He Leadeth Me: Recent Episodes
Jessica
When you say “yes” to something you genuinely believed God was asking of you—a mission trip, graduate school, even becoming a FOCUS missionary—what do you do when later everything feels too heavy, too complicated, or simply not what you expected?
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Fr. John Ezratty to explore the tension between commitment, freedom, and discernment through the lens of St. Ignatius of Loyola.
Together they walk through real situations missionaries and students face:
• What if I discerned something well, but now I feel overwhelmed and want to step back?
• What if I didn’t pray about a commitment beforehand—am I still bound to it?
• Can difficult circumstances be a sign that God is redirecting me?
• How do I know when perseverance is holy… and when letting go is faithful?
Drawing from Ignatian wisdom, Fr. John offers practical steps, prayerful tools, and spiritual clarity for anyone wrestling with a “yes” that suddenly feels uncertain. Whether you’re tempted to break a commitment or unsure what God is communicating through your current season, this conversation will help you discern with peace, freedom, and maturity.
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
In this episode, Kathleen and Chris Vander Woude reflect on the extraordinary life of Tom Vander Woude — a devoted husband, father, and disciple of Christ.
As Chris shares personal stories of his father, the conversation honors Tom’s quiet heroism, deep Catholic faith, and unwavering love for his family. Tom gave his life to save his son Joseph, who has Down Syndrome.
With discussions on fatherhood, faith, and pro-life convictions, this episode also explores the inspiring legacy that has led to early steps toward Tom’s potential canonization.
Chris Vander Woude is the 5th of 7 sons born to Tom and Mary Ellen Vander Woude. He has worked in Catholic education for 18 years, serving as Dean of Students and Athletic Director. Chris lives in Virginia with his wife of 18 years, Katie, and daughter Zellie.
It's no secret our world is suffering and under deep spiritual attack.
In this episode, Kathleen sits down with Brock Martin to dive into a deeply personal and spiritual conversation about the power and beauty of the Rosary. Brock shares his journey from seeing the Rosary as a routine task to embracing it as a vital devotion and spiritual weapon of the Church.
We discuss:
- Deeper Devotion: Hear Brock's personal story of a renewed love for the Rosary and how it became a powerful part of daily spiritual life.
- From Obligation to Intimacy: Honest reflections on overcoming challenges with the Rosary and moving beyond a “check-the-box” mindset.
- Mission and Prayer United: Why the Rosary is a powerful tool for missionaries — simple, repeatable, and deeply aligned with the heart of evangelization.
Brock Martin is in his 12th year as a missionary with FOCUS. He has served in various roles within FOCUS from campus missionary, Team Director, Regional Director, Sr. Director or Regional Evangelization, and currently serves as Vice President of Parish Outreach. Brock and his wife, Alisha live in Highlands Ranch, Colorado with their three daughters.
Why did Jesus sometimes say things that seem puzzling—or even contradictory—at first glance?
In this episode, Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to unpack some of the most misunderstood sayings of Jesus in Scripture. Together, we explore the deeper meaning behind His words and actions, revealing the wisdom, mercy, and divine intention that underlie them.
In this episode, Dr. Sri explains:
- John 8:6–8 – The Woman Caught in Adultery:
Why did Jesus bend down to write in the dirt—and what might He have written? - Matthew 5:39 – Turning the Other Cheek:
Does Jesus really mean we should never defend ourselves? How do we understand this teaching without confusing it with passivity or enabling abuse? - Luke 22:36–38 and 22:49–51 – The Command to Buy a Sword:
Why did Jesus first tell the disciples to arm themselves, then forbid them to use the sword? What was He really teaching about spiritual readiness and His mission? - John 20:17 – The Risen Jesus and Mary Magdalene:
Why did Jesus tell Mary not to hold on to Him after the Resurrection? What does this moment reveal about the Ascension and our relationship with Christ today? - Mark 10:18 – “Why Do You Call Me Good?”
If Jesus is God and good, why does He ask this question? What truth is He leading the rich young man—and us—to see?
Dr. Sri helps us see how each passage points us to the heart of Jesus: His divinity, His mercy, and His call to deeper discipleship.
Dr. Edward Sri is a theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS' Sr. Vice President of Apostolic Outreach. Dr. Sri has written several best-selling books and is also the presenter of several Ascension Press and Augustine Institute faith formation film series. He hosts the acclaimed podcast, "All Things Catholic" and is an adjunct professor at the Augustine Institute. He and his wife Beth reside in Littleton, Colorado. They are blessed with 8 children and one grandchild.
Scrupulosity can feel like a prison—distorting one’s image of God, sowing constant doubt, and making the spiritual life heavy instead of freeing.
In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Denis Nakkeeran, Dean of Men at St. John’s Seminary to explore the roots of scrupulosity and the path toward healing.
We discuss:
- What scrupulosity is and how it differs from OCD
- How scrupulosity distorts our image of God—and what vision of God brings healing
- Practical guidance for confessors, missionaries, and friends accompanying those who struggle
Whether you wrestle with scrupulosity yourself or walk alongside someone who does, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and hope in rediscovering a God of mercy.
Fr. Denis Nakkeeran has been ordained for 5 years and currently serves as the Dean of Men at St. John Seminary in Boston. He is a moral theologian and formator.
In 1965, there were 178,000 religious Sisters. In 2024, there were less than 35,000. In less than 60 years, the landscape of women’s religious life has dramatically changed. Can there be a revival in women’s religious vocations?
In this episode, Jessica talks with Kathleen Calvin and Sr. Jacinta Man about FOCUS’ new project to promote women’s religious vocations. Jess, Kathleen, and Sr. Jacinta discuss:
- The sharp decline in women’s religious vocations and what it means for the Church.
- How FOCUS’ new project is fostering a culture of discernment for young women.
- Practical ways listeners can support women discerning a religious vocation.
Kathleen Calvin is the Spiritual Development Team Manager. She oversees projects such as women religious initiative. Kathleen lives in Philadelphia after serving 6 years as a campus missionary in Boston and Virginia Tech.
Originally from New Jersey, Sister Jacinta Man, OP, is a Dominican Sister of St. Cecilia and currently resides at the motherhouse in Nashville. She served in the apostolate for ten years as a Catholic school elementary teacher in Tennessee, Georgia, and Ohio but now assists with vocation work for her community. Before entering the convent fifteen years ago, Sister Jacinta participated in FOCUS bible studies while a student at NYU and met the Nashville Dominicans at the 2010 FOCUS conference in Orlando. Providentially, FOCUS missionaries had a profound impact on her spiritual journey, and it is a gift for her to now be a part of the chaplaincy for FOCUS.
Have you ever wondered if spiritual direction is only for people discerning big decisions — or if lay people can really be spiritual directors?
In this episode of He Leadeth Me, Jess is joined by Fr. Anthony Weick, a spiritual director at Grand Coteau retreat center, and Eve Doran, Program Director for the FOCUS Spiritual Development Team, to answer your top questions about spiritual direction. Together, they discuss:
- Whether lay people can serve as spiritual directors and what the Church says about it
- How to know if you need a spiritual director — and what to expect from the experience
- Practical tips for preparing, going deeper, and discerning when it might be time for a new director
Whether you’re new to direction or looking to make the most of your current relationship with a director, this conversation offers clarity, encouragement, and practical guidance.
Fr. Anthony Wieck is a Jesuit priest of the Central & Southern province. He is the sixth of nine children, and was raised on a farm in Oregon. Fr. Anthony began religious life 31 years ago, spending his first five years of formation in Rome, Italy. As a Jesuit, he taught in three high schools in the province. Recently he spent seven years as retreat master at the White House Retreat Center in St. Louis, coupled with spiritual direction and professorial duties at the diocesan seminary there. Now he offers great numbers of directed and preached retreats at the newly-refurbished facility in Grand Coteau, Louisiana.
Eve Doran grew up in Georgia. She is 1 of 5 children, right in the middle of 2 sets of twins. She now lives in New Braunfels, TX with her husband Stephen. This is her 6th year on staff with FOCUS. She spent 2 years on campus in Louisiana, 3 on campus in Texas, and is now the Program Director for the Spiritual Development Team.
Have you ever wished you could hit the “reset button” in your spiritual life?
In this episode, we explore the wisdom of Venerable Bruno Lanteri and his timeless maxim: Begin Again. Fr. Mark Yavarone, OMV, joins Jessica to unpack how this simple but profound counsel can transform the way we approach prayer, failure, and discouragement.
You’ll hear about:
- Who was Venerable Bruno Lanteri? The founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary and his vision for a hopeful spirituality.
- Why “Begin Again” still matters today—and why discouragement, not pride, might be our greatest temptation.
- Practical encouragement for missionaries and for you—how this maxim helps us face setbacks, discouragement, and daily challenges with renewed hope.
Fr. Mark Yavarone, OMV, is a priest of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary, a congregation founded by Venerable Bruno Lanteri to spread hope and mercy through preaching, confession, and spiritual direction. He has served extensively in spiritual formation and retreat ministry and has worked closely with FOCUS missionaries as a spiritual director and retreat master. He is a co-founder of the Ignatian Discernment Institute along with Fr. Timothy Gallagher, OMV. You can learn more about the Ignatian Discernment Institute here: Ignatian Discernment Institute.
What if the key to growing closer to Jesus is letting His mother into your heart?
In this episode, Sr. Gabriella, Vocations Director for the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church, helps us unpack what it means to know Mary not just as a figure of devotion, but as a real, living mother who wants to walk with us. Sr. Gabriella and Jess discuss:
- How Scripture invites us to personally receive Mary as our mother
- Common obstacles to Marian devotion—and how to overcome them
- Simple, meaningful ways to begin (or renew) a relationship with Mary today
Sr. Gabriella serves as the Vocations Director for the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church. She has been a professed religious for 21 years and is originally from Mexico.
Why does Jesus make such bold promises to those devoted to His Sacred Heart—like turning “tepid souls” into “fervent” ones?
In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Joe Laramie, SJ, director of the Sacred Heart Retreat Center in Sedalia and former director of the Apostleship of Prayer, to explore how this centuries-old devotion speaks directly to the heart of the missionary.
Whether you’re feeling spiritually dry, fervent, or somewhere in between, the Sacred Heart offers a deeply personal call to renewal.
Jess and Fr. Joe discuss:
- The promise of transformation: what Jesus offers to lukewarm or weary souls
- Why consecration and reparation are more than devotional extras—they're missionary fuel
- The power of the Sacred Heart in history, including the mysterious link between France and the French Revolution
Fr. Joe Laramie has been a member of the Society of Jesus for 25 years and ordained a priest for 10 years. Fr. Laramie has served as the director of the Apostleship of Prayer, a 200 year-old prayer ministry dedicated to the Sacred Heart, and now serves as the director of Sacred Heart Retreat Center in Sedalia, Colorado.
What if spiritual warfare is more strategic than we think—and the battlefield is closer than we realize?
In this episode, Jess sits down with Jesuit priest and Naval Chaplain Fr. Christopher Krall for a powerful conversation on spiritual warfare. Drawing from his experience as a naval chaplain and spiritual director, Fr. Krall offers insight into how we can recognize and resist the subtle tactics of the enemy—especially after moments of grace or spiritual growth.
In this episode, Fr. Krall and Jess discuss:
- How military life shaped Fr. Krall’s understanding of spiritual combat and the parallels between physical and spiritual warfare
- What St. Ignatius teaches about desolation, memory, and the enemy’s attempts to regain ground after a retreat
- Practical ways to "fortify" the soul’s weakest points and stay grounded when spiritual clarity begins to fade
Whether you're returning from a retreat, navigating temptation, or just looking to deepen your discernment, this episode offers encouragement and real tools for the spiritual battle.
Fr. Christopher Krall has been a member of the Society of Jesus for over 20 years, ordained a priest for 10 years, and current serves as a chaplain to the United States Navy.
What really happens when you're confirmed?
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens takes us into the heart of the Sacrament of Confirmation—far beyond the idea of a “graduation ceremony.”
We explore how this sacrament completes what began at Baptism, and how it becomes a personal Pentecost—a moment when the Holy Spirit is poured out for strength, mission, and spiritual battle. Chris walks us through the rich symbols of the rite, from the laying on of hands to the anointing with sacred chrism, and unpacks what they reveal about God’s action in our lives.
If you've already been confirmed but find yourself weary in the fight—facing temptation, discouragement, or fear—this conversation will remind you of the spiritual power you've been given and the call to live as a mature disciple.
Christopher Carstens directs the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin; coordinates the Institute for Liturgical Studies at Christendom College; and edits the Adoremus Bulletin. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship, and he is author of A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery (Sophia), as well as Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision (Hillenbrand Books). He and his family live in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.
In this deeply encouraging episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about one of the most misunderstood aspects of the spiritual life: how to view our faults through the lens of faith.
Drawing on decades of experience as a spiritual director and confessor, Fr. John shares wisdom that combats perfectionism and opens a new way of seeing failure — not as defeat, but as an invitation to deeper intimacy with God.
In this episode, Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- Why becoming more aware of your faults is actually a sign of progress in the spiritual life
- How to avoid perfectionism and scrupulosity while still striving for holiness
- Practical steps for turning your faults into fuel for growth
Whether you’re feeling discouraged by your imperfections or wondering how to make real progress in your interior life, this conversation will leave you with hope, clarity, and concrete tools for the journey.
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
This September, "Triumph of the Heart", a movie about St. Maximilian Kolbe, will hit theaters. In this episode, Fr. Gabriel Gillen joins Jess to review the film.
Fr. Gabriel and Jess discuss:
- Their overall impressions, including acting, pacing, and cinematography
- The director's approach to storytelling as a spiritual meditation
- The amount of violence in the film and whether it serves or distracts from the deeper message
Whether you're a fan of Catholic cinema or simply inspired by the life of St. Maximilian Kolbe, this episode offers a thoughtful take on a saint brought to life on screen.
Fr. Gabriel Gillen, O.P.- Dominican Friar in the Province of St. Joseph. He was ordained in the year 2000 in Subiaco, Italy. Fr. Gabriel resides at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C. along with Fr. Gregory Pine and the Hillbilly Thomists. In 2022, Fr. Gabriel became a National Chaplain for FOCUS.
What happens at the Rite of Consecration of a Virgin?
In this episode, host Jessica is joined by liturgical expert Chris Carstens and Elizabeth Black, a Consecrated Virgin, to explore the ancient rite of Consecrated Virginity.
Together, they unpack:
- What makes the vocation of a Consecrated Virgin distinct from religious life
- The beauty and symbolism of the Rite of Consecration, including the veil, ring, and prayer of consecration
- What it’s like to live out this vocation in daily life, rooted in both solitude and service to the Church
Whether you’ve never heard of this vocation or have attended a consecration yourself, this conversation will deepen your appreciation for one of the Church’s most hidden treasures.
Elizabeth Black has worked in Catholic liberal education for seventeen years, most recently as principal of Saint Stephen School in East Grand Rapids. As Dean of Faculty and Curriculum at Oakcrest School, she developed the school’s liberal arts educational vision. Elizabeth is trained in the Ward Method of Music Instruction, holds a B.A. in Classical and Early Christian Studies from Christendom College and a M.A. from the University of St. Mary of the Lake. Elizabeth is a consecrated virgin living in the world.
Christopher Carstens directs the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin; coordinates the Institute for Liturgical Studies at Christendom College; and edits the Adoremus Bulletin. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship, and he is author of A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery (Sophia), as well as Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision (Hillenbrand Books). He and his family live in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.
In this episode, Jess sits down with Cheryl Hansen, a Tribunal Advocate, to talk about what it looks like to walk closely with someone going through the painful and often confusing journey of divorce and annulment.
Jess and Cheryl discuss:
- How to support someone considering divorce while still encouraging hope for healing in their marriage.
- Why people often seek validation from faithful friends—and how to respond with both clarity and love.
- What words and attitudes are most helpful (and unhelpful) when someone is navigating the annulment process.
Cheryl Hansen serves as a Tribunal Advocate in the Diocese of Bismarck, North Dakota. She is also the President of the Michelle Duppong Guild.
The Church has declared this the Jubilee Year of Hope- but what does that mean for you?
In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to explore how this special year invites you to delve deeper in the virtue of hope and increase your trust in God.
Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- What makes hope different from mere optimism
- How to navigate desires, dreams, and unanswered prayers with trust in God's will
- Practical ways to grow in the virtue of hope in your everyday life
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
What will Pope Francis be remembered for?
In this episode, Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to reflect on the defining themes of Pope Francis' papacy- and what may come next. From his pastoral heart to his global vision, Dr. Sri and Jess explore the impact of a pope who led with compassion.
Dr. Sri and Jess discuss:
- Compassion at the Core- Dr. Sri shares how Pope Francis' papacy emphasized mercy, encounter, and a deep awareness of human suffering.
- Wounds and the Human Heart- Dr. Sri shares how the Holy Father's understanding of brokenness shaped his approach to evangelization and accompaniment.
- The Road Ahead- Dr. Sri responds to questions about ambiguity in Pope Francis' communication and offers insight into what Catholics can expect as the Church prepares for the next conclave.
Dr. Edward Sri is a theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS' Sr. Vice President of Apostolic Outreach. Dr. Sri has written several best-selling books and is also the presenter of several Ascension Press and Augustine Institute faith formation film series. He hosts the acclaimed podcast, "All Things Catholic" and is an adjunct professor at the Augustine Institute. He and his wife Beth reside in Littleton, Colorado. They are blessed with 8 children and one grandchild.
What was Jesus doing on Holy Saturday? While the world lay silent, Christ was at work- accomplishing in His Spirit what He had completed in the flesh.
In this episode, the hosts of the FAD & Dad podcast, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Joshua Burks, join Jessica to explore the hidden glory of Christ's descent into the realm of the dead and what it means for us today.
Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:
- What the Church means when it says Jesus "descended into Hell"
- The famous Holy Saturday reading from the Office of Readings- and what it reveals about Christ's mission to the dead
- How to pray and live the missionary spirit of Holy Saturday, even in silence
This episode also includes practical advice for entering into prayer on Holy Saturday, a day that invites us to trust that God is working- even when all seems still.
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys.
What if one of the most hauntingly beautiful liturgies of Holy Week is also one of the least known?
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens unpacks the rich tradition of Tenebrae, a service that blends candlelight, psalms, and silence to draw us deeply into the mystery of Christ’s Passion. Jess and Chris discuss:
- What Tenebrae is, where it comes from, and how it fits into the rhythm of Holy Week
- The meaning behind the extinguishing candles and the chanting of psalms
- Why Tenebrae is making a comeback—and how to prepare for your first experience of it
Christopher Carstens directs the Office for Sacred Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, Wisconsin; coordinates the Institute for Liturgical Studies at Christendom College; and edits the Adoremus Bulletin. He serves as a consultant to the USCCB’s Committee on Divine Worship, and he is author of A Devotional Journey into the Mass and A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery (Sophia), as well as Principles of Sacred Liturgy: Forming a Sacramental Vision (Hillenbrand Books). He and his family live in Soldiers Grove, Wisconsin.
You can check out Chris' book here: A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery
Doubt can feel like a lonely place, but the truth is- you're not alone. Even the most devout Catholic experience struggles with faith.
In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jess to talk about what it means to wrestle with doubt and how to navigate these difficult seasons with trust and perseverance.
In this episode, Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- How Lent is a time not just to “repent” but also to believe, as Jesus calls us to in His first public words—making faith an essential part of our Lenten journey
- Why even faithful Catholics sometimes struggle with their faith
- How to respond when doubt creeps in (without guilt or shame)
- Practical ways to grow in faith, even when belief feels hard
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
The Jubilee Year is a rare and powerful opportunity for spiritual renewal- but what does it really mean and how can we fully enter into it?
In this episode, theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS Vice President Dr. Edward Sri joins Jessica to talk about the Jubilee year. Dr. Sri and Jess discuss:
- What a Jubilee Year is and how Catholics can receive special indulgences and graces during the year
- The meaning of being a "Pilgrim of Hope" and the role of pilgrimage in this sacred time
- Practical ways for listeners to live out the Jubilee year
Dr. Edward Sri is a theologian, author, speaker, and FOCUS' Sr. Vice President of Apostolic Outreach. Dr. Sri has written several best-selling books and is also the presenter of several Ascension Press and Augustine Institute faith formation film series. He hosts the acclaimed podcast, "All Things Catholic" and is an adjunct professor at the Augustine Institute. He and his wife Beth reside in Littleton, Colorado. They are blessed with 8 children and one grandchild.
What if the key to deepening our faith isn't just surrender, but wrestling with God?
In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks return to talk about Jesus' Agony in the Garden. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:
- Parallels between Jesus' Agony in the Garden and the patriarch Jacob wrestling with God through the night
- How Jesus' prayer in the Agony in the Garden can inform our own prayer when we are suffering
- Spiritual advice for those who find themselves wrestling with God
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys.
In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks, the hosts of the FAD and Dad podcast, return to unveil theological elements in the Biblical accounts of the Last Supper.
Jess, Fr. Andrew, and Josh discuss:
- The 4 cups of a Passover meal and how we see them in the Last Supper
- Jesus washing the disciples feet and the tradition of the washing of the feet in the Holy Thursday Mass
- Jesus' deep desire for unity in His Church and His High Priestly Prayer
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their four rambunctious boys.
Ash Wednesday is upon us! In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carsten returns to shed light on the Ash Wednesday liturgy. Jess and Chris discuss:
- Why Ash Wednesday is one of the most highly attended Masses of the year
- How the Church teaches us about the end goal of Lent through the prayers of the Ash Wednesday Mass
- Why ashes?
- Chris' advice for listeners to enter more deeply into Lent this year
- Chris' book, "A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery"
You can check out Chris' book here: A Devotional Journey into the Easter Mystery
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
How can you have your best Lent ever?
In this episode, FOCUS national chaplain Fr. Doug Grandon joins Jessica to share his advice on how to make the most out of this Lent. Fr. Doug and Jess discuss:
- Making the most out of Lenten fasting
- The power of art and silence in enhancing your Lent
- How to avoid a spirit of self-reliance in your Lenten sacrifices
Fr. Doug Grandon is a priest of the Archdiocese of Denver and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
You can check out other episodes with Fr. Doug here:
Adventures of an Undercover Missionary in Communist Yugoslavia
A Married Catholic Priest?
Accompanying someone into the Church is a great privilege, but what does it actually look like to walk with them well?
In this episode, FOCUS staff and converts Travis Todd and Amber Cybulski join Jessica to talk about their experiences of conversion and how we can accompany someone entering the Church well. Travis, Amber, and Jess discuss:
- The most helpful things in OCIA and outside of it that prepared Travis and Amber to enter the Church
- Challenges that they had as they completed OCIA
- The experience of the Easter Vigil from the convert's perspective
- Advice for those accompanying someone entering the Church this Easter
Travis Todd is a convert to Catholicism and has worked for FOCUS for 18 years. Travis served 9 years as a campus missionary and team director before accepting a role at the FOCUS Denver Support Center. He currently serves as Senior Director of Formation. Travis resides in Arvada, Colorado, with his wife, Rebecca, and 7 children.
After converting to Catholicism in college, Amber worked as a middle school and high school teacher covering subjects such as Latin, Spanish, Salvation History, Logic, and Calculus. She left everything to join FOCUS in 2014, serving as a campus missionary and team director before joining the Formation Department in 2019. She's currently served as the Director of New Staff Training and resides in Toledo, OH with her husband, Steven, and 3, almost 4 children.
"Jesus, I surrender myself to You, take care of everything!"
This phrase is the daily prayer of the famous Surrender Novena. In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about the power of this novena. Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- How Jesus revealed the Surrender Novena to Servant of God Don Dolindo Ruotolo
- The difference between surrender and resignation or despair in the spiritual life
- How to be truly surrendered to the will of God
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
"You're doing what?" is a common response when students tell their parents that they want to become FOCUS missionaries. Parents can feel hesitant about this decision, as they wonder, "Will you make enough money fundraising to support yourself? Is this a good step for your career?"
In this episode, FOCUS Regional Director Kallin Hill and her father John Zehren join Jessica to talk about a parent's perspective on their son or daughter's call to FOCUS. Kallin, John, and Jess discuss:
- John speaks of his initial hesitation to Kallin's call to FOCUS, and how God's grace and conversations with Kallin overcame this hesitation.
- Kallin talks about how her time with FOCUS helped her to accomplish the personal and career goals her Dad had for her
- Kallin and John give advice on the best ways to approach parents and give them the news that you are called to become a FOCUS missionary.
After serving FOCUS for 4 years on campus, Kallin Hill became a Regional Director in the South Area overseeing schools in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. She has been with FOCUS for 8 years. Kallin is married to Stephen Hill, a fellow FOCUS employee.
John Zehren is a businessman, proud father, and adamant supporter of FOCUS.
One of the greatest griefs a person can experience is losing a loved one to suicide.
Studies indicate that 85% of people in the United States will personally know someone who has committed suicide during their lifetimes. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students. How can we pray through the pain of a loved one committing suicide?
In this episode, FOCUS staff Travis Todd and Levi Rash join Jessica to talk about surviving a loved one's suicide. Travis, Levi, and Jess discuss:
- Travis and Levi's own personal experiences of living through a family member's suicide
- Common struggles people experience after a loved one's suicide, including wondering if they could have done more to prevent it
- Church teaching regarding suicide
- What helped Travis and Levi to pray during the painful time after the suicide
- Travis and Levi's advice for those who are grieving a loved one's suicide
You can purchase Fr. Chris Alar's book, "After Suicide: There's Hope for Them and For You" here.
Travis ToddTravis Todd is a convert to Catholicism and has worked for FOCUS for 18 years. Travis served 9 years as a campus missionary and team director before accepting a role at the FOCUS Denver Support Center. He currently serves as Sr. Director of Formation. Travis resides in Arvada, Colorado, with his wife, Rebecca, and 7 children.
Check out other He Leadeth Me episodes featuring Travis here:
Conversion and the Drama of Family Relationships
Finding God in Daily Work: What's It Like to Work at the DSC?
Levi RashLevi Rash graduated from the University of Missouri - Kansas City and joined FOCUS in 2011. He served as a campus missionary, Team Director, and is currently a Senior Regional Director serving the West Area. This is his 14th year with FOCUS as a staff member. Levi has been married to Stef, a FOCUS alum, for over 8 years and they have 3 daughters. Levi's family resides in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Dominican friar Fr. James Brent is back to talk about his devotion to praying to the Holy Spirit under the title, "Spirit of Truth". Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- How praying to the Spirit of Truth led to the downfall of communism in Europe
- What invoking the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth could do for our country
- How you can grow in your devotion to the Holy Spirit as the Spirit of Truth
Be sure to check out Fr. James' new book, "The Father's House: Discovering Our Home in the Trinity" here and his podcast Contemplata here.
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
In reading the Scriptures, there can be some passages that trouble modern readers, like the accounts of the wars the Israelites undertook against people living in the Promised Land.
In this episode, Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks from the FAD & Dad podcast sit down with Jess to shed some light on these Scripture passes. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:
- Did God command genocide when he commanded the Israelites to wage war and put all the inhabitants of the cities to death?
- What about the account of Hagar's encounter with God? Did God command her to return to her abuser?
- What advice do you have for people who are reading these Scripture accounts?
- What did the Church Fathers say about these passages?
You can check out the FAD & DAD podcast here
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their three rambunctious boys.
In this episode, Jess sits down with Bonnie Engstrom. 14 years ago, Bonnie's life was turned upside down when she gave birth to a stillborn baby named James.
After 61 minutes without a heartbeat, doctors were going to proclaim her baby dead, but through the intercession of Servant of God Fulton Sheen, James' heart began to beat. The miracle was unanimously approved by doctors, theologians, and cardinals and was recognized by Pope Francis in 2019.
Don't miss this exciting interview!
Bonnie Engstrom is a writer, baker, speaker, and homemaker. Her newly published children's book - Fulton Sheen and the Very Bad Week - is the retelling of true stories from Archbishop Sheen's childhood and is beautifully illustrated by artist Mariam Khoury Briggs. She is the author of 61 Minutes to a Miracle: Fulton Sheen and a True Story of the Impossible, which tells the story of her son's Vatican-approved miracle for the beatification of Venerable Fulton Sheen. 61 Minutes to a Miracle has been translated into Polish, Italian, and Slovak. Bonnie is a regular contributor and co-author for Blessed Is She, a frequent radio and podcast guest, and an old school blogger. Bonnie lives with her husband and eight children in Illinois.
You can check out Bonnie's books here:
61 Minutes to a Miracle
Fulton Sheen and the Very Bad Week
In the culminating episode of our Advent retreat with the Carmelite mystics, Sr. Shawn Pauline returns to teach us about "The Romances," a poem by St. John of the Cross on the union of the soul with God. Jess and Sr. Shawn Pauline discuss:
- How John wrote "The Romances", a series of 9 poems that describe the love between the Father and the Son, during Advent while he was imprisoned by his fellow Carmelites
- John's illustration of the theological concept "perichoresis," which is the relationship between the Persons of the Trinity, often described as a dance
- How John's poems can offer insight for those who have struggles around Christmas time, especially those who come from difficult family situations
Sr. Shawn Pauline is a religious sister in the community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles.
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Sr. Shawn Pauline to discuss the 3rd and 4th waters of prayer according to St. Theresa of Avila. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:
- The images of the river and the rain that St. Theresa uses to describe these deeper stages of prayer
- How the soul must wait for God's action within it, and how this waiting ties into the season of Advent
Sr. Shawn Pauline is a religious sister in the community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles.
Here are Sr. Shawn Pauline's notes on the third and fourth waters of prayer:
3rd Water: Prayer of Inebriation
Teresa’s Image: The Stream or River
Characteristics of this prayer:
- The garden is now irrigated by the water flowing from a stream or river, with much less labor (16.1)
- Some labor is required to direct the flow of the water (16.1)
- The Lord himself practically becomes the gardener and is the one who does everything (16.1)
- The flowers of virtue in the soul are beginning to blossom and bring forth a fragrance (16.3)
- Sleep of the faculties: they neither fail entirely to function nor understand how they function (16.1)
Effects on the soul in this prayer:
- Only occupied with God- desires to only live in Him (16.4)
- Complete death to all earthy things and an enjoyment of God (16.1)
- Great strength of the soul; stronger virtue
- Deep humility and detachment
- Sometimes all the faculties are absorbed in God and sometimes restless
Work of the soul in this prayer:
- Abandon oneself completely in the hands of God (17.2)
- Pay no attention to the memory, suffer it with patience (17.7)
- The soul sees here that it did neither little no much other than consent to the Lord’s favors and embrace them with its will (17.3)
4th Water: The Prayer of Union
Teresa’s Image: The Rain
Characteristics of this prayer:
- Total suspension of the faculties (intellect, memory, will)
- Absolute certitude that God was present in the soul and the soul in God
Effects on the soul in this prayer:
- Absence of distractions, since the faculties are suspended
- Absence of fatigue (it’s raining- no effort for me!)
- An extraordinary experience of joy. The soul rejoices without understanding what it is rejoicing in (FULL of water)
- Obsessed with serving Him as much as it can (20.23), no longer speaks/does anything for itself (20.24)
- Spirit is completely detached from things (20.8)
- No longer fears dangers, rather desires them- as though they have assurance of their victory (20.22)
Work of the soul in this prayer:
- Humility- the foundation to the entire edifice
- Always keep the Sacred Humanity of Christ before us… we become more human as we grow in holiness
- Mortification- more refined, delicate, and careful in little things
In this episode of our Advent series, Sr. Shawn Pauline explains the second "Water of Prayer" according to St. Theresa of Avila. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:
- At this stage, God leads the soul into the prayer of recollection, which is the still awareness of God's presence within the soul
- How St. Theresa uses the images of an aqueduct to describe the prayer of recollection
- How a soul can open itself to receiving the gift of this prayer
Sr. Shawn Pauline is a religious sister in the community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles.
Here are Sr. Shawn Pauline's notes on the second water of prayer:
2nd Water: The Prayer of Quiet; Infused Recollection
Teresa’s Image: The Aqueduct (or garden hose)
Characteristics of this prayer:
· Begins to be recollected and realizes that it can in no way acquire this prayer through any efforts on its own (14.2)
· Here the water is higher and the labor is much less… the water is closer because grace is more clearly manifest to the soul (14.22)
· The faculties (memory and intellect) are gathered within so as to enjoy that satisfaction with greater delight, but they are not lost or asleep (14.2)
· Only the will is occupied and must consent itself to be captivated by Love Himself (14.2)
· The Lord is beginning to “take a walk” in the garden of the soul. The soul longs for the flowers of virtue that are beginning to bloom, to increase in fragrance so as to bring Him delight and glory. The soul knows this grace of “fragrance” comes from Him, through the weeding out of its vices, and begs Him to increase it (14.9)
Effects on the soul in this prayer:
· Satisfaction of peace is bestowed on the soul
· A little spark of the Lord’s true love enkindles the soul (15.4) … a pledge that he gives to show that he chooses it for great things if it will prepare itself to receive them (15.5)
· The soul begins to lose its cravings for earthly things- detachment from personal honors (14.5)
· God gives self-knowledge (true humility)
· A strong desire to advance in prayer, desire for humiliations
· A mature, trusting fear in God and a distrust of self (15.14)
Work of the soul in this prayer:
· Practice the life of virtue to be able to respond to the graces in prayer
· Remain in its joy and quietude
· Proceed gently and noiselessly- not running about with the intellect looking for many words (16.6)
In this episode of our Advent series, Sr. Shawn Pauline describes how God takes a beginner into deeper stages of prayer. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:
- How a soul transitioning into deeper prayer often experiences dryness, distraction, and an increased awareness of their own sin and weakness
- How to tell the difference between dryness, desolation, and depression
- The importance of perseverance, humility, and detachment
Sr. Shawn Pauline is a religious sister in the community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles.
Here are Sr. Shawn Pauline's notes on transitions in prayer:
1) Transitions in prayer/ Dark night of the Sense/GOD’s Work in the soul
a. St. John of the Cross-What God Does… Dark Night (overview of the DN of the Sense Chapter 12 &13)
- The soul is purged of its attachments
- It gains a deeper understanding of the vices that it has and gains greater humility and a greater desire for knowledge of God rather than self
b. Movements into a deeper life of prayer with less consolation, times of dryness and when prayer may seem to change and be difficult
c. Signs of the dark night of the sense common in the lives of most people who develop a solid and strong prayer life.
- Soul no longer able to pray with discursive meditation/ consolation as known prior to the time of prayer is gone.
- The soul is deeply committed to prayer and continues to stay so. One knows that one must be with God in this time of prayer regardless of feelings. One continues to serve God well.
c. Perseverance in prayer is needed. Teresa would tells us not to quit. / don’t be afraid of changes and ways that you can no longer meditate as you used to.
- Learn to be still and ready for something new…
- Let go of the desire for consolations and focus on the presence of God and learning to just be with Him.
- You are not wasting time/ resist the temptation and let go of not “doing” something.
- Listen/be still/ wait.
d. On those with the inability to reflect discursively, “dull imagination”: “…if one perseveres, one reaches contemplation more quickly along this way of inability to work discursively with the intellect…it is fitting for persons with this tendency to have greater purity of conscience than those who can work with the intellect.” Life 4:7-8
e. “And so I would never counsel anyone-if there were someone to whom I should have to give counsel-to fail out of fear to put a good inspiration into practice when it repeatedly arises. For if one proceeds with detachment for God alone, there is no reason to fear that the effort will turn out bad; for He has the power to accomplish all”. Life 4:2
Are you looking for ways you can enter more deeply into Advent? Look no further!
This Advent, Sr. Shawn Pauline from the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles will offer He Leadeth Me listeners a series of podcast episodes on the writings of St. Theresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross. In this episode, Sr. Shawn Pauline begins the retreat by talking about the beginning stages of the journey into deeper prayer. Sr. Shawn Pauline and Jess discuss:
- Theresa's description of the Prayer of Recollection and the image of the well and the bucket
- How can you tell the difference between consolations felt at this stage of prayer and the consolations experienced at deeper stages?
- What does God do in the soul at this stage and what should the person do to respond?
Sr. Shawn Pauline is a religious sister in the community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles.
Check out Sr. Shawn Pauline's notes for this episode!
Love’s Quest
On my bed at night, I sought Him Whom my soul loves- I sought Him but did not find him. So I will rise and go through the city…to seek Him Whom my heart loves (Song 3:1-3)
1st Water: Prayer of Recollection or Simplicity
Teresa’s Image: The Well and Bucket
Characteristics of this prayer:
- The beginner works while The Lord gives the increase (11.5)
- The beginner must cultivate their garden on very barren soil, full of abominable weeds (11.6)
- With the help of God we must strive like good gardeners to get these plants to grow (11.6)
- His Majesty wants determination, and He is a friend of courageous souls if they walk in humility without trusting in self (13.2)
Effects on the soul in this prayer:
- Greater detachment from outward things but mixed with many faults
- Increased desires for God
- Greater self-mastery
- Divine love begins to be enkindled
Work of the soul in this prayer:
- Perseverance, determination, courage
- Self-knowledge: the thought of one’s sins (“our daily bread”)
- Growing in the virtues of humility and detachment
- God’s assistance
- Meditate on the sacred life and Passion of Christ, hell, death, the power of God, the Love he bore us (13.13)
- Do not be distressed or afflicted over the dryness or noisy and distracting thoughts (11.17)
- Jesus is not concerned with our little inabilities (11.15)
- Occupy yourself in looking at Christ Who is looking at you
In this episode, Jessica's friend Theresa shares about the struggles of infertility and her own story of asking the intercession of Servant of God Michelle Duppong.
Jess and Theresa discuss:
- The common question when struggling with infertility: Should I ask for what I want in prayer or should I pray, "Not my will but yours be done"?
- Theresa's experience of having a baby after praying to Servant of God Michelle Duppong
- Theresa's advice for women struggling with infertility
You can find out more about Servant of God Michelle Duppong here: https://michelleduppongcause.org/
You can buy tickets to see the documentary, "Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story," here.
Theresa Callahan is a wife and mother who lives on the East Coast.
The SEEK conference is just around the corner, and this year's theme is, "Follow Me". In this episode, Mark Bartek joins Jessica to talk about how Servant of God Michelle Duppong answered Jesus' call to follow Him. Mark and Jess discuss:
- The theme of the conference, which comes from the Scripture verse John 8: 12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."
- Mark shares about his time as Michelle's supervisor and how he saw her follow Jesus during her time in FOCUS
- Jess and Mark discuss Michelle's suffering during her illness and Jesus' promise that His followers will not walk in darkness
- Jess and Mark talk about the upcoming documentary, "Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story", which Mark appeared in
"Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story" will be in theaters for one night only on November 12th, 2024. You can get tickets here: Fathom Events: Radiating Joy.
Mark Bartek is the Senior Director of FOCUS Mission Partner Development. He has been with FOCUS for 18 years, and he and his wife Angie have 8 children.
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed by our grief and can have difficulty expressing it in prayer. In this episode, counselor Kate Johnson joins Jessica to talk about praying in the midst of grief. Jess and Kate discuss:
- The modern tendency in the Christian community to focus on the resurrection and skip the necessary grieving process
- Why our culture has forgotten how to grieve
- Ancient Jewish practices to mourn the death of loved ones
- How grief can be a springboard for evangelization
Kate Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Colorado as well as Michigan. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Denver, in Biology Psychology and Chemistry. and went on to join FOCUS, for the next eight years as an on-campus missionary. During her time in FOCUS she also pursued a master’s degree from the Institute for the Psychological Sciences (now Divine Mercy University). After graduate school, she spent several years at Mount St. Mary’s University, as a counselor and adjunct seminary professor. She then came back to Colorado, and worked with St Raphael Counseling for several years. Kate currently lives in Centennial with her husband, Greg, and has a private practice, where she continues to see therapy clients. She also continues to work with FOCUS part-time, consulting on mental health issues.
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens returns to talk with Jessica about Catholic funerals. Chris and Jess discuss:
- The 3 ceremonies associated with a Catholic funeral: vigil, Mass of Christian Burial, and prayers at the graveside
- The connection between a funeral Mass and the Easter Vigil
- Key symbols and prayers in the Mass of Christian Burial
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
Servant of God Fr. Walter Ciszek spent 23 years in Siberian prison camps for his faith in Jesus. After being released from prison, he returned to the United States and became a renowned spiritual director.
In this episode, Fr. Michael Wegenka joins Jessica to dive into a prayer of surrender that Fr. Ciszek wrote for one of his directees. Fr. Michael and Jess discuss:
- Fr. Ciszek's spirituality of surrender and trust in God
- The line of the prayer, "I ask the grace to accept the sadness in my heart as your will for me in this present moment." Is God's will for me to be sad?
- Fr. Ciszek's teaching on finding God in the present moment
- How you can find healing in seeking God in the present moment
Here is the text of Fr. Ciszek's prayer:
Prayer of SurrenderLord Jesus Christ, I ask the grace to accept the sadness in my heart, as your will for me, in this moment. I offer it up, in union with your sufferings, for those who are in deepest need of your redeeming grace. I surrender myself to your Father's will and I ask you to help me to move on to the next task that you have set for me.
Spirit of Christ, help me to enter into a deeper union with you. Lead me away from dwelling on the hurt I feel:
to thoughts of charity for those who need my love,
to thoughts of compassion for those who need my care, and
to thoughts of giving to those who need my help.
As I give myself to you, help me to provide for the salvation of those who come to me in need.
May I find my healing in this giving.
May I always accept God's will.
May I find my true self by living for others in a spirit of sacrifice and suffering.
May I die more fully to myself and live more fully in you.
As I seek to surrender to the Father's will, may I come to trust that he will do everything for me.
To learn more about Fr. Ciszek, visit his League website here.
Fr. Michael Wegenka, S.J., is a Jesuit priest from Houston, Texas. He has worked at Regis Jesuit High School as well as his alma mater, Strake Jesuit in Houson. He was ordained in 2018 and is currently working as a vocation promoter for the UCS Province of Jesuits.
In Matthew 7:1, Jesus tell us, "Do not judge, lest you shall be judged". But what does this actually mean? Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress is back in this episode to talk about judgment. Fr. Joseph-Anthony and Jess discuss:
- Is it a judgment to notice a fault in another person?
- How can you know if you are making rash judgments?
- What advice do you have for someone who is trying to overcome the sin of judging other people?
Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress is the chaplain at the University of Virginia. He is an Eastern Province Dominican friar and co-host of the Godsplaining podcast with four other Dominican friars. You can listen to Godsplaining here
How do you know if you are gossiping or simply sharing your struggles with friends?
Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress joins Jessica today to shed light on St. Thomas Aquinas' teaching on gossip. Jessica and Fr. Joseph-Anthony discuss:
- Gossip's role in spiritual warfare
- How Aquinas breaks verbal sins or injuries into 5 categories: reviling, backbiting, tale-bearing, derision, and cursing
- Ways that you can overcome the sin of gossip in your life, including asking God to "set a guard over your lips" (Ps 141:3).
Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress is the chaplain at the University of Virginia. He is an Eastern Province Dominican friar and co-host of the Godsplaining podcast with four other Dominican friars. You can listen to Godsplaining here
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens returns to talk about the rite of baptism. Jess and Chris discuss:
- How baptism restores God's image in the soul
- Why the rite of baptism begins at the front of the church
- What is the role of Godparents?
- And much more!
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
When leading another person to Jesus, one of the most important tasks you have is teaching that person how to pray. But how can you do this?
FOCUS Alumna and former Senior Director of TD and RD Formation Shannon Hicks joins Jessica in this episode to talk about how to teach another person how to pray. Jess and Shannon discuss:
- How God Himself teaches each person to pray and we only accompany others while He teaches them
- The value of praying out loud with someone learning to pray
- Teaching ARRR Prayer- Acknowledge, Relate, Receive, Respond
Shannon Hicks is a wife, mother, spiritual director and a former FOCUS missionary. Shannon served in FOCUS for 15 years as a campus missionary, regional director, and a member of the formation team.
After a conversion or reversion to the Catholic faith, many people can struggle in their interactions with family members who don't share their beliefs.
In this episode, Director of Formation Travis Todd and Director of Retreats Niru de Silva join Jessica to talk about how their conversions impacted their family relationships and their prayer lives. Travis, Niru, and Jess discuss:
- Niru's background growing up with a Buddhist family and Travis' upbringing in a devout Protestant home
- Struggles in family interactions that are common after conversions, including
- The temptation to let intercession for your family monopolize your prayer life
- Pressuring yourself to be perfect so that you reflect well on the Catholic faith
- Scrupulosity about proclaiming truths of the faith to family members
- Advice for FOCUS staff and students who are navigating relationships with family members who don't share their faith
Travis Todd is a convert to Catholicism and has worked for FOCUS for 18 years. Travis served 9 years as a campus missionary and team director before accepting a role at the FOCUS Denver Support Center. He currently serves as Director of Formation. Travis resides in Arvada, Colorado, with his wife, Rebecca, and 7 children.
Niru de Silva is a convert to Catholicism and has worked for FOCUS for 7 years. He has served FOCUS as a campus missionary, Regional Director, and now as the Director of Retreats. Niru's team brings life-changing retreats to people at over 200 FOCUS locations. Niru resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife, Sarah, and their daughter.
Radiating Joy, a documentary about Servant of God Michelle Duppong, will be coming out in theaters on November 12th!
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Danny Anderson, the director of the film, to talk about creating the documentary. Jess and Danny discuss:
- Before making the film, Danny knew nothing about Michelle Duppong. He shares his experience getting to know her through the testimony of her family and friends.
- Danny's favorite interviews in the film, including the Duppong family and Michelle's primary cancer doctor
- Artistic choices Danny made in the creation of the film
Danny Anderson is the Director of the documentary, "Radiating Joy: The Michelle Duppong Story." He and his wife Molli own and operate Anderson Art, a production company based in Colorado Springs where they live with their two children. Danny is a CU Boulder alum and a former FOCUS missionary.
Over the summer, many FOCUS missionaries participate in the Spiritual Exercises. After 8 days of silence and meditation, what's it like to enter back into the chaos of daily life? How can you let the graces you received on retreat bear fruit? Fr. Kevin Dyer, SJ, joins Jessica in this episode to give his advice for your spiritual life after you attend a retreat. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- Advice for people leaving a retreat in consolation, desolation, or tranquility
- Common temptations after a retreat
- Advice for integrating the graces received
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. In 2023, Fr. Dyer accepted an additional role in FOCUS as Vice President of Collegiate Outreach. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
You want to stop comparing yourself to others...but how?
In this episode, Sr. Maria Goretti, Vocations Directress for the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles, join Jessica to talk about comparison. Sr. Maria Goretti and Jess discuss:
- The effects comparing yourself to others has on your relationship with Jesus
- How to stop comparing yourself to others
- The importance of having a sense of humor
Sr. Maria Goretti has been a member of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles since 2010. She became the community's Vocations Directress is 2019. You can learn more about her community here.
Have you ever seen a beautiful icon and wondered what the images in it symbolize?
In this episode, Sr. Jeana Visel, OSB, joins Jessica to dive into icons. Sr. Jeana and Jessica discuss:
- How an icon is different than a normal religious painting
- The process of creating an icon
- The meaning of different colors and symbols
Sr. Jeana Visel OSB is a Benedictine sister at Monastery Immaculate Conception in Ferdinand, IN. At Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology, she serves as Dean of School of Theology Programs and Adjunct Assistant Professor of Spirituality. She has an MA in Monastic Studies from St. John’s School of Theology-Seminary and a DMin in spirituality from Catholic University of America. She is the author of Icons in the Western Church: Toward a More Sacramental Encounter (Liturgical Press, 2016).
You can purchase Sr. Jeana's book here.
In this episode, John Petrovich joins Jessica to share his testimony of the power of intercessory prayer.
John was jogging one day and saw an ambulance outside of a house. He prayed one Hail Mary for the person in the ambulance. Listen to this episode and hear John recount the miracle that happened next!
John Petrovich is a husband, father, and faithful Catholic layman who lives on the East Coast.
Liturgical expert Chris Carstens is back to talk about the Solemnity of Corpus Christi! Jess and Chris discuss:
- The history of Corpus Christi
- Special elements of Corpus Christi, including Eucharistic Processions and the Sequence
- Chris' advice for how we can enter more deeply into the Solemnity this year
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
St. Augustine says that the Holy Spirit is the Love between the Father and the Son. But what does this actually mean?
Fr. Boniface Hicks joins Jessica today to talk about the Holy Spirit as love. Fr. Boniface and Jess discuss:
- St. Augustine's Trinitarian theology
- How the Holy Spirit is the love which unites each member of the Church
- How the Holy Spirit is the love in each individual believer
Fr. Boniface's Spiritual Direction Training Program includes a special track for FOCUS Alumni. If you are interested in learning more about the program, you can check out their website here
Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., has been a Benedictine monk at Saint Vincent Archabbey since 1998. He has been involved with We Are One Body radio station since 2010, and presently serves as program director. He is the author of "Through the Heart of St. Joseph", and co-author of "Spiritual Direction: A Guide for Sharing the Father's Love", and "Personal Prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father's Love." You can buy Fr. Boniface's books at the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology here:
Through the Heart of St. Joseph
Spiritual Direction: A Guide for Sharing the Father's Love
Personal Prayer: A Give for Receiving the Father's Love
In this episode, Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress joins Jessica to talk about the Holy Spirit's role as the Sanctifier. Fr. Joseph-Anthony and Jess discuss:
- How the Holy Spirit reproduces the image of Jesus within us
- How the Holy Spirit sanctifies our suffering
- Practical steps we can take to allow the Holy Spirit to possess us more fully
Fr. Joseph-Anthony references the book, "The Sanctifier" by Archbishop Martinez in this episode. You can buy the book here
Fr. Joseph-Anthony Kress is the chaplain at the University of Virginia. He is an Eastern Province Dominican friar and co-host of the Godsplaining podcast with four other Dominican friars. You can listen to Godsplaining here
Fr. James Brent is back! In this episode he and Jess dive into charismatic gifts. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- The difference between a natural talent and a charism
- Doesn't Lumen Gentium say we shouldn't seek extraordinary gifts?
- How can people grow in use of their gifts without focusing on them too much?
Be sure to check out Fr. James' new book, "The Father's House: Discovering Our Home in the Trinity" here and his podcast Contemplata here.
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
When we pray the Pentecost novena, we often ask the Holy Spirit to give us the sanctifying gifts. How do these gifts change our lives?
Fr. James Brent joins Jessica today to talk about the gifts of the Holy Spirit according to St. Thomas Aquinas. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- The difference between sanctifying gifts and charismatic gifts
- How sanctifying gifts transform your life
- How you can experience more of the sanctifying gifts
Be sure to check out Fr. James' new book, "The Father's House: Discovering Our Home in the Trinity" here and his podcast Contemplata here.
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
A mighty wind. Tongues of fire. Shouting the praises of God. When the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples in Acts Chapter 2, the disciples are so ecstatic that the people of Jerusalem think they are "filled with new wine." What exactly is going on in this passage?
Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Josh Burks, hosts of the FAD&DAD podcast, return to do a deep dive into Acts Chapter 2. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:
- Connections between Acts 2 and the tower of Babel
- The significance of the Jewish feast of Pentecost
- Similarities between the account of Pentecost and the giving of the law on Mt. Siani
- Connections between Acts 2 and the consecration of the Temple in 1 Kings
- And much more!
You can check out the FAD & DAD podcast here
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their three rambunctious boys.
In Acts 2:39, St. Peter preaches to the people that the promise of the Holy Spirit, "is for you!" Leading up to the solemnity of Pentecost, He Leadeth Me will be doing a series on the Holy Spirit.
The first guest in our series is Fr. James Brent, who shares on the Paraclete Promises:
- The promise of the indwelling
- The promise of memory and understanding
- The promise of witnessing
- The promise of convincing
- The promise of being led into all truth
Be sure to check out Fr. James' new book, "The Father's House: Discovering Our Home in the Trinity" here and his podcast Contemplata here.
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
Have you ever wondered if you are called to religious life? In his book, "And You Are Christ's", Fr. Thomas Dubay gives 4 signs that someone in called to religious life. In this episode, Fr. John Burns from Friends of the Bridegroom joins Jessica to talk about the 4 signs of a religious vocation.
Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- Dubay's 4 signs of a religious vocation
- Does a person receive a call to a religious vocation at a definitive moment? Or are some people created with the grace for a consecrated vocation already present in their souls?
- Fr. John's advice for young people discerning their vocations
You can check out Fr. Dubay's book, "And You Are Christ's" here
Fr. John Burns is a priest of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, WI. Ordained in 2010, he has served as an associate pastor, pastor, and adjunct professor of moral theology. In 2019, he completed a doctorate in moral theology at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. His doctoral research focuses on the theology of healing through forgiveness.
Fr. Burns has authored several books, including Lift Up Your Heart: A 10-Day Personal Retreat with St. Francis de Sales.
Father Burns works extensively in healing and renewal ministry with communities of women religious and with priests. He is founder of Friends of the Bridegroom, an apostolate dedicated to the renewal of the Church through the renewal of women's religious life.
In this episode, Jessica dives into St. Augustine's Letter to Proba on prayer with Fr. Andrew Dickinson and Joshua Burks, the hosts of the FAD & DAD podcast. Fr. Andrew, Josh, and Jess discuss:
- Proba asks St. Augustine what she should pray for. He gives her a surprising answer: pray for a happy life!
- What makes a life happy?
- St. Augustine's teaching on the role of desire in the spiritual life and in intercessory prayer
- St. Augustine's reflection on the Our Father
You can check out the FAD & DAD podcast here
Father Andrew Dickinson is a priest of the Diocese of Sioux Falls. Ordained in 2006 he has served in the diocese in various capacities, including 11 years as the director of the Pius XII Newman Center serving the campus of South Dakota State University where he had the privilege of working with FOCUS missionaries those 11 years. Father Andrew currently serves as the pastor of 4 parishes in the diocese aided by 2 priests and one deacon. He also serves his Bishop as a Vicar General. If he has a FOCUS claim to fame it is through his brother, who was in the original bible study led by Dr. Sri in the 1990s.
Joshua Burks is an Associate Teacher at The Emmaus Institute for Biblical Studies in Lincoln, NE. He teaches primarily on New Testament texts and themes, but enjoys any opportunity to bring clarity and conviction to engaging with Christ in the Scriptures. Previous to his time teaching, Joshua spent four years as a missionary and Team Director with FOCUS at South Dakota State University. Next to love of God is his love for his wife, Elizabeth, and their three rambunctious boys.
In the Spiritual Exercises, St. Ignatius of Loyola guides retreatants to have intimate prayer with the accounts of the Last Supper and Passion of Jesus.
In this episode, Fr. Paul Kallal joins Jessica to talk about how St. Ignatius' meditations can help us to pray with Christ's Passion during the Triduum.
Fr. Paul and Jessica discuss:
- The grace Ignatius encourages retreatants to ask for when praying with the Passion is sorrow and compassion because the Lord is going to His suffering for my sins
- What if you don't feel as much sorrow and compassion for Jesus as you wish you felt?
- Self-condemnation and other pitfalls people can fall into when they pray with the Passion
- Fr. Paul's advice for listeners as they enter into the Triduum
Fr. Paul Kallal is a priest in the Congregation of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary. Currently he serves as Vocation Director and resides in the house of formation in Boston Massachusetts. Fr. Paul entered the Oblates in 2013 as a Postulant, made first vows in August 2015, it was ordained to the Priesthood on August 15, 2020.
Fr Paul is passionate about Ignatian Spirituality and leading individuals through the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola. He loves a good workout and after Jesus in the Eucharist, coffee is the most important substance in life.
How do I know if my prayer is God speaking to me or just my imagination? Does God give words in prayer?
These are common questions people ask when they begin to engage in Ignatian prayer or learn about charismatic gifts and "words" from the Lord. Jessica and Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty discuss these questions and more! Jessica has been involved with the Charismatic Renewal Movement for 13 years and Fr. John Ignatius has led directees in imaginative prayer through the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola for over 30 years.
Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- Teaching from St. John of the Cross in how to respond to words from God in prayer
- How your human imagination cooperates with God in prayer
- Advice on how to listen to God more deeply
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
Sometimes spiritual warfare is subtle. Do you recognize it in your own life?
In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about 3 subtle forms of spiritual warfare. Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- Thinking that every difficult circumstance is spiritual warfare is actually a tactic of the enemy
- Temptation is the most common form of spiritual warfare
- An often unnoticed form of spiritual warfare is the temptation to do something good that draws us away from God's will
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest in the Archdiocese of Denver. He is a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
Is there someone you are struggling to forgive? In this episode, Jessica breaks down the forgiveness process. Here's what you'll discover:
- What forgiveness is and is not
- How to know if you've truly forgiven
- The 4 stages of forgiveness
- Advice on how to pray when there's someone you need to forgive
This episode is based on the book, "Forgiveness is a Choice" by Dr. Robert D. Enright. You can buy the book here.
Jessica Navin serves FOCUS as Sr. Manager of Spiritual Formation. She has been with FOCUS since 2011 and lives in Denver.
Scripture tells us, "God is close to the brokenhearted" (Ps 34:18). In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about praying when you have a broken heart.
Jess and Fr. John Ignatius discuss:
- How to relate your suffering to God without letting it consume your prayer life
- Fr. John's thoughts on the common question: What can I hope for? Should I hope that God will give me the relationship that I desire?
- What to do if you are angry at God for letting you go through a breakup
- Fr. John's recommendations on Scriptures to pray with
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
Life is busy, and this has a huge impact on the spiritual life. In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about how we can use our busyness to lead us to God.
Jess and Fr. John Ignatius discuss:
- How busyness impacts the spiritual life
- Why God sometimes asks us to give up good activities so that we can be less busy and bear more fruit in the activities that remain
- How we can use busyness to bring us to God rather than away from Him
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest with the Archdiocese of Denver. He is also a popular speaker at SEEK and a former FOCUS national chaplain.
If you would like to listen to Fr. Ezratty's talks at SEEK, you can find them here: seekreplay.com
Lent is approaching fast! Are you ready? In this episode, FOCUS Sr. Regional Director John Merkle joins Jessica to give advice on how to make this Lent as spiritually fruitful as possible.
Jess and John discuss:
- How to challenge yourself without becoming self-reliant
- John gives advice for fasting, silence, and experiencing deeper contrition
- Jess recommends going on dates for Lent and begging for prayers
John Merkle has been a missionary with FOCUS for 13 years, currently serving as Senior Regional Director for Europe and the East Area. He and his wife Meredith live in Florida with their four children who were born in Colorado, Ireland, Austria, and Florida.
In this episode, Kim Zember, founder of Overcome Ministries and Unforgotten Faces, joins Jessica to talk about same-sex attraction and the spiritual life. Jess and Kim discuss:
- Kim's personal journey with same-sex attraction
- The importance of viewing God as a loving Father
- How people with same-sex attraction can bring their desires and struggles to God in prayer
- How to approach the sacrament of confession
- How people can support their friends and family members with same-sex attraction
Kim Zember shares her personal testimony of a continued journey of surrendering her same-sex desires to Jesus in pursuit of the greater love she has found in Him. Through her personal testimony she helps give others insight into how to love those around them who identify within the LGBTQ community and also gives hope and direction to those who may have same-sex attraction or struggle with their identity. She loves sharing God the Father's heart with everyone and strives to be totally transparent, to help others know they are safe to do the same, not only with God but with one another.
When Kim is not at home in Atlanta, Georgia, she is most likely found serving and playing with her 500 + children at her 'home-away-from-home' in Ethiopia through her ministry Unforgotten Faces.
Kim has appeared on countless programs such as Pints with Aquinas, The Lila Rose Show, Conversations with Jackie & Bobby, Ascension Presents, Encounter Ministries, EWTN, TBN, CBN, Catholic Answers, 700 Club and much more.
You can buy Kim's book "Restless Heart" here
You can check out her websites here: Overcome Ministries and Unforgotten Faces
What was it like to be discipled by Servant of God Michelle Duppong?
In this episode, Sr. Gianna of the Resurrection Heinemann joins Jessica to share about her time in college when she was discipled by Michelle Duppong. Sr. Gianna and Jess discuss:
- As a student, Sr. Gianna was struck by Michelle's simplicity and her desire to win souls for Christ
- How Michelle was a spiritual mother to souls as a missionary and during her sickness
- How Michelle overcame discouragement in her missionary work and in her illness
- Sr. Gianna's reaction when she heard that the diocese opened the investigation into Michelle's Cause of Canonization
Sr. Gianna of the Resurrection Heinemann is a member of the Community of the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles. She has been a member of the community for 14 years. Before she joined religious life, she was a student at South Dakota State University, where she was involved with FOCUS and discipled by Servant of God Michelle Duppong.
You can learn more about the Carmelites of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles here
You can learn more about Servant of God Michelle Duppong here
In this episode, Joan Watson from Verso Ministries joins Jessica to talk about how a pilgrimage can renew your spiritual life. Joan and Jess discuss:
- How pilgrimages are a microcosm of the entire spiritual life
- Spiritual lessons you can learn on pilgrimage
- The traditional practice of making a pilgrimage once a year to the Church where you were baptized
Joan Watson is the Pilgrim Formation Manager at Verso Ministries. She is in charge of forming pilgrims intellectually and spiritually before and during their pilgrimages. Joan has worked for Catholic apostolates for 17 years, including the Nashville Dominicans, the Diocese of Nashville, and the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology. She is also a speaker and writer and hosts two podcasts: In Via, about pilgrimage, and Joan's Take on The Chosen.
You can check out Verso Ministries here.
In this episode for the SEEK podcast, Jess and Chad Etzel team up to talk about the single life. Jess and Chad discuss:
- Is the single life a vocation?
- Why single people can often struggle with feeling like their lives will begin once they are married
- Is praying for a spouse a prayer of faith that Jesus will keep His promise, "ask and you will receive," or am I trying to force my will on God through my prayer?
- How you can "be the light" in your single years
Chad Etzel has worked for FOCUS for 6 years and currently serves in Staff Care as a Talent Coach. He is a Certified Professional Coach from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching and hosts the "Catholic, Single, and Flourishing" podcast. You can listen to Chad's podcast here.
At the beginning of a new year, many people often reflect on their dreams for life and for the upcoming year. In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about life dreams and their role in the spiritual life.
Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- How our question should be: Does my dream align with what God desires for my life?
- St. Ignatius of Loyola's teaching on how God speaks to us through our desires
- How to know whether a dream comes from God or from your own human spirit
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a former FOCUS national chaplain and now the parochial vicar at St. Bernadette and St. Mary Magdalene parishes in Denver, Colorado.
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens joins Jessica to talk about how the Christmas liturgy demonstrates 3 fundamental truths for praying the Mass throughout the year. Jess and Chris discuss:
- The Word became flesh: how the Word of the Father features prominently at Mass
- "Mary reflected on these things in her heart"- The Greek word for reflecting means "put together". Chris explains how we are "put together" with God through the objects, words, and actions of each Mass.
- The Divine Exchange- The prayers at Christmas often mention the "divine exchange", where God become Man so that man might become God.
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
O Come, O Come Emmanuel. Creator of the Stars of Night. Alma Redemptoris Mater. All these classic hymns and more make up the liturgical sounds of Advent! In this episode, liturgical music expert Adam Bartlett joins Jessica to talk about how liturgical music can help us enter more deeply into the season of Advent.
Jess and Adam discuss:
- Why it is more appropriate to sing the Gospel at Mass than speak it
- How singing the Antiphons can help us anticipate the coming of Christ at Christmas
- Why different liturgical seasons have different sounds, and what we should listen for in the sounds of liturgical music during Advent
- How meditating on classic Advent hymns can deepen our experience of Advent
Adam Bartlett is the founder and CEO of Source & Summit, a liturgical publisher and digital platform that helps parishes elevate the liturgy. He is a composer, conductor, and teacher that has served as a parish and cathedral Music Director, seminary and graduate instructor, and as Sacred Music Collaborator with FOCUS.
You can check out Source & Summit here: Source & Summit and on Hallow here
In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about Advent as a season of preparation and hope. Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- How the end time readings during Advent remind us that our time on earth is a preparation for Heaven
- The 3 Comings of Christ: the coming of Christ at Christmas, the second coming at the end time, and the coming of Christ each day to us in the Eucharist
- How to grow in hope this Advent if you have prayer requests you are hoping for that have not been answered yet
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a former FOCUS national chaplain and now the parochial vicar at St. Bernadette and St. Mary Magdalene parishes in Denver, Colorado.
Why is almsgiving a traditional practice to prepare our hearts for Christmas? Senior Director of FOCUS Mission Partner Development Mark Bartek joins Jessica to talk about the spiritual power of almsgiving.
Jess and Mark discuss:
- The 4 reasons St. Thomas Aquinas gives for work: 1) we work to eat 2) to prevent idleness 3) to become a master of your work field 4) so that you may give alms
- How tithing and almsgiving cause the believer to grow in trust in God's Providence
- How almsgiving can be offered for reparation of sin and as a form of intercessory prayer
Mark Bartek is the Senior Director of FOCUS Mission Partner Development. He has been with FOCUS for 18 years, and he and his wife Angie have 8 children.
In this episode, Chad Etzel, host of the podcast "Catholic, Single, and Flourishing", joins Jessica to talk about how we can enter into the liturgical season of Advent. Chad and Jess discuss:
- The historical context of Advent's readings from the Book of Isaiah about proclaiming the "Good News" of the Messiah's birth
- Advent has traditionally been a penitential season. Is it still?
- Practical advice for how to prepare your heart for the coming of Jesus at Christmas
Chad Etzel has worked for FOCUS for 6 years and currently serves in Staff Care as a Talent Coach. He is a Certified Professional Coach from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching and hosts the "Catholic, Single, and Flourishing" podcast. You can listen to Chad's podcast here
In 1997, readers voted that the greatest book of the 20th Century was "Lord of the Rings" by J.R.R. Tolkien. In this episode, John Zimmer, FOCUS' Vice President of Apostolic Development, joins Jessica to talk about spiritual lessons we can learn from Lord of the Rings. This episode contains spoilers!
John and Jess discuss:
- Tolkien's emphasis on never losing hope, even in impossible circumstances
- The importance given to friendship throughout the Lord of the Rings trilogy and the necessity of friendship in the Christian life
- Why Tolkien didn't have Frodo choose to destroy the ring at the end of the novels and what this can teach us about how God uses our failures and weaknesses
John Zimmer serves FOCUS as Vice President of Apostolic Formation. Since joining FOCUS in 1999, he has served in a variety of roles –including serving as a campus missionary, directing the national campus apostolate, overseeing the training and formation of staff, and leading the effort to bring the mission of FOCUS into parishes and non-campus environments. John speaks and teaches throughout the country on leadership, evangelization, and apologetics, and lives in Colorado, with his wife, Barbara, and four of their seven children.
It can be easy to become anxious about the turmoil present in the Church and in the world. In this episode, Fr. James Brent breaks open St. Paul's Second Letter to Timothy to show the Biblical answer to turmoil in our times. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- Resentment against the mystical Body of Christ is never of the Holy Spirit
- How we must avoid listening to teachers who are filled with negativity towards the Church
- The importance of filling your mind with Scripture and living the Gospel without anxiety
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his soundcloud site here
Fr. James Brent joins us again to talk about Purgatory. November is the month dedicated to the Holy Souls, and Fr. James believes there is a crisis of faith in the truth of purgatory among the faithful today. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- The current lack of faith in purgatory today
- Why souls in purgatory need our help
- How we can help souls in purgatory
- How indulgences can help souls in purgatory, and why some indulgences have a number of days attached to them
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his Soundcloud site here: Fr. James Brent on Soundcloud
In this episode, Fr. Richard McNeillie joins Jessica to talk about "The Art of Loving," a series of conferences given by Chiara Lubich, foundress of the Focolare movement.
Fr. Richard and Jessica discuss 4 key principles from Chiara's teaching on how to love others the way God loves us, including:
- Love everyone- not just those who are similar to you
- Be the first to love
- Make yourself one with others
- See Jesus in others
Listen to this episode and learn how to fulfill Jesus' command to "love one another as I have loved you."
Fr. Richard McNeillie was ordained in 2015 and currently serves the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston as Director of Vocations.
In this episode, liturgical expert Chris Carstens joins Jessica to unpack the theology of the wedding Mass.
Jess and Chris discuss:
- The first thing a couple should remember when planning their wedding Mass is that it's not about them!
- Should the dad walk the bride down the aisle or should the couple walk down the aisle together?
- Why Catholics get married in a Church rather than on the beach
- Understanding vows and consent
- And much more!
Chris Carstens is the Director of Worship in the Diocese of La Crosse, a visiting faculty member of the Liturgical Institute at the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and the Editor of Adoremus Bulletin. Chris lives in Soldiers Grove, WI, with his wife and children.
In this second episode of our series on engagement, Angela Schnieders joins Jessica to talk about the theological symbolism and practicals of shopping for a wedding dress. Angela and Jess discuss:
- The symbolism of the wedding dress as clothing for liturgy
- Standards for modesty
- Practicals for wedding dress shopping
Angela Schnieders is a wife, mother, FOCUS alumna, and Certified Strategist with The Wholeness School, a human formation program for women. She is also an internationally recognized speaker and Co-Founder of New Eden Strategies. Angela resides with her husband and children in Montana. You can check out her website here: https://billandangela.com/
Angela Schnieders was also a guest on He Leadeth Me for an episode on the virtue of modesty. You can check out that episode here: Modesty Matters: Communicating Inner Grace and Dignity
In this first episode of our engagement series, John and Katelyn Bishop join Jessica to offer some spiritual advice for engaged couples.
John, Katelyn, and Jess discuss:
- How a dating couple can know when they are ready to get engaged
- What to do if one person in the couple is ready to get engaged and the other is uncertain
- How to have positive interactions with parish staff when planning for the wedding ceremony
- Advice for spiritual growth during engagement
John Bishop currently serves FOCUS as Director of Formation. He has been with FOCUS for 9 years, serving on the Missions Team and Formation Team. John holds a doctorate in Moral and Systemic Theology from the Catholic University of America. John recently founded a new ministry called Forge, an organization that fights for the family. Forge conducts research and offers education and discipleship. John serves as Forge's Executive Director.
Katelyn Bishop worked for FOCUS for 3 years and now serves as a spiritual director for FOCUS missionaries. Katelyn is the Executive Director of the Bishop household and is expecting their 3rd baby.
FOCUS Director of Formation Travis Todd joins Jessica today to talk about his discernment to transition from being a campus missionary to working at the FOCUS Headquarters (DSC). Travis and Jess discuss:
- How do you know when it's time to leave campus?
- Ways to experience divine intimacy and live mission in an office setting
- Advice for those transitioning from being a student or a campus missionary into the workforce
Travis Todd is a convert to Catholicism and has worked for FOCUS for 17 years. Travis served 9 years as a campus missionary and team director before accepting a role at the FOCUS Denver Support Center. He currently serves as Director of Formation. Travis resides in Arvada, Colorado, with his wife, Rebecca, and 7 children.
As part of our series on sanctifying daily work, Jess sits down with FOCUS alum and small business owner Joe Henkels to talk about the spiritual lessons God has taught him through entrepreneurship.
Joe and Jess discuss:
- How fundraising as a FOCUS missionary increased his trust in God's providence and prepared him to take the risk of starting a small business
- The 4 benefits of business activity according to Pope Pius XII
- The moral qualities necessary for an entrepreneur
- And much more!
Joe Henkels is a former FOCUS missionary and owner of Lady Blue Coffee, a retail and wholesale coffee company. You can check out Lady Blue's website here: Lady Blue Coffee
In this episode, Nathan Stanley, Senior Director of Talent and Leadership Development, joins Jessica to talk about sanctifying your daily work. Jess and Nathan discuss:
- How the early Christians evangelized through their work
- Why you should always have a plan for your workday
- How to overcome temptations from "the noonday devil"
- The contemporary debate about the 40 hour work week
Nathan Stanley serves FOCUS as Senior Director of Talent and Leadership Development. He resides in Denver with his wife, Lauren, and their three energetic children.
Want to revitalize your spiritual life? Try going on a mission trip! In this episode, Elizabeth Phillips and Ryan Noll, missionaries who serve FOCUS on the Missions team, join Jessica to talk about mission trips. Jess, Elizabeth, and Ryan discuss:
- How encountering Christ in the poor can transform your daily prayer
- How the adventure of a mission trip can be a catalyst for growth in virtue and trust in God
- Common objections to mission trips, including the question: Shouldn't I just send money?
Want to see where FOCUS is sending students and missionaries on mission trips to in this school year? Check out the Missions website here: FOCUS Missions
ELizabeth Philipps is an eighth- year missionary with FOCUS. She served 5 years on campus at Omaha- Nebraska, Wayne State College, and Franciscan University and is now starting her third year with FOCUS missions. She started serving on mission trips while in college at Franciscan University and had a transformative experience serving in New York her junior year. It was this trip that led her to discern a call to serve as a full time missionary after she graduated. Since joining staff with FOCUS, Elizabeth has served on 10 different trips. The most recent of these was a mission to Tanzania this past summer. Outside of her job with missions, Elizabeth enjoys baking, ice skating, reading the classics, and making Rosaries.
Ryan Noll is a tenth-year missionary with FOCUS, beginning his 3rd year on the missions team. Ryan fell in love with missions after his first trip to Nicaragua in 2015. Since then, he has been on 13 trips with FOCUS to various locations around the world. As a campus missionary, he served on the Digital Outreach team, at NYU, where he was a team director for 4 years, and he led the expansion effort at Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan. In his spare time, he’s been leaning into his artistic talents by getting involved in community theatre, where he’s recently been cast in productions of Disney’s Newsies, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella, and Shakespeare’s Love’s Labours Lost.
In this episode, Fr. James Brent shares about the mystic revelations of Blessed Conchita Cabrera Arias de Armida, one of the great mystics of the 20th century. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- Blessed Conchita's daily life as a wife and mother of 9 children
- Her writings, which exceed the volume of the writings of St. Thomas Aquinas
- Key themes in her revelations, including the mystical incarnation in individual believers and worldwide renewal of the priesthood
You can find the book that Fr. James referenced about Blessed Conchita here
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his Soundcloud site here: Fr. James Brent on Soundcloud
How does church architecture assist us in deepening and celebrating our faith? In this episode, architect Adam Hermanson joins Jessica to discuss church architecture. Adam and Jess discuss:
- The 5 hallmarks of Catholic church architecture: verticality, permanence, transcendence, iconography, and orientation
- The significance of the altar as a table of sacrifice
- The symbolism of the center isle as a microcosm of the Christian journey to Heaven
- Traditional ways for architecture to depict the nuptial mystery of the Mass
- How the interior of the church should be formative to the faithful and the exterior should be evangelical
- And much more!
Adam Hermanson is the founder of Integration Design Group, an architecture firm in Denver, Colorado, which focuses on churches and other ministries with an emphasis on the renewal of beauty in liturgical design. Adam has been an architect for 17 years. He resides in Denver with his wife, Nicole, and their 6 children.
In this episode, Formation Specialist Sarah de Silva joins Jessica to talk about Servant of God Takashi Nagai, a Japanese Catholic convert on his way to canonization. Sarah and Jess discuss:
- Takashi's Shinto upbringing and conversion to Catholicism
- His work as a doctor in radiology
- How he lived through the nuclear bomb being dropped on Nagasaki
- The last years of his life, when he preached forgiveness to the Japanese people
Sarah de Silva has served FOCUS for 5 years as a campus missionary, team director, and now Formation Specialist. She is married to Niru and they are expecting their first baby.
There's a lot of talk about healing in the Church today. Are we becoming too focused on healing? In this episode, Fr. James Brent, O.P., joins Jessica to talk about healing. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- The culture's naturalistic understanding of healing vs. an understanding of healing from a Catholic worldview
- Jesus' healing ministry in the Scriptures and His desire to heal today
- Why doesn't Jesus heal everyone?
- How Jesus uses healing and every aspect of our lives as a formation for Heaven
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his Soundcloud site:
https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
A new school year is beginning! In this episode, Fr. Kevin Dyer and Jess challenge listeners to make the phrase "Conquer Yourself" their motto for the year. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- One of the early biographers of St. Ignatius of Loyola stated that there was no phrase more commonly on the lips of St. Ignatius than "Conquer yourself!"
- God sometimes allows difficulties in our lives so that we have opportunities to conquer ourselves and grow in virtue.
- Practical ways to conquer yourself through the Examen prayer and other spiritual practices
To learn how to pray the Examen prayer, please listen to this episode from Season 1 of He Leadeth Me, The One Prayer You Shouldn't Neglect Praying: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-one-prayer-you-shouldnt-neglect-praying/id1634970581?i=1000570122175
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
In this episode, FOCUS East Area Director Marcus Schoch joins Jessica to do a deep dive into fasting, penance, and mortification. Marcus and Jess discuss:
- The difference between fasting, penance, reparation, and mortification
- How fasting helps us recognize our dependence on God
- 3 reasons to fast according to St. Thomas Aquinas
- How to know what types of fasting are too extreme or too lenient
- And much more!
Marcus Schoch is in his 13th year with FOCUS and currently serves as the East Area Director. Marcus oversees 170 FOCUS missionaries serving at 42 campuses from Maine down to Virginia. He and his wife Kelsie live with their 6 children near Augusta, Georgia.
How can penance heal your soul? Fr. James Brent joins Jessica to talk about St. Thomas Aquinas' teaching on penance. In this episode Fr. James explains:
- How penance is "medicine for the soul" and corrects the disorder of sin
- The effects of penance, which include: restoring right order in the soul, restoring order in relationships, eradicating bad inclinations, and conducing a person to receive a change of heart.
- How penance is a participation in the satisfaction that Jesus made on the Cross
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his Soundcloud site:
https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
FOCUS National Chaplain Fr. Gabriel Gillen joins Jessica to talk about suffering and the tremendous power it has when "offered up." Fr. Gabriel and Jess discuss:
- The most common questions people ask when they are suffering, such as, "Is my suffering my fault?" "Is God punishing me for my sin?" "If God is good, why isn't He putting an end to my suffering?"
- The most important question to ask when you are suffering: "What should I do with my suffering?"
- Fr. Gabriel tells the story of a young boy who was healed of a snakebite after receiving a blood transfusion from a man who had built up immunities to snakebites. He compares this to the healing power redemptive suffering can have for others when it is offered up.
- Fr. Gabriel gives advice on how to offer up your sufferings
Fr. Gabriel Gillen, O.P.- Dominican Friar in the Province of St. Joseph. He was ordained in the year 2000 in Subiaco, Italy. Fr. Gabriel resides at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C. along with Fr. Gregory Pine and the Hillbilly Thomists. In 2022, Fr. Gabriel became a National Chaplain for FOCUS.
In this episode, Fr. James Brent joins Jessica to explain St. Thomas Aquinas' teaching on grace. Fr. James explains:
- How grace enables us to participate in the very life of God
- St. Thomas Aquinas' teaching on the 3 things that happen when God dwells in a soul: he gives the soul illumination, divine help, and inclinations of the heart.
- 3 things we can do to grow in grace
- And much more!
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his soundcloud site:
https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
In this episode, Angela Schnieders, a FOCUS alumna and Certified Strategist with The Wholeness School, joins Jessica to talk about the virtue of modesty. Jess and Angela discuss:
- How modesty is a virtue for both women and men
- Key questions to ask when considering modesty in clothing, such as, "What does my clothing communicate about my dignity and worth?"
- What principles should I use when evaluating modesty in clothing?
Angela Schnieders is a wife, mother, FOCUS alumna, and Certified Strategist with The Wholeness School, a human formation program for women. She is also an internationally recognized speaker and Co-Founder of New Eden Strategies. Angela resides with her husband and children in Montana. You can check out her website here: https://billandangela.com/
In this episode, Hilary Draftz joins Jessica and Fr. Kevin to discuss the impact of movies on the spiritual life. Hilary, Jess, and Fr. Kevin discuss:
- The principles Hilary and Fr. Kevin use to decide if they should see a new movie
- The question: Should Christians watch horror films?
- Hilary and Fr. Kevin's top 4 recommendations for movies to watch with your disciples.
Hilary Draftz became a full-time FOCUS missionary in 2005 after earning a bachelor’s degree in Film Studies and English Literature from the University of Colorado in Boulder. Hilary is currently serving as director of the West Area, leading over 200 missionaries on more than 40 college campuses. Hilary and her husband Tim adopted five amazing kids in 2021.
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
In this last episode in our beauty series, Katie Weiss returns to talk about the power of beauty in evangelization efforts. Katie and Jess discuss:
- Why beauty is an effective tool for evangelization
- Katie points out, “we are what we reflect on” and encourages listeners to engage with beauty so that they can share it with others
- Katie gives advice on how people who are unartistic can begin to evangelize through beauty
Katie Weiss is the Founder of Behold Visio Divina, a ministry that seeks to teach people how to pray with art. Katie lives in Washington D.C. with her husband and is expecting their first baby.
If you would like to learn more about Behold Visio Divina, check out there website here: www.beholdvisiodivina.comor view their Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/behold.visiodivina/?hl=en
In the second episode of our beauty series, Katie Weiss returns to explain how to pray Visio Divina. Visio Divina is an ancient prayer method that incorporates art and Sacred Scripture into meditation. Katie explains:
- The steps of Visio Divina
- How to find good images to pray with during your holy hour
- How praying with images can heal the memory and imagination
If you are interested in praying with art during your personal prayer time, Katie recommends the following websites to find beautiful art:
Museums:
- The Met in NYC - https://www.metmuseum.org/
- Philadelphia Museum - https://philamuseum.org/
- The National Gallery of Art - https://www.nga.gov/
Modern Catholic Artists:
- Sofia Novelli- https://www.sofianovelli.com/en/sacred-art
- Dony McManus- https://donymacmanus.com/
- Kate Copato- https://www.visualgrace.org/
- Blair Barlow - https://www.blairbarlowart.com/
Classic Artists:
- Caravaggio
- James Tissot
- Fra Angelico
- Van Eyck
Katie Weiss is the Founder of Behold Visio Divina, a ministry that seeks to teach people how to pray with art. Katie lives in Washington D.C. with her husband and is expecting their first baby.
If you would like to learn more about Behold Visio Divina, check out there website here: www.beholdvisiodivina.comor view their Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/behold.visiodivina/?hl=en
In this first episode of our series on beauty, Katie Weiss, Founder of Behold Visio Divina joins Jessica to talk about why beauty is important for the spiritual life. Jess and Katie discuss:
- The 3 transcendentals: truth, goodness, and beauty
- Is beauty “in the eye of the beholder” or is beauty objective?
- St. Thomas Aquinas’ teaching on the 3 aspects of beauty: integrity, proportion, and clarity.
Katie Weiss is the Founder of Behold Visio Divina, a ministry that seeks to teach people how to pray with art. Katie lives in Washington D.C. with her husband and is expecting their first baby.
If you would like to learn more about Behold Visio Divina, check out their website here: www.beholdvisiodivina.com or view their Instagram page here: https://www.instagram.com/behold.visiodivina/?hl=en
If you would like to see artwork by some of the Catholic artists Katie mentioned, you can view their artwork at the links below:
Sofia Novelli- https://www.sofianovelli.com/en/sacred-art
Dony McManus- https://donymacmanus.com/
Kate Copato- https://www.visualgrace.org/
Blair Barlow - https://www.blairbarlowart.com/
How can God free you from addiction? In this episode, FOCUS missionaries Leah Nielson and James Hare join Jessica to talk about their work with the Freedom Project. Jess, Leah, and James discuss:
- What is the Freedom Project and how does it help missionaries receive freedom from addiction?
- Why do you prefer the term "addiction" as opposed to "habitual sin" for porn and alcohol addictions?
- How do addictions impact the spiritual life?
- What advice do you have for someone currently struggling with an addiction?
Leah Nielson serves FOCUS in the Freedom Project and on the Talent and Leadership Development Team. James Hare serves FOCUS full time in the Freedom Project helping men to grow in character and virtue.
Spiritual direction is a game-changer for growing in the spiritual life, yet it can be very challenging to find a director. Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., seeks to answer that problem by raising up new directors in his Spiritual Direction Training Program through the Institute of Ministry Formation. In this episode, Fr. Boniface and Jessica discuss:
- How do you know when someone is ready to be a spiritual director?
- What are the most important qualities a spiritual director should have?
- How do you train spiritual directors in your program?
Fr. Boniface's program includes a special track for FOCUS Alumni. If you are interested in learning more about the program, please see their website: https://imf.saintvincentseminary.edu/academics/degree-programs/
Fr. Boniface Hicks, O.S.B., has been a Benedictine monk at Saint Vincent Archabbey since 1998. He has been involved with We Are One Body radio station since 2010, and presently serves as program director. He is the author of "Through the Heart of St. Joseph", and co-author of "Spiritual Direction: A Guide for Sharing the Father's Love", and "Personal Prayer: A Guide for Receiving the Father's Love." You can buy Fr. Boniface's books at the St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology here: https://stpaulcenter.com/product/through-the-heart-of-st-joseph/
https://stpaulcenter.com/product/spiritual-direction-a-guide-for-sharing-the-fathers-love/
https://stpaulcenter.com/product/personal-prayer-a-guide-for-receiving-the-fathers-love/
The Bishops have sounded a call in the Church for Eucharistic revival!
Fr. Doug Grandon, FOCUS national chaplain and one of the Revival's 55 Eucharistic Preachers, joins Jessica to talk about the Revival and how you can be part of it. Jess and Fr. Doug discuss:
- Why the Bishops are calling for a Eucharistic Revival
- Fr. Doug's journey of coming to belief in the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharistic while he was an Episcopal clergyman
- The 3 years of Eucharistic Revival
- How you can be part of the Eucharistic Revival
To learn more about the Eucharistic Revival, visit the website here: https://www.eucharisticrevival.org/
To listen to Fr. Doug's amazing conversion story, check out our two podcast episodes:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/adventures-of-an-undercover-missionary-in/id1634970581?i=1000571147045
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-married-catholic-priest/id1634970581?i=1000574664781
Fr. Doug Grandon is a priest of the Archdiocese of Denver and a FOCUS National Chaplain. He is also one of 55 Eucharistic Preachers for the Eucharistic Revival.
A former slave is now on the road to becoming a saint! In this episode, Jessica is joined by David Uebbing, the Vice-Postulator for Julia Greeley's Cause for Canonization.
Julia Greeley was born into slavery around the year 1833 and freed during the American Civil War. She later converted to Catholicism and became known for her charity to the poor and love of the Sacred Heart.
David shares with Jess 3 spiritual lessons from Julia's life, including:
- Courage in the face of opposition
- Julia's recipe for relationships: Humility spiced with humor
- Letting your heart be conformed to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
David Uebbing is the Chancellor for the Archdiocese of Denver and the Vice-Postulator for Julia Greeley's Cause. Prior to working at the archdiocese, he was the Editor-in-Chief of Catholic News Agency and a FOCUS missionary at Montana State and Troy universities. Dave was born in South Bend, Indiana, and now calls Denver his home. He and his wife Jenny have seven children.
In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica to discuss the dangers of perfectionism in our spiritual lives and how to overcome it. Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- How Jesus' command, "Be you perfect" (Mt 5:48) is different than perfectionism
- Signs that someone is suffering from perfectionism vs. striving for excellence
- How we can overcome perfectionism
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
Christ is Risen! Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty joins Jessica in this episode to talk about 3 themes Christians should pray with during the 50-day Easter Season. Fr. John Ignatius suggests praying with:
- The resurrection narratives in Scripture and asking for the grace of spiritual joy
- Our own resurrection and the glories of Heaven
- How your own baptism has radically changed your life
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
The Easter Vigil is one of the most stunningly beautiful liturgies of the year. Fr. Daniel Cardo joins Jessica in this episode to dive deep into the symbols and various parts of this liturgy. Fr. Daniel and Jess discuss:
- The 3 symbols of the Easter Vigil liturgy: light, water, and sung alleluia's
- Fr. Daniel explains how the sung alleluia's are a "musical resurrection"
- Fr. Daniel breaks down the Collect and Offeratory prayers of the Vigil
Fr. Daniel Cardo is the pastor of Holy Name Parish in Denver and the Benedict XVI Chair for Liturgical Studies at St. John Vianney Seminary. He is a visiting professor at the Augustine Institute and the author of several books, including "The Cross and the Eucharist in Early Christianity: A Theological and Liturgical Investigation."
Holy Week has arrived! Fr. John Ezratty joins Jessica to talk about each day of the Triduum and how you can enter into the Church's prayer more deeply. Fr. John and Jess discuss:
- Monastic traditions related to Holy Thursday
- Why the Church strips the altars and covers statues
- How the Church intercedes for the world on Good Friday
- The silence of Holy Saturday
If you would like to read the "Ancient Homily on Holy Saturday" that Fr. John referenced in this episode, you can find it here: http://www.liturgies.net/Liturgies/Catholic/loh/lent/holysaturdayor.htm
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest in the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS national chaplain.
In Greek mythology, the hydra was a monster with 9 heads, and each time a warrior cut off one of its heads, two more grew in its place. In this episode, Fr. Kevin Dyer compares scrupulosity to the dreaded hydra. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- What is scrupulosity?
- Fr. Kevin comments on a few "case studies" in scrupulosity that Jess offers him
- Fr. Kevin suggests several ways that listeners can overcome scrupulosity in their own lives
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
How is your Lent going? Fr. Kevin Dyer joins Jessica in this episode to offer advice for your spiritual life during the middle of Lent.
Fr. Kevin talks about the spiritual state most people find themselves in when they reach mid-Lent, and he also gives the following advice:
- Begin to notice the freedom your Lenten penances are bringing you
- In your meditations, turn your attention toward Christ, just like in the 3rd week of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola
- Focus less on yourself and your sinfulness and more on what Jesus is doing
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
Would you like to get more out of spiritual direction? In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius and Jess discuss:
- Common reasons why directees don't get much out of spiritual direction
- Advice on how to go deeper in spiritual direction
- How to know if it's time to find a new director
- The common question: Should I pay for spiritual direction?
Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty is a priest in the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS national chaplain.
Any person who wants to grow in their spiritual life needs to practice frequent confession. In this episode, Fr. John Ezratty and Jess discuss:
- 8 reasons to receive confession frequently
- What if I don't feel as much sorrow as I wish I did for my sins?
- How to create an Examination of Conscience specific to you
Want to use the Examination of Conscience by St. Anthony Mary Claret that Jess referenced? You can find it here: https://catholicexchange.com/examination-conscience-venial-sins/
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
During Lent, the Church calls us to conversion. During this episode, Jess and Fr. John Ignatius discuss the dynamics of conversion. Fr. John Ignatius' points out:
- The word conversion means "to turn around", but it can also be translated as "to change one's mind."
- The call to conversion involves thinking in a new way, especially about our attachments.
- Self-denial during Lent is not about how difficult a penance we can undertake, but how surrendered to the will of God we can be.
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
What are you giving up for Lent? In this episode, Fr. Kevin and Jess will help you make a plan for Lent! Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- Undertaking the Church's 3 traditional Lenten practices: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving
- The idea of "giving something up" vs. adding additional practices
- Fasting from social media, music, and other mortifications
- Do Sundays "count"?
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
The Examen Prayer can be a helpful prayer tool as you discern God's will for your life. In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius Ezratty returns to talk about the Examen Prayer. He and Jess discuss:
- How many people miss graces God wants to give them in the Examen Prayer by only focusing on the sins they commit
- How people can unlock graces in the Examen Prayer by not only reviewing what they did throughout the day, but how God moved their hearts throughout the day
- Ways to discern God's will in specific situations after becoming more aware of consolations through the Examen Prayer
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
Can reading fiction benefit your spiritual life? Fr. Kevin and Jess think so! In this episode, Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- Why reading fiction can be good for the spiritual life
- Fr. Kevin's top 3 book recommendations for 2023
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
Thirst for Souls: The Michelle Duppong Story is a documentary created by FOCUS on the life of FOCUS alumna and Servant of God Michelle Duppong.
In this episode, Jessica sits down with FOCUS staff members Trevor Jin, the director of the documentary, and Stephany Anderson, who served as an interview assistant, about their experience creating the documentary.
Thirst for Souls: The Michelle Duppong Story is currently in the final stages of editing and is expected to be made available to the public in the fall of 2024.
To learn more about Servant of God Michelle Duppong, please see FOCUS' webpage about Michelle: https://www.focus.org/michelleduppong.
Trevor Jin serves FOCUS as a Formation Specialist and is responsible for FOCUS' formative media, including the YouTube page, blog, and e-newsletter The Torch. He is also the director of the documentary "Thirst for Souls: The Michelle Duppong Story."
Stephany Anderson serves FOCUS as Senior Alumni Missionary and is responsible for outreach to FOCUS alumni on a diocesan level.
In this episode, Fr. Daniel Cardo joins Jessica to talk about the connection between the liturgy and evangelization. Fr. Cardo and Jessica discuss:
- St. John Paul II's statement that if efforts to promote the liturgy and promote evangelization don't go hand in hand, both will falter
- How the power for evangelization comes from offering our difficulties and joys to the Father in the Sacrifice of the Mass
- Fr. Daniel's advice for people who know the beautiful theology of the Mass but their experience attending Mass falls short of what they hope
Fr. Daniel Cardo is the pastor of Holy Name Parish in Denver and the Benedict XVI Chair for Liturgical Studies at St. John Vianney Seminary. He is a visiting professor at the Augustine Institute and the author of several books, including "The Cross and the Eucharist in Early Christianity: A Theological and Liturgical Investigation."
In our last episode in the "Discerning God's Will" series, Fr. Kevin Dyer and Jess discuss the final stages of discernment. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- How do you know if your discernment is complete?
- The dangers of rushing a decision and delaying a decision and becoming a "perpetual discerner"
- What if I'm wrong in my discernment?
- The way signs can confirm God's will
- The importance of following through with the decision you have discerned
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
In this episode, Fr. Kevin Dyer is back to explain the 3 Modes of Discerning God's Will according to St. Ignatius of Loyola. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- The first mode of discernment, when God makes His will perfectly clear beyond all doubt
- The second mode, when God attracts a person's heart to His will by means of consolation and desolation
- The third mode, when a person uses his or her reasoning faculties to make a decision.
Fr. Kevin also shares
- The mode of discernment that he thinks is the rarest
- His advice to people who want to make a step away from their current situation but don't yet feel God's call to something else
- His advice on how to pray through the different modes of discernment
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
In this episode, Fr. Kevin Dyer joins Jessica to talk about the first steps in discerning God will. Fr. Kevin and Jess discuss:
- The importance of keeping the purpose of your life in mind as you begin to discern God's will for a specific choice
- How God speaks through consolation and desolation
- Mindsets that should be avoided in the discernment process
This episode is the first in a 3 part series on discerning God's will.
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at St. Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
In this episode, Jess sits down with FOCUS Senior National Chaplain Fr. Kevin Dyer to talk about Ignatian retreats and their power to transform a person's spiritual life. Jess and Fr. Kevin discuss:
- What is an Ignatian retreat and how is it different than other retreats?
- Why St. Ignatius of Loyola named his retreat the Spiritual Exercises
- The role of silence on Ignatian retreats
- How to prepare before making an Ignatian retreat
Fr. Kevin Dyer, S.J., is a priest in the Society of Jesus and serves FOCUS as Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer completed studies at Saint Louis University and Boston College and was ordained in 2010. In 2019, he became a part-time FOCUS National Chaplain, and in 2022 he stepped into the role of Senior National Chaplain. Fr. Dyer resides in Denver, Colorado.
St. Jose Maria Escriva once said, "The rosary is a powerful weapon. Use it with confidence and you will be amazed at the results." In this episode, Jess and Fr. James Brent talk about the power of the holy rosary as a weapon in spiritual warfare.
Fr. James recommends praying the rosary for anyone who believes they are experiencing spiritual warfare. He also recommends the practice of praying all the mysteries of the rosary daily. You can find a YouTube video about this practice here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dfyk53nrDzc&t=509s
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent's homilies on his soundcloud site at: https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
In this episode, Jess sits down with Fr. Mark McCormick to hear his riveting testimony.
Fr. Mark started out as a devout young priest, but after years in ministry he gradually stopped praying and reached a low point in his relationship with the Lord. Listen to the inspiring story of how the Blessed Mother intervened in Fr. Mark's life to renew his relationship with Jesus and save his priesthood!
Fr. Mark McCormick serves the Diocese of Rapid City, South Dakota, as Director of Vocations and Chaplain at the Newman Center of South Dakota School of Mines and Technology and St. Thomas More Middle and High School. Fr. Mark participates in several prayer groups, fostering to live a life of generous hospitality, a lively faith and a dedicated discipleship, modeling the "yes" of the Blessed Mother Mary and seeking to respond to the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Each year on June 13th and December 12th, FOCUS renews its Consecration to Mary. In this episode, Jessica sits down with Curtis Martin, Founder and CEO of FOCUS, to talk about the transforming power of Marian Consecration.
Jessica and Curtis discuss:
- The history of the Marian Consecration in FOCUS
- Why FOCUS renews its consecration on the feast of Our Lady of Fatima on June 13th and the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12th
- The life-changing power of making a Marian Consecration
Curtis is the Founder and CEO of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students. He is the author of the best-selling book "Made for More" and co-author of "The Real Story: Understanding the Big Picture of the Bible" with Dr. Edward Sri. Curtis and his wife, Michaelann, were awarded the Benemerenti Medal by Pope St. John Paul II for their outstanding service to the Church. Curtis and Michaelann live in Colorado. They are blessed with nine children and six grandchildren.
How can we be better disposed to receive Holy Communion?
Fr. James Brent returns to talk about the dispositions we need to have to receive Holy Communion more fruitfully. These dispositions include:
- Being free from grave sin
- Fasting before receiving Holy Communion
- Faith
- Humility
- Confidence
- Love and desire
Fr. James also gives advice for those who receive Holy Communion frequently and struggle with the Sacrament feeling routine.
Fr. James Brent, O.P. is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies in Washington D.C. and a popular retreat master and preacher. You can listen to Fr. Brent's homilies on his soundcloud site: https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
What does Christ do in your soul when you receive Holy Communion?
In this episode, Fr. James Brent explains the powerful effects of Holy Communion by walking line by line through St. Basil the Great's Prayer After Receiving Holy Communion. Fr. James notes that the effects of Holy Communion include:
- Healing
- Purification
- Enlightenment
- Protection
- Sanctification
- Expulsion of evil
- And more!
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent’s homilies at his soundcloud site:
https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
In this episode, Fr. James Brent joins Jessica to talk about the Sacrifice of the Mass. Jess and Fr. James discuss:
- How Christ has entered into the Eternal Sanctuary of Heaven and offers Himself to the Father by showing the Father His glorified wounds
- Fr. James explains that the essence of sacrifice is to say, "I'm Yours."
- Fr. James encourages lay people "play their PART" in the Sacrifice of the Mass by offering God:
- Petition
- Adoration
- Reparation
- Thanksgiving
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher.
You can listen to Fr. Brent's homilies at his soundcloud site: https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
In this episode, Fr. Matt Book joins Jessica to take a walk through the Mass and explain its different rites and prayers. Fr. Matt and Jess discuss
- The introductory rites, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, and concluding rites of the Mass
- How the different rites of the Mass mirror the purgative, illuminative, and unitive stages of the interior life
- The beauty of the structure of Mass
Fr. Matt Book is the pastor of Light of the World Parish in Littleton, Colorado. In 2017, he completed a license in Sacred Theology with a focus on the sacraments at the Liturgical Institute of Mundelein Seminary in Chicago. Fr. Book is a founding member of the Companions of Christ, an archdiocesan association dedicated to promoting the fraternal life and mission of diocesan priests. Fr. Book has taught part-time at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary since 2017.
With the parable of the Persistent Widow (Luke 18:1-8), Jesus encourages us to be persistent in prayer. Yet, there can be times when we wonder, “Should I continue to ask for what I want, or should I pray ‘not my will be Yours be done’?'” In this episode, we will discuss
- Why God wants us to be persistent in prayer
- How the Father answered Jesus’ prayer in the Agony of the Garden
- How we should pray with faith
Jessica Navin is a FOCUS missionary serving on the Formation Team as Manager of Spiritual Formation. She is in her 11th year with FOCUS and resides in Denver, Colorado.
The Gospel of St. John teaches us that Jesus gave us "power to become children of God." The churches teaches us that we are God's beloved children, yet sometimes it can be difficult to take this teaching from head to heart.
Fr. James Brent, O.P., joins Jessica to talk about divine adoption and how we can learn to live out of this grace. Fr. James and Jess discuss:
- The early Church Fathers teaching on Divine Filiation, and their metaphor of an orphan being adopted by a king
- Why the faithful can struggle with believing that they are loved by God, and how internalizing this truth transforms someone's spiritual life
- Fr. James offers advice for how listeners can claim their divine adoption and live out of it
Fr. James Brent, O.P., is a priest in the St. Joseph Province Dominican Friars. He is a professor at the Dominican House of Studies and a popular retreat master and preacher. You can listen to Fr. Brent's homilies at his soundcloud site: https://soundcloud.com/james-dominic-brent-o-p
How can I grow in my spiritual life and become a saint? Fr. John Ignatius gives us one of his top recommendations: get a spiritual director.
In this episode, Fr. John Ignatius and Jessica discuss:
- How a spiritual director can help you overcome your spiritual blind spots
- How a spiritual director can help you discern God's will for your life
- The difference between spiritual direction and counseling
- Fr. John Ignatius' answer to the question, "Does everyone need a spiritual director?"
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest of the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain.
In this episode, Dr. Joseph Hollcraft returns to talk about roadblocks to vocational discernment and how God overcomes them. Dr. Hollcraft and Jess discuss:
- Can broken family backgrounds be a roadblock in vocational discernment?
- What is the role of healing in the discernment process?
- How does someone know if they are ready to discern or if they should pursue more healing?
- What advice do you have for someone who is experiencing "vocational stagnation"?
Dr. Joseph Hollcraft is the Director of the Avila Institute's High Calling Program, an online program which offers men discerning the priesthood spiritual, intellectual, and human formation to assist them as they discern God's will. Dr. Hollcraft is also the author of the book "Unleashing the Power of Intercessory Prayer."
To learn more about the High Calling Program, please visit their website: https://avila-institute.org/high-call/
How do I know if I am in the Dark Night of the Soul or if I just have dryness if prayer?
The Dark Night is a metaphor used by St. John of the Cross to express ways that God purifies a soul and brings it deeper into union with Him. In this episode, Fr. Pier Giorgio, OCD, returns to talk with Jessica about the writings of St. John of the Cross related to the Dark Night. Jess and Fr. Pier Giorgio discuss:
- What is the Dark Night of the Soul?
- What is the Dark Night of the Senses?
- What are signs that a person might be experiencing the Dark Night?
- How can a person tell the difference between the Dark Night vs. dryness in prayer vs. depression?
Fr. Pier Giorgio Pacelli, OCD, is a Discalced Carmelite Friar and the Managing Editor of the Institute of Carmelite Studies Publications. He currently studies Language, Literature, and Translation at UW-Milwaukee.
How can I go deeper in prayer?
In this episode, Fr. Pier Giorgio Pacelli, OCD, joins Jessica to talk about the 4 Waters of Prayer that St. Theresa of Avila writes about in her autobiography. Jess and Fr. Pier Giorgio discuss:
- St. Theresa's analogy of watering a garden and the 4 "waters" of prayer she describes
- How God moves a soul from active to more passive prayer
- The prayer of recollection
- How a soul can cooperate with God to receive contemplative prayer
F. Pier Giorgio Pacelli, OCD, is a Discalced Carmelite Friar and the Managing Editor of the Institute of Carmelite Studies Publications. He currently studies Language, Literature, and Translation at UW-Milwaukee.
What makes a person a saint?
Msgr. James Shea, President of the University of Mary, joins Jessica to talk about FOCUS alumna Michelle Duppong, who passed away from cancer in 2015. The Diocese of Bismarck recently opened an investigation into Michelle's life of holiness, which could eventually lead to her canonization. Jessica and Msgr. Shea discuss:
- What does it mean that the diocese has opened an investigation into Michelle's life of holiness?
- When a diocese begins the investigation process to declare someone a saint, what are they looking for? What does it mean to be a saint?
- Why could Michelle Duppong be a saint?
To read more about Michelle Duppong, please see this article: https://www.ncregister.com/cna/focus-missionary-on-the-road-to-sainthood-bismarck-diocese-opens-inquiry-for-michelle-duppong
Msgr. James Shea is the President of the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota. He is also a member of the FOCUS Board and a Knight Commander of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Dr. Joseph Hollcraft, Director of the Avila Institute's Higher Calling Program, to ask him questions about vocational discernment.
Questions include:
- How do you know if God is calling you or if it's just your own mind?
- What tips do you have for how to pray about your vocation?
- Can I discern the priesthood and marriage at the same time?
The Higher Calling Program is an online program which offers men discerning the priesthood spiritual, intellectual, and human formation to assist them as they discern God's will. To learn more about the program, see their website: https://avila-institute.org/high-calling/
Everyone experiences discouragement, but do you use your discouragement for the purpose God has allowed it for?
In this episode, Jessica sits down with Fr. Martin Latiff to discuss why God allows us to go through discouragement and how we can use it to catapult us forward in our spiritual lives.
Fr. Martin Latiff is a priest with the Miles Christi religious order and a FOCUS National Chaplain. He is a popular retreat master and spiritual director.
St. Ignatius of Loyola said that there was one prayer a person should never neglect praying: the Examen Prayer.
In this episode, Jessica and Fr. John Ignatius will discuss:
- How do I pray the Examen prayer?
- Why did St. Ignatius think the Examen prayer was so important?
- What are some common pitfalls in praying the Examen prayer?
- How can I pray the Examen prayer well?
In this pilot episode of He Leadeth Me, Jessica and Fr. John Ignatius discuss Fr. John Ignatius' 5 recommendations for the new school year. His recommendations include:
- Consistency with our Plan of Life
- Practice of the Presence of God
- Praying the Examen Prayer
- Cultivating Virtue
- Spiritual Direction
Fr. John Ignatius is a priest in the Miles Christi religious order and also a FOCUS National Chaplain.
Jessica Navin serves FOCUS as Manager of Spiritual Formation.