What God is Not: Recent Episodes
Father Michael O'Loughlin and Mother Natalia
This week Fr. Michael talks about a conversation he had with a pilot about the beauty of nature that is seen as the pilot flies the plane. Fr. Michael then connects the beauty of nature with seeing the True Light that is God.
References:
Theodochos
The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Wounded by Love by Elder Porphyrios
Reflection on the We Have Seen the True Light prayer
A Simple Byzantine Breviary by Fr. Joel Barstad
Rejoice O Virgin Theotokos by Fr. Joel Barstad
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This week we're joined by special guests Jess Allen and Fr. Chris Seith. Jess talks about intentionally practicing liturgical living. She gives examples of what that looks like practically and how it could be different in your family life vs her family life.
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This week Mother Natalia gives some examples of how to go to confession, specifically in the Byzantine tradition. Fr. Michael outlines some practicalities from the priest's point of view and what you will hear the priest say in confession. Mother Natalia gives an example of what it might look like to go to confession when it's the parish confession time and so you don't have tons of time for interaction with the priest. The second example is when you go to confession in the context of spiritual direction, or retreat, or a scheduled confession where the priest has much more time to listen.
References:
Fr. Damien Ference on NPR
Life Hacks: Going to Confession
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This week Fr. Michael takes us through homilies he gave on Matthew 11 while on a recent retreat. He pulls out themes of childlikeness, reflecting on Jesus' teaching of aspects that are good and bad of being a child that we should and should not imitate.
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This week we're joined by special guests, Adam and Noelle Mering. They talk about their work counseling families and doing concert and bar ministries. They talk about how they learned to be intentional in the way they interact with their children as their children are in various points in their life. Adam and Noelle talk about their accidental and now intentional ministry they do at concerts and bars.
References:Family Revival
Awake, Not Woke: A Christian Response to the Cult of Progressive Ideology by Noelle Mering
No Contact: How a Seductive Ideology Broke Families and Friendships and How We Can Repair Them by Noelle Mering
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This week we're joined by special guests Nick and Lorena Towle, parishioners at Fr. Michael's outreach. Nick recently discerned a call to priesthood and they talk about their vocation story leading up to marriage and to priesthood.
References:Aim Higher!: Spiritual and Marian Reflections of Maximilian Kolbe
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This week Mother Natalia shares a story of personal growth and also ways that she can improve. She connects that story to our daily need to persevere in holiness, recognizing that the times during the weeks after Pentecost are when the "real work" is done.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on themes found in the scripture passages leading up to Pentecost. He talks about the meaning of fire and water, how they can both be destructive but cleansing. He talks about the need for community and diving in with reckless abandon.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Dr. Gerry Crete. Dr. Gerry talks about Parts Work and how we see it played out in Lord of the Rings. He talks about how we see the characters grow and change, and the different parts we see represented in the characters.
References:
Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry Crete
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on scripture readings from the book of James which recently convicted her. She talks about holding her tongue, being slow to anger, and quick to listen. She talks about the beauty of answering a question directly, as opposed to answering something which was not asked in order to make any excuse. She talks about silence and how silence can help us in our lives.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the scripture passage from Acts where Tabitha is raised from the dead. He contrasts that with the healing of Jairus' daughter in the synoptic Gospels.
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This week Fr. Michael reflect on St. Paul's conversion in Acts. He talks about the sacraments documented in this passage, and how the Eucharist leads to community and union.
Register here for The Heart of the God-Bearer - Young Adult Catholic Convocation
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This week Fr. Michael talks about Arrow Prayers, short prayers that can be employed throughout the day. He gives examples of ones that have been used by saints in the past and ones that we can employ in the future. He talks about using scripture to help us come up with arrow prayers we can use daily.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Chris Seith. Fr. Chris shares a quote from Josef Pieper's book, Only the Lover Sings. We talk about love and music, beauty that is discovered in the one we love and in those around us, and how singing points us to love.
References:
Only the Lover Sings: Art and Contemplation by Josef Pieper
Face to Face: Knowing God beyond Our Shame by Fr. Stephen Freeman
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
The Silver Chair by C.S. Lewis
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This week Fr. Michael shares a few evangelization stories, one that is ostensibly non-successful and one that is ostensibly successful. It's a beautiful witness for those of us who do not necessarily go out of our way to evangelize in this way.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about becoming the person God created her to be, using a quote from a book as a jumping off point. She differentiates between the single parts of us and the holy parts of us, recognizing that we are not our sin.
References:
Face to Face: Knowing God beyond Our Shame by Fr. Stephen Freeman
Let Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation by Parker Palmer
A Right to be Merry by Mother Mary Francis
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This week Fr. Michael walks through a few of his favorite things about the Byzantine church.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about penthos, the deep sorrow for sin, and the tears that can be related to that, using the writings of St. John Climacus as a jumping off point. He talks about sorrow for sins of the world and the different types of tears we can experience.
References:
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Vassilios Papavassiliou
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
Quote from St. John Climacus
"In the domain of creation, as in that of compunction, there is that which moves itself and that which is moved by some other agent. When the soul grows tearful, weeps, and is filled with tenderness, and all this without having striven for it, let us run for the Lord has arrived uninvited and is holding out to us the sponge of loving sorrow, the cool waters of blessed sadness with which to wipe away the record of our sins. Guard these tears like the apple of your eye until they go away, for they have a power greater than anything that comes from our own efforts and our own meditation."
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This week Mother Natalia walks through some practical tips on going to confession. She gives examples of sins that could be confessed and talks about nuances that could help the penitent.
References:
Examinations of Conscience Suggestions from FOCUS
Thirty Steps to Heaven by Vassilios Papavassiliou
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the deception of Adam and Eve by the devil in Genesis 3. He talks about the ways we can be deceived and how sin blinds us to the deception happening.
References:
The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
Perelandra by C.S. Lewis
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This week Mother Natalia shares a recent prayer experience she had while using Parts Work. She talks about her surprise in encountering many parts that were impacted by something going on in her life. She shares her experience talking to them with Jesus, watching Jesus talk to them, and having Jesus watch her talk to them. She talks about the healing she received from this prayer experience.
References:
Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry Crete
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This week Fr. Michael talks about learning to listen for God's voice. He talks about how we can start to encounter God in prayer and hearing Him in our daily life. He reflects on how we know what our our friends and those we love need, and how in a similar way, we can know the voice of God.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Maddie! Maddie is currently a dokimos at the monastery. Maddie talks about C.S. Lewis' book, Till We Have Faces, and how it was so impactful to her in the her time of discernment. She shares themes of the book and how we can see these in our day to day life.
References:
Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis
Dr. Peter Kreeft's Lecture on Till We Have Faces Part 1 and Part 2
Hundredfold by Sister Agnes
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This week Mother Natalia has a few short topics. First she talks about making her smart phone less smart to help her grow in virtue. Then she talks about spiritual motherhood in response to an email from a listener. Finally, she gives a quick overview of a talk she's giving.
References:
Friendship in the Lord by Fr. Paul Hinnebusch
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This week Fr. Michael recounts his recent visit to Thailand. He talks about the people he encountered, especially Fr. Raymond. He shares how Fr. Raymond interacts with his parishioners who span a wide geography.
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This week Mother Natalia shows us how criticism is contagious. She gives a few examples in her life and talks about how she's noticed this in herself and others. She talks about how our interactions with people give them a hint of who we are when we aren't with them, and the way we might build them up or tear them down to others.
References:
Setting the Table by Danny Meyer
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This week Fr. Michael talks about ways the devil may have attacked Adam and Eve's memory, putting shame into memories where there was no shame before. He talks about ways that shame can prevent a full relationship with God.
References:
Descent into Light Podcast
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This week Mother Natalia shares a recent conviction she had about being silent during periods of silence. She uses that to give suggestions on what we can do for the Great Fast, moderate things instead of grand gestures.
References:
The Philokalia, Volume 2
Great Lent: Journey to Pascha by Alexander Schmemann
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on tradition vs canon, inspired by his recent Christmas tree decorating. (Yes, this was recorded a few weeks back!) He talks about ways to identify tradition vs canon in our individual life, our family life, and our parish life. He talks about the importance of setting norms, even for adults, but also being able to identify when flexibility is needed. Fr. Michael also talks about setting aside work for the sake of rest.
References:
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
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This week Fr. Michael talks about prayer and being sincere in prayer, both directly with God and also when asking the saints for assistance. He also talks about spiritual fatherhood and some of the ways he's experienced some of the "normal" experiences that biological fathers experience.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on the Visitation, and how Mary may have felt seen by Elizabeth. She talks about the importance of being seen by others and the importance of us seeing each other. Mother Natalia also talks about the healing that comes from being seen by Christ in confession.
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This week we have two mini-topics. First we talk about priestly celibacy and married priesthood, the spousal relationship with the church and the spousal relationship with Christ. Then we make a shift and talk about the cycles within the church, daily reception of the Eucharist, and how some of the norms around daily reception of the Eucharist came to be.
References:
Behold a Great Light: A Daily Devotional for the Nativity Fast through Theophany by Stephen De Young
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the archangel Gabriel and the meaning of his name. He talks about the manly strength of God and how Gabriel shows us this strength in his actions. Fr. Michael talks about fear of the Lord and how that differs from our fear of people or things that could happen to us.
References:
Fire of Mercy, Heart of the Word by Erasmus Leiva-Merikakis
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This week we've got a banter only episode. Enjoy!
References:
Finding God in the World: An Introduction to Josef Pieper's Sacramental Worldview
The Good News About Being Human in the Age of AI by Hope Schneir
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This week Fr. Michael walks through the phrase "Let us be attentive. Peace be to all. Wisdom, be attentive!" that we hear during Divine Liturgy. He talks about the etymology of some of the words, the purpose of the sentences, and how we're called to be especially attentive after hearing those commands from the priest or deacon.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about finding beauty in the midst of suffering. She gives examples of saints lives who were able to find beauty despite their suffering. She also talks about how God draws good out of suffering, despite suffering being an evil.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on her recent retreat in Colorado. She talks about the rest she had during retreat and the moments of rest she has during her busy life. She talks about the importance of purposefully finding rest throughout our day, week, month, and year.
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This week Fr. Michael takes inspiration from a prayer said by the Maronite priests at the end of Divine Liturgy. He talks about how important the altar is to a priest and how the priest is "tethered" to the altar. He then expounds further into sacred spaces that are important to the lay people and monastics, and how each person can be reminded of this before or after leaving that space.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about how we are formed by the community around us. She gives examples of formation within a monastic community, family, and friends. She talks about how our formation can lead us down the wrong paths, but through God's grace how we can turn back to the truth.
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This week Fr. Michael talks to Fr. Nathan Symeon and Fr. Joel Barstad about married priests and celibate priests in the Eastern Catholic Churches. They talk about considerations that need to be taken for each option.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on the Gospel passage where Peter walks on water and asks Jesus to save him. She talks about realizing that God works to save us in the midst of the storm, but doesn't necessarily have the storm cease. Fr. Michael prepares for the homily for the upcoming Sunday, reflecting on the Epistle and the Gospel as well.
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This week Mother Natalia shares stories of three beautiful things that happened to her recently. She talks about relying on technology vs encountering people. She shares a story of being able to use Photina funds to give to someone in need. She also reminds us that God wants to work for good for us in everything that we're doing, even the super mundane things.
References:
Into Your Hands, Father: Abandoning Ourselves to the God Who Loves Us by Fr. Wilfrid Stinissen
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the Gospel from the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. He discovered that the root word means both shame and exalt or lift up, and he compares those in relation to how we live out our lives. He talks about bringing shame to Christ by our actions and inactions, and what it means that Christ will be ashamed of us if we shame Him.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about our identity and understanding our identity as God sees us. She talks about recognizing our identity in God as opposed to the circumstances of our life like parenting, work, school status, etc.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the recent Gospel passage of the unforgiving servant. He talks about how our forgiveness flows from words, to our minds, to our heart and the differences between those areas. He talks about the need to pursue forgiveness and ask for the grace to forgive from the heart.
References:
Matt 18:23-35
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This week Mother Natalia talks about a conviction she had while listening to a homily about having a softness of heart and how that helps us when we're encountering someone we don't like. She talks about realizing that she was being overly critical of someone and how that realization was a good wake-up call. She talks about discerning being critical of what someone is saying vs the person themselves.
References:
He Leadeth Me by Walter Ciszek
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This week Fr. Michael continues his topic on Secrets of the Liturgy Revealed, talking about the prayers that are prayed quietly by the priest during Divine Liturgy. He and Mother Natalia talk about some of their favorite prayers and reflect on the beauty of them.
References:
Secrets of the Liturgy Revealed!!!
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This week we’re delighted to welcome Anthony D'Ambrosio and Andrew Holzschuh who wrote, directed, and filmed the movie Triumph of the Heart about St. Maximilian Kolbe. We talk about some of the things that inspired Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia as they watched the film, the beauty found within the movie, and the message of Christian hope that we can take from the movie.
References:
Triumph of the Heart Tickets
Frassati Film
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This week Fr. Michael walks through some of the prayers that the priest prays during Divine Liturgy that the congregation does not hear. He talks about some of the intention behind the prayers, including when the celebrant is asking his fellow priests to pray for him.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on some insights she had during a recent Theology of the Body retreat. She talks about the need to stay present in whatever you're doing, whether that's eating an orange, answering emails, texting a friend, etc. She talks about how to be a saint in our time, by exaggerating the things the world doesn't do well to inspire them to do those things well.
References:
Saint Thomas Aquinas by G.K. Chesterton
Humanality
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Mother Natalia was recently on Catholic Feedback with Keith Nester and we're dropping the episode in your feed today! Mother Natalia talks a bit about how she found the Byzantine Catholic church, hiding beneath masks, sin, beauty, and how she ended up at the monastery.
Thanks to Keith and his team for recording our audio and video for this week!
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This week's episode was recorded live at the Byzantine Assembly in Indiana! This week Mother Natalia reflects on a grace shared by a pilgrim about beauty. She talks about sharing beauty with people and with God. We also have some Q&A at the end of the session.
Thanks to WJOB in Indiana for recording the audio and video for this episode.
References:Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer
Laurus by Eugene Vodolazkin
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the reaction of the shepherds to the driving out of demons from the swine, and how that reaction differs from St. Photina's reaction to encountering Christ. He talks about how Jesus can look at our true poverty and provide true contentment.
References:Matt 8:28 - 33
John 4:1-30
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This week Mother Natalia is joined by Fr. Chris Seith. Mother Natalia uses John 9 and the prayers of the week for the man born blind as her inspiration for today's episode. She talks about our gifts and how they build up our community. She also talks about God's delight in us.
References:
John 9
Faith, Hope, Love by Joseph Pieper
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This week we're joined by special guest Fr. Nathan Symeon. Fr. Nathan and Fr. Michael talk about listening to the Holy Spirit and others. They also talk about their experience as participants in a review of the final document from the synod on synodality.
References:
Integrated Evangelization by Monsignor Richter
Sobornost by Catherine Doherty
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This week Mother Natalia asks Fr. Michael to reflect on his twenty years of priesthood, one day after his anniversary. She asks him some questions from the podcast team as well as from her.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about assumptions and how they can hurt others. She talks about sensitivity needed in difficult discussions and the need to listen to people instead of just blathering on to hear ourselves speak.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the vocation of priesthood and ways that seminarians could be guided in their discernment towards married or celibate priesthood. He talks about some practicalities of support of priests and their families by the eparchy and the related challenges. He focuses on the mission of priests and how that could be different for married and celibate priests.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the poverty we find ourselves in and how it can be attractive to others. He uses the stories of Photina, St. Moses the Black, and Mary Magdalene to show how each of them embraced some level of poverty, ultimately bringing Jesus to others.
References:
John 4:1-42
Luke 16:9
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
Fr. Michael's Guest Appearances:
Connor Gallagher's podcast
Roots of Faith podcast
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the healing of the paralytic at the pool and how his years of longing for healing was fulfilled. He relates that to healing in our own lives and how we can sometimes cling to a solution we've identified instead of relying on the Lord to identify the way we will be healed.
References:
John 5:1-15
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Nathan Symeon. Fr. Nathan Symeon talks about apophatic and cataphatic theology, but more specifically the differences between apophatic and cataphatic prayer. He talks about how we can experience apophatic prayer in our lives and the importance of paying attention to the Holy Spirit working in our prayer life.
References:Searchers of the Lost - Fr. Nathan's podcast
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This week we're joined by Bishop Erik Varden. Bishop Varden, Mother Natalia, and Fr. Michael talk about recognizing Jesus in others, living a contemplative life, the Syriac fathers, and the beauty of chastity.
Be sure to check out Bishop Varden's podcast, Desert Fathers in a Year, in partnership with Exodus 90.
Bishop Varden also has a website he posts to regularly.
References:
Chastity: Reconciliation of the Senses by Bishop Erik Varden
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Chris Seith. Mother Natalia and Fr. Chris talk about the monastic life and how their constant life of prayer calls us to incorporate God into our lives. They talk about Orientale Lumen and the call to reinvigorate the monastic life around the world. Mother Natalia and Fr. Chris talk about some of the differences in liturgical practices in the Byzantine and Roman rites and how those can be inspirational for both churches.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about a revelation she had about sin and listening to God. She talks about how our thoughts impact the way we act. Mother Natalia talks about the way we need to practice listening to Our Lord so that we can be aware of how the devil is tempting us.
References:Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder Thaddeus
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This week Fr. Michael talks about a recent discovery he made about rest and preparation. He talks about the importance of both and how they are linked together. Fr. Michael talks about how preparation makes many things go smoothly and give us time for rest.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about rules and the gift they can be in our lives. He talks about the difference between checking boxes and fully embracing the Church's teaching. Fr. Michael talks about how structure and order can easily veer into just checking the box instead of seeing the deeper picture.
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This week Mother Natalia repurposes a talk she gave recently about relationship and efficiency. She talks about her initial thought that relationship is greater than efficiency and how her thoughts on that changed. Mother Natalia gives some concrete examples of relationship and efficiency in action from her personal life.
References:Rekindling Wonder by Fr. Chris Seith
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This week Fr. Michael talks about life after death, specifically the teaching of the early church Fathers. He uses the book Life After Death as part of his main talking points. We hear a bit about how this teaching helped Mother Natalia realize that her heart was truly Eastern.
References:Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church
A Simple House
Life After Death by Metropolitan of Nafpaktos Hierotheos
Leaf by Niggle by J.R.R. Tolkien
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This week Mother Natalia talks about intentionally incorporating Jesus into our lives. She gives two examples of this in action in her own life, in embroidery and running, and how she was able to come to a prayerful understanding of that in her own life.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about prayer, fasting, and alms-giving in relation to the Great Fast and the paradoxes that exist within each of those. He talks about humility and how we can find a paradox within our humility as well.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about some of the things she's excited to encounter while on the upcoming pilgrimage. She differentiates between pilgrimage and vacation, reminding us that we're supposed to be uncomfortable on pilgrimage. She connects pilgrimages to the Great Fast, and talks about how pilgrimages ultimately connect us to longing for heaven.
References:The Shattering of Loneliness by Bishop Erik Varden
Prayer Resources in the Great Fast from Mother Cecilia
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the importance of knowing Jesus and encountering Him in prayer. He talks about the need to encounter Him in our regular devotions like Divine Liturgy, Mass, Rosary, etc., but how we must also seek Him out in one-on-one prayer. Fr. Michael talks about resting in Jesus and the importance of that as we continue our spiritual journey.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15. He talks about how each of us can reflect the thoughts and actions of the younger son, the older son, and the father. He talks about the significance of the younger son wanting his inheritance now instead of when his father dies as well as the significance of the younger son working with pigs.
References:
Luke 15:11 - 32
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week we're joined by special guest Joni Seith. Joni share with us the many sufferings she's endured over 30+years, and how she has used that suffering as a form of prayer. She talks about how her family has helped her in this, and how she's learned to be grateful despite her suffering.
References:
Pain of Grace by Joni Seith
Eucharistic Prayer read by Joni
Joni's blog
Cor ad Cor
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week's episode was recorded live at SEEK25. Fr. Michael talks about vulnerability in leadership. He references written and spoken vulnerability in leaders from group commitments, prayers said by the priest at baptism, and prayers said by the monastic or liturgical leader at night prayer. Thanks to the team at Max Studios for recording this episode!
References:Brene Brown's TED Talk on Vulnerability
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
Chris Stefanick Pilgrimage to Italy
SEEK Replay
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Mother Iliana. Mother Natalia and Mother Iliana talk about a mistake that was made that impacted their relationship. They give background on all the other things going on in their individual lives before the mistake was made, and how those things made the mistake seem much bigger and smaller. They talk about the repair that was made in their relationship, and how each of them experienced the healing.
References:What Suffering is Not with Mother Iliana
The Light of His Eyes with Mother Iliana
The Light of His Eyes: Journeying from Self-Contempt to the Father's Delight by Mother Iliana
That's Not the Point Part 1
That's Not the Point Part 2
Pray for Us: 75 Saints who Sinned, Suffered, and Struggled on Their Way to Holiness by Meg Hunter-Kilmer
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on a sentence in a prayer that the priest prays during Divine Liturgy, "...in the greatness of your mercy you have brought all things out of nonexistence into being..." Fr. Michael talks about what it means for God to be mercy, to give mercy, and why God brought us into being in the first place. He reads some reflections from Archbishop Raya in the Byzantine Book of Prayer.
References:
Byzantine Book of Prayer from Byzantine Seminary Press
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on her recent poustinia, where the Lord placed the idea of rest on her heart. She talks about the ways she can rest in her monastic life allowing God to take charge in her life. She talks about how we are all called to rest, despite labor also being important to the rest of our lives. Mother Natalia also talks about the importance of recognizing beauty in the world, and how that beauty reflects back to God.
References:
Fire of Mercy, Heart of the Word: Meditations on the Gospel According to St. Matthew by Erasmo Leiva-Merikakis
To Heights and unto Depths: Letters from the Colorado Trail by Fr. John Nepil
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about ruptured relationships and the hurt that comes in that rupture. She talks about offering up relationships to the Lord, recognizing that healing in the relationship may not come in this life, and the desire to have union with everyone in heaven. She links this to Saints Stephen and Paul, who did not have a great relationship on this life, but now through union with God, have an amazing relationship in heaven.
Special thanks to Kyle and Drew from Catholic Creator Conference for letting us use their studio while at SEEK. Check out their YouTube pages too! Kyle's Page and Drew's Page
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about anamnesis and relates it to our day-to-day life. He talks about the origins of anamnesis in Liturgy and how we can remember the good God has done in our individual prayers. He also talks about epiclesis and the interplay with anamnesis. Fr. Michael talks about how anamnesis can be twisted and used in an evil way, not just in the good way we encounter during Liturgy or in our day to day lives.
References:Gematria
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This week we start out with a mini-topic on the icon of the Trinity. Then for the main topic, Fr. Michael reflects on a prayer that is said during matins where we beg God to save us through the intercession of the holy martyrs. He relates the intercession of the martyrs to gift giving. Fr. Michael talks about everything surrounding gift giving, both the intention of the giver and the vulnerability of the receiver. He talks about how the saints and martyrs give to us by praying for us and how we can presume upon the love and intercession of the saints and martyrs.
References:Pray for Us by Meg Hunter-Kilmer
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We're joined again this week by special guest, Fr. Chris. Fr. Chris is back with us to talk about Tolkien and Lord of the Rings. Fr. Chris talks about the difference between authority and power; mind and forming matter vs mind over matter; and the use of technology in our lives and how we can feel ourselves being controlled by it instead of us controlling technology.
References:
Tolkien-ology with Fr. Chris Seith Pt. 1
Rekindling Wonder by Fr. Chris Seith
Beginning to Pray by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
Pain of Grace by Joni Seith
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Chris Seith. Mother Natalia and Fr. Chris talk about Aragorn's Today is Not that Day speech and how it relates to the spiritual life. Fr. Chris talks about some of Tolkien's intentions in writing the book, how technology plays a role in the book, and how we can learn from that.
References:Searchers of the Lost - Fr. Nathan's Podcast
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on nostalgia, and the ways it can be manifest in both good and bad ways. He talks about how nostalgia is a way of thinking about the transcendent that we experienced in the past, which is ultimately our longing for heaven.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on Psalm 63, which he has felt the Lord calling him to give as a penance in confession. Fr. Michael walks through some of the verses in the Psalm and contemplates some ways we can link the passages to our daily life.
References:Psalm 63 (or 62 if you're in the Septuagint)
Unwisting Legion
Pilgrimage:We're going on pilgrimage! You can find all the details including dates, itinerary, and cost at the 206tours website. Want to hear this directly from Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia? Check out our announcement video.
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This week Mother Natalia and Fr. Michael reflect on the entrance of their friend and spiritual daughter, Maddie, into Christ the Bridegroom Monastery. Mother Natalia then reflects on one of her favorite stichera that we sing during the Nativity, and encourages us to reflect on it in this week leading up to the celebration of Nativity.
References:IntroductiontotheDevoutLifebySt. Francis de Sales
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on a passage in Luke where Jesus encounters the man living with the legion of demons, which he then casts out. He talks about how the devil twists the truth and beauty and the world, perverting it which leads to sin. He sees this both in the man inhabited by the demons but also in the townspeople. Fr. Michael talks about ways we can also have this same distortion in our lives, even if we're not possessed by demons.
References:Luke 8: 26-39The Real Meaning of Lucifer
Tender Life Maternity
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This Mother Natalia talks about her recent experience on a long run and how that compares to the spiritual life. She breaks down her run into three parts, each of them equating to us persevering in holiness.
References:Rekindling Wonder by Fr. Chris Seith
Akathist of Thanksgiving
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This week Fr. Michael takes inspiration from Matthew's gospel to talk about Jesus not being accepted as a prophet in his own home. Fr. Michael takes this further to talk about the ways we can be jealous of others, even of the good that they're doing. He talks about living with hardship and trying to not be jealous of others who are having different experiences than us.
References:Protoevangelium of JamesHot Mess Hot Takes
Matt 13: 53-58
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This week Mother Natalia shares something that she asked for in prayer. She shares how that impacted her as she tried to remember that as she went about her day. Mother Natalia makes a suggestion to us on how to incorporate this into our lives as well.
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This week Fr. Michael unpacks two scripture passages that many find hard to receive, especially with our knowledge that God is good and loving.
References:
Episode with Abigail
Mark 11: 12-25, the passage about the fig tree
Exodus 7:13-14, the passage on the hardening of Pharaoh's heart
Episodes on fear of God:
- Be Not Afraid
- Fear of the Lord
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This week we're joined by special guest, Bree Solstad. Bree is a new member of the podcast team and works as our video editor.
In today's episode, Bree surprises Mother Natalia by telling her why she loves her. This conversation expands more into how we see Christ in one another, how we grow in His image and likeness, and how Bree and her husband work together to create each video.
References:What Tragedy is Not with Bree Solstad
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This week we're joined by special guest, Bree Solstad. Bree recently joined the podcast team as our video editor. Thanks Bree!
Mother Natalia, Bree, and Fr. Michael talk about responding to loss. This can be as the person who experiences the loss or as someone empathizing with the person who experienced the loss. They talk about childlikeness in our relationship with God, and the beauty of the Sacrament of Confession.
References:Bree's Interview on Edify Podcast
Bree's Interview with Keith Nester
Reflection on the Widow of Nain
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This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about SEEK and their theme "Follow Me." They reflect on their experience at SEEK last year as well as the patron saint for SEEK25, St. Joan of Arc.
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This week we're joined by special guests Sandy and Therese. Sandy and Fr. Michael talk a little about Humanality, a group that Sandy helps run. Then Fr. Michael, Sandy, and Therese share about the forming of the outreach from the Proto-Cathedral, what brought them there, and what has kept them there. There's good discussion on community and family.
References:Leaning In (the episode on fasting)
Humanality
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This week Mother Natalia uses this episode to prepare for a talk she's giving. She talks about accepting the state in which you find yourself. She uses some quotes from St. Faustina to help illustrate the point of keeping close to God in the midst of your struggles. Mother Natalia talks about accepting the will of God in the present moment, even when you don’t like the situation you find yourself in.
We're joined this week by audience of one, Abigail!
References:He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek
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This week Fr. Michael talks about some of the hidden sacrifices of parents. Fr. Michael talks about the hermeneutics of moms and dads with two separate stories of parents he knows who are living out their ordinary vocation.
There's also a mini-topic this week talking about sainthood in the ordinary life.
References:A Sacred Beginning: Nurturing Your Body, Mind, and Soul during Baby's First Forty Days by Sarah Brangwynne & Sasha Rose Oxnard
Pray for Us: 75 Saints Who Sinned, Suffered, and Struggled on Their Way to Holiness by Meg Hunter-Kilmer
He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek
Want to suggest a mini-topic? Become a patron on Patreon!
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This week we're joined by special guest Dr. Gerry Crete. Dr. Gerry and Mother Natalia talk about some of their favorite Star Trek episodes and how they relate to parts work.
References:The Inmost Self with Dr. Gerry Crete
Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry Crete
Dr. Gerry’s Review of Inside Out
Dr. Gerry’s Review of Inside Out 2
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on two listener emails. One talks about welcoming people at church and the ways we can be stretched. Another talks about recognizing the humanity in Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia in the beginning episode banter. Mother Natalia also reflects on a passage in a book by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom.
References:The Inmost Self with Dr. Gerry CreteLiving Prayer by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the various aspects of Jesus we can encounter in confession. He highlights Jesus as healer, teacher, and judge. Fr. Michael talks about how we can naturally limit our understanding of Jesus to just those three components at a specific time, but how Jesus has many parts of His character that we can encounter all at once.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on self-worth despite no visible evidence of contribution to the greater good. This comes after she got COVID and struggled with fatigue, which impacted her day-to-day operations at the monastery.
References:
Useless but not Worthless
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This week Fr. Michael takes inspiration from a parishioner who asked for grace from his family as he was going to have a difficult week. Fr. Michael talks about the need for patience and grace that we all should be giving to our family members, our monastic brothers and sisters, and our friends. He links this with Genesis 9 and the way Noah's son's treated him in his nakedness, recognizing his dignity and vulnerability.
References:Gen 9: 18-29
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This week Mother Natalia takes a mini-topic suggestion from one of our Patreon supporters and talks about it for a full episode! She talks about attachments to people, including family and celebrities, and how those can be wrongly ordered. She talks about differentiating between relying fully on God and our need to have others in our lives since "it's not good for man to be alone." She talks about recognizing when we may be placing our reliance incorrectly and how to pivot back to God.
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Today we're joined by special guest Ivy Gates. Ivy and Fr. Michael met each other on the #redbusbestbus during a Holy Land pilgrimage.
Ivy talks about authenticity and it's importance in her life. Fr. Michael shares some examples of Ivy living out her authentic self during pilgrimage and how that impacted him.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about an encounter he had in Rome, and how that encounter led him to consider his weaknesses and other people's wisdom. He talks about how we sometimes weaponize other people's weaknesses instead of recognizing their dignity as a person.
References:Stop It - Bob Newhart
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This week Mother Natalia continues her topic on discernment, talking about what not to do but also what to do. She also talks about ways that we see the resurrection in our lives, and the way that St. John saw it, not with the physical presence of Jesus (although he did see that too!) but with his initial viewing of the burial clothes. She talks about how important those signs are in our lives to help our belief and the beliefs of others.
We also have a mini-topic this week, where Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia list their favorite traits of each other.
References:Co-Authoring My Life
What Discernment is Not
Orientale Lumen
Letter to Diognetus
Marks of a True Christian
Chastity: Reconciliation of the Senses by Bishop Erik Varden
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This week Mother Natalia uses this episode to prep for a recording she's doing over at Pints! She talks about discernment and what not to do as you're discerning.
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This week Fr. Michael responds to a correction from a listener, and uses that as inspiration for this week's topic. We talk about letting God work through us and using the gifts He's given us. We talk about how the authors of scripture were so in sync with the Holy Spirit that it showed in their inspired writings.
Plus we have a mini-topic on charismatic renewal in the Byzantine Churches.
References:Dei Verbum
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This week we're joined by special guest Fr. Boniface Hicks. Mother Natalia talks about the importance of repairing relationships which have suffered a rupture, regardless of the type of relationship. They give some examples of where ruptures have occurred in the past, and how a repair might come about.
References:TED Talk from Becky Kennedy
Tenderness
Born Only Once by Conrad Baars
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This week Fr. Michael continues his discussion from several episodes ago on living out the gospel as a mom. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia respond to some reflections that listeners passed along about life as a mom and creative almsgiving.
References:Heroic Act of Charity
Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Jean-Claude Larchet
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This week we're joined by special guest Dr. Gerry Crete. We talk about some of the concepts from his book, Litanies of the Heart. We talk about the studies and prayer he's had over the years which led throughout his work. We talk about the inner self, the different parts that make up ourselves, and how the parts can interact with each other and our inner self.
References:Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry Crete
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This week Fr. Michael walks through some of the prayers of the church which can be incorporated into your daily prayer life. These are everything from prayers before and after meals to a daily examination of conscience.
A special shoutout to Antonette who took this picture of Fr. Michael!
References:Publicans Prayer Book from Sophia Press
Carsoslov (The Book of Hours) from Eastern Christian Publications
Prayer Rule of St. Pachomius
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This week Fr. Michael talks about scripture readings in Acts and John, and links them together to talk about division and having an undivided heart. He talks about the need for full attention to be given to God, and how it's hard to live this out sometimes.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about self-reflection on sin, recognizing where we've stumbled, how that has impacted others, and where we've grown. She uses a recent example of something that happened in community life to show us how this works practically.
References:Green Dolphin Street by Elizabeth Goudge
Litanies of the Heart by Dr. Gerry Crete
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This week Fr. Michael unpacks a theme he sees in the post-Pascha Sunday readings around people saying yes to Jesus immediately vs qualifying the yes or asking follow-up questions before saying yes. He talks about the reasons why we might not say yes right away, and how our human experience can get in the way of our desire to say yes.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about her recent poustinia, where she reflected on rest. Mother Natalia talks about taking to-do lists to pray while also trying to remember that prayer is relational and not something to fulfill check-boxes.
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This week we’re joined by special guest Brother Simeon Miriam from the CFRs. Brother Simeon was imminently about to start an 8-day poustinia, so in this episode we talk a bit about poustinia, the nights of poustinia he helped start in NYC, a bit about how he became Roman Catholic, and the love of breathing with both lungs.
References:The Way of a Pilgrim
The Philokalia
Franciscan Friars of the Renewal
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This week Mother Natalia talks about imperfection and recognizing that we will always be imperfect, following a retreat she gave at Wyoming Catholic College. She and Fr. Michael talk about the externals of our prayer practice, both personal prayer and prayer during Diving Liturgy or Mass. They talk about how our relationship with Christ should grow and develop over time.
References:From Christendom to Apostolic Mission by University of Mary
Scrupulosity and the Sacraments
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
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This week Mother Natalia talks about attacks of the devil that lead to despair. She vulnerably shares some personal examples, and talks about people in her life who encouraged her during these moments of despair. Mother Natalia shares some writings from St. John Chrysostom related to despair as a way to encourage and strengthen us.
Want to be a backstage listener? Become a patron on Patreon!
References:On Repentance and Defeating Despair: Letters to Theodore by St. John Chrysostom
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the names of Adam and Noah, how they're linked, and how they reflect the new Adam. Fr. Michael talks about becoming an altar and how we can live that out in our day-to-day lives.
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References:The Beginning of Desire: Reflections on Genesis by Avivah Gottlieb Zornberg
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This week Mother Natalia comes to us with some hot takes fresh off her poustinia. She talks about fear, love, vulnerability, and weakness. She talks about each of those in our relationship with God as well as our relationship with others. This episode is deep!
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This week Fr. Michael talks about how to pray and providing suggestions to friends who ask for help in praying. He talks about how prayer methods (rote prayer, contemplative prayer, etc.) work differently for each person, but ultimately how important prayer is to our daily lives and relationship with God.
References:The Art of Prayer by Kallistos Ware.
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother Lawrence
Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder Thaddeus of Vitovnica
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This week’s episode was recorded live at SEEK24. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia are joined by Fr. Boniface Hicks. They talk about how our lives would change if we inherently knew that Jesus loved us. They talk about ways this is exhibited in daily life, in prayer, in the confessional. They also talk about a sticker that premiered at SEEK and how it came to be.
Thanks to SEEK for having us and to Spoke Street Media for recording this episode.
References:Fawn and Flight with Kristin Molitor
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Today we conclude our series of the liturgies for Great and Holy Week. This week’s episode covers Great and Holy Friday, Great and Holy Saturday, and Pascha Sunday.
This is our 200th episode. We're so grateful to our listeners for your prayers and support!
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This week we continue our series of the liturgies for Holy Week. Today's episode covers Presanctified Liturgy on Holy Wednesday, matins for Holy Thursday, and Divine Liturgy on Holy Thursday.
References:The Year of Grace of the Lord by A Monk of the Eastern ChurchIsaiah 61:1-3
Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Jean-Claude Larchet
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This week we're kicking off a three part series where we walk through the liturgies for Holy Week. Today's episode covers Holy Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.
References:The Year of Grace of the Lord by A Monk of the Eastern Church
Great Lent by Fr. Alexander Schmemann
Behold the Bridegroom
Useless but not Worthless
Monday Readings: Matt 21:18-43, Ezekiel 1:1-20, Exodus 1: 1-20, Job 1:1-12, Matt 24:3-35
Tuesday Readings: Matt 22:15-23:39, Ezekiel 1:21 - 28, Exodus 2:5-10, Job 1:13-22, Matt 24:36 - 26:2
Wednesday Readings: John 12:17 - 50, Ezekiel 2:3-3:3, Exodus 2:11-22, Job 2:1-10, Matt 26:6-16
Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to your Google drive and then share with dbratnick@gmail.com so our friend David can compile. Your videos can be vertical or horizontal. We may not be able to use all the submissions but look forward to watching them! Thanks for your support.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the encounter of Simeon and Anna with the child Jesus when Jesus was presented in the Temple. Fr. Michael also shares some creative ideas for almsgiving that you can incorporate during the Great Fast and even throughout the year.
Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to your Google drive and then share with dbratnick@gmail.com so our friend David can compile. Your videos can be vertical or horizontal. We may not be able to use all the submissions but look forward to watching them! Thanks for your support.
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This week Mother Natalia continues her discussion from a few episodes about the ache and longing we have in our hearts for eternity. She talks about the exodus and pilgrimage through this life, the goods that we can ache and long for, and how ultimately earth is not our home.
References:Into Great SilenceKristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid Undset
The Ache Speaks with Mother Petra
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by John Climacus
Psalm 137
Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to your Google drive and then share with dbratnick@gmail.com so our friend David can compile. Your videos can be vertical or horizontal. We may not be able to use all the submissions but look forward to watching them! Thanks for your support.
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On this week's episode, Fr. Michael works through some ideas he has for a homily he's giving later that day. He talks about the need to be cognizant of the work God is doing in our lives, our heads, and our hearts.
References:Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigrid UndsetThe Ladder of Divine Ascent by John Climacus
Episode 200!We're celebrating our upcoming episode 200 by hearing from you! Record a 20-30 second video (or audio only) clip talking about how the podcast has impacted your life. Upload to your Google drive and then share with dbratnick@gmail.com so our friend David can compile. Your videos can be vertical or horizontal. We may not be able to use all the submissions but look forward to watching them! Thanks for your support.
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This week Mother Natalia takes a mini-topic request on recent Byzantine saints and also talks about fasting. Her discussion on fasting covers some of the reasons she likes fasting, the ways she can grow, and then some general practicalities on fasting.
References:Father Vasyl Lonchyna
What Suffering is Not with Mother IlianaThe Ladder of Divine Ascent by John Climacus
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This week Fr. Michael uses the story of Zacchaeus as inspiration for this week's episode. He talks about the childlikeness found in Zacchaeus as well as his curiosity. Fr. Michael talks about all the ways that Zacchaeus' sin is pointed out to us in the Gospel, yet we see his quick repentance and conversion.
References:Luke 19: 1-10
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This week Mother Natalia shares about a recent experience rock climbing. She talks about healthy and unhealthy fear, recognizing the help that others around us provide, and ultimately how rock climbing relates to the spiritual life.
References:Scruples and the Sacraments
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
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This week we're joined by Kristin Molitor from the Institute for Ministry Formation. Kristin talks about the fawn response to danger, perceived danger, and trauma. We talk about where the fawn response can show up in our relationships well after trauma or danger has passed. We talk about the concept of spiritual bypassing or spiritual platitudes and how those can be a way of us ignoring our deeper feelings and emotions.
References:Institute for Ministry Formation
Theosis and Tribulations by Stewart J Dunn
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This week Mother Natalia uses a scripture passage from 2 Peter as inspiration for her episode. She talks about being patient while waiting but also hastening towards our call, or whatever we're waiting for. We give some practical advice on waiting while simultaneously hastening, and also give an example of not pursuing the next step that God is calling us to.
References:2 Peter 3:11-12
Italy Tour with Chris Stefanik
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the ordinariness lived out in a mother's vocation and her hiddenness in that ordinariness. He talks about three women who have given reflections on specific Gospel passages, and how those passages have convicted the moms in their vocation. We also talk about sacrifices that parents make as they raise their children.
References:Matthew 6:5-6
John 3:30
Matthew 8:16 - 20
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This week we're joined by special guest Fr. Boniface Hicks. Mother Natalia and Fr. Boniface talk about sensitivity. They talk about being a person who is perceived as "too sensitive" and interacting with people who are more sensitive than ourselves.
References:What Humility is Not with Fr. Boniface Hicks
Institute for Ministry Formation
Grief to Grace
Tenderness
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This week Mother Natalia talks about being open and vulnerable, receiving healing the Lord provides, and the general brokenness which both of them have. We talk about online personalities and how the personalities should not become our end-all be-all in terms of knowing Jesus and following Him.
References:All Rise for Judge Natalia
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This week Fr. Michael expands on a mini-topic request on the death of infants. We talk about death and mourning, the various hymns of farewell used, why limbo came to be a concept, and the reality of evil and death.
References:The Hope of Salvation for Infants who Die without being Baptized
Scruples and the Sacraments
The Reed of God
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on two different encounters she recently had. The encounters led her to reflect on being Jesus to others and gently evangelizing others.
References:
Evil Thoughts Five through Eight (the one about anger)
The Philokalia Volume 2
Father Michael and Mother Natalia Out and AboutChris Stefanik - Nobody Wants to Talk about This
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We're in person this week! This week Father Michael walks through the prayers that are said as a bishop is vested at a hierarchical Divine Liturgy. Plus we've got a minitopic on confession.
References:CSYSK Episode on Priestly Vesting Prayers
Lord of the World by Robert Hugh Benson
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This week we're joined by Alex from Voice of Reason! We recorded this episode live at the Metropolitan Assembly in New Jersey. Fr. Michael and Alex talk about living a life of service and holiness, imitating the holy people around us, and bringing others to the faith.
References:God With Us
Voice of Reason (YouTube)
The Forgotten: Catholics of the Soviet Empire from Lenin through Stalin
Finding a Hidden Church
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This week Mother Natalia and Fr. Michael talk about places in scripture where we see the theme of light as they reflect on SEEK24’s theme of Be the Light.
References:Romans 13:12
1 John 1:5-7
John 4:7-42
Hymns for the feast of the Theophany of the Lord
SEEK24
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This week we're joined by special guest, Mother Petra! Mother Petra and Mother Natalia talk about experiencing an ache for beauty and how that ache can be given to us by God. We talk a lot about C.S. Lewis, a favorite of both Mother Petra and Mother Natalia.
Plus we've got a mini-topic on praying with religious art.
References:Mother Petra on The Journey HomeThe Weight of Glory by C.S. Lewis
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis
Reflections on the Psalms by C.S. Lewis
Letting Gifts be Gifts
Beginning to Pray by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
CaringBridge Site for Brian
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This week we're joined by special guest Kyle Washut, president of Wyoming Catholic College. We talk about how our relationships across all areas of life impact each other, the founding of Wyoming Catholic College, and what it's like to intentionally create a college that "breathes with both lungs."
References:Poustinia by Catherine Doherty
Erin Planned
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We've got a crossover episode! Fr. Michael records this week with Fr. Mike Rapp from Catholic Stuff You Should Know. Fr. Mike asks Fr. Michael all the questions about Byzantine tradition and practices.
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on the feast of the Exaltation of the Cross. In this feast, we shower the cross in the church with flowers to show the significance and importance of the feast. Fr. Michael talks about the need for us to look at our personal crosses with this same sort of significance and reverence.
Plus we've got a mini-topic this week on dating.
References:Ministering to Monsters
Mother Iliana on Pints with Aquinas
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This week Mother Natalia talks about usefulness vs worthlessness. Our worth is not found in what we do but who we are. This is certainly a hard topic for us to process and we need reminded of this regularly.
We also have a mini-topic on holiness.
References:A Sign of UselessnessDeath in the Shadows by Paul McCusker
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This week Fr. Michael talks about the parable of the wedding banquet found in Matthew, another scripture passage that has confused both him and Mother Natalia. We talk about inspiration we've had from the passage, linking it back to the Garden of Eden and Adam and Eve's nakedness. We talk about our need to give up our attachments in order to accept the glorious garment given to us at the resurrection.
Plus we've got a mini-topic from a Patron. Thanks to everyone who supports us on Patreon!
References:
Matt 22:1-14
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
Be Not Afraid Episode
Fear of the Lord Episode
The Symbolic World Podcast
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This week Mother Natalia talks about the Protoevangelion of James and walks through some of the tradition found within it. We talk about traditions jointly shared between the Eastern and Western churches, and some of the traditions that are believed in the East.
References:Protoevangelion of James
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Today's episode is inspired by an episode from The Symbolic World. Fr. Michael uses the Pentecost for the Zombie Apocalypse episode to talk about ministering to those in the world and meeting people where they're at in their lives.
References:Pentecost for the Zombie Apocalypse
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This week we're joined by special guest Rachel Schmitt who is our Operations Manager. Rachel and Mother Natalia talk about saying yes in generosity and no in prudence when we're asked to do something. They talk about aligning your will with the Father's so you can know if your yes or no is the right decision, and they give some practical examples of this in action.
Bonus, Rachel's infant daughter joins us on this episode too!
References:PDF Link - How to Discern the Elements of Your Vocation by Fr. Peter F. Ryan, S.J.
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This week Fr. Michael talks about St. Ephrem, or St. Ephraim depending on your spelling preference. He highlights some key facts that we should all know about this great saint.
References:Cereal and the Prayer of St. Ephraim
Serial (2 of 2) and the Prayer of St. Ephraim
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This week Mother Natalia talks about tenderness and ways we experience the tender heart of the Father and Our Lady. She talks about the ways she's experienced tenderness from Fr. Michael and Fr. Boniface, tenderness in spiritual direction, and tenderness in interactions with others.
References:Our Lady of Tenderness
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This week Fr. Michael continues his topic from last week on fear of the Lord. We talk about what the fear of the Lord is, what it is not, and how it's misunderstood.
References:Episode 1 - Be Not Afraid
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This week's episode is part one of two on Fear of the Lord. Fr. Michael talks about self-reliance, relying on God, and not being afraid to ask for help. Tune in next week for part two!
References:Lord of the Spirits Podcast
Bridegroom's Banquet
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Pilgrimage
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This week we're joined by Mother Iliana who has released a new book, The Light of His Eyes. We talk about how the book came to be, some concepts from the book, and ways Mother Iliana has seen the Lord working in her life.
References:The Light of His Eyes by Mother Iliana
Taare Zameen Par (Every Child is Special movie)
The Soul of Shame by Dr. Curt Thompson
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This week Fr. Michael talks about Alive in Christ, an aesthetical boot camp for Byzantine Catholic young men. He talks about the idea for the camp, the structure, and the ways that he sees the boys grow as leaders. Fr. Michael also gives an overview of the chastity talk he gave to the dads, and Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about invitations to chastity and unchastity.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on God's extravagance with us, our extravagance with Him, and our extravagance with each other. She gives examples of extravagance from Scripture and we have a mini-topic at the end of the episode.
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This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about Marian apparitions, the Catholic belief surrounding Mary, and their interactions and experiences with the Mother of God. Thank you to our patrons on Patreon for suggesting the topic!
References:Prelest
For Little Eyes by Rebecca O'Loughlin
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This week Mother Natalia talks about her recent poustinia camping experience with Sister Onuphria. We hear about the general humanness of the experience, but then Mother Natalia is able to relate it to the spiritual life and scrupulosity.
References:The Spiritual Life and How to be Attuned to it by St. Theophan the Recluse
Beyond Checking Boxes
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
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This week we're joined by Sean and Rebecca O'Loughlin, brother and sister-in-law of Father Michael. We talk about their early friendship and dating, realizing love for each other, and family life. We also talk about pregnancies and births, both easier and difficult, miscarriages, fostering, and adoption.
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on her recent retreat which used some of the steps from AA as inspiration. She talks about discovering ways in which she bargains with God on giving up certain sins, and talks about the hurt and healing that comes in the process of giving up sins.
References:Eustace Scrubb by Sarah Sparks
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On today's episode, Fr. Michael reflects on his recent trip to the Holy Land. He talks about community found in our faith and seeking the truth. Fr. Michael talks about the different ways we can be led to the faith, and how God uses those different ways to help us see the good, true, and beautiful.
If you're in the Colorado area, don't skip the banter!
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On today's episode Fr. Michael talks about seeing good in the midst of negative interactions with people. He talks about how God created everything good and how when we sin we're still seeking the good.
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On today's episode Fr. Michael talks about seeing good in the midst of negative interactions with people. He talks about how God created everything good and how when we sin we're still seeking the good.
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This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about prayer. Mother Natalia talks a little bit about what the term "spousal prayer" means at her monastery. We talk about the "outcome" of prayer and advancing in prayer.
References:Beginning to Pray by Metropolitan Anthony Bloom
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This week Mother Natalia talks about healing, living in the present moment, and allowing Our Lord to work in the present reality.
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This week Father Michael links the story of the loaves and the fishes to the story of the Samaritan woman. He talks about how we can see God working in our lives and differentiating that from the "work that we're doing."
We've also got a special announcement for our Photina patrons!
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Today we're joined by special guest, Barry Alvord, father of Beth from our media team. Barry talks about a time in his life when he experienced three big crises, how he realized he was struggling with negative thoughts, and how he sought to counteract them.
References:Our Thoughts Determine Our Lives by Elder Thaddeus
The Monks of Tibhirine by John W. Kiser
Wounded by Love by Elder Porphyrius
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Today's episode was inspired by a talk on Fellowship that Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia gave for God with Us Online. Fr. Michael uses today's episode to talk about all the stuff they didn't have time for in that talk. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about the importance of fellowship, serving others, and foot washing.
References:Fellowship, the talk for God With Us Online
Setting the Table by Danny Meyer
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Today's episode is a recording of the talk Mother Natalia gave at the SoCal Byzantine Retreat Day in March. Mother Natalia talks about the promises God makes to us and that He fulfills His promises. She uses the scripture of the day for the feast of the Annunciation to link the promises in the Annunciation to the promises made in the Old Testament, and then talks about ways we can see God's promises to us in our lives.
References:Luke 1:26-38The Year of Grace of the Lord
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Today Fr. Michael talks about shame, the causes of it and what we can do to prevent it. We talk about how Jesus approaches us in our sin, looking to cover our shame but not hide our sin, and how we can use that same approach with ourselves and others we encounter. We have practical discussion about "shaming" others, and how that can be problematic when we do not know the entire story.
References:How to Profit From Your Faults by Joseph Tissot
Talk by Fr. Stephen Freeman
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This week Fr. Michael talks about how we're all called to live authentic Catholic lives, striving for salvation of souls and not necessarily "checking the Catholic boxes". He specifically talks about how parish priests and monastics can help the laity in this regard, and how the needs of parishes differ from one parish to the next.
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Father Michael and Mother Natalia recorded this episode live in California! On today’s episode they talk about the longing Israel had for God to fulfill His promises, and how we also have desires Cod longs to fulfill. Our aches and His promises are gifts.
References:Watch it Live!
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This week Mother Natalia continues with her topic of goodness from her last episode, and uses a homily as a jumping off point to talk about gifts. The homily followed the reading about Noah and the flood, and talked about how Noah and the people in the Ark were waiting for the gift of land to be able to live. Mother Natalia also talks about the difference between gifts and the giver, and how we can have attachments to the gifts instead of the giver.
We also have a listener suggested mini topic and talk about Mark 3:28-30.
References:
Word from a Poustinik: Goodness
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
The Spiritual Life and How to be Attuned to It by St. Theophan the Recluse
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This week Fr. Michael is joined by special guest, Fr. Nathan Symeon. Fr. Nathan and Fr. Michael walk through the readings for that Sunday and talk about the themes they're hearing in the readings which they use for a homily.
References:Married Priesthood
Leaning In (episode on fasting)
Hebrews 11: 24-26, 32-40, 12:1-2
John 1: 43-51
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This week Mother Natalia reflects on goodness and our inherit goodness given to us from God. She talks about the ways in which we are less than human when we do not choose the good and the ways that our free will is supposed to help us choose the good.
References:Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses by Dr. Jean-Claude Larchet
Eyes to See
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
Christy by Catherine Marshall
Live Recording Details:
When: March 26th, 4 PM PST
Where: Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church in Sherman Oaks, California
Please email us to RSVP: whatgodisnotpodcast@gmail.com
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Today we're joined by special guest Pauline Meert. Pauline is the co-founder of Sophia Montessori Academy in Denver, Colorado. Pauline talks about some practical suggestions of engaging kids in church, how our expectations should change for the children based on their age, and why we should bring our kids to church.
References:Mass Chaos - previous episode on Catholic Stuff You Should Know
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Contact Pauline: info@sophiamontessori.com
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This week Mother Natalia talks about ways she's encountered God and His joy, despite going through a very hard time in her life. She talks about her grandmother's funeral and how that impacted her and her family, and she vulnerably talks about her prayer life and her candid prayers.
References:
SoCal Byzantine Catholic Day Retreat
Natalia - Movie about Mother Natalia's Life Profession
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In today's episode Father Michael reflects on homilies for our pre-Lenten gospels, Zacchaeus Sunday and the Sunday of the Publican and the Pharisee. The homilies are ones he's given as well as homilies given by other priests.
References:Byzantine Gospel Reflections
Searching for the Searcher - previous episode on Zacchaeus
Fr. John Kachuba's Last Homily for Meatfare Sunday
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Today we're joined by special guest, Hannah Crane. Hannah is one of Mother Natalia's spiritual daughters. Hannah talks with honesty about the reality of living a holy marriage and what it's like to raise children.
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Today's episode was recorded at SEEK23. This week we're joined by special guest, Cameron Fradd, from the Among the Lilies podcast. Fr. Michael and Cameron discuss how Cameron continues to learn what it means to be “child-like” through the raising of her children, as well as sharing some heart-wrenchingly beautiful stories of God’s goodness in the midst of fear and suffering.
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On today's episode Mother Natalia takes a listener question on Ecumenism. We talk about some practicalities around ecumenism and the good desire for unity with others outside the Catholic faith. Mother Natalia also talks about the need for compassion as we interact with others, not just with those who are visibly suffering, but also with those whose pain and struggle are hidden.
References:Christ the Eternal Tao by Hieromonk Damascene
Mother Natalia and Father Michael Out and About:Part two of Mother Natalia's episode with Dr. Greg dropped yesterday:
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In today's episode Mother Natalia walks through two questions she's been reflecting on and challenges us to think about these same questions. At the very end she gives us homework - a third question to consider!
References:
John 1:34
John 4:1-42 (the woman at the well)
John 4: 39-42
Matt 3:17
John 5:6
Mother Natalia and Father Michael Out and About
- Mother Natalia was recently on the Being Human podcast. She recorded two episodes with Dr. Greg, and the first episode dropped yesterday. Be sure to check back next week for part two!
- Father Michael was recently on the Barbatus Catholic Podcast. Check it out!
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This week we’re back with another episode recorded at SEEK23! This week Fr. Michael is joined by special guests Joseph and Cesca O’Loughlin. They talk about truth and beauty found in the church and Jesus, and how it is our job to show that truth and beauty to those seeking Jesus.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Travis Crotty. Fr. Travis was recently named vocational director for the Diocese of Sioux City, as well as the chaplain of Bishop Heelan Catholic High School in Sioux City.
Fr. Travis joined Fr. Michael at SEEK23 to talk about vocations and how to handle a "no" in the discernment process. It's a short episode this week!
ReferencesSpiritual Friendship with Fr. Travis
Outcast Catholic
College Friendships with Shaylee O'
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This week Mother Natalia talks about neediness and how it's necessary to be needy in our relationship with God. Mother Natalia talks about areas we can be needy, imitating children in their neediness, and how our need for fulfillment is ultimately fulfilled in heaven.
ReferencesMatt 25 with James Parisi
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
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This week Fr. Michael talks about miracles, and the daily miracles that happen in our lives. He talks about the ways in which we should seek out miracles, how we can ask for them, and then how to surrender even as we’re asking for a miracle. He talks about St. Nicholas the Wonderworker and how we can ask for miracles through his name.
References:Darr Mine Disaster
The Trisagion Prayers (starts at the usual beginning prayers)
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This week we're joined by special guest, James Parisi. James is a seminarian in the diocese of Cleveland. He offers a personal reflection he's had on Matthew 25, which includes how do we see and love Jesus in the people next to us.
References:Matt 25: 31-46
Father Michael and Mother Natalia Out and AboutMother Natalia wrote a poem reflecting on love
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This week we're joined by special guest Shaylee O'Loughlin, Fr. Michael's niece! Shaylee talks about her experience as a new college student, the importance of making friends and getting a bit outside of your comfort zone, her love of music, and the importance of music within the liturgy.
References:Childlikeness - Episode from Catholic Stuff
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This week we're joined by special guest Sister Onuphria, then Olivia. She talks about one of her favorite topics, naked saints! More specifically she talks about how their nakedness can remind us of the interior stripping we should do with God, to give him everything and allow him to guide us and care for us.
ReferencesServant of God Michelle Duppong
My Elder Joseph the Hesychast by Elder Ephraim
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This week Mother Natalia talks about surrender and surrendering to God's will. She talks about the need for direct surrender instead of passive surrender, and the reality of how hard it is to surrender to His will.
ReferencesArise O God: The Gospel of Christ's Defeat of Demons, Sin, and Death by Fr. Andrew Damick
He Leadeth Me by Fr. Walter Ciszek
Sweet Surrender by John Denver
Man of God (IMDB Link)
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This week Father Michael reflects on the call from Isaiah to expand the tent, which is reflected in the Church's Synod on Synodality. We talk about how it is important to be in relationship with people, even those who are not in communion with the church. Father Michael talks about the practice of use of the narthex and how we could incorporate that back into our regular practice.
References:Isaiah 54:2
Cause for Joy Podcast
The Case for Excommunication Today by Dr. Jeff Mirus
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We're so excited to have been invited by FOCUS to record an episode ahead of SEEK23! On today's episode, Mother Natalia walks through St. John Paul II’s apostolic letter, Orientale Lumen, The Light of the East. This apostolic letter is responsible for the foundation of Christ the Bridegroom monastery, Mother Natalia’s community, so it’s near and dear to her heart. We talk about the beauty and diversity of the Eastern churches, the ultimate end-goal of unity in the churches, and the differences in worship and understanding of theology between the Eastern and Western churches. We also talk about monasticism, and St. John Paul II’s call for Eastern monasticism to flourish in the diaspora, including the United States, and how that call ultimately led to the founding of Christ the Bridegroom monastery.
References:Orientale Lumen
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We're back with part 2 of the eight evil thoughts. This week Mother Natalia covers anger, dejection/sloth, listlessness/acedia, vainglory, and pride.
References:Part One: Three of Eight Evil Thoughts
The Philokalia
Antirrhetikos (or Talking Back) by Evagrius
Time and Despondency by Nicole Roccas
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This week we talk about three of the eight evil thoughts: gluttony, lust, and avarice. Mother Natalia gives some background on how the eight evil thoughts came into the common understanding and how they relate to the seven deadly sins. From there we move into a detailed description of these thoughts and how we can see them "in action" in our lives. Mother Natalia and Father Michael talk about the difference between an evil thought and sin which may be a reaction to the thought itself.
References:Catholic Stuff You Should Know episode on 8 Evil ThoughtsThe PhilokaliaAntirrhetikos (or Talking Back) by Evagrius
Catholic Stuff You Should Know episode on Gluttony
Involuntary Sin with Fr. Maximos
A Simple House of Sts. Francis and Alphonsus
Watch the Tonsure of Dokimos Olivia
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Today we're joined by special guest, Fr. Boniface Hicks! Fr. Boniface is a Benedictine monk from St. Vincent Archabbey in Pennsylvania. In today's episode we talk about humility, both what it is and what it isn't. We talk about some practical examples of humility in action and there's some Greek and Latin review here too.
References:Word from a Poustinik: Humility
Companions of Christ Denver
Fr. Boniface's Website
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This week Father Michael talks about the wrestling and grappling with God that we must undertake daily as part of our Christian life.
References:For the Life of the World by Alexander Schmemann
Gen 32: 22 - 32
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This week Fr. Michael reflects on four saints that inspire him to holiness and persistence despite the perceived dangers or negative perceptions from the world. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia reflect on the inspiration these saints bring and how we can imitate them in our daily lives.
References:Orthodox Wisdom Podcast
Blood Sweat and Joy
Dispassion, Vulcans, and Gethsemane
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This week we're joined by special guest Matt Fradd of Pints with Aquinas. Mother Natalia talks about our online interactions and the way we perceive and interact with people online vs in-person. This topic is an extension of some of her reflection on the Bridegroom's Banquet video, so check that out if you haven't already!
ReferencesBridegroom's Banquet Videos
Patris Corde by Pope Francis
A Father's Heart Part One
A Father's Heart Part TwoTheology of Home by Carrie Gress, Noelle Mering, Megan Schrieber, and Kim BaileAwake, Not Woke by Noelle Mering
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...
This week’s episode starts as a mini topic and then becomes a full blown topic! This week Father Michael takes a listener question on vocations and talks about how we can each live out our call within the church. Father Michael and Mother Natalia talk about areas we can serve the church directly in the liturgy but then also out in the wider community.
References:Sophia Montessori Academy and their Gala
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On this week’s episode Mother Natalia talks about running and how different experiences of a run can equate to experiences in our spiritual life.
ReferencesInto Great Silence (Trailer)
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This week we have another in-person, live episode, this time with many guests! Father Michael talks about feasting and fasting, and how they're both intertwined. We have a few guests talk about memories of their favorite feasts.
ReferencesLive IG RecordingFor the Life of the World by Fr. Alexander Schmemann
Convo with a Cradle Copt
Mother Natalia and Father Michael Out and AboutMother Natalia was recently on Pints with Aquinas
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This week Mother Natalia talks about her retreat and the fruits of her retreat. She talks about how this retreat helped her learn or relearn to “just be” with Jesus, not necessarily learning anything, or having a divine revelation, but just learning to be and rest.
References:The Diary of a Russian Priest by Fr. Alexander Elchaninov
Sister Clare Crockett: Alone with Christ Alone by Sister Kristen Gardner (book)
All or Nothing: Sr. Clare Crockett (video)
Bridegroom's Banquet - the nuns of Christ the Bridegroom are incredibly grateful for the financial support given at the Bridegroom's Banquet and leading up to the banquet. You can watch their video reflection from this year's banquet here.
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This week we're joined by special guests Fr. Nathan Symeon and his wife Ali. Fr. Nathan Symeon and Ali talk about married priesthood from their own perspective and experience. They talk about the joys and struggles, and ultimately how this path they're on is the one they believe is for their sanctification and holiness.
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This week we're joined by several special guests who participated in an escape room with Mother Natalia and Father Michael. Mother Natalia reflects on how they each reacted within the escape room (one of those haunted house type ones), and how the reactions tended to break down by gender lines.
References:The Lament of Eve by Johanna Manley
Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield
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This week Mother Natalia and Father Michael are joined by two special guests, Mother Gabriella from Christ the Bridegroom Monastery and Natalie Bishay, a Coptic Orthodox since birth. Natalie shares some of the beauties of Coptic Orthodoxy, including their mentality of being servants and their process of electing men for the priesthood.
Live Episode:We're excited to announce a live episode today, Wednesday, August 24th.
Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church
5329 Sepulveda Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
Divine Liturgy will begin at 6:30 PM, followed by dinner and a live recording. A main course will be provided but please bring a side to share. Come for all or part of the event! We hope to see you there!
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia do a "reaction audio" of the canon for the Dormition of the Theotokos. They talk about the links back to the stories of the Old Testament, the paradox of Christian life that's talked about in the canon, and the overall beauty of the prayers.
Live Episode:We're excited to announce a live episode next Wednesday, August 24th.
Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church
5329 Sepulveda Blvd, Sherman Oaks, CA 91411
Divine Liturgy will begin at 6:30 PM, followed by dinner and a live recording. A main course will be provided but please bring a side to share. Come for all or part of the event! We hope to see you there!
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Fr. Michael uses Aristotle's writings to talk about the three types of friend in preparation for an article he's writing on friendship. He talks about the three types of friends, examples of how those friendships can be seen in action, and how we see friendship growing.
ReferencesWylde Works
Nichomachean Ethics by AristotleLeaning In - Episode with Libby on Fasting
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Homework! John 15: 4-17
Spiritual Friendship
Denver Companions of Christ
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week we're joined by special guest, Fr. Travis! In today's episode, Mother Natalia reflects on Romans 12 where St. Paul describes the marks of a true Christian. Mother Natalia talks about some practicalities in interacting with others, those that are interested in our true Catholic selves and those that aren't.
ReferencesFr. Travis' Podcast: Outcast Catholic
Romans 12: 9 - 21
Wisdom in the World (but not of it)
Letter to Diognetus
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Fr. Michael recaps his recent time in the Holy Land where he was the chaplain for a 10 day pilgrimage. He talks about the areas they traveled, where the Lord spoke to him in prayer, and being inspired by the people he encountered on the trip.
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Father Michael talks about the difference between men and women, the wholistic beauty of the human person, and how Mary epitomizes everything which is good and beautiful about women. It's an interesting one!
ReferencesThe Final Homily
Gates of Fire by Steven Pressfield
The Face of God by Archbishop Joseph Raya
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Mother Natalia uses a reflection from Bishop John Michael Botean about work as her inspiration for today's episode. Mother Natalia reflects on work, both what it is and what it is not. She uses quotes from the Church Fathers to help our understanding, and gives practical examples of how to live a life more focused on God and less focused on work.
References:The Endow Podcast
Episode with Father Deacon Jonathan - Ontology and Image, Likeness and Destiny
What Leisure is Not with Mother Gabriella
Babette's Feast (Trailer)
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week we're joined by Fr. Maximos of Holy Resurrection Monastery. Fr. Maximos talks about how "the East" defines involuntary sin, and what that can look like practically in the confessional. There's a great discussion about healing and presenting yourself to the divine healer in confession.
References:Fr. Maximos' thesisBrief video, Fr. Maximos on Orientale Lumen Television
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Mother Natalia uses a homily given by Bishop Malesic of the Diocese of Cleveland as her inspiration for a topic. She talks about living in a society where there is always an opportunity to be photographed or videoed, and how that can remind us that all our actions are known by The One and will eventually come to light for all of us.
References:Video of ordination - homily starts around 26 minute markExamination of Conscience for FOCUS Missionaries
Luke 12: 1-3
Letter to Diognetus
Diary of a Russian Priest
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thanks for your generosity!
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This week we're joined by special guests Libby and Sandy! They're both Roman Catholics who talk about embracing the Byzantine fast for the first time. We hear about their joys, struggles, and how they learned to integrate the fast with prayer. It's a worthwhile listen, especially while we're still in the Apostles' Fast.
References:The Angelic Tradition by Father EphraimThe Lenten Triodion by Archimandrite Kallistos Ware
For the Life of the World by Fr. Alexander Schmemann
What Leisure is Not with Mother Gabriella
Perelandra by C.S. Lewis
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Mother Gabriella joins us to talk to us about leisure. She uses the book Leisure by Josef Pieper as her jumping off point, and talks about what leisure is and what it is not. We learn how to rest and how that's different than vegging out. It's a thoughtful conversation that will stick with you!
References:Leisure: The Basis of Culture by Josef Pieper
Into Great Silence
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thank you for your generosity!
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This week Mother Natalia talks about a book she's reading, The Diary of a Russian Priest, and inspiration she's received from it. The discussion covers a variety of topics including wearing masks to hide our true selves, finding inner peace, vocations, and our conscience.
References:The Diary of a Russian Priest by Fr. Alexander Elchaninov
Poverty vs Destitution
Eyes to See
Previous videos from the Bridegroom's Banquet
Bridegroom's Banquet - the monastery's annual fundraiser is Saturday, September 10th. All details can be found here, including a link to register to attend in-person, and a link for donations if you can't attend in-person. Thanks for your generosity!
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We're back with part two of our "meet the parents" series. This week Fr. Michael interviews Mother Natalia's parents, Barbara and Dave. They talk about how both of them have benefited from Mother Natalia's vocation, and how they've left something behind but have gained so much more.
ReferencesFather-son Michael
The Face of God by Archbishop Joseph M. Raya
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This week Fr. Michael walks through three prayers said over adults who are entering the church who also are being baptized. Fr. Michael and Mother Natalia talk about the uniqueness of the prayers and how they call both the catechumen and the congregation to faithful living. We are reminded that Satan gets our sins!
References:Catechumen Catherine
Byzantine Baptism
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This week we have special guests! Bob and Marie O'Loughlin join us for an interview from Mother Natalia. Bob and Marie first introduce each other and we hear a little about how they met. Bob and Marie talk about what it was like when they knew Fr. Michael wanted to be a priest, the blessings they've received through his priesthood, and some of their memories. It's a touching interview with just a few tears!
References:Hundredfold by Sr. Agnes Therese, T.O.R.
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We're doing back to back episodes where Mother Natalia reflects on words she received while she led a poustinia with Wyoming Catholic. On this episode she talks about having an awareness of self.
References:Word from a Poustinik: Motherhood
Poustinia by Catherine Doherty
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We're doing back to back episodes where Mother Natalia reflects on words she received while she led a poustinia with Wyoming Catholic. This episode she talks about motherhood, the graces she receives from giving spiritual direction, and how God can work through any circumstance to reach us where we're at.
References:Poustinia by Catherine Doherty
Madonna House
Catechumen Catherine
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We're so excited to celebrate episode 100. We had a live recording where were joined by some listeners for vespers, dinner, and the recording. In this episode you get a bit of a behind the scenes look at "how the sausage is made" and then we dive into listener questions. Thank you so much for your support. We really appreciate it!
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This week Fr. Michael uses the Letter to Diognetus (chapters 5 and 6) as a jumping off point for our episode this week, inspired by Deacon Michael Hyatt's episode on this same topic. Fr. Michael talks about the paradox of being in the world but not of it.
References:40 Days with the Church Fathers
Christ the Bridegroom Monastery's Typikon
St Mary of Jesus Crucified - she was canonized a saint May 17, 2015
Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton
Poustinia by Catherine Doherty
Mother Natalia and Father Michael's presentation on God with Us Online
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This week we continue our "Meet the Nun" series with Mother Iliana! Mother Iliana talks about suffering and sickness, and how we encounter God in our suffering. She also talks about visiting the sick and how allowing others to visit you when you're sick helps them fulfill Jesus' command to visit the sick.
Mother Iliana wrote a blog post about her reactions to the war in Ukraine and recognizing that Jesus is with her and the people in Ukraine. It's a worthwhile read and a good bookend to what you'll listen to in today's episode.
References:Matt 25: 31-46
Romans 8:28
Mother Teresa - movie shot by Sir Richard Attenborough on Mother Teresa
The Hiding Place by Corri ten Boom
Always Good by Andrew Peterson
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This week Fr. Michael uses Isaiah 10:15 as a jumping off point to talk about recognizing God's hand at work in everything, even in the things that we're good at. Many times we're aware of the work God is doing in our life in relation to "bad things" or things we're working on, but we may not always be aware of the work God is doing in our life for things that come naturally to us.
References:Isaiah 10:15For the Life of the World by Alexander Schmemann
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This week we're joined by Fr. Jeffrey Dufresne who gave a homily on sin that inspired Mother Natalia! Mother Natalia talks about sin as a sickness, how this sickness can spread to others, and how we can seek healing for our sin.
References:The Calling of St. Matthew by Carravagio
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Trigger warning - some discussion on the realities of the Holocaust.
This week Fr. Michael talks about having a personal relationship with Jesus after hearing a talk from Monsignor Shea at SEEK2022. He talks about obedience, sin, and death, and how those all impact a personal relationship with God.
We've also got a mini-topic this week suggested from a patron on our Patreon group. This week's topic is cultivating a spirit of gratitude.
References:Night by Elie Wiesel [or Darkness or Dark as Fr. Michael called it. :-)]
News:We'd love to have you join us for a live recording of the show, Tuesday, March 29th, at Holy Resurrection Parish in Euclid, Ohio. Vespers begin at 5:30, potluck vegan dinner at 6:15ish, and recording at 7ish. You're welcome to join us for part of all the event, no RSVP needed. Please bring a vegan dish to share.
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This week Mother Natalia walks through the differences between destitution and poverty following a homework assignment she gave one of her spiritual daughters. Mother talks about how poverty is the lack of any barriers between us and God, and how that should be our long-term goal. Mother Natalia talks about the poverty Adam and Eve had before the fall.
Mother Natalia challenges us to approach the Lord with trepidation and ask Him to show us where we're living in a destitute manner.
References:Christ the Bridegroom Typikon
The Philokalia
The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis
News:We'd love to have you join us for a live recording of the show, Tuesday, March 29th, at Holy Resurrection Parish in Euclid, Ohio. Vespers begin at 5:30, potluck vegan dinner at 6:15ish, and recording at 7ish. You're welcome to join us for part of all the event, no RSVP needed. Please bring a vegan dish to share.
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This week Fr. Michael shares his vocation story. He starts early - with his grandparents - and then makes his way to childhood and college years. Fr. Michael shares how the Lord worked in his life to show him the peace and joy he'd receive as a priest.
References:Father Michael on Chris Stefanick's show
Father Michael's vocation episode on Catholic Stuff
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This week Mother Natalia talks about Zaccheus, the searching he did to find Jesus, and how that searching is in response to Jesus searching for him. This is the same in our lives. We are searching for Jesus as a response to Him searching for us. Mother Natalia talks about how Zaccheus was "all in" with Jesus and how that's a model for her life, including in her response to hospitality.
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We were featured on SEEK in December and we're dropping the episode here in case you missed us! Father Michael and Mother Natalia share stories of their friendship, how SEEK played a part of their lives, and then talk about Divine Liturgy.
SEEK is an annual retreat put on by Focus the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. SEEK 22 is wrapped, but put this on your radar for SEEK 23.
References:The Orthodox Study Bible
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Episodes on the Mystery of Crowning with Fr. Joel Barstad
- Part 1
- Part 2
- Part 3
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This week we’re joined by special guest Casey Dail. Casey talks about her experience as a foster mom and the balance she has to practice of attachment and detachment. She links some of her experiences to the ecstasy experienced in the cross.
Casey recently started a coaching practice. If you’re interested in working with her or would like to know more about her experience as a foster mom, you can email her (caseydail@hotmail.com) or message her on Facebook.
References:Hosea 11:3
Abandonment to Divine Providence by Jean-Pierre de Caussade
From Christendom to Apostolic Mission: Pastoral Strategies for an Apostolic Age by University of Mary Press
A Hidden Life (Trailer)
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This week Father Michael talks about the reality of loneliness within our vocation. We talk about relying on God instead of others to satisfy loneliness.
References:From Whence Mother Natalia CameThe Space Trilogy Series by C.S. Lewis
- Book 1: Out of the Silent Planet
- Book 2: Perelandra
- Book 3: That Hideous Strength
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
Sobornost by Catherine Doherty
Urodivoi by Catherine Doherty
The Postal Service: Give Up
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This week Mother Natalia shares her vocation story up to the decision to enter the monastery.
References:Mother Natalia has been on two episodes with Matt Fradd
- Episode One: Why Sr. Natalia Become a Nun
- Episode Two: Eastern Catholicism w/ Mother Natalia
An Explanation by Luke Spehar
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This week's episode is long but so worth it! We're happy to welcome to the podcast special guest Melkite Joe. Melkite Joe shares a bit of his life story that led to his discernment to enter Holy Transfiguration Monastery in California.
If you would like to donate to Melkite Joe's fundraiser, you can find all the details here.
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This week Mother Natalia talks about judgement. She gives some practical examples of judgement and the way it causes a block or barrier between herself and the person as well as herself and God.
References:
Wounded by Love by Elder Porphyrius
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Father Michael uses two Gospel passages along with some prayer requests in his life to talk about unanswered prayer and how our unanswered prayers unite us with our forefathers.
References:Hidden Sins, Perceivable Virtue (The episode inspired by The Picture of Dorian Gray)
The Year of Grace of the Lord
Luke 14: 16 - 24 - parable about the wedding banquet, read 2 Sundays before Christmas
Luke 15: 11 - 32 - the parable of the Prodigal (Reckless) Son
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This week Mother Natalia talks about how loving people shows us the love of God, and that in loving, both the the lover and the beloved receive fruit. The ability both to give love and receive love are because God gives us those abilities. In loving each other we love God, and that love can heal us. Growing in holiness helps us to grow in love.
References:The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St John Climacus
The Philokalia
Christ our Pascha
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This week we're joined by special guest Catherine! Catherine is a catechumen at the Proto-Cathedral of St. Mary's where Fr. Michael is pastor. Catherine talks about her journey to becoming a catechumen. She shares how truth and beauty helped her come to the realization of God’s existence.
References:Video Parody of Adele's Hello with Christ the Bridegroom Monastery and the Mercedarian Sisters
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Measurement by Paul Lockhart
Orthodoxy by G.K. Chesterton
The Catholic Church and Conversion by G.K. Chesterton
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This week Mother Natalia shares some reflections she had on poustinia about worry and being present.
References:Matt 6: 24 - 24
The Practice of the Presence of God by Brother LawrenceThe Monastery's video on poverty: Be Poor with Me
Abandonment to Divine Providence by Jeanne-Pierre de Caussade
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We're back with another episode on the Mystery of Crowning, with special guest Fr. Joel Barstad.
References:Mystery of Crowning: Part 1
Mystery of Crowning: Part 2
Behold the Bridegroom
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This week we meet Beth from the media team. Beth talks about her personal vocational discernment and not fearing the unknown.
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This week we continue our discussion on the Mystery of Crowning with Fr. Joel Barstad. We talk about the Gospel (John 2: 1 ‑11) and Epistle (Ephesians 5: 5:20‑33) which are read at the Mystery of Crowning.
References:Mystery of Crowning: Part 1
The Power and the Glory by Graham Greene
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We're joined this week by Mother Cecilia. Mother Cecilia is one of the original founders of Christ the Bridegroom Monastery, and has been at the monastery for 12 years. Silence is a topic near and dear to her heart, and in this episode she talks about what silence is not, in an effort for us to understand what silence is.
References:TheSilence of God by Andrew Peterson
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This week Father Michael and Mother Natalia do an on-the-spot Lectio Divina of Psalm 16 (Septuagint )/Psalm 17 (Vulgate).
We are grateful to everyone who donated to the Monastery fundraiser this past weekend. The nuns released a video called Be Poor with Me: Reflections on Poverty which was shown at the fundraiser. Happy viewing!
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This week Mother Natalia talks about graces she received during her honeymoon, continuing on the graces from her life profession.
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This week we're joined by special guest, Andrew Whaley. Andrew is the founder of Calix, an organization focusing on interactions with the unchurched and dechurched. We talk about positive interactions in evangelization, the truth in beauty, and how beauty can bring others to Christ.
References:Calix - Andrew's main website
Disarming Beauty: Essays on Faith, Truth, and Freedom by Julián Carrón
Alpha Catholic
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Father Michael and Mother Natalia Out and AboutFather Michael was on the most recent episode of Catholic Stuff You Should Know.
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We were so elated after Mother Natalia's life profession and had a live episode out in Burton, Ohio. We shared this via Instagram but also recorded it for our non-Instagram followers. Happy listening!
If you want to watch this episode, check out the video on our Instagram page.
Episodes that talk about the Life Profession Divine Liturgy:Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Part Four
If you missed Mother Natalia's Life Profession you can watch the recording up on the monastery's Facebook page.
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This week's episode concludes our review of the monastic life profession series.
Previous Episodes:Part One
Part Two
Part Three
If you missed Mother Natalia's Life Profession you can watch the recording up on the monastery's Facebook page.
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We're joined this week by special guest Father Deacon Jonathan Deane. He uses the Trisagion Prayer as a jumping off point in the discussion. We discuss sin, having the image of God but losing the likeness of God, and our ultimate destiny.
References:Light for Life Series by God with Us Publications.
- Part One - The Mystery Believed
- Part Two - The Mystery Celebrated
- Part Three - The Mystery Lived
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
Christ Our Pascha
Becoming Human: Meditations on Christian Anthropology in Word and Image by Fr. John Behr
The Therapy of Spiritual Illnesses: An Introduction to the Ascetic Tradition of the Orthodox Church
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The life profession already happened but we're still walking through the life profession ceremony. If you missed the first two episodes you can find Parts One and Two here! And today we're joined by special guest, Fr. Steve Flynn.
If you missed Mother Natalia's Life Profession you can watch the recording up on the monastery's Facebook page.
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We're back with special guest, Fr. Joel Barstad, this time talking about the Mystery of Crowning. This is part one of at least two, as we barely got into the mystery of crowning in this episode! We reflect on marriage and some of the day to day interactions between a husband and wife.
References:National Catholic Register article on the Rite of Betrothal in the Latin Rite
Episodes on Patris Corde: A Father's Heart Part One and Part Two
If you missed Mother Natalia's Life Profession you can watch the recording up on the monastery's Facebook page.
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This is part two of two! Sister Natalia walks through the prayers that are said in a monastic life profession liturgy. She reflected on the liturgy during her life profession retreat earlier, and gives us some insight into her journal entries from her retreat.
Part One can be found here.
Also, check out a written reflection from Sister Natalia on Life Profession.
Sister Natalia's Life Profession is September 26th! The Monastery will be livestreaming the event from their Facebook page.
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Father Michael and Sister Natalia Out and AboutSister Natalia was on Matt Fradd's podcast, Pints with Aquinas. Check it out!
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This is part one of two! Sister Natalia walks through the prayers that are said in a monastic life profession liturgy. She reflected on the liturgy during her life profession retreat earlier, and gives us some insight into her journal entries from her retreat.
Sister Natalia's Life Profession is September 26th! The Monastery will be livestreaming the event from their Facebook page.
References:The Mountain of Silence by Kyriacos C. MarkidesRegistration for the Bridegroom's Banquet is open!
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Parental warning - adult content discussed. Trigger warning - sexual assault and rape discussed.
This week Fr. Michael reflects on the book The Picture of Dorian Gray and how it illustrates the impact that sin has in our lives.
References:The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde
Matt 5:27 - 28
The Porn Myth by Matt FraddRegistration for the Bridegroom's Banquet is open!
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Sister Natalia and Father Michael recorded an in person episode on the feast of the Transfiguration! In this episode they focus on the Transfiguration account in Matthew and talk about the temptation for us to stay on Mount Tabor, some of the symbolism represented in Matthew's account, and the need for us to transform as a result of our encounters with Christ.
References:
We have a full IG TV recording up on our Instagram page that features some banter and Q/A before and after this episode. Check out our page if you want to watch the full recording.
Matt 17: 1 - 13
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Sister Natalia is fresh off poustinia and reflects on peace. "Nothing else matters except being with Jesus and trying to rest in that knowledge and trying not to be swayed by all the other thoughts coming to me."
References:The Final Homily
Word from a Poustinik: Hope
John 16:33
Quotes from St Seraphim including this one: "Acquire a spirit of peace and thousands of souls around you will be saved."
Save the Date for the Bridegroom's Banquet, Nov 13!
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This week Fr. Michael talks about demons and their interactions in our everyday life. We hear about some of his experiences at Franciscan, and learn how we can be on the lookout to repel demons and evil thoughts.
References:The Life of St. Anthony by AthanasiusThe Philokalia - Volume 1
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Sister Natalia walks through some of her favorite passages from the Philokalia, a collection of writings from some of the Church Fathers on how to live as a good monk or nun. "The view in the East is that everyone is called to live as a monk or nun, to the degree which they are able in their vocation," and Sister Natalia wanted to share her favorite passages with everyone!
References:The Philokalia - Volume 1Fr. Michael's episode on Catholic Stuff - Gluttony as a Gateway Sin
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This week we're talking about Byzantine Baptism, everything leading up to the chrismation. Fr. Michael reads through some of the prayers said during the Holy Mystery.
Father Michael and Sister Natalia Out and About
Catholic Stuff You Should Know recently reposted an episode where Fr. Michael talks about Byzantine Marriage. Check it out!
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This week Fr. Michael talks about Gregory the Theologian and how he came to know and understand his vocation. He and Sister Natalia talk about the call to holiness and how the people in the church can help encourage men and women to priesthood and religious life.
References:Gregory the Theologian's Second Oration
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Sister Natalia and Father Michael continue their discussion from last week about fatherhood. Part One of this topic can be found here. In this episode, Sister Natalia walks through some of her favorite quotes from Pope Francis' apostolic letter, Patris Corde, and then relates them to her life experiences, especially her life experiences with Father Michael.
References:Part OnePatris Corde by Pope Francis
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This week Sister Natalia gives us insight into her reflection on fatherhood and tenderness. She and Father Michael provide examples of how they see fatherhood practically lived out in their day to day lives.
References:Patris Corde by Pope Francis
The Ladder of Divine Ascent by St. John Climacus
My Elder Joseph the Hesychast by Elder Ephraim
Wounded by Love by St Porphyrios
That Man is You
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This week we're joined by special guest Valeria Salgado. Valeria is a Latin revert who discovered Father Michael's parish and has been participating in Divine Liturgy there. This week Father Michael and Sister Natalia answer some questions on the rites of initiation and the differences between the East and the West. Additionally they talk about the process of changing rites.
References:Connect with Valeria on Instagram and TikTok
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This week we're talking about the Saint of the Day (less three days), St. Nathaniel! St. Nathaniel is Sister Natalia's patronal saint. There's also a great discussion at the beginning of the podcast about spiritual direction.
References:Lord of the World by Robert Hugh Benson
Father Elijah by Michael O'Brien
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This week Fr. Michael talks about some key takeaways he's learned after reading a book that reminds us of what we sing (or say) when we sing "Heavenly Comforter, Spirit of Truth, everywhere present and filling all things.
References:Everywhere Present: Christianity in a One-Storey Universe by Fr. Stephen Freeman
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We're joined at the very beginning by Father Nathan Symeon's daughter, Budsy. Such a fun conversation. Father Nathan is the parochial vicar at Father Michael's parish. Then we discuss seeing beauty in the people around us, despite their sins or despite our ability to see the beauty 'at a glance'.
References:Interior Freedom by Fr. Jacques Philippe
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Part 2! The monastery has a new member of the community! Sister Natalia and Father Michael talk about the service for the entrance of a dokimos, specifically Intern Olivia! We've broken this up into two episodes.
References:Last week's episode
Ladder of Divine Ascent by St John Climacus
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The monastery has a new member of the community! Sister Natalia and Father Michael talk about the service for the entrance of a dokimos, specifically Intern Olivia! We've broken this up into two episodes.
Also, it's our one year anniversary! Thanks for being a listener!
References:The Year of Grace of Our Lord by Lev Gillet
An overview of the different steps in the vocation process at Christ the Bridegroom Monastery
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A few weeks ago Father Michael and Sister Natalia were on Instagram Live. We recorded that session for our general podcast listeners. If you want to see this "in person", we've saved the video up on IGTV.
References:Our episode on The Jesus Prayer
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Who's keeping track of consecutive in-person recordings? We're at four now!
This week Sister Natalia talks about lessons she's learned from her encounters with children and how those encounters lead her to reflect on her relationship with God.
References:The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
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Another in-person episode. This week Father Michael and Sister Natalia talk about putting forth effort to pray during Divine Liturgy.
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Another week of in person recording! What a blessing.
This week Sister Natalia reflects on some things she learned during her retreat, including how we can get in the way of the work God wants to do in our lives.
References:How to Profit From Your Faults by Claude-Joseph Tissot
Homily on the Healing of the Paralytic by Alexander Schmemann
Litany of Trust
Litany of Humility
Lux Catholic - iPhone
Lux Catholic - Google Play Follow and Contact Us!
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Sister Natalia and Father Michael are in person this week! In this episode they talk about what it's like to be out and about as a nun and priest and the encounters they have which they only have because they're dressed as a nun or priest.
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This week we're joined by Fr. Joel Barstad who talks about his thoughts around the Cappadocian House Document.
References:Cappadocian House Document - written by Fr. Joel Barstad
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Fr. Michael and Sister Natalia talk about the beauty and necessity of community. Fr. Michael has a realization on the differences in people with structured personalities vs people with unstructured personalities.
References:Communion and Liberation - movement founded by Fr. Giussani and Fr. Carron in Milan, Italy
Cappadocian House Document - written by Fr. Joel Barstad
20 Answers: Eastern Catholicism by Fr. Daniel Dozier
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
A few weeks ago Sister Natalia read a poem she wrote while on poustinia. Here's a link to that poem if you want to read it and pray with it.
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Happy Bright Week! This week Sister Natalia walks through the Gospel for Thomas Sunday. We talk about Thomas' unbelief, our unbelief, and asking for grace and strength to believe.
References:John 20:19 - 31, Gospel for Thomas Sunday
The Bible and the Holy Fathers for Orthodox
The Reed of God by Caryll Houselander
Humane Vitae
Ancient Christian Commentary - John 11 - 21 edited by Joel C. Elowsky
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This week Father Michael talks about a theme he's picked up in the Sunday Gospels of the Great Fast, and in this episode he walks through Mark 9:17 - 31.
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This week Sister Natalia talks about her reflection on humility while she was on poustinia.
Father Michael and Sister Natalia Out and AboutHope in the Desert: Sr. Natalia spoke at St Joseph Byzantine Catholic Church
Link to Sister Natalia's poem
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Father Michael picks up where Sister Natalia left off with the Prayer of St Ephraim.
References:First Episode 1 covering the Prayer of St EphraimPrayer of St Ephraim - there are various versions of this prayer throughout, so you may find different translations online.
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This week we're talking about the Prayer of St Ephraim, and walk through the specifics of the prayer with suggestions of what to look for in your life to put the prayer in action.
References:Prayer of St Ephraim - there are various versions of this prayer throughout, so you may find different translations online.
Proto-Cathedral of St Mary FB Page for Livestreaming of Matins
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This week we're going back in time a few weeks and talking about the saints of the day of recording, February 11th: St Charalampus and Venerable Prochorus the Orach Eater.
References:Link to Father Michael's guidance on the Great Fast to his parishionersProto-Cathedral of St Mary FB Page for Livestreaming of Matins
The Prologue of Ohrid
Erin Planned
Shrine of Our Lady of Mariapoch
Little Women
Father Michael and Sister Natalia Out and About
Fr Michael was on National Catholic Register's Register Radio
Sister Natalia and Sister Petra were on yesterday's Pints with Jack. Check it out!
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This week Sister Natalia shares a reflection from her recent time in poustinia, and talks about a word that she heard during her time in poustinia.
References:Poustinia by Catherine Doherty
Leadership and Self Deception by The Arbinger Institute
Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
Christ the Bridegroom's Writeup on Poustinias Follow and Contact Us!
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This week Sister Natalia and Father Michael talk about experiences of hearing God in prayer, how they knew the voice they were hearing was of the Lord, and how that can be different for each individual.
References:Sober Intoxication of the Spirit by Raniero Cantalamessa
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It's Question and Answer time! We cover a variety of topics in this week's episode. If you've got more questions send them our way: Email, Facebook, Instagram!
References:Books:The Sayings of the Desert Fathers: The Alphabetical Collection Translated by Benedicta Ward
The Art of Prayer Edited by Kallistos Ware
The Paintings: Father Michael suggests that you zoom in on the faces in both paintings.
The Assumption or The Dormition, a fresco by Juan de Jesus Munera Ochoa in the Cathedral of San Pedro de los Milagros (Saint Peter of the Miracles) in Antioquia, Colombia.
Peter and John Running to the Tomb by Eugène Burnand, currently at the Musée d'Orsay
Prayer Written by Sister Natalia
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This week Father Michael and Sister Natalia reflect on living without. We're often mistaken on what we "need", what we can do without, and what we can't do without.
References:Forgiveness Vespers - Page 21 of the Order of Vespers for the Great Fast
Summary of 8 Evil Thoughts defined by Evagrius
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Father Travis joined us for a second episode. This week we're talking about spiritual friendship, how our friendship with each other can build each other up and draw us closer to Christ.
References:From Christendom to Apostolic Mission by University of MaryOutcast Catholic with Fr. Travis and Fr. Shane Deman
Companions of Christ, Denver
Quote from Evagrios: "When suffering from the fever of unclean passions, my intellect afflicted with shameful thoughts, I have often been restored to health by your letters, as I used to be by the counsel of our great guide and teacher."
Quote from St John Chrystostom on Friendship: "He who loves, ought so to love, that if he were asked even for his soul or life, and it were possible, he would not refuse it. I do not say, 'if he were asked,' but so that he would even run to present him with the gift. For nothing, nothing can be sweeter than such love; nothing will fall out there that is grievous."
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It's finally here! The most shouted-out person on the podcast joins Sister Natalia and Father Michael for two episodes. This week we're wrapping up the series on the Byzantine Divine Liturgy. The people receive Communion and are sent forth on mission.
References:Outcast Catholic with Fr. Travis and Fr. Shane Deman
Links for previous episodes on the Divine Liturgy:
Part 1: Preparing to Prepare
Part 2: Liturgy of the Catechumens
Part 3: Great Entrance
Part 4: Creed and Anaphora
Part 5: Epiclesis
Part 6: Preparation for Communion
Part 7: Getting Closer to Communion
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"We all experience time, and we all get to the future, but when we're only focused on the future as something that needs to be attained, then we're failing to live in this present moment." That's an episode quote from Sister Natalia. This week we're talking about time, the poverty of time in the monastic life, and watching the way we spend our time. We're joined this week by Talka (Natalia).
References:The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
Pints with Jack - podcast currently going through The Screwtape Letters. We were on episode 4 of this season!
The Mountain of Silence: A Search for Orthodox Spirituality by Kyriacos C. Markides
He Leadeth Me by Walter J. Ciszek
Do you listen to Catholic Stuff You Should Know? If not, check out last week's episode featuring Father Michael!
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It's part 7 of our review of the Divine Liturgy, and we're still preparing for Communion, albeit we're a little closer this week!
Links for previous episodes on the Divine Liturgy:
Part 1: Preparing to Prepare
Part 2: Liturgy of the Catechumens
Part 3: Great Entrance
Part 4: Creed and Anaphora
Part 5: Epiclesis
Part 6: Preparation for Communion
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This week we're talking about a few saints and feast days the nuns at Christ the Bridegroom felt more people should know about.
References:
St. Mary of Egypt
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It's part 6 of our review of the Divine Liturgy. This week we're preparing for Communion.
Links for previous episodes on the Divine Liturgy:
Part 1: Preparing to Prepare
Part 2: Liturgy of the Catechumens
Part 3: Great Entrance
Part 4: Creed and Anaphora
Part 5: Epiclesis
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This week we're talking about examining your day-to-day life and interactions to identify what brings you closer to Christ, and training ourselves to want more and more of Him in our daily life. Also, we have a guest appearance from the producer and editor of the Created and Called podcast.
References:
Created and Called Podcast
The Daily Examen
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Continuing on with part 5 of our walk-through of the Divine Liturgy. This week we're looking at the Epiclesis
Links for previous episodes on the Divine Liturgy:
Part 1: Preparing to Prepare
Part 2: Liturgy of the Catechumens
Part 3: Great Entrance
Part 4: Creed and Anaphora
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Time for part 4! Father Michael continues his walk-through of the Divine Liturgy with the Creed and Anaphora
Links for previous episodes on the Divine Liturgy:
Part 1: Preparing to Prepare
Part 2: Liturgy of the Catechumens
Part 3: Great Entrance
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Philip's Fast started a week ago! This week we're talking about practical ways to prepare for Christmas.
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This week we're looking at the types of the Theotokos found in the Old Testament. And intern Olivia is featured this week too!
ReferencesThe Theotokos in Scripture and Hymnography
Summary of Akathist Hymn: Laudation of the Theotokos
The Akathist Hymn and Small Compline
Thank you for your generosity at the Bridegroom's Banquet. The monastery raised a record amount and donations are still coming in. More details on the donation plans can be found here.
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Time for part 3! Father Michael continues his walk-through of the Divine Liturgy with the Great Entrance.
If you've missed part 1 you can find it here: Preparing to Prepare
And part 2 is here: Liturgy of the Catechumens
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This week we break down the meaning of "Christ the Bridegroom" and talk about the icon of Christ the Bridegroom. Bonus - you get to hear Sister Natalia sing!
References:Jesus the Bridegroom: the Greatest Love Story Ever Told by Brant Pitre
Christ the Bridegroom Monastery Typikon
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Check us out on Pints with Jack
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Time for part 2! Father Michael continues his walk-through of the Divine Liturgy with the Liturgy of the Catechumens.
If you've missed part 1 you can find it here: Preparing to Prepare
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This week we're talking about obedience and all that it entails in the Christian life.
References:
Christ the Bridegroom Typikon (the rule of life at Christ the Bridegroom Monastery)
Blood Brothers by Archbishop Elias Chacour
Father Elijah by Michael D. O'Brien
Register for the virtual Bridegroom's Banquet, the annual fundraiser for Christ the Bridegroom monastery. Your donations will be matched! Thanks in advance for your generosity.
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This week we walk through the first 1/3 of the Divine Liturgy. It's "...the hidden part, or the secret part of the Divine Liturgy that most people don't see." Or as Sister Natalia says "...everything leading up to before Divine Liturgy starts."
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You've got questions, we've got answers! This week we answer questions you've sent our way.
Register for the virtual Bridegroom's Banquet, the annual fundraiser for Christ the Bridegroom monastery. Your donations will be matched! Thanks in advance for your generosity.
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Join us for a virtual tour of a Byzantine church.
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Sister Natalia and Father Michael record in person again! This week Sister Natalia emphasizes the importance of edifying conversations by sharing the story of a dear friend.
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This week we reflect on topics covered in previous episodes.
Death in the Shadows by Paul McCusker. Second in the Father Gilbert series
Hope and Justin
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Christ the Bridegroom Monastery
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References:
- The Typikon Decoded by Archbishop Job Gretcha: https://svspress.com/the-typikon-decoded-an-explanation-of-byzantine-liturgical-practice/
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This week's episode features a special guest! Welcome Natalia! Not to be confused with Sister Natalia...
References:
- The Way of a Pilgrim by Anonymous: https://www.amazon.com/Way-Pilgrim-Continues-His/dp/0932727301
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We have seen the true light...
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Be not do.
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Prothesis-Liturgy as revealing and concealing God. This episode was recorded in person in Denver!
References:
- Esconomia & Eschatology: Liturgical Mystagogy in the Byzantine Prothesis Rite by Stelyios S. Muksuris: https://www.amazon.com/Economia-Eschatology-Liturgical-Mystagogy-Byzantine/dp/1935317415
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References:
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40792344-mere-christianity
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References:
- Pilgrim’s Inn by Elizabeth Goudge: https://www.amazon.com/Pilgrims-Inn-Eliot-Family-Trilogy/dp/1619700735
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References:
- The Cantata of Love by Blaise Arminjon S.J.: https://www.ignatius.com/The-Cantata-of-Love-P357.aspx
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Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/whatgodisnot)