On The Road To Perfection: Recent Episodes
Beth and Kristofer Cowles
Holy Owned and Operated presents “On The Road To Perfection,” a weekly discussion between Beth and Kristofer Cowles focused on living the Catholic Faith as they take their evening walk.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 182: Being Who We Are Supposed To BeBeing Who We Are Supposed To Be is something you hear in our episodes all the time. Make no mistake about it, we are not experts at it in practice – but we are a lot better than we used to be because we are purposeful in our pursuit of being perfect in it – hence being on the road to perfection! Because of our ups and downs, we can share what being who we are supposed to be is and how to put it into practice – and how to recover when we fail at it. In this episode, we share what it means to be who you are supposed to be, and how to get to being that!
Starting with a brief history of how we got to this way of life and raising children (and ourselves!), we get into our natural calling as Men and Women – and other possibilities if there are chromosomal challenges. We talk about that natural calling God wants us to be, and then what comes out of that – what other vocations beyond being a Man or a Woman.
When growing up, we are asked, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” And the answer always seems to be a doing – a Fireman, A scientist, a Doctor. But those are “doings”, not “beings”.
But then we spend our life pursuing doing what we think we want to do, instead of spending that time discerning who God wants us to be. If we discern His intention and desire for our life – our being – He will then provide for us the necessary means to support that being: the doing.
We all have a personal call to holiness: Our vocation. Our vocation – our being who we are supposed to be – is who God created us to be to achieve holiness and He then reveals through discernment how we are going to walk that path, and be on this road to holiness: the road to perfection.
First, we get on the wrong foot, not discerning our Man or Woman vocation and recognizing that he has created us to be those, and then we get on anther wrong foot by not discerning the call to holiness, but instead a call to pleasure – what is going to be fun, make me happy, give me pleasure; as opposed to what is going to fulfill my mission that God has planned for me and bring me JOY. Jesus says, “I came that you might have joy, and that it might be complete.”
Being who we are supposed to be will bring us joy. It follows, then, that not being who we are supposed to be will bring us misery and unhappiness. Which explains why so many people in this world do not have joy: they are not being who they are supposed to be.
Complete joy is in Heaven, and being who we are supposed to be sets us up for Heaven. If we decide who we are going to be without God in the discernment process, we may be far off the mark.
We further explain how a boy knows he is a man, and a girl a woman. And who gets to tell them when they are. As parents we do a lot of telling and instructing on the doing, but rarely on the being, that leads to knowing when Man- or Womanhood has been achieved.
There are virtues necessary to master or have in good practice to achieve being who we are supposed to be. We discuss some of these, and what true obstacles they can be to becoming who we are supposed to be.
In twenty minutes, we squeeze almost an entire three-night parish mission. Hope you can hang on for the ride!
Some items on our site that will help in Being Who We Are Supposed To Be, or at least get you started:
TWMWU: He Was Made Perfect
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 2 – Episode 75
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Being Perfect – Episode 165
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Podcast Episode: Discernment – What It Is and Isn’t – Episode 176
Podcast Episode: Discernment – Peace And Freedom – Episode 180
Podcast Episode: Discernment As A Couple – Episode 181
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Being Who We Are Supposed To Be.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 181: Couple DiscernmentWe are not perfect. We strive for perfection, on the road to Perfection. As a couple, Beth and Kristofer work hard to be who we are supposed to be every day. Sometimes we fail, and sometimes we fail spectacularly! There is less likelihood if the couple discerns together, as one, and there is greater opportunity and possibility of forgiveness, reconciliation, and being better and doing better moving forward. Discerning as a couple starts with some basic rules, one of which we talked about when we opened this series with the episode The No Always Wins. As we begin this episode, we talk about Deaconate Formation as a good model to start with concerning that critical tool.
A lot of what we have practiced in our own marriage comes from Beth’s parents, as well as a great gift from Kristofer’s Dad. While not explicitly taught, each of these deserve the credit for us being generally good at discerning as a couple. Anytime we fail, it’s on us!
After an emotional start, we dive into the how-to.
Everything we decide and do has a ripple effect.
And we aren’t talking about what’s for dinner. We’re talking about discerning as a couple for family, family, planning, and managing the ongoing aspects of life together that challenge us every day. Just thinking about a decision without involving our spouse still affects our spouse. When we talk about discerning as a couple, it involves every aspect of the past episodes, and being certain to not fall into group think or fail to consult consult other sources. Reading scripture, praying together, going to Mass together are all parts of being married that should be in a discernment. The Lord speaks most explicitly to us through our spouse – if we listened and have created the marital relationship that allows it.
Discerning as a couple is not “natural” so much as it is something that we have to grow into. The better formed each individual is, the better formed and informed the marriage is. Discerning as a couple is supernatural because of that. Remember, we are discerning the better over the good.
We take the last few moments to address couple discernment missing in a relationship that we believe leads to the significant number of divorces in married couples after the children have all left the house.
This series has been a thumbnail of the Discernment Parish Mission we provide, tailored to the needs of the community and the needs of the individuals in that community. When your diocese, parish, organization, or individuals need help figuring out God’s direction for them, this is what we help with – giving you tools to keep and practice so that you, too, can reach the goal of discernment – peace and freedom that brings you closer to God, more perfect, more holy, in concert with your primary vocation, on the path you’re supposed to be on – the Road to Perfection – so you can know who you are supposed to be, be who you are supposed to be, and do what you are supposed to do.
We are glad to help! Contact us here!
Previous Episodes in this Discernment Series:
Discernment – What It Is and What It Isn’t – Episode 176
Discernment – Listening For God – Episode 177
Discernment – Listening To God – Episode 178
Discernment – Being Open To God’s Messengers – Episode 179
Discernment – Peace and Freedom – Episode 180
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – Peace and Freedom, or at least get you started:
Page: Letters Home
Page: Prayer Basics
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Video: Spirit In Life – Exploring the Holy Spirit | A Video Series
Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Peace
TWMWU: Follow Christ!
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Praying With Your Spouse, Part I – OTRTP0004
Podcast Episode: Peace – Episode 32
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 2 – Episode 75
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discerning As A Couple.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 180: Discernment – Peace and FreedomWhen you are in the Will of God, you will feel a profound sense of discernment’s peace and freedom. And that is the key to knowing if you have discerned rightly. In this episode, we wrap up individual discernment by discussing the key indicators that tell you that you are on the right track – that you are being and doing as God has ordained. It’s a terrific sense of accomplishment, regardless of what you are called to be or do – even when you discern something that hurts to discern. With a grand example involving Santa Claus, we jump in and get to that peace and freedom idea.
Discernment is not necessarily about choosing right from wrong; it’s about choosing the better of the good, choosing the lord over us.
Love is an action, and discernment is an action culminating in a decision that requires more action. Peace and freedom are the sense one has that informs them that the action required after the decision is in God’s Will – and that action will bring about what God has ordained, proving He does not deny what he has ordained.
Discernment needs to be completed; decisions have to be made. We can get stuck in the thinking circle instead of the discernment cycle = which has a beginning and an end…with a continuation. Peace and freedom give us the strength to follow through on the determination – and if we do not have that peace and freedom, we may have made a decision just to make a decision.
This series has been a thumbnail of the Discernment Parish Mission we provide, tailored to the needs of the community and the needs of the individuals in that community. When your diocese, parish, organization, or individuals need help figuring out God’s direction for them, this is what we help with – giving you tools to keep and practice so that you, too, can reach the goal of discernment – peace and freedom that brings you closer to God, more perfect, more holy, in concert with your primary vocation, on the path you’re supposed to be on – the Road to Perfection – so you can know who you are supposed to be, be who you are supposed to be, and do what you are supposed to do.
We are glad to help! Contact us here!
PS: There’s one more discernment topic; Couple discernment, which fits in great with marriage preparation and married couples’ groups and retreats!
Previous Episodes in this Discernment Series:
Discernment – What It Is and What It Isn’t – Episode 176
Discernment – Listening For God – Episode 177
Discernment – Listening To God – Episode 178
Discernment – Being Open To God’s Messengers – Episode 179
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – Peace and Freedom, or at least get you started:
Page: Letters Home
Page: Prayer Basics
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Video: Spirit In Life – Exploring the Holy Spirit | A Video Series
Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Peace
TWMWU: Follow Christ!
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Peace – Episode 32
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discernment – Peace and Freedom.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 179: Discernment – Being Open To God’s MessengersWho and what speaks for God? In this episode about Discernment – Being Open to God’s Messengers – we share an in-depth example of one of many episodes in our family’s life that speaks clearly to the idea that God speaks to us through many messengers. The idea of being who we are supposed to be is key to noticing these messengers and being open to them working for God’s purpose in our lives; oftentimes inadvertently and unknowingly. But God does not shout, nor does He deny that which He has ordained – so the message has to get to us somehow. It gets to us through God’s messengers.
Recognizing and being open to God’s messengers is another key to proper, effective, and correct discernment. When we are prejudiced to the possibility of a messenger, or when we are determined that someone or something must be a messenger, we place God in a box. Being open to God means accepting that, yes, He works in mysterious ways but, more importantly, recognizing that He will speak to us in unexpected ways. Oftentimes being open to God’s messengers means getting rid of our suppositions of impossibility and seeing who or what God puts in front of us when we honestly dislodge ourselves from doubt.
Being open to God’s messengers means that discernment is not a one man show, and that discernment is not the same as decision-making. God’s messengers come in whatever form God chooses them to come in, and in this episode, we help you see that. So, do not be surprised by God’s messengers – and don’t be surprised if you are surprised. And if you are surprised, it may not be appropriate to pigeon-hole God into that box, either.
Confused? You won’t be after this episode – an episode we have a lot of fun with in parish missions and hope it stimulates you to dig deeper into discernment. Being open to God’s messengers starts with being open to how the one message is sent through many different ways.
Previous Episodes in this Discernment Series:
Discernment – What It Is and What It Isn’t – Episode 176
Discernment – Listening For God – Episode 177
Discernment – Listening To God – Episode 178
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – Being Open to God’s Messengers, or at least get you started:
Page: Letters Home
Page: Prayer Basics
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Video: Spirit In Life – Exploring the Holy Spirit | A Video Series
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discernment – Being Open to God’s Messengers.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 178: Discernment – Listening To GodDiscernment – listening to God – is different than listening for Him that we discussed in the last episode. As we continue this discussion on discernment, listening to God seems to be an obvious step. But is it? And how should we actually do that? That’s what we talk about, and it is vital to understand the difference – and how to practice them in their proper context. So, with a lot of laughs and example, we get into it.
Being able to listen to God includes prayer, prayer from others, and going deeper into our faith. Take advantage of spiritual development opportunities, retreats, ministries, and asking for mentorship.
We consider the idea that God does not deny that which He ordains, and we use Moses for that example (because our personal one is a bit too funny!).
A big key, for us, is the Mass. There is some serious discernment opportunity going on there, and we help you open up to see that, to hear that, and to listen to God in it.
Listening to God is hearing Him AND acting upon it. And we drive the point home that anybody who is a parent or a child can understand!
Previous Episodes in this Discernment Series:
Discernment – What It Is and What It Isn’t – Episode 176
Discernment – Listening For God – Episode 177
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – Listening to God, or at least get you started:
Page: Letters Home
Page: Prayer Basics
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Video: Spirit In Life – Exploring the Holy Spirit | A Video Series
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discernment – Listening To God.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 177: Discernment – Listening For GodDiscernment – listening for God being a necessary part of it, is not hard or difficult, and we hope this episode helps you hear that. In our second episode of the series based on our Parish Mission on Family and Discerning, we talk about this significant step in the discernment process. We must say, “Speak Lord, for your servant is listening,” and we need to mean it – and do it. God is constantly waiting for us to listen “for” Him before we can listen “to” Him. Here’s how.
While applying some standard practices is important, and there are “ingredients” that can’t be missing [“Cake less eggs ain’t cake,” as Kristofer points out] we have to invite God into our discernment process, subordinating ourselves to Him.
Invoking St. Augustine, St. Ignatius, St. Mary, and so much more, we jump into how this part of discernment – listening for God – is so much about being open to The Lord and His words of everlasting life. We point out scripture that helps us open up to Him, and how these words and some practices are key to listening for HIm.
Making ourselves available to Him, so we can honestly listen for God, is a big next step. It seems obvious, but there are tons of examples and suggestions we give, regardless of your station in life or what you do during the day.
Beth shares and teaches while Kristofer goes ballistic on God. We have the calm listener and, as Kristofer puts it, “The Jacob, wrestling with God.” Whether in your life you find yourself not available to God as a homemaker like Kristofer or a busy professional like Beth, there are options. To prove the point of how important it is to be available to God, we share a story of lifesaving that happened to us not long ago.
Time, place, and manner matter for discernment – listening for God is not a constant practice that is not affected by changes in our lives. We must be constantly vigilant to how we are listening for God, so that, like Jesus, we can find a new spot to listen for God. We may have to go off to a mountain for Discernment. Listening for God, though, comes from picking the mountain and going, not waiting until you get back around to the mountain you prayed from when life was different.
Ending with a poignant story about our friend Barry and him hearing the voice of God (and finally moving forward in his discernment by listening for God), we meet Walter – and wonder what God is telling us in his bark.
Previous Episodes in this Discernment Series:
Discernment – What It Is and What It Isn’t – Episode 176
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – Listening For God, or at least get you started:
Page: Prayer Basics
TWMWU:This Great Gift
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discernment – Listening For God.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 176: Discernment – What It Is and Isn’tThis entire series is an abridged version of the parish mission we give on discernment.
Discernment – What It Is and Isn’t – is a discussion we all need to have with ourselves, and each other. We aren’t talking about what to make for dinner or wear to work. This is about our being and our doing according to God’s Plane. The foundation to that is being who we are supposed to be, and discerning who that is requires figuring out what our primary vocation is. This episode we dive into discernment for the first in a series of walk and talks about discernment.
In this first episode we discuss what discernment is and isn’t. What is discernment? Is it a quick and easy decision, or does it always have to be a life-changing possibility? Who is involved in our discernment? Is it just us talking to God, or is there some listening involved – and if so, how do we hear Him, or distinguish His voice from the myriad others?
We first must decide to follow Christ, be a child of God, because it is very difficult to hear God’s voice if we are not listening for it, and it is hard to listen if we are not a disciple. What is DISCernment? It first requires being a DISCiple.
Our primary vocation is our core being. Discernment – what it is and isn’t – involves first seriously determining who we are supposed to be…and then following through with that!
We share some examples of what discernment is and how we discern, giving a foundation for the rest of this series.
As we kick-off this series, we hope and pray for you to find the peace and sense of freedom we find in our discernment. We promise it is not easy even once you come to this sense of peace and freedom, but it is consoling, empowering, and gives a deeper sense of happiness on the road to perfection!
Some items on our site that will help in Discernment – What It Is and Isn’t, or at least get you started:
Page: Letters Home
Article: Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Video: Spirit In Life – Exploring the Holy Spirit | A Video Series
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Discerning God’s Will – Part 1 – Episode 74
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Discernment – What It Is and Isn’t.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 175: The No Always WinsIn Holy Matrimony – Marriage – there has to be a couple of rules. “The No Always Wins” is a major foundation of our marriage, and we think it is helpful for everyone else, too. Decision-making in a marriage, no matter how simple or significant the decision is that needs to be made, is ALWAYS a two-person proposition. So, what happens when both spouses do NOT agree? You guessed it: The no always wins.
Decisions are changes. Something in life is going to change, and a marriage is one life, a life together. Let no one put it asunder, not even – and especially – one of the spouses.
The no always wins simply means that one of the spouses is not ready for change. It is an absolute veto power. Committing to allowing that is crucial to a successful marriage. The fact that the no always wins means that that person is not ready for the change, or cannot make the change without maintaining some normalcy or taking the change in stride.
Taking a new job, moving, deciding whether to have a gun in the house, where the kids go to school, these are all significant decisions that require harmony between a husband and wife. But so are the small decisions like what kind of macaroni and cheese the family will eat. Every time a decision is made by one spouse, it is as if the other has made the decision. Do we invoke the no for things like macaroni and cheese? Not typically, and we discuss that.
With a significant example from early in our marriage, we dig into the emotions of putting into practice that the no always wins. We discuss the gut-wrenching need to share WHY we are saying, “No,” and that “Because” is not a fair answer. If we are asking our spouse to trust, and not have resentment for our veto, we have to give honest feedback so that we can grow together, understanding each other’s hopes, dreams, fears, and doubts.
The no always wins is relationship-building. It cannot be used for manipulation, or a weapon. And the marriage always wins if we let the no always win by committing to using it honestly.
Some items on our site that will help in The No Always Wins, or at least get you started:
TWMWU:What is Marriage?(Opens in a new browser tab)
Article:Eros – Sexual Romantic Love
Podcast Episode: Praying With Your Spouse, Part I
Podcast Episode: Praying With Your Spouse, Part II
Podcast Episode: Marriage Preparation – Episode 40
Podcast Episode: On the Road to Perfection – Episode 166
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Podcast Episode: (Re)Building Trust With Our Spouse – Episode 170
Podcast Episode: (Re)Building Trust With Our Children – Episode 171
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with The No Always Wins.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 174: BalanceAnswering another listener’s question, we tackle having and creating balance in our busy lives. Balance in pursuing perfection is a difficult prospect. As the year begins, we explore “How do I have balance in my life between family and providing for my family?”: Work/Life balance, as it has been called. How do we do that? Well, we talk about that, first by defining balance in the context of the listener who asked us the question, and then we tackle it from the idea of Catholicism and God Himself giving us clues as to how to have balance. As opposed to a Work/Family paradigm, we need to have a God/Life balance.
Eventually it all comes down to being who we are supposed to be so we can then do what we are supposed to do to support our being.
It sounds simple, which it is. But it isn’t easy.
Using an example from a friend of ours, we get to the point pretty quick: Balance comes from the Eucharist.
If we are not focused on God, and what He wants for us, the natural consequence is an unbalanced life.
You’ll have to focus during this episode, as we continue to have technical difficulties due to our equipment that is falling apart. You may have to turn it up in some places: Kristofer’s audio is a bit muted at times, because of this broken equipment we cannot afford to replace (hint, hint). [DONATE HERE, PLEASE!]
Some items on our site that will help in Balance, or at least get you started:
Product: VBS – Not Your Average Joe
TWMWU: What Does Ephphatha Mean? Be Opened!
TWMWU: God of the Living
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: Making Time For Prayer – Episode 146
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Balance.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 173: Sibling RivalryActing on a question from a listener, sibling rivalry is our focus, particularly rivalry for parents’ attention and rivalry with each other.
Taking a guess at Scripture, with a caveat from Kristofer, Beth starts us off with an understanding of gifts and talents and skills and understanding there is no “better” when comparing these apples and oranges. Kristofer pulls St. Faustina out of nowhere to share her encounter with Jesus and His purpose for people having varying degrees of virtues.
Sibling rivalry is a constant, in some fashion, in lots of families, and it can be destructive if not channeled and formed properly in an understanding that we are a community, even – and particularly – as a family, where we learn to be a part of many communities throughout our lives.
We each share some stories from our youth to exemplify sibling rivalry and to help us get to the point that sibling rivalry can spread like a disease into adulthood if not handled properly.
We share some examples of sibling rivalry amongst our own children and how we have approached those situations, as well.
Let’s not let sibling rivalry become a virus, and instead become a relationship-building opportunity. And we only get there by looking to Our Lord for His examples, and how he dealt with it amongst His brothers the Apostles, and the community at large, and how Paul did, too with the communities of the early Church.
Gratitude is a key, and we share some practices you can implement. It’s never too late!
You may have to turn it up in some places: Kristofer’s audio is a bit muted at times, because we have broken equipment we cannot afford to replace (hint, hint).[DONATE HERE, PLEASE!]
Some items on our site that will help in Sibling Rivalry, or at least get you started:
TWMWU:
TWMWU:
TWMWU:
Article:
Article:
Podcast Episode: Community – OTRTP0006
Podcast Episode: The Incarnation – Episode 72
Podcast Episode: Almsgiving During Lent – Episode 84
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: How DO I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Podcast Episode: Walking In The Catholic Faith – Episode 167
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Sibling Rivalry.
We dive into this sometimes confusing and dismissed time of the liturgical calendar by exploring how life is Advent. Life is a series of endings, and to have endings, we must have beginnings. Our traditions pepper this discussion, along with the big things in our life and your life, and we offer some sanity to the confusing schedule of Masses you may be dealing with going into the Fourth Week of Advent, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
Controversial out of the gate - but honest as always! - we jump right into trust between parents and their children by talking about a BIG reason parents need to rebuild trust with their kids. This is not a marriage counseling session, but we talk straight-up about divorce from personal experience before we get into the meat of the matter, and this was a question a listener asked. Of course, there are many reasons for having to rebuild trust with our children, and there are great ways to build trust with our children. It's a packed episode, so jump down off the curb and walk with us!
Answering a question from a listener, we chat about building trust with our spouse, and rebuilding trust with our spouse, no matter the circumstance. Seriously - no broken trust is too broken, and we discuss that. We acknowledge difficulty in various situations, but get to the core pretty quickly.We share our deepest breach that we recovered from - yep, that one - and explore in-depth how you can recover, too.We give two very specific practices that will start working for you immediately!
We cover the facts in the first thirty seconds, making this the easiest and fastest podcast listen one might every have. We are consuming flesh and blood, soul and divinity when we receive the Eucharist; and we thought it important to discuss that and proclaim it.
Asking the dead to pray for us can be a bit discomforting. It can seem blasphemous, useless, or silly superstition. But asking the dead to pray for us makes absolute perfect sense when we consider the belief that "we are all one body" and that body does not have separate, disparate parts that exist away from each other.
Walking in the Catholic Faith is an important part of Being Perfect and Being On The Road To perfection. In this episode, we focus on that walk, and what it means. How do we start walking in the Catholic Faith? How do we keep doing it, and encourage others to do it? Are we all walking the same path?
We are called to be perfect, as we discussed last week. So, what does being on the road to perfection look like? If Jesus was "finished" and his ministry was "completed," as it means when He said, "It is done," by saying, "It is perfected" just before He died on the Cross, He must have walked a road to perfection. And so must we. In this episode we discuss that concept, in terms of what we are doing and how we respond to the call for our life. It's a simple concept, and a difficult task, but we have the example of Our Lord which, from the proper perspective, is not an impossible example to follow and exemplify.
Being Perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect is a daunting idea! Starting from the beginning, when we first launched the podcast, we talk about Jesus' use of the word "perfect" in Matthew 5:48, its Greek etymology, and His use of the same word only one other place in His ministry - when He is dying on the Cross. Being Perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect is to be who we are supposed to be, just as God is Who He is supposed to be. So how do we BE perfect? Glad you asked. The answer is here!
God's time is not our time. Well, duh! In this episode that is short on time - possibly our shortest episode ever - we discuss the intricacies of life complicated by our concept of timing and how our own blindness to the Plan of The Lord makes us impatient as He works for our good with His Goodness, Beauty, and Truth. When we do not think God is responding to our prayers, it does not mean He isn't involved and not doing things. When we are kids, we try to get God to do things, to fit him into our expectations. Do we still do that as adults? When we are non-believers, does some of that lack of faith come from not getting, having, or experiencing what we think should be happening?
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 163: The Love Of Money1 Timothy 6:10 is our source for this topic (not Proverbs, as we erroneously say!). We discuss the love of money in the context of the Mass reading recently about the rich young man asking Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. We look at the idea of a camel fitting through the eye of a needle more easily than a rich person might enter heaven, and explore what that actually means. Does God hate rich people? No. Does the Church tell us not to be rich? No. What if we are rich – does this story apply to us? Well, we are, and that depends…
Riches come in many forms. And they can cause vanity, pride, and a million other things that distract us from The Lord. If we are distracted by our riches – those things that make us feel rich, important, better than others, etc. – including the “right” group, even a youth group that’s “cool”, then those riches are exactly what Jesus is talking about.
Are we rich in our knowledge? Rich in our athletic ability? Rich in the number of friends we have?
These are all questions of wealth we need to see that apply to us when we hear this story of Jesus and the rich young man. The riches that distract us are no different than the riches of the rich young man – they can be distracting and can be what we gain our identity from. Our identity should always be in Jesus.
How many rich people did Jesus meet during His ministry? Many more than this encounter reveals. Jesus knows what distracts us from His Father, and this young man’s distraction was his monetary wealth. For others it can be anything of a myriad of possibilities.
We are all rich in something? Are we humble enough to keep that from distracting us from The Lord, so that we, to, may inherit eternal life?
Some items on our site that will help in exploring Relics, or at least get you started:
TWMWU: All Things are Possible For God
TWMWU: The Important Things
TWMWU: Complacency Kills
Article: Putting God to the Test of Higher “Education”
Article: What is Love?
Podcast Episode: God’s Beauty – Episode 160
Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with The Love Of Money.
Instigated by a question from our oldest son, we dive into the macabre!
Not really, but Kristofer has some issues with the idea of venerating body parts.
Fortunately, Beth has the more reasoned approach that the Church has, and Kristofer winds up understanding, but not on-board.
Relics are hard to understand, and the venerating of them is not a requirement to be Catholic.
It's a practice that is encouraged if it will help an individual focus on Jesus.
The saints are saints in large part because they point us to The Lord, and those relics are meant to help us do the same.
We define relics and explain what veneration is in this episode.
"Because I said so" is never the answer.
We do not typically get into exact parenting practices, but this was an occasion that happened after Mass that Kristofer thought needed addressing.
Raised in an environment where asking "Why" was not allowed when parental direction, guidance, or discipline was being meted out, Kristofer and Beth relate a family story that exemplifies this situation and, in the process, discuss how it has been psychologically shown that Dads have a god-like aura to their children until their late teens.
We dive into taking our cues from our perfect Dad in heaven.
God NEVER says "Because I Said So."
Neither should we.
As it was last week, the Big Ball of Twine Tour 2023 is the backdrop for this episode.
This recent vacation of ours brought us the opportunity to experience God's Beauty in many forms, and we talk about the profound experience and permanent impression it made upon us.
We dig into the incomparable depth of God's Beauty, juxtaposed against Man's Beauty; and we start out doing so by taking on Devil's Tower!
Our discussion answers questions you may not know you had, and it starts a lifelong discussion we hope you have with your selves, your loved ones, and your God.
We will.
The Big Ball of Twine Tour 2023 is the context for this episode.
This recent vacation of ours brought us the opportunity to experience Man's Beauty in many forms, and we explore this phenomenon that we experienced intimately.
After an unintended humorous opening prayer, and refusing to melt into a puddle of goo in the heat, we discuss, in-depth, Man's Beauty, and the beauty he makes with what the Creator has given us - our talents and resources.
This week, Beth drops a surprise topic on Kristofer after his opening prayer.
Beth says that Ordinary Time is not ordinary, and Kristofer does his best to grasp the mathematical meaning behind the word, thanks to his patito, Kora, educating him a few weeks earlier.
With the ice cream van trolling the neighborhood and tempting us at every turn. we discuss how extraordinary ordinary time really is - starting with a parish in Connecticut and the miracles that happen around the world, every single day in thousands of places.
Ordinary time is not ordinary - it cannot be!
So, let's dig in...
Kristofer's sister comes to mind as we begin by talking about pickle juice.
Beginning with the end in mind in our conversation is not a discourse on Stephen Covey, though we do give him credit here and intertwined throughout On The Road To Perfection for bringing Kristofer to the Catholic Faith, and it is a conversation that Covey would appreciate.
As Beth says, the "end" would be our "telos", which Kristofer jumps on for the meaning of "perfected."
This is a conversation of "Eschatology," which is the study of the last things.
Are you ready for a conversation about the end goal of what the road to perfection leads us to?
Well, here it comes!
It's Romper Room time at Holy Owned and Operated!
Who do you see?
After a list of names and a Laurie Anderson reference, Beth hits Kristofer with a topic out of the blue.
Kristofer answers right away, and condemns the rest of us – including him – but of course leaving out Beth.
But wait for the end to be sure.
We see everybody around us - especially at Mass and other Church functions - as good and better than us.
So, it is natural to wonder if we are good enough to be Catholic.
After making sure we aren't having technical difficulties we jump right in: Am I good enough to be Catholic?
Summer Catholicism does not make sense.
The Church is Universal, and Summer happens every year.
Why do we turn into summer Catholics when the kids get out of school?
So many seem to take the summer off, as if a change in schedule justifies a change in celebrating days of holy obligation.
We discuss this fun topic on a 95-degree day, and it is obvious the heat gets to us.
Delirium, goofiness, and straight-up ridonculousness ensue as we unwittingly realize it is our third anniversary for the podcast.
We've been doing this for three straight years, no interruption!
So, enjoy this fun twenty minutes of just craziness while actually giving great suggestions on how to keep our Catholic practices - and Faith! - during the summer while we are still relaxing.
And then there's the cake.
Are there levels of love in how we love others?
Is how we love God different than how we should love one another?
Are caritas, agape, storge, filial, eros different levels?
In this episode, we talk about that, and how love is a many splendored thing - but does it have levels, or people who are subject to or should receive more or less love than others?
We discuss how our love reflects upon us and our relationship with God, and reveals how much we actually follow the Greatest Commandment.
What level of love do we give Jesus, who is my neighbor, and how do we love our enemies?
Big questions, and we give our meager answers...
Joy in obedience?
How's that?! Come again?
As Beth explains in the beginning, it makes sense that a virtue begets a fruit of the Spirit.
Kristofer picks up the ball and goes big picture, explaining that doing what God says leads to joy.
But what about the suffering that comes about when obeying God?
Still = supreme joy!
From God to the world to the nations to us personally obeying God, we talk about the difference between joy and happiness and where all of this obedience applies.
Parents will find this useful to listen to with children of all ages.
Our Favorite Scripture may seem a bit-self-serving, but this episode is actually the first one for us to offer you to directly participate in On The Road To Perfection!
Priming the pump with our individual favorite scripture passages, we end by encouraging you to send us your favorites, in a short video.
After an impromptu musical interlude, we each provide three of our favorite scripture verses.
We have lots of scripture passages we like, but we whittle it down so we stick to the twenty minutes.
Kristofer kicks it off with his favorite and most consequential verse: an obscure verse from Jeremiah...
Why do we go on retreat?
Is it really just to get away from people we do not want to be around>
Well...
Elijah, Moses, Jesus - these guys went on retreat, so why not us?
In fact, they went on retreat more than once.
All the time, it seems!
We often say to ourselves we should go on retreat, which is a great indication that God is telling us that very thing.
In this episode, we talk about all that, from the Prodigal Son to the Apostles, "retreat" is everywhere in the Bible.
We break it down for you, giving you the reasons God is calling you to retreat, and the fortitude you need to put your foot down and do it.
And, we do all that while looking at flowers and singing songs.
You can skip that part...
The doctrine of Just War is a difficult thing to comprehend, let alone explain.
We all question every armed conflict, and support or decry it based on our own perceptions of the situation.
Is that right?
How does the Church view the conflict in Ukraine?
How does the Church view its own armed conflicts, and those warriors who fought and killed in the name of Jesus and Mother Church?
Where does following orders fall into this doctrine?
For more than 1600 years, The Church has reconciled turning the other cheek with a natural right to self-defense.
In this episode, we tackle the doctrine of Just War, giving the four tests as laid out in the Catechism, and attempt to share the idea in a way that can be shared with children to help them understand - which means Kristofer understands, too!
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 149: IndulgencesIndulgences are controversial because they are confusing, and confusing because they are controversial. What gives!? You got questions? We got answers…but not all of them! But certainly, the big ones to help you understand indulgences, and even answer a few questions others might have. In this episode, we tackle indulgences at the request of a listener. After reading the request, we dive in, starting with Beth blindsiding Kristofer with the task of defining indulgences. Then it becomes a journey of theology, Biblical studies, and an exploration of the Church’s command and responsibility received from Jesus Christ Himself. We look at everything from the First Crusade to Purgatory to Confession, Divine Mercy to Suffering, and even rock throwing and Jimmy Carter!
We dive deeper, sharing how we as members of the Church Militant can gain indulgences for the Church Suffering, and explain the difference between Plenary and Partial indulgences, giving a shout out to martyrs – known and unknown – and practices. We even admit that we don’t know everything about them, and that there is more to indulgences than what we share.
Embracing technology while we walk (Actually, Beth does, since Kristofer would trip all over himself!), Beth gives us some straight doo-doo after Kristofer picks the right Pope out of his back pocket! It’s truly a fun walk on a deep topic, and we hope you can hang on for the ride!
REFERENCES:
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
TWMWU: Intercessory Prayer
TWMWU: This Great Gift
TWMWU: What Does Ephphatha Mean? Be Opened!
TWMWU: We Believe In The Resurrection
TWMWU: Take Up Our Cross!
Podcast Episode: The Magisterium – Episode 47
Podcast Episode: Death – Episode 52
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: All Soul’s Day – Episode 119
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in The Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: The Immaculate Conception – Episode 125
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: Are You Saved? – Episode 136
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD? – Episode 145
Podcast Episode: Why Do We Believe In and Follow Church Teachings? – Episode 147
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 148: Faith And ReasonFaith and Reason do not conflict – in fact, they MUST co-mingle in and infuse our daily lives. This week Beth and Kristofer discuss a topic on which they should be called experts. For many years they have catechized us, adults, elementary, middle-school, high school, and college youth on this topic that some of the greatest minds have never been able to wrap their heads around. Beth and Kristofer give us the Church’s response to Nietzsche, Hawking, Russell, and many other’s in their down-to-earth well-reasoned manner, that will help you declare and be confident in your reasoned and reasonable faith! As Kristofer says, the resurrection happened. It’s a reality LOTS of people saw. It takes reason to explain it. Faith and Reason go hand-in-hand, and this episode laser-focuses on that reality.
Beth and Kristofer discuss Faith and Reason in the daily life of Americans in particular, using the topics of abortion, loving your neighbor, and what an informed conscience truly is. They even cover the Golden Rule – from a Christina perspective and the satanic perspective! Plus, the unreasonable idea of being baptized again, and how Jesus took care of that – reasonably!
Kristofer reminds us why we believe in the Creed, the prayer we recite at every Mass. But we can’t forget that we can’t have blind faith, as Beth and Kristofer put it succinctly, without Reason, there can be no Faith!
REFERENCES:
Pope Saint John Paul II’s quote from Fides et Ratio (Faith and Reason):
“Faith and reason are like two wings on which the human spirit rises to the contemplation of truth; and God has placed in the human heart a desire to know the truth—in a word, to know himself—so that, by knowing and loving God, men and women may also come to the fullness of truth about themselves.”
Our FAR OUT (Faith And Reason, Outdoor Unity Tour) Retreat for middle school students is great for young people before they are put headfirst into the morally dubious institution know as High School. It prepares them to defend their faith on the basis of reason, and gives them an opportunity to explore God’s great Earth at the same time, God Willing, FAR OUT IV will be next year!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
PAGE: What is Pentecost?
PAGE: Spirit In Life – Exploring The Holy Spirit – A Video Series
Podcast Episode: Why Do We Believe In and Follow Church Teaching? – Episode 147
Podcast Episode: What is Lent? – Episode 81
Podcast Episode: Caring For Our Earthly Home – Episode 95
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: Lust And Love – Episode 133
Podcast Episode: That’s The Resurrection We Believe In – Episode 143
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 147: Why Do We Believe In and Follow Church Teachings?Beth and Kristofer answer the question and right from the beginning explain where we can find the answer about the Truth of Church Teachings. Kristofer explains his own revelation that God gave him, and they discuss the Magisterial infallibility and when it is infallible. They give us some ways to defend our faith and what we’re to do if we disagree with something the Church teaches. And after a long absence, their neighbor Larry rides by and says hello.
Beth discusses that when we don’t understand things, we search for the answer. There is a reason why we do believe in and follow Church Teachings. They explain what separates the Catholic Church from Protestant Christians, and why we are the One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic Church.
REFERENCES:
Here’s our episode on The Magisterium.
Here is the bible verse for the foundation of the Church instituted by Christ: Matthew 16:18
Here is Father Will’s Holy Thursday Homily. Please pray for him and all priests. They need it, too!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Follow Christ!
TWMWU: All Things Are Possible For God
TWMWU: Glorify God By your Life
TWMWU: Fourth Sunday of Easter – Good Shepherd Sunday
Page: FAR OUT – Faith and Reason Outdoor Unity Tour
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: That’s The Resurrection We Believe In – Episode 143
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 146: Making Time For PrayerA segue from last week’s episode, Beth and Kristofer discuss this emotional topic they have struggled with, to help us all (including themselves!) lead better prayer lives! After Kristofer defines the difference between making time for prayer and praying out of love for our creator, they dive into why we need to, as Beth puts it, “Make an appointment with God.” Creating a Prayer life is difficult, but if we work towards the goal of creating a life of prayer we will have abundant joy and calm in our life; maybe someday we will all be able to say “I’m always close to God.”
Beth and Kristofer mention that our coping mechanism can be any of a plethora of things: Video Games, Movies, TV, reading, drinking, etc. These things can be replaced with something better than any of them: Prayer. Beth brings to the table the importance of prayer to de-stress from work, and that Prayer is the greatest de-stress-or. Kristofer addresses the issues of running a household, homeschooling, and working from and in the home all at once and purposefully making time for prayer.
Make time for Prayer. And when you do, pray for us. We’ll keep praying for you!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
PAGE: Prayer Basics
TWMWU: This Great Gift
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer – What and How -Episode 8
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer – Why – Episode 9
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: The Triduum – Episode 91
Podcast Episode: Being a Family of Prayer – Episode 121
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: How Do I Listen To and Hear The LORD? -Episode 145
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 145: How Do I Listen To And Hear The LORD?Kristofer and Beth did not want to do this emotionally packed episode, as evidenced by the pregnant pause at the beginning and the tears that follow. They share the difficulties of knowing how to listen to God and not being able to do it; the busy-ness of life getting in the way when you crave to just hear The LORD. With example and self-admonishment, they open up their own admission of preaching what they find difficult to practice, though they both admit to being really good at doing it – when they do it!
We need quiet time. That’s the key. Make the time to be quiet. Make the time to listen and hear The LORD.
REFERENCES:
Here’s the article Kristofer wrote, Why Doesn’t God Shout?
Fr. Albert Haase’s book on listening to God, Saying Yes: Discovering and Responding to God’s Will in Your Life
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Post: Prayer Basics
TWMWU:What is Humility? Overcoming our Passions
TWMWU: This Great Gift
TWMWU: The Bread That Came Down From Heaven
TWMWU: 2nd Week Of Lent – The LORD is My Light
Podcast Episode:Dignity and Pride Part 2 – Episode 102
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 144: Foul LanguageSpurred on by nothing but their wit and experience, Beth and Kristofer bring forth a topic in need of much discussion: Language! Or more specifically, foul language. Many use it in their day-to-day and don’t even think about it; others are highly offended by it, and some don’t care one way or the other. In this episode, Beth and Kristofer remind us of the importance of the use of proper language. They discuss the sanctity of some words, and the decorum and what we are expressing when we use it. But don’t worry! Beth and Kristofer refrain from using any words (although “Hell” is spoken as part of the question they are answering) so this episode remains family-friendly!
Using foul language used to mean something, that you were uneducated and had bad verbal skills. Today, despite our over saturation with it, it is still uncouth and vulgar to use uncouth and vulgar language. We may not recognize it, but the use of foul language debases us and those around us. We are in this world, not of it, and the words of this world are not to be trifled with.
Beth and Kristofer discuss the Theology behind the use of foul language, and it will help you think twice about using any the next time you feel like it. Also, Kristofer offers us a way to break the habit of foul language if we’re struggling with that specific vice.
REFERENCES:
We are Easter People is the episode we refer to toward the end of the episode.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Words Matter
TWMWU: Be Doers of the Word
TWMWU: Are We Sure We Know Jesus?
Podcast Episode: Glory- Episode 78
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Remember: Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with Foul Language.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 143: That’s The Resurrection We Believe InYou have to believe in the resurrection to be a Catholic. But what does that mean? In this episode, we get into this specifically, invoking Pope Benedict, and our own pastors, Father Brian Eilers and Father Will Rooney in the process. We dive right in on this topic that Beth sprung on me…but I put her on the spot to pick a topic. It was Easter Sunday when we recorded this, and we accidentally reveal Pope Benedict’s D&D level. Having some fun while we wait for our potatoes to marinate and our ham to cook, we hope you enjoy the faith formation in-between my distractions. If you stick around, you’ll hear us talk about the resurrection of Holy Owned and Operated. – Kristofer
So many people saw Jesus after the Resurrection, there is no legitimate or credible way to deny it. How do we approach this in our daily lives; how do we deal with this reality? The reality is that it is different from Lazarus’ resurrection. Lazarus died again. Jesus is alive! And that is the promise we can believe in and expect for ourselves. That’s why we are On the Road to Perfection; why we can be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect.
The Resurrection is a BIG DEAL. We hope you believe that.
REFERENCES:
We are Easter People is the episode we refer to early in the episode.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
PAGE: Easter Resources
TWMWU:We Believe In The Resurrection
TWMWU:God of the Living
TWMWU:This Is the Day the Lord Has Made
TWMWU:The Glory of God: If You Believe You Will See It
Podcast Episode: Lust And Love – Episode 133
Remember: Your suggestions, questions, and ideas for topics are what we need to keep providing great episodes. Email us or use the contact page to let us know what you would like us to talk about, or comment below to let us know if we picked a good topic with That’s The Resurrection We Believe In.
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 142: Why Catholics Do Not Celebrate PassoverToday is Holy Thursday. It is also Passover which began yesterday and continues through April 13 this year. The Jewish holiday of Pesach, or Passover, falls on the Hebrew calendar dates of Nissan 15-22. Catholics do not, and other Christians should not, celebrate Passover. Passover is a Jewish Liturgy; it is a beautiful celebration of remembrance and preparation, solemnly re-presenting the time of deliverance while Israel was enslaved by Egypt. Jesus gave us Holy Thursday in His fulfillment of all the promises He made to Israel. In this episode, we discuss the differences and the ways of celebrating the solemn preparations for the events of Good Friday and Easter that Holy Thursday sets us up for. And, of course, we go in-depth on why Catholics do not celebrate Passover.
It will make sense, I promise!
Then, I go off on a tangent about St. Joseph. Sorry…not sorry.
-Kristofer
REFERENCES:
I was right! It is Paragraph 2223 of the Catechism.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Christmas Day
TWMWU: Merry Christmas!
Podcast Episode: We Are Easter People – Episode 39
Podcast Episode: Celebrating Advent – Episode 70
Podcast Episode: The Triduum – Episode 91
Podcast Episode: All Saints Day – Episode 118
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 141: HOO Is At A CrossroadsWe wonder if HOO is really worth it, and ask for your help in navigating this crossroads. HOO may be throwing in the towel. Coming off a few weeks of intra-organizational and inter-personal conflict and second-guessing, we have a bit of an impromptu soul-searching moment that might just last for longer than this episode. That’s kind of up to you. We knew we needed to record an episode, because it was less than 18 hours before one needed to be released, and we did not have anything in reserve. So, gut-honest spur-of-the-moment commentary when I blurt out what we’ve been talking about privately became the topic. HOO is at a crossroads, and where we turn is up to you.
Do we end it all? Do we take a break? Do we repackage, revamp, renegotiate, or renege on everything and shut down? Or do we keep doing what we are doing?
Is HOO worth it? We don’t know if it really is. Our return on investment comes in the form of feedback, of which we get next to zero. There’s no paycheck; no pat on the back. No thank you. And we can only convince each other for so long that we are doing what’s right.
We do know it is worth it if it is worth it to you. We do know we have plans for what we would do with HOO if it mattered to anybody else. But does it?
We give the raw numbers of how many subscribers and listeners we have (those stats are included on the images on the right), and how that means to us what your opinion means to us. Frankly, if you are reading this word right now, you are one of probably less than ten who actually do. If you listen to this episode, you will be one of less than twenty who do.
So, we are talking to you.
Is it worth it? Do we go on? We’ll know if we hear from anybody… So will you!
Like Abraham pleading with God, (Genesis 18:16-33) if only one person finds this worthwhile, HOO will be saved. -Kristofer
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 140: Is My Penance EnoughShort answer: No, our penance is not enough! What is a “good penance”? Why do we sometimes get what seems so insignificant a penance relative to our sins? Spoiler alert – our penance is not meant to be commensurate with the crime! If it was, we would never go to Confession! In God’s infinite mercy, He asks of us exactly what we need – not what He needs (He does not need anything). So. “Is my penance enough?” is a fair question, if we consider the question deeply and the penance with reverence and awe at the price that has already been paid for our sins. God offers us the beautiful Sacrament of Reconciliation and Penitentiary Rite to heal our rift with Him. Our penance is not just a symbol – it is us uniting ourselves to Him in His sacrifice for us. We cannot pay the price for our sins. The long answer to the question is “Yes.” Listen to find out why.
Penance reconciles us to God. Who are we to question what He wants from us? When we have the chance to visit with our children who are in and out of the pew after a quick Our Father for their reconciliation with God, we should take the opportunity to help them understand the reasons behind their receiving such an “easy punishment,” as they most likely consider it.
Beth and Kristofer offer some insight on how to turn our penance into self-catechesis. They share their own experiences and explain how even the “little” penances are extraordinary and exactly what God wants us to do to grow closer to Him. They offer suggestions on how and where to consider the Reconciliation and how what we have been given is enough for Him. As Kristofer says, God is telling us, “That’s my Dr. Pepper.”
So, long answer: Yes, our Penance is enough.
REFERENCES:
Here’s our episode on The LORD’s Prayer, the prayer we dare to say, with the most dangerous word in the Bible.
Also, check out our episode on the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Page: Resources
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: Do Only Catholics Go To Heaven? – Episode 76
Podcast Episode: What Are Sacraments – Episode 103
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: Being A Family of Prayer – Episode 119
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: Are You Saved? – Episode 136
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 139: Cultural CatholicismHappy Saint Patrick’s Day! Why do we say that and not “Happy Saint Mark’s Day!”? Beth and Kristofer explore Cultural Catholicism in this episode of On The Road to Perfection. They discuss the importance of the underlying Catholic culture and why it is so much a part of our world, and they also explain why it is important to remain devout and to call others go deeper and learn more than the facade of Cultural Catholicism. And, no, Kristofer hasn’t been sneaking a nip of any of that triple-distilled unmalted barley, though it sure sounds like it at times.
But he does have a great beer-and-priest story from his conversion that he shares during this fast-paced episode.
Beth and Kristofer talk a little about the history of St. Patrick and other Catholic Cultural mainstays in our secular world (Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, Christmas…), as well as explain the reason behind Catholic Culture not being the same everywhere. They discuss how we can take advantage of this common ground and invite “Cultural Catholics” back to church, and remind us to remain devout ourselves.
Have a happy Saint Paddy’s Day, and make Cultural Catholicism work for you – and The Lord!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: Our Saints – Episode 18
Podcast Episode: Why Do Catholics Use Latin – Episode 62
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 138: Here Come The Scrutinies!What are the Scrutinies? In this season of Lent, we may have heard about them on the periphery, but do we know what they are? Beth and Kristofer explain this minor rite to help us better realize the beauty of the Church and prepare us for when they happen at Mass in the coming weeks!
Beth wonderfully covers the connection of the readings to the Scrutinies during Lent. They discuss the need for the whole Church to experience the Scrutinies.
Kristofer gives an emotional perspective on this rite that most of us have not experienced. Beth and Kristofer talk about how it is important us to realize the Scrutinies do indeed apply to all of us.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Introducing the Fruits of the Spirit
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: What Are Sacraments – 103
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works? – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: Being A Family of Prayer – Episode 121
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: The Immaculate Conception- Episode 125
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 137: How Do I Love My Enemies?How do I love my enemies? Beth and Kristofer answer this question as well as defining what an enemy is beyond, as Beth put it, “That nebulous group of people.” They discuss why we should love our enemies and then Beth and Kristofer explain how we love our enemies. Take this opportunity to learn about the importance of forgiveness, love, and humility when we think about our enemies.
The way to heaven is a narrow road, and we are to love as The Lord loves as part of traveling that road. But it is hard. It is supposed to be! In this discussion we get to hear Beth and Kristofer struggle with the idea. Winding their way from praying for enemies in Mass to deciding if they would push and enemy out of the way of a bus to dealing with terrorists. It is a struggle throughout this episode.
Kristofer gives us some insight into how he loves his enemies; he explains that his prayers have helped him avoid creating enemies after being really good at creating a lot of enemies for some twenty years. Beth and Kristofer Further offer some more bits on loving our enemies, but wait until the end of the episode to see more proof that these episodes are off the cuff!
REFERENCES:
Here is Mahatma Gandhi quote on Friendship in part 14 of this article.
Beth and Kristofer have difficulties explaining love in the case of Osama Bin Laden, who falls into Just War Doctrine.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Love Your Enemies (Sermon on the Mount Mass reparation)
TWMWU: Ash Wednesday: Prayer, Fasting, And Almsgiving
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 144
Post: What Is Love?
Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Love
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 136: Are You Saved?Are You Saved? Oftentimes our evangelical brothers and sisters ask this question, and we often ask it of ourselves, but do we know the answer? Beth and Kristofer answer this rather elusive question in this episode of On the Road to Perfection, and you may be surprised to learn the answer!
We have to accept salvation to get into heaven as Bath and Kristofer point out. They inform us on the inner workings of this simple question and where protestant evangelicals and Catholics often disagree on the answer. However, they do tell us that if someone ever asks the question “Are You Saved?” you can answer with the confident answer they give during this episode.
REFERENCES:
Beth and Kristofer cite a plethora of topics in this video:
Here’s Dr. David Anders on the Topic on his podcast Called to Communion around the 35 minute mark.
Also, our episodes on The Our Father, The Sacrament of Reconciliation, and The Sacrament of Baptism.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Jesus Saves: The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ
TWMWU: The LORD Has Revealed to the Nations His Saving Power
TWMWU: Third Sunday of Advent – He Comes to Save Us
Podcast Episode: What Are Good Works – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: Do Only Catholics Go To Heaven? – Episode 76
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 135: Spreading The Good NewsCan you evangelize? Let’s get into the practicals! Most of us are not street preachers and do not go up to strangers asking about their salvation. That does not mean we cannot spread the Good News – the Kerygma – in a way we are naturally called. We all have a natural way to evangelize, and this episode covers how to use that talent instead of repress it. Beth and Kristofer discussed evangelization last week and focused on self-evangelization and Catholic evangelization. Now, Beth and Kristofer discuss Spreading the Good News everywhere, from the workplace to grocery aisle, They offer their experiences and practices to help us all become better at spreading the Good News.
We are called to “Go out and Proclaim the Gospel of The Lord.” How do we accomplish this? By being authentically Catholic in all parts of our lives the Gospel spreads with ease. Beth and Kristofer remind us that by doing Catholic things, we are being Catholic. By remaining authentic we remind ourselves and others around us of what we stand for.
The little things we do in our lives will help others gravitate towards us and ask for prayers as long as we remain authentically spreading the Good News. As Saint Francis of Assisi (allegedly) said it. “Preach the Gospel. Use words if necessary.”
REFERENCES:
Here is our episode on Evangelization to learn more about spreading The Good News
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: He Gathers All Nations
TWMWU: We Are Called To Be Prophets
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things = Episode 69
Podcast Episode:The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Podcast Episode: It Works! – Episode 131
Page: HOO™ We Are
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 134: EvangelizationEvangelization sounds scary – like the vulture that was circling and following during the show! But do we know all that it entails? What is it? It’s not what you think, unless you want to think that’s what it is. In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Beth and Kristofer go in depth into the history of evangelization and why it is important today. They explain what it truly is and why we are all called to evangelize the world. And they also explain how to evangelize, and ways you may already be doing it – and how to kick it up a notch! And you meet Walter for the first time! Plus we have LOTS of episodes and TWMWUs we link to in the show notes for learning more, and a tease for the next two episodes just before we sign off.
Beth and Kristofer certainly didn’t understand the full extent of evangelization until purposeful study most folks may not take the time to learn, and they explain what, at its core, evangelization is – so you have one less thing to study! Many of us are already fulfilling the call to evangelize without realizing it, and when we do understand that, we will be more forthright in our evangelizing and not beat ourselves up for not doing something we don’t know we aren’t doing.
We have to remember that we must be who we are supposed to be and do what we are supposed to do to be an evangelist. And we will be evangelizing without trying when we become the person God has called us to be. And that empowers us to do more evangelization by actually trying to do more.
REFERENCES:
You can help evangelize your family by using This Week’s Mass Warm UP!
Perhaps you feel called to be a more outward evangelist. In that case, check out St. Paul Street Evangelization.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer: What and How – Episode 8
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer: Why – Episode 9
Podcast Episode: Grace – Episode 12
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
TWMWU: What Does Ephphatha Mean? Be Opened!
TWMWU: Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
TWMWU: Pentecost Sunday – Receive the Holy Spirit
TWMWU: Intercessory Prayer
And please do not forget to donate!
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 133: Lust And LoveWhat is the difference between lust and love? During this “season of Valentines” Beth and Kristofer cover this (often unknowingly) confusing and vitally important topic before we dive headlong into the pink and roses and hearts and whatnot. Beth and Kristofer share how to tell the difference between lust and love, and how to teach that to impressionable minds and hearts. And they do this in the context of Mortal Sin and Theological Virtue: Lust and Love, respectively. They also, right out of the gate, point to Nick’s seven-part series about Love as a great resource on our web site for this discussion, which is linked to in the show notes. Living in this world, but not of it, is difficult, and Beth and Kristofer offer us some pointers on how to do that, particularly in this day and age. And, no, there is no inappropriate or “parental discretion advised” content in this episode. But they do get attacked by a tree!
Beth and Kristofer remind us that love without agape is lust. They cover the dangers of lust and how the Evil One can lead us down the road of lust without us even realizing it, and it is important to stay vigilant to avoid the folly of lust. We have to also keep in mind, as Beth and Kristofer say, that after marriage we don’t suddenly lose lust, and that it is important to stay even more watchful of the Devil’s schemes.
They further discuss the beauty and wholeness of Love and how, in proper perspective, it fulfills the things we often pursue in lust. Love, being a verb (as Kristofer likes to say), is an action, while lust is a feeling. That basic tenet helps to focus our understanding on the difference between the two, and helps to teach that difference to others. Beth and Kristofer share some of the saints’ takes on the topic, and remind us of Pope Saint John Paul II’s Theology of the Body message where he famously reiterates that “Love is willing the good of the other.”
And, to wrap up, Kristofer and Beth offer some thoughts and encouragement for those in relationships who need help.
REFERENCES:
Nick’s series on Love. Probably the most underrated article on this topic.
What is Love?
Agape – Sacrificial Love
Eros – Sexual Romantic Love
Eros – Sexual Romantic Love in the Single Life
Storge and Philia – Love of Family and Friends
What Love Is
What is Love? Tools and Resources
Also, check out chastity.com for more in-depth ways to protect yourself from lust.
Hotlines:
National Domestic Abuse Hotline: 800-799-7233
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
Also, please look for Crisis Pregnancy Centers near you if you or a loved one needs support. In many communities in the United States, dialing 211 will connect you with help.
Most areas have shelters for women escaping domestic abuse where women and their children can stay anonymously, as well. Calling 911 is always an option to help you get and stay safe, with or without law enforcement involvement.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: Our Saints – Episode 18
Podcast Episode: Caring For Our Earthly Home – Episode 95
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Video: Fruits of the Spirit: Love
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 132: Solidarity With The ChurchAfter going over their Frustrations With The Church in an earlier episode, Beth and Kristofer now explain Solidarity With The Church. What exactly does that mean? How can we know if we are in solidarity with the Church? Beth and Kristofer dive into the relationship we should have with the Church and by extension our relationship to and with Jesus. Unity with the Magisterium is important and Job One at Holy Owned and Operated and in the Cowles Family. So how do we reconcile those frustrations with solidarity? It’s all about Family… And you get to hear our new washing machine and dryer. As a bonus, you get to hear our new washing machine and dryer, and Kristofer sings a thirty-year-old commercial for a local appliance store. Fun stuff!
Beth and Kristofer explain that there is nothing wrong with disagreeing with the Church and that we should be willing to disagree and to listen to those who have frustrations. As in any family, we will have disagreements, but we have righteous ways of airing our grievances and concerns, well-outlined by Jesus in the Gospel. When we do have problems, we must maintain solidarity with the Church and understand that the Magisterium is the authority of the Church Militant. Beth and Kristofer also point out that we must be balanced in our levying our grievances and praises on the Church and not be blind to the good or the bad.
Kristofer gives some of his conversion story, noting that a significant part of his coming to the Church was the Church’s openness to disagreement and even encouragement of it, noting that St. Paul tells us that we cannot discover the Truth if we do not have those who disagree with us. Kristofer further describes our duty to bring our disagreements to the Magisterium!
It is always important to remember that we, as baptized Christians and particularly those of us who are confirmed Catholics, believe that the Church is the Bride of Christ and by extension the Mother of the children of God. No child agrees with every decision of their mother, but they come to learn the wisdom of those beliefs and decisions, and challenge their parents on things they disagree and don’t understand. But we do not throw the baby out with the bath water – we seek to understand and find the Truth. And we do that always in solidarity!
REFERENCES:
Listen to our podcast episode on Marriage Preparation.
Also, See the episode on The Magisterium.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: Faith- Episode 50
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: The Immaculate Conception- Episode 125
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 131: It Works!With a great sigh of relief and near shouts of joy, we share a wonderful discovery: What we have been practicing for decades, talking about in the last 130 episodes, and teaching for years actually works for others, too! This discovery – and edification – comes after spending a recent weekend with two listeners (and HOO supporters), and their children. Encountering and experiencing Betty and Archie’s Catholic faith in action and infused in their parenting, daily living, and lifestyle, The Boyz and we saw it in full effect in a family and situation very different from ours. But the universality of the Catholic faith, honestly and purposefully practiced – still works! It produces the same results that we have worked hard for in our family, applied to a vastly different situation. Nonetheless…
It works!
We talk about our weekend with Betty and Archie and their kids, giving concrete and fun examples of how these two young parents make it work. Whether it is electronic devices, meals, sports, Mass, or chores and helping around the house, including helping siblings, or discipline, this Family has a different life but a common grounding in the Church Jesus gave us all. Observing it and experiencing it made a huge impression on us, and we hope it makes a big one on you, too!
Lots of listeners and folks who see us and our family speaking or just in the daily walk of life express some form of kudos and congratulations for the end result they see, and in the next breath say something like, “Well, we’re different; we couldn’t do that,” or, “That would never work for us,” or, “It’s too late for us,” etc. This week, we talk about experiencing firsthand how that simply is not true, and we have the data to prove it!
It is never too late to start. It is never too late to listen to these episodes with an attitude of “I can do that,” instead of “That’s nice for them.” It’s never too late to ask for help from us and others – including Betty and Archie! We are all On the Road to Perfection, and need to help each other along. We offer to help, again, in this episode.
Please contact us if you would like that help!
REFERENCES:
This is the Church we went to for Mass: St. Mary of the Expectation. We had not heard that title for Mary before. They had a beautiful statue of Mary, pregnant. What a wonderful thing to contemplate. We talk a bit about the Church and our Mass experience, briefly, again highlighting our differences in preferences and yet, not surprisingly – it works!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
Page: HOO™ We Are
Article: We Are Here To Help
TWMWU: The Lord Worked With Them
Podcast Episode: What are Good Works? – Episode 114
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer- What and How – episode 8
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer -Why – Episode 9
Podcast Episode: Spiritual Works of Mercy – episode 93
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 130: Frustrations With The ChurchStarting with the God-given right we have as outlined in Canon Law, in this delicate topic, Beth and Kristofer discuss their frustrations with the Church, from the misuse of liturgy to the administration of the Church. But this is not a gripe session on this rainy and windy day; they explain the canon law, historical, pastoral and liturgical context behind their beefs and want to help us be more aware of what might be going on at our own parish. Kristofer breaks down what is the source of the failures of the Church Militant, while Beth goes into detail on who should be administrating the parish itself. It was a windy day; we are solving the problems it creates in our audio quality.
Please keep in mind that, while these are frustrations Beth and Kristofer have with the Church Militant as it exists right now, they do believe in the authority of the Magisterium and that the Pope is the “first among equals.” This is by no means a Protestation! They simply point out what needs to be taken care of that the Church has forgotten or ignored for decades or more.
REFERENCES:
Check out our episode on The Magisterium if you need a quick reminder on where the Church gets its authority.
Listen to our episode, It’s The Little Things, to see how getting stung by bees is what is going to get us, not being bitten by an elephant; which is pertinent to the discussion here.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: What Does Ephphatha Mean? Be Opened!
TWMWU: Pentecost Sunday – Receive the Holy Spirit
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: Why Does the Catholic Church Have Saints – Episode 67
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: What are Sacraments – Episode 103
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: The Immaculate Conception – Episode 125
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 129: Relying On The Holy FamilyIn the day-to-day struggles of raising a family, let alone a holy family, and living in a sinful world, we have to Rely On The Holy Family for support and guidance. But how often do we think of Jesus, Joseph, and Mary together as the basic unit of society – a family? Beth and Kristofer share insights into how they relate with and rely on the Holy Family and what the importance of The Holy Family is in our lives raising children and taking care of a family. Kristofer opens up and shares a lot about his relationship with Joseph, which will be useful for Husbands and Dads.
Relying On The Holy Family is very important to raising a family. As we strive for perfection as individuals, we also strive for perfection as a family. And who better to turn to than the perfect family of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph? Beth and Kristofer expound upon their relationship with the Holy Family and what fruits it has bared in their lives and the lives of their children and family as a whole, and invite us to do the same!
Whether you are closer to Jesus, Mary, or Joseph, it is important to think about how they would react to situations you have, internally and externally. We are On The Road To Perfection, and emulating on and relying on The Holy Family is truly an important part of striving for perfection!
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: What Does Ephphatha Mean? Be Opened!
TWMWU: Pentecost Sunday – Receive the Holy Spirit
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer: What and How – Episode 8
Podcast Episode: Family Prayer: Why – Episode 9
Podcast Episode: Saints – Episode 16
Podcast Episode: It’s All In The Little Things – Episode 69
Podcast Episode: Being a Family of Prayer – Episode 121
Podcast Episode: The Sacred Role of Women in the Church – Episode 124
Podcast Episode: Giving Back – Episode 127
Browse 100s of Family-focused Catholic Resources on Holy Owned and Operated!
On The Road To PerfectionEpisode 128: Taking Kids to Mass – Age 7 and AboveHow do we take kids to Mass after they have achieved the Age of Reason; after they’ve received First Communion? Beth and Kristofer talk about how to help our newly enlightened children better understand the Mass. They talk about their own trials and errors and explain the need and importance of taking these children to Mass. This episode fits with the episodes from early in our production that addressed younger children and teenagers at Mass, and how to approach those situations. Sorry we left out the middle child for so long!
While not all of us have seven year-olds and older, we all know people who do, and it is important as a community to help those families get their kids to Mass and help the while they are at Mass.
Explaining the Mass to kids of this age is important, and a part of the Mass experience; as well as getting them involved in ministry.
Many Altar Corps start accepting kids in third or fourth grade. Most ministries open up to kids by the time they get confirmed and involvement in ministry should help them grow closer to Jesus. Taking young kids to mass is important to preparing them for their future in the Church and helps keep them involved the future of the Church.
REFERENCES:
Listen to our episode on taking younger kids to Mass. as well as getting teenagers to go to Mass.
Also, check out our This Week Mass Warm Up. It helps you better understand for yourself and explain the Mass and liturgy to others, including these kids. Taking young kids to mass and explaining it to them is one of the most important things you can do as a parent or parish community member.
Some items on our site that will help in understanding this topic:
TWMWU: Divine Mercy Sunday – Witness and Bear Fruit
Podcast Episode: Raising Kids In These Times – Episode 122
Podcast Episode:Giving Back – Episode 127
Page: Elementary Faith Formation
Article: We Are Here to Help
The season of giving is here. And where there is giving, there is getting, so how do we Give Back?Beth and Kristofer reflect on this topic in both a material and spiritual sense in this episode right before The Most Wonderful Time of the Year!They discuss the importance of humility and gratitude during this season and offer insights into how you can have a Happy Christmas!
What are spiritual readings? What is spiritual reading? Beth and Kristofer discuss the purpose and reason why we should read spiritual books. They talk about their experiences with spiritual reading, how it has affected them, and why it is important for all of us to read spiritual books.And they offer some suggestions on what to read.
What is the Immaculate Conception? Or, more specifically, who is the Immaculate Conception? In this podcast Beth and Kristofer explain this dogma and correct any misunderstandings about this Holy Day of Obligation. They detail the reasoning and understanding behind The Immaculate Conception, as well as why it really matters to understand it and how it points to God's great grace! Also, enjoy some fun decision making that usually goes on before the podcast starts!
The sacred role of women in the Church goes back to the time before Jesus came to Earth - way before! In this episode, we talk about that - after a short disclaimer from my lovely bride - and how there is an important significance to women being in the Church and the role they play in salvation history. We claim that the first Catholic was Mary (a woman, BTW!), and share who "the first Apostle" was, as well as "the Apostle to the Apostles" - both women! But it is way more than a title, and these women were not ordained by Jesus as were the Twelve - which is significant, and a true blessing for women and the Church! And, yes, we answer THAT question, along with the question of why women are integral to the survival and thriving of the Church. And I get a little snippy about men and how they handle their responsibilities in the Church.But what's new? -Kristofer
One man's vulgarity is another man's lyric.
So says the Supreme Court of the United States, and, coming from that secular view, I begin with the answer that, "Yes, some music is bad."
But there's a BIG but - and we're not talking Bobby Jimmy and the Crickets!
Though this topic is right up my alley, DJ Duck doesn't go too far down that road, but Beth and I use that as a springboard to talk about why some music is bad, while that same music is good.
Huh?
While some music may not be art in the ear of the beholder, where does music - and lyrics - lead us? -Kristofer
Raising Kids In These Times is HARD!
How do we do it?
How do we raise our children to be in this word but not of it?
What is the secret?
Is there a formula, a road map, a sequence of strategies and tactics?
In this episode we continue our discussion inadvertently begun a couple of weeks ago, focusing on kids and what they and we have to deal with, and how to handle it.
How different is it from the past?
And, yes, there is a formula, which we gladly share!
In the past, Beth and Kristofer have talked about how to do family prayer.
In this episode, they discuss how to be a family of prayer.
They answer how long it takes to "get there" and share some of what it takes, without getting into tactics or strategies or specific practices.
Being a family of prayer is a way of life, not a set of check boxes!
With that in mind, they discuss why it is important to be closer to God and our family, what it means to be a harmonious family, and how to be it.
What is Moral Relativism?
What is wrong with it? How do I counteract it?
In this Episode, Beth and Kristofer discuss Moral Relativism and what we can do to fight it and overcome it, despite the Devil's attempts to stop them from sharing the secrets!
(You'll have to listen to the first part at least to hear the story!)
All Souls Day is an often overlooked day of remembrance.
Beth and Kristofer explain why the Church celebrates the lives of all the Souls not yet in Heaven.
They touch on Purgatory and the path to Heaven.
They talk about why we should pray for our deceased loved ones and even those souls who nobody prays for.
Also, Beth and Kristofer answer why it is an important day to us as Catholics., why we should remember and celebrate it, and why we pray for the souls in Purgatory.
All Saints Day is the day we celebrate the lives of all of the Saints, and the gift they are to us.
But why?
What is so important about having a generic day to celebrate people we don't know about?
Don't we already have a day for the "famous" saints?
Beth and Kristofer explain why Catholics make it a point to celebrate the lives of the Holy Men and Women in Heaven.
Is Halloween the Devil's Holiday?
Is it bad to go trick-or-treating?
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Beth and Kristofer discuss "The Perils of Halloween" and what it is as both a secular "holiday" and a Catholic celebration of the Holy Saints.
They answer all of our questions about Halloween, and what we can do and what we shouldn't do.
What is a Mystery, in the Catholic sense?
We all know the spray-painted, flower-laden, Shaggy-and-Scooby-style whodunit mystery.
But what is a Catholic Mystery?
Beth and Kristofer unmask the meaning behind the word "mystery" and the different Mysteries of the Catholic Faith in this lively episode of On the Road to Perfection!
Angels we have heard on high! Or at least heard of from on high.
This episode includes an interruption by the demons from the start - so much so we had to re-record!
Calling out Lucifer, we jump right into giving the etymology of the word "angel," defining their perfection in true HOO manner.
We talk about the type of beings angels are as well as the type of doing that they do.
We discuss their wings, their appearance in scripture, and their history in art.
We even talk about how they are revealed to us, and answer the question about naming your Guardian Angel.
If you ever wondered how they interact with the demons, Kristofer describes it in a way his party DJ experience can relate to. Need a bouncer?
Oh, and Beth throws a music reference at Kristofer that he doesn't get right away!
There is a gnawing question for Catholics and a point of contention Protestants have with us concerning good works. S
o, having been asked "What Are Good Works?" by our listener, former Protestant Debra, Beth and I took to the streets to explore the question, the reasoning behind the answer, and that nagging idea about whether or not good works are necessary for our salvation.
Beth points out shortly after we began walking that I did a good work inadvertently - woohoo! - and we finish with pointing out that our brothers and sisters in Christ are actually known for their good works.
And, of course, I have to throw some Monty Python into the mix. - Kristofer
The Sacrament of Holy Matrimony, Marriage, Nuptials, and the ever-endearing "mawwiage" from The Princess Bride...
However we refer to it, do we truly understand it?
This Sacrament is misunderstood, taken for granted, and completely ignored by many people, but Beth and Kristofer stand up for this extremely important Sacrament.
They explain the importance of it, why we should cherish it, and who needs to be involved in the actual Rite.
And keep an ear out for Beth's dig at Kristofer - it's a funny moment that inadvertently proves the point...Sparky!
Many of us have never seen a Mass of Ordination or the Sacrament of Holy Orders administered.
Those of us who have may not understand exactly what is going on.
Having been involved in several, Beth and Kristofer go into full detail about: - what happens at the Mass and Rite; - what this type of Sacrament is called; - what graces the men who receive the Sacrament are given;
And they help us better appreciate the men who receive it.
Of course, there's that question we all have...
The Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is seldom received by us and perhaps the least known of all the Sacraments.
Nevertheless, it is important to our understanding of Faith, Hope, and Love.
Beth and Kristofer, who have both received this Sacrament, explain all the important details and why this Sacrament is truly important.
They answer why we need it, who can and how we can receive it, and what it does to us.
Yes, miracles happen!
Reconciliation is a Sacrament of Healing and is most commonly called "Confession.'
But what does that mean and what does it heal?
Beth and Kristofer answer this question along with who can receive and give absolution of sins, when absolution of sin can be withheld, and why it is important to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
And, of course, how to go to Confession.
Beth and Kristofer jump into "the source and summit of our faith":
The Sacrament of The Eucharist.
While there is another episode from two years ago about the Eucharist, and they talk about it regularly, this episode answers the questions about the Real Presence - it ACTUALLY IS the BODY and BLOOD of Jesus Christ!
This is where you find out how and why.
The Eucharist is also the Soul and Divinity of Jesus, and Kristofer just thought the gnawing on flesh and blood has a cool air about it and should be capitalized!
He is also fond of saying, "Do you believe in Miracles?!" when it comes to The Eucharist.
Beth and Kristofer jump head-on into perhaps the most misunderstood, misinterpreted, and misrepresented Sacrament of them all:
Confirmation.
They cover so many answers that it is difficult to list all of the questions here.
Rest assured, your question is probably answered, because just about everybody has the same ones.
And Beth jumps right in by befuddling Kristofer right at the beginning!
Baptism is the First Sacrament.
Without being baptized, we cannot receive any other Sacraments.
But why?
Beth and Kristofer explain what baptism is, how baptism came to be, how we are to baptize, and who can baptize.
God The Holy Spirit is the "last" person of the Holy Trinity, but is by no means the least!
But many of us don't actually know who He is, what He does for us, and why He's hard to understand.
After Kristofer gives the Holy Spirit a most-likely politically incorrect nickname, Beth reels hm in as they discuss the very important, if enigmatic, Holy Spirit.
God the Son is perhaps the most relatable Person of the Holy Trinity.
Both fully human and fully God, He is the Paragon of Virtue.
Beth and Kristofer expound upon the Second Person of the Trinity in this episode of On the Road to Perfection.
At least Beth does. Kristofer tries his best to sound like he knows something.
God The Father is one of three very important persons in our faith. But Who is He?
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mom and Dad explore Him and who He is as a person of the Trinity.
Don't worry!
As always, they keep it simple and down to earth in this episode!
What are Sacraments?
Why do we have them?
Where did they come from?
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Beth and Kristofer take a moment to talk about these seven very important parts of the Catholic Faith.
This episode is a direct answer to the questions and concerns "Betty", a listener, asked Beth and Kristofer to address.
Being Catholic is not easy, and in the growing moral relativism we see around us, it feels harder than ever.
Pride month is a time when we feel uncomfortable, oftentimes oppressed, and even assaulted - and it extends throughout the year.
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Beth and Kristofer continue the discussion from Part 1, this time focusing on "pride" in the context of the LGBTQ+ movement.
They also provide specific ways to navigate this sometimes treacherous path for ourselves and our families.
Part 2 of 2.
Living in the modern world can be difficult and often uncomfortable as an authentic, practical Catholic.
It's supposed to be.
As we experience an increase in the LGBTQ+ Pride movement, how do we navigate these choppy waters where human dignity and pride seem to collide?
In this first part of this double episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mom and Dad address a question from Betty, a listener, discussing this difficult subject with their trademarked grace and kindness to help us all better voyage the seemingly crumbling world around us.
Happy 100th episode!
To celebrate this important number in our podcast, Mom and Dad decided to talk about important numbers in our Catholic faith.
Learn the meaning behind the numbers like three, twelve, and forty on this fast-paced, lightning round, monumental episode of On the Road to Perfection.
The Holy Trinity - God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit - is one of the most puzzling mysteries of our faith.
Three persons in one God.
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mom and Dad explore the beauty and theology behind the Mystery of the Holy Trinity.
And Dad gives a good reason for a cough button.
The Hail Mary is perhaps one of the easiest prayers to memorize.
Children learn it before they go to school.
It is prayed fifty-three times during the rosary, but do we know what we are praying?
Do we understand the words we are saying?
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mom and Dad explore this simple but powerful prayer.
And Dad puts his foot down.
What is subsidiarity?
Mom and Dad break this large word down into what exactly it means in this episode on another Catholic teaching on social justice.
Mom and Dad explore ways you can help people and their own experiences with subsidiarity.
The Ascension is one of the important days of the liturgical year, but why is it important? What exactly is it?
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mom and Dad talk about why the Ascension means so much to the Church.
One of the seven social teachings of the Catholic Church, caring for our earthly home is intimately connected to every part of our life.
After quoting an 80s video game and Monty Python, Beth and Kristofer dive into this topic with Kristofer making sure everyone knows he is not a tree hugger.
Then they go on identifying birds and trees as they walk by. Well, the topic is what the topic is - and they do answer the question we all have about that environment issue.
Yeah, that one.
What is the difference between Religious Education, Faith Formation, Catechism Class, and CCD?
On the surface, it can appear that they are one and the same;, but there are, in fact, many important differences,
Mom and Dad answer the question and talk about what each of these are and entail - and they have a lot of experience with each of them!
In last week’s episode, Mom and Dad covered the Corporal Works of Mercy.
In this episode, they talk about the Spiritual Works of Mercy: instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, admonish the sinners, bear patiently those who wrong us, forgive offenses, comfort the sorrowful, and pray for the living and the dead.
And they tell us how to do that in our busy lives.
The seven Corporal works of Mercy - feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, visit the imprisoned, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, and bury the dead - are very important parts of outwardly showing our Christian love to the world.
But how do we do them right?
Who are "the least of these?"
In this episode, Mom and Dad answer these questions and explain what the Corporal Works of Mercy are.
And then sum it up with three words that are easy to remember.
Mom and Dad talk about the three days before Easter, the Triduum, and their importance in our faith.
What happens on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday?
Why do certain things happen on these days that don’t happen at any other time of the year?
This podcast will help you learn just what we do during the Triduum.
Palm Sunday is an important day in the liturgical year, but what is it?
Mom and Dad explain the historical context for Palm Sunday; they explain why the Pharisees and the high priests of Jerusalem got mad at Jesus.
They tell us why the people would go from laying palm branches before Jesus to screaming "Crucify him! Crucify him!" over the course of a mere 5 days.
And they share how we can all better prepare for Easter by making this a truly Holy Week.
Jesus tells parables, stumping the great thinkers of Judea, but wait!
They finally have a real-life chance to stump Him by bringing forth the woman caught in adultery.
His answer is profound, just, merciful, and totally his style.
Jesus' answer to stoning the woman is something that we all need to think about, the answer written in the sand is profound, and an answer that follows the Golden Rule.
The Parable of the Prodigal Son is perhaps the most famous of Jesus’ teachings, and Mama and Daddy take a different look at it this time.
What is the meaning of this Parable? What can we learn from it? And what is the sin of the older brother?
As Mom says, we commit this sin of ingratitude and pride.
We, as baptized Christians, are the older brother in this lesson.
How should we respond to the Prodigal Son’s Homecoming?
God appearing to Moses in the Burning Bush is a wonderful example of him calling us.
In this episode, Mama and Daddy explore this, with a lot of soul-searching.
Moses, who is one of the most detailed figures in the Bible, is being called by a burning bush to lead God's people out of slavery and into the Promised Land of milk and honey.
This is all sorts of weird!
If we were approached by God while He was in the form of a Burning Bush, what would we do?
Well guess what? God is not just calling Moses.
Who are we to lead others out of slavery to sin - or even ourselves?
The Transfiguration of Jesus is a fascinating event that sometimes gets lost in Peter's response to it.
But what a wonderfully perfect response!
What does this event reveal to us, and about us?
And why was it kept secret from all of the other Apostles?
In this episode discussing the Gospel reading in this coming Sunday's Mass, we explore things we do not typically hear in a homily, but experience regularly.
But should we share those experiences? That's not entirely up to us...
Jesus In The Desert is what we talk about as we charge into Lent.
It happens to be the topic of the Gospel Reading this weekend coming up, too.
What does Jesus' 40 days in the desert mean to us, to you?
It's a great question and a different answer for everybody - but a singular theme each of us can relate to.
Welcome to Lent!
Almsgiving during Lent is our third and final Lenten topic as we prepare for the season.
Almsgiving is another pillar of Lent.
It's different from Almsgiving during the rest of the year; different than our routine, daily Almsgiving.
We talk about how to do Almsgiving during Lent, and what it's meaning, purpose, and origin is.
Prayer during Lent is our second Lenten topic as we prepare for the season.
Prayer is another pillar of Lent. It's different than prayer during the rest of the year; different than our routine, daily prayer.
We talk about how to do prayer during Lent, and what it's meaning, purpose, and origin is.
Fasting during Lent is often not considered until someone asks us what we are giving up.
Then, suddenly, without having thought of it prior, we say something like, "Chocolate" or "My favorite TV show."
In this episode presented a month before having to start fasting, we explore what it all means, to help make the discernment of what to give up more focused and meaningful.
And Beth gives a great prayer inspired by the Holy Spirit to help you out. So inspired, we drop the mic.
What is Lent?
Lent is a liturgical season of fasting, prayer, almsgiving, preparation, and enlightenment.
Okay - what does that mean?
Why do we celebrate and observe it?
How do we do all that?
So many questions - and we give an overview during these short twenty minutes, as an introduction to the next three weeks as we prepare for Lent.
The Gift of Creation is something we might take for granted or not comprehend completely.
Certainly, the latter!
Maybe you think that Pope Francis a couple of years ago came and turned everything upside down with his encyclical about our care of the environment and world around us, Laudato si'.
What does it mean to be caretakers with dominion?
Well, we talk about that, with a good story of dead chickens and a lot of funny confusion - since this was not the topic we had decided to talk about before pressing record...
More fun and laughs!
The Mass dismissal is perhaps the most important part of the Mass after the source and summit, the Eucharist.
It calls us to action, drives us to purpose, and requires of us dedication.
Are we up to that task?
Beth and Kristofer reveal their favorite dismissal - and, more entertaining, their least favorite. As they muddle along as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum, they invite you to contemplate the dismissal as more than just an invitation to go to the donut shop!
They also give a tutorial on movie end credits, and an homage to Ferris Buehler...
This was a fun episode to do, and is a funny one to listen to!
What's in a word?
Glory is one of those words that the English language has done a disservice to. It's like "snow" compared to indigenous people in polar regions, or "love" translated from the Greek in the English Bible.
In this episode dedicated to Mary Henriquez, Beth and Kristofer discuss the idea of glory, and the many facets of it, and how it is used for its many different meanings.
Beth shares some history and meanings of words we use that are a part of the meaning of glory, so Kristofer learns a little Hebrew and Greek, despite his uncanny ability to get distracted by everything.
And they do it all in less than 22 minutes!
As a bonus, Kristofer keeps the song references to only those that have "glory" in them. Apparently, there are a lot.
Kerygma?
Most likely this is a term you have not heard. But it is the thread that encapsulates our entire faith. It is what our entire existence and salvation relies upon.
In this episode, we share the Kerygma, define it, and invite you to join us in it. The only gain you get is Heaven.
Kerygma is the biggest secret, but also the most obvious thing...
Beth and Kristofer conflict with each other in this episode. Beth's knowledge and wisdom butts up against Kristofer's ignorance, and the result is a classic pursuit of Perfection!
Who goes to Heaven?
Some say only Catholics. Some say Catholics do not. Some say all sorts of things.
What does the Catholic Church say?
In this episode that we did while driving back from Kristofer's spiritual director, we tackle a question brought up by a friend and actually addressed by the Church.
We go Summa on you, Vatican II on you, and all that in 20 minutes, when we could have answered it in less than a second.
Which we do about six minutes in.
So how do we know we are or have discerned God's Will?
In this episode, Kristofer gives one of many concrete examples while he and Beth challenge us to see the miraculous as merely God's Will that we should expect.
Beth gives great counsel on seeking God's Will while Kristofer accidentally trips over some doctrine, thinking he came up with something The Church might have missed.
We CAN know God's Will.
Here's how...
The Lord's will and how we know it is His will for us and how we can discern his will and what that means, are, as Beth puts it, the topic of this episode.
That's a lot, and though we go deep we barely scratch the surface.
Or pound nails, as Kristofer's inadvertent carpentry analogy gets a lot of air-time and seems to work the further we get into it.
Discerning what God wants us to do is simple.
But difficult.
This is a topic worthy of more than one episode, so this is part one.
What is my role as a lay person in the Church?
As laity we need to recognize how crucial we are to the Church.
This important discussion about the family of The Church - you and we who, without us, there is no Church - edifies all of us little people, and explores what we can and should do as members of the largest family in the history of the universe.
A little Mr. Rogers and some Bobby McFerrin to accompany us on this beautiful day in our neighborhood, Kristofer gets a bit philosophical at the risk of causing you to stop listening, and Beth makes some theological points in layman's terms.
Thanks for joining us, neighbor!
What is The Incarnation?
More to the point, how do we approach it in our daily lives, particularly as we prepare The Way of The Lord during Advent?
In this fast-paced walk and talk, we cover this deep subject with good humor and solid exploration, without going into the theology too much.
It's a fun and lighthearted twenty minutes while we honor and revere the dangerous significance of this normalizing event of Jesus taking on skin and bones.
What do we do about Family interactions during the holidays?
In perhaps our most fun episode to date in terms of just rolling with it, Beth tries to make a point while Kristofer goes off into la la land.
Music, movie, cartoon, disco, philosophy, sitcoms and saint references seem to come easily when one person comes from a solid family of origin and another comes from the family that put fun into dysfunctional.
But, seriously, this is good stuff with some actual pointers. And even Larry gets into it...
LOTS of show notes with timestamps here, too.
How is Advent celebrated?
Celebrating Advent is sometimes overlooked in anticipation of Christmas, but for a Catholic, Advent is that anticipation as we begin a new Liturgical Year.
In this episode we discuss the many ways our family does - and yours can - celebrate Advent, and not just with an Advent Calendar.
There are tons of ways to make it a celebration every day for all four weeks! This is how we do it...and we provide the resources for you to do it, too!
What makes our Catholic Faith work in our daily lives? With concrete examples and references from Monty Python to Frank Zappa, Kristofer and Beth explain how to eat an elephant - and pave the road to perfection with little cobblestones in our every waking moment. One of us is really good at this. The other is not - but there is still Hope for him!
What is Life? With some help from The Beatles, Deep Thought, Mikey, Topol and Fiddler on the Roof, we explore the Catholic perspective on Life, the Universe, and Everything. Well, at least as much as we can in 20 minutes!
Why do Catholics have saints? What are the Saints for, why do we have All Saints Day? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy answer all those questions with their usual brevity and wit.
Why Does The Catholic Church Not Believe In Cremation? Beth and Kristofer do not accept the premise.
Does the Church discourage cremation? Sure.
But it also accepts the occasional necessity of cremation, and when chosen prudently it is not a sin.
But when done for the wrong reasons, it is a grave sin. No pun intended!
Listen to understand the nuances of the Church's teaching on this sensitive and often gut-wrenching topic.
Why do Catholics believe in transubstantiation? "Mostly because it's real," is what Kristofer says. Beth has a more theological and very understandable answer, especially if you have gray hairs!
Why do Catholics have a pope? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about this interesting topic with all their usual wit and humor!
What is the big fuss over infant baptism? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy explore the need for infant baptism.
Why do Catholics use Latin? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss what the purpose of using Latin. From it being a dead language to its historical roots, Mama and Daddy answer this question with plenty of humor!
Why do Catholics pray to Mary? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss this confusing topic that many Catholics and Protestants alike don't fully understand.
Why do Catholics use Beeswax Candles? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy answer this question and give a stunning bit of symbolism that is easily overlooked with good humor.
Why do Catholics use unleavened bread? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss this interesting topic that will help make this key part of the mass make sense.
Why do Catholics use incense? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy answer this question going back to the roots of Christianity and the theological background for the use of incense.
In this episode of On the Road Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about their Morning Prayer routines. What they do, how they help, and when they do them. Learn how saying "Good Morning Lord" will help you have a better day!
What is the Mass? How should I dress? How do I prepare? In this Episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss the most important gathering Catholics make, the Holy Mass.
What is the Mass? How should I dress? How do I prepare? In this Episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss the most important gathering Catholics make, the Holy Mass.
What is the Eucharist? Why is it "the source and summit of our faith?" Is it cannibalism to receive the Eucharist? Why do Catholics believe Jesus is in that small unleavened wafer? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, mama and Daddy explore all the mysteries of the Eucharist.
How do we get teens to go to mass? How do we keep them from becoming one of the staggering number of "Lost Sheep?" Why don't they do what we tell them to do? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy answer these questions and more based on personal experience and their own trial and error. They will not let you down!
Death is a difficult topic. We avoid it out of discomfort. But Mama and Daddy talk about it with hope, grace, and tenderness. They talk about our final judgement, purgatory, heaven, our hope for the future, and a few helps for when we learn of the passing of a loved one. Dedicated to: David Cooper (1973-2021)
Its been a year since the first episode of On the Road to Perfection! Mama and Daddy talk about the up and coming things for our ministry in this episode. Learn about more of our content and get a sneak peak at what the next year has in store from Holy Owned and Operated!
What is faith? Is it blind trust? Or belief in something we can only see the outline of? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about and explain the gift of Faith
The Sign of the Cross is a short prayer, but there is some mystery surrounding it.
Should I sign from right to left? Should I sign at the chest, or the belly? If I use my left hand, am I going to Hell?
Is it just a "Catholic" prayer or can any Christian pray and do it?
Mama and Daddy answer these questions and more in this episode of On the Road to Perfection!
Mama and Daddy talk about vaccines, testing God, and other Bits 'n' Pieces. They offer wisdom, anecdotes, and little, well, Bits 'n' Pieces of other things! This is an off-the-cuff casual conversation about lots of things happening right now.
What is the Magisterium? What does they do? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy answer these questions alongside others like what if a bishop makes a mistake? Who is right and who is wrong on matters of faith? Mama and Daddy cover this topic with all their usual grace and humor!
Most Catholic's know the LORD's prayer by heart, but do we know in our heart what it means? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy explain the Our Father in a line-by-line theological explanation. This episode will help you more perfectly pray this perfect prayer!
What is Pentecost? Why do we celebrate it? In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about this multi-faceted feast of the Church. It is the Church's birthday, but it's also the confirmation day of the Apostles. Mama and Daddy will give you a better understanding of Pentecost!
Being Catholic is Fun? What? But Catholics can't have fun, right? Wrong! Being Catholic IS fun as Mama and Daddy talk about in this episode of On the Road to Perfection. They talk about funny fun things and parties that all Catholics get to enjoy, from helping out the neighbor to going to Mass, and, um...other stuff, Mama and Daddy won't help put the fun back into Catholicism - they help you see that it is already there!
How are we supposed to be a disciple? A lot of us are confused on how to accomplish discipleship. In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about how to follow Jesus, what resources we can use, and why being disciples of Christ can be so difficult. After listening to this podcast, discipleship will be a lot easier!
Why should we pay for the crimes of others? Is that fair? If it isn't, what's the deal with Original Sin? In this Episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy explore this oft evaded question and subject. Dad takes understanding Original Sin to a whole new level of basic, which should stand ground when explaining it to kids. It is a difficult subject, no doubt, but this podcast will leave you with a simple and easy explanation that will stand for curious children and surly teenagers - ahem!
People we know get divorced all the time, but why? Most likely, it comes down to whether they should have been married in the first place. How do you find out? You prepare for marriage purposefully. In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy discuss this crucial part in discerning a very difficult but rewarding vocation. Whether you have been married for five years, fifty years, just engaged, or are never getting married, this episode is both enriching and entertaining. Mama and Daddy have been on both ends of marriage preparation, and are glad to share their wisdom on this thing that leads to happier, healthier, and truer marriages!
Happy Easter! Is Easter really 50 days long? Why?
In this episode of On The Road To Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about the Easter season, what we do during the Easter season, why Catholics celebrate it for so long, and how we celebrate it. Join Mama and Daddy in as they talk about this wonderful time of the year!
Join Mama and Daddy in this episode of On the Road to Perfection as they travel through Kentucky and talk about the virtue of humility. This virtue may be the hardest one to master. But Mama and Daddy, two humble people (even if Dad says so himself), offer great incite into how to accomplish humility; a virtue that we all struggle with daily.
Mama needs a retreat! So instead of taking one, she and Daddy talked about them! In this episode of On the Road to Perfection they tell us what a retreat is, why we take retreats, and what they enjoy doing on retreats. This podcast will give you every reason to take a couple days off of work and go on a refreshing and rejuvenating retreat!
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about self-control. The last, but not least, of the Fruits of the Spirit listed by Paul in his letter to the Galatians. Self-control is a difficult fruit to bear; but when we do, there is a great reward. Join Mama and Daddy and learn some tips and clues on how to increase Self-control!
The million dollar question: Is Joe Biden Catholic? Mama and Daddy do not take a political stand in this episode (which is a big step for Daddy!), but they instead clear up what an ex-catholic really is; what "judge not" really means; what an informed conscience really is; how we get an informed conscience; and how to bring disagreements with the Church to the Church.
In this talk about teenagers, Mama and Daddy tell us how to raise our teens in the faith. They give some pointers and reveal the secrets of how they've raised my brothers and me in our Catholic faith. I can tell you what they've done works, and the fact that my older brother is finishing his second year at a prominent - and orthodox - Catholic university is a testament to that! -Andrew
What is chastity? Can we have chastity in marriage? Can we be unchaste even if we are celibate? Mama and Daddy explain this virtue with grace and ease. They tell us how simple chastity is, they give us ways to stay chaste, and what a chaste life is; they give some examples of saintly chaste couples. NOTE: This topic is may be confusing for children, while Mom and Dad keep a gentle and "G-rated" approach, children may have more questions they need answered. Please be prepared to answer them truthfully to the point you believe they can understand. Storks can only last for so long!
In this episode of On the Road to Perfection, Mama and Daddy talk about Peace. What is Peace? When do we have Peace? Who grants us Peace? Mama and Daddy tell us all about this important Fruit of the Spirit, and how it leads us all to a, not only peaceful, but more faithful and joyful life!
What is modesty? Is modesty only in the clothes we wear? Why is it important to be modest? What if we can't be Modest? Mama and Daddy brave the snow and tell us what modesty really is, how hard it may be, and how to avoid the flow of culture that leads to an immodest lifestyle. This may be an uncomfortable subject, but Mama and Daddy talk about it with such ease and grace that we'll all be glad we joined the conversation. -Andrew
What is love? How do we love in everyday life? Is love, as Dad puts it, an "ooey-gooey" feeling? In this episode of On The Road To Perfection, Mom and Dad talk about love, how we are to love, and what is the greatest love; not to mention a lot more songs than average! - Andrew
What is Faithfulness? What does it mean to be unfaithful? Who are we supposed to be faithful to? In this episode Mama and Daddy discuss the faithfulness, and tell us about their faithfulness at the same time. -Andrew
How can we be gentle? What is gentleness? Is being gentle only a feminine trait? Join Mom and Dad in discussing the gentle topic of gentleness gently, and, ladies and gentlemen, it is the show we've all been waiting for! Show notes are included on the episode page. -Andrew
How can we be generous for the Lord? Jesus told the rich man in the Gospel of Matthew to give away all his stuff and follow him, is this generosity? What about Zacchaeus giving four times the amount which he stole? How about being generous with time? Mom and Dad talk about all these questions about generosity in this episode of On The Road To Perfection!
Goodness gracious! What is goodness and how to be good and do good are sometimes pretty confusing things. Do they ever conflict in your life? Beth and Kristofer talk about everything from Good Samaritan laws to getting a glimpse of God in every Goodness. This talk and walk is good to go!
"You gotta be cruel to be kind!" Wait...what? This is a fun topin but a serious one, recognizing that this Fruit of the Spirit specifically is NOT about being nice! Beth and Kristofer explore the difference and why Kindness is the way to go when having to choose between the two.
Did they come from afar, or a fire? Depends on your accent, and don't get us started on whether or not its kings, magi, wise men...or even if there were three or more, or less! Oh gosh, the confusion! That must mean the whole thing is a myth, hoax, or legend, right? Um...no. Quite the opposite. And we talk about what it all means and how it applies to us every day... Tune in for an epiphany of your own...
Have a cup of cheer! Christmas is a big deal in the Cowles household, and this will give you a dose of it! From St. Joseph to Mel Brooks, walk and talk with Beth and Kristofer on Christmas Eve as they explore perspectives on Christmas that you just might not get anywhere else. Watch out! You may get stuck with a song or two in your head...
Don't have the patience to learn Patience? You're not alone, as you will quickly discover in this episode. While Beth is the poster child for Patience, kristofer is not. And if you want to learn how to get blessed with Patience - be careful! The secret is revealed!
JOY! Woohoo! We start off with a short rendition of that favorite kids' Bible school song and then dive right in. Do you have Joy? You know it is different than happiness, right? Well, let's talk about that and find out how, why, and where you have joy. It's closer than you think! Afterwards, join us for Joy on our episode page: https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/joy-episode-21/
Need to answer THAT question? Need someone else to do it for you? We've got you covered, and we take this question seriously! Saint Nicholas of Myra is one of those saints we all can relate to, and whom we all live and act ike, at least for a certain part of the year. Listen to how that makes us all saint-worthy, in spite of ourselves! Then tell us your Santa Claus memories and experiences on our episode page: https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/st-nicholas-episode-20/
Happy Thanksgiving! And now for something challenging about being thankful: In this walk, we talk about Gratitude and explain its depth, not just in the surface understanding of being thankful, but in truly having an "attitude of gratitde" that goes beyond that pithy saying and delves into the soul and how Gratitude, when truly present, isn't practiced - it is lived. Join us for the ongoing conversation and tell us your gratitudemoment on our episode page: https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/gratitude-episode-19/
How do we welcome and work with saints on a practical level? Join us as we discuss particular saints in our own lives to learn how to meet and have a relationship with those saints God wants you to be intimate with. This is not a lesson on saints, but an in-depth discussion on how Kristofer and Beth and their family interact with individual saints, giving insight into how you can, too. This is boots on the ground stuff, not teaching and theory! Join us for the ongoing conversation and share your saintly relationships with us on our episode page: https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/our-saints-episode-18/
How do you discover the Talents God has given you? How do you help others do the same? What about your family's talents? In this episode, Beth and Kristofer discuss all and more, and give an exercise you can do, alone or with others, that helps show how you can multiply your money like the servants in the parable that Jesus shares in the Gospel reading coming in this Sunday's Mass. There's a spoiler for the kids, though, so goto https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/talnts-episode-17/ to know when to stop listening if they are hearing this episode with you.
Saints. What does that have to do with me? Who are they? What does the Church teach? What do I do with that information? The saints are an integral part of the Body of Christ, just as we are. Hear what that means and join us for the ongoing conversation on our web site, https://HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/saints-episode-16/
The family is the Domestic Church, but what does that mean and what are our responsibilities leading and being a part of that Church? Knowing is the first step to being and doing, so we talk about it in practical senses, and how we live the Domestic Church in our lives, and how you can, too. Simple, practical steps to get you rolling or to help you move to the next level. The Catechism makes it very clear that, as the Word proclaims, the Domestic Church is the foundational element of the Catholic Church. Listen and learn how to be a cornerstone of that foundation, and join us for the ongoing conversation on our web site, HolyOwnedAndOperated.com.
Got kids but don’t know what to do with them at Mass? Wish others didn’t bring their kids to Mass? Well, we share how to make Mass with the kids the celebration that it is. Jesus says specifically to not get in the way of children coming to Him. Bring your young kids to Mass, and learn what to do with them, how to do it, and why you need to do it. And if you have a problem with people bringing kids to Mass, we have some advice for you, too, on how to deal with it. Because you have to. Jesus cried, too! Our Lord says, “Anyone who gets in the way of these little ones coming to Jesus, it is better for them to experience the fires of Gehenna,” so, um, bring them. Listen to what we learned, and give your kids the source and summit of our faith!
Is your Church the epicenter of immoral community activity by virtue of the masks that are not worn and the credit card processing done by PayPal? Could be. That's our parish, too. This walk we talk Morality in the current context of mask wearing, and fundraising done by presumably moral pillars of the community. By virtue of our experiences that inform this discussion, we do name the places we have experienced immoral behavior...including those otherwise upright, stalwart organizations.
We say grace and talk Grace this time, giving you ideas on what it is, how to receive it, and what to do with it. Things get a little creepy with a house on our walk, and Beth asks Kristofer a Catholic question that we should all know the answer to - and you be the judge on if he answered it or not.
We share some stories about how to encourage stewardship in our family and our own lives. We talk about our experiences early in our marriage, careful to not imply a "prosperity gospel" approach to our relationship with The Lord, but instead a trust in what we already know and believe about God's love for us. And check out HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/talk-the-walk-stewardship to discuss this episode and access all of the resources mentioned.
During this 3 mile stroll, we talk all things Stewardship. What it is, what it is not, how it works, and how to work it. In this first part, learn the secrets that are not so secret, and get some resources and hints to take that first step or take your time, talent, or treasure to the next level. And check out HolyOwnedAndOperated.com/talk-the-walk-stewardship to discuss this episode and access all of the resources mentioned.
In Part 2 of our walk-and-talk about Family Prayer, we talk about why it is so important to specifically pray as a family, and not just before dinner. “The Family that prays together stays together,” certainly, and there’s more to it than that!
Part 1 of this 2 mile stroll through the rain explores the what and how of Family Prayer, sharing the struggles and fits and starts that Beth and Kristofer had instituting it in their own family.
Part 2 of this 2.06 mile stroll is is a conversation about Spiritual Direction. Naturally extending from our conversation on Community last week, we share our experiences with Spiritual Direction and talk about how important that component of our faith is to our relationship with The Lord and others. We share some ideas on Spiritual Direction and some hints on what it is and what it is not.
Part 1 of this 2.06 mile stroll is all about Community. Being Catholic and becoming perfect in our faith and in who we are supposed to be, doing what we are supposed to do, requires community as an integral part of our spiritual growth and growing in relationship with The Lord. We discuss our different community relationships and the value they bring to our relationship with The Lord, as well as some of His relationships. And we talk about how you can grow in community, wherever you are in your journey.
This is Part 2 of this 2.52 mile stroll. Last week we talked about struggling to start praying together after our wedding even though it was easy together as an engaged couple. We discussed the tools and community that helped us recognize the beauty and bounty of praying together.This week, we continue with how we each pray throughout the day, what we pray, and how all of that infiltrates and weaves the family’s prayer life together. We end with discussion about our sacred daily dinner, consecrating our family to Jesus, The Jesus Plate, and family and couple prayer that ends the day.
This is Part 1 of this 2.52 mile stroll. Apparently our passion drives the conversation, because this was in 100 degree heat! This week we talk about struggling to start praying together after our wedding even though it was easy together as an engaged couple. We discuss the tools and community that helped us recognize the beauty and bounty of praying together. Some of those tools are listed in the resources to the right. Next week, we continue with how we each pray throughout the day, what we do, and how all of that infiltrates and weaves the family’s prayer life together.
This is Part 2 of this 2.45 mile stroll. See below for Part 1 from last week. We discuss the "socializing" question, our process and our evolving and constantly reviewed and revised "curriculum". And we talk about how we afford our Catholic homeschool - and how our faith is intimately woven into our teaching and learning. And we look forward to what we are doing this year, because the pandemic affects homeschoolers, too. If we can do it, you can do it – if you are supposed to!
During Part 1 of this 2.45 mile stroll, you’ll hear how we started out clueless and now our first child is an Honors double Major in Theology and History at Franciscan University – on the Dean’s List with some pretty hefty scholarships. If we can do it, you can do it – if you are supposed to! Next week is the second half, Part 2.
During this 1.9 mile walk we reflect on the hope-filled Steubenville Youth Conference we attended online as a family this past weekend. We talk about the three types of Hope and what Hope means to us us as Catholics. spouses, parents, and friends, particularly during this pain-in-the-neck pandemic.
In our inaugural episode for On The Road To Perfection, during this 1.75 mile walk in 95 degree Texas July, we talk about Perfection, the pursuit of the entire show. What "being perfect" means, what it means to Catholics, and what it means to us as Men and Women, Husbands and Wives, Dads and Moms, and how to help those we love be Perfect just as our heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:48)