareness of their significant and lifelong influence as fathers. Through The Father Effect Movie, John shares stories and messages that will move viewers to a new awareness about the everlasting impact of fathers and the importance of forgiveness and openness in the relationships of this world. John has been married for 23 years. has three daughters and lives in Denton, Texas. He is the founder of The Perfect Father Ministries Inc, a 501(c) non-profit and <a href="http://EncouragingDads.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">EncouragingDads.com</a>, a community of people from all of the world who share short stories to encourage dads. John’s new book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Father-Effect-Hope-Healing-Absence/dp/1478976861/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506549255&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=the+father+effect" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Father Effect</a>, Based on the feature film of the same name, THE FATHER EFFECT is a must-read for the millions of men and women who have lost their fathers through divorce, death, or disinterest. John Finch always struggled after his father committed suicide when he was eleven, but it wasn’t until he was raising his own three daughters that he truly understood their futures relied on his coming to terms with his difficult past. To move forward, he needed to forgive both his father for choosing to leave, and himself for not being the best father he could be. This journey led to THE FATHER EFFECT, a book containing practical help for anyone, man or woman, with a deep father wound from losing a dad through divorce, death, or disinterest. Through positive lessons on forgiveness and approachable advice on how to change your legacy as a parent, partner, and person, THE FATHER EFFECT is the ultimate healing tool for anyone who has suffered the absence of a dad. <a href="mailto:john@thefathereffect.com" rel="noopener">john@thefathereffect.com</a> <a href="http://www.thefathereffect.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.TheFatherEffect.com</a> <a href="http://encouragingdads.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> EncouragingDads.com</a> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TheFatherEffect?feature=mhee" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> The Father Effect YouTube Channel</a> <a href="http://www.godtube.com/thefathereffect/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> The Father Effect GodTube Channel</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Father-Effect-Movie/211007652267276#" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> Facebook – The Father Effect Movie</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/johnpfinch" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> Twitter – @johnpfinch</a> <a href="https://youtu.be/_iZnFPXVJ60" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://youtu.be/_iZnFPXVJ60</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li>John’s new book – <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Father-Effect-Hope-Healing-Absence/dp/1478976861/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1506549255&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=the+father+effect" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Father Effect</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Masculine-Soul-Restoration-Manhood/dp/0849944384/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1507495443&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=healing+the+masculine+soul+by+gordon+dalbey" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Healing the Masculine Soul</a> by Gordon Dalbey</li> <li>Father’s online community <a href="http://www.encouragingdads.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">EncouragingDads.com</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.ewtn.com/library/MARY/MARGMARY.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin 1690 </a></li> <li><a href="https://insideewtn.wordpress.com/2016/12/01/the-father-effect-a-documentary-that-just-might-change-your-life/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Inside EWTN</a> article on The Father Effect</li> <li>EWTN Episode of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ed9AoubH6lc" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Take 2 with Jerry and Debbie</a> Interview with John Finch</li> </ul> Call to Action –  How can we support our husbands and other men in our lives in their roles as a father and also in their role as a son. First, go watch the YouTube video of the short film.  Affirm our spouses, sons, or any other man in our life suffering through a father wound.  Also for those not married or women who feel they are wounded, go watch the film and ask the Lord to reveal to them any father wound that they may be carrying themselves. We do this so that God may start a mighty work of healing and restoration in our lives. Scripture –   “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never fail you nor forsake you.” 6 Hence we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid; what can man do to me?” – Hebrews 13: 5-6 Saint Quote – “Sometimes the only way the good Lord can get into some hearts is to break them.” –Archbishop Fulton Sheen

Episode 23: The Father Effect with John Finch

In-law jokes and in-law bashing seems to be en vogue among the married population. When Megan and Becky were asked to do an interview by best-selling author and speaker, Carrie Gress, about the role of in-laws in our lives, we realized how much this topic is not covered in the media and decided to do an extra podcast on the topic. With the holidays coming and more time with family, the topic seems even more timely. You can read the original article here and then listen to us expound on the interview and share more of our hearts on the topic. Please consider supporting our Podcast ***Disclaimer – there are some family dynamics that do absolutely require safe boundaries and that may include distance and limited time together. We are not professionals and are not addressing these types of situations

In-law jokes and in-law bashing seems to be en vogue among the married population. When Megan and Becky were asked to do an interview by best-selling author and speaker, <a href="http://www.carriegress.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Carrie Gress</a>, about the role of in-laws in our lives, we realized how much this topic is not covered in the media and decided to do an extra podcast on the topic. With the holidays coming and more time with family, the topic seems even more timely. You can read the original article <a href="https://aleteia.org/author/carrie-gress-phd/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> and then listen to us expound on the interview and share more of our hearts on the topic. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast ***Disclaimer – there are some family dynamics that do absolutely require safe boundaries and that may include distance and limited time together. We are not professionals and are not addressing these types of situations

Special Episode: In-Laws

Megan Hjelmstad

HAPPY EASTER FRIENDS!  “See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” -1John 3:1a Listener: “Hi! I just started listening to your podcast and am so excited to listen thru them all! I was wondering if you could have an episode about what it means to be a “daughter of God” or “child of God” and how you know that and recognize that yourself. This topic of defining myself and my value with just being a “child of God” – not my work, my mothering, but just as a child of God – has come up lately for me and I just really don’t know what that means and how to get started with growing in that. I think this would be an awesome topic for your podcast and would be eager to hear your thoughts and guidance on this. Thanks so much!!!!” Our beautiful guest, Megan Hjelmstad, agrees with us and our listener that this understanding of who we are as children of God can be a tough truth to understand. Knowing that Baptism make us God’s children; receiving an unrevokable adoption; this vital point is the foundation. Once we accept this truth, how do we truly live like a daughter of God? This is not about being a perfect child, but about pursuing and being pursued by the love of the Father. May we all be blessed with a more love filled and secure walk with God the Father so that we might go out and preach the Good News to others. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:   Megan Hjelmstad writes from the suburbs of Denver, Colorado, where she’s a wife and mom 24/7 and an Army Reservist in her “spare” time. Megan shares her uncontainable love for faith and the written word as a writer and speaker for Blessed is She, and feels especially called to encourage women in the areas of suffering, fertility issues, self-worth, and discernment. When not writing, Megan is happily indulging her hobbies as a bibliophile, tea drinker, sleep lover, and avid admirer of Colorado’s great outdoors. Aside from Blessed is She, you can find her writing in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Radiant Magazine, or on her personal blog, www.positivelyimperfect.com. Connect more with Megan through her email, megan@positivelyimperfect.com.   Show Notes:  Reject the lies and stand on Truth as the Scriptures exhort us in Phillipians 4: 8-9:  “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.” CCC 270 God is the Father Almighty, whose fatherhood and power shed light on one another: God reveals his fatherly omnipotence by the way he takes care of our needs; by the filial adoption that he gives us (“I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty”):109 finally by his infinite mercy, for he displays his power at its height by freely forgiving sins. 21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers subject to him.” 1Peter 3:21-22 “Therefore come out from them, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch nothing unclean; then I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”  -2 Cor 6:17-18    Call to Action –  Open yourself to the love of The Father. Ask Him to show you how to know that Truth even more intimately. Read the Scriptures listed and mentioned during the podcast and really meditate upon them daily, asking God to give you the Graces He has in store for you. Accept your inheritance and then share the Good News with others. Scripture –  “15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 it is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” – Romans 8:15-16 Saint Quote –  “The glory of God is man fully alive”- St. Irenaeus

HAPPY EASTER FRIENDS!  “See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.” -1John 3:1a Listener: “Hi! I just started listening to your podcast and am so excited to listen thru them all! I was wondering if you could have an episode about what it means to be a “daughter of God” or “child of God” and how you know that and recognize that yourself. This topic of defining myself and my value with just being a “child of God” – not my work, my mothering, but just as a child of God – has come up lately for me and I just really don’t know what that means and how to get started with growing in that. I think this would be an awesome topic for your podcast and would be eager to hear your thoughts and guidance on this. Thanks so much!!!!” Our beautiful guest, Megan Hjelmstad, agrees with us and our listener that this understanding of who we are as children of God can be a tough truth to understand. Knowing that Baptism make us God’s children; receiving an unrevokable adoption; this vital point is the foundation. Once we accept this truth, how do we truly live like a daughter of God? This is not about being a perfect child, but about pursuing and being pursued by the love of the Father. May we all be blessed with a more love filled and secure walk with God the Father so that we might go out and preach the Good News to others. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Megan Hjelmstad writes from the suburbs of Denver, Colorado, where she’s a wife and mom 24/7 and an Army Reservist in her “spare” time. Megan shares her uncontainable love for faith and the written word as a writer and speaker for Blessed is She, and feels especially called to encourage women in the areas of suffering, fertility issues, self-worth, and discernment. When not writing, Megan is happily indulging her hobbies as a bibliophile, tea drinker, sleep lover, and avid admirer of Colorado’s great outdoors. Aside from Blessed is She, you can find her writing in Chicken Soup for the Soul, Radiant Magazine, or on her personal blog, <a href="http://www.positivelyimperfect.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.positivelyimperfect.com</a>. Connect more with Megan through her email, <a href="mailto:megan@positivelyimperfect.com" rel="noopener">megan@positivelyimperfect.com</a>. Show Notes: <ul> <li>Reject the lies and stand on Truth as the Scriptures exhort us in Phillipians 4: 8-9:  “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.”</li> <li><a>CCC 270</a> God is the Father Almighty, whose fatherhood and power shed light on one another: God reveals his fatherly omnipotence by the way he takes care of our needs; by the filial adoption that he gives us (“I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty”):109 finally by his infinite mercy, for he displays his power at its height by freely forgiving sins.</li> <li>21 Baptism, which corresponds to this, now saves you, not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a clear conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ, 22 who has gone into heaven and is at the right hand of God, with angels, authorities, and powers subject to him.” 1Peter 3:21-22</li> <li>“Therefore come out from them, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch nothing unclean; then I will welcome you, 18 and I will be a father to you, and you shall be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”  -2 Cor 6:17-18</li> </ul> Call to Action –  Open yourself to the love of The Father. Ask Him to show you how to know that Truth even more intimately. Read the Scriptures listed and mentioned during the podcast and really meditate upon them daily, asking God to give you the Graces He has in store for you. Accept your inheritance and then share the Good News with others. Scripture –  “15 For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” 16 it is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” – Romans 8:15-16 Saint Quote –  “The glory of God is man fully alive”- St. Irenaeus

Episode 41: Our Inheritance as a Daughter of God with Megan Hjelmstad

This sin of objectification is truly hurting us all, men and women alike. Women have been taught they can use their body to manipulate others and men have been sold the lie that they are just naturally lustful and are hopeless to change. But, the Christ – centered, good news message St. John Paul II delivered during his Wednesday addresses tells us something very different. In Part 2 of our conversation with Christopher West, we go deeper into the meaning of Theology of the Body and how “we must rediscover the lost fullness of our humanity and long to regain it.” (JPII) Part 2 of 2 – Make sure you start with  Part 1 (last week) for the beginning of the story. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest: Christopher West is a proud husband and father of five. His global lecturing, best-selling books and multiple audio and video programs have made him the world’s most recognized teacher of John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” – a bold, biblical vision of love and sexuality that takes us to the “cor” of what it means to be human. As founder and president of The Cor Project, Christopher leads an international outreach devoted to spreading this liberating teaching and empowering others to learn, live, and share it. His work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and countless Catholic and Evangelical media outlets. Beyond his work as a popularizer of the Theology of the Body, Christopher has been teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on the subject since the late 1990s, having served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha, and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Melbourne, Australia. In 2004, he helped establish the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia, Pa., and serves today as Senior Lecturer of Theology and Christian Anthropology. His weeklong courses there continue to draw students from around the world. Among Christopher’s best-selling books are Theology of the Body for Beginners, Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage, At the Heart of the Gospel, Fill These Hearts and Pope Francis To Go: Bite-Sized Morsels from The Joy of the Gospel. His latest release is a free eBook Theology of the Body at the Movies, which can be downloaded at corproject.com/movies. You can stay in touch with Christopher at corproject.com and by following Christopher West (cwestofficial) on Facebook and Twitter (@cwestTOB) and on his new YouTube Channel: The Cor Project. You can also learn more about becoming a Cor Member and the many exclusive benefits you receive at cormembership.com. Show Notes:  The Cry of the Heart Video by Christopher West Registration is open for Christopher’s TOB Pilgrimage to Italy. Click here for details. Make sure you check out Christopher’s new program for Made for More Find all of Christopher’s  many books on Amazon.com Love and Responsibility by John Paul ii  Beyond the Birds and the Bees by Gregory and Lisa Popcak  The Truth and Meaning of Sexuality by the Pontifical Council of the Family Beyond the Talk – Educating Our Children About Sexuality by Christopher West  Healing the Reformation’s Wounds  with the Theology of the Body by Christopher West Matt Fradd Podcast with Christoper West Episode 56 Thriving in the Trenches Podcast  Episode on Modesty with Susan Husband   Call to Action –  Let us rebuke and reject the lie that our bodies are bad. For some this may be very difficult to do but it is only in this light that we can truly give Jesus our heart so that we might be healed. Scripture –  8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5: 8 Quote –  “What really matters in life is that we are loved by Christ and that we love Him in return. In comparison to the love of Jesus everything else is secondary. And without the love of Jesus everything is useless.” St. John Paul II “The deepest desire of every human heart is to see another and be seen by that other’s loving look .” – St. Augustine

This sin of objectification is truly hurting us all, men and women alike. Women have been taught they can use their body to manipulate others and men have been sold the lie that they are just naturally lustful and are hopeless to change. But, the Christ – centered, good news message St. John Paul II delivered during his Wednesday addresses tells us something very different. In Part 2 of our conversation with Christopher West, we go deeper into the meaning of Theology of the Body and how “we must rediscover the lost fullness of our humanity and long to regain it.” (JPII) Part 2 of 2 – Make sure you start with <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-36-christopher-west-part-1-cor-gospel/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Part 1</a> (last week) for the beginning of the story. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Christopher West is a proud husband and father of five. His global lecturing, best-selling books and multiple audio and video programs have made him the world’s most recognized teacher of John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body” – a bold, biblical vision of love and sexuality that takes us to the “cor” of what it means to be human. As founder and president of The Cor Project, Christopher leads an international outreach devoted to spreading this liberating teaching and empowering others to learn, live, and share it. His work has been featured in The New York Times, on ABC News, Fox News, MSNBC, and countless Catholic and Evangelical media outlets. Beyond his work as a popularizer of the Theology of the Body, Christopher has been teaching graduate and undergraduate courses on the subject since the late 1990s, having served on the faculties of St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver, the Institute for Priestly Formation in Omaha, and as a visiting professor of the John Paul II Institute in Melbourne, Australia. In 2004, he helped establish the Theology of the Body Institute near Philadelphia, Pa., and serves today as Senior Lecturer of Theology and Christian Anthropology. His weeklong courses there continue to draw students from around the world. Among Christopher’s best-selling books are Theology of the Body for Beginners, Good News About Sex &amp; Marriage, At the Heart of the Gospel, Fill These Hearts and Pope Francis To Go: Bite-Sized Morsels from The Joy of the Gospel. His latest release is a free eBook Theology of the Body at the Movies, which can be downloaded at <a href="http://corproject.com/movies" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">corproject.com/movies</a>. You can stay in touch with Christopher at <a href="http://corproject.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">corproject.com</a> and by following Christopher West (cwestofficial) on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cwestofficial/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/cwestTOB" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> (@cwestTOB) and on his new <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCleUptk8l6KEuJpVOWCYJ-w" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube Channel: The Cor Project</a>. You can also learn more about becoming a Cor Member and the many exclusive benefits you receive at <a href="http://cormembership.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">cormembership.com</a>. Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4QWSiAvBgs&amp;t=2s" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Cry of the Heart</a> Video by Christopher West</li> <li>Registration is open for Christopher’s TOB Pilgrimage to Italy. Click <a href="http://corproject.com/italy/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a> for details.</li> <li>Make sure you check out Christopher’s new program for <a href="http://corproject.com/madeformore/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Made for More</a></li> <li>Find all of Christopher’s <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Christopher-West/e/B001K8H50E/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1518104455&amp;sr=8-2-ent" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> many books on Amazon.com</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ignatius.com/Love-and-Responsibility-P1550.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Love and Responsibility</a> by John Paul ii</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Birds-Bees-Raising-Sexually/dp/1935940155/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1518845182&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=beyond+the+birds+and+the+bees+by+gregory+popcak" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Beyond the Birds and the Bees</a> by Gregory and Lisa Popcak</li> <li><a href="http://www.vatican.va/roman_curia/pontifical_councils/family/documents/rc_pc_family_doc_08121995_human-sexuality_en.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> The Truth and Meaning of Sexuality</a> by the Pontifical Council of the Family</li> <li>Beyond the Talk – Educating Our Children About Sexuality by Christopher West</li> <li><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/healing-the-reformations-wounds-with-the-theology-of-the-body" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Healing the Reformation’s Wounds</a> <a href="http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/healing-the-reformations-wounds-with-the-theology-of-the-body" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> with the Theology of the Body by Christopher West</a></li> <li>Matt Fradd Podcast with Christoper West <a href="http://www.podbean.com/media/share/dir-k3x47-2b8ef9d" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Episode 56</a></li> <li>Thriving in the Trenches Podcast <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-13-modesty-act-charity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode on Modesty</a> with Susan Husband</li> </ul> Call to Action –  Let us rebuke and reject the lie that our bodies are bad. For some this may be very difficult to do but it is only in this light that we can truly give Jesus our heart so that we might be healed. Scripture –  8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5: 8 Quote –  “What really matters in life is that we are loved by Christ and that we love Him in return. In comparison to the love of Jesus everything else is secondary. And without the love of Jesus everything is useless.” St. John Paul II “The deepest desire of every human heart is to see another and be seen by that other’s loving look .” – St. Augustine

Episode 37: Christopher West – Part 2

“Compassion does not kill, compassion suffers alongside or along with.” -Trent Horn On this installment of Thriving in the Trenches, we make some fun announcements to go along with a very informative and helpful conversation with Catholic Answers apologist, Trent Horn. Have you ever shied away from trying to defend your pro-life position because you were just not comfortable doing so? As important as this issue is in today’s culture, we have an opportunity to grow in our knowledge and how to use logical questions to simply “put a rock in someone’s shoe” regarding their standpoint on this important moral issue.   Please consider supporting our Podcast This week’s episode is sponsored by Catholic T-Shirt Club, a subscription service in which each month features a different Catholic theme based on Liturgical events or Saint Feasts. Their Exclusive Catholic T-shirts are paired with unique Sacramentals and reflections so you can Evangelize just by wearing and sharing these gifts!Each box is so packed with awesomeness, you can keep some, and share some things with others! Share the Love, Share the Gospel! Shop or Subscribe Here.    Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary use T-shirts 👊 Experience your faith in a new way and evangelize with Catholic Tshirts! Click here to purchase your Exclusive pro-life T-shirt from Catholic T-shirt Club.  Podcast Guest:  After his conversion to the Catholic Faith, Trent Horn earned a master’s degree in theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville, a master’s degree in philosophy from Holy Apostles College, and is pursuing a master’s degree in bioethics from the University of Mary. As a staff apologist for Catholic Answers, he specializes in teaching Catholics to graciously and persuasively engage those who disagree with them. Trent models that approach each week on the radio program Catholic Answers Live, where he dialogues with atheists, pro-choice advocates, and other non-Catholic callers. Trent is also an adjunct professor of apologetics at Holy Apostles College and the author of five books, including Answering Atheism, The Case for Catholicism, and Why We’re Catholic: Our Reasons for Faith, Hope, and Love.   Show Notes:  You can find all of Trent Horn’s books  here on his Amazon page, including the book and DVD mentioned in this week’s podcast episode, Persuasively Pro-Life  Common Ground without Compromise by Stephen Wagner is a great resource for both sides of the debate, this book will help you develop your view of abortion or advocate for your position within the context of friendly dialogue. Recommended by Trent Horn  Tactics by Gregory Koukl is another book recommended by Trent on learning ways to have positive interactions with people of a different belief than you. Call to Action –  Pray for the grace of patience and temperance while practicing gracious evangelization. Take the time to read or listen to some Pro-Life apologetics so that you can better form and prepare yourself to enter into these important conversations when God is asking you to do so. Scripture –  “11 And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipment of the saints, for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily growth and upbuilds itself in love.“ – Ephesians 4:11-16 Saint Quote –  “Life is the most beautiful gift of God” – St. Mother Teresa

“Compassion does not kill, compassion suffers alongside or along with.” -Trent Horn On this installment of Thriving in the Trenches, we make some fun announcements to go along with a very informative and helpful conversation with Catholic Answers apologist, Trent Horn. Have you ever shied away from trying to defend your pro-life position because you were just not comfortable doing so? As important as this issue is in today’s culture, we have an opportunity to grow in our knowledge and how to use logical questions to simply “put a rock in someone’s shoe” regarding their standpoint on this important moral issue.  <a href="https://catholictshirtclub.com/ref/thrivinginthetrenches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a> Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast This week’s episode is sponsored by Catholic T-Shirt Club, a subscription service in which each month features a different Catholic theme based on Liturgical events or Saint Feasts. Their Exclusive Catholic T-shirts are paired with unique Sacramentals and reflections so you can Evangelize just by wearing and sharing these gifts!Each box is so packed with awesomeness, you can keep some, and share some things with others! Share the Love, Share the Gospel! <a href="https://catholictshirtclub.com/ref/thrivinginthetrenches" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Shop or Subscribe Here.</a> Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary use T-shirts 👊 Experience your faith in a new way and evangelize with Catholic Tshirts! Click <a href="https://catholictshirtclub.com/products/prolife" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here to purchase</a> your Exclusive pro-life T-shirt from Catholic T-shirt Club.  Podcast Guest: After his conversion to the Catholic Faith, Trent Horn earned a master’s degree in theology from Franciscan University of Steubenville, a master’s degree in philosophy from Holy Apostles College, and is pursuing a master’s degree in bioethics from the University of Mary. As a staff apologist for Catholic Answers, he specializes in teaching Catholics to graciously and persuasively engage those who disagree with them. Trent models that approach each week on the radio program Catholic Answers Live, where he dialogues with atheists, pro-choice advocates, and other non-Catholic callers. Trent is also an adjunct professor of apologetics at Holy Apostles College and the author of five books, including Answering Atheism, The Case for Catholicism, and Why We’re Catholic: Our Reasons for Faith, Hope, and Love. Show Notes: <ul> <li>You can find all of Trent Horn’s books <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/?ie=UTF8&amp;keywords=trent+horn+books&amp;tag=googhydr-20&amp;index=aps&amp;hvadid=241916543951&amp;hvpos=1t1&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvrand=36141517873004451&amp;hvpone=&amp;hvptwo=&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvdvcmdl=&amp;hvlocint=&amp;hvlocphy=9026054&amp;hvtargid=aud-395862694963:kwd-377880353436&amp;ref=pd_sl_2ykjx7ba78_e" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> here on his Amazon page</a>, including the book and DVD mentioned in this week’s podcast episode, Persuasively Pro-Life</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Common-Ground-Without-Compromise-Stephen/dp/1930836198" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Common Ground without Compromise</a> by Stephen Wagner is a great resource for both sides of the debate, this book will help you develop your view of abortion or advocate for your position within the context of friendly dialogue. Recommended by Trent Horn</li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tactics-Game-Discussing-Christian-Convictions/dp/0310282926/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1516570090&amp;sr=1-1&amp;keywords=tactics" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Tactics</a> by Gregory Koukl is another book recommended by Trent on learning ways to have positive interactions with people of a different belief than you.</li> </ul>Call to Action –  Pray for the grace of patience and temperance while practicing gracious evangelization. Take the time to read or listen to some Pro-Life apologetics so that you can better form and prepare yourself to enter into these important conversations when God is asking you to do so. Scripture –  “11 And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipment of the saints, for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; 14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the cunning of men, by their craftiness in deceitful wiles. 15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16 from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every joint with which it is supplied, when each part is working properly, makes bodily growth and upbuilds itself in love.“ – Ephesians 4:11-16 Saint Quote –  “Life is the most beautiful gift of God” – St. Mother Teresa

Episode 33: Graciously Defending Life

Candice Ruttner-Duryear

This is our final episode of peeling back the onion of the father wound. If you’ve listened to the previous episodes, a father wound can really relate to any wound from many different types of trauma. Since this is the Lead the Conversation piece of our podcast series, this is where we address questions and comments from our treasured listeners. And because neither Megan nor Becky are licensed professionals, they decided to bring in a little bit of back-up. Well, alot of back-up. Candice Ruttner-Duryea is a licensed marriage and family therapist/psychologist specializing in trauma care. She has done an amazing job partnering with Sonja Corbitt and walking through the science behind what Sonja shares in her Healing the Father Wound series. From denial to playing the victim, we get down to the nitty gritty this week with Candice. Please make sure you watch the youTube videos in the show notes along with catching Sonja’s series on the father wound. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:  Candice Ruttner-Duryea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Candice offers therapy for individuals, couples and families at her private practice in San Diego, California. With over 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist and as a graduate of Loma Linda University specializing in Eating Disorders, PTSD, Trauma, and Children, she is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Candice offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each client based on their needs. She provides the support and practical feedback needed to help clients effectively address personal challenges. Candice offers a wide range of emotional and behavioral therapy services that span from depression and grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling, and more. She is dedicated to help each client attain the personal growth they are striving for and will work diligently until that is accomplished. Candice is married and has 3 beautiful children. Show Notes:  Candice shares in a short you-Tube video some science about Healing the Father Wound and why self medicating will never do the trick. Candice’s next YouTube video is about Attachment Trauma vs Single Incident Trauma. Peace of Soul by Fulton Sheen  Episode 23 , Father Effect with John Finch  Episode 24, Healing the Father Wound with Sonja Corbitt Bible Study Evangelista’s Series on Healing the Father Wound 

This is our final episode of peeling back the onion of the father wound. If you’ve listened to the previous episodes, a father wound can really relate to any wound from many different types of trauma. Since this is the Lead the Conversation piece of our podcast series, this is where we address questions and comments from our treasured listeners. And because neither Megan nor Becky are licensed professionals, they decided to bring in a little bit of back-up. Well, alot of back-up. Candice Ruttner-Duryea is a licensed marriage and family therapist/psychologist specializing in trauma care. She has done an amazing job partnering with Sonja Corbitt and walking through the science behind what Sonja shares in her Healing the Father Wound series. From denial to playing the victim, we get down to the nitty gritty this week with Candice. Please make sure you watch the youTube videos in the show notes along with catching <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/abba-father/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sonja’s series on the father wound.</a> Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: Candice Ruttner-Duryea is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Candice offers therapy for individuals, couples and families at her private practice in San Diego, California. With over 15 years of experience as a marriage and family therapist and as a graduate of Loma Linda University specializing in Eating Disorders, PTSD, Trauma, and Children, she is currently serving as private practitioner working with a broad spectrum of clients. Candice offers a highly personalized approach tailored to each client based on their needs. She provides the support and practical feedback needed to help clients effectively address personal challenges. Candice offers a wide range of emotional and behavioral therapy services that span from depression and grief counseling, parenting support, couples counseling, and more. She is dedicated to help each client attain the personal growth they are striving for and will work diligently until that is accomplished. Candice is married and has 3 beautiful children. Show Notes: <ul> <li>Candice shares in a short <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xZ7P03T9-_A" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">you-Tube video some science about Healing the Father Wound</a> and why self medicating will never do the trick.</li> <li>Candice’s next YouTube video is about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b6_6FAfjNMg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Attachment Trauma vs Single Incident Trauma.</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Peace-Soul-Fulton-J-Sheen/dp/0892439157" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peace of Soul</a> by Fulton Sheen</li> <li><a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-23-father-effect-john-finch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 23</a> , Father Effect with John Finch</li> <li><a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-24-healing-father-wound-sonja-corbitt/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Episode 24</a>, Healing the Father Wound with Sonja Corbitt</li> <li>Bible Study Evangelista’s <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/lovetheword/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Series on Healing the Father Wound</a></li> </ul>

Episode 25: LTC – Healing the Father Wound with Candice Ruttner-Duryear

In today’s episode, Megan and Becky continue to have the conversation about what it looks like to encourage one another but also what it actually feels like to be encouraged. They both share with the listeners how the Lord used other women to encourage each of them individually this past week. The power of this message has been well received and many other women are signing on to this movement of #womenencouragingwomen. By nature of the word encouragement, Megan and Becky also wanted to extend this conversation to apply to men. Exploring how we can affirm the men in our lives and start more proactively lift up masculine vocations. Asking the important question of how can we rightly encourage our spouse, sons, brothers, fathers, and even our parish priests. Please consider supporting our Podcast   Show Notes:   Blog post by Michele Quigley on how the culture has stopped trusting in God.  Dear Adam, Eve is Not an Object – Video done by Petersboat.net: Becky mentioned this in reference to the importance of bonding emotionally with your spouse  Call to Action – Ask God for the grace of humility to admire someone else’s beauty and achievement without questioning your own.  Scripture –  “9 For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us so that whether we wake or sleep we might live with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thess 5: 9-11 Saint Quote –  “Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things are passing away: God never changes. Patience obtains all things Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices” – St. Teresa of Avila

In today’s episode, Megan and Becky continue to have the conversation about what it looks like to encourage one another but also what it actually feels like to be encouraged. They both share with the listeners how the Lord used other women to encourage each of them individually this past week. The power of this message has been well received and many other women are signing on to this movement of #womenencouragingwomen. By nature of the word encouragement, Megan and Becky also wanted to extend this conversation to apply to men. Exploring how we can affirm the men in our lives and start more proactively lift up masculine vocations. Asking the important question of how can we rightly encourage our spouse, sons, brothers, fathers, and even our parish priests. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="https://michelequigley.com/the-secret-to-my-success-and-other-thoughts/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Blog post by Michele Quigley</a> on how the culture has stopped trusting in God.</li> <li><a href="http://%3Ciframe%20src=" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Dear Adam, Eve is Not an Object</a> – Video done by <a href="http://Petersboat.net" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Petersboat.net</a>: Becky mentioned this in reference to the importance of bonding emotionally with your spouse</li> </ul> Call to Action – Ask God for the grace of humility to admire someone else’s beauty and achievement without questioning your own.  Scripture –  “9 For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, 10 who died for us so that whether we wake or sleep we might live with him. 11 Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” – 1 Thess 5: 9-11 Saint Quote –  “Let nothing disturb you, Let nothing frighten you, All things are passing away: God never changes. Patience obtains all things Whoever has God lacks nothing; God alone suffices” – St. Teresa of Avila

Episode 32: Women Encouraging Others

Sarah Christmyer

Have you ever heard of this term, Lectio Divina, and wondered what in the world it meant? Have you ever thought you’d like to learn how to get into the Scriptures in a deeper way? God speaks to us through the Word of God and we are richly blessed in this country to have the freedom to have Bibles, read Bibles, live out our Catholic Christian faith, and to come together for times to worship and praise our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a Catholic, we are steeped in the traditions of proper interpretations of God’s Word and we have the Graces of the Church to help us in our journey. With Lent just around the corner, we thought it was the best time to finally get Sarah Christmyer on our podcast to help us learn how to go deeper into relationship with our Father through the written Word. Please consider supporting our Podcast Our Guest:   Sarah Christmyer is a Catholic author, Bible teacher, and speaker with a special love for lectio divina and journaling as ways to draw close to Christ in Scripture. She co-developed with Jeff Cavins The Great Adventure Catholic Bible study program, serving as founding editor. Sarah is the author of two guided prayer journals, Create in me a Clean Heart: Ten Minutes a Day in the Penitential Psalms and Lord,  Make Haste to Help Me: Seven Psalms to Pray in Time of Need. She  is author or co-author of a number of Bible studies for Ascension Press and Emmaus Road Publishing. She is a contributing author of Walk in Her Sandals: Experiencing Christ’s Passion Through the Eyes of Women, published by Ave Maria Press. Sarah has a Masters degree in Theology from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia, where she is an adjunct faculty member. She is a member of the Board of Malvern Retreat House in Malvern, PA. She blogs at www.ComeIntotheWord.com and for Women in the New Evangelization (WINE). You can find Sarah at:  www.ComeIntotheWord.com  https://www.facebook.com/comeintotheword/ Instagram: @comeintotheword Twitter: @SChristmyer Show Notes:  During Lent, Sarah is hosting a group discussion of the Penitential Psalms on Facebook so people can share their insights with others. Request to join by liking Sarah’s Author Page linked above. Then click on “Groups” in the left-hand menu. Also, you can sign up for her blog at www.comeintotheword.com and you will receive free instructions related to things she is talking about:   – Planting the Word in Your Heart (lectio divina steps and personal journaling format)  – How to Pray with the Penitential Psalms      Call to Action –  Find the Bible that you will use as your own where you can underline and highlight the Scriptures that God is speaking blessing into your life with. Set up a special place that you can find quiet and commune with God as you meditate with the Penitential Psalms this Lent. If you are on Facebook, sign up for the group so we can all dig in deeper together. Ask the Lord to meet you in His Word daily and to give you the Grace to hear Him. Scripture –  “14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” – Hebrews 4:14-16 Saint Quote –  “Great is the profit to be derived from the sacred Scriptures and their assistance is sufficient for every need. Paul was pointing this out when he said, ‘Whatever things have been written have been written for our instruction, upon whom the final age of the world has come, that through the patience and the consolation afforded by the Scriptures we may have hope.’ (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11) The divine words, indeed, are a treasury containing every sort of remedy, so that, whether one needs to put down senseless pride, or to quench the fire of concupiscence or to trample on the love of riches, or to despise pain, or to cultivate cheerfulness and acquire patience – in them one may find in abundance the means to do so.”  (Hom. 37  On John.)” – St. John Chrysostom

Have you ever heard of this term, Lectio Divina, and wondered what in the world it meant? Have you ever thought you’d like to learn how to get into the Scriptures in a deeper way? God speaks to us through the Word of God and we are richly blessed in this country to have the freedom to have Bibles, read Bibles, live out our Catholic Christian faith, and to come together for times to worship and praise our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a Catholic, we are steeped in the traditions of proper interpretations of God’s Word and we have the Graces of the Church to help us in our journey. With Lent just around the corner, we thought it was the best time to finally get Sarah Christmyer on our podcast to help us learn how to go deeper into relationship with our Father through the written Word. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Our Guest: <a href="http://www.comeintotheword.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"></a>Sarah Christmyer is a Catholic author, Bible teacher, and speaker with a special love for lectio divina and journaling as ways to draw close to Christ in Scripture. She co-developed with Jeff Cavins The Great Adventure Catholic Bible study program, serving as founding editor. Sarah is the author of two guided prayer journals, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Create-Me-Clean-Heart-Penitential/dp/1523494417/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1516987448&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=create+in+me+a+clean+heart+sarah+christmyer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Create in me a Clean Heart: Ten Minutes a Day in the Penitential Psalms and </a>Lord, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&amp;field-keywords=make+haste+to+help+me+sarah+christmyer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Make Haste to Help Me: Seven Psalms to Pray in Time of Need</a>. She  is author or co-author of a number of Bible studies for Ascension Press and Emmaus Road Publishing. She is a contributing author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&amp;field-keywords=walk+in+her+sandals+sarah+christmyer&amp;rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3Awalk+in+her+sandals+sarah+christmyer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Walk in Her Sandals: Experiencing Christ’s Passion Through the Eyes of Women</a>, published by Ave Maria Press. Sarah has a Masters degree in Theology from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Philadelphia, where she is an adjunct faculty member. She is a member of the Board of Malvern Retreat House in Malvern, PA. She blogs at <a href="http://www.comeintotheword.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.ComeIntotheWord.com</a> and for Women in the New Evangelization (WINE). You can find Sarah at: <a href="http://www.comeintotheword.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> www.ComeIntotheWord.com</a> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/comeintotheword/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank"> https://www.facebook.com/comeintotheword/</a> Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/comeintotheword/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@comeintotheword</a> Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/schristmyer" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">@SChristmyer</a> Show Notes: <ul> <li>During Lent, Sarah is hosting a group discussion of the Penitential Psalms on Facebook so people can share their insights with others. Request to join by liking Sarah’s Author Page linked above. Then click on “Groups” in the left-hand menu.</li> <li>Also, you can sign up for her blog at <a href="http://www.comeintotheword.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.comeintotheword.com</a> and you will receive free instructions related to things she is talking about:</li> <li> <ul> <li>– Planting the Word in Your Heart (lectio divina steps and personal journaling format)</li> <li> – How to Pray with the Penitential Psalms </li> </ul> </li> </ul> Call to Action –  Find the Bible that you will use as your own where you can underline and highlight the Scriptures that God is speaking blessing into your life with. Set up a special place that you can find quiet and commune with God as you meditate with the Penitential Psalms this Lent. If you are on Facebook, sign up for the group so we can all dig in deeper together. Ask the Lord to meet you in His Word daily and to give you the Grace to hear Him. Scripture –  “14 Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. 15 For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning. 16 Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” – Hebrews 4:14-16 Saint Quote –  “Great is the profit to be derived from the sacred Scriptures and their assistance is sufficient for every need. Paul was pointing this out when he said, ‘Whatever things have been written have been written for our instruction, upon whom the final age of the world has come, that through the patience and the consolation afforded by the Scriptures we may have hope.’ (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11) The divine words, indeed, are a treasury containing every sort of remedy, so that, whether one needs to put down senseless pride, or to quench the fire of concupiscence or to trample on the love of riches, or to despise pain, or to cultivate cheerfulness and acquire patience – in them one may find in abundance the means to do so.”  (Hom. 37  On John.)” – St. John Chrysostom

Episode 34: Lenten Lectio Divina with Sarah Christmyer

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1Jn 1:9) This week Megan and Becky explore the beauty and necessity of the Sacrament of Healing we call, Confession. With a heavy emphasis on the Catechism, the gals discuss many of the reasons why we need the Sacrament while also sharing personal experiences and reader questions and comments.  Reconciliation seems be one of the most misunderstood and the least sought out Sacrament in the Church. Why? Are we being exhorted to go? Do we understand the great power of absolution and the Mercy and Grace that is poured out on us? Do you want to grow in holiness and reject sin? Then the confessional should be a regular stop in your journey. Please consider supporting our Podcast Show Notes:  “According to the Church’s command, “after having attained the age of discretion, each of the faithful is bound by an obligation faithfully to confess serious sins at least once a year.”56 Anyone who is aware of having committed a mortal sin must not receive Holy Communion, even if he experiences deep contrition, without having first received sacramental absolution, unless he has a grave reason for receiving Communion and there is no possibility of going to confession.57 Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time.58″ CCC 1457  “It is called the sacrament of conversion because it makes sacramentally present Jesus’ call to conversion, the first step in returning to the Father5 from whom one has strayed by sin. It is called the sacrament of Penance, since it consecrates the Christian sinner’s personal and ecclesial steps of conversion, penance, and satisfaction. CCC1423  It is called the sacrament of confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament. In a profound sense it is also a “confession” – acknowledgment and praise – of the holiness of God and of his mercy toward sinful man. CCC1424 It is called the sacrament of forgiveness, since by the priest’s sacramental absolution God grants the penitent “pardon and peace.”6 It is called the sacrament of Reconciliation, because it imparts to the sinner the love of God who reconciles: “Be reconciled to God.”7 He who lives by God’s merciful love is ready to respond to the Lord’s call: “Go; first be reconciled to your brother.”8CCC 1423 and 1424 “Confession to a priest is an essential part of the sacrament of Penance: “All mortal sins of which penitents after a diligent self-examination are conscious must be recounted by them in confession, even if they are most secret and have been committed against the last two precepts of the Decalogue; for these sins sometimes wound the soul more grievously and are more dangerous than those which are committed openly.”54 CCC 1456  When Christ’s faithful strive to confess all the sins that they can remember, they undoubtedly place all of them before the divine mercy for pardon. But those who fail to do so and knowingly withhold some, place nothing before the divine goodness for remission through the mediation of the priest, “for if the sick person is too ashamed to show his wound to the doctor, the medicine cannot heal what it does not know.”55 (Council of Trent)    An example of a Daily Examen by Ignatian Spirituality Laudate App for iPhone and Android – this app includes many awesome resources such as daily examen, examination of conscious for confession, an interactive Rosary, Daily Readings, the Liturgy of the Hours, the Roman Missal changes, and the NAB and Douay-Rheims versions of the Bible  Purple Leaflet by Catholic Leaflet Missal Company “14 Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; 15 and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.[c] 16 Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effects.”   Per the Ignatius Study Bible commentary, This command to confess to one another must be interpreted within the context of the anointing rite, where the elders (i.e. oriests) presumably hear the confession of the sick person before his sins are remitted through the sacrament. Jonah 3:1-10; Psalm 51: 3-4,12-13,18-19; Joel 2:12-13; Luke 11:29-32 (Readings referred to during podcast  from Wed 2/21) “And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. 2 And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” Matthew 9:1-2 (the paralytic was healed through the faith of his friends who took him to Jesus when he couldn’t take himself. A beautiful act of intercessory prayer)  Call to Action –  Let us encourage one another to make regular confession more regular and therefore gird ourselves with the Grace and Mercy of Jesus Christ. Ask God to help us grow in charity through the act of fasting for another in this ministry of healing we are being called to participate. Scripture –  “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”  How could they forgive sins if they were not confessed?  They could not.  This authority comes through the gift of the Holy Spirit which precedes it.” – John 20:21-23 Saint Quote –  St. Ambrose says of the two conversions that, in the Church, “there are water and tears: the water of Baptism and the tears of repentance.”

“If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1Jn 1:9) This week Megan and Becky explore the beauty and necessity of the Sacrament of Healing we call, Confession. With a heavy emphasis on the Catechism, the gals discuss many of the reasons why we need the Sacrament while also sharing personal experiences and reader questions and comments.  Reconciliation seems be one of the most misunderstood and the least sought out Sacrament in the Church. Why? Are we being exhorted to go? Do we understand the great power of absolution and the Mercy and Grace that is poured out on us? Do you want to grow in holiness and reject sin? Then the confessional should be a regular stop in your journey. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Show Notes: <ul> <li>“According to the Church’s command, “after having attained the age of discretion, each of the faithful is bound by an obligation faithfully to confess serious sins at least once a year.”56 Anyone who is aware of having committed a mortal sin must not receive Holy Communion, even if he experiences deep contrition, without having first received sacramental absolution, unless he has a grave reason for receiving Communion and there is no possibility of going to confession.57 Children must go to the sacrament of Penance before receiving Holy Communion for the first time.58″ <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c2a4.htm#VII" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CCC 1457 </a></li> <li>“It is called the sacrament of conversion because it makes sacramentally present Jesus’ call to conversion, the first step in returning to the Father5 from whom one has strayed by sin.</li> <li>It is called the sacrament of Penance, since it consecrates the Christian sinner’s personal and ecclesial steps of conversion, penance, and satisfaction. <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c2a4.htm#VII" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CCC1423</a><a></a></li> <li> It is called the sacrament of confession, since the disclosure or confession of sins to a priest is an essential element of this sacrament. In a profound sense it is also a “confession” – acknowledgment and praise – of the holiness of God and of his mercy toward sinful man. <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c2a4.htm#VII" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CCC1424</a></li> <li>It is called the sacrament of forgiveness, since by the priest’s sacramental absolution God grants the penitent “pardon and peace.”6</li> <li>It is called the sacrament of Reconciliation, because it imparts to the sinner the love of God who reconciles: “Be reconciled to God.”7 He who lives by God’s merciful love is ready to respond to the Lord’s call: “Go; first be reconciled to your brother.”8<a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c2a4.htm#VII" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CCC 1423 and 1424</a></li> <li>“Confession to a priest is an essential part of the sacrament of Penance: “All mortal sins of which penitents after a diligent self-examination are conscious must be recounted by them in confession, even if they are most secret and have been committed against the last two precepts of the Decalogue; for these sins sometimes wound the soul more grievously and are more dangerous than those which are committed openly.”54 <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p2s2c2a4.htm#VII" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">CCC 1456</a> When Christ’s faithful strive to confess all the sins that they can remember, they undoubtedly place all of them before the divine mercy for pardon. But those who fail to do so and knowingly withhold some, place nothing before the divine goodness for remission through the mediation of the priest, “for if the sick person is too ashamed to show his wound to the doctor, the medicine cannot heal what it does not know.”55 (Council of Trent)  </li> <li>An example of a Daily Examen by <a href="https://www.ignatianspirituality.com/ignatian-prayer/the-examen" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Ignatian Spirituality</a></li> <li><a href="https://catholicapps.com/laudate/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Laudate App</a> for iPhone and Android – this app includes many awesome resources such as daily examen, examination of conscious for confession, an interactive Rosary, Daily Readings, the Liturgy of the Hours, the Roman Missal changes, and the NAB and Douay-Rheims versions of the Bible</li> <li><a href="https://www.leafletonline.com/catalogsearch/result/?f=examination+of+conscious&amp;q=examination+of" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Purple Leaflet</a> by Catholic Leaflet Missal Company</li> <li>“14 Is any among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; 15 and the prayer of faith will save the sick man, and the Lord will raise him up; and if he has committed sins, he will be forgiven.[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=james+5&amp;version=RSVCE#fen-RSVCE-34527c" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">c</a>] 16 Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effects.”   Per the Ignatius Study Bible commentary, This command to confess to one another must be interpreted within the context of the anointing rite, where the elders (i.e. oriests) presumably hear the confession of the sick person before his sins are remitted through the sacrament.</li> <li>Jonah 3:1-10; Psalm 51: 3-4,12-13,18-19; Joel 2:12-13; Luke 11:29-32 (Readings referred to during podcast  from Wed 2/21)</li> <li>“And getting into a boat he crossed over and came to his own city. 2 And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” Matthew 9:1-2 (the paralytic was healed through the faith of his friends who took him to Jesus when he couldn’t take himself. A beautiful act of intercessory prayer)</li> </ul> Call to Action –  Let us encourage one another to make regular confession more regular and therefore gird ourselves with the Grace and Mercy of Jesus Christ. Ask God to help us grow in charity through the act of fasting for another in this ministry of healing we are being called to participate. Scripture –  “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”  How could they forgive sins if they were not confessed?  They could not.  This authority comes through the gift of the Holy Spirit which precedes it.” – John 20:21-23 Saint Quote –  St. Ambrose says of the two conversions that, in the Church, “there are water and tears: the water of Baptism and the tears of repentance.”

Episode 38: Confession and a Lenten Check In

We sure have been mulling over this word, meekness.  Have you?  For the most part, that virtue has been a bit of a challenge for us women to fully and freely accept and practice. On Episode 22 Megan and Becky recap some of the high points and some of the listener comments from our interview with Dr. Carrie Gress.  We hope you join us as we pull out and work though some of these topics like meekness and sweetness and more.      Show Notes:   If There is an AntiChrist what about an Antimary? “What, then, would an antimary movement look like, exactly? Well, these women would not value children. They would be bawdy, vulgar, and angry. They would rage against the idea of anything resembling humble obedience or self-sacrifice for others. They would be petulant, shallow, catty, and overly sensuous. They would also be self-absorbed, manipulative, gossipy, anxious, and ambitious. In short, it would be everything that Mary is not.” –Carrie Gress “The devil knows that all these marks of the antimary – rage, indignation, vulgarity, and pride – short circuit women’s greatest gifts: wisdom, prudence, patience, unflappable peace, intuition, and the capacity for a deep relationship with God. Instead he promises power, fame, fortune, respect, and sterile fleeting pleasures. And like Eve, women of the antimarian movement are still falling for his lies.” –Carrie Gress 

We sure have been mulling over this word, meekness.  Have you?  For the most part, that virtue has been a bit of a challenge for us women to fully and freely accept and practice. On Episode 22 Megan and Becky recap some of the high points and some of the listener comments from our interview with Dr. Carrie Gress.  We hope you join us as we pull out and work though some of these topics like meekness and sweetness and more.  Show Notes: <ul> <li><a href="http://www.ncregister.com/blog/cgress/if-there-is-an-antichrist-what-about-an-antimary" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> If There is an AntiChrist what about an Antimary?</a></li> <li>“What, then, would an antimary movement look like, exactly? Well, these women would not value children. They would be bawdy, vulgar, and angry. They would rage against the idea of anything resembling humble obedience or self-sacrifice for others. They would be petulant, shallow, catty, and overly sensuous. They would also be self-absorbed, manipulative, gossipy, anxious, and ambitious. In short, it would be everything that Mary is not.” –Carrie Gress</li> <li>“The devil knows that all these marks of the antimary – rage, indignation, vulgarity, and pride – short circuit women’s greatest gifts: wisdom, prudence, patience, unflappable peace, intuition, and the capacity for a deep relationship with God. Instead he promises power, fame, fortune, respect, and sterile fleeting pleasures. And like Eve, women of the antimarian movement are still falling for his lies.” –Carrie Gress</li> </ul>

Episode 22: LTC – The Marian Option

God loves us with a reckless love and He call us to be holy and to be perfect as the father in heaven is perfect. The commands are repeated in Scripture, old and new.  How do we balance all these Truths? “Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation;[a] the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation;” (2 Cor 5: 17-18a). Last week we shared about the Church’s teachings on confession and why this is such a beautiful and joful gift of healing, mercy, joy, and freedom. This week we wanted to be more clear about sin. Who doesn’t like to talk about sin, right? Admitting we have fallen short, though the Scriptures tell us in Romans 3 that ALL have fallen short of the glory of God, is a difficult act of humility. Calling a sin a sin, especially in today’s relativistic culture, is a very important key to growing in holiness and breaking free from the binds of the evil one. Original sin, actual sin, sanctifying grace versus actual grace… what does it all mean? Let’s get started. Please consider supporting our Podcast   Show Notes:  Becky referenced much of the  No. 2 Baltimore Catechism  This is an excellent resource for teaching your kids and inadvertantly yourself the faith in a more concise way. Reference Catechism is from Lesson 5, Lesson 6, and Lesson 9 Scripture References:  Ephesians 4: 17 and 24-25; Romans 6: 1-6 Heart of the Father – Unbound, A ministry of spiritual deliverance Podcast Episode on  Father Wound with John Finch Podcast Episode on  Healing the Father Wound with Sonja Corbitt Podcast Episode on self medicating our triggers and Healing the Father Wound with Candice Ruttner-Duryear  For Love and Marriage – Lighthouse Catholic Media CD with Johnette Benkovic Cory Asbury, Reckless Love – youTube video from song played in clips during this episode.  “This also do we believe, in accordance with the Catholic faith, that after grace received through baptism, all the baptized are able and ought, with the aid and co-operation of Christ, to fulfill all duties needful for salvation, provided they are willing to labor faithfully. But that some men have been predestined to evil by divine power, we not only do not believe, but if there be those who are willing to believe so evil a thing, we say to them with all abhorrence anathema. This also do we profess and believe to our soul’s health, that in every good work, it is not we who begin, and are afterward assisted by Divine mercy, but that God Himself, with no preceding merits on our part, first inspires within us faith and love.” Council of Orange, 531AD   Call to Action –  Take everything, even your failures, to the Lord and ask Him to redeem it ALL. Give it all back to Jesus and allow Him to heal you. Scripture –  “22 Put off your old nature which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on the new nature, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:22-24 Reference Saint Quote –  “Repentance is the returning from the unnatural into the natural state, from the devil to God, through discipline and effort.” – St. John Damascene

God loves us with a reckless love and He call us to be holy and to be perfect as the father in heaven is perfect. The commands are repeated in Scripture, old and new.  How do we balance all these Truths? “Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation;[<a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+5&amp;version=RSVCE#fen-RSVCE-33053a" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">a</a>] the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. 18 All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation;” (2 Cor 5: 17-18a). Last week we shared about the Church’s teachings on confession and why this is such a beautiful and joful gift of healing, mercy, joy, and freedom. This week we wanted to be more clear about sin. Who doesn’t like to talk about sin, right? Admitting we have fallen short, though the Scriptures tell us in Romans 3 that ALL have fallen short of the glory of God, is a difficult act of humility. Calling a sin a sin, especially in today’s relativistic culture, is a very important key to growing in holiness and breaking free from the binds of the evil one. Original sin, actual sin, sanctifying grace versus actual grace… what does it all mean? Let’s get started. Please consider <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/support-the-podcast/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">supporting</a> our Podcast Show Notes: <ul> <li>Becky referenced much of the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/New-Saint-Joseph-Baltimore-Catechism/dp/089942242X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1520103403&amp;sr=8-1&amp;keywords=no+2+baltimore+catechism" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> No. 2 Baltimore Catechism</a>  This is an excellent resource for teaching your kids and inadvertantly yourself the faith in a more concise way. Reference Catechism is from Lesson 5, Lesson 6, and Lesson 9</li> <li>Scripture References: </li> <li>Ephesians 4: 17 and 24-25; Romans 6: 1-6</li> <li>Heart of the Father – <a href="http://www.heartofthefather.com/about/unbound/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Unbound,</a> A ministry of spiritual deliverance</li> <li>Podcast Episode on <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-23-father-effect-john-finch/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Father Wound with John Finch</a></li> <li>Podcast Episode on <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-24-healing-father-wound-sonja-corbitt/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> Healing the Father Wound with Sonja Corbitt</a></li> <li>Podcast Episode on self medicating our triggers and <a href="http://thrivinginthetrenches.com/episodes/episode-25-ltc-healing-father-wound-candice-ruttner-duryea-lmft/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Healing the Father Wound with Candice Ruttner-Duryear</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.lighthousecatholicmedia.org/store/title/for-love-and-marriage" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"> For Love and Marriage</a> – Lighthouse Catholic Media CD with Johnette Benkovic</li> <li>Cory Asbury, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sc6SSHuZvQE" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Reckless Love – youTube video</a> from song played in clips during this episode.</li> <li> “This also do we believe, in accordance with the Catholic faith, that after grace received through baptism, all the baptized are able and ought, with the aid and co-operation of Christ, to fulfill all duties needful for salvation, provided they are willing to labor faithfully. But that some men have been predestined to evil by divine power, we not only do not believe, but if there be those who are willing to believe so evil a thing, we say to them with all abhorrence anathema. This also do we profess and believe to our soul’s health, that in every good work, it is not we who begin, and are afterward assisted by Divine mercy, but that God Himself, with no preceding merits on our part, first inspires within us faith and love.” Council of Orange, 531AD </li> </ul> Call to Action –  Take everything, even your failures, to the Lord and ask Him to redeem it ALL. Give it all back to Jesus and allow Him to heal you. Scripture –  “22 Put off your old nature which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful lusts, 23 and be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and put on the new nature, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” – Ephesians 4:22-24 Reference Saint Quote –  “Repentance is the returning from the unnatural into the natural state, from the devil to God, through discipline and effort.” – St. John Damascene

Episode 39: Sin

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