In this episode, we begin our four part Advent series revisiting the women doctors of the church with a discussion on hope through the life of St. Catherine of Siena. We discuss the virtue of hope, receiving and sharing Christ’s light in the darkness, and tips for making room for Christ this Advent season. We pray that you would receive the deep love of God as we begin this time of preparation for the birth of our Savior. For further listening, check out Restore the Beauty, a five part series on the women doctors of the church from Season 4 and be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Be Restored: Healing Our Sexual Wounds through Jesus’ Merciful Love - Dr. Bob Schuchts

Michelle’s one thing - Seeing Christmas - Karen Stacy

Heather’s one thing - Advent Playlist on Spotify

Other Books Mentioned - Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas - Ann Voskamp

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from today’s episode? 
2. Does your life, your marriage, your family, your church, or your small group proclaim good news to the world? And if not, why? What needs to be redeemed or restored?
3. Are you living a life rooted in hope? Where can you be light in the darkness for others? 
4. How can you make room for Christ this Advent season? 

Journal Questions:

1. How do you need “the Madman” to love you madly in the season of Advent this year?
2. Are there any particular fasts the Lord may be calling you to this Advent to create room for him in your heart?
3. What does the Holy Spirit want to birth or make new in you during this season of Advent?

Quotes to Ponder: 

“The love of Christ embraces all without exception. Fire of love, crazy over what You have made. Oh, divine Madman.” - Saint Catherine of Siena 

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

The spirit of the sovereign Lord is on me because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners. To proclaim the year of the Lord's favor and the day of vengeance of our God. To comfort all who mourn and provide for those who grieve in Zion. To bestow on them a crown of beauty, instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, and a garment of praise, instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. - Isaiah 61:1-3

This episode is sponsored by Kingdom Builders. Our sponsor for today’s episode is Kingdom Builders. If you have always felt welcome in church or never felt welcome in church. If you’ve never had a child, have many children or you long for a child. Single, married, divorced, or widowed. Young, old, rich or poor. A believing Christian or an atheist. If your life is a sinful mess or full of purity or anywhere in between, Kingdom Builders has something for you. Kingdom Builders creates opportunities for holy encounters for women. To learn more about Kingdom Builders and their latest project My Father’s Garden, go to BuildingThroughHim.com

In this episode, we speak with Magnus MacFarlane-Barrow and hear the story of his amazing ministry Mary’s Meals. Magnus shares how a personal conversion at Medjugorje led him to helping refugees in Bosnia, and how meeting a child named Edward in Malawi was the beginning of feeding 2 million children a day. Find out more about Mary’s Meals on youtube in the video Love Reaches Everywhere and watch as they celebrate the amazing milestone of feeding 2 million children a day! We invite you to follow Mary’s Meals online at https://www.marysmeals.org and on Instagram @marysmeals. 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Through the Heart of St. Joseph - Fr. Boniface Hicks 

Michelle’s one thing - Sweet Cross - Laura Phelps 

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s road trip with her youngest daughter Eva

Magnus’s one thing -  His Acorn Tree 

Other Books Mentioned -

The Shed That Fed a Million Children: The Mary’s Meals Story - Magnus MacFarlane- Barrow

Give: Charity and the Art of Living Generously- Magnus MacFarlane- Barrow

In this episode, we conclude our four part series on the identity of sisterhood. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss the idea of celebrating and championing other women to live out their unique God given call and purpose. Sister Miriam ends this series with a powerful meditation inviting us each to forgive and receive forgiveness in relationships that have wounded our understanding of true sisterhood. We pray this week would bring an opportunity for you to forgive, receive forgiveness and create a place for others at the table of sisterhood. Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Ashes to Skies - Shaylee Simeone

Michelle’s one thing - A Sisterhood Movie Night List

Heather’s one thing - Steady Love Playlist on Spotify

Other Books Mentioned -  Priestly Fatherhood - Fr. Jacques Philippe

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Take some to allow each person to answer the following questions in relation to your small group: What are you needing right now in this season of life and how can we bless you? How can we come alongside you? How can we champion you? What are you needing from anyone here specifically? What Holy Spirit dreams can we help midwife in you?
3. If you could be any age, what age would you be?
4. What stood out to you from Sister Miriam’s meditation at the end of today’s episode?

Journal Questions:

1. How have other women championed what the Lord has done in your life? How have you championed other women in what the Lord is doing in their lives?
2. Who is one woman in your life who you can ask: “What's on your heart? How can I come alongside you to help bring about the Holy Spirit’s work in your life?”
3. What images, relationships, or forgiveness came about through the prayer meditation at the end of today’s episode? What is God stirring in your heart as we conclude the series on sisterhood?

Quotes to Ponder: “Helping one another is part of the religion of our sisterhood.” - Jo March, 'Little Women'

Scripture for Lectio Divina: 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!”

And Mary proclaimed: My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—  holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, just as he promised our ancestors. Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. - Luke 1:39-56

In this episode, we continue our four part series on the identity of sister.  This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss the unique wounds that women often inflict on one another and our own experiences of jealousy, rivalry, and competition. We look at how assumptions can damage relationships and the role of intentional communication and transparency in repairing these wounds. We pray this week God would give you courage to behold women in your heart and be a gift to others through your femininity. Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Tiny Hands

Michelle’s one thing - Day Planner from Blessed Is She 

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s Steak Pie recipe 

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What makes you feel safe in relationships so that you’re able to trust the other?
3. What vows or agreements - such as “I will never trust women" or "I can’t trust women like I can men” - have you made because of the ways you were hurt by other women? Have you given Jesus permission to break these bonds?
4. Is there a relationship or situation where you have made assumptions about another woman’s behavior or beliefs? How can you bring healing to this relationship through transparency and communication? 

Journal Questions:

1. Re-read the story of Hagar and Sarah in Genesis 16. What does God want to speak to your heart through this story. 
2. What jealousy, fears, or comparisons cause you to assume the worst of other women? What would it look like to ‘fill that gap with trust?”
3. Take a moment to reflect on any memories that are brought to the surface during this episode. Where do you need healing from wounds caused by other women? Where do you need to repent or ask forgiveness for the ways in which you have wounded other women? 

Quotes to Ponder: 

“None of us is completely free of this fierce tendency to grasp and control. Every woman has something in herself inherited  from Eve, and she must search for the way from Eve to Mary. There is a bit of defiance in each woman which does not want to humble itself under any sovereignty. In each, there is something of that  desire which reaches for forbidden fruit." - St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Scripture for Lectio Divina:

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!”

And Mary proclaimed: My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—  holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm ;He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.  He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever,  just as he promised our ancestors.  Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. - Luke 1:39-56

This episode is sponsored by Monk Manual.

This week’s episode is sponsored by the Monk Manual 90-Day Planner. If you are looking for a great gift this holiday season, the Monk Manual has you covered. The Monk Manual is a daily system designed to help individuals intentionally focus on the things that matter most. Each planner comes with monthly, weekly, and daily pages to support and encourage a life that beautifully integrates a busy schedule with personal growth, room for play, and time for relationships, quiet reflection and spiritual growth. Each monthly, weekly, and daily page of the planner utilizes the PAR method (Prepare-Act-Reflect) so that you can begin each period with calm intentionality, prioritize what is most important as you live a full(er) life, and end contemplating life’s beauties and challenges. Monk Manual also just released The Sprout Journal for children, ages 8–12. Abiding Together listeners receive 10% off their purchase at checkout with the discount code: ABIDE10. Visit them online at monkmanual.com and https://monkmanual.com/pages/sprout-journal

In this episode, we continue our four part series on Sisterhood. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss what it looks like for women to form each other in community so that we can all live our dignity as daughters made in the image and likeness of God. We discuss milestone experiences in a woman’s life and the necessity of journeying through these seasons with other women. We pray this week you would continue to become the sister God created you to be! Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts!

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  The Advent series Adore: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Mediation with Fr. John Burns from Ave Maria Press. Check out Fr. John Burn’s video introduction to the Advent Series. 

Michelle’s one thing - Shannon from Chews Life and my rosary bracelet

Heather’s one thing - Debbie Herbeck of Be Love Revolution - @bloverevolution on instagram 

Other Books Mentioned - Essays on Woman (The Collected Works of Edith Stein) - Edith Stein

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Which women walked you through milestone experiences in your life and how did that impact your experience of these seasons? Are there experiences you had to figure out on your own? 
3. How have times of isolation impacted the guidance and sisterhood you want to provide for women who may be a season behind you in life?
4. How have women friendships and relationships been modeled for you throughout life? 
5. Where is God inviting you to take initiative to cast a new vision of sisterhood?

Journal Questions:

1. Ask yourself, "Am I the kind of friend, am I the kind of sister that I would like in my life?" Take some time to reflect on your answer and why or why not? Ask the Lord to reveal where you need to grow to be a better sister.
2. Ask the Lord to reveal the beautiful things about women who are sisters alongside of us. If you can, reach out to say thank you in a specific way.
3. If you feel you are lacking this authentic sisterhood, take an inventory of where you are and what you are longing for. Ask yourself, “What can I do to move this one step forward in creating or finding sisterhood right now?”

Quotes to Ponder: “In all these areas a greater presence of women in society will prove most valuable, for it will help to manifest the contradictions present when society is organized solely according to the criteria of efficiency and productivity, and it will force systems to be redesigned in a way which favors the processes of humanization which mark the civilization of love.” Pope Saint John Paul II, Letter to Women 

Scripture for Lectio Divina

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!”

And Mary proclaimed: My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—  holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm ;He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.  He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever,  just as he promised our ancestors.  Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. - Luke 1:39-56

This episode is sponsored by Ave Maria Press. 

“Through these uniquely beautiful reflections, you will encounter the quiet, safety, and rest of the hearts of Mary and Joseph, joining in their preparation for the birth of our Savior. You are warmly invited on the journey.” - Sr. Miriam James Heidland, S.O.L.T.

Of all the seasons of the year, Advent offers us perhaps the clearest sense of adventure and journey. It is a season for resetting our horizon, reframing our movement toward fullness in Christ. And even though Advent is brief, it is filled with spiritual riches. Yet, because Advent falls during a busy time of year, we often rush over or even miss the treasures God places before us in the Church. In Adore: A Guided Advent Journal for Prayer and Mediation, popular author and speaker Fr. John Burns and illustrator Valerie Delgado of Pax.Valerie will help you reclaim the sacred sense of longing and joyful hope at the heart of Advent  through reflections, art, prayers, and journaling, perfect for both individual and group use. Check out Fr. John Burn’s video introduction to the Advent Series. Use code ADORE at avemariapress.com to receive FREE Standard Shipping on Adore. Expires 12.31.21 *Only available in the contiguous US.

In this episode, we break open the scripture of the Visitation as we begin a four part series on the identity of sister - biological and spiritual. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss the model of speaking blessing into one another’s lives as we confirm and affirm each other’s truest identity. We chat about how Mary and Elizabeth needed one another’s story and resisted the temptations of comparison and competition in choosing celebration. We pray God would be the center of your relationships and sisterhoods! Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - ’Sisters’ from White Christmas 

Michelle’s one thing - My front porch in Fall and the season of Fall!

Heather’s one thing - Chicken Carnitas Recipe

Other Books Mentioned - 

Friendship in the Lord - Fr. Paul Hinnebusch 

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What does it mean to you to be a sister? What stirs in your heart as we begin this series? What needs to be healed in your heart to open up to the identity of sister?
3. Take a moment in your groups to identify and share what the Holy Spirit is doing in your life. Is sharing the work of the Holy Spirit a habit in your small groups and community?
4. What does it mean to be a sister who speaks blessing and affirms the truest identity of another with our words?

Journal Questions:

1. Do you proclaim a magnificat when the Lord has done great things in your life? Who do you celebrate with and share the good news with?
2. Have you ever felt like you had to fight for your seat at the table because of comparison or competition among women? How have you experienced a celebration mindset when it comes to your relationship with other women? 
3. Take a moment to pray and ask for sisterhood where you need it. Take a moment to pray and repent for areas that you need to own wounding others in the area of sisterhood. 

Quotes to Ponder: “All members of the family, each according to his or her own gift, have the grace and responsibility of building day by day the communion of persons, making the family ‘a school of deeper humanity’ “ - Gaudium et Spes, 52 

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  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!”

And Mary proclaimed: My soul glorifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me—  holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm ;He has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.  He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever,  just as he promised our ancestors.  Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home. - Luke 1:39-56

This episode is sponsored by Home School Connections.

Do you feel like your homeschool needs a change of pace? Would you like the comfort of knowing that your teen is learning from faithful, expert instructors? For learning with a faith-based focus, Homeschool Connections.com's online courses just might be the solution you've been looking for. Homeschool Connections dot com offers live, interactive, real-time online courses where you get Unlimited Access to over 400 recorded courses in math, writing, science, literature, and more. For more information, you can go online to Homeschool Connections dot com, and your teen can receive instruction taught in the Catholic Tradition.

In this episode, we complete our four part series on the identity of daughter. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss the full redemption God desires for his daughters emotionally, spiritually, sexually, and in a particular way as women, physically through our bodies and beauty. We chat about the practice of repentance and declaring the truth about ourselves, body and soul. We pray you would allow Christ to bring your whole self into communion with him in your identity as daughter so you may grow into a sister, a mother and a bride. Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  Healing Wounds Meditation with Dr. Bob Schutchts on the Hallow App. You must subscribe to Hallow to listen! 

Michelle’s one thing - The Every Sacred Sunday Mass Journal

Heather’s one thing - The Metanoia Series - Fr. Dave Pivonka, TOR and 4pm media

Other Books Mentioned - 

The Inner Voice of Love: A Journey Through Anguish to Freedom - Henri Nouwen

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Where do you feel at war with your body and where do you feel at home in your body? How is God inviting you to see your body as a blessing rather than a burden?
3. What beliefs about yourself have you felt inspired to renounce and repent of after today’s episode? What truth does Jesus desire to speak into your heart to fill this space.

Journal Questions:

1. Have you cursed your body or believed the lie that your body is too much or not enough? Take a moment to practice repentance and ask God to speak his truth into your body.
2. Can you imagine your body as a temple where the Holy Spirit is dwelling and what kind of temple does it look like? What is the Holy Spirit doing in this temple? Where is He illuminating? Where is He healing? Where's He moving? 
3. Are there areas brought up in the past few weeks that you would rather avoid than allow Jesus to redeem and restore? Take a moment to commit to moving through the cross towards the resurrection with trust that Christ desires your redemption.

Quotes to Ponder: 

Because their shame was twofold

and disgrace was proclaimed their portion,

They will possess twofold in their own land;

everlasting joy shall be theirs.

 Isaiah 61:7

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” - Ephesians 3:14-21

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 lovingly & thoughtfully designed by hand, and we hope that it invites you to say yes to God, one Sunday at a time. Use the promo code abide5 for $5 off your next purchase! Available now on our website, www.everysacredsunday.com/shop.

In this episode, we continue our four part series on the identity of daughter. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We discuss wounds from our childhood - rejection, abandonment and a failure to feel safe - and the lasting effects these wounds can have in our adult relationships. We chat about loving our younger selves with compassion, so that we can receive God’s unconditional love today. We pray you would allow the Divine Healer to look on your wounds with compassion this week! Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Mama Heidland’s Seafood Gumbo Recipe

Michelle’s one thing - Sacred Rest by by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith

Heather’s one thing - Change the Way You Think: A Conversation with Louie Giglio, Jennie Allen and Craig Groeschel 

Other Books Mentioned - 

Life Model: Living from the Heart Jesus Gave you - James Friesen

The Inner Voice of Love: A Journey Through Anguish to Freedom - Henri Nouwen

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. Are your childhood wounds healed places of glory or are they bandaged up, still hiding, and in need of Christ’s light?  
3. How do you see core wounds from childhood - abandonment, rejection or a gap created because your heart did not feel safe  - affecting your relationships today? Do you recognize any of the effects listed by Sister Miriam in the episode? How can you receive God’s restoration for you in these places?
4. What does it look like to welcome home the little parts of yourself with compassion and gentleness?

Journal Questions:

1. Are there particular memories from your childhood that this series has brought to the surface? Where do you need to hear the truth that the woundedness caused by others was not your fault? 
2. Try to find a picture of your younger self. What would you like to share with her or him? Are there critical words and judgements you would like to take back or words of affirmation and compassion you need to speak over your younger self?
3. Pray with Jesus’ words ‘be not afraid.’  How does He desire for you to receive this message when acknowledging wounds from your childhood?

Quotes to Ponder: “You keep listening to those who seem to reject you. But they never speak about you. They speak about their own limitations. They confess their poverty in the face of your needs and desires. They simply ask for your compassion. They do not say that you are bad, ugly, or despicable. They say only that you are asking for something they cannot give and that they need to get some distance from you to survive emotionally. The sadness is that you perceive their necessary withdrawal as a rejection of you instead of as a call to return home and discover your true belovedness.”  - Henri Nouwen

“A part of you was left behind very early in your life: the part that never felt completely received. It is full of fears. Meanwhile, you grew up with many survival skills. But you want yourself to be one. So you have to bring home the part of you that was left behind. That is not easy, because you have become quite a formidable person, and your fearful part does not know if it can safely dwell with you. Your grown-up self has to become very childlike—hospitable, gentle, and caring—so your anxious self can return and feel safe.” - Henri Nouwen

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” - Ephesians 3:14-21

This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautiful Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries or other Catholic gifts, look no farther than House of Joppa. Each product is curated from artisans throughout the world, and is designed to uplift your spirit and share the beauty of our Catholic faith. If you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, head over to their website in the show notes. My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion, Mini Mary Garden and Miraculous Medal rosary. Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.

In this episode, we continue our four part series on the identity of daughter. This episode is now available on youtube: https://youtu.be/0TJKUIE1HOQ. We discuss the core needs of early childhood - to be seen, known and loved - and how this time is crucial in learning to trust and receive. We share our fears of being seen as needy or as a burden to others as well as what counterfeit needs are vs actual needs. We chat about the healing that we experience when we allow God the Father to love us in the places we didn’t receive what we needed as a child. Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The life of our recently passed SOLT sister, Sister Maria of Merciful Love

Michelle’s one thing - The Sisters of Life and The Litany of Trust 

Heather’s one thing - Restore the Glory Podcast Healing in Marriage Series

Other Books Mentioned - Life Model: Living from the Heart Jesus Gave you - James Friesen

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you felt seen, known and loved by God and others recently? In what areas of your heart and life do you still long to experience that? 
3. What counterfeit needs (I need a break, I need to watch tv, etc.) do you often substitute for your real need (I need to be acknowledged, seen, loved)? How can you take time to pause and ask yourself what you truly need in particular moments throughout your day? 
4. Do fears of rejection or being seen as ‘needy’ prevent you from expressing your needs and desires to those who want to love you? How can you better articulate your needs to your community, family, and God? 
5. How is the fruit of joy abundant and fragrant in your life? If not, what is at the root of that?

Journal Questions:

1. Are there areas of your heart that you have shut down or relationships you have ‘canceled’ because someone did not meet your need to be seen, known and loved? How might God be asking you to give yourself or another person a new chance?
2. Take a moment to reflect on any memories or experiences from your childhood where you did not feel seen, known and loved. Invite God to restore and heal these moments and fill any gaps that may have been created.
3. Write down some practical ways you can notice, affirm and show greater love towards those who have been entrusted to you in your family and community. 

Quotes to Ponder: “Your great trust in Me forces me to continuously grant you graces. You have great and incomprehensible rights over My Heart, for you are a daughter of complete trust." -  Jesus to St. Faustina

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” - Ephesians 3:14-21

This episode is sponsored by Corda Candles.

Connect with the saints through scent, with handcrafted CORDA candles. Each unique scent is directly inspired by saints and the faith, and custom blended in house. As you burn the candle and enjoy the custom scent, there’s a tangible, concrete connection to the holy men and women who have gone before us.
Help support SOLT, Sr. Miriam’s order, by purchasing the Cloistered Heart candle, inspired by St. Elizabeth of the Trinity. Its contemplative notes of cherry and violet are fresh and clean. This exclusive candle was commissioned by the Abiding Together podcast and 15% is donated to SOLT. It’s available for a limited time only, now through November 30, 2021.
There are many more candles to explore, including ones inspired by Our Lady of Guadalupe, St. Michael the Archangel, and Night Prayer. Shop online at www.cordacandles.com and receive 10% off with promo code ABIDE, now through October 31, 2021.

In this episode, we begin a four-part series on the identity of daughter. This episode is now offered in video on youtube! We speak about the building blocks of daughterhood: trusting the heart of God and receiving our identity from the Father. We discuss the foundational importance of believing we are beloved children even when there are parts of our humanity and frailty we do not love. We pray that you may behold the Father this week and allow him to behold you with delight! Be sure to subscribe to the Abiding Together Podcast on YouTube to watch our video podcasts! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  Renew Face and Body Cream from Rooted for Good

Michelle’s one thing - the entire team at Spirit Juice Studios

Heather’s one thing - Be Formed Adult Faith Formation with Fr. Burke Masters through the Diocese of Joliet

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you received the identity of a daughter (or son) from the Father? What are some practical ways to stay rooted in the identity of daughter of God?
3. When the Lord looks at you and says, “you are my beloved daughter (son) with who I am well pleased”, what is your initial reaction? What would it look like to live this reality at the forefront everyday?
4. When have you experienced the Father delighting in you and what did that look like?
5. Does your mission (what you do) flow from your identity as daughter of God or do you tend to find your identity in the things you do?

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to picture your heart as a garden. Rather than digging through the dirt to find the roots of problems, imagine yourself playing in the dirt with the Father. With holy curiosity, ask what does the Father want to reveal to you about your identity as a beloved daughter? 
2. Pray Sister Miriam’s prayer “Father, open my heart to the truth of who I am.” Listen for what the Father wants to say to you and write it down. 
3. Write down some scriptures that help you stay rooted in the truth of who God says you are as a beloved daughter. You can google something like “scriptures about child of God” or “ scriptures about God’s love”.

Quotes to Ponder: “On first beholding created woman, man must surely have thought: “God gave you to me.” He said as much, though in different words—but he said as much (Gn 2:23). Awareness of gift and givenness is clearly written into the biblical Creation account. For man, woman is first an object of awe and wonder. “ - Saint Pope John Paul II, A Meditation on Givenness

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth derives its name. I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.” - Ephesians 3:14-21

This episode is sponsored by Rooted for Good.

Rooted for Good hand makes premium all natural products that feel amazing and work really well! Enhance your skincare experience with Rooted and join the growing number of satisfied customers across the US and beyond who are switching to Rooted and going all-natural. On top of the amazing benefits and affordable pricing, using Rooted products makes a difference for others as well. Every time you choose our all natural premium products 10% of your purchase goes to help someone in need in a developing country! From Coffee Exfoliators & Sugar Scrubs, to foaming Face Wash & luxurious Bath Salts, to Premium Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils and everything in between, make Rooted for Good your source for all natural healthy living. Rooted provides an option to choose all natural living that resonates with your Catholic values. See all of our amazing products and read the stories of the lives that are being blessed through Rooted purchases at RootedForGood.com and use the Abide10 promo code and enjoy 10% off your next order.

In this episode, we discuss how God meets us where we are rather than where we pretend to be and invites us into a never-ending love. We chat about acknowledging the deeper desires and longings in our hearts with a holy curiosity and responding to God’s pursuit of us. We also share a sneak peek of the depths we have planned for the rest of this season! We pray you would experience the peace of floating in the deep love he has for you this week through the grace of surrender, trust, and receptivity!

Sister Miriam’s one thing -   The Carmelite Sisters of Alhambra

Heather’s one thing - Will and Walker from Rings of the Lord and their handmade rosaries

Michelle’s one thing - The Given Forum. Applications for the 2022 Given Forum will be released on November 1, 2021.

Other Books Mentioned -

The Fulfillment of All Desire: A Guidebook for the Journey to God Based on the Wisdom of the Saints -  Dr. Ralph Martin

Broken Gods: Hope, Healing, and the Seven Longings of the Human Heart - Gregory K. Popcak

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What are some ways you allow God and others to only meet you where you pretend to be rather than where you truly are?  
3. In the times you have been called out into the deep - what has been the difference between feeling like you are drowning in problems and feeling like you are floating in God’s love and mercy? 
4. What identity are you most looking forward to exploring the depths of this season - daughter, sister, mother, bride?

Journal Questions:

1. What is one area of your life where you feel the need to pretend in front of the Lord? What stands in the way of you trusting God’s love for you right where you are?
2. What are the deeper desires, aches, and longings beneath the areas of your life that you are managing well on your own? What fears or insecurities keep you from surrendering these desires to the Lord? 
3. Where have you already seen Christ fulfill deep desires and longings in your life? Remember and write down the ways the Lord has already moved and take courage for the next season.

Quotes to Ponder: “The feeling remains that God is on the journey, too.” - St. Teresa of Avila

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “Deep calls to deep in the roar of your torrents, and all your waves and breakers sweep over me.” - Psalm 42:8

This episode is sponsored by CatholicMatch.

In a time where online dating is the new norm, CatholicMatch provides a place to meet other singles who share your faith. Unlike other dating websites that encourage casual relationships, CatholicMatch primarily strives to help singles connect for the purpose of Sacramental Marriage. We also provide a community where Catholics can share their challenges of living life in a single state and make new friends. We receive new stories every week from Catholic couples who met on CatholicMatch. You can set up a free account today in just a couple minutes and use their app or website to start connecting with other singles through messaging or video chat. Create your free profile today and start meeting other single Catholics now!

In this episode, we discuss God’s unchanging sovereignty and love despite the turmoil and constant changes brought on by the pandemic and other current crises. We chat about the illusion of control, our litanies to God of what we would change if we could, and the peace that comes only with surrender. We discuss the importance of allowing ourselves to experience our emotions fully in the face of recent disappointments, while always choosing to submit our feelings under the truth of God. We pray that this week you would know how much God delights in your trust as he works a new thing in your life! 

Sister Miriam’s one thing -  Organic Rose Hips for tea and other fun uses 

Heather’s one thing -  ID Intentional Disciples

Heather’s other one thing - Seasons Change - United Pursuit

Michelle’s one thing - Man Your Post: Learning to Lead Like St. Joseph - Duane and Carrie Daunt. Use the code MANYOURPOST20 at checkout for 20% off.

Michelle’s other one thing  - Our Lady of Podcast - Gene Monterastelli

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. We were hoping to return to a new normal by now but it seems we are in a constant state of change and a departure from normal. How are you seeing God through your current situation?
3. What “ancient paths” might God be inviting you to walk in during this season that will keep yourself in His light and your eyes on His eternal perspective? 
4. Michelle shares, “Our sense of control is just an illusion and His sovereignty is the only thing we can trust.” Where is God inviting you to surrender your desire for control? 

Journal Questions:

1. Where have you made agreements with powerlessness and hopelessness, telling God that a situation will not change? Take a moment to surrender these agreements and ask God to fill you with his truth.
2. In the last 18 months, what fruit have you seen emerge maybe unexpectedly from ground you have tilled with God for months or years? 
3. How can you practice feeling your emotions fully but submitting your emotions to the truth of God? Are there any particular feelings or emotions you want to surrender to God’s truth right now?
4.  How could greater trust in God’s sovereignty free you from the need to make things happen yourself? Take a moment to recount how God has been faithful in the past.

Quotes to Ponder: “Night: we cannot stop it, or hasten it; it just comes, and it teaches us every twenty-four hours that we are not in complete control.” - Father Iain Matthew, The Impact of God

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens. A time to give birth, and a time to die; time to plant, and a time to uproot the plant.” - Ecclesiastes 3:1-2

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

At Chews Life, it is our mission to equip all Catholics with Rosaries for life. Chews Life believes that even the youngest Catholic can develop a devotion to the Rosary and come to know our Mother Mary. Their silicone Rosaries make this possible. Children discover through their senses, especially touch. Just as a baby knowingly caresses their mother’s face, so too their little hands will come to know the Rosary and cherish it.  

Chews Life also makes Rosaries for adults! Chews Life’s Rosaries are designed in such a way that no one can make the excuse that they don’t have time to pray the Rosary. Chews Life’s Rosaries are actually Rosary bracelets so that they are with you all day and easily accessible. These Rosary bracelets also feature a “bookmark” crucifix charm so that if you don’t have time to get through a whole Rosary at once, you can use this charm to hold your place until you can continue your prayer.

Head over to the Chews Life website right now to check out their brand new, limited edition Fall Collection. This collection and so much more are available at www.chewslife.com and use the code ABIDE10 to get 10% off your next purchase!

In this episode, we reconnect after our summer break to discuss the ways God has grown us this summer and our hopes for the season to come. We marvel together at how the Lord continues to heal us, remind us of His truth, and invite us to abide deeper in who He is and who He says we are. We chat about how the maturation that comes with repentance and the willingness to start over again with God. We pray that God will do a new thing in you as you join us on the journey this season!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Separate Vocations of Man and Woman - Edith Stein from Essays on Woman (The Collected Works of Edith Stein) - Edith Stein

Heather’s one thing - Speak the Unspoken Podcast S02 E02: The power of story with Heather Kyhm

Michelle’s one thing - Fr. Dave Pivonka, Dr. Bob Rice, and the entire orientation team at Franciscan University of Steubenville

Discussion questions:    

1. What stood out to you from this week’s episode?
2. What areas did you learn you needed to grow over this summer? How did God stretch you, humble you, invite you to abide more?
3. In what ways would you like to begin again today? What must you repent of? What must you turn your eyes away from to be able to see Christ looking at you?

Journal Questions:

1. How did you see the Lord using events or memories of your past to grow you, mature you and heal you this summer?
2. What desires would you like to name for the Lord to fulfill as we move into a new season? 
3. How can you let the Lord love you where you are most vulnerable and dependent?

Quotes to Ponder: “Always, we begin again.” - St. Benedict 

Scripture for Lectio Divina -   “It is not that I have already taken hold of it or have already attained perfect maturity,  but I continue my pursuit in hope that I may possess it, since I have indeed been taken possession of by Christ Jesus. Brothers, I for my part do not consider myself to have taken possession. Just one thing: forgetting what lies behind but straining forward to what lies ahead, I continue my pursuit toward the goal, the prize of God’s upward calling, in Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 3:12-14

In this episode we discuss the virtue of Christian Hope through a discussion on Pope Francis’s homily from the 2020 Easter Vigil, A Right to Hope. We chat about hope as more than mere optimism or wishful thinking, but rather a deep trust that God keeps his promises and He is who he says he is. We discuss the necessity of practicing hope in patience and humility as God reveals the mystery of how He is making all things new. This is our last episode of Season 9 and we pray that you may receive the gift of hope this summer. We will see you for Season 10 in the Fall!

Michelle’s one thing - Summer Reading List

Heather’s one thing -  Our Patreon Supporters!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - All those who make the podcast happen: Lizzie, Kristina, Kathy, Emily, and Rebecca.

Sister Miriam’s other one thing - Easy Chickpea Greek Salad

Other Links Related to This Episode:

Read Pope Francis’s 2020 Easter Homily

Live Differently Mug from the Abiding Together Shop

Season 2 Episode 5: Hope in Seasons of Darkness

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What are the things that stand in the way of you receiving the gift hope? Are there specific areas where you have been hurt in the area of hope?
3. How can we live into the virtue of hope that promises heaven is our home and God is working all things towards our redemption and restoration? 
4. How do our lives look different because we are a people of hope?

Journal Questions:

1. What wounds does the Lord want to heal in you in order to restore hope and trust in his promises?
2. Are there situations of disappointment that have stolen your hope in Jesus?
3. Where is God inviting you to practice patience and humility to receive hope?

Quote to Ponder: “At dawn the women went to the tomb. There the angel says to them: “Do not be afraid. He is not here; for he has risen.” They hear the words of life even as they stand before a tomb... And then they meet Jesus, the giver of all hope, who confirms the message and says: “Do not be afraid.”Do not be afraid, do not yield to fear: This is the message of hope. It is addressed to us, today.” - Pope Francis’s Easter Vigil Homily, 2020

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “After the sabbath, as the first day of the week was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven, approached, rolled back the stone, and sat upon it. His appearance was like lightning and his clothing was white as snow. The guards were shaken with fear of him and became like dead men. Then the angel said to the women in reply, “Do not be afraid! I know that you are seeking Jesus the crucified. He is not here, for he has been raised just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples, ‘He has been raised from the dead, and he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him.’ Behold, I have told you.” Then they went away quickly from the tomb, fearful yet overjoyed, and ran to announce* this to his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them on their way and greeted them. They approached, embraced his feet, and did him homage. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”” - Matthew 28: 1-10

In this episode we discuss the idea of personal revival through the power of the Holy Spirit, repentance and reawakening. We discuss the necessity of an interior death in order to experience resurrection and the fears that prevent us from living in the power of the Holy Spirit. We chat about how to identify areas in our life that are dormant or require repentance in order to experience new life and chat about the importance of community in bringing about revival. We pray the Holy Spirit would move mightily in your life this week!

Michelle’s one thing - Habits for Holiness: Small Steps for Making Big Spiritual Progress - Fr. Mark Mary Ames, CFR

Michelle’s other one thing - A Work of God: Images of Renewal - Franciscan Friars of the Renewal

Heather’s one thing -  My daughter Maria coming home from Franciscan University

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Healthy Granola Recipe

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Who do you know that is living in the power of the Resurrection or Holy Spirit power? What characteristics define this kind of revival?
3. If we cannot experience resurrection and revival without experiencing dying, what needs to be put to death within you? What fears, hesitancies, or comforts keep you from experiencing the Holy Spirit’s power in this way? 
4. Revival starts with us. How can you make more room for the Holy Spirit?

Journal Questions:

1. What areas of your life do you need to repent in order to experience revival? Where are the areas in your life where something is dead that needs to be revived?
2. Where are the areas you may have blocked or avoided the power of the Holy Spirit in your life? Where are the areas you have given full permission to the Holy Spirit and what fruit has that created?

Quote to Ponder: “Let us implore from God the grace of a new Pentecost… May tongues of fire, combining burning love of God and neighbor with zeal for the spread of Christ’s Kingdom, descend on all present!” — Pope Benedict XVI, homily in New York City, 4/19/2008 

Scripture for Lectio Divina:  “In the last days, God says, I will pour out My Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.” - Acts 2:17

This episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.

This week’s episode is sponsored by House of Joppa.  If you are looking for beautiful Catholic home décor, jewelry, art, rosaries or other Catholic gifts, look no farther than the House of Joppa. Each product is curated from artisans throughout the world, and is designed to uplift your spirit and share the beauty of our One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic faith. If you are looking for something for yourself or a special gift for a friend, head over to their website in the show notes. My favorite products are their Vintage Sacred Heart Medallion, Mini Mary Garden and Joyful Mystery themed rosary.

Abiding Together listeners receive 15% off their purchase at checkout with discount code: ABIDE15.  Visit them online at https://www.houseofjoppa.com or on Instagram @houseofjoppa.

In this episode we discuss the power of Christ to untie the knots of bitterness and unforgiveness in our life as we grow in holiness. We discuss the lies that come from our wounds and cause us to make agreements and judgements because of our hurt. We chat about the simple, but sometimes hard path towards greater freedom in Christ. We close our time together with a beautiful prayer led by Sister Miriam. We pray you would allow the Lord to untie the knots in your life this week!

Michelle’s one thing - Rosemary Fig Sauce

Heather’s one thing -  Loved As I Am - Sister Miriam James Heidland

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Forgiveness Meditation and Talk on Forgiveness by Fr. John Burns and Sr. Miriam 

Other Episodes on This Topic: 

S05 E24: Forgiveness 

S05 E15: Healing the Whole Person - An Interview with Dr. Bob Schuchts

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What does it mean for you to be tenderhearted? Are there particular situations or experiences that have caused you to close your heart?
3. What is the biggest or most visible knot in your life? Are you ready to be honest, open and willing to address this area with the Lord? Why or why not?
4. What is an area that you struggle with forgiveness?

Journal Questions:

1. What agreements have you made - I am… I’m not… I will never… I will always… - when you have been hurt? Take a moment to practice forgiveness and breaking these agreements and untying these knots.
2. What beliefs about yourself or judgements about others are acting as a knot in your life? What is the origin of these beliefs and judgements and what does the Lord say is true?

Quote to Ponder: “Everyone thinks forgiveness is a lovely idea until he has something to forgive.” - C.S. Lewis

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “All bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, and reviling must be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ.” - Ephesians 4:31-32

This episode is sponsored by MyCatholicDoctor.

Our sponsor for today’s episode is MyCatholicDoctor. For more than 2000 years, the Catholic Church has led the world in healthcare, answering the call of Jesus Christ to heal the sick and proclaim the kingdom of God is near. At MyCatholicDoctor, they answer that call by providing evidence-based, holistic Catholic healthcare to all of God’s people. 

MyCatholicDoctor is a nationwide organization that brings a network of faithful medical professionals to patients through video visits, in-person care, and a referral network. As a telehealth provider, they can initiate your medical care virtually, order any necessary labs or imaging, and send prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choice. We provide services of a range of specialties such as primary care, functional medicine, physical therapy, pediatric care, sleep medicine, and addiction treatment. 

Their team of physicians, nurse practitioners, and certified educators meet you where you are in your suffering, and accompany you on a path to healing. They integrate Catholic spirituality into their care to ensure God comes first in the decisions, treatments and procedures to heal your mind, body, and soul.

Not only do they work with patients and their families, but they also collaborate with schools and universities to meet the needs of their students through our telehealth resources. When you visit MyCatholicDoctor, you will find a provider who not only meets your immediate medical needs, but exceeds your expectations for the level of compassion, understanding, and appreciation for you as sons and daughters of Christ.

To find out more about the services they provide, meet their providers, and schedule an appointment, visit mycatholicdoctor.com. As a special thank you to our Abiding Together listeners, they are offering $25 off for your first appointment through May 30th. Please visit mycatholicdoctor.com/abide25 to claim your gift certificate.

In this episode we discuss the mystery and gift of the Church in the midst of scandals, disappointments, heartaches and failures. We discuss the “both and” nature of the Church that delivers the grace of the sacraments and is made up of only sinners. We chat about the family of the Church and our role as women to help reconcile and restore the broken places through transparency and repentance. We pray you would notice the Holy Spirit working a new thing within your heart this week. 

Michelle’s one thing -  Be Transformed - Dr. Bob Schuchts

Heather’s one thing - Restore the Glory Podcast with Dr. Bob Schutchts and Jake Khym

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Broken gods: Hope, Healing, and the Seven Longings of the Human Heart - Dr. Gregory Popcak

Other Episodes on This Topic: 

Season 4, Episode 1: On Summer and Scandal

Season 4, Episode 10: Joint Restoration: An Interview with Fr. Josh Johnson

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Have you ever felt like you didn’t want to continue being a part of the Church? What experiences brought you back into communion? Where do you still need to experience reconciliation and restoration with the Church?
3. How do we, especially as women, create safe places for people to repent and for victims to be reconciled to the Church?
4. What areas does God want to redeem, restore and make new in your own life to bring restoration to the Church?

Journal Questions:

1. What trauma have you experienced at the hands of the Church and have you been able to forgive? What wounds have you caused to others within the Church and have you been able to repent?
2. What wounds is God inviting you to bring to the foot of the cross this week? Take a moment to ask Jesus to meet you there and do for you what you cannot do for yourself.

Quote to Ponder: “How baffling you are, oh Church, and yet how I love you! How you have made me suffer, and yet how much I owe you! I would like to see you destroyed, and yet I need your presence. You have given me so much scandal and yet you have made me understand what sanctity is. I have seen nothing in the world more devoted to obscurity, more compromised, more false, and yet I have touched nothing more pure, more generous, more beautiful. How often I have wanted to shut the doors of my soul in your face, and how often I have prayed to die in the safety of your arms.” - Carlo Carretto, Letters from the Desert

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, ‘Do not weep.’ He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, ‘Young man, I tell you, arise!’ The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother.’ Luke 7:13-15

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

At Chews Life, it is their mission to equip all Catholics with Rosaries for life. Chews Life believes that even the youngest Catholic can develop a devotion to the Rosary and come to know our Mother Mary. Their silicone Rosaries make this possible. Children discover through their senses, especially touch. Just as a baby knowingly caresses their mother’s face, so too their little hands will come to know the Rosary and cherish it.  

Chews Life also makes Rosaries for adults! However, Chews Life’s Rosaries are designed in such a way that no one can make the excuse that they don’t have time to pray the Rosary. Chews Life’s Rosaries are actually Rosary bracelets so that they are with you all day and easily accessible. These Rosary bracelets also feature a “bookmark” crucifix charm so that if you don’t have time to get through a whole Rosary at once, you can use this charm to hold your place until you can continue your prayer. These and so much more are available at www.chewslife.com! Use code ABIDE10 to receive 10% off your purchase (not valid with other discounts).

In this episode we discuss Pope Benedict XVI’s 2017 address to artists from the Sistine Chapel. We chat about the power of beauty to draw us in, pierce our hearts with longing, and lead us to the Beautiful One, the Creator God Himself. We discuss the importance of pausing to consider our reaction to beauty and how surrendering our fear of being wounded can lead us to the intimate encounter with God we all long for. We pray this week you would meet God in the ache uncovered by beauty!

Michelle’s one thing - Through the Heart of St. Joseph - Father Boniface Hicks 

Michelles other one thing - My Backyard Lights

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Jane Austen Coloring Book 

Heather’s one thing - My “Fruit Salad” Tree! - 5 fruits on one tree...amazing.

Other Links mentioned in this episode:

Address of His Holiness Benedict XVI I at the Meeting with Artists, Sistine Chapel, November 21, 2009

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you experienced beauty in your everyday life recently and how did it impact you?
3. What does it mean for our lives to be works of art - for us to live well, pray well, play well, etc?
4. Do we allow ourselves to be unsettled by beauty and experience the ache and longing for God that is provoked by the beautiful?

Journal Questions:

1. What does your life look like as a masterpiece created by the Creator? Where are the areas that needs to be chiseled out and formed? 
2. Where are the areas that we keep on taking the hammer out of his hand? 
3. How has beauty pierced your heart recently? What keeps you from allowing this to happen often?

Quote to Ponder: “Beauty gives us wings, lifting us up so that we may soar to the transcendent and rise to greatness.” - Pope Benedict XVI 

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “One thing I have asked of the Lord; this is what I desire: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and seek Him in His temple.” - Psalm 27:4 

This episode is sponsored by Chews Life.

At Chews Life, it is their mission to equip all Catholics with Rosaries for life. Chews Life believes that even the youngest Catholic can develop a devotion to the Rosary and come to know our Mother Mary. Their silicone Rosaries make this possible. Children discover through their senses, especially touch. Just as a baby knowingly caresses their mother’s face, so too their little hands will come to know the Rosary and cherish it.  

Chews Life also makes Rosaries for adults! However, Chews Life’s Rosaries are designed in such a way that no one can make the excuse that they don’t have time to pray the Rosary. Chews Life’s Rosaries are actually Rosary bracelets so that they are with you all day and easily accessible. These Rosary bracelets also feature a “bookmark” crucifix charm so that if you don’t have time to get through a whole Rosary at once, you can use this charm to hold your place until you can continue your prayer.

These and so much more are available at www.chewslife.com! Use code ABIDE10 to receive 10% off your purchase (not valid with other discounts).

In this episode we discuss the importance of encountering God through play and leisure. We talk about how we remember what we played as children and when we stopped playing for a more serious, busy or productive adulthood. We chat about God’s desire to restore our playful hearts so that we may come as children with trust, dependence and surrender.

Michelle’s one thing -  My Heart - Corinna Luyken

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Kid with Bruce Willis

Heather’s one thing - Joyful - Dante Bowe

Other Links mentioned in this episode:

S08 E11: Holey, Wholly, Holy: Living an Integrated Life

Michelle’s Fallow Blog Post

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How do you understand ‘play’ - as a waste of time, unnecessary,frivolous or as a sign of trust, surrender and dependence?
3. What are small acts of play, rest and leisure that you enjoy? What are some new ways to incorporate play and leisure that God delights in into your life?

Journal Questions:

1. What is the history of play in your life? Reflect on what, when, and how you played as a child. When did you stop playing and why? How might God want to reclaim and redeem play in your life as an adult?
2. How might you need to replace efficiency, business and work of being an adult with the joy and delight of being child-like? How does the Father delight in you as you play?

Quote to Ponder:  The true object of all human life is play. Earth is a task garden; heaven is a playground.” - G.K. Chesterton

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Truly I tell you,” He said, “unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. - Matthew 18:3 

This episode is sponsored by Reform Wellness. 

This week’s episode is sponsored by Reform, a Christ-centered functional medicine and holistic wellness practice. Reform redefines health as the state of your body and soul. Reform’s mission is to empower the whole person to find well-being in Christ and become the best versions of themselves physically, mentally and spiritually. Through their unique faith-based approach, Reform takes your symptoms as cues to address root causes of disease.

Reform works with private clients, corporate teams, religious communities, and educational institutions from around the world, both in person and online. Whether you’re dealing with chronic health issues or having trouble sleeping and managing stress, Reform can help you feel and live better. They offer valuable information, educational resources, and lifelong tools to improve your well-being.

We highly recommend their six-week online class: Reform Online LIVE, which dives into their nine wellness pillars to teach integrated health for the mind, body, and soul. In the past year, our Abiding Together hosts have taken the class and are still benefiting from the fruits.

Reform is for everyone because everyone is made for wholeness and holiness. If you want to rid yourself of physical and spiritual toxins, optimize nutrition and sleep, move your body in a way that supports you, learn to play and rest, and align your identity and health with God, it’s time to reform.

You can find more information about Reform on their website, reformwellness.co and on IG @reform_wellness Reform is offering a discount for all of our listeners on their upcoming May Workshop: Mary and Motherhood. Use code “Abide15” for your exclusive discount by April 30th.

In this episode we complete the four part mini-series Herstory on women in Scripture with the story of Esther. We discuss the providence in the behind the scenes work of God and how God’s call on one person’s life can cause a ripple effect within a nation. We chat about God’s design and plan for each of us and how he desires to use your unique influence to build the kingdom right where you are. We pray that you would receive God’s courage to live out your feminine genius to bring about God’s glory today.

Michelle’s one thing -   Magdelena Kyne and the Lorien art prints that she created for me

Sister Miriam’s one thing - WoodWick Candles

Heather’s one thing - Employees and volunteers at my diocese in Vancouver

Other Links mentioned in this episode: The Feminine Genius Series on the Abiding Together Podcast

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What do you think of the idea that you were born for a time such as this? What do you think God’s purpose for your life is in this particular time?
3. Where is an area the Holy Spirit is inviting you to speak or act on behalf of others? Where is he inviting you to wield your influence?
4. Can you recognize times you have listened to the enemy’s out of tune song over your life with themes like diminishing your role or over-emphasizing your sin and when you have listened to God’s song over your life speaking of the truth of who God is and who you are?

Journal Questions:

1. How does your personal Fiat affect others? How do the small and simple yeses everyday build up the kingdom of God here and now?
2. What grace do you need most - courage to speak or act, prudence to know which battles to fight, wisdom to know what to do next - to act upon God’s call on your life?
3. Where is the influence God has given you and where is he calling you to use your influence to bring about his kingdom?

Quote to Ponder:  "The feminine genius is needed wherever we make important decisions.” - Pope Francis

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Perhaps you were born for such a time as this.” - Esther 4:14

In this episode, we continue the 4 part “Herstory” mini-series focusing on women in scripture with the Easter story of Mary Magdalene. We discuss how Jesus taught Mary a new way to live and how her audacious love led her to be called the “apostle of hope”, announcing his resurrection to the apostles. We chat about the power of naming the areas of grief, shame, or sin in our lives so that we can experience the resurrection Jesus desires for us this side of heaven and in eternity. Join us next week as we dive into the last of four women in scripture: Esther. 

Heather’s one thing - No Longer Slaves - Zach Williams

Michelle’s one thing -  The Technicolor of Spring!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The lovely people at St Mary’s Parish in Mokena, IL. Esp the ladies group! 

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What would you like God to resurrect in your life this Easter season?
3. How does Jesus desire to be “Rabboni” (teacher) for you this Easter and teach you a new way to live?
4. In your life, what desires need to be named, what sin needs to be named, what sorrow needs to be named?

Journal Questions:

1. Have you allowed yourself to hear the voice of the Lord, call you by name, especially in areas where you are broken, ashamed and sinful?
2. Imagine yourself in the garden with Jesus. As He calls you by name and asks you ‘why are you crying?’, what would you like to talk to Jesus about?

Quote to Ponder: Most of all I imitate the behavior of Mary Magdalene, for her amazing – or, rather, loving – audacity which delighted the heart of Jesus, has cast its spell upon mine. – St. Therese of Lisieux

Scripture for Lectio Divina:  Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.  So she came running to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one Jesus loved, and said, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we don’t know where they have put him!” So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb.  Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first.  He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there,  as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. (They still did not understand from Scripture that Jesus had to rise from the dead.) Then the disciples went back to where they were staying. Now Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb  and saw two angels in white,seated where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?” “They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put him.” At this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, but she did not realize that it was Jesus. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking he was the gardener, she said, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have put him, and I will get him.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned toward him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!”(which means “Teacher”). Jesus said, “Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” Mary Magdalene went to the disciples with the news: “I have seen the Lord!” And she told them that he had said these things to her. - John 20:1-18

This episode is sponsored by SoulCore.

SoulCore integrates the prayers of the rosary with core strengthening, stretching and functional movements; inviting participants to nourish body & soul and encourage deeper reflection on the virtues. A sensory experience, classes incorporate scripture, sacred art, music, candlelight, and movement. Live classes are offered across the country, as well as digital offerings on DVD, download and our Online Streaming Studio. Check out SoulCore.com to learn more, sign up for our Online Streaming FREE 14-day trial or shop SoulCore. Abiding Together listeners receive a 20% discount in the SoulCore online shop through April 30, 2021 with promo code: abide20 at checkout. Visit SoulCore.com today to discover the beauty and transforming power of the rosary in body & soul!

In this episode, we conclude our six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. Claire joins us as we discuss the hidden way St. Elizabeth of the Trinity chooses us and draws us closer to God. We chat about St. Elizabeth’s delayed canonization and her prophetic messages: the call to love and be loved, the universal call to holiness, and God’s desire for deep intimacy that moves us to union and receptivity to the Holy Spirit. Thank you for joining us on the journey this Lent!

Claire’s one thing - A Personal Guide for Receiving the Father’s Love - Father Thomas Acklin and Fr. Boniface Hicks 

Heather’s one thing - Heather’s Easter Playlist: Hallelujah Is Our Song

Michelle’s one thing -  A place to belong - Letters from Catholic Women - Corynne Staresinic or buy directly from Pauline Press and receive a free tote!

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Ginger Tea: Boiled water, fresh ginger and fresh turmeric. Other add-ins: Honey, Lemon, Apple Cider Vinegar, (and black pepper too if you wish!)

Other books discussed in this episode -

Let the Fire Fall - Father Michel Scanlan 

Two Sisters in the Spirit: Therese of Lisieux and Elizabeth of the Trinity - Hans Von Balthasar 

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you experienced St. Elizabeth drawing you into a more intimate union with God this Lent? How can we continue to live our lives as a “praise of glory” as we move into the Easter season?
3. How do we become more of ourselves when we leave this life and this earth?
4. What has been the greatest fruit of allowing yourself to be loved by God?

Journal Questions:

1. How is God calling you to ‘take your seat’ at the table with the communion of Saints? What is your place at the table? What is your unique call to be a part of the Church?
2. When have you struggled with false humility? How do you understand God’s call to sanctity and greatness?
3. How is God inviting you to be a part of the spiritual renewal of the Church?

Quote to Ponder:  “Let yourself be loved” - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

Scripture for Lectio Divina:  “We who first hoped in Christ have been destined and appointed to live for the praise of his glory.” - Ephesians 1:12

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, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

This episode is sponsored by SpiritualDirection.com.

SpiritualDirection.com is the largest website dedicated to authentic Catholic spirituality in the world.  An Apostolate of the Avila Foundation, SpiritualDirection.com is a source of all things good, true and beautiful the Church today: webinars with best-selling authors, powerful reflections, teachings, videos and podcasts on scripture, the saints, spiritual warfare, and discernment of spirits, as well as news about upcoming courses in spiritual theology—including some on your favorite Carmelite saints! Right now, for a limited time, if you go to spiritualdirection.com/Elizabeth,  you can get a free download of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity’s most beautiful quotes. Print them, frame them, share them—and be reminded of God’s immense and unfailing love.

In this episode, we continue with part five of our six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We discuss the power of small acts of love that serve as the true measure of feminine strength. We expand on the ideas of humility, vulnerability and the hidden life in the inner cloister. We also chat about our call to spiritual maternity especially in the invitation to pray for priests. We hope you can join us next week for the conclusion of our series as we are joined by Claire Dwyer for our final discussion.

Heather’s one thing - Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Recipe

Michelle’s one thing -  Cooking the Catholic Relief Services Meal with her family

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Institute of Catholic Culture

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Where in your life do you feel particularly little or hidden right now? 
3. What area do you feel desperately in need of the Savior?
4. How can you and your group respond to the invitation to pray for priests?
5. How have you experienced the complementarity of the feminine and masculine genius?

Journal Questions:

1. What has been your experience of the inner cloister this Lent? 
2. What would it look like to unleash spiritual maternity within your life?
3. What have been some of the greatest sufferings of your life?Have you been able to see or experience sanctification and redemption in them? 

Quote to Ponder:  “A single action — even the least and most insignificant — done with the view of pleasing God alone, and of glorifying Him, is worth infinitely more, so to speak, than many actions in themselves of the greatest value and worth that spring from other motives.” -  Lorenzo Scupoli, Spiritual Combat

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “If a man loves me,’ says the Lord, ‘he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him” - John 14:23

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, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

In this episode, we continue with part four of our six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We discuss our experiences of peace and home felt at ‘thin places’ like monasteries and convents and how God desires for us to experience this within our souls’ inner cloister. We chat about the maturation of love over time in our relationship with God and the helpfulness of a rule of life to anchor our daily decisions in rightly ordered love. We pray that as your journey through this Lent, you may respond to God’s desire for you and experience greater union with him.

Heather’s one thing - Bees!

Michelle’s one thing - Humble Mission beads - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Bracelet 

Michelle’s other one thing - The Interior Castle: Study Edition 

Sister Miriam’s one thing - With You - Jonathan Ogden 

Other Links mentioned in the episode-

The Visitation Sisters & Monastery in Mobile, Alabama 

The Nashville Dominicans 

Father John Burns Podcast on Religious Life 

Prayer from Cardinal John Henry Newman -

O my God, let me never forget that seasons of consolation are refreshments here, and nothing more; not our abiding state. They will not remain with us, except in heaven. Here they are only intended to prepare us for doing and suffering. I pray Thee, O my God, to give them to me from time to time. Shed over me the sweetness of Thy Presence, lest I faint by the way. . . . Give me Thy Divine consolations from time to time; but let me not rest in them. Let me use them for the purpose for which Thou givest them. Let me not think it grievous, let me not be downcast, if they go. Let them carry me forward to the thought and the desire of heaven. — St. John Henry Newman, Prayers, Poems, Meditations 

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Have you ever had an experience like Heather visiting the Nashville Dominicans or Michelle at the Visitation Monastery in Mobile? How would you describe the presence of God in these ‘thin places’?
3. How have you seen love mature in relationships with your spouse, family or friends? How have you experienced love maturing in your relationship with God?
4. This Lent, what is one practice or habit God is calling you to use as an anchor to help you grow in intimacy with Him in the cloister of your soul, so love can flow from that relationship? How have you seen this at work so far this Lent?

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to imagine the ‘secret garden’, a place for God within you? What does it look like, smell like, and sound like? What flowers, trees, animals or structures fill the space? What is this place for Jesus to meet you intimately?
2. What has been your experience of intimacy with Jesus? 
3. Take a moment to pray the prayer from Cardinal Newman. What does the Lord want to say to you this?

Quote to Ponder:  “The more precious the love, the more precautions to guard it. The grating in a Carmelite monastery is not to keep the sisters in, but to keep the world out.” - Archbishop Fulton Sheen

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Jesus said to him, ‘Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.’ “- John 20:29

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, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

This episode is sponsored by Rooted for Good Skincare.

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In this episode, we dive into part three of our six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We chat about the importance of silence in a noisy, distracting world and how God is always present to us. We discuss the truth that God knows us by name, that we are always before him, and that He desires to restore what the enemy has stolen. We also talk about St. Elizabeth’s motto of ‘God in me and I in him’ and reflect on our own life mottos. We pray you may live a presence driven life this Lent and we will continue our journey with St. Elizabeth next week!

Heather’s one thing - Soaking in His Presence (Instrumental Worship) - William Augusto

Michelle’s one thing - Anna from CORDA candles

Sister Miriam’s one thing - The Way of the Cross with the Carmelite Saints - Sr. Joseph Marie, CHT on Amazon or through the Carmelite Publishing Company ICS Publications

Other links mentioned in the episode:

Institute of Carmelite Resources for books about St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

You can also find more St. Elizabeth of the Trinity resources including a Carmelite Examen and a book list on our website at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise.

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2.  What practical ways can we practice silence in a noisy world full of distractions? How can we begin to cultivate silence and recollection in our lives this Lent?
3. Looking at your life and losses, where have you seen God be a redeemer, restorer and rescuer? Thinking of the last year, what is a situation or loss that you would like to pray for God’s redemption?
4. What is the motto of your life? 

Journal Questions:

1. Take some time to think about your life motto. Sister Miriam describes this as “an expressed summary of intimacy with God or how he sees us and how we see him.” How can you remind yourself of this each day?
2. Reflect on the past year and some of the big and small losses you have experienced. Pray with Psalm 18:19 and have a conversation with God about your desires for redemption and restoration. 
3. What is one area of woundedness you would like to invite Christ to come close to and kiss? Take a moment of prayer to allow Christ to do this.

Quote to Ponder: “God in me, I in him.” - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “You have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name” - Exodus 33:17

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, additional resources and where to buy your book at www.abidingtogetherpodcast.com/this-present-paradise. 

Join us for the 2021 National Catholic Women’s Conference on March 12-14, 2021. We will have a live session with the ladies of the Abiding Together Podcast on Saturday March 13 at 6:00 pm Eastern. You can register for free online here.

In this episode, we continue our six-part Lenten series on the book “This Present Paradise” by Claire Dwyer. We discuss the complementarity of vocations to marriage and religious life and our universal vocation to love. We talk about St. Elizabeth’s relationship with the Virgin Mary and the beauty of entrusting ourselves to her in times of waiting or suffering. We also chat about sacred spaces where God makes His presence known to us sacramentally, in nature, in one another and even in the mundane of our everyday lives. We pray this Lent has been a blessing to you and we will continue our discussion next week!

Heather’s one thing - Fr. Mike Schmitz and the success of The Bible in a Year Podcast

Michelle’s one thing - This Close - Steffany Gretzinger on youtube or Spotify

Sister Miriam’s one thing - Worshipping the Lord and taking time with music - Check out Sister Miriam’s daily mix playlist

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How has God used your own vocation or others’ vocations to reveal to you the vocation to love?
3. How is God inviting you to give and receive love in your particular vocation or stage of life this Lent?
4. What are some ways God has made his presence known to you this week? How can you acknowledge God’s presence in the ordinary situations of your life?

Journal Questions:

1. How can you entrust your times of waiting and suffering to Mary? When you reflect on her life, how can she teach you about this?
2. In this time that many of us have been away from the Eucharist due to restrictions, how has your Eucharistic love grown or changed? How has God revealed himself to you in nature, beauty, or otherwise come to you where you are?
3. Take some time to reflect on what a Sacred space could look like  in your home or room. What are some visual reminders that could draw your attention to God’s presence with you throughout your day? Is this something you can create?

Quote to Ponder:  “The Word of God is the one who gives this command, who expresses this will. Abide in me, not for a few moments, a few hours that pass by, but abide in me in a permanent and habitual way. Abide in me: pray in me, adore in me, love in me, suffer in me, work and act in me. Abide in me in your dealings with anyone and anything, always entering ever more deeply in me.”  - St. Elizabeth of the Trinity

Scripture for Lectio Divina: “Abide in me” - John 15:4

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you been challenged to develop a disposition of hope in the midst of loss or suffering?
3. What part of your personality, gifts, or interests do you still need to surrender to God, so that He may refine it to be used for His glory?
4. In this time in history, how can you be present to the Trinity in your everyday moments, your everyday actions, and your everyday interactions with others?

Journal Questions:

1. Identify a trait or area in your life where your gift and your wound, or your glory and your weakness, lie side by side. How is the Lord asking you to practice surrender in this area?
2. Reflect on a time that God has asked you to set aside a gift or interest for a season. What was the fruit of this surrender? 
3. What is the little way that God is inviting you to be present to him this Lent?

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What, if anything, has kept you from the sacrament of confession? 
3. Take some time to reflect and share about what precedes your temptations to sin. What can you do as a group to encourage one another to come back into the gaze of the Father in moments of temptation? 
4. What are your plans for fasting, almsgiving, and prayer during Lent? 

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect on your own patterns of sin. Are there any particular situations, emotions, or interactions that often precede the sin in your life? 
2. What is the deeper longing you are looking to fulfill when you sin?
3. Take some time to present this unmet desire, unhealed wound, or unconfessed sin to the Lord and allow him to speak truth into this place. 

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Share your experience with the sacrament of reconciliation. Are there any experiences of healing and restoration you would like to share with your small group?
3. Where have you felt you needed to cover or hide yourself when coming before the Lord? How does the word ‘uncovered’ shed a new light on confession as opposed to ‘exposed’?
4. What can you do as a group to encourage one another to respond to the invitation to God’s mercy this Lent?                                                                               

Journal Questions:

1. What shame, fears, or lies about yourself or God keep you from experiencing God’s mercy through the sacrament of reconciliation? 
2. What is God inviting you to let go of in order to receive mercy? 
3. Take some time to pray through John 21:1-19 and imagine yourself in the place of Peter. What words can you imagine Jesus speaking to you after confession and repentance for your sins?

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How can we model St. Joseph’s love for the people dearest to us in our life - not as our possessions, but as gifts entrusted to us. Are you able to receive them with open hands and give them back to the Lord?
3. Where is God inviting you to practice obedience, acceptance, and surrender like St. Joseph?
4. How do you need to receive a redeemed experience of fatherhood through St. Joseph this year?

Journal Questions:

1. Joseph practiced obedience and surrender in the face of disappointment. What areas of your life is God asking you to surrender in the midst of disappointment?
2. How is God revealing a redeemed masculinity to you through St. Joseph? Take some time to invite him into any areas of woundedness around masculinity or ways men have wounded you. 
3. What does God want to reveal to you about His character through St. Joseph this year?

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:

• Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father Paperback – Fr Donald Calloway 
• Consecration to Jesus through St. Joseph: An Integrated Look At the Holy Family Paperback – Dr. Gregory Bottaro
• The Seven Sorrows and Joys of St. Joseph
• Patris Corde - With a Father’s Heart - Pope Francis
• Redemptoris Custos - Saint Pope John Paul II

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!

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How does God want to use us to be a voice to call others into their fullness, into their becoming, and to the glory God intends for each of us? 
3. What do you need to repent of in order to bring God’s kingdom here and now? Who is God inviting you to link arms with, in peace, to help bring about His Kingdom here and now? 
4. What would it mean in your life for you to arise? Where specifically is God calling you to arise in your own motherhood to mother yourself and other people after that? 

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to reflect on the ways you have seen God move in your life, bring about breakthroughs, heal, restore, or make a way where there was no way. 
2. Read Judges 5 as an inspiration then write down a personal Magnificat: a song or poem of praise to God for what He has done in your life.
3. What are the places in your life where you seek out your own glory instead of God's glory? In these moments, who are your most honest relationships with that remind you this is not the glory that you were made for?
4. What are your idols that God is asking you to leave, repent, and turn back to him? What is the captivity that your idols keep you trapped in? 

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 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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. When have you experienced the Lord allowing you to journey through a season of physical, spiritual or emotional barrenness?
3. Where have you allowed yourself to focus on other people’s fruitfulness and allowed yourself to believe that God has forgotten about you?
4. Desperation and surrender can draw us closer to God that we may bear fruit. How have you experienced this in your life?
5. Do you trust God to write a good story in your life even when things are not how you expected? Are there areas where you still need to surrender control?

Journal Questions:

1. Where have you felt that God has not answered, fulfilled, listened to or given you a desire that you longed for? What has your reaction been in these situations? What lies are you believing because of this? 
2. What are the areas of barrenness in your life? How is the Holy Spirit asking you to acknowledge your longing and bring it to him?  
3. What is the posture of prayer you want to place yourself in before the Lord through this season?

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. 

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What distracts or prevents you from reading Scripture each day?
3. Discuss the difference between the lens you look at the world through when you listen to social media/news and the lens you look at the world through when you listen to the truth and beauty in Scripture?
4. In this new year, how is God inviting you to experience His character more deeply through scripture? Are there any daily, weekly or monthly commitments you would like to make as a group to reading or listening to scripture?

Journal Questions:

1. Take a moment to reflect on some important scriptures that God has used in your life
2. Take some time to reflect on how you can make space for God’s word in scripture to speak to you this year. Is there a particular verse, chapter or book that God wants you to focus on?
3. What needs to change in your life for Scripture to really become daily bread and nourishment for you?

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!

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What is your word for the year? How do you want this word to allow God’s grace to take root in you this year? How do you want this word to allow God’s grace to bear fruit in you this year? 
3. What do you need to say no to or release - old mindsets, agreements or beliefs about yourself or God - so you can fully receive what God has for you in this new word?
4. Discuss how your group can share your words and keep interceding for one another throughout this year.

Journal Questions:

1. In the midst of the difficult things that happened in 2020, take some time to reflect on how God worked in your life in the past year. Identify a couple of key moments in your spiritual journey and write down your hopes for the new year.
2. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal a new word for you in this new year. Are there any specific themes, images, songs, or scriptures that have been standing out to you recently? Once you hear a word, remember that it’s okay to wait with an open heart for God to confirm this new word for you.
3. Look at your word of the year - does this word help create conditions conducive for the spiritual growth God desires for you? Is there anything that you may need to pause or say no to, so you can say yes to God fully in this season? 

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.

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

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How have you received God’s grace to bring new life this advent? 
3. How can you invite trustworthy “spiritual midwives” to be with you and help you to birth new things in your life?
4. When Mary’s heart was pierced, she kept her heart open instead of choosing bitterness. Where are areas that God is inviting you to keep your heart open in the midst of suffering?

Journal Questions:

1. How is Jesus inviting you to receive the gift of his Mother this advent? 
2. What is a situation where you have a choice to allow something beautiful to birth or not? Take a moment to pray for the grace to say yes to Christ this Christmas season.
3. Where have you taken arrows in relationships for the benefit of someone else. Take some time to reflect on these situations and how Mary was with you in them. 

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How can we invite Mary into our lives as a real person, more than just a statue in our church or a figure of piety in the Bible?
3. What does it look like for women to wield their swords? What does it look like for women to fight for those that they love using the feminine genius and avoiding bitterness and manipulation? 
4. Where has the enemy distracted you with a small battle that has pulled your attention and intention away from what the Lord has for you?

Journal Questions:

1. How do you need Mary to fight for you? What attack from the serpent do you want her to crush? What snare do you want her to free you from? What knot do you want her to untie? 
2. What struggle in your life have you resigned to just “tough it out” instead of opening to restoration? How is God inviting you to grow in surrender, vulnerability and strength through laying down resignation, grasping, and control? 
3. Take some time in prayer to invite Mary’s protection and defense from the enemy.  

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. 

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Where are the areas that you want to or need to be nurtured and mothered by Mary?
3. Mary experienced Jesus in everyday, regular life. What is God trying to grow in what may seem ordinary in your life? How is He inviting you into gratitude, wonder, and the childlike joy of the ordinary?
4. In the midst of our brokenness, God has created a way for us to receive His body into ours through the Eucharist. How do we receive Jesus at Mass as Mary received Jesus in her womb?

Journal Questions:

1. What is God preparing to birth or make new in you this Advent?
2. Use your imagination to place yourself in the womb of Mary or the home at Nazareth. Imagine Mary and Joseph awaiting your arrival with joy and love. Imagine receiving everything you need from the generosity of others, being entirely protected and entirely loved. What does this experience of prayer stir up in you?
3. Mary lived a human life fully alive. Ask the Holy Spirit what your life would look like living fully alive and ask Mary to journey with you towards a fully alive life.

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What are some areas in your life that you grasp for control where God is inviting you to surrender in trust?
3. Even if you have accepted Jesus into your life, where are there still blocks to your openness and receptivity to Him? What are the situations or wounds in your life where you have not allowed Jesus to love you fully?
4. Where is Mary inviting you to seek healing in or from distorted motherhood? Where is Jesus inviting you to seek healing from distorted masculinity?

Journal Questions:

1. What aspect of God’s character are you being invited to encounter this Advent, so that you can begin to trust like Mary?
2. What decisions in life do you think your ‘yes’ or ‘no’ is motivated primarily by fear, trying to avoid suffering, avoiding intimacy, or avoiding abandonment and disappointment? How can Mary mother you there and bring you to Jesus for healing? What decisions in life is your ‘yes’ or ‘no  motivated primarily by love, self gift and truth?
3. What does true life-giving motherhood look like in your life?
4. How did Sister Miriam’s prayer during this week's episode impact you? Is there anything you need to bring to Jesus from this time of prayer?

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. 

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Jackie mentioned the first step in living an integrated health is awareness. Of the nine pillars - faith, nutrition, sleep, stress management, community, personal growth, movement and play - what is one area you recognize you are living a healthy life and one area you acknowledge you need healing and wellness? 
3. What keeps you from living a healthy, integrated life? - fear of failure, fear of exposure, fear of change, busyness/distraction?  
4. Where have you seen Jesus bring “holes” into wholeness in your life and the lives of people you care about? 

Journal Questions:

1. The first step to integrated living is making space for the Lord and being Christ centered. What is one way you can make space for the Lord this week? What else might be in the center of your life instead of Jesus?
2. Just like you would to prepare for confession, take a moment to make an examination. What's the state of your body? What's the state of your soul? Where the areas are in your health that you haven't invited the Lord into? Where do you lack discipline?
3. Invite the Lord to reveal to you the area of your wellbeing where you are in need of focus and the presence of Jesus. Pray “Jesus re-form me.”

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

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. How have the themes of trust and dependence in this season of life prepared you to receive Jesus, the Way, the Truth, and the Life?
3. What has been your personal experience of Jesus creating a way where you felt like there was no way? Is there a place that you need Him to make a way right now?
4. Jesus is not playing hide and seek with us, he desires us to know the way. How is Jesus inviting you to stay close to him in order to experience Him as the way, truth and life for you personally?

Journal Questions:

1. What is a situation in your life where you feel like there is no way forward? Take a moment to pray the words “Jesus you are the way.”
2. The way Jesus shows us in scripture is the Paschal Mystery - the cycle of suffering, dying and rising again. How is Jesus inviting you further up and further in to living the Paschal Mystery in this season of your life? 
3. Is the life you are living, the life that longs to be lived in you? 
4. How have you made agreements with lies or false beliefs about who you are? Take a moment and invite Jesus the Truth into those areas and ask him to speak truth. 

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 - 

• Isaiah 30:21
• John 8:31-32
• Isaiah 43:16
• Exodus 15:1-22

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Read John 15 together. What word or phrase speaks to you on how God desires for you to abide in and be dependent on him
3. Heather shared about times that she felt like she had to be the vine- the life source, the provider, and security, for her branches- her people, family, and community. Have you ever felt like you had to be the vine? How have you experienced the freedom of dependence by surrendering these people and circumstances back to the Lord?
4. Michelle reminded us ‘new wine isn’t quick.’ What is one fruit in your life that has required time and patience to fully mature? What is one area that you are still waiting for maturation?

Journal Questions:

1. What is an area you may be resisting the crushing or where you are settling for ‘old stale grape juice’ when God is  wanting to create new wine out of you?
2. Reflect on how you have seen fruitfulness when allowing God to crush you and create something good and sweet.
3. Take some time to reflect on the questions posed by Michelle and Heather: Is my heart growing colder or warmer towards others? Am I moody or constantly in a bad mood? Do I get fixated on offenses or I'm willing to overlook most? Are the fruits of the Holy Spirit active and visible in my life?
4. We never know when change is around the corner, when breakthrough is about to happen, when the promise is about to come to fruition. Where is God inviting you to lean into the vine and trust in his promise?

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 - 

• Galatians 4:4
• Galatians 5:22 
• John 15: 1-17

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Read Psalm 23 together. What word or phrase speaks to you on how God has been a shepherd to you in this season? 
3. The catechism reminds us that it is Christ alone who unfailingly nourishes and leads us. Where have you looked to man-made ways and earthly leaders to shepherd you instead of Jesus, the Good Shepherd? 
4. The rod and and staff are used to protect the flock and snatch back the sheep who are prone to wander. How have you seen God’s rod and staff at work in your life? Where do you need God to shepherd you by wielding his rod and staff?

Journal Questions:

1. What does it mean, for you personally, that Jesus is the Good Shepherd? Reflect on a time that God has shown his providence, protection and leadership in your life.
2. Who are the shepherds - priests, pastors and leaders - who have imaged for you the face of Christ as the Good Shepherd? Take a moment to express gratitude for the gift of their lives and vocations.
3. Who are the shepherds - priests, pastors and leaders -  who have disfigured the face of Christ as the Good Shepherd due to their failures and sins. Take a moment to invite God into your hurt and ask that He would restore those places. 
4. Spend some time reading and praying through the shepherd imagery in John 10, Psalm 23, or Luke 15:3-6. Allow the Holy Spirit to reveal who Jesus says He is. 

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 - 

• Isaiah 40:11
• Isaiah 53:6
• Ezekiel 34:11-16
• Luke 15: 3-7
• John 10: 1-42

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.

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:

1. Mystery of the Kingdom - Dr. Edward Sri
2. God with us - Dr. Edward Sri
3. A Father Who Keeps His Promises - Scott Hahn

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What has been your experience with the Holy Scriptures? Did you grow up reading the Bible often, have you just recently discovered the living Word of God or are you still not sure where to begin?
3. Dr. Swafford mentioned the threat of Catholic Deism - where faith becomes about an idea and not about a person. How have the scriptures fostered your relationship with the person of Jesus?
4. Dr. Swafford said “theology is really about intellectual discipleship.” How do/can your bible studies, discussion groups and personal study create disciples around you? 

Journal Questions:

1. Dr. Swafford’s journey began with an intentional mentorship from Dr. Sri. Pray about who God is inviting you to intentionally disciple and what would that look like.
2. Dr. Swafford encouraged us to start small. What’s one small daily scripture exercise you can commit to this week?
3. Take some time to reflect on your favorite scripture verse or one that has impacted your life. Ask the Holy Spirit how God wants to speak this word over your life in a new way. 

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.” 

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What are some fears or hesitancies that have kept you from encountering Jesus in the poor?
3. In Matthew 25, Jesus invites us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and welcome the stranger. Where do the opportunities to respond to this call already exist in your everyday life? How did this episode change the way you look at your response to Mathew 25?
4. Jesus asked St. Francis to rebuild his church and Fr. Mark Mary invited us to rebuild the church through prayer. How can we continue becoming a people of prayer who allow the Holy Spirit to operate in and through us?

Journal Questions:

1. In Matthew 26, Jesus said, “the poor you will always have with you.” Who are the poor among you? If no one comes to mind initially, pray for the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to see those who are in material need and those are unloved, unwanted or unnoticed. 
2. Fr. Benedict often said the poor are the eighth sacrament - reflect on how you have received the grace of God in seeing, knowing and serving the materially and spiritually poor among you.
3. What is the grace you need most to respond to Jesus’s invitation and live out the corporal works of mercy in your everyday life?

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.’”

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. What is one specific moment in your life that you have experienced God’s providence by being open to receive?
3. Where is God inviting you to make space in your life in order to make room for Him to Father you and show His providence?
4. Share a time when you have been loved in your weakness? How did that impact you?

Journal Questions:

1. How have you made your poverty about you, rather than about God’s providence?
2. How is God inviting you to accept spiritual poverty and seek material simplicity? How would you be more free if you said this yes?

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.”

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. After reading the basic definitions, which temperament resonates most with you? How can you see your own temperament as a gift and a blessing? 
3. In the podcast we talked about how we can’t use our temperament/personality as an excuse for poor behavior. What is one way that you need the grace of God to overcome a negative tendency you have?
4. After reading the basic definitions, which temperament would describe your spouse, roommate or child? How can you see their temperament as a gift and a blessing? 
5. How can we better honor those who are different than us? 

Journal Questions:

1. What would you like to thank God for when it comes to how he made you and your temperament? 
2. Who has God given you that is different and complementary to you? Think of the blessing of your children, coworkers, roommates, and friends. How can you honor the differences these individuals bring to your life? 
3. Are there any patterns of behavior or thought in your life that you have been told are part of your temperament, but may be a result of woundedness? Ask the Lord to help reveal these places and then surrender them to Jesus. 

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from this week’s episode?
2. Holiness is more about being than doing. Who is someone you would describe as “holy” and why?
3. Michelle spoke about our attachment to our phones, especially at the start and end of the day. How does this affect you and what is a practical change you can make to give your “first fruits” to the Lord? 
4. After listening to this week’s episode, how have you been challenged to pursue holiness by pursuing union and intimacy with God? 

Journal Questions:

1. Sr Miriam described holiness as the fullness of Christ being made present through us. What is one specific thing that is blocking Jesus from being present in and through you?
2. Heather shared about the importance of fasting and strengthening the “will muscle.” What is one tangible way you could do to choose something difficult to strengthen your will?
3. What is the Lord inviting you to root out of your life - gossip, resentment, bitterness, grudges, judgment, self-righteousness, self-pity, selfishness - in order to cultivate the fruits of the Holy Spirit and grow in holiness?
4. Spend some time in prayer today to recommit to pursuing holiness and union with Jesus.

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. 

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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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are you lamenting right now? And if you're not lamenting, is it something you feel free to do? Why or why not?
3. We are the church. What do you wish you saw or experienced in the Church right now and how can you be, do, and make real those attributes?
4. Pope Benedict says “the one who hopes, lives differently.” How do our lives look different because of  our knowing hope? 

Journal Questions:

1. Where have you placed your hope in something other than Jesus? 
2. Heather spoke of those watching you and modeling their responses after you - how would you allow a loved one to lament hard things and can you allow yourself the same grace to lament?
3. What is bringing you the greatest hope in this season?

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.”

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does it mean to “fix your eyes on God” every day? What areas have you done this in the last three months and what are areas you have found yourself searching for peace elsewhere?
3. Sr. Miriam described our spiritual poverty as the places where we are vulnerable and dependent on the Lord. Where have you experienced this kind of poverty in the last three months?

Journal Questions:

1. What has been your prayer to the Lord the last three months? What has been the Lord’s message to you in the last three months? 
2. What areas is the Lord inviting you to pray “Lord, do for me what I can’t do for myself.” ? Make a small act of surrender. Pray “Jesus, I surrender … please do for me what I cannot do for myself.”

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.”

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What is one area in your life that you need to work on so that you can be a person of unity and peace?
3. How are you doing with your word of the year?
4. What will you do this summer to continue on the journey and stay close to Christ?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 5:9. What does it speak to you personally?
2. What theme from this season is the Lord inviting you to dive deeper into?
3. In what way might the Holy Spirit be nudging you to invite him into you, not just a situation?
4. Where are you sowing seeds of peace and where are you sowing seeds of discord?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 5:9 - “Blessed are the peacemakers"

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does the word “Father” mean to you?
3. Who are some of the faces in the mosaic of fatherhood in your life?
4. Share a time that your dad, a priest, or another figure in your life fathered you well!

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Galatians 4:6-7. What does it speak to you personally?
2. How has the face of God been disfigured for you by earthly fathers? How is the Lord trying to restore your image of him?
3. How comfortable are you with opening up to the Fatherhood of God?
4. How can you grow in becoming a son or daughter of the Father?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Galatians 4:6-7 And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So through God you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then an heir.”

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.
Enlighten me, guide me,
strengthen and comfort me.
Tell me what I ought to do
and order me to do it.
I promise to submit
to anything you requirest of me,
and to accept everything
that Thou allowest to happen to me.
Just show me what Thy will is.

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are the telltale signs in your own life that the voice you’re listening to is the Lord?
3. What is one time that you’ve followed the inspirations of the Holy Spirit, and you’re glad you did?
4. Where are you struggling to discern the voice of the Lord? How can you put into practice Fr. Jacques’ advice for greater discernment?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 10:4-5. What does it speak to you personally?
2. Do you feel that God is elusive or “never speaks to me”? How do you feel about what Heather said about how God is in fact trying to speak to you?
3. How can you equip yourself better with “the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God”? (Ephesians 6:17)
4. Where are you feeling a sense of haste? Do you need to take a “holy pause” and discern what God is saying to you?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 10:4-5 - When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.

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!

Book Study

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:
June 1st - Introduction & Chapter One
June 8th - Chapter Two
June 15th - Chapter Three, Conclusion, and Appendices

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Sr. Miriam used the analogy of cultivating the right environment for a garden to grow and that the principles are the same in the spiritual life. What does this mean to you?
3. How do you usually hear the Lord speak to you?
4. Which one of Fr. Jacques’ suggestions stuck out to you? Which one will you choose to dive into this week?
5. What comes to mind when you honestly ask yourself the question “Is God enough for me?” Where do you doubt that He will satisfy you?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Romans 15:13. What does it speak to you personally?
2. What is the narrative you’re believing about your life right now? Is that the voice of the Lord?
3. Where are you struggling to trust God’s goodness? 
4. Take a few moments to place everything in your heart before God, the good and bad. Invite God to speak and bring His fire to purify your desires.

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Romans 15:13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

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:

• Lift Up Your Heart: A 10-Day Personal Retreat with St. Francis de Sales by Father John Burns 
• Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father (paperback) by Fr Donald Calloway
• The Word on Fire Bible (releases June 15) - Click here for more information

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:
June 1st - Introduction & Chapter One
June 8th - Chapter Two
June 15th - Chapter Three, Conclusion, and Appendices

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What excites you about learning to live in the School of the Holy Spirit?
3. How have you approached holiness? Have you seen it as something to be achieved or received as a gift?
4. Where do you feel the tension between Kingdom living and the messages of the world?
5. Who has been an example to you of what it looks like to live in the school of the Holy Spirit?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 6:38. What does it speak to you personally?
2. Where do you feel you are in your desire for the Holy Spirit: do you “want it”, or do you “want to want it”?
3. Spend some time asking the Lord how you can love Him more purely and to hear what he says to you.
4. Where can you take the next step toward openness and surrender to the Holy Spirit?

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 
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”

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:
Michelle’s booklist on racial reconciliation

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:
June 1st - Introduction & Chapter One
June 8th - Chapter Two
June 15th - Chapter Three, Conclusion, and Appendices

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. How would you describe your relationship with Holy Spirit?
3. Where have you felt yourself be “reawakened” lately? Where do you desire an awakening?
4. Where have you seen God bring light out of darkness?
5. What makes it harder or easier to hear the whisper of the Holy Spirit?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Galatians 5:22-23. What does it speak to you personally?
2. Where do you need to invite the Holy Spirit into a specific situation in your life??
3. Consider the Refiner’s Fire. Where is the Holy Spirit trying to burn away what is not holy in your life? How are you responding?
4. What kind of fruits are you growing?

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

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.

Additional Resources:
Michelle also mentions the book retreat Under the Gaze of the Father by Archbishop Luis Martinez (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK)

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What blessings and displays of God’s glory have you seen?
3. What is a moment you’ve had of awareness of God’s presence?
4. Do you experience a sense of entitlement when it comes to faith?
5. How can you pray and work in your own life to build unity?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 17: 20-24. What does it speak to you personally?
2. What is your reaction to this call for Christian unity?
3. Are there relationships in your life that require reconciliation? How can you contribute to unity?
4. Are you playing a role in Christ reconciling the Church, or how are you playing a role in the Church being more divided?

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.”

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
1 salmon fillet no skin, bones removed (I get mine from Costco)
salt & pepper to taste
Fresh lemon juice
Optional fresh dill
1 egg, beaten

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. 

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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.

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Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What have you learned from your mother that you are grateful for?
3. How has your mother taught you to suffer or handle sorrowful things?
4. What has your mother revealed to you about the face of God?
5. Who are other people in your life who have shown you Motherhood?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Proverbs 31:30-31 What does it speak to you personally?
2. How well do you honor your mother? 
3. In the places where your mother has not revealed the face of God to you, what is the truth of who God is?
4. Are there places in your relationship with your mother that need to be restored?

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;
but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
Honor her for all that her hands have done,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

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)

Michelle’s one thing - St. Catherine of Siena: The Mystic by Fr. Paul Murray (Amazon US, Amazon Canada, Amazon UK), and the NFL draft. One of my favorite players went #7 in the draft - Derrick Brown, Auburn 

Heather’s one thing - My dear parents and having them move in next door.

Bishop Barron’s one thing - The ESPN documentary on the Chicago Bulls: The Last Dance

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What is your first memory of encountering beauty?
3. Share some experiences of beauty you’ve encountered in the culture!
4. What secular movie scene made you think about the Christian life or God?
5. What are you most passionate about right now?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:11 “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” What does it speak to you personally?
2. How can you make time each day to pause and look for beauty?
3. What are some things you find beautiful? What do they teach you about Who God is?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Ecclesiastes 3:11 “He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.”

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
2 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Baking Powder
1/2 tsp Baking Soda
1/2 cup Sugar
2 Eggs
1 cup Milk
1/4 cup Vegetable Oil
1/2 cup Butter (soft)
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
1 pkg (8g) Active Dry Yeast
2 tbsp Water
2 tbsp Sugar
A greased 9x13 glass baking dish

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
1 cup Brown Sugar
1/4 cup Butter
1/4 cup Maple Syrup
Salt to taste

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
(I added a bunch of chopped pecans after pouring in the caramel - yum!)

Sticky Bun Filling (goes on top of the dough before you roll it)

1/3 cup Butter (melted and cooled slightly)
1/2 cup Sugar
3/4 cup Brown Sugar
Cinnamon to taste

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does friendship with God look like for you? How can you grow in friendship with Him? 
3. What do you focus on more often, what you’ve been deprived of or what you have? 
4. How can you practice remembering what God has done, in your life and in the world?
5. Where is the Fiat God is inviting you to make  today?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: 1 Cor 15:55-57. What does it speak to you personally?
2. How can you spend time to deepen your friendship with Jesus?
3. Take a moment to answer God’s question: Where are you? Are you with me?
4. Where can you take authority in your life to claim the victory?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. - 1 Cor 15:55-57

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

Resources:

The text of Pope Francis’ Easter Vigil Homily

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What was a little hidden “Easter egg” that you found this year?
3. In this cloistered time, how will you take silence to hear God speak to you, so you can emerge a resurrected person?
4. What are small gestures of care, affection, and prayer that you can make this week?
5. What are the stones you place in front of hope?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 28:1-7. What does it speak to you personally?
2. Put yourselves in the position of one of the women throughout the Passion narrative. How do you react?
3. What is the mountain that overwhelms you? How can you focus on the next right step?
4. What are the places that you self protect and possibly miss out on a gift that God wants to give you?

Quote to Ponder - “Jesus’ hope is different. He plants in our hearts the conviction that God is able to make everything work unto good, because even from the grave he brings life.” - Pope Francis

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Matthew 28:1-7

When the sabbath was over,
Mary Magdalene, Mary, the mother of James, and Salome
bought spices so that they might go and anoint him.
Very early when the sun had risen,
on the first day of the week, they came to the tomb.
They were saying to one another,
"Who will roll back the stone for us
from the entrance to the tomb?"
When they looked up,
they saw that the stone had been rolled back;
it was very large.
On entering the tomb they saw a young man
sitting on the right side, clothed in a white robe,
and they were utterly amazed.
He said to them, "Do not be amazed!
You seek Jesus of Nazareth, the crucified.
He has been raised; he is not here.
Behold the place where they laid him.
But go and tell his disciples and Peter,
'He is going before you to Galilee;
there you will see him, as he told you.'”

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does a lack of trust look like for you?
3. Do you trust the Lord with yourself? Do you trust him with the people you love?
4. Where do you feel difficulty depending or relying on others?
5. How trustworthy are you? How can you grow in being trustworthy?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Jeremiah 17:7-8. What does it speak to you personally?
2. Inviting the Lord to come with you, look at the places where you find it difficult to trust? What lies did you believe that made trust difficult for you?
3. What new way is Jesus trying to show you? How can you cooperate with him?
4. What does it mean to say, “Jesus, I trust in You”? Where do you say “Jesus, I trust in You, except…”

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - "But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. They will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit." - Jeremiah 17:7-8

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

Chaplet of Divine Mercy

The Divine Mercy Novena

Discussion questions:    

1. What part of the Stations of the Cross spoke to you?
2. How can you enter into Holy Week in a new way this year?
3. What does it mean to you, that Jesus suffered and died for you, so that you could be with Him in heaven forever?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and pray on Mt 26:40 “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?” 
2. How can you keep watch with Jesus during Holy Week?

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

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

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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.
- Experience a greater sense of peace and purpose in your daily life.
- Gain personal insight and clarity, all while achieving your goals.
- Find and achieve your higher purpose.

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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.

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. 

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What places do you feel uncertain and need the reassurance of God the Father?
3. Can you relate to the experience of having parts of you that you don’t “welcome home”? How can you begin to care for those parts of you?
4. What is a “sophisticated defense” you may need to leave behind?
5. What titles are you called to live further into (sister, mother, wife, daughter etc)? What does growth in those areas look like?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this last time?
2. How vulnerable are you allowing yourself to be in relationships? Are you opening up to the point that the ugliness can come out, and you can begin to receive healing within the safety of a community?
3. Where are you unwelcoming to yourself? Ask Christ to reveal to you how He sees you. What does he say?
4. What younger part of yourself is lost and needs to be welcomed home?
   
   

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

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. 

This is the Be Not Afraid Conference! Sister Miriam, Heather, and Michelle are three of the amazing speakers who will be giving talks and reflections, starting March 20th, 2020. Sign up now!

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are the masks that I have put on God the Father?
3. What is paralyzing you from coming close to the Father, or letting him come close to you?
4. What does it look like when you yourself live out the qualities of “the Father”?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? 
2. What do the eyes of the Father look like when He looks at you?
3. What is it that you need to grieve?

Quote to Ponder - "Be compassionate as your Father is compassionate." - Henri Nouwen

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. How can you create space to hear the Father speak blessing to you?
3. What are the words of blessing God wants you to hear in this moment?
4. In light of all the abuses in the Church, how can you yourself “lean in in love” rather than letting discouragement drive you away from God?
5. How does God need to restore your understanding of Him as a loving, faithful Father? 

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? 
2. What are areas of your life where you believe the lie thatGod must be irritated with you?
3. Do you imagine God as speaking blessing or condemnation toward you?
4. When your models of fatherhood have failed you, how has that affected your sense of God as Father? What is God trying to tell you about himself as Father?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Which son do you identify with more?
3. What are the signs in your own life that show that you’re living fully alive in the Lord? What about when you’re not?
4. What practical things help you grow in the discipline of gratitude and trust?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? 
2. Do you feel God is holding out on you in some area? How can you trustingly surrender that to him?
3. What are the bitter places you hear in your speech? What deeper issue are they pointing to?

Quote to Ponder - “Joy and resentment cannot coexist.” - Henri Nouwen

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are the ways you experience longing for Heaven?
3. Where have you gone looking for “distant countries”?
4. What are the voices you listen to that call you from home?
5. What are the vulnerable places, where your faith in being Beloved is fragile?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally this time? 
2. What do you think about the idea that Heaven is your home?
3. Where, right now, do you need God to speak into? Where are you still striving or self-protecting?
4. Recall the confidence and security of Henri Nouwen’s “litany” of what it means to be the Beloved. Create your own Litany of the Beloved! “As the Beloved, _____”
   
   

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does the idea of “home” mean to you?
3. Have you ever had an experience where beauty led you to the divine? Share about it!
4. How are you taking steps on the journey toward the embrace of the Father?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Luke 15:11-32. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Does the thought of vulnerability and the embrace of God make you feel at peace or uneasy? 
3. Do you find yourself to be an observer in your own story? Where and how can you “dare to step into the center, kneel down, and let [yourself] be held by a forgiving God?”

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 

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Luke 15:11-32 - The Parable of the Prodigal Son

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.

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Do you make adoration a regular practice? Why or why not?
3. What has been your experience of adoration?
4. What are some ways you’ve learned to avoid distraction in adoration?
5. What are some ways you like to pray in adoration?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Jeremiah 19:12-14. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Take some time in adoration this week: What do you hear the Lord saying to you while you spend time with Him?
3. What’s holding you back from spending time in adoration? How do you think the Lord wants to respond to that?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - Jeremiah 19:12-14: "Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord.

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.
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.

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are your hesitations in extending invitations or offering hospitality to others?
3. What are the questions you need people to ask you about your journey?
4. How can you be more intentional in creating space for the people in your life?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Hebrew 10:24-25. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Who have you been neglecting in your life, or what friendship can you invest in more fully?
3. How well do you listen to the people around you? How attentive are you? How can you grow in that?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Hebrew 10:24-25 - and let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

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!
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.)

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Do you have trustworthy friends who you can be authentic with? Are you that friend for others?
3. What would it look like for you to live an unmasked life?
4. Where do you feel Satan has tried to steal your voice?
5. Where are you feeling lost or afraid, and how can you “put yourself in a position to be found” by God?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture. Jeremiah 1: 4-9 - What does it speak to you personally? 
2. What false layers do you need to take off? 
3. Where are you wrestling with something that’s too big for you (but not for God)?
4. Where is the Lord asking you to be brave this year?

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,
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you,
before you were born I set you apart;
I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
“Alas, Sovereign Lord,” I said, “I do not know how to speak; I am too young.”
But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you,” declares the Lord.
Then the Lord reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, “I have put my words in your mouth. See, today I appoint you over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and to plant.”

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 
Endow - Edith Stein (St. Teresa of Benedicta): Seeker of Truth Book Study 

Heather’s one thing - You Make Me Brave (Acoustic Version) by Josie Buchanan
Nothing Else by Cody Carnes

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What parallels do you see between the natural seasons and the seasons of the spiritual life?
3. How do you take a “holy pause”?
4. What are the places you’re afraid are too barren for God to make fruitful?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Proverbs 31:25. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Has there been a time when you tried to cling to something that had run its course?
3. What are the barren places in your life that you can pour out before the Lord like Hannah?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Proverbs 31:25 - She is not afraid of the snow for her household, For all her household are clothed with scarlet.

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!

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What is the terrain of your heart? What does the soil in your life look like right now?
3. Where do you need to dig in the dirt and let God bring in His light and cultivate the soil?
4. What do I need to steward well in my life and what do I need to prune back?
5. What are the weeds that need to be pulled out in my heart?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 13. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. What are the thorns that choke the good seed in your life? Where do you need to seek the true face of Jesus?
3. What is the fruit being born in your life? What do you think God is trying to show you about your soil?

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.”

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: 
Shepherd by Bethel
Undivided by Stu Garrard (feat. Amanda Cook)
Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What do the terms abiding and striving mean to you?
3. What seed do you hear God calling you to cultivate slowly right now?
4. What motivates you to strive and grasp instead of abiding and trusting in God?
5. What is one thing you can do this week to abide more deeply in God?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 15:4-5. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Where are you striving and where are you abiding?
3. Where do you struggle with self-reliance?

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.

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

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Did you have a Word of the Year this past year? How did it shape you and your relationship with God?
3. What is your Word of the Year for the upcoming year? If you don’t have one yet, how can you make time to talk to God about it this week?
4. How do you ask God to reveal your Word of the Year to you?
5. Which saints are choosing you this year?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Isaiah 43:19. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. What “new thing” do you hear God calling you into this year?
3. What spiritual journey has been the Lord been taking you on through your past Words of the Year?

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.

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
The Shadow Can’t Have Me by Arthur Alligood

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What are some of the stumbling blocks that you experience in sharing what God has done in your life?
3. Are there areas of your life where you’re afraid to share yourself authentically?
4. What is one way you can bring good news to the lost?
5. Where can you set aside time this week to pray for the grace to love with the Father’s heart?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture:  Isaiah 61:1. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. We can’t selectively numb the bad without numbing the good. Where are you numbing your life and not living fully awake?
3. Where do I need to say “Yes” to the Lord, so he can bring restoration and good news?

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,
    because the Lord has anointed me
    to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
    to proclaim freedom for the captives
    and release from darkness for the prisoners.”

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. 
The Simplicity of Christmas

Heather’s one thing - The song Shepherd by Bethel.
Our dear friends Mary and Simon Kyne

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What was a time when you felt a verse from Scripture was given to you for that particular moment in your life? What was the Scripture?
3. How do you stay hopeful in moments of your life when you’ve been waiting for the Savior to arrive?
4. What’s one way you can practice reminding yourself who God is - “preach to yourself”?
5. Who are the patron saints - the “cloud of witnesses” - you turn to for intercession? Why?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Psalm 27:14. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. What season do you feel the Lord has you in right now?
3. How do you resist the enemy’s suggestions in seasons of waiting that are sometimes very long?

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!” 

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:
2 eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp cornstarch
Pinch of salt
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups shredded unsweetened coconut
Raspberry jam
18-20 frozen regular size tart shells

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Lay frozen tarts out on a foil lined cookie sheet.

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. How have you encountered Jesus through your neighbors or people in your life?
3. Have you ever considered a “love experiment” that you can practice?
4. What’s one way you can practice “crazy” generosity?
5. What holds you back from reaching out to your neighbors and strangers?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Matthew 25:35. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Living the Gospel is simple, but it’s not easy. Where can you “begin before you’re ready”?
3. Ask the Holy Spirit where he wants you to zoom in - what is He saying to you?

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.”

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Have you ever experienced a time when God defeated the darkness in your life and brought you into light?
3. What are some of your favorite spiritual weapons for combating darkness in your life? 
4. Do you ever ask the saints and angels for help and support in living in the light?
5. What is a daily “prayer prescription” you can start to implement in your everyday life?

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

Scripture for Lectio Divina - John 1:5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

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
2 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 1/4 teaspoons salt

4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1 cup oil or melted butter
2 cups grated carrots
2 cups pureed canned pineapple in juice

Cream Cheese Frosting

8oz cream cheese
1/2 cup butter softened
2 cups icing sugar sifted
1 tsp vanilla

Instructions
Sift dry ingredients together in bowl

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Have you ever been through a time when practicing gratitude changed your experience or your perspective?
3. What do you think of the connection between a spirit of gratitude and overcoming an orphan spirit?
4. How can you practically cultivate gratitude in your everyday life?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Thessalonians 5:16-19. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. It takes humility to experience gratitude. Where do you struggle to be humble and to receive what is being offered to you?
3. Bitterness is often an obstacle to gratitude. Where are you holding on to bitterness?

Quote to Ponder - Jesus does not demand great action from us, but simply surrender and gratitude.” - St. Thérèse of Lisieux

Scripture for Lectio Divina -  Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. Do not quench the spirit. - Thessalonians 5:16-19

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:
1/2 cup whole fashioned oats lightly cooked
Handful of walnuts
1/2 an apple
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon coconut oil (yay yummy fat!)
Splash of 1/2 and 1/2

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:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. What does the idea of wonder evoke for you?
3. What are some things that have always made you stop and wonder?
4. How can you change your rhythm to allow God space to speak into your life?
5. What is the main thing that causes wonder to get lost in your experience of life?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Psalm 72:18-19. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Are you open daily to allowing the Lord to amaze you in big and small ways? 
3. How do you feel God is calling you to cultivate wonder?

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.

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
Sign up for the Blessed Is She gathering hosted by Michelle Benzinger

Heather’s one thing - Banana bread recipe

Makes 2 loaves.

1 cup butter softened (250 mL)
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 cups pureed ripe bananas (about 6)
4 eggs, well beaten
2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour (625 mL)
2 tsp baking soda (10 mL)
1 tsp salt (5 mL)
1 tsp ground cinnamon (5 mL)
1 1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chips

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!
Take 15% off your purchase with the discount code - Abide15

Some suggestions if you want to start reading Flannery O'Connor!

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Have you experienced the Holy Spirit in a personal way? How?
3. What is your favorite characteristic of the Holy Spirit?
4. What are some misperceptions you have had about the Holy Spirit? What is the truth?
5. The Holy Spirit is the comforter. Where do you need His comfort now?

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: John 14:16-17 What does it speak to you personally? 
2. How can you grow in sensitivity and openness to the Holy Spirit? Where have you resisted giving him full access?
3. What is the Holy Spirit trying to teach you today?

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”.

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
Holy Land Pilgrimage with the Swaffords, Cavins’ and Fr. Mike Schmitz

Michelle’s one thing -

Amazon Greenhouse Storefront LinkOasis Song by Kalley 

Heather’s one thing -

See the Light - Hillsong Worship
No One But You - Hillsong Worship

Discussion questions:    

1. What struck you from the podcast?
2. Have you experienced an encounter with Jesus in a personal way? Share about that.
3. Building a relationship with Jesus takes time and space. Where can I create that time and space this week? 
4. What are some of the titles of Jesus that resonate with you? 

Journal Questions:

1. Reflect and journal about this scripture: Hebrews 4:15. What does it speak to you personally? 
2. Who is Jesus to me?
3. What are some of the desires in my heart that I’m afraid Jesus can’t fulfill? What do I hear Jesus say to me there?