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Sally
Feb 2, 2021
Love these 3 beautiful women and the way they present truths of our Catholic faith
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S09 E09: This Present Paradise Part 1: Dwelling in the Spirit
41:02
In this episode, we begin a six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We discuss the sufferings in the early life of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity, the humbling moments of parenthood and surrendering your giftedness to be refined by God and used for his glory. We chat about the “little way” of recognizing the Trinity in our everyday lives and how often our woundedness and our glory lie side by side. We are excited to continue this journey with St. Elizabeth of the Trinity and you next week! Heather’s one thing - Heather’s Spotify Lenten Playlist Michelle’s one thing - Restoration House: Creating a Space that gives life and connection - Kennesha Buycks Sister Miriam’s one thing - Monica at Damascus Catholic Mission Campus Carmelite Examen mentioned by Michelle Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “May my life be a continual prayer, one long act of love. May nothing be able to distract me from you.” - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” - 1 Corinthians 3:16
This episode is sponsored by Corda Candles. CORDA brings the light of the saints to the domestic church. Each handcrafted candle has a custom scent blended in-house that is directly inspired by saints and the faith, such as Joan of Arc, Michael the Archangel, and Divine Mercy. And the candles are made with great ingredients, including CORDA's proprietary, all-natural coconut wax blend and phthalate-free fragrances. Explore all of CORDA's modern saint candles at www.cordacandles.com. CORDA is pleased to offer an Elizabeth of the Trinity candle in collaboration with the Abiding Together Podcast and benefiting Sister Miriam's order, the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity. Listeners can use code abide10 through 3/31 for 10% off your order excluding the St. Elizabeth of the Trinity candle, Cloistered Heart. Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast is reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer for Lent. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. |
Feb 22, 2021 |
S09 E07: An Invitation to God’s Mercy Part 2: An Interview with Fr. Josh Johnson
35:20
In this episode, we continue our conversation with Fr. Josh Johnson on the Sacrament of Confession and God’s enduring delight in His children. We discuss how to uncover what might be at the root of our sin and what longings or desires we may be seeking to fulfill when we are in these situations. We finish with a healing prayer led by Fr. Josh and an encouragement to encounter Jesus in confession for greater freedom and healing this Lent! You can find the Pocket Guide to Reconciliation at AscensionPress.com or Amazon.
Fr. Josh Johnson’s one thing - You are Welcome in This Place - Maverick City Music Fr. Josh Johnsons’s other one thing - Through and Through - Will Reagan Sister Miriam’s one thing - The gift of the priesthood Heather’s one thing - The Metanoia Series - Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR and 4pm media Michelle’s one thing - “O Ineffable Love, although in your light you saw all the evils that your creature would commit against your infinite goodness, you acted as if you did not see; rather, you kept your eye on the beauty of your creature with whom you fell in love, as if you were crazy and drunk with love, and through love you drew her out of yourself and gave her being.” - St. Catherine of Sienna Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: Even if you were to commit all the sins in the world, Jesus would repeat to you: “Many of your sins are forgiven because you have loved much.” -Padre Pio Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Surely You desire truth in the inmost being; You teach me wisdom in the inmost place. Purify me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” - Psalm 51:6 - 7 Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. If you don’t have your book yet - you can buy it via Amazon in a paperback or kindle version. This episode is sponsored by Ascension Press. New from Ascension, "The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" is a beautiful, prayerful book by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson. This small but powerful guide is the perfect size to slip into your pocket or purse, and will give you reflections, guidance, and an examination of conscience that you can bring with you to prepare for your sacramental encounter with God's mercy and forgiveness. Whether you have been away from Confession for a long time or you are looking for a fresh way to enliven your regular routine, The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation will help you encounter God's merciful love and forgiveness in new and beautiful ways. Get your copy at www.AscensionPress.com/Reconciliation. The book is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping February 19 and listeners will receive 15% off with code abide15. |
Feb 15, 2021 |
S09 E06: An Invitation to God’s Mercy Part 1: An Interview with Fr. Josh Johnson
34:15
In this episode we spend some time with one of our dearest friends, Fr. Josh Johnson, to discuss the invitation to God’s mercy as we prepare for the season of Lent. Fr. Josh shares his own personal stories of healing through the sacrament of confession, as well his heart behind his new book A Pocket Guide to Reconciliation. We discuss confession as a sacrament of healing and God’s heart to restore our relationship with Him rather than condemn or shame us. We will be back next week with part two of our conversation with Fr. Josh, and you can find the Pocket Guide to Reconciliation at AscensionPress.com or Amazon. Fr. Josh Johnson’s one thing - Make us one - Maverick City Music Come and Get your Love - Father Commercial Father Josh referenced Sister Miriam’s one thing - The students at Hillsdale College Heather’s one thing - Helena and Serra at Franciscan University Heather’s other one thing - Fresh Wind - Hillsong Michelle’s one thing - La La Lu - Christy Nockles from the Album Be Held: Lullabies for the Beloved Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “Today the Lord said to me, ‘Daughter, when you go to confession, to this fountain of My mercy, the Blood and Water which came forth from My Heart always flows down upon your soul and ennobles it. Every time you go to confession, immerse yourself entirely in My mercy, with great trust, so that I may pour the bounty of My grace upon your soul. When you approach the confessional, know this, that I Myself am waiting there for you. I am only hidden by the priest, but I Myself act in your soul. Here the misery of the soul meets the God of mercy. Tell souls that from this fount of mercy souls draw graces solely with the vessel of trust. If their trust is great, there is no limit to My generosity. The torrents of grace inundate humble souls. The proud remain always in poverty and misery, because My grace turns away from them to humble souls.’” - St. Faustina , The Diary of St. Faustina, 1602 Scripture for Lectio Divina: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just, and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - 1 John 1:9 Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement: The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. This episode is sponsored by Ascension Press. New from Ascension, "The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation" is a beautiful, prayerful book by Fr. Mike Schmitz and Fr. Josh Johnson. This small but powerful guide is the perfect size to slip into your pocket or purse, and will give you reflections, guidance, and an examination of conscience that you can bring with you to prepare for your sacramental encounter with God's mercy and forgiveness. Whether you have been away from Confession for a long time or you are looking for a fresh way to enliven your regular routine, The Pocket Guide to the Sacrament of Reconciliation will help you encounter God's merciful love and forgiveness in new and beautiful ways. Get your copy at www.AscensionPress.com/Reconciliation. The book is available for pre-order and is expected to start shipping February 19 and listeners will receive 15% off with code abide15. |
Feb 08, 2021 |
S09 E05: St. Joseph: With A Father’s Heart
32:53
In this episode, we focus on the patron of the universal Church, St Joseph. Since Pope Francis has declared this as the “Year of St Joseph”, we desire to uncover the gift of this humble and faithful adoptive father of Jesus. We discuss Joseph as a tender, loving Father who shows us that God can use our frailty and weakness to bring about great things for the Kingdom. We consider how in the face of disappointment, Joseph chose to surrender and continue to give his daily fiat. We pray that you would allow Joseph to take you into his home as he does with Mary and be open to the healing God wants to work in your heart this year. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Dear Father: A Message of Love for Priests - Catherine De Hueck Doherty Heather’s one thing - Recipe for baked black pepper ranch chicken fingers Michelle’s one thing - Becket Wants to Be a Priest - Matt Regitz Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “When God wishes to raise a soul to greater heights, he unites it to St. Joseph by giving it a strong love for the good saint” — St. Peter Julian Eymard Scripture for Lectio Divina - Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: “Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel,” which means, “God is with us.” When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus. - Matthew 1:18-25 Additional Resources:
Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study Announcement:The Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. This episode is sponsored by the Given Institute Forum. Are you a woman with a heart for mission and an aptitude for leadership? Come to the GIVEN Catholic Young Women’s Leadership Forum to develop your personal gifts and leadership skills and put them at the service of the Gospel! The GIVEN Forum will take place June 9th-13th at Catholic University in Washington DC and is open to emerging Catholic female leaders ages 21-30. You’ll receive faith formation, leadership development, and mentoring and leave with a concrete action plan that you’ll take back to the communities you love. The GIVEN Forum is the signature program of the GIVEN Institute, which seeks to raise up Catholic female leaders both lay and religious. The feminine genius is at the heart of the Church, and God has entrusted you with a gift only YOU can give, because of the gift that you are. Applications for the GIVEN Forum are now open! Visit www.giveninstitute.com to learn more about the Forum and apply today. Applications close on February 12th! |
Feb 01, 2021 |
S09 E04: HerStory Part 2 - Deborah
37:02
In this episode, we continue a mini-series on four women in scripture with the story of Deborah. We discuss the story of the prophetess Deborah who takes a posture of receptivity as she collaborates and mothers the people of Israel. We consider Deborah's magnificat and the ways we can give God praise for what he has done in our own lives. We chat about the importance of being attuned and attentive to God’s voice and where he may be inviting us to call others on to who they were meant to be. We pray that you would hear God’s invitation to rise up this week and allow the Holy Spirit full access that God may bring about his kingdom through you. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Beholding Beauty: Mary and the Song of Songs - Fr. Gregory Cleveland, OMV Heather’s one thing - My daughter Maria and the blessings of spiritual fathers like Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR at Franciscan where she is going off to University. Michelle’s one thing - Set a Fire for Kids Lent Journal - Blessed is She Discussion questions:
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Quotes to Ponder: “Women of the entire universe, whether Christian or non-believing, you to whom life is entrusted at this grave moment in history, it is for you to save the peace of the world.” - Saint Paul VI Scripture for Lectio Divina - “Villagers in Israel would not fight; they held back until I, Deborah, arose, until I arose, a mother in Israel.” - Judges 5:7 Abiding Together Podcast 2021 Lenten Book Study AnnouncementThe Abiding Together Podcast will be reading and discussing This Present Paradise by Claire Dwyer. You can find the reading plan, discussion questions and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. |
Jan 25, 2021 |
S09 E03: HerStory Part 1 - Hannah
39:46
In this episode, we begin a mini-series on four women in scripture with the story of Hannah. We discuss the importance of acknowledging our desires and the ache of longing much like Hannah’s desire for a child. We chat about the temptation to compare our areas of barrenness to other people’s fruitfulness and the freedom of surrender and keeping our eyes on Christ. We acknowledge the importance of remembering that union with God is the promise, not the things we desire, and how God’s delayed response is sometimes a great mercy. Sister Miriam closes this episode with a prayer inviting the Lord to meet you in the places of fear, despair and longing. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Bible in a Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins from Ascension Press Heather’s one thing - The 2021 Passion Conference Heather’s other one thing - Promises - Maverick City Music Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum Discussion questions:
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Quotes to Ponder: “To limit your desires and your hopes is to misunderstand God’s infinite goodness.” - St. Therese Scripture for Lectio Divina - “Daughter, the God of Israel has granted your petition as you have asked of Him.” - 1 Samuel 1:17 “My heart exults in the Lord, my horn is exalted in my God. I have swallowed up my enemies; I rejoice in my victory. There is no Holy One like the Lord; there is no Rock like our God.” - 1 Samuel 2:1-2 This episode is sponsored by Walking With Purpose. Do you long for healing and wholeness? Would you like to be rooted and grounded in a love that will never fail you? Fearless and Free, a Catholic Bible study from Walking with Purpose, will allow you to experience healing and wholeness in Christ. In this transformational study, you'll journey through the book of Ephesians to gain a firm Biblical foundation to stand on no matter what life throws your way. The six-lesson format of Fearless and Free makes it an ideal Bible study for Lent, and a free leader's guide can be downloaded from the Walking with Purpose website. Use code abide15 for 15% off Fearless and Free, now through Ash Wednesday, February 17. We also announce our 2021 Lenten Book Study - This Present Paradise - Claire Dwyer. |
Jan 18, 2021 |
S09 E02 The Year of the Word: An Interview with Father Mike Schmitz
53:16
In this episode we interview our special guest and friend, Fr. Mike Schmitz and introduce you to a brand new podcast from Ascension Press, The Bible in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins. We discuss the importance of developing a biblical worldview: a lens to view our relationships, circumstances and choices through how the scripture teaches us to think about ourselves and about God. We chat with one of the most recognizable priests in the modern church about humility, the scripture that speaks to him, and what we all can receive by opening the scriptures every day for a year. You can find a daily reading plan and more information about The Bible in Year Podcast with Fr. Mike Schmitz featuring Jeff Cavins at AscensionPress.com. Father Mike’s one thing - I Celebrate the Day - Relient K Father Mike’s other one thing - simplifying and decluttering his life Sister Miriam’s one thing - O Come Let Us Adore Him - Maverick City Music Heather’s one thing - Holy Mass Candle from Providential Co. Michelle’s one thing - 'Tabernacle' print from Ascension Press Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “My strength returns to me with my cup of coffee and the reading of the psalms” - Dorothy Day Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path.” - Psalm 119:105 Announcements: We will be announcing our Lenten book study title and where to buy your book on Monday, January 18. Subscribe to our weekly listener email to be the first to know!
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Jan 11, 2021 |
S09 E01: The Word of the Year
46:21
In this episode, we continue our annual tradition of the word of the year! Each year we each ask God to give us a theme to focus on for the new year and invite you to do the same. After personal prayer and reflection, we share our word for 2021 and how God has led us on a journey from year to year. After a difficult 2020, we discuss the importance of hope, not in a thing, but in the Person of Jesus. We chat about how sometimes a new yes to the Holy Spirit requires saying no to something else, to make room in our lives for something new that God is doing. We encourage you to pray, reflect and ask the Lord to reveal to you a new word of hope and renewal for this new year! Sister Miriam’s one thing - The new year! Heather’s one thing - Sunday dinners with her family Michelle’s one thing - Rooted Skincare - Brooke Summers Michelle’s other one thing - The One Who Gave Myrrh - Kate Capato and Visual Grace Discussion questions:
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Quotes to Ponder: “A new beginning! We must learn to live each day, each hour, yes, each minute as a new beginning, as a unique opportunity to make everything new. Imagine that we could live each moment as a moment pregnant with new life. Imagine that we could live each day as a day full of promises. Imagine that we could walk through the new year always listening to a voice saying to us: “I have a gift for you and can’t wait for you to see it! Imagine!” — Henri Nouwen, You Are the Beloved: Daily Meditations for Spiritual Living Scripture for Lectio Divina - “You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance” - Psalm 65:11 This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot. Pink Salt Riot is a Catholic women’s lifestyle brand that specializes in outfitting joyful hometown missionaries - the women living the joy of the gospel in their own unique life and calling. Now through January 24 Pink Salt Riot is offering custom made word of the year jewelry and keychains to help you keep your 2021 word top of mind all year long. Shop the full selection at pinksaltriot.com/collections/word-of-the-year/, including brand new beaded and chain bracelets! Abiding Together listeners can get an exclusive 15% discount on all regularly priced items in their order with the code abide15. |
Jan 04, 2021 |
S08 E15: Advent Part 4: Mary’s Mantle
34:15
In this episode, we conclude our four part Advent series on the nature and character of Mary, our Mother. We chat about the nurturing. protecting motherhood that Mary wants to offer each of us this Christmas season. We discuss how Mary is the perfect model of loving excellently, even through suffering, and that love is always worth the risk of birth. We pray that our hearts would stay open like Mary to be able to see the joy of the resurrection on the other side of our crosses. Thank you for a great season 8 and we will see you in January! Sister Miriam’s one thing - Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen Sister Miriam’s other one thing - Little Women - Louisa May Alcott Michelle’s one thing - Ascension’s Bible in a Year podcast hosted by Fr. Mike Schmitz Michelle’s other one thing - The Crown season 4 Heather’s one thing - Noel - Chris Tomlin featuring Lauren Daigle
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Quotes to Ponder: "Hear me and understand well, that nothing should frighten or grieve you. Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my mantle? What else do you wish? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything. ― Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego Scripture for Lectio Divina - Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple there whom he loved, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother.” And from that hour the disciple took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled,* Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine.* So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head, he handed over the spirit. - John 19:25-30 This episode is created under the patronage of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Learn more about Our Lady of Guadalupe here or pray a novena to Our Lady of Guadalupe here. |
Dec 21, 2020 |
S08 E14: Advent Part 3: Warrior Mother
36:48
In this episode, we continue our four part Advent series on the nature and character of Mary, our Mother. We discuss the call for women to be tender and strong, to fight for those we love with the power of the feminine genius. We chat about the tender strength required to watch Jesus suffer and die and the importance of trust, surrender and strength submitted under the will of God. Mary is offering her motherhood to us if we are willing to receive her invitation of protection. Michelle’s one thing - In Full Boom - Claire Swinarski Michelle’s other one thing - Rekindled - Mallory Smyth Sister Miriam’s one thing - Essays on Women - Edith Stein. ENDOW also created an online study on these writings that you can purchase online here. Heather’s one thing - Watching epic movies like Gladiator and Braveheart with her family Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder: One instant in a still light, He saw Our Lady then, Her dress was soft as western sky, And she was queen most womanly– But she was queen of men. Over the iron forest He saw Our Lady stand; Her eyes were sad withouten art, And seven swords were in her heart– But one was in her hand. - G.K. Chesterton, The Ballad of the White Horse Scripture for Lectio Divina - Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was on him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord’s Messiah. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all nations:a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel. The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” - Luke 2: 25-35 This episode is sponsored by Project Light Ministries. Project Light Ministries resources are designed to create space and starting points for conversations where the secular can intersect with the sacred. Their resources make no assumptions and meet each person right where they are. They use the power of storytelling on film because each one of us needs to know we are not alone. The aim of creating a film is not just about getting a message out there. The process dictates that our media is raw, honest, and beautiful. For this reason, they make documentary style films, a specialty of their partner 4PM Media. They achieve captivating cinematography by appealing to truth and beauty in everything they approach. Nine years ago, they dreamed of helping others create a safe space where individuals could sit and find the courage to tell their story. Where men & women, young & old, would affirm their worth by sharing bits of brokenness of their past chapters & current struggles. A space that would confront the uncomfortable, talk about the “taboo” and shine light into the darkest parts of our hearts. A place that would offer hope, grace, mercy and an invitation to rewrite the script of society. We are the ones called to speak truth over one another of a God who calls us by name who can redeem the darkest parts of our story. You can find Project Light Ministries films as a DVD or digital download at www.projectlightministries.com. Enter the code "abide10" for 10% off of the DVD Bundle which includes a copy of both "Speaking to Sparrows" and "The 4th Man". This episode is created under the patronage of Our Lady of Sorrows. Learn more about the novena to our Lady of Sorrows here or the Seven Sorrows Rosary here.
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Dec 14, 2020 |
S08 E13: Advent Part 2: Garden of Her Womb
36:34
In this episode, we continue with Part 2 of our Advent series on Mary, our Mother. The garden of her womb represents safety, tenderness, being wanted, and love. We discuss the restoration of Eve’s failures that came about through Mary’s surrender and the restoration God wants to work in our lives through our surrender and trust. We chat about the importance of saying yes in the moment by moment of every day. We reflect on the idea of placing ourselves in the womb of Mary and allowing her to mother us as the Holy Spirit transforms us. We pray you allow the Holy Spirit to visit you this advent and create new life! Michelle’s one thing - Holding babies and young children Sister Miriam’s one thing - Red Lentil Curry Soup recipe Heather’s one thing - Unveiled Marriage Retreat by the John Paul II Healing Center. You can find all the retreats hosted by the John Paul II Healing Center at: https://jpiihealingcenter.org/events/. Books Mentioned - Reed of God - Caryll Houselander Discussion questions:
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Quotes to Ponder: “When the angel appeared to Mary, God was announcing this love for the new humanity. It was the beginning of a new earth, and Mary became ‘a flesh-gift Paradise to be gardened by the new Adam.’ As in the first garden, Eve brought destruction, so in the garden of her womb Mary would now bring Redemption.” - Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen “Christ must be born from every soul, formed in every life. If we had a picture of Our Lady's personality we might be dazzled into thinking that only one sort of person could form Christ in himself, and we should miss the meaning of our own being. Nothing but things essential for us are revealed to us about the Mother of God: the fact that she was wed to the Holy Spirit and bore Christ into the world. Our crowning joy is that she did this as a lay person and through the ordinary daily life that we all live; through natural love made supernatural, as the water at Cana was, at her request, turned into wine.” ― Caryll Houselander, The Reed of God: A New Edition of a Spiritual Classic Scripture for Lectio Divina - During those days Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah, where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit, cried out in a loud voice and said, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For at the moment the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” - Luke 1:39-45 This episode is sponsored by Leanne Bowen Fine Art. Leanne Bowen is a Catholic artist who strives to make beautiful things that radiate Christ’s love. Check out her work for images of the Sacred, Immaculate, and Most Chaste Hearts, portraits of the Saints, and images from prayer. She makes beautiful wedding and Sacrament cards, as well as Christmas Cards. She also has great stocking stuffers like vinyl stickers, magnets, and pins. If you are looking for a truly beautiful and unique gift to put beneath the tree this year, visit www.leannebowen.com. She is offering 15% off to all our listeners through January 1st with the code ABIDE15. This episode is created under the patronage of Mary, Our Lady of Carmel. You can find a novena to Our Lady of Carmel here. |
Dec 07, 2020 |
S08 E12: Advent Part 1: Fiat
38:53
In this episode, we begin our four part Advent series on Mary, our heavenly Mother. We discuss the powerful model Mary is for us in how she trusted the character of God when she surrendered control of her own life to say yes to the Holy Spirit. We also chat about seeking healing for areas where motherhood has wounded us or we have been dominated and manipulated by others. Sister Miriam leads a beautiful time of prayer inviting Mary to mother us and Jesus to heal us. We pray you continue to open your hearts wide to Jesus coming this Advent! Sister Miriam’s one thing - Nine Days to Welcome Peace and Nine Days to Rediscover the Joy of Prayer - Father Jacques Philippe Michelle’s one thing - Till I Found you - Phil Wickham Heather’s one thing - Advent Traditions like wooden advent wreath and Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas - Ann Voskamp Discussion questions:
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Quotes to Ponder: “It was that the knot of Eve's disobedience was loosed by the obedience of Mary. For what the Virgin Eve had bound fast through unbelief, this did the Virgin Mary set free through faith.” - St. Irenaeus “Every woman has something in herself inherited from Eve, and she must search for the way from Eve to Mary” - Edith Stein Scripture for Lectio Divina - In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived* a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God. ”Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. Luke 1:26-38 This episode is created under the patronage of Mary, Undoer of Knots. You can find a novena to Mary, Undoer of Knots here.
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Nov 30, 2020 |
S08 E11: Holey, Wholly, Holy: Living an Integrated Life
39:44
In this episode, we talk about living a healthy and integrated physical and spiritual life with special guest Jackie Mulligan of Reform Wellness. We discuss the importance of acknowledging our weaknesses and holes, so Christ can make us whole and place us on the path to holiness. We chat about the idea of Christ-centered wellness where health is more than a number on a scale but a step-by-step renewal that leads to an abundant life. You can find out more about Jackie and Reform Wellness online at reformwellness.co and on Instagram @reform_wellness. Jackie’s one thing- Interior Castle - St. Theresa of Avila Heather’s one thing - Take Heart Again - Hillsong United Michelle’s one thing - Bold Blooming - Jill Simmons Sister Miriam’s one thing - Rejoice Advent: Meditations with Mary and Joseph - Fr. Mark Toups and Ascension Press. Use the code ABIDE10 to receive 10% off any of the gorgeous custom artwork that goes along with the series! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “To reform. A little each day. This must be your constant concern if you really want to become a saint.” - St. Josemaría Escrivá Scripture for Lectio Divina - “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.” - 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 |
Nov 23, 2020 |
S08 E10: Scripture Series Pt 3: Waymaker- Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life
38:38
In this episode, we complete part 3 of our series on the Person of Jesus revealed in Scripture and what it means to personally know Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life. We chat about how relevant this is for us right now as we struggle to see a way forward in the craziness of the world and struggle to know what the truth really is amidst the enemy’s lies. We discuss how living the Paschal Mystery over and over is the Way to experience new life. Jesus invites us to an abundant life: the life that longs to be lived in us. It is not a riddle to be solved, but an invitation to stay with Him. Heather’s one thing - I Believe - Damascus Worship. You can also find out more about the mission of Damascus and their missionary school online here. Michelle’s one thing - Something Has To Break - Kierra Sheard and Tasha Cobbs Leonard Michelle’s other one thing - The Advent Prayer Cards on sale now! Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Best Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “If, then, you are looking for the way by which you should go, take Christ, because he himself is the way: This is the way; walk in it. If you are looking for a goal, hold fast to Christ, because he himself is the truth, where we desire to be. My mouth shall reflect on the truth. If you are looking for a resting place, hold fast to Christ, because he himself is the life. Whoever finds me finds life, and receives salvation from the Lord.” - St Thomas Aquinas Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 14:5-6 “Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Other Scripture to Pray With -
This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic. The Little Catholic empowers women through hand-crafted, meaningful pieces that cultivate deeper faith and evangelization through beauty. Our impact extends beyond jewelry and empowering women. We also empower and partner with non-profits around the globe, designing beautiful pieces unique to their cause and donating a portion of all proceeds back to their mission. Giving back is one of our fundamental values. |
Nov 16, 2020 |
S08 E09: Scripture Series Pt 2: New Wine - Jesus, The Vine
36:03
In this episode, we continue with part 2 in our series on the Person of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. We break open one of our favorite topics: abiding in the vine. We talk about the freedom that comes from dependence on Jesus and the patience required to allow fruit to mature. When we can let down our defenses of self-protection and allow ourselves to be crushed as grapes, God can transform us into a new wine that is good and sweet, even if it hurts. Jesus is inviting us into a maturation process, a continual surrender that will ultimately bear good fruit, fruit that lasts, for the kingdom. Heather’s one thing - They That Hope Podcast - Fr. Dave Pivonka and Dr. Bob Rice Michelle’s one thing - Know You - Koryn Hawthorne featuring Steffany Gretzinger Michelle’s other one thing - How Great - Koryn Hawthorne Sister Miriam’s one thing - Life Model: Living from the Heart Jesus Gave you - James Friesen Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “To be living branches in the vineyard of the Church means above all to be in living communion with Christ the vine. The branches are not self-sufficient; they are totally dependent on the vine. In the vine is the source of their life.”- JPII Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 15:5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. Other Scripture to Pray With -
This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic. The Little Catholic empowers women through hand-crafted, meaningful pieces that cultivate deeper faith and evangelization through beauty. Our impact extends beyond jewelry and empowering women. We also empower and partner with non-profits around the globe, designing beautiful pieces unique to their cause and donating a portion of all proceeds back to their mission. Giving back is one of our fundamental values. |
Nov 09, 2020 |
S08 E08: Scripture Series Pt 1: Follow the Leader - Jesus, The Good Shepherd
39:55
Follow the Leader - Jesus, The Good Shepherd In this episode, we begin a 3 part series on the Person of Jesus as revealed in Scripture. We break open Psalm 23 and discuss how we are personally invited to experience the comfort, provision, protection, restoration, correction, and leadership of the Good Shepherd. We also talk about the failure of some of our shepherds on earth and how God wants to restore us. Jesus the Good Shepherd wants us to experience Him personally. Michelle’s one thing - Her new nephew, Quinn David, and all mothers of young children Heather’s one thing - Our listeners and passing the 5 million downloads threshold Heather’s other one thing - The Search - Chris Stefanick and FORMED. You can also access the panel discussions on each episode at beholdvancouver.org starting on November 5 from 7:00-8:30 Pacific Time Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Great Adventure Catholic Bible - Ascension Press Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “I am like the sick sheep that strays from the rest of the flock. Unless the Good Shepherd takes me on His shoulders and carries me back to His fold, my steps will falter, and in the very effort of rising, my feet will give way.” - St. Jerome Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 23: 1-6 The LORD is my shepherd there is nothing I lack. In green pastures he makes me lie down; to still waters he leads me; he restores my soul. He guides me along the right paths for the sake of his name. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff comfort me. You set a table before me in front of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Indeed, goodness and mercy will pursue me all the days of my life; I will dwell in the house of the LORD for endless days. Other Scripture to Pray With -
This episode is sponsored by Walking With Purpose. Learn more about your faith while you build meaningful relationships in a Walking with Purpose Bible study group. Hundreds of parishes are offering WWP Bible studies right now, and you can search by location to find a group near you. What's more, most parish-based Bible study groups are virtual this fall, so you may join up with your Sisters-in-Christ from the comfort of home. We are not meant to journey alone! Search for a parish program or start your own WWP Bible study group today. |
Nov 02, 2020 |
S08 Episode 07: Encountering Jesus & The Church in Scripture
39:37
In this episode we chat with Dr. Andrew Swafford, associate professor of theology at Benedictine College. We talk about encountering the Person of Jesus in scripture and the power of connecting the head and the heart. We also discuss the beauty of Scripture, how to connect the dots between the old and the new, and how Scripture is always relevant to every time and culture. Dr. Andrew Swafford’s one thing - his wife, Sarah Dr. Andrew Swafford’s other one thing - The Glories of Divine Gracie - Fr. Matthias Scheeben Heather’s one thing - Victory - Jay and Jo Michelle’s one thing - The Impact of God - Fr. Iain Matthew Michelle’s other one thing - Fr. Mark Mary and Fr. Innocent CFR and their visit to Pensacola Sister Miriam’s one thing - Butternut Squash and all Fall recipes Books Mentioned - All the titles mentioned by Dr. Swafford can be found online here. Here are the three recommendations to get your started:
You can also receive 20% off any studies in the Hebrews collection by Dr. Andrew Swafford through Ascension Press with the code Abide20. Check out all Hebrews has to offer! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Learn the Heart of God from the Word of God.” - Pope St. Gregory Scripture for Lectio Divina - Joshua 1:8 “This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to act in accordance with all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall be successful.” |
Oct 26, 2020 |
S08 Episode 06: The Power of Poverty, the Beauty of Mercy - Part 2
24:52
The Power of Poverty & The Beauty of Mercy - Part 2 In this episode we continue with Part 2 of our interview with Fr Mark-Mary CFR. We discuss the invitation to encounter the presence of Jesus in the poor, our fears that can get in the way, and living the corporal works of mercy with those who are among us. Fr. Mark Mary’s one thing - All the lovely women in his life and their amazing feminine genius, most especially Michelle Benzinger Sister Miriam’s one thing - Cause of our Joy - Mother Mary Francis, P.C.C Michelle’s one thing - The friendship of Heather, Sister Miriam, and Fr. Mark Mary Heather’s one thing - Canadian Thanksgiving, eh? Heather’s other one thing - Maverick City, Vol. 3 Pt. 2- Maverick City Music Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.” - Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 25: 31-46 “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?’ And the king will say to them in reply, ‘Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.’ Then he will say to those on his left, ‘Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.’ Then they will answer and say, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?’ He will answer them, ‘Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.’ And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life.’” |
Oct 19, 2020 |
S08 Episode 05: The Power of Poverty, the Beauty of Mercy - Part 1
36:19
In this episode we begin a two part podcast with our friend Fr. Mark-Mary of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal (CFR)! In part 1, Fr. Mark-Mary shares his journey from growing up in a wealthy family to joining the CFR’s and taking a vow of radical poverty. He talks about his love for the sacrament of confession and shares how spiritual poverty makes room for God to be a Father to us and show us His love and providence. We often spend so much energy hiding our weakness, but freedom is to be found when we allow God and others to love us in our littleness. Fr. Mark Mary’s one thing - Be mindful of the poor - Galatians 2:10 Sister Miriam’s one thing - Today If You Hear Him - Taylor Leonhardt Michelle’s one thing - The Saint Story Cards of Mother Teresa, St. John Paul II, St. Therese of Lisieux, and St. Francis of Assisi created by Greenhouse Collective, The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and Our Sunday Visitor Heather’s one thing - The Dumpster Fire and the Garden - Brad Montague Heather’s other one thing - Blessed Carlo Acutis
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “A saint is someone who, fascinated by the beauty of God, gives up everything, even himself, and enters into the great movement of return to the Father that was initiated by Christ. We are all called to it.” - Cardinal Sarah Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 6: 25-33 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink, or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds in the sky; they do not sow or reap, they gather nothing into barns, yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are not you more important than they? Can any of you by worrying add a single moment to your life-span? Why are you anxious about clothes? Learn from the way the wildflowers grow. They do not work or spin. But I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was clothed like one of them. If God so clothes the grass of the field, which grows today and is thrown into the oven tomorrow, will he not much more provide for you, O you of little faith? So do not worry and say, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear?’ All these things the pagans seek. Your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides.” |
Oct 12, 2020 |
S08 Episode 04: Holy Curiosity: Discovering Your Temperament
36:10
In this episode we talk about the importance of growing in self awareness and understanding our temperament and personality traits. We chat about how understanding the temperament God has given to us can help us see our tendencies, areas we need to grow, and how to embrace those who are different from us. We also talk about the pitfalls in personality tests that turn into excuses for bad behavior or labels that don't allow for grace and the power of God to change us and restore our brokenness. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Sister Miriam’s Green Drink: Combine any quantity of kale, spinach, celery, cucumber, carrots, sliced apple or pear and ice in a blender. Add 1 scoop chia seeds and/or superfood powder if you want. Blend until smooth and enjoy! Michelle’s one thing - Take the World by JOHNNYSWIM Heather’s one thing - Heather's Greek Pasta Salad Recipe
Books Mentioned: The Temperament God Gave You by Art Bennett, Laraine Bennett The Temperament God Gave your Kids by Art Bennett The Temperament God gave your Spouse by Loraine Bennett
Basic Temperament Definitions: Discover your temperament with this online test. Choleric: You are a natural leader and energetic go-getter, the classic "type A" personality. You are usually extraverted, which means that your energy is focused externally, actively, and socially. You are a "can do" person, energetic, determined and confident. Phlegmatic: You are calm, easy-going, and good-natured. To the ancient Greeks, phlegmatic were like water: calm, cool, going with the flow. You are dependable, polite, and even-tempered. You feel more comfortable in a small group of friends or even spending a quiet evening relaxing at home. Melancholic: Yours is a thoughtful, sensitive, artistic temperament, with noble aspirations. You are very likely artistic, romantic, and attentive to detail. Quiet and introverted (except with very close friends and family) you will need to recharge your batteries by spending time alone. Sanguine: You are friendly, fun-loving, and optimistic--always up for something new and exciting. You love a spur-of-the-moment adventure and being spontaneous.Sanguines are the most extraverted of all the temperaments: active, inquisitive, and energized by being with people. Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Self-knowledge is so important that, even if you were raised right up to the heavens, I should like you never to relax your cultivation of it.” - St Teresa of Avila Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 6:43-45 “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. Figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good person out of the good treasure of the heart produces good, and the evil person out of evil treasure produces evil; for it is out of the abundance of the heart that the mouth speaks.”
This episode is sponsored by Every Sacred Sunday. The Every Sacred Sunday Mass Journal is designed to help you intentionally prepare and engage with the Mass each week. It contains the readings for each Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation for one liturgical year with a simple journaling template after each reading. Other features include thick quality paper, a durable hardbound cover, original illustrations, and key prayers of the Mass. This journal is thoughtfully designed to invite you to say yes to God, one Sunday at a time. Get $5 off your next purchase with the code abide5. |
Oct 05, 2020 |
S08 Episode 03: Personal Holiness, Personal Mission
37:08
In this episode we move beyond the idea of personal holiness and discuss the practicals of how to grow in holiness. Holiness is a unique path of surrender to God and He has provided all that we need to be holy right where we are. We chat about the importance of the will, surrender, fasting, prayer, and being sober and alert. Starting today, we are invited to make the pursuit of holiness - growing towards intimate union with God - a priority. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The sculpture A Quiet Moment by Timothy P. Schmalz Michelle’s one thing - Praying the Rosary for Inner Healing by Fr. Dwight Longenecker Michelle’s other one thing - Praying the Rosary for Spiritual Warfare by Fr. Dwight Longenecker Michelle’s other other one thing - Mighty is Her Call - A Mother’s Rosary Guide Heather’s one thing - Abide in Me - Chris August Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Holiness is the most attractive face of the Church” - Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - 1 Peter 1:15-16 “Instead, as He who called you is holy, be holy yourselves in all your conduct; for it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’” This episode is sponsored by CORDA candles. CORDA brings the light of the saints to the domestic church. Each handcrafted candle has a custom scent directly inspired by saints and the faith, such as Our Lady, Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, St.Therese, and Night Prayer. And they’re made with an all-natural coconut wax blend, which is cleaner and burns longer than soy wax. Explore all the scents at www.cordacandles.com and receive 10% off with promo code ABIDE10. |
Sep 28, 2020 |
S08 Episode 02: An Unshakeable God in Unprecedented Times
35:49
In this episode we talk about how we are finding the Lord and clinging to Him in a time that is uncertain and wrought with suffering and isolation. We discuss how these times of difficulty expose how strong our root systems are and the difference between isolation vs solitude . We also chat about the importance of learning to lament and offer our sorrow to God instead of shutting it down or wallowing in self pity. The invitation is for us to build our foundation on our unshakeable God. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Heather’s new backyard pool! Michelle’s one thing - Mary's Mantle Consecration by Christine Watkins Michelle’s other one thing - Marian Consecration for Families with Young Children by Colleen Pressprich and illustrated by Rebecca Gorzynska Heather’s one thing - I Surrender - Hillsong and Lauren Daigle Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “The cross means there is no shipwreck without hope; there is no dark without dawn; nor storm without haven.” Pope John Paul II Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 62:1-2 “My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.” |
Sep 21, 2020 |
S08 Episode 01: New Beginnings
34:03
Welcome to season 8! In this episode we talk about what the Lord has been teaching us over the summer and how we are invited to find our peace by fixing our eyes on Jesus and resting in the gaze of God. If we can look higher to find a kingdom perspective, we can find security in His Sovereignty. We talk about the deep realization that in all that has happened and has been taken away in 2020, there is no other answer, no other way forward, than Jesus Christ himself.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus - Lauren Daigle Michelle’s one thing - The Life of Elise Angelette: watch her Funeral Mass (homily starts around minute 46) or read more about her life Heather’s one thing - The One Minute Pause App Book mentioned: Get Your Life Back - by John Eldridge Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.” – Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” |
Sep 14, 2020 |
S07 Episode 24: Unity and Charity
41:15
Unity and Charity In this last episode of Season 7, we look back at our favorite moments and highlight important conversations from the season. We also talk about unity, using social media wisely, taking a holy pause before we speak, and the invitation to be peacemakers. We must begin with ourselves if we want to be a person of peace and unity. We also check in about how we are doing with our word of the year. Our new season will begin September 14.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Our benefactors and Patreon supporters Michelle’s one thing - Our Abiding Together “village,” and everyone who makes our Facebook group such a refuge of graciousness and kindness! Heather’s one thing - Also our Patreon supporters, and the Abiding Together team.
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - Jesus can demand a great deal from us. It is precisely in those instances when He demands a great deal from us that we should give Him a beautiful smile.” St. Mother Teresa
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Jun 29, 2020 |
S07 Episode 23: Spiritual Fatherhood (with Fr. Dave Pivonka)
38:11
Spiritual Fatherhood (with Fr. Dave Pivonka) In this episode we interview our dear friend Fr. Dave Pivonka, creator of the Wild Goose Series and President of Franciscan University of Steubenville. We discuss the importance of spiritual fathers, our need for restoration of the image and experience of fatherhood, and a deepening in our understanding of God as Father. We also discuss the characteristics of a good spiritual father.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Black bean and roasted vegetable salad You can add: Quinoa Fresh lime juice instead of the suggested lemon juice dressing Cumin/Chili power or taco seasoning Fresh diced jalapeño All yummy things!
Enjoy!
Michelle’s one thing - My front porch!
Heather’s one thing - Zach and Abby Vestnys on Instagram and Youtube, and an app with deliverance prayers from the St. Michael Center for Spiritual Renewal (Apple) (Google)
Father Dave’s one thing - Baseball. Bring baseball back!!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “God chooses ordinary men for fatherhood to accomplish His extraordinary plan.” - G.K. Chesterton
“The language of faith thus draws on the human experience of parents, who are in a way the first representatives of God for man. But this experience also tells us that human parents are fallible and can disfigure the face of fatherhood and motherhood. We ought therefore to recall that God transcends the human distinction between the sexes. He is neither man nor woman: he is God. He also transcends human fatherhood and motherhood, although he is their origin and standard: no one is father as God is Father.” - CCC 239
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Jun 22, 2020 |
S07 Episode 22: In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 3: Chapter Three and Conclusion
43:30
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 3: Chapter Three and Conclusion In this episode we wrap up Part 3 of our book study on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book In the School of the Holy Spirit. We discuss how to discern between the voice of the Lord and our own voice or the enemy’s voice. We also talk about practical tools for wielding the sword of truth as well as discernment in vocation, ministry, and life. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The new Bible study from Ascension on the book of Hebrews (Available now for preorder!) Michelle’s one thing - Men’s podcasts for Father’s Day (see below!) Heather’s one thing - The Archdiocese of Vancouver’s new website, Behold.
Additional Resources Prayer by Cardinal Mercier - Holy Spirit, soul of my soul, I adore Thee.
Kapaun’s Men is dedicated to building up men as bands of brothers to help us fight the spiritual battle that rages around us. Their model is the heroic Catholic Priest and Army Chaplain, Servant of God Emil Kapaun, who spent himself tirelessly on the battlefields and in the prison camps of North Korea until his death at the hands of his captors. They offer 4 original video series inspired by the life of Father Kapaun and our fellow men and women around us, which can be found on Formed.org or can be ordered directly from us. They also recently started a weekly podcast called “The Foxhole with Father Kapaun” to help give a boost of encouragement to everyone out there fighting the good fight, whether it be in the family, in the workplace, or in the community at large. Chris Stefanick’s Awesome 5 minute Father Kapaun video
A few other podcasts to recommend to the men in your life. Poco a Poco Podcast - The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal Restore the Glory Podcast -Dr. Bob Schuchts, Ph.D and Jake Khym, MA The Paul George Show - Paul George (also his book Rethink Happiness) Ask Father Josh - Father Josh Johnson
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “A tree is known by its fruit.” An inspiration from God, if we follow it, will produce sound fruit: the fruits of peace, joy, charity, communion, and humility. - Fr. Jacques Philippe |
Jun 15, 2020 |
S07 Episode 21: In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 2: Chapter Two
38:32
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 2: Chapter Two In this episode we continue the 2nd part of our book study on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s In the School of the Holy Spirit. We discuss the practical elements of fostering an environment where the Holy Spirit can inspire and direct us. We also talk about inviting the Holy Spirit to speak the truth into false narratives we believe and to baptize our thought processes. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The podcast Poco a Poco from the CFRs. Thai Green Curry recipe. Meat and quinoa can be added rather than rice or just vegetarian. Super Yummy! Michelle’s one thing - The CFRs’ new podcast, Poco a Poco with Fr. Mark-Mary, Fr. Innocent, and Fr. Angelus Heather’s one thing - The CFR’s podcast Poco a Poco! And the album Peace by Bethel And collectively... we love you, Fr. Jacques Philippe!
Join this Summer Book Study! We’re spending the next few weeks with In the School of the Holy Spirit by Fr. Jacques Philippe. This book is going to help you to be more attentive to the movements of the Holy Spirit in your life as you learn to value the third person of the Trinity as the Sanctifier of your soul. Fr. Jacques explains the rewards of being attentive to the Holy Spirit and provides simple and concrete ways to grow in this inner sensitivity. In his clear and simple style, he illustrates his points with many examples from modern life. In the School of the Holy Spirit is a valuable aid in your own spiritual journey. We began June 1 and will go till June 15, but you can do this at any time that suits your schedule; maybe in the middle of the summer or in the future works best for you. We will have questions available for you on our website as well as hearty discussions in our private facebook group, which you are welcome to join. We hope you will grab your copy of In the School of the Holy Spirit and join us. You can buy a hard copy or kindle version on Amazon (Amazon US) (Amazon Canada) (Amazon UK), or check your local Catholic book store. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases: Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK. If you are not in one of those three countries, you can always purchase the book through your ordinary Amazon channel.) Get your copy today and follow along with us. Reading Schedule:
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - The Spirit of God is a spirit of peace, and he speaks and acts in peace and gentleness, never in tumult and agitation - Fr. Jacques Philippe |
Jun 08, 2020 |
S07 Episode 20: In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 1: Introduction and Chapter One
40:50
In the School of the Holy Spirit Part 1: Introduction and Chapter One In this episode we begin our 3 week book study on In the School of the Holy Spirit by Fr. Jacques Philippe. We talk about how holiness is not something to be gained by human effort, rather it is a complete surrender to the work of the Holy Spirit in us. We also discuss how we should seek to love God with our whole heart because He is good, not because of what we want Him to give us in return.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - good old-fashioned thunderstorms! Michelle’s one thing - a Father’s Day gift guide (see below!), mainly the new Bible from Word on Fire: the beauty, the commentary, the art! Heather’s one thing - The show This Is Us, and musician Sarah Kroger.
Additional Resources Michelle’s Father's Day Gift Guide Books for Dad:
Gifts for Fathers and Spiritual Fathers - Please take 15% off your purchase from the Greenhouse Collective Shop with discount code: Abide15 Book Study Join this Summer Book Study! We’re spending the next few episodes with In the School of the Holy Spirit by Fr. Jacques Philippe. This book is going to help you to be more attentive to the movements of the Holy Spirit in your life as you learn to value the third person of the Trinity as the Sanctifier of your soul. Fr. Jacques explains the rewards of being attentive to the Holy Spirit and provides simple and concrete ways to grow in this inner sensitivity. In his clear and simple style, he illustrates his points with many examples from modern life. In the School of the Holy Spirit is a valuable aid in your own spiritual journey. We will begin today and go till June 15, but you can do this at any time that suits your schedule; maybe in the middle of the summer or in the future works best for you. We will have questions available for you on our website as well as hearty discussions in our private facebook group, which you are welcome to join. We hope you will grab your copy of In the School of the Holy Spirit and join us. You can buy a hard copy or kindle version on Amazon (Amazon US) (Amazon Canada) (Amazon UK), or check your local Catholic book store. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases: Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK. If you are not in one of those three countries, you can always purchase the book through your ordinary Amazon channel.) Get your copy today and follow along with us. Reading Schedule: Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - God is very generous and does not refuse His grace to anyone. He gives even more than we ask for. The shortest road is faithfulness to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit. - St. Faustina’s Diary
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 6:38 |
Jun 01, 2020 |
S07 Episode 19: The Fruit of the Holy Spirit
41:52
The Fruit of the Holy Spirit In this episode we prepare for Pentecost by discussing the importance of the fruits of the Holy Spirit being manifest in our life. A life in the Spirit must go beyond an experience of spiritual consolation and move to an openness to the refiner’s fire that will burn away all that is not holy. God promised that He would always be with us and sent the Holy Spirit to be our counselor, advocate, and life giver. We are invited to open wide the doors to the Holy Spirit in a new way this Pentecost.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - the song Better than a Hallelujah by Amy Grant Michelle’s one thing - Fr. Josh Johnson’s podcast on the Rosary and racial reconciliation. Heather’s one thing - the show Songland
Additional Resources: Join our Summer Book Study! We’re spending June with In the School of the Holy Spirit by Fr. Jacques Philippe! Get your copy today and follow along with us. (Amazon US) (Amazon Canada) (Amazon UK) Reading Schedule: Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “The Holy Spirit, making life alive, moving in all things, root of all created being, cleansing the cosmos of every impurity, effacing guilt, anointing wounds. You are lustrous and praiseworthy life, You waken and reawaken everything that is.” - St. Hildegard of Bingen Scripture for Lectio Divina - The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. - Galatians 5:22-23 |
May 25, 2020 |
S07 Episode 18: The Power of Christian Unity
59:55
The Power of Christian Unity In this episode we have the pleasure of chatting with our dear friend Matt Maher! As a devout Catholic in the world of Christian music industry, Matt shares his heart for unity and God’s desire that we would all be one. Matt also talks about his marriage and how he and his wife do life together as a Catholic and Methodist. We also discuss practical steps of how to be a bridge builder with people of other faiths and the gift of the sacraments. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The litany The Magnificat with Mary from the Sisters of Life Michelle’s one thing - The Sanctifier (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) by Archbishop Luis Martinez, and my husband Chris Heather’s one thing - The podcast Restore the Glory from my husband Jake and Dr. Bob Schuchts, and the song Promises from Maverick City Matt’s one thing - The Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) and the Holy Family as a whole.
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Christian unity was Christ's dearest desire. He expressed it in his last testament as he walked toward his tragic destiny: the Cross. He prayed in his priestly prayer ‘that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.’” (John 17:21) - Cardinal Nasrallah Pierre Sfeir (Cardinal’s Symposium - October 2003) Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 17: 20-24 “I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.” |
May 18, 2020 |
S07 Episode 17: Things We Learned From Our Moms
42:04
Things We Learned From Our Moms In this episode we honour Mother’s Day and talk about some essential things we learned from our mothers. We discuss what they have taught us about joy and suffering, and how they revealed the face of God to us. We also chat about how God wants to heal and restore broken relationships with our mothers.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Esther Marie Angel! Congratulations to Jackie and Bobby! Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum is doing a 4-day Online Conference! Discover the Gift, June 10-14th Heather’s one thing - Salmon Wellington, so you can have one, simple, awesome-looking meal! Ingredients: 1 package puff pastry, softened to room temperature Instructions: Preheat oven to 425 Rinse salmon and pat dry. Lightly flour a large cutting board bigger than the salmon. Roll out the puff pastry wide enough that it will cover both sides of the salmon. (Or use puff pastry sheets) Place the salmon in the middle of the pastry (the best side facing down) and season both sides with salt and pepper (optional dill) and squeeze fresh lemon juice over one side of the salmon. Fold the edges of the puff pastry over the salmon starting with the longer sides and gently press together to seal. Trim any excess pastry from the ends, then fold the ends on top of the salmon. Flip the puff pastry-wrapped salmon over and transfer for a baking sheet lined with parchment paper if you have it. Brush the beaten egg on the top and sides of the pastry. If you feel fancy, score the top of the pastry with a knife, cutting shallow diagonal lines to create a crosshatch pattern, but do not cut through. You need the pastry to be sealed with no holes if possible. Brush the top again with the egg wash. Place on middle rack of the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until pastry is golden brown. I love to make this with a warm lemon dill sauce on the side, roasted potatoes and a Greek salad.
Sponsor: Walking with Purpose Walking with Purpose publishes Catholic Bible studies that help women and girls open their hearts to Christ. One of the most personal and transformative studies from WWP is Fearless and Free, an 11-lesson study on healing and wholeness, based on Ephesians. Fearless and Free helps you identify the lies that mess with your identity, and to replace them with the truth of Scripture. You’ll discover how to get a grip on your thoughts and develop emotionally healthy habits. This is an invitation to bring your tangled, complex heart into an encounter with God’s healing touch. Learn more at http://wwp.today/fearless. Click here to enter to WIN a copy of the Walking with Purpose Bible study Fearless and Free!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Proverbs 31:30-31 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; |
May 11, 2020 |
S07 Episode 16: Seized by Beauty (with Bishop Robert Barron)
40:29
Seized by Beauty (with Bishop Robert Barron) In this episode, we have the distinct pleasure of having Bishop Robert Barron as our guest. We talk about everything from how he takes his coffee to experiences of beauty that lift us beyond the natural to a transcendent encounter with God. We also discuss how to engage with the culture and extract what is good, true, and beautiful, so that we can not only relate, but be relevant in our mission of evangelization. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Friends of the Bridegroom: For a Renewed Vision of Priestly Celibacy by Marc Cardinal Oullet (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK)
Additional Resources: Civilisation - Kenneth Clark (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man - James Joyce (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK) Meeting with Artists - Pope Benedict XVI Heather Khym will be a featured speaker at the TOB Virtual Conference, happening free online May 8-10! Register today to get a Premium Pass and have access to the talks after the conference is over. Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - The truly beautiful doesn't submit to our little whims and our little preferences. The truly beautiful stops you in your tracks and seizes you and takes control of you and doesn't let you go. - Bishop Robert Barron |
May 04, 2020 |
S07 Episode 15: Living in the Light of Victory (with Fr. Justin Brady)
47:19
Living in the Light of Victory (with Fr. Justin Brady) In this episode we have brought back special guest Fr. Justin Brady to talk about how to live in the victory of the resurrection. Fr. Justin is a priest and exorcist and shares some wonderful insights into how to live from a place of friendship with God and find victory in our relationship with Jesus as friend and savior. We also discuss aligning our hearts with the truth of who we are in light of God’s merciful love.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - The garden
Michelle’s one thing - Beautiful weather! (and walks) Heather’s one thing - The best sticky buns ever. These sticky buns are amazing! The recipe is from our local bakery Duft and Co. It's a commitment of time, but so worth it. Would love to see a photo of these in our facebook group if you make them. Here are photos from when my son made them.
To watch the tutorial click here. For the dough 3 3/4 cup Flour Mix dry yeast, 2 tbsp of sugar and 2 tbsp of lukewarm water in a small bowl. Let sit to bloom for 10 minutes. Using your stand mixer and dough hook, mix all dry ingredients until combined, then add all of the remaining ingredients including the yeast mixture. Mix on medium speed for 7 minutes, and a smooth dough forms. Put your dough in an oiled bowl and cover with cling film or a tea towel, and leave to proof for 1 - 2 hours (until doubled in size) in a warm area. After it has risen, make your caramel. Sticky Bun Caramel (goes in the bottom of the glass baking dish before the rolls go in) 3 tbsp Cream Bring all ingredients to a boil over medium heat. Boil for 2 minutes while stirring continuously. After 2 minutes, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before using. Then pour into the bottom of your glass baking dish Sticky Bun Filling (goes on top of the dough before you roll it) 1/3 cup Butter (melted and cooled slightly) After the dough has risen, place it on a lightly floured large cutting board or counter. It's pretty soft dough, so add a bit of flour on top. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a rectangle, about 3/4inch thick. approximately 2 hands high x 3 hands wide. Pour melted/cooled butter over the dough completely. Keep the top inch with only butter for sealing the roll later. Sprinkle white sugar over it all, then the brown sugar, then sprinkle very generously with cinnamon and press it down gently all over. Start rolling the dough along the long side, the buttered inch should be at the top and rolled last. Roll it tightly, by pulling the dough slightly toward you as you roll. Get a serrated knife and cut the ends off, not needed. Cut the roll dough in half, then each of those pieces into half, then each of those pieces into thirds. Place rolls on top of the caramel mixture in your glass dish, 4x3. Cover with plastic wrap and let this sit for 1 hour. Then bake at 350F for approx 30 - 40 mins. Take them out of the oven and let them cool for about 20 minutes, then flip them out onto a cookie sheet or large cutting board with parchment for easy clean up. Fr. Justin’s one thing - (Besides The Mustache) The Communio I’ve experienced in isolation
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - "No one, however weak, is denied a share in the victory of the cross. No one is beyond the help of the prayer of Christ." —St. Pope Leo the Great
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Apr 27, 2020 |
S07 Episode 14: Reflections on Pope Francis' Easter Message
35:52
Pope Francis’ Easter Message In this episode we talk about Pope Francis’s Easter homily. We discuss the themes of not being paralyzed in the midst of fear, overcoming self protection, the power in choosing to do the next right thing, and practicing resurrection in our lives. Small acts of love and receiving the gift of hope can be the game changers we need in this season.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Heather Khym’s playlist, “Hallelujah is our Song” Michelle’s one thing - The series The Chosen (Watch the trailer) Heather’s one thing - Stephanie Gretzinger’s new song, “Center of all History”. The song “Peace” by Bethel
The text of Pope Francis’ Easter Vigil Homily
Discussion questions:
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 28:1-7 When the sabbath was over, |
Apr 20, 2020 |
S07 Episode 13: Divine Mercy
39:27
Divine Mercy In this episode we talk about the incredible gift of Divine Mercy! We talk a little bit about St. Faustina and our Lord’s revelations to her about his ocean of mercy. We also discuss what a lack of trust looks like and what the stumbling blocks are to trusting in the heart of Jesus. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tacos! Michelle’s one thing - The Diary of St. Faustina (links below) Heather’s one thing - The Be Not Afraid Conference from Stacey Sumereau
Resources: Purchase The Diary of St. Faustina via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “There is nothing more man needs than Divine Mercy – that love which is benevolent, which is compassionate, which raises man above his weakness to the infinite heights to the holiness of God.” - St. John Paul II |
Apr 13, 2020 |
S07 Episode 12: Holy Week- The Stations of the Cross
34:14
Holy Week: The Stations of the Cross In this episode we decided to pray through the Stations of the Cross, found in St. Faustina’s Diary. During Holy Week, we wanted to take this opportunity to quiet our hearts and reflect on our Lord’s suffering and death, so we can enter in more fully. We hope that you will use this as a prayer resource and pray with your families or on your own. Sponsor: The Hallow app Hallow is a Catholic prayer and meditation app that helps us deepen our relationship with Christ through 5-30 minute, audio-guided contemplative prayer sessions. Think Headspace or Calm, but authentically Catholic. The app includes everything from Lectio Divina on the daily Gospel, to the Rosary, to daily Examens, to meditations focused on preparing for bed in the evening (including Night Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours), to minute meditations for moments of temptation or thanks, and much more. In the app, you'll find a session focused on spiritual communion for the many separated from physical Mass during a time of crisis, as well as praylists for a variety of spiritual needs, like being "Stuck at Home", or seeking patience or healing. Hallow currently offers daily Lenten meditations, and is currently producing meditations for Palm Sunday and the Easter Triduum. You'll find lectio divina with Mass readings, Spiritual Communion, Holy Hours, chant, and more. Get an extended free trial of the app for 3 months! using promo code: Abide
Resources St Faustina’s Way of the Cross
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Do not be afraid of sufferings; I am with you.” - The Diary of St. Faustina (151) Scripture for Lectio Divina - “Then he came to the disciples and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, “So, could you not stay awake with me one hour?” Mt 26:40 |
Apr 06, 2020 |
S07 Episode 11: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 6 - Epilogue: Living the Painting
44:14
Epilogue: Living the Painting In this episode we finish up our 6 part series on the book The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about “Living the Painting”. We talk about how much of our healing happens in the context of community and relationship. We also discuss the process of bringing home parts of ourselves that live far away from God. Each of us have places that need to be welcomed home and as we heal, we are able to offer a home coming to the lost places in others.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Unbreakable Heart by JJ Heller Michelle’s one thing - Mother by JJ Heller, The Greenhouse Collective, and my really big keychain! Heather’s one thing - You Alone by Lauren Daigle
Sponsor: Monk Manual The Monk Manual 90 Day planner is inspired by monks, backed by science, and made for busy women like you. Progress isn’t always gained through new methods and ideas. Sometimes it’s in rediscovering the time-tested and proven methods of the past. Today, science proves that habits practiced by monks lead to human flourishing and wellbeing. The Monk Manual is built off the idea that Monks are the most productive people in the world. Monks know that productivity isn’t about doing more things, it’s about doing the most important things well. As foreign as the way of a monk may seem, it turns out to be a highly practical path to a fulfilled life. The Monk Manual helps you bring the way of the monk into your daily life by focusing you on the most important things so you can live each moment with greater purpose, productivity, and presence. Whereas most planners emphasize doing, the Monk Manual is designed to help you grow in both being and doing every day. The daily, weekly, and monthly pages each serve a specific purpose to help you: - Focus on the truly most important things. For 20% off your purchase of Monk Manual, use promo code: together
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. With this episode, we’re wrapping up, but you can do this book study any time! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a journal and a mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created especially for this Lenten book study.
This is the Be Not Afraid Conference! Sister Miriam, Heather, and Michelle are three of the amazing speakers who are giving talks and reflections. Sign up today! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Everything in me yearned to be received in the way the prodigal son was received. That encounter turned out to be the beginning of my own return.” - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son |
Mar 30, 2020 |
S07 Episode 10: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 5 - Becoming the Father
38:32
Becoming the Father In this episode, we continue with Part 5 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and discuss “Becoming the Father”. Many of us have heard the invitation to live as daughters and sons of God, but most of us haven’t heard the invitation to become the father/mother. We will always be children of God, but we are simultaneously invited to mature into becoming a spiritual mother and father, providing, comforting, nurturing others in selfless ways. We also discuss how God wants to heal our idea of who He is and the places we didn’t get what we need so that we can be a more pure example of His love for others.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Heart: An Analysis of Human and Divine Affectivity by Dietrich von Hildebrand (Link for Canada. Link for UK.) Michelle’s one thing - True Devotion to the Holy Spirit by Archbishop Luis Martinez (Link for Canada. Link for UK.), Shannon from ChewsLife Heather’s one thing - My new Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify. Floodgates by The Sations Additional Resources Heather loves you, so she made a playlist for you! This is to help accompany you in your prayer with the book study - Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify.
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study!
An online conference for all those who are anxious, afraid, bored, spiritually starving, or isolated. An opportunity to turn isolation into a fruitful retreat. Building deeper trust in God instead of a Netflix binge. A chance to grow spiritually this Lent, even for those without Mass. Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - "Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate." - Henri Nouwen |
Mar 23, 2020 |
S07 Episode 9: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 4 - The Father
38:15
The Father In this episode, we continue with Part 4 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son and talk about God the Father. We discuss the failure of earthly and spiritual fathers and how God wants to restore our understanding of His fatherhood. We also talk about the mercy of the Father, the invitation to receive His blessing, and how the Father's heart burns for us to come home to Him. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Come Out of Hiding - Stephanie Gretzinger and Celebrate Me Home - Kenny Loggins Michelle’s one thing - Marie Miller’s New Album - Little Dreams (Watch the video here!) and the Mother Teresa sticker from @redeemed_free Heather’s one thing - Family and community
(And hey, Louisiana!!) Sponsor: ChewsLife The mission of Chews Life is to equip all Catholics with the Rosary for life! They create beautiful and practical rosaries with unique features to bring the rosary into your daily life. Chews Life silicone and gemstone products are dreamed, designed, and made by a team of amazing Catholic mamas in West Michigan, USA. The rosary will save the world. Check out some Chews Life rosaries! Use code “AbidingTogether10” for a 10% discount! Additional Resources Heather loves you, so she made a playlist for you! Return to the Father's Love playlist on Spotify.
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “As Rembrandt approached death, he chose to portray a very still Father who recognizes his son not with the eyes of the body, but with the inner eye of his heart.” - Henri Nouwen
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Mar 16, 2020 |
S07 Episode 8: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 3 - The Elder Son
36:08
The Elder Son In this episode we continue with Part 3 "The Elder Son", from our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We discuss how the elder son is also lost and in need of a homecoming because in his heart, he too is far away from the father. The struggles of the elder son are within all of us when we compare, feel like we are owed something, consider ourselves worthy because of our religious actions or adherence to the rules, and when we resist the loving embrace of God the Father.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Prenatal Development video Michelle’s one thing - Auburn’s men’s basketball Heather’s one thing - Our Quit Talking to the Dang Snake mug! Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.)
The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Joy and resentment cannot coexist.” - Henri Nouwen |
Mar 09, 2020 |
S07 Episode 7: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 2 - The Younger Son
42:26
The Younger Son In this episode we continue with Part 2 of our book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. We talk about the places within ourselves that, like the younger son, are living in a distant land, far from the love of God the Father. We discuss how often we search for unconditional love outside of God and are left heartbroken. We long to hear His voice speak healing to our souls that we are His beloved on whom His favor rests.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Joan of Arc Michelle’s one thing - Ruah Storytellers podcast Heather’s one thing - Patreon patrons and our listeners around the world!
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us - we're just getting started! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.)
The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Home is the center of my being where I can hear the voice that says: ‘You are my Beloved, on you my favor rests.’” - Henri Nouwen |
Mar 02, 2020 |
S07 Episode 6: The Return of the Prodigal Son Book Study Part 1 - The Story of Two Sons and Their Father
39:01
The Story of Two Sons and Their Father In this episode, we kick off our 6-part Lenten book study on The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen, beginning with the Prologue and Introduction. We chat about our identity as children of God, the mercy of the Father, and how God uses art and beauty to speak to us. We explore the idea of home and a homecoming, which speaks of our deep desire for heaven. We also talk about how often fear and self protection keeps us from experiencing the healing love of the Father.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Dentists! The unsung heroes. Michelle’s one thing - The Instagram accounts @OodsofGlutes (from Allie at @Oodlesofdoodles) and @Oodsofflutes Heather’s one thing - Ruth Stricklin from New Jerusalem Studios
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study is The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. You can still join us - we're just getting started! Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.)
The Abiding Together shop has new items! We have a new journal and a new mug inspired by Henri Nouwen, created just for this Lenten book study! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “‘Coming home’ meant, for me, walking step by step toward the One who awaits me with open arms and wants to hold me in an eternal embrace.” - Henri Nouwen |
Feb 24, 2020 |
S07 Episode 5: The Power of Holy Hour with Fr. Josh Johnson
37:49
The Power of Holy Hour In this episode we have our dear friend Fr. Josh Johnson back on the podcast to discuss how to have a fruitful Holy Hour. Through his humor and reflections, Fr. Josh shares practical tools as well spiritual insights about how to pray in silence and grow in intimacy with Jesus.
Fr. Josh’s one thing - The Liturgy of the Hours Sister Miriam’s one thing - Calming Christian playlist on Spotify Michelle’s one thing - Priscilla at The Little Catholic shop Heather’s one thing - The movie The Peanut Butter Falcon
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic shop. The main objective of The Little Catholic shop is to evangelize through beauty. The medals are handmade in Southern California. Beauty has a powerful ability to draw people to the Church, whether it be the sound of prayers, the beautiful stained glass windows of a church, or the kindness of another person. The Little Catholic Shop wants to provide the kind of beauty that heals to each person who sees or wears their pieces. Use promo code Abide15 for 15% off the store.
Additional Resources The Pocket Guide to Adoration by Fr. Josh Johnson. Listeners in Canada, shop here. Listeners in the UK, shop here.
The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the “Quit talking to the dang snake” mug! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - "Spend one hour each day in adoration of your Lord. Never do anything you know is wrong. Follow this and you'll be fine." ― St. Teresa of Calcutta to Henri Nouwen |
Feb 17, 2020 |
S07 Episode 4: Gathering People
37:58
Gathering People In this episode we discuss how to gather people and lead a fruitful discussion. We are meant to live in community and have depth and joy in our relationships, but sometimes we don’t know where to start or how to go deeper. We chat about how to have meaningful conversations and live in an open-hearted way with others. We also discuss lots of practicals and how to grow in the gift of hospitality. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Bridegroom by Rivers and Robots Michelle’s one thing - my husband Chris Heather’s one thing - The Ungame Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Little Catholic shop. The main objective of The Little Catholic shop is to evangelize through beauty.
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the “quit talking to the dang snake” mug! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “We have all known the long loneliness and we have learned that the only solution is love and that love comes with community.” ― Dorothy Day
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Feb 10, 2020 |
S07 Episode 3: Made for Mission (from the FOCUS SLS Conference)
58:46
Made For Mission - Recorded Live from FOCUS SLS Conference This week is a special episode of Abiding Together that we recorded in front of a live audience at the FOCUS SLS conference in Phoenix, Arizona. This episode is packed full of wisdom, inspiration, and a challenge to personal holiness. We chat about leadership, mission, making a whole hearted yes, regaining your voice, falling in love with Jesus, and living an unmasked life.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - all of our listeners live at SLS! Michelle’s one thing - SLS and Curtis Martin’s “Yes”, and all the great apostolates out there. Heather’s one thing - Like a Fire by Sean Feucht & Steffany Gretzinger and the movie Little Women
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by The Given Institute. Learn more about the 2020 GIVEN Catholic Young Women's Leadership Forum taking place June 10-14, 2020 in Washington, D.C. at the Catholic University of America! The GIVEN Forum provides leadership training, faith formation, and mentoring to young adult Catholic women, ages 21-30, with a heart for mission and an aptitude for leadership. It is designed to help them identify their particular gifts and find practical pathways to put them in the service of the Gospel through their profession or vocation. Applications for young adults are now open! The early bird deadline is February 3, 2020 at midnight. Extended deadline for Round 2 Review, as well as for Mentor applications for lay leaders and religious sisters, is March 1, 2020. Discover the gift that only you can give, because of the gift that you are!
Announcements!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “We do not want a church that will move with the world. We want a church that will move the world.”- G.K. Chesterton Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 1:4-9
The word of the Lord came to me, saying, |
Feb 03, 2020 |
S07 Episode 2: The Barrenness of Winter
32:48
The Barrenness of Winter In this episode we talk about the barrenness of winter and how the seasons are often reflected in our spiritual and emotional lives. We explore how to have hope and perspective in times when things are hidden and dormant and how to allow our roots to go deeper into our relationship with Christ.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Trader Joe’s Michelle’s one thing - If You Want Me To by Ginny Owens Heather’s one thing - You Make Me Brave (Acoustic Version) by Josie Buchanan
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.)
The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the all new “quit talking to the dang snake” mug!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “For just as the body is clothed in its garments, and the flesh in its skin, and the bones in their flesh, and the heart in its body, so too are we, soul and body, clothed from head to foot in the goodness of God.” —Julian of Norwich, Revelations of Divine Love
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Jan 27, 2020 |
S07 Episode 1: Good Soil
37:44
Good Soil In this episode we break open the parable of the sower and the seeds. We chat about how we can cultivate good soil in our hearts where seeds can grow and bear good fruit. We also talk about the practicals of what makes up rocky ground that chokes out goodness and what makes up the fertile soil, where God can bring forth life and abundance.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Undone: Freeing Your Feminine Heart from the Knots of Fear and Shame by Carrie Schuchts Daunt Michelle’s one thing - Higher Love - Kygo, Whitney Houston Heather’s one thing - The team building my house from Tundra Developments
Announcements! The Abiding Together Lenten Book Study will be The Return of the Prodigal Son by Henri Nouwen. Purchase the book via US Amazon Link, a Canada Amazon link, and a UK Amazon link. (As an Amazon Associate, Abiding Together earns from qualifying Amazon purchases.) The Abiding Together shop is open! Take a peek at some of the fun new things we have for you, including the all new “quit talking to the dang snake” mug!
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty. Their mission is to create a transformative experience of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Pilgrimage to Beauty believes that traversing the world, cultures and even our own street can teach us so much. Gaining knowledge of other peoples and lands gives us a genuine curiosity to learn and experience even more of what the world has to offer. Their aim is to give you a unique once in a lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Their next trip is to Guatemala in March 2020, so check it out quickly!
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Quote to Ponder - “Learn the lesson that, if you are to do the work of a prophet, what you need is not a sceptre but a hoe.” ― St. Bernard of Clairvaux
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 13: The Parable of the Sower That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat by the lake. Such large crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat in it, while all the people stood on the shore. Then he told them many things in parables, saying: “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Whoever has ears, let them hear.” The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?” He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. This is why I speak to them in parables: “Though seeing, they do not see; though hearing, they do not hear or understand. In them is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah: ‘You will be ever hearing but never understanding; you will be ever seeing but never perceiving. For this people’s heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.’ But blessed are your eyes because they see, and your ears because they hear. For truly I tell you, many prophets and righteous people longed to see what you see but did not see it, and to hear what you hear but did not hear it. “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path. The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” |
Jan 20, 2020 |
S06 Episode 18: Repost - Striving vs. Abiding
38:37
Repost: Striving vs. Abiding We chose to repost this episode from Season 1 because it is a message at the heart of the Abiding Together Podcast. Many of us live a life of striving and struggle, rather than accepting the invitation of abiding and trust. We take time to reflect on the scripture John 15:4-5, where Jesus invites us to abide in His love. We also chat about how we can recognize the pitfalls of striving and how to learn to trust that God is a good Father.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Daring Greatly by Brene Brown Michelle’s one thing - the movie Hidden Figures Heather’s one thing - signs from The House of Belonging Additional Resources:
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pilgrimage to Beauty. Their mission is to create a transformative experience of true rest and retreat, for couples or individuals wired for adventure. Pilgrimage to Beauty believes that traversing the world, cultures and even our own street can teach us so much. Gaining knowledge of other peoples and lands gives us a genuine curiosity to learn and experience even more of what the world has to offer. Their aim is to give you a unique once in a lifetime experience that transforms and renews your spirit, no matter your vocation or state in life. Their next trip is to Guatemala in March 2020, so check it out quickly!
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - This self-reliance was what destroyed me. - St. Teresa of Avila Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 15:4-5: Abide in me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing. |
Jan 13, 2020 |
S06 Episode 17: Word of the Year
35:30
Word of the Year In this episode we reveal and discuss our word of the year. A few years ago, we each began the practice of praying and listening for the Lord to give us one word to focus on for the new year. It’s an opportunity to dive in to what God is speaking in our individual lives and respond in intentional ways.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Love Come To Life - Melissa Helser & Molly Skaggs Michelle’s one thing - Divine Romance - Phil Wickman, Jill Simons at Pink Salt Riot Heather’s one thing - Every Sacred Sunday
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot. Check out their jewelry, print pieces, gifts, and more! Order your own custom Word of the Year pieces to keep a personal reminder close to you every day. Definitely also check out the quarterly subscription box, The Joy Box, which is designed for sharing. Abiding Together listeners get 10% off the whole shop (including quarterly subscriptions, excluding yearly subscriptions) with code: abidewithme
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Quote to Ponder - “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.― Saint Mother Teresa Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 43:19: Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. |
Dec 30, 2019 |
S06 Episode 16: The Good News
44:33
The Good News In this episode, the fourth part of our Advent series, we interview our friend Sarah Kaczmarek. Sarah is the Assistant Director of Alpha Catholic USA, as well as the Pastoral Director of Encounter School of Ministry. We chat about the call we have as Catholics to share the Good News of the Gospel and the stumbling blocks we often run into. We also discuss how essential it is to be an authentic witness and how to grow in having the Father's heart for the lost.
Sarah’s one thing - Whole Heart - Hillsong United Sister Miriam’s one thing - Winter Snow by Audrey Assad Michelle’s one thing - The song Into the Unknown from Frozen 2 Heather’s one thing - The song Noel by Lauren Daigle
Additional Notes: Abiding Together will be at Focus SLS2020! Abiding Together Podcast will be recording live at SLS on December 31st at 12:30pm. Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “This is our mission: to give pure and fresh air to those immersed in the pollution of our world; to bring to earth that peace which fills us with joy whenever we meet Jesus on the mountain in prayer; to show by our lives, and perhaps even by our words, that God loves everyone and never tires of anyone” Pope Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 61:1 “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, |
Dec 23, 2019 |
S06 Episode 15: He's in the Waiting
42:31
He’s in the Waiting In this episode, the third part of our Advent series, we interview our friend Beth Davis from Blessed is She. We talk about the theme of having hope in seasons of waiting, trusting God when we can't see what He's up to, and being transformed by the renewal of our minds.
Beth’s one thing - Consecration to Jesus through St. Joseph: An Integrated Look At the Holy Family by Dr. Gregory Bottaro and Jennifer Settle Sister Miriam’s one thing - A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (trailer) Michelle’s one thing - The Auburn vs. Alabama game. Heather’s one thing - The song Shepherd by Bethel.
Additional Resources: You can find more information about Beth Davis and Blessed is She at https://blessedisshe.net Abiding Together will be at Focus SLS2020! Abiding Together Podcast will be recording live on December 31st at 12:30pm The Abiding Together shop will be closed from Dec 13th-Jan 1.
Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Pink Salt Riot. Check out their jewelry, print pieces, gifts, and more! Definitely also check out the quarterly subscription box, The Joy Box, which is designed for sharing. Keep an eye out for custom Word of the Year pieces starting Dec 28th. Abiding Together listeners get 10% off the whole shop (including quarterly subscriptions, excluding ) with code: abidewithme
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “People are made for happiness. Rightly, then, you thirst for happiness. Christ has the answer to this desire of yours. But he asks you to trust him.” Pope Saint John Paul II
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 27:14 “Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!”
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Dec 16, 2019 |
S06 Episode 14: Making Room for Others
46:01
Making Room for Others In the second part of our Advent series, we interview Ennie Hickman, our good friend and founder of Del Rey Collective. We talk in depth about what it means to actually love our neighbor and how to make “room at the inn” for strangers and people in the periphery of our lives. We also talk about hospitality and making our hearts ready for guests before making our homes ready.
Ennie’s one thing - The Wingfeather Saga by Andrew Peterson Sister Miriam’s one thing - Silicone Tea Cover Michelle’s one thing - Easy White Chicken Chili Heather’s one thing - Heather's Mom's Coconut Jam Tarts Ingredients: Instructions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a bowl combine sugar, cornstarch and salt. In a separate bowl beat eggs, then add combined sugar, cornstarch and salt. Add cooled melted butter, lemon juice and vanilla. Stir in coconut. Add approximately 1/2 tsp (or a bit more) of raspberry jam to the middle of the frozen tart shell, then cover till 3/4 full with coconut mixture. Fill all the tarts like this. Bake at 375 for about 23 minutes or until golden brown on top. Eat, enjoy, and try not to be swept away in ecstasy.
Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder - "I want you to be concerned about your next door neighbor. Do you know your next door neighbor?" - Saint Mother Teresa
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 25:35 “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me.” |
Dec 09, 2019 |
S06 Episode 13: The Light Shines in the Darkness
45:53
The Light Shines in the Darkness In this episode we have a fascinating interview with Fr. Justin Brady, priest and exorcist. We talk about the battle between the light and the dark and how the enemy attempts to keep us far from God. We often forget that God has won the battle and has given us all that we need through the sacrifice of Jesus and the ministry of the Church to overcome darkness in our lives and experience healing and peace.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Peaceful Christmas playlist Michelle’s one thing - Adorning the Dark by Andrew Peterson On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness (The Wingfeather Saga) by Andrew Peterson Heather’s one thing - Advent playlist on Spotify and the music video Refiner by Maverick City Music Fr. Justin’s one thing - Heather Khym
Additional Resources: Go on pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Fr. Justin Brady and Christopher West! Get your Quit Talking to the Dang Snake mug from our Abiding Together Shop! Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - There is light in this world, a healing spirit more powerful than any darkness we may encounter. - Saint Mother Teresa
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Dec 02, 2019 |
S06 Episode 12: Gratitude
32:53
Gratitude In this episode we talk about the power of gratitude and how it can dramatically change our perspectives and transform our experience of the world. Gratitude helps us to change the focus from ourselves or the things we don't have to a heart that is thankful, humble and open to all the good things God is blessing us with. The truth is that if we can worship and give thanks to God in the midst of trials, it can spiritually break through bitterness and birth a new hope.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - My SOLT community! Our website Michelle’s one thing - For the Greenhouse Girls, my kids, and my husband Heather’s one thing - Heather's Carrot Cake Ingredients 4 eggs Cream Cheese Frosting 8oz cream cheese Instructions In separate bowl mix eggs, oil, and sugar - mix well. Add grated carrots and pureed pineapple. Add sifted dry ingredients and use electric mixer until combined. Do not overmix. Pour into a greased and floured 13 x 9 inch glass pyrex dish. Bake at 350 degrees for about 40 minutes. Done when toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely and then frost with cream cheese frosting. Other Things Even When it Hurts by Hillsong United A Thousand Gifts by Ann Voskamp Use code ABIDE25 for 25% off on the Abiding Together Shop from Black Friday through Cyber Monday! Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder - Jesus does not demand great action from us, but simply surrender and gratitude.” - St. Thérèse of Lisieux
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Nov 25, 2019 |
S06 Episode 11: The Gift of Wonder
34:23
The Gift of Wonder In this episode we discuss the importance of having a sense of wonder in our lives. Too often we get so focused on the tasks and pressures of life that we miss the moments that God is revealing His majesty and beauty to us in personal ways. It is these moments that keep our hearts aware of the greater things, that we are made for heaven and that our lives are held in the capable hands of a God who wants to show His great love for us.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Breakfast of champions! Oatmeal recipe: Eat and then stay full for the next 5 hours or so!!! Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum Heather’s one thing - All of our patrons on Patreon!
Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder - Wonder is the characteristic feature of children. An old man is no longer astonished by anything, no longer enchanted by anything.... The inability to wonder is the sign of a civilization that is dying. - Cardinal Sarah Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 72:18-19 Blessed be the Lord God, the God of Israel, who alone works wonders. And blessed be His glorious name forever; and may the whole earth be filled with His glory. Amen and Amen. |
Nov 18, 2019 |
S06 Episode 10: The Holy Spirit - We are Family Series Part 3
38:34
The Holy Spirit - We are Family Series Part 3 In this episode we wrap up our 3-part series on the Trinity with the Holy Spirit. We talk about how the Holy Spirit is the love between the Father and the Son and is our Advocate and Comforter. We are invited into a dynamic relationship with the Person of the Holy Spirit, Who desires to empower, strengthen, guide, and comfort us in personal ways. We also chat about the invitation to let go of our misconceptions about who the Holy Spirit is so we can experience who He really is. When we give Him full access, like Mary did, we grow in sensitivity to His movements and can operate in the power of God in new ways. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Toy Story 4 Michelle’s one thing - Blessed Is She Advent Journal Heather’s one thing - Banana bread recipe Makes 2 loaves. 1 cup butter softened (250 mL) Instructions Preheat oven to 350°F. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add bananas and eggs and beat until well mixed. Mix dry ingredients in separate bowl and gradually blend with banana mixture, but do not overmix. Pour into two lightly greased loaf pans or a 10-inch (25 cm) Bundt pan. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes; test for doneness (toothpick inserted in middle comes out clean) and cool on a rack for 10 minutes before removing from pans. Freezes beautifully. (adjusted from Best of Bridge)
Check out the Flannery O’Connor mugs from Meaningful Market! Some suggestions if you want to start reading Flannery O'Connor!
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen, to console. - St. Cyril of Jerusalem Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 14:16-17 “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to help you and be with you forever – the Spirit of truth”. |
Nov 11, 2019 |
S06 Episode 9: Jesus - We are Family Series Part 2
34:54
We Are Family: Jesus the Son In this episode we talk about Jesus Christ as the one who brings us into intimacy with himself. We find in him the one to whom our hearts belong, who brings healing and restores hearts. We talk about who Jesus is to us and how to grow in relationship with him.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Bible Study on Romans by Dr. Andrew Swafford and Jeff Cavins Michelle’s one thing - Amazon Greenhouse Storefront LinkOasis Song by Kalley Heather’s one thing - See the Light - Hillsong Worship
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Quote to Ponder - "It is Jesus that you seek when you dream of happiness; He is waiting for you when nothing else you find satisfies you." - Saint Pope John Paul II
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Nov 04, 2019 |
S06 Episode 8: God the Father - We are Family Series Part 1
41:51
We Are Family: God the Father With this episode we start a 3-part series on the persons of the Trinity. This week, we talk about God as Father and what it means that he cares for us as a Father. It is through connecting to how the Father sees us that we will discover the truth of who we are, especially in the profound reality that God sees us through the lens of love.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Request for prayers for an upcoming trip to the Philippines where I will be leading a retreat for our sisters there. Michelle’s one thing - The women at the Blessed is She Shine Retreat in Baltimore. Also, Awake My Soul from Hillsong Heather’s one thing - My Acoustic Worship Spotify Playlist
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - 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
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 8:14-17 "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him, we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." |
Oct 28, 2019 |
S06 Episode 7: The Power of Scripture
30:06
The Power of Scripture In this episode we talk about the power of scripture, the Word of God. It is through delving into the Word of God that we encounter the heart of God, we find out who we are, and we proclaim the truth of who He is. We talk about scriptures that have impacted us and new scripture cards you can buy in our new shop.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - All of our listeners in Ireland! Michelle’s one thing - Morning walks with my husband. Also the book “Live Big, Love Bigger” by Kathryn Whitaker Heather’s one thing - The song “Heart of God” - by Hillsong Young and Free
Purchase our Abiding Together Scripture Cards
Extra Resources Walking with Purpose Bible Studies Jeff Cavins Bible Timeline Andrew Swafford bible study on the book of Romans
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Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - In Sacred Scripture, the Church constantly finds her nourishment and her strength, for she welcomes it not as a human word, "but as what it really is, the word of God". "In the sacred books, the Father who is in heaven comes lovingly to meet his children, and talks with them." - Catechism of the Catholic Church #104
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Oct 21, 2019 |
S06 Episode 6: Renewal of Religious Life: Interview with Fr. John Burns
49:16
Renewal of Religious Life - Interview with Fr. John Burns In this episode we talk with Fr. John Burns about the importance of the renewal of religious life as a huge part of how the Church will heal and be restored. We discuss how important it is for us to have a visible sign of a religious sister who lives her vocation as the bride of Christ and shows us that our hearts are made for God. We also discuss vocation as a calling to love and how restored femininity and masculinity is essential for fully living our calling.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Fall Feels Playlist Michelle’s one thing - Awakening Love- An Ignatian Retreat with the Song of Songs - Gregory Cleveland, OMV Heather’s one thing - Brandt Jean forgives his brother’s killer and invites her into relationship with Christ. Fr. John’s one thing - The gift of shared ministry at parish mission with Sr. Miriam
Extra Resources Pope Francis’ Homily (the end of the doc on brideship) -
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “there is nothing a woman cannot do when she knows that she is perfectly understood at all times and that she is loved” - Mother Mary Francis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Revelation 22:17 “The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.” |
Oct 14, 2019 |
S06 Episode 5: Eucharistic Amazement: May We Never Lose Our Wonder
32:31
Eucharist Amazement: May We Never Lose Our Wonder In this episode we talk about the new pew report that shows only ⅓ of American Catholics believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. We share about how we need to renew Eucharistic amazement in tangible ways and share our own experiences of the power of the Eucharist in our lives. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Homesick Candle Heather sent to me for my birthday. Michelle’s one thing - A new worship playlist called Crossing Over Heather’s one thing - My teenagers, I love them so much!
Extra Resources Ecclesia De Eucharistia by Pope John Paul II Link to Lanciano miracle http://www.therealpresence.org/eucharst/mir/lanciano.html
Discussion questions:
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Quote to Ponder - “I would like to rekindle this Eucharistic “amazement”- Saint John Paul II
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Oct 07, 2019 |
S06 Episode 4: How to Accompany Someone Through A Hard Season
32:13
How to Accompany Someone Through A Hard Season In this episode we talk about how to journey with each other through hardships and offer the powerful gift of presence. Walking through suffering with each other is sacred ground, so we need to learn how to become a compassionate presence and honor the vulnerability in others, while also being vulnerable ourselves. We talk about how to discern what we are able to offer to others and how we need to ask the Holy Spirit how to respond instead of falling into codependency or taking on the problems of others.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - Surrender Prayer God, my Father, I thank you for all that you are, and all that you do for me through your son Jesus Christ. I praise you for my life, for your mercy and for your Eucharist. In Jesus’ name, Father, I place myself entirely in your Heart. I surrender to you my whole self, my heart, my mind, my memory, my imagination, my will, my emotions, my passions, my desires, my body, my sexuality, my desire for human approval, my weaknesses, my sins. I surrender every person in my life to you. I surrender every situation in my life to you. I surrender every relationship I am in to you. I surrender every concern I have to you. I surrender every fear I have to you. I surrender every doubt I have to you. I surrender all confusion I have to you. I surrender all sadness I am experiencing in my heart to you. I surrender all my wounds to you. I surrender all anxiety and worry I have to you. I surrender all that deceives me in my heart to you. I trust you to care for me and others in a perfectly loving way. As I have emptied myself, and surrendered everything to you, I ask you now, Father, to fill me with your Holy Spirit and all the gifts and fruits of your Spirit. Holy Spirit you are the source of love, hope, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, tenderness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. Purify my desires. Help me to open my heart to you. Help me to become perfectly receptive as a pure child. Help me to believe in your love for me. Help me to hope in your love. Help me to receive from the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus all grace and virtues necessary for me to become the person you created me to be. I ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ, Your son, God Almighty Father. O Most Holy Immaculate Virgin Mary. I entrust this prayer to your Heart, and ask you to press it to your sorrowful and immaculate heart and intercede for me to your Son Jesus. Please help me to be as you are, a loving disciple, an obedient servant, a true child of God. Amen. Michelle’s one thing - A new St. Therese shirt design “I Choose All” and story card from Michelle’s Meaningful Market store. It comes out on St. Therese’s feast day October 1. Enjoy 15% off with code - ABIDE15 Heather’s one thing - Hannah Van Noort, Heidi Bouwman, and Lisa Marquis for their work behind the scenes at our men’s retreat.
Extra Resources Evangelli Gaudium Section on Accompaniment #169-173
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “I am struck by how sharing our weakness and difficulties is more nourishing to others than sharing our qualities and successes.” - Jean Vanier
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Sep 30, 2019 |
S06 Episode 3: I Choose You
37:40
I Choose You In this episode we talk about the beautiful words of Jesus in John 15:16 where he tells us that He has chosen us and that his desire is that we bear fruit that will last. It’s the deepest desires of every heart to be known, to be chosen, and to belong, but often we don’t believe the truth of our belovedness in the core of our being. We chat about the difference between fruit that lasts and success and how being rooted deeply in Jesus is essential for good fruit in our life. Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Song by NEEDTOBREATHE “A Place Only You Can Go”
Michelle’s one thing - The most wonderful time of the year...College Football is back!
Heather’s one thing - The first class relic of St. Therese the Little Flower, sent to me by Fr. Josh Johnson. You can also check out his podcast Ask Fr. Josh
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder - “Let's remind one another that what brings true and healing joy is not successfulness, but fruitfulness" - Henri Nouwen
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Sep 23, 2019 |
S06 Episode 2: Words Have Power
34:43
Words Have Power In this episode we talk about how words have incredible power to either bless or curse, to build up or tear down. We talk about how social media can be a place of connection, but also a place where we quickly forget to treat people with dignity. The truth that our words have power to restore, heal, be prophetic is something that can challenge us to be more discerning about how we speak and take the lead by being people who bless others.
Sister Miriam’s one thing - A gift of a handmade journal made by Magdelena. Thank you so much!
Michelle’s one thing - The Steubenville Encounter Conference in Dallas
Heather’s one thing - The podcast “Every Knee Shall Bow” on the Ascension website
Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “Do not accept anything as truth that lacks love and do not accept anything as love that lacks truth. One without the other is a destructive lie” - St Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
Scripture for Lectio Divina - Proverbs 16:24 “Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” |
Sep 16, 2019 |
S06 Episode 1: A Call to Holiness
41:19
Welcome to Season 6! To kick off our new season, we dive in deep and talk about how we are all called to live a life of holiness. We discuss that in the midst of difficulty all around us, we are called to pursue a disciplined spiritual life and live radical holiness. We also talk about the tension between accepting our weakness, but not justifying our sin. The truth is that we have to be willing to go down to the depths, so that God can truly raise us from the dead to new life. Sister Miriam’s one thing - Fr. Jacques Phillipe’s book/guided retreat “The Way of Trust and Love” Michelle’s one thing - Maverick City Music “Real Thing” Heather’s one thing - Bishop Robert Barron’s book “Letter to a Suffering Church” Discussion questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “instead of viewing your poverty as a handicap, and obstacle, accept it and welcome it as a grace” - Jesus to St. Thérèse (from The Way of Trust and Love)
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Sep 09, 2019 |
S05 Episode 25: Season 5 Wrap Up
29:43
This is our final episode of season 5! We revisit some of our favorite episodes and talk about the beautiful moments we have experienced with our community of listeners and Facebook discussion group. We also talk more about what restored femininity and masculinity looks like and our desire to see women fully live out their calling in the Church. One Thing We Love this Week
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 4:15 |
Jun 24, 2019 |
S05 Episode 24: Forgiveness
41:30
In this episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we discuss the power of living a forgiving life, especially when it comes to parenting children, and how unforgiveness in our life can keep us in bondage, and stems from a wound that needs healing. We talk about how sometimes forgiveness feels like we are letting people off the hook, instead of it being a willingness to release our grasp and open ourselves up to God's grace. One Thing We Love this Week
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 6:12 |
Jun 17, 2019 |
S05 Episode 23: The Heart of a Father - Interview with Fr. Mike Schmitz
44:26
In this episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we had the pleasure of interviewing Fr. Mike Schmitz! Fr. Mike is a wonderful speaker and evangelist, but more than that, he is a beautiful witness of what it looks like to be a spiritual father. We discuss spiritual fatherhood in the priesthood and some of the stumbling blocks in our relationship with God the Father. We also discuss what restored masculinity and the family looks like. One Thing We Love this Week Discussion Questions Journal Questions Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - 1 John 3:1 |
Jun 10, 2019 |
S05 Episode 22: The Holy Spirit with Fr. Dave Pivonka
35:11
As we approach Pentecost this week, we thought it would be awesome to re-release our conversation from last year about the Holy Spirit with our dear friend, Fr. Dave Pivonka TOR. Fr. Dave created the popular series on the Holy Spirit called “The Wild Goose” with 4PM Media and he was just named the new President of Franciscan University. We had the pleasure of hearing Fr. Dave’s story and chatted with him about how to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit and practical ways to open up to a new Pentecost in our own hearts. We were moved and inspired by this conversation and hope that you will be too. You can check out the free Wild Goose Series here. One Thing We Love This Week
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - 2 Corinthians 3:17 |
Jun 03, 2019 |
S05 Episode 21: The Art of Conversation
35:45
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather discuss how to have fruitful and authentic small group discussions that provide safety and opportunities for deep connection with others. We give insights into how to talk in a vulnerable way, how to sit at one another’s feet and listen, and what the ingredients are for meaningful conversations. We hope this offers some helpful insights for going deeper in your friendships and small faith groups with other women. One Thing We Love this Week
Discussion questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for lectio divina - Sirach 14-16 |
May 27, 2019 |
S05 Episode 20: Cultivating a Life of Prayer
34:02
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather discuss their own personal prayer lives and how it has changed through seasons and vocation. They also chat about how to develop a rhythm of prayer, cultivating spiritual disciplines, and how to pray with your spouse. One Thing We Love this Week
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 29:12 |
May 20, 2019 |
S05 Episode 19: Restoring the Beauty Recap
45:34
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather recap their conference on restoring the beauty with special guest Fr. Josh Johnson. We talk about the four themes of our weekend and how this applies to all of us at every stage in our spiritual journey. We also discuss what it looks like to have restored hearts, femininity, hope, relationships. One Thing We Love this Week
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - Lamentations 5:21 |
May 13, 2019 |
S05 Episode 18: The Heart of a Mother
32:42
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about the gift and calling of motherhood. Whether it be biological or spiritual motherhood, every woman is called to offer her maternity. Motherhood stretches our hearts to love more deeply and give new life to others. We talk about adoption and spiritual motherhood, which allows others to be born in our hearts as we image the gift of adoption that God has given to us. Visit ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 19:26-27 |
May 06, 2019 |
S05 Episode 17: Rolling Stones
29:37
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about Pope Francis' Easter message and how we can truly live in the Resurrection. We discuss the power of God that can roll away even the hardest stones in our heart and what the common blocks are to hope in Jesus. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love this Week Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 11:25-26 |
Apr 29, 2019 |
S05 Episode 16: Divine Mercy
30:40
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather talk about the gift of God's mercy. In light of the diary of St. Faustina, they discuss how often we don't turn to God in our weakness and sin because of shame or a belief that we are not worthy. The truth is that God's mercy is a free, inexhaustible gift that our loving Father wants to give to us in abundance. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week The new Hillsong Young & Free acoustic album Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: Scripture for Lectio Divina - Hebrews 4:16 |
Apr 22, 2019 |
S05 Episode 15: Healing the Whole Person: Interview with Dr. Bob Schuchts
43:01
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather have another heart to heart conversation with our good friend Dr. Bob Schuchts. Dr. Bob is a family and marriage counsellor for 40 years and founder of JPII Healing Center. Dr. Bob shares about the 7 universal wounds in the human person that affect how we relate to others, ourselves, and God. He teaches about how those present themselves in our lives and how we can begin the healing journey that leads to freedom. You can find more about Dr. Bob’s ministry at https://jpiihealingcenter.org/ Dr. Bob’s book “Be Healed” - https://jpiihealingcenter.org/product/be-healed-dr-bob-schuchts-copy/ All his other books - https://jpiihealingcenter.org/shop/ Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week For the instant pot:
If using a slow cooker, add the chicken, buffalo sauce, and ranch package, cook on low for 6-7 hours, shred, then add butter and cook for one more hour. Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder “Life comes through the heart” - Dr. Bob Schuchts Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 53:5 |
Apr 15, 2019 |
S05 Episode 14: Lent Book Study 6 - Keep Your Soul At Peace
35:20
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather finish up their Lenten series on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. They talk about how God wants to build a house where he dwells within us and how we are invited to be receptive and open instead of self protective. They dig into what causes us to lose peace and ask how are we letting the Prince of Peace take care of our difficult situations in life. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 14:27 |
Apr 08, 2019 |
S05 Episode 13: Lent Book Study 5 - Beauty In Our Mess
37:59
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather continue the conversation in week five of Lent on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about how we often cover up our weakness and sin in attempts to make ourselves more presentable to God, but that God wants to draw near to us in our weakness and receive every part of us. We also talk about some rules of discernment and how to abandon our will to God in total trust. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam’s one thing: The song “Build My Life” by Housefires Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 8:28 |
Apr 01, 2019 |
S05 Episode 12: Lent Book Study 4 - The Life I Wish I Had
35:24
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather continue the conversation in week 4 of Lent with Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about the frequent human experience of wishing that we had a different life or circumstance than the one we really have. We discuss how the enemy can block us from understanding where God is in our suffering and that the key is to allow the Holy Spirit to change our hearts and open our eyes to a new perspective. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Sister Miriam’s one thing: The documentary “Free Solo” Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 10:10 |
Mar 25, 2019 |
S05 Episode 11: Lent Book Study 3 - How We Fight Our Battles
32:57
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather continue the conversation in week three of Lent on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. We talk about how fear often causes us to self protect or hustle to escape suffering instead of trusting God. We discuss the power of making space for God and his providence in our lives and how we can trust him when we experience suffering. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 6:31-33 |
Mar 18, 2019 |
S05 Episode 10: Lent Book Study 2 - Fighting the Right Battle
30:58
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather continue the conversation on Fr. Jacques Philippe’s book Searching for and Maintaining Peace. They discuss the importance of learning to fight the right battles and how often the enemy distracts us by enticing us to live small stories and fight the wrong battles, which we often lose or exhaust us. We also talk about being anchored in the identity as children of God, the power we gain from keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, and where our true home is. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sister Miriam’s one thing - Pope Francis’s Lenten letter Michelle’s one thing - Lauren Daigle - Love Like This Heather’s one thing - Documentary movie about Mr. Rogers “Won’t You Be My Neighbor” Discussion Questions: 1.) Do you notice in your life that you are putting energy into small stories (battles) rather than the bigger stories that are led by the Holy Spirit? 2.) What does true healing and forgiveness look like? 3.) Am I fighting my battles from a place of my identity being anchored in a beloved daughter/son of God or do I try to fight battles on my own? 4.) What are some practical ways you can you keep in the gaze of God in the busyness of life? Journal Questions: 1.) What are you doing in the area of growing in personal holiness? 2.) Where are you coping out of fear rather than surrendering to the Father? 3.) The psalm say, my home is by your altars. Where do you often make your home instead of by His altars? Quote to Ponder: “Spiritual combat consists precisely in this; defending one's peace of heart against the enemy who attempts to steal it from us” -Fr. Jacques Philippe Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 16:33 “I have told you these things so that you will have peace in Me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage! I have conquered the world” |
Mar 11, 2019 |
S05 Episode 09: Lent Book Study 1 - Battling for Peace
39:39
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather begin Lent with reflections on the book Searching For and Maintaining Peace by Fr. Jacques Philippe. They chat about the truth that without God we can do nothing and that searching for peace isn’t about doing more, but opening to the action of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We are challenged by our calling to be peacemakers and we can’t do that if we don’t have the peace of God first within us. We also ask, what is taking our attention away from the gaze of God this Lent? Visit ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sister Miriam’s one thing - St. Faustina’s book Way of the Cross Discussion Questions: Journal Questions: Quote to Ponder: Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 15:4-5 |
Mar 04, 2019 |
S05 Episode 08: Marriage and Restoration with Dr. Bob Schuchts
47:03
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather talk with special guest, Dr. Bob Schuchts. Dr. Bob has been a marriage and family therapist for 40 years and is the founder of the JP II Healing Center. He shares about the five areas of intimacy in marriage and the role of healing and restoration in the places that have hurt that intimacy. Check out more info about Dr. Bob’s ministry Check out his books: Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sister Miriam’s One Thing - The playlist “Peaceful Classical Music” Michelle’s One Thing - The Netflix series “Call the Midwife” Heather’s One Thing - Jake taking me to see Justin Timberlake! So fun. Dr. Bob’s One Thing - The book “The Same Kind of Different As Me” Discussion Questions: 1) Which one of the 5 areas of intimacy do you struggle with the most? If you’re not married this still applies. (spiritual unity, emotional intimacy, daily companionship, cooperative teamwork, sexual intimacy) 2) What are the places that you need to work at keeping your heart open in relationships, when you feel the fear of being hurt? 3) How do you need to be more honest in your closest relationships? 4) What is the next right thing you need to do in your marriage (or closest friendship or personal life)? Journal Questions: 1) What issues from your childhood and dating relationships did you bring into your marriage (or will bring into your marriage or future vocational calling)? 2) How can I become more receptive to the love of God, so that I can share that more easily in my marriage or close relationships? 3) If you’re married, consider having the conversation Dr. Bob suggested. “What is the state of our union”? And use the 5 areas of intimacy as a guide. 4) Where do you need to offer forgiveness? Quote to Ponder: Scripture for Lectio Divina - Ephesians 4:2-3 Next week we will begin our Lenten series on the themes of “Searching for and Maintaining Peace” by Fr. Jacques Philippe. This book is super small, but jam packed with wisdom. You don’t need to read the book to follow the podcasts, but if you’d like to read it, you can purchase it on Amazon. |
Feb 25, 2019 |
S05 Episode 07: Hope and Healing in Times of Trial
41:13
Today on the Abiding Together Podcast, Sister Miriam, Michelle and Heather talk about living with the reality of depression, anxiety and hardships in life. We have some vulnerable conversation about our personal journeys and share the things we have learned along the way that have anchored our hearts in the hope of Jesus and allowed for healing and growth. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sister Miriam’s One Thing - Adam Young- The Purpose of Counseling Michelle’s One Thing - Tasha Cobbs - Queen of Soul Heather’s One Thing - “Even When It Hurts” by Hillsong United Discussion Questions: 1) What stood out to you in this podcast? 2) Where are the places that you struggle to rest in God and believe He is trustworthy? 3) What has helped you have hope in times of trial? 4) What allows you to rest, receive, and not isolate when you’re struggling? Journal Questions: 1) What might be stunting your emotional and spiritual growth? 2) What are two scriptures that you can memorize to anchor you in the midst of trial? 3) Jesus longs to heal us. What is the area that He is putting His finger on right now? Quote to Ponder: "Depression doesn't define who I am. It's a part of my story, as a lot of broken parts are, but Jesus is the one who gives me my identity and tells me who I am and that's where we need to look to him and hear his voice in all the parts of our story" Heather Khym Scripture for Lectio Divina - Lamentations 3:21-24 **Special Lenten Announcement! We will be doing a book study together beginning on March 4! The book will “Searching for and Maintaining Peace” by Fr. Jacques Philippe ** |
Feb 18, 2019 |
S05 Episode 06: Book Study Part 4 - The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe - Chapters 13-18
33:11
Today in the Abiding Together Podcast, we wrap up our book study on the Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe Part 4 (chapters 13-18). We chat about the resurrection, what it means to be restored and reconciled, and making space for childlike wonder. We hope you’ve enjoyed this book study with us. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: The “Abiding” Women’s Conference in Louisiana Discussion Questions: 1) When have you had an experience of mercy? 2) Who is someone that you need to offer mercy to? 3) What do you experience when God has you in a process or journey? Are you able to be patient or are you filled with unrest and anxiety? 4) Do I live life in grey, stone cold, or do I live life in technicolor? 5) Where am I dying and need Christ to bring life and make things new? Journal Questions: 1) Where do you need to ask God for mercy in your life right now? 2) Where is my heart hard? 3) How can I allow time and space for playfulness, joy and childlike wonder? Quote to Ponder: “We are not on earth to guard a museum, but to cultivate a flowering garden of life” - Pope John XXIII Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 6:4-5 Special Lenten Announcement! *We will be doing a book study together beginning on March 4! The book will “Searching for and Maintaining Peace” by Fr. Jacques Philippe * |
Feb 11, 2019 |
S05 Episode 05: Book Study Part 3 - The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe - Chapters 9-12
31:22
Today in the Abiding Together Podcast, Sr. Miriam, Heather, and Michelle progress with the book study on the Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (chapters 9-12). They continue to relate the story concepts with our spiritual life by discussing themes like the false narrative of the enemy, the dynamic of stoney hearts that God wants to restore and turn to flesh, true living of the paschal mystery, and the power of God’s resurrection power in our lives. We hope you enjoy this episode! Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One Thing - Fire Within- Fr. Thomas Dubay Michelle’s One Thing - The movie “Gifted” Heather's One Thing - The Abiding Together small groups! We love you! Discussion Questions: 1) What is one of the false narratives that the enemy has been telling in your life? 2) What do you think the Father wants to say about that? 3) What area of your heart do you feel has been turned to stone or has been hardened? Why? 4) “Hurting people, hurt people”. Discuss this concept and how we can offer a response of healing. 5) Where have you settled for the dry bread from the enemy instead of the banquet that God is offering to you? Journal Questions: 1) Instead of being child like, we can be childish with God. What is the difference between those two dynamics that you can see in your own life? 2) The enemy makes empty promises. What is one that you can see he has made to you in your life? 3) What is one promise of God and His faithfulness that you have seen at work in your life? 4) “Battle looks like surrender”. What is one battle that you need to move into a disposition of surrender to God? Quote to Ponder: "Aslan is on the move” - C.S. Lewis - The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe *Scripture for Lectio Divina - Ezekiel 36:26 * “A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will remove from your body the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.” |
Feb 04, 2019 |
S05 Episode 04: Book Study Part 2 - The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe - Chapters 5-8
34:35
Today we continue our book study on the Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe Chapters 5-8. We reflect deeper on the story and how it relates to our spiritual lives. Themes such as the battle of light and darkness, jealousy and making others feel small, the power of the name of Jesus, surrender vs control and how the story of Narnia is an echo of what our hearts long for in Christ. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One thing - The women from the “Undone” retreat https://jpiihealingcenter.org/events/undone-womens-conference-tallahassee-fl/ Michelle’s other one thing - The book “Just Mercy” by Bryan Stevenson Heather's One Thing - Evangelization Ministry of Catholic Christian Outreach https://cco.ca/resources/faith-studies-series/ Discussion Questions: 1) What is one truth about God that you can see in your story? 2) Where do you need to grow into your royal identity as a daughter/son of God? 3) Discuss the truth about how the name of Jesus contains His presence. How could this change how you pray? 4) “He isn’t safe, but He’s good.” Discuss this quote and surrender vs. control. Journal Questions: 1) Who can you go to who can speak wisdom into your life? 2) Like Edmund, are there any places of your life that you feel fear when you think about God? 3) What parts of your heart have been turned to stone and need the warmth of God’s hand to bring them back to life? Quote to Ponder: "Safe?" said Mr Beaver ..."Who said anything about safe? ‘Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you.” - C.S. Lewis - The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe Scripture for Lectio Divina - Revelation 21:4-7 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!" Then he said, "Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true. He said to me: "It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give water without cost from the spring of the water of life. Those who are victorious will inherit all this, and I will be their God and they will be my children. |
Jan 28, 2019 |
S05 Episode 03: Book Study Part 1 - The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe - Chapters 1-4
40:22
Today we begin our book study on The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe (Chapters 1-4). We dive into the themes of this chapter such as innocence, faith, temptation, sin, and shared adventure. We hope you will continue to join us on the journey into this wonderful story, which we hope will help us reflect more deeply on our relationship with Christ, our own story of faith and redemption, and the invitation to adventure with God. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One thing - The song “Pieces” (the live version) by Amanda Cook https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sg4O5dqzN68 Ascension would like to offer you a 20% discount through the month of February on Fr. Josh Johnson’s book Broken and Blessed. Just go to www.shop.ascensionpress.com click on Broken and Blessed and enter the promo code fatherjosh (for US residents only) Michelle’s other one thing - New song “Electricity” by Ellie and Drew Holcomb https://www.drewholcomb.com/news/2019/1/11/electricity-new-music-from-drew-amp-ellie-holcomb Heather's One Thing - New Worship Playlist “Into the Deep” https://open.spotify.com/user/12184473750/playlist/4gHBMwlnndJaBp4jjYxpAQ?si=uQs5kI_-RQCHiso29p3hRg Discussion Questions: 1) What stood out to you in the reading for this week? 2) Where in my life has the enemy taken a place, where I have lost hope and need Christmas to come? 3) For the women - Discuss the difference of femininity between Lucy and the witch. How has this affected your life? 4) When we numb our heart and our identity, we numb our wonder and our inheritance. Discuss this. 5) Where are the places and spaces that you can find wonder that leads to God? Journal Questions: 1) How has the enemy spoken things in your life that bring about shame? 2) What are the parts of Edmund you see in yourself? What parts of Lucy do you see? 3) What is your Turkish delight (sin or temptation) that keeps you bound? 4) Where are the places you hide from the Lord and others? Quote to Ponder: "And what wonderful adventures we shall have, now that we are all in it together." - (Lucy) CS Lewis Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 18:3 “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” |
Jan 21, 2019 |
S05 Episode 02:The Power of Story
33:39
Stories are powerful ways to communicate deep things of the human experience in a way that touches us and makes us more human. Jesus is the perfect example of being a master storyteller, making His truth and teachings relatable and personal. We discuss how we can open our spiritual eyes to stories and movies to see how they speak of the bigger story of salvation and the longings of the human heart. We also share about how our owning our stories is key. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One thing - Clemson crushing Alabama in the National Football Championship Michelle’s other one thing - Fr. Mike Schmitt’s talk from the Focus SEEK Conference. Watch it here at minute 45:35 - https://youtu.be/ZcBidOcLUsc Heather's One Thing - Song “Highs and Lows” by Hillsong Young & Free https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEBOJMXqSdQ Discussion Questions: 1) What is your favorite story or movie that has parallels with the story of Salvation? Why do you love it so much? 2) Do you relate to the quote “for most of us, life feels like a movie we’ve arrived at 45 minutes late”? How connected to you feel to the larger story of Salvation in your daily life? 3) Have you ever wanted to take the pen out of God’s hand and write your own story? How do you need to grow in trust that He writes the best stories? Journal Questions: 1) What do you think is your role to play right now in the story of Salvation? 2) What movies or books do you love? How do those relate to the Story of Salvation? 3) How are you pursuing truth, beauty, and goodness in the stories and movies you consume? 4) What are three themes of your life story? What does God want to say about that? Quote to Ponder: “A story is a way to say something that can't be said any other way." - Flannery O'Connor Scripture for Lectio Divina - Psalm 139:13-16 For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. |
Jan 14, 2019 |
S05 Episode 01: Word of the Year
37:05
Welcome back for Season 5! In this episode, Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather kick off the new year by discussing the concept of a “word of the year”, a word given to us by God to help shape our heart, mind, and direction for 2019. They each share what they believe God has spoken to them for this year, how to cultivate it, and how we can listen to the voice of God and His guidance. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One Thing - A Wonder Woman fridge magnet, gift from our friend Mary Michelle’s One Thing - The movie Pride and Prejudice Heather's One Thing - The new movie Mary Poppins Returns! - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3jsfXDZLIY Discussion Questions: 1) What is your word of the year? If you don’t have one, how might you make room for God to speak to you about this coming year? 2) What practical things do you need to help this word take root and bear fruit in your life? 3) How could this be fruitful in your spiritual life? 4) What struck you from this week’s podcast? Journal Questions: 1) What does God want you to know through that word right now? 2) If you don’t have a word of the year, what is happening in your heart when you think about the concept? 3) How will you make room for your word of the year from God? Quote to Ponder: “We must learn to live each day, each hour, yes, each minute as a new beginning, as a unique opportunity to make everything new. Imagine that we could live each moment as a moment pregnant with new life. Imagine that we could live each day as a day full of promises. Imagine that we could walk through the new year always listening to a voice saying to us: “I have a gift for you and can’t wait for you to see it! Imagine!” - Henri Nouwen Scripture for Lectio Divina - Isaiah 61:1-3 “The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to provide for those who mourn in Zion— to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory.” |
Jan 07, 2019 |
S04 Episode 15: A Christmas Blessing Minisode
11:19
Merry Christmas from Sister Miriam, Michelle, and Heather! Today the ladies of Abiding Together bring you a special minisode: A Christmas Blessing. |
Dec 24, 2018 |
S04 Episode 14: Advent and the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius: Interview with Debbie Herbeck (Part 3)
43:31
In this weeks episode we finish up our Advent series, the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius, with a wonderful conversation with special guest Debbie Herbeck. Debbie is a wife, mother, and grandmother who disciples young women and lives radical love in action. She shares with us her journey from Judaism to Catholicism, the cost of the Gospel in her own family, and her life changing encounter with Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta. She also shares how Mary has been pivotal in her life and challenges us to open our hearts to love. To find out more about Debbie you can check out beloverevolution.com and you can check out her three books: Safely Through the Storm, Love Never Fails, Firmly on the Rock. Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Michelle’s One Thing - Spirit Break Out - Kim Walker Smith Heather's One Thing - Debbie’s Husband Peter Herbeck (listen to one of his talks ) Debbie’s One Thing - The phrase “Mission Impossible” - Reflecting on God’s call for us love an impossible person. Discussion Questions: 1) Who is Mary in your life? 2) When have women spoken into your life in a way that brought forth life in you? 3) What is God asking you to speak into other women’s lives? 4) In what area of your life do you need to hear God tell you that you have value and an important role to play? Journal Questions: 5) In what areas to you feel hidden in your life? How might God want to be present to you there? 6) Who in my life is God calling me to be present to and love really well? 7) What is one of the basics of the spiritual life and Gospel message that God wants you to get back to? Quote to Ponder: “Do small things with great love” - Saint Teresa of Calcutta Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 1:39-56 “At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women,and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” |
Dec 17, 2018 |
S04 Episode 13: Advent and the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius: Interview with Ali Hoffman (Part 2)
39:34
We continue our Advent mini series on the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius and interview the lovely Ali Hoffman! Ali is also known as “theoodlesofdoodles” on instagram where she creates beautiful quotes and art and is also a full time youth director. We chat with Ali about women being able to celebrate one another’s gifts and live in community over competition and much more! Visit www.ascensionpress.com/abidingtogether to subscribe to the shownotes and receive them in your email every Monday! One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One thing - Art piece Bouguereau-Song of the Angels Michelle’s other one thing - Love is Christmas - Sara Bareilles Heather's One Thing - Matt Maher “Jingle Bells” https://youtu.be/AcPdRWNP00M Ali’s One Thing - Blessed is She Advent Journal https://blessedisshe.net/product/bearing-light-advent-devotional/ Discussion Questions: 1) What does it look like to relate as community instead of as competitors? 2) What do people need to safely share their gifts with other people without feeling threatened or insufficient? 3) What is one thing that God is speaking to you this Advent? Journal Questions: 1) How can I grow in my friendships and offer love more freely? 2) Do you believe like Mary that God will fulfill His promises? 3) How can you slow done this Week of Advent? Quote to Ponder: "Advent is a time for this arising." - Catherine Doughtery Scripture of the Week - Luke 1:39-56 “At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women,and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” |
Dec 10, 2018 |
S04 Episode 12: Advent and the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius (Part 1)
39:27
Today we begin a short Advent series on the Fellowship of the Feminine Genius. We break open what happens in the power of community and what it means to come together in a circle and champion one another and to offer a place to be seen, known, and celebrated. We use the relationship of Mary and Elizabeth as the model and share our own story of how we met, how God has used our fellowship to encourage and fight for one another and how to offer true friendship and love for one another. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam’s One thing - Heather’s Advent Playlist Michelle’s other one thing - The book by Madeline L'Engle - And it was Good: Reflections on Beginnings Heather's One Thing - Advent book by Ann Voskamp “[Unwrapping the Greatest Gift - A Family Christmas Celebration ]"(https://amzn.to/2QlPSE9) Also the song “Noel” by Lauren Daigle Discussion Questions: 1) What stands out to you about Mary and Elizabeth's friendship? Journal Questions: 1) How do you need self-care this week? This year? Quote to Ponder: "Love still takes the risk of birth" - Madeline L'Engle *Scripture of the Week *- Luke 1:39-56 “At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah’s home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women,and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her!” |
Dec 03, 2018 |
S04 Episode 11: The Lordship of Jesus
33:36
In today’s episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we talk about the Lordship of Jesus and what it means to truly submit our lives to Him. It’s often easy to fall into the trap of doing good religious works, without truly giving our whole life to the Lord. We chat about the truth of how it’s in losing your life that we find it, what submission practically looks like, and how to encourage one another to look at the areas that are incongruent in our lives. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “We pray that the whole creation, set free from slavery, may render your majesty service and ceaselessly sing your praise” - Collect from the Solemnity of Christ the King Scripture of the Week - Philippians 2:9-11 “Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” |
Nov 26, 2018 |
S04 Episode 10: Joint Restoration: Interview with Father Josh Johnson, Doctors of the Church Series Conclusion
43:24
In today’s episode of the Abiding Together Podcast, we interview the wonderful Fr. Josh Johnson! Fr. Josh shares with us his insights about how the feminine genius complimenting masculinity is meant to restore the Church. He shares about his personal encounters with Christ in the deepest places of his wounds and how that changed his life and shaped his ministry. We also talk about how all of this impacts the current scandals in the Church and our response to our own sin, hiding, and pursuit of personal holiness. One Thing We Love This Week: Fr. Josh’s One Thing - His book “Broken and Blessed: An Invitation to My Generation” Sr. Miriam's One Thing - This series on “The Place We Find Ourselves” podcast. Michelle's One Thing - The Greatest Showman - Re-imagined Heather's One Thing - Fr. Josh’s podcast “Ask Fr. Josh” https://media.ascensionpress.com/category/ascension-podcasts/askfrjosh/ Discussion Questions: How can your femininity compliment masculine hearts in healthy ways? Journal Questions: How can you be more tender with people you are walking with in your life? Quote to Ponder: “Womanhood and manhood are complementary not only from the physical and psychological points of view, it is only through the duality of the "masculine" and the "feminine" that the "human" finds full realization.” Saint John Paul The Great, Letter to Women Scripture of the Week - Luke 1:78-79 “By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.” |
Nov 19, 2018 |
S04 Episode 09: Doctors of the Church Part 4: St. Thérèse of Lisieux
43:31
Today's Abiding Together Podcast is part 4 of our series on the women doctors of the Church. This episode is on St. Thérèse of Lisieux. We talk in depth about her “little way”, a path of deep trust in God that allowed her to love in small and courageous ways and led to her sainthood. We chat about the universal call to holiness, the acceptance of our weaknesses, and how to grow in deeper trust. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - Undone Women’s Retreat: Discussion Questions: 1) St. Thérèse surrendered in trust to God, in what ways do you need to grow in trust? Journal Questions: 1) How is God calling you to become “little” and more dependent on God in your life? Quote to Ponder: “God would never inspire me with desires which cannot be realized; so in spite of my littleness, I can hope to be a saint.” - St.Thérèse of Lisieux Scripture for the week - Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. Surely goodness and loving kindness will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. We have a discussion group on Facebook that you are most welcome to join. If you have a Facebook account, just request access by clicking here https://www.facebook.com/groups/147228892631737/ We did a little spontaneous video podcast a couple of weeks ago, which we posted on our Facebook Abiding Together Podcast page. Here it is in case you missed it https://vimeo.com/298429907 Reading Recommendations about St. Therese: The Way of Trust and Love - by Fr. Jacques Philippe The Story of a Soul - by St. Therese I Believe in Love: A Personal Retreat Based on the Teaching of St. Therese of Lisieux - by Jean D'Elbee 33 days to Merciful Love - Fr. Micheal Gaitley Shirts of Flame - A year with St. Therese of Lisieux - by Heather King |
Nov 12, 2018 |
S04 Episode 08: Doctors of the Church Part 3: St. Teresa of Avila
44:34
Today’s episode is Part 3 of our series on the women doctors of the Church, on the life of St. Teresa of Avila. We talk about the great gift of her spiritual writings, her humor, her practical wisdom and her reforming spirit. We talk about growing in self awareness and how we can move through spiritual pitfalls. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - Song “Fear Not” by Kristene DiMarco Michelle's One Thing - Blessed Is She advent Journal Also the new Ascension Series coming soon called “Rejoice” Discussion Questions: 1) What struck you from the podcast this week? Journal Questions: 1) What are the areas that I tolerate and give in to sin in my life, instead of going deeper? Quote to Ponder: “Either we are brides of so great a King or we are not.” - St. Teresa of Avila Scripture for the Week - Zephaniah 3:16-20 In that day it will be said to Jerusalem: “Do not be afraid, O Zion; Do not let your hands fall limp. “The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. “I will gather those who grieve about the appointed feasts—They came from you, O Zion; The reproach of exile is a burden on them. “Behold, I am going to deal at that time with all your oppressors, I will save the lame and gather the outcast, and I will turn their shame into praise and renown in all the earth. At that time I will bring you in, even at the time when I gather you together; Indeed, I will give you renown and praise among all the peoples of the earth, when I restore your fortunes before your eyes” *Listen to our Doctors of the Church Spotify Worship Playlist *- https://open.spotify.com/user/12184473750/playlist/6uqQ8RwDh4xkDP0IxB9O65?si=GD4CrGUPTR2xbqDzA_ybTg Reading Recommendations: Interior Castle - St Teresa of Avila https://www.amazon.com/Interior-Castle-Dover-Thrift-Editions/dp/0486461459/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1540866080&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=interior+castle&psc=1 The Way of Perfection - St Teresa of Avila https://www.amazon.com/Way-Perfection-St-Teresa-Avila-ebook/dp/B07JKNDT67/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540866028&sr=8-1&keywords=the+way+of+perfection+by+st.+theresa+of+avila The Four Teresas - Gina Loehr https://www.amazon.com/Four-Teresas-Gina-Loehr-ebook/dp/B004HKJ8PM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1540865886&sr=8-1&keywords=Four+teresas |
Nov 05, 2018 |
S04 Episode 07: Doctors of the Church Part 2: St. Hildegard of Bingen
43:21
Today’s episode we dive into the life of St. Hildegard of Bingen, part 2 of our series on the women doctors of the Church. We talk about how amazing this woman was, her many talents and how she used the power of her voice and influence to help restore the Church. We also discuss places that we have lost our voice, the trap of self doubt, and letting God be strong in our weakness. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - The Anonymous 4 album “The Origin of Fire” Michelle's One Thing - The Ministry of Ordinary Places - Shannan Martin Heather's One Thing - The song “New Wine” by Hillsong https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbJaM_EneMw Discussion Questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “We cannot live in a world that is not our own, in a world that is interpreted for us by others. An interpreted world is not a home. Part of the terror is to take back our own listening, to use our own voice, to see our own light.” - St. Hildegard of Bingen Scripture for the week - Proverbs 15:2,4-5,7 The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, but the mouths of fools spout folly. A soothing tongue is a tree of life, but perversion in it crushes the spirit. A fool rejects his father’s discipline, but he who regards reproof is sensible. The lips of the wise spread knowledge, but the hearts of fools are not so. Here's a worship playlist we created to go along with the Doctors Series. We pray it blesses you. To order the prayer/study journal accompaniment for the Doctor series head over to Meaningful Market Shop - https://meaningfulmarketshop.com/collections/doctors Reading Recommendations: Secrets of God Hildegard of Bingen-Doctor of the Church |
Oct 29, 2018 |
S04 Episode 06: Doctors of the Church Part 1: St. Catherine of Siena
47:22
Today we begin our 5 part series on the women Doctors of the Church by first exploring the life of St. Catherine of Siena. St. Catherine was a preacher, influencer, writer, miracle worker, and mystic. In this episode, we chat about Catherine’s example of intimacy with God, her fiery heart and voice of conviction, how her hidden life fueled her passion for the Church and restoration, and how we can follow her example in specific ways. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “I promise you, that, by this means, her beauty will be restored to her, not by the knife nor by cruelty, but peacefully, by humble and continued prayer, by the sweat and the tears shed by the fiery desire of My servants” - Jesus to St. Catherine of Siena *Scripture for the week - Ezekiel 37:1-7 * The hand of the Lord was on me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord and set me in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. He led me back and forth among them, and I saw a great many bones on the floor of the valley, bones that were very dry. He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know.”Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord.’” So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone. |
Oct 22, 2018 |
S04 Episode 05: Teach Us to Pray
36:12
Learning how to pray is one of the topics Christians are continually striving to learn more about. In this episode we talk in depth about a couple of forms of prayer and also share some of our personal experiences and insights from our own prayer life. We hope that this conversation blesses you and encourages you to pray and encounter Christ more deeply. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - Her best pals Heather and Michelle! Discussion Questions: What tends to distract you from taking time to pray each day? How can you prevent it? Journal Questions: If you don’t have one, make a prayer plan for each day of your week. Quote to Ponder: "For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy.” - St. Therese of Lisieux |
Oct 15, 2018 |
S04 Episode 04: How to Begin Dreaming
33:23
In this episode we talk about how to begin dreaming about the things God is calling us to, which is very different than the cheesy instagram notion. We also share about dreams being deep desires that God places in our hearts to build up the kingdom and how to invite the Holy Spirit to restore the broken place so that new life can come forth. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - Torin Wells “Known” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbQ6Lfh5L14 Michelle's One Thing - Reese Witherspoon’s book “Whiskey in a Tea Cup https://www.amazon.com/Whiskey-Teacup-Growing-Taught-Biscuits-ebook/dp/B07CL96ZWB/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537585554&sr=8-1&keywords=reese+witherspoon+whiskey+in+a+tea+cup Heather's One Thing - My kids! Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet” - Frederick Buechner Extra scriptures for this episode "And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions” - Joel 2:28 “The LORD answered me: “Write down this vision and clearly inscribe it on tablets, so that a herald may run with it. 3 For the vision awaits an appointed time; it testifies of the end,and will not lie. Though it lingers, wait for it, since it will surely come and not delay. - Habakkuk 2:3 |
Oct 08, 2018 |
S04 Episode 03: The Principles of Abiding
34:15
In this episode we talk about the scripture from John 15 where Jesus invites us to abide in Him and remain in His love. We discuss the importance of being rooted in Christ and the stumbling blocks that get in the way of that. We particularly explore the concept of littleness vs striving and self reliance. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - Working in her mom’s garden! Michelle's One Thing - Haley Stewart’s new book “The Grace of Enough” - https://www.amazon.com/Grace-Enough-Pursuing-Throwaway-Culture-ebook/dp/B07CXFQQ3L/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537561852&sr=8-1&keywords=the+grace+of+enough+haley+stewart Heather's One Thing - “Late Have I Loved You” by Gungor - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3WoCwuPXhvM Discussion Questions: What holds you back from being vulnerable with people in your life? Journal Questions: Quote to Ponder: “All things must come to the soul from its roots, from where it is planted” - St Teresa of Avila |
Oct 01, 2018 |
S04 Episode 02: Power of Connection
31:25
In this episode we talk about the power of connection and the shared human desire to be connected to one another. We discuss how authentic Christianity is not lived in isolation, the importance of vulnerability, being present to the present moment, and learning to love well and grow out of unhealthy patterns of relating to others. |
Sep 24, 2018 |
S04 Episode 01: On Summer and Scandal
37:54
Welcome to Season 4! We are so excited to start our new season in collaboration with Ascension. In our first episode we talk about our summer, introduce ourselves to our new listeners, but most importantly we share our perspective and our journey through the ongoing news of the scandals within the Church. One Thing We Love This Week: Sr. Miriam's One Thing - The Place We Find Ourselves Podcast Discussion Questions: 1. What do you think is your role to play in restoring beauty in the Church?
Journal Questions: 1. What is holding you back from something that God is calling you to do?
Quote to Ponder: “Hope has two beautiful daughters. Their names are anger and courage; anger at the way things are, and courage to see that they do not remain the way they are.” - St. Augustine |
Sep 17, 2018 |
S03 Episode 27: Summer Bonus – Meet Michelle Benzinger
15:38
While the ladies are taking the summer off here is a bonus episode where we get the chance to get to know Michelle Benzinger a little better.
Subscribe to the podcast: Apple Podcast | Android Phone | Spotify | RSS Michelle Benzinger - Michelle Benzinger is a national women’s speaker, creative entrepreneur, and advocate for marginalized women and children. She is the visionary leader of Greenhouse Collective and the creative director of Meaningful Market. She co-hosts a podcast, Abiding Together with Sr. Miriam Heidland and Heather Khym. Michelle and her husband, Chris, have served in global and domestic missions for the past 15 years with their six children (two adopted from Haiti) and now reside in Pensacola, Florida. Greenhouse Collective: facebook | instagram | website Meaningful Market: facebook | instagram | website |
Aug 13, 2018 |
S03 Episode 26: Summer Bonus - Meet Sr. Miriam James Heidland
18:09
While the ladies are taking the summer off here is a bonus episode where we get the chance to get to know Sr. Miriam James Heidland a little better. Sr. Miriam James was raised in Woodland, WA and is a graduate of the University ofNevada-Reno where she played volleyball on a scholarship and majored in Communications. Upon graduation, she joined the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity (SOLT), a missionary community that serves global areas of deepest apostolic need. Sr. Miriam has served at various SOLT missions including Rome, Seattle and Texas. In addition to speaking, her apostolates have included working with elementary school students, parish ministry, coaching high school volleyball and co-hosting a Catholic radio program. Her story has been featured in the Seattle Times, The National Catholic Register and heard on Relevant Radio, Sirius XM, Catholic Answers Live and EWTN’s Life on the Rock, as well as Steubenville conferences, the Share Jesus campaign and international conferences and retreats. She holds a Master’s degree in Theology from the Augustine Institute and often attends courses at the Theology of the Body Institute. Her book titled Loved As I Am was released in 2014 from Ave Maria Press. |
Jul 30, 2018 |
S03 Episode 25: Summer Bonus - Meet Heather Khym
16:40
The ladies are off for the summer, but we have a bonus interview so you can get to know Heather Khym a little more. |
Jul 09, 2018 |
S03 Episode 24: End of Season Review
36:04
In our last episode before we break for summer, we talk about the highlights of the season and revisit some of the themes that we loved. We had a lot of joking and laughter as we shared some of our personal experiences and we also checked in about our word for the year. One Thing We Love This Week:
Quote to Ponder: "We never grow closer to God when we just live life. It takes deliberate pursuit and attentiveness" - Francis Chan
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Jun 25, 2018 |
S03 Episode 23: Book Study - Gaudete Et Exsultate Chapter 4 & 5 (Part 3)
34:33
In this episode wrap up our study of Gaudete Et Exsultate with chapters 4 & 5. We talk about everything from bullying on social media, the pitfalls of gossip, discernment, and how we can get rid of the poser and experience freedom in humility and poverty of spirit. We also talk about the gift of joy in the midst of struggle and living holiness in the small things. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “Let us ask the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us a fervent longing to be saints for God’s greater glory and let us encourage one another in this effort. In this way we will share a happiness that the world will not be able to take from us.” - Pope Francis
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Jun 18, 2018 |
S03 Episode 22: Book Study - Gaudete Et Exsultate Chapter 2 & 3 (Part 2)
36:10
In this episode we discuss chapters 2 & 3 of “Gaudete Et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad)” by Pope Francis. We talk about our tendencies to fall into judgmentalism or self reliance and how these creep into our spiritual life. We also talk about the beauty of the Beatitudes and our call to get honest with ourselves about our pride and embrace poverty of spirit so as to fully live the Christian life and embrace grace more fully. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: "Yes I have many human faults and failures...But God bends down and uses us, you and me, to be his love and his compassion in the world; he bears our sins, our troubles and our faults. He depends on us to love the world and to show how much he loves it. if we are too concerned with ourselves we will have no time left for others” - St. Teresa of Calcutta
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Jun 11, 2018 |
S03 Episode 21: Book Study - Gaudete Et Exsultate Chapter 1 (Part 1)
39:18
In this episode we begin our 3 part study of “Gaudete Et Exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad)” by Pope Francis. We start with a discussion of Chapter 1, “The Call to Holiness”, and that this call is not for the elite, but for everyone to live out in their own unique way. We talk about the misconceptions of what holiness looks like, share some personal stories of how God brought freedom to areas we felt pressure to live a certain way, and how God wants us to come alive. One Thing We Love This Week:
One can of sweet corn whole kernel drained One can black beans drained Juice of one fresh lime A handful or two of chopped cilantro (to your taste) Half a jar of salsa (your choice) 1 cup (ish) grated medium or sharp cheddar cheese A little shake of salt Stir together and serve with corn tortilla chips If it needs more flavor add more salsa and/or lime juice Discussion Questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “Holiness is the most attractive face of the Church” - Pope Francis
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Jun 04, 2018 |
S03 Episode 20: How To Thrive In The Summer
33:26
If you’d like to join us for our next study, it starts May 28th - “Gaudete Et Exsultate - On the Call to Holiness in Today’s World” by Pope Francis. If you’d like to read it, you can find it at your local Catholic book store or order it on Amazon In this episode we talk about how to thrive during the summer, when we aren’t in our normal schedules. We chat about some strategies to continue growing in our relationship with God and flourish in whatever situation we are in. We focus on the categories of rest, play, prayer, connection, beauty, self care, and community. We hope you enjoy this conversation. If you'd like to host a coffee time, lunch, or dinner with a few women, here are some questions to put on the table to spark some good conversation. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “Vacation time offers the unique opportunity to pause before the thought-provoking spectacles of nature, a wonderful ‘book’ within reach of everyone, adults and children. In contact with nature, a person rediscovers his correct dimension, rediscovers himself as a creature, small but at the same time unique with a ‘capacity for God’ because interiorly he is open to the infinite”- Pope Benedict XVI
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May 28, 2018 |
S03 Episode 19: Mother Mary
34:29
In this month of May, dedicated to mothers, we wanted to talk about our Lady, our Mother Mary. In this episode we chat about the calling of all women to spiritual motherhood and how we relate to Mary as our mother. We also discuss how Mary can be a powerful model for us of openness to the will of God and filling of the Holy Spirit and how she can assist us in our journey closer to Jesus. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “Mary, she existed in the divine mind as an eternal thought before there were any mothers. She is the mother of mothers she is the world's first love” -Fulton Sheen
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May 21, 2018 |
S03 Episode 18: The Holy Spirit w/ Fr. Dave Pivonka
35:00
As we approach Pentecost this week, we thought it would be awesome to have a conversation about the Holy Spirit with Fr. Dave Pivonka TOR. Fr. Dave created the “Wild Goose” project with 4PM Media and has a deep devotion to the Holy Spirit. We had the pleasure of hearing Fr. Dave’s story and chatted with him about how to have a relationship with the Holy Spirit and practical ways to open our hearts to a new Pentecost in our own hearts. We were moved and inspired by this conversation and hope that you will be too. You can check out the free Wild Goose Series One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: "The Holy Spirit brings people into divine life as children of God where they can live, as true children, in a relationship of intimacy, freedom, and faith in the love and mercy of God." - Pope Francis |
May 14, 2018 |
S03 Episode 17: Inheritance
46:43
In this week's episode we wanted you to hear the final talk from our Royal Women’s retreat. Mary Bielski talks about our inheritance as children of God, who is the King of Kings. She passionately shares about what it means to operate in authority, how to become more aware and strengthened by the cloud of witnesses, and how to live out our calling and purpose and receive provision from God. Here is the video Mary shows during the talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEiSF8HpyDg Discussion Questions:
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Quote to Ponder: “The message of the gospel isn’t about just getting into heaven, its about heaven getting into us” - Mary Bielski
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May 07, 2018 |
S03 Episode 16: Royalty
32:19
In this weeks episode we reflect on the theme of our Royalty and how we are adopted daughters and sons of the King and therefore we are royal. We discuss the themes from the women’s retreat we did together in British Columbia last week and share about God’s invitation to us, our identity, how to grow in intimacy with Him, and our royal inheritance. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “For Zion’s sake I will not keep silent, and for Jerusalem’s sake I will not rest, until her vindication goes forth as brightness, and her salvation as a burning torch. The nations shall see your vindication, and all the kings your glory; and you shall be called by a new name which the mouth of the Lord will give. You shall be a crown of beauty in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate; but you shall be called My delight is in her, and your land Married; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married.” - Isaiah 62:1-5
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Apr 30, 2018 |
S03 Episode 15: Intimacy
38:55
There is good news and bad news. The bad news is Michelle, Sr. Miriam, and Heather planned on recording a podcast while at the Royal Retreat held this last weekend in British Columbia. Because Michelle's flight was over 3 hours late they didn't have time to record a new podcast. The good news is we have a recording of Heather's talk from Saturday of the retreat on intimacy. Here are the two videos Heather used in her talk: Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “There can be no intimacy – emotional intimacy, spiritual intimacy, physical intimacy – without vulnerability. One of the reasons there is such an intimacy deficit today is because we don’t know how to be vulnerable. It’s about being honest with how we feel, about our fears, about what we need. Vulnerability is a glue that holds intimate relationships together” - Brene Brown |
Apr 23, 2018 |
S03 Episode 14: John 21
33:05
In this week's episode we break open John 21, where Peter goes back to his old way of life, encounters Jesus, and reconciles with him. We discuss how we often go back to our old ways after Lent, but that God is calling us to deeper intimacy and transformation. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Quote to Ponder: “The invitation this Easter season is to come out of hiding and really let the Lord see us” - Heather Khym
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Apr 16, 2018 |
S03 Episode 13: Favorite Things
35:49
We thought we would have a little fun this week with a light hearted conversation about some of our favorite things from movies to saints and everything in between. We have learned that in order to have thriving relationships, its so important to never stop learning about the other. Laughing and chatting about things we love, bonds people. We hope you'll take an opportunity to discuss your favorite things with a few friends over a coffee or glass of wine. |
Apr 09, 2018 |
S03 Episode 12: Life of the Beloved - Epilogue (Part 8)
29:02
In this weeks podcast we finish our Life of the Beloved book study with “Living as the Beloved” and the epilogue. We discuss how God is Love and He desires to be loved by us. All that God has done for us deserves a response, a personal response to His goodness, His love, and His sacrifice. Thank you for joining us for the book study and we look forward to continuing the journey with you each week with the podcast. Join the Facebook discussion group here. One Thing We Love This Week:
Journal Questions:
“The unfathomable mystery of God is that God is a lover who wants to be loved” - Henri Nouwen |
Apr 02, 2018 |
S03 Episode 11: Life of the Beloved - Given (Part 7)
33:12
In this weeks podcast we reflect on the next chapter in Life of the Beloved, “Given”. We talk about the greatest gift we can offer another is not our talents, but our very selves. This allows for the deep connection and intimacy we all long for, but to give ourselves we need to first possess ourselves and know our identity as beloved. Join the Facebook discussion group here. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “Our real gift is not so much what we can do, but who we are” - Henri Nouwen
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Mar 26, 2018 |
S03 Episode 10: Life of the Beloved - Broken (Part 6)
30:39
This week we continue our book study of “Life of the Beloved” chapter 5, “Broken”. We talk about how our brokenness is unique to our story and that God wants to bring healing and restoration to us. We discuss the ways that we can often numb out to the pain and how God is inviting us to live a more full and abundant life by living our identity as beloved. One Thing We Love This Week:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “The first step to healing is not a step away from the pain, but a step toward it” - Henri Nouwen
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Mar 19, 2018 |
S03 Episode 09: Life of the Beloved - Blessed (Part 5)
30:07
This week we continue our book study “Life of the Beloved” chapter 4, “Blessed”. We talk about how the deepest affirmation of our being comes from God who desires to bless us. Many of us have experience so many words of destruction and negativity that need to be restored by true blessing from God and one another. Hope you enjoy this weeks podcast! One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: "To give someone a blessing is the most significant affirmation we can offer" - Henri Nouwen
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Mar 12, 2018 |
S03 Episode 08: Life of the Beloved - Taken (Part 4)
34:55
This week we dive into part 4 of “Life of the Beloved” chapter 3, “Taken”. We talk about how being chosen by God does not exclude others, rather it is personal and includes everyone. We also discuss how to unmask the world, declare truth over our lives, and cure the critical heart with gratitude. Hope you enjoy this weeks podcast! One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
"When we keep claiming the light, we will find ourselves becoming more and more radiant” - Henri Nouwen
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Mar 05, 2018 |
S03 Episode 07: Life of the Beloved - Becoming the Beloved (Part 3)
29:19
In this episode we discuss “Life of the Beloved” chapter 2, “Becoming the Beloved” We chat about how we can allow the knowledge of being the Beloved to become infused in our daily life, moment by moment. We also talk about living the abundant life and allowing our hearts to desire heaven. One Thing We Love This Week:
Journal Questions:
“Becoming the Beloved means letting the truth of our Belovedness become enfleshed in everything we think, say, or do.” - Henri Nouwen
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Feb 26, 2018 |
S03 Episode 06: Life of the Beloved - Being the Beloved (Part 2)
31:54
In this episode we discuss the first chapter of our book study “Life of the Beloved” called Being the Beloved. We talk about what it means to be Beloved and the voices that come against that truth. Join the Facebook discussion group here One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “Being the beloved expresses the core truth of our existence” - Henri Nouwen
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Feb 19, 2018 |
S03 Episode 05: Life of the Beloved - Introduction and Prologue (Part 1)
33:43
In this episode we begin our Lenten book study of “Life of the Beloved by Henri Nouwen. We begin with an introduction of who Henri Nouwen is and the Prologue. Join the Facebook discussion group here One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “Your story, is the story with which you can come to know God’s story better, and it is his story that makes your story worth living.”
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Feb 12, 2018 |
S03 Episode 04: Unity
32:00
In this episode we discuss the prayer of Jesus for unity, that we would all be one. We chat about how this is the heart of God and how we can grow in unity among denominations with our Christian brothers and sisters as the body of Christ. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: "That they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me"
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Feb 05, 2018 |
S03 Episode 03: Pruning
35:54
In this episode we talking about spiritual pruning and how its a difficult part of the process, but necessary to bring about growth and good fruit. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the keeper of the vineyard. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, and every branch that does beat fruit he prunes to make it even more fruitful." - John 15:1-2  |
Jan 29, 2018 |
S03 Episode 02: Abiding Together with Jenna Guizar
38:36
We are so excited to share this interview we did with our good friend Jenna Guizar. Jenna is the founder and creative director of Blessed is She, a Catholic women’s community committed to deepening a life of prayer starting with daily Scripture devotionals and supportive sisterhood. We had a great and heartfelt conversation with Jenna about her ministry, how she balances work and life with 4 children (including one cute newborn who was also a guest on our podcast!), and just her journey of faith and how she abides together with her people. Hope you enjoy this rich conversation. To find out more about Blessed is She check out BlessedIsShe.net, on facebook, on instagram, and on pinterest One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill his promises to her" - Luke 1:45
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Jan 22, 2018 |
S03 Episode 01: To Begin Again
40:03
Happy New Year! Welcome to Season 3! In this episode we talk about beginning again, our word of the year, not settling for mediocrity, and how to engage in your life with new perspective and openness to the love of God. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “The object of a New Year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul and a new nose; new feet, a new backbone, new ears, and new eyes. Unless a particular man made New Year resolutions, he would make no resolutions. Unless a man starts afresh about things, he will certainly do nothing effective.” ― G.K. Chesterton
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Jan 15, 2018 |
S02 Episode 14: Believe – Advent Part 4
29:26
In part 4 of our Advent series "Believe" we are super excited that we get to record together in person! We talk about what it means to believe and hold on to God's promises even in dark times and we reflect on Mary's "fiat". One Thing We Love This Week:
Here's the recipe for Heather's Potato Soup 1/2 cup butter 1/2 cup flour 3-4 cloves garlic 1 small onion chopped fine 6 medium potatoes washed, unpeeled, and diced medium 2 cups chicken stock 2 cups milk half pound of bacon diced and cooked till crispy salt, pepper, paprika to taste 1tbsp or more of chicken Bouillon paste for additional flavor at the end
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: "Blessed is she who has believed that the Lord would fulfill His promises to her" - Luke 1:45
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Dec 18, 2017 |
S02 Episode 13: Be Still – Advent Part 3
29:10
In our third part of our Advent series we discuss how to find stillness in the busy chaos of life. God speaks in the stillness and its there that we meet him and find the answers to our restless souls. One Thing We Love This Week:
Love is not a toy, and no paper will conceal it. Love is simply joy that I'm home. I don't care if the carpet is stained; we have food upon the table. I don't care if it's gonna rain, our room is warm and stable. Love is who we are, and no season can contain it. Love would never fall for that. Let love lead us, love is Christmas. Why so scared that you'll mess it up? Imperfection keeps you haunted. All you need is your best my love, that's all anyone ever wanted. Love is how we do, let no judgment over- rule it. Love I look to you, and I sing. Let love lead us, love is Christmas. Let love lead us, love is Christmas. Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
"If you can’t be still and wait, you can’t become what God created you to be.” - Sue Monk Kidd
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Dec 11, 2017 |
S02 Episode 12: Beloved - Advent Part 2
32:43
In this episode we continue our Advent series by talking about our identity as the beloved sons and daughters of God. In our deepest longing to be loved and known, God the Father calls us His beloved and invites into intimacy with Him. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “I kept running around in large or small circles always looking for someone or something to be able to convince me of my Belovedness. Self-rejection is the greatest enemy of the spiritual life because it contradicts the sacred voice that call us the “Beloved”. Being the Beloved expresses the core truth of our existence.” - Henri Nouwen |
Dec 04, 2017 |
S02 Episode 11: Belonging - Advent Part 1
32:07
In this episode we begin our 4 part Advent series with the topic of "Belonging". Here we talk about the gift of belonging to God's family and what this means to us as Christians. We also reflect on the women in the lineage of Jesus and how He redeemed their stories. One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions:
Journal Questions:
Quote to Ponder: “You are imperfect, you are wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.” - Brené Brown
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Nov 27, 2017 |
S02 Episode 10: Prayer
33:22
In this episode we talk about prayer as an encounter with Love, a conversational relationship with God. We talk about different ways to pray and connect with the heart of God, what to do in seasons of dryness, and cultivating the discipline of prayer in your schedule. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions
Journaling Questions
Quote to Ponder "You, eternal Trinity, are a deep sea. The more I enter you, the more I discover, and the more I discover, the more I seek you.” St Catherine of Siena
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Nov 20, 2017 |
S02 Episode 09: Abiding Together with Lisa Brenninkmeyer
36:19
In this episode we have a special guest and dear friend Lisa Brenninkmeyer! She is the founder of Walking With Purpose, a Catholic women’s Bible study that aims to bring women to a deeper personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We chat about how she seeks to abide with Christ in the midst of balancing busy family life and work and how to abide with others in community. Walking with Purpose bible studies WalkingWithPurpose.com Download this beautiful Abide in Me printable scripture verse. Check out this video about Walking With Purpose One Thing We Love This Week:
Discussion Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to ponder "if you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask for whatever you wish and it shall be done for you." John 15:7
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Nov 13, 2017 |
S02 Episode 08: What I Would Say To My Younger Self
37:39
In this episode we talk about advice and words of truth we wish we could give to our young adult selves. We speak about places of identity, calling, that your vocation is not the finish line, and the importance of allowing people with wisdom to speak into your life. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions
Journaling Questions
Quote to Ponder "Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire" - St Catherine of Sienna
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Nov 06, 2017 |
S02 Episode 07: Beauty Will Save the World
31:19
In this episode we talk about the quote "Beauty will Save the World" by Dostoevsky. We discuss how true beauty leads you outside of yourself to humanity and to the Divine Creator, whereas the counterfeits lead us away. We address how paying attention to our life allows us to experience epiphanies of beauty. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions
Journaling Questions
Quotes to Ponder “We do not want merely to see beauty... we want something else which can hardly be put into words- to be united with the beauty we see, to pass into it, to receive it into ourselves, to bathe in it, to become part of it."- CS Lewis “Deep in his heart, every man longs for a battle to fight, an adventure to live, and a beauty to rescue.” ― John Eldredge, Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul
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Oct 30, 2017 |
S02 Episode 06: Breakthrough vs Breakdown
31:16
In this episode we talk about how breakdown can lead to breakthrough if we allow God to enter into our pain. Join us as we discuss how to grow in deeper intimacy with God and experience healing and restoration. One Thing We Love This Week:
Holy Life-Giver Doctor of the desperate. Healer of everyone broken past hope, Medicine for all wounds, Fire of love, Joy of Hearts, fragrant Strength sparking Fountain, Protector, Penetrator, in You we contemplate how God goes looking for those who are lost and reconciles those who are at odds with Him Break our chains! You bring people together. You curl clouds, whirl winds, send rain on rocks, sing in creeks, and turn the lush earth green. You teach those who listen, breathing joy and wisdom into them. We praise You for these gifts, Light-giver, Sound of joy, Wonder of being alive, Hope of every person, and our strongest Good. Group Questions
Journal Questions
Quote to Ponder “In my deepest wound I saw Your glory, and it dazzled me” - St. Augustine
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Oct 23, 2017 |
S02 Episode 05: Hope in Seasons of Darkness
28:44
In this episode we discuss how to be a people of hope and not give into despair amidst the tragedy that we experience in the world. If we can keep the hope of heaven in our hearts, we can answer God's invitation to be a beacon of hope to a hurting world. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions 1. Do you find it hard to have hope in times of hardship? 2. What would it look like to speak hope into the life of someone that is hurting? 3. How can you grow the virtue of hope in your life? Journaling Questions 1. What are some the negative beliefs you have about God when you don’t see Him intervene in our problems the way that we think He should? 2. Do I believe that God can bring life to dead places? Quote to Ponder “Do not be dismayed but the brokenness of the world. All things break. And all things can be mended. Not with time, but with intention. So go. Love intentionally, unconditionally. The broken world waits in darkness for the light that is you” - L.R. Knots Ingredients:
Instructions:
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Oct 16, 2017 |
S02 Episode 04: The Art of Loving (with Chris Benzinger and Jake Khym)
49:29
Chris Benzinger and Jake Khym are back as our guests as we talk about the art of loving well. We journey into the topics of recognizing one another’s stories, championing dreams, how to bring the questions of our identity to God and fighting for (not against!) the ones we love. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions
Journaling Questions
Quote to Ponder “Love the Lord your God, and love one another. love one another as He loves. Love with strength and purpose and passion and no matter what comes against you. Don’t weaken. stand against the darkness, and love. That’s the way back into eden. That’s the way” - Francine Rivers
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Oct 09, 2017 |
S02 Episode 03: How to Pray for Your Children - and people important to you!
43:59
In this episode we feature our first guests! And they are men!! Jake Khym and Chris Benzinger join us as we delve into how to pray for your children, the blessing of their hearts and the hope we have for those whom God has placed in our lives. They not only capture how to father your children well, but also how to live as a child of God. One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Questions 1. How does the truth of living as a daughter/son of God the Father change how you experience His love? 2. How can you pray differently for your children or those who God has entrusted to you? Journaling Questions 1. How can I let the Father's love into my heart in a deeper way? 2. What are the "secrets" that you desire God the Father to speak to you heart? 3. If you're a parent, what are the "secrets" about their worth and identity do you need to speak to your children? Quotes to Ponder “Your children’s ‘little eyes’ gradually memorize and interpret with the heart that faith is one of the greatest inheritances you have received from your parents and ancestors…. and if you hand on the faith and live it well, that is where the transmission happens.” - Pope Francis
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Oct 02, 2017 |
S02 Episode 02: Rhythm, Rest and the Sabbath
32:48
"The purpose of journeying together in spiritual friendship and spiritual community (whether there are just two of you or whether you are in a small group) is to listen to one another's desire for God, to nurture that desire in each other and to support one another in seeking a way of life that is consistent with that desire. ” Ruth Haley Barton, Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation In this episode we talk about busyness vs rest, choosing to live the abundant life, what recreates us and the pace which God is setting in our hearts. Heather also recounts her harrowing battle with a scorpion while Michelle single handedly fights off sharks in the ocean! One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Question: 1. How do you feel about your pace of life right now? 2. Do you feel that you're really listening to your life? 3. What does an ideal sabbath day look like to you? Journal Questions: 1. What makes you come alive? a. spiritually (prayer+sacraments) b. socially (recreation) c. creatively (experience god's awe and wonder) d. physically (food+exercise) f. community 2. What do you need to say no to in this season of life? Quotes To Ponder: "The purpose of journeying together in spiritual friendship and spiritual community is to listen to one another's desire for God, to nurture that desire in each other and to support one another in seeking a way of life that is consistent with that desire." - Ruth Haley Barton, Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation “Present is living with your feet firmly grounded in reality, pale and uncertain as it may seem. Present is choosing to believe that your own life is worth investing deeply in, instead of waiting for some rare miracle or fairytale. Present means we understand that the here and now is sacred, sacramental, threaded through with divinity even in its plainness. Especially in its plainness." - Shauna Niequist, Present Over Perfect: Leaving behind frantic for a simpler, more soulful way of living.
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Sep 25, 2017 |
S02 Episode 01: A New Season of Belonging
30:02
“A tree can be only as strong as the forest that surrounds it." - Peter Wohlleben Welcome to Season 2 In this episode we talk about beginning a new season, the daily encounter with God, the gift of presence in the moment to moment and the hidden life of trees (as well as nuns with chainsaws!) Please check out our new website and discussion questions for each episode of the podcast! One Thing We Love This Week:
Group Question: 1. How do you need the people around you to speak into your life to help you grow? 2. What are some of the practical ways you can cultivate community in this season of life? 3. Who is God calling you to offer the "gift of presence" to? Journal Question: 1. What invitation is the Holy Spirit extending to you in the season? Quote To Ponder: "A tree can be on as strong as the forest that surrounds it." Peter Wohllenden
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Sep 18, 2017 |
S01 Episode 21: Joy of the Gospel (Part 5)
33:31
In this episode we wrap up our 5 part series on Pope Francis’s “Joy of the Gospel”. Sr. Miriam shares about her experiences at the USCCB Convocation that just finished in Orlando. We also discuss chapter 5, which is all about being Spirit filled evangelizers. This is our last episode of this season. We hope you’ll catch up on any previous episodes you missed and join us for a brand new season 2 on September 18, 2017! One Thing We Love This Week:
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Jul 10, 2017 |
S01 Episode 20: Joy of the Gospel (Part 4)
29:22
In this episode we discuss chapter 4 of Pope Francis's "Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel". In this episode we talk about how the call to move beyond our personal experience of faith to bring the Kingdom of God to the world. Also our need to learn from the poor in our midst and remember that we belong to each other. |
Jul 03, 2017 |
S01 Episode 19: Joy of the Gospel (Part 3)
28:33
In this episode we discuss chapter 3 of Pope Francis's "Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel". We focus on the importance of love as the heart of the Gospel and how we need to have an ongoing personal encounter with this Love before we can evangelize. We also talk about the Pope's thoughts on the maternal dimension of evangelization.
One Thing We Love This Week:
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Jun 26, 2017 |
S01 Episode 18: Joy of the Gospel (Part 2)
33:35
In this episode we talk about the second chapter of Pope Francis's "Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel". We discuss some of the challenges of today's world and of pastoral worker and how to not be a sour puss :) One Thing We Love This Week:
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Jun 19, 2017 |
S01 Episode 17: Joy of the Gospel (Part 1)
39:37
In this episode we begin part 1 of our 5 part series on Pope Francis's apostolic exhortation "Evangelii Gaudium - The Joy of the Gospel". We discuss the first chapter and what it means to be a missionary disciple who first encounters Christ personally.
One Thing We Love This Week:
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Jun 12, 2017 |
S01 Episode 16: Waiting
26:11
In this episode we talk about how God often calls us to wait and how we can find Him in the waiting. Sr. Miriam, Michelle, and Heather share insights and personal stories about how they have grown close to God in times of waiting and how the process is actually just as important as the end result. One Thing We Love This Week:
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Jun 05, 2017 |
S01 Episode 15: Pentecost
32:27
"In this episode we talk about Pentecost, the birthday of the Church, and how we can prepare our hearts for a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit. We focus in on 2 Corinthians 3:17 "Now the Lord is the Spirit and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom". Links mentioned in the conversation:
One Thing We Love This Week:
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May 29, 2017 |
S01 Episode 14: Fight like a Girl (Part 2)
37:12
"This episode is part 2 of our series on spiritual warfare called "Fight Like A Girl". We discuss two more essentials in spiritual warfare which are taking authority and declaration. We begin with the quote from the Chronicles of Narnia "Lucy buried her head in his mane to hide from his face, But there must have been magic in his mane. She could feel lion-strength going into her. Quite suddenly she sat up. “I’m sorry, Aslan,” she said. “I’m ready now.” “Now you are a lioness,” said Aslan. “And now all Narnia will be renewed. But come. We have no time to lose.” One Thing We Love This Week
In a small blender- 1 cup almond milk 1/3 cup plain greek yogurt 1 tablespoon coconut oil 1 tablespoon chia seeds Splash of vanilla extract 1 scoop Protein and Greens (the good stuff! tastes like a barnyard but it’s awesome!) Fresh fruit or frozen fruit (in lieu of ice cubes) to taste Enjoy! (just floss after eating all the chia seeds! ;) ) |
May 23, 2017 |
S01 Episode 13: Fight Like A Girl (Part 1)
34:22
Joan of Arc said “I am not afraid, I was born to do this” We are in a world at war and as women we are called and empowered to fight for truth, beauty, and goodness. Join us as we have a conversation about practical ways to spiritually battle and wear the armor of God. |
May 15, 2017 |
S01 Episode 12: We are an Easter People
32:36
In this episode we reflect on the quote “Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people and hallelujah is our song.” Saint John Paul II. We talk about what it means to be an Easter people and how to walk in the power of the resurrection in our own lives. One Thing We Love This Week
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May 08, 2017 |
S01 Episode 11: Striving vs. Abiding
32:51
"In this episode we reflect on the scripture John 15:4-5 where Jesus invites us to abide in His love. Many of us live a life of striving and struggle, rather than accepting the invitation of abiding and trust." One Thing We Love
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May 01, 2017 |
S01 Episode 10: Creating Community Wherever You Are
34:54
In this episode we discuss the power of community, the circles of community, the call to build one wherever you are and practical tips on how to do so! (Introverts-there is hope!) "We have all known the long loneliness and we have learned that the only solution is love and that love comes with community.” Dorothy Day, The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of the Legendary Catholic Social Activist One Thing We Love:
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Apr 24, 2017 |
S01 Episode 09: Unfailing Retreat Recap
39:05
In this episode we recap the beautiful retreat we were blessed to lead March 31-April 2 in British Columbia. We were joined by 200 women from Canada and the US who journeyed with us into the deep realities of God’s unfailing love, healing from shame, fixing our gaze on Jesus and being equipped (and sometimes uncomfortable!) by the Holy Spirit. One Thing We Love:
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Apr 17, 2017 |
S01 Episode 08: Feminine Genius Part 4: Maternity
36:32
In this episode we discuss maternity as part 4 of 4 in our series on the Feminine Genius. We talk about the incredible gift of being life-bearers in both spirit and body, the role of being a shelter for one another and the challenges of spiritual and physical motherhood. “The woman’s soul is fashioned as a shelter in which other souls may unfold.” - St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) One Thing We Love:
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Apr 10, 2017 |
S01 Episode 07: Feminine Genius Part 3: Generosity
28:30
In this episode we discuss generosity as part 3 of 4 in our series on the Feminine Genius. We talk about the power of God's love which gives us the ability for generosity, our potential fears in being generous and a woman’s amazing capacity to give the gift of love to the world. “The level of any civilization is the level of its womanhood. The reason is to be found in the difference between knowing and loving. When we know something, we bring it down to the level of our intelligence. Examples of abstract subjects must be given to children to suit the level of their minds. But when we love something, we always have to go up to meet it. For example, if we want to master music, we must obey its laws and meet its demands. Since a woman is loved, it follows that the nobler a woman is, the nobler man will have to be to be deserving of that love. That is why the level of any civilization is always the level of its womanhood.” - Venerable Fulton Sheen One Thing We Love: |
Apr 03, 2017 |
S01 Episode 06: Feminine Genius Part 2: Sensitivity
31:11
In this episode we continue out 4 part series on the Feminine Genius as we discuss the topic of "Sensitivity". We reference the Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem on the Dignity and Vocation of Women One Thing We Love:
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Mar 27, 2017 |
S01 Episode 05: Feminine Genius Part 1: Receptivity
30:28
In this episode we begin a 4 part series on the Feminine Genius as we discuss the topic of "Receptivity". We reference the Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem on the Dignity and Vocation of Women One thing we love: |
Mar 20, 2017 |
S01 Episode 04: Little Girl Arise
33:36
This week we talk about "Talitha koum" aka "Little girl arise" Mark 5:32-45 (nab) And he looked around to see who had done it. The woman, realizing what had happened to her, approached in fear and trembling. She fell down before Jesus and told him the whole truth. He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has saved you. Go in peace and be cured of your affliction.” While he was still speaking, people from the synagogue official’s house arrived and said, “Your daughter has died; why trouble the teacher any longer?” Disregarding the message that was reported, Jesus said to the synagogue official, “Do not be afraid; just have faith.” He did not allow anyone to accompany him inside except Peter, James, and John, the brother of James. When they arrived at the house of the synagogue official, he caught sight of a commotion, people weeping and wailing loudly. So he went in and said to them, “Why this commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but asleep.” And they ridiculed him. Then he put them all out. He took along the child’s father and mother and those who were with him and entered the room where the child was. He took the child by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum,” which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise!” The girl, a child of twelve, arose immediately and walked around. [At that] they were utterly astounded. He gave strict orders that no one should know this and said that she should be given something to eat. One thing we love:
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Mar 13, 2017 |
S01 Episode 03: Lent
31:33
On this episode we discuss Pope Francis's Lenten Letter and share our thoughts on how to make our Lenten commitments. Download here The One Thing We Love
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Mar 06, 2017 |
S01 Episode 02: Our Word for the Year
28:57
We each reveal our word for 2017 and how God is deeply speaking into our lives in this area, we also discuss how to listen to God's voice and how you can choose your word for the year. The One Thing That Is Bringing Me Joy
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Feb 27, 2017 |
S01 Episode 01: Coffee, Unity & Companionship
36:56
We discuss the quote, "if ever there comes a time when the women of the world come together purely and simply for the benefit of all mankind, it will be a force such as the world has never known." And we introduce our favorite things of the week! |
Feb 18, 2017 |